Looking for the best things to see in Arizona? From the rugged rims of the Grand Canyon to quirky Western towns, don’t miss our Copper State must-sees!
Ah, Arizona: the sun, the cactus, the colorful red-rock canyons…what’s not to love? We may be biased, but we think it’s safe to say that Arizona is easily one of America’s most stunning states. Plus, with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and incredible history, there’s so many things to see and do!
There’s just one problem: where do you start?
Whether you’re planning a road trip, a weekend getaway, or a relaxing Saturday afternoon, we’ve rounded up our 15 must-sees in Arizona. From boating across Lake Powell to hiking through Antelope Canyon, your Arizona adventure starts here!
1. Grand Canyon National Park
If there’s one sight you cannot miss in Arizona, it’s the Grand Canyon! With its immense size, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant colors, there’s nothing quite like this geologic wonder.
Plus, there’s so many incredible things to see and do within the national park. Adrenaline junkies can take to the skies and soar over the canyon in a helicopter while nature lovers hike along its majestic rim.
No matter how you explore the canyon, don’t forget to bring your camera!
2. Antelope Canyon
For an entirely different canyon experience, don’t miss the spell-binding sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon. Chiseled out by millions of years’ worth of flood erosion, Antelope Canyon is a perfectly sculpted slot canyon. You’ll feel like you’re walking on a different planet as you wind through its narrow passages. This is one Arizona sight you have to see to believe!
3. Horseshoe Bend
Picture this: you’re standing on the edge of a canyon overlooking the stunning Colorado River. Watch as the river’s dark waters meander between immense canyon walls, creating a unique horseshoe shape.
Instantly recognizable, Horseshoe Bend is one of the most photographed landscapes in Arizona AND America! Plus, the short hike and well-maintained viewing area make it perfect for families and anyone looking for a leisurely walk.
4. Monument Valley
Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl and giddy up to Monument Valley!
This legendary landscape looks like it was plucked straight out of classic Western film: towering sandstone buttes rise dramatically from the earth, standing proudly against the blue desert sky.
It’s a fabulous place to enjoy a scenic drive, hike to the iconic Mitten Butte, or go on a scenic horseback ride, of course!
5. Sedona
Breathe in…and breathe out. Feeling relaxed? Good! Hold on to that feeling because Sedona is famous for meditation, relaxation, and is home to some of the world’s most powerful vortexes.
Plus, with a backdrop of out-of-this-world rock formations, it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature. What are you waiting for? Grab your yoga mats and head out into Sedona’s vast deserts today!
Not much of a yogi? Explore Sedona’s breathtaking wilderness from the seat of a helicopter!
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6. Phoenix
Phoenix is your go-to place for iconic attractions, Southwest culture, and mesmerizing urban jungles.
What’s our favorite way to explore the city? From the basket of a hot air balloon, of course! Imagine watching a gorgeous desert sunrise while floating over the golden-hued landscape. Sign us up!
As you can imagine, Phoenix can get quite hot (especially in the summer.) If you’re looking for a unique way to cool off, you absolutely cannot miss this Mermaid Swimming Experience!
7. Lake Powell
Located within the deserts of northern Arizona and southern Utah, Lake Powell is a water lover’s paradise! From boating to kayaking, wakeboarding to jet skiing, you’ll play in the water amidst the stunning backdrop of towering red cliffs.
For all the photographers out there, don’t miss these one-of-a-kind photo boat tours! You’ll float to the lake’s most picturesque spots including Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam, and Wahweap Bay. Your friendly captain will also be there to snap photos of you and your group. Say cheese!
8. Saguaro National Park
Ever wonder what the nation's largest cacti look like? Find out at Saguaro National Park! This unique park is conveniently located just 13 miles away from Tucson and offers a variety of desert trails, camping, and outdoor adventures.
If you’re looking to do something truly special, don’t miss the Signal Hill Petroglyph Site. Discover over 200 prehistoric Native American petroglyphs while enjoying a scenic walk through the desert.
After your journey through the park, enjoy a relaxing evening in Downtown Tucson!
9. Chapel of the Holy Cross
Trust us, when it comes to things to see in Arizona, the majestic Chapel of the Holy Cross should not be missed!
This remarkable Catholic chapel is built into the red rock buttes of Sedona, Arizona. To fully experience this architectural wonder, we highly recommend visiting at sunset – or you can fly past it in a zippy helicopter!
No matter what, you won’t want to leave your camera behind for this one.
10. Montezuma Castle National Monument
Who needs a time machine when you can visit Montezuma Castle? This incredible cliff dwelling was once home to The Sinagua. This group of Native Americans built and lived within Montezuma Castle around 1050 CE.
Today, this 20-room, apartment-style home still stands within a towering limestone cliff. Imagine what life was like during those ancient times as you explore one of the best-preserved cave dwellings in all of North America!
11. Willow Beach and the Emerald Cave
Attention adventure lovers, this one’s for you! Nestled within Arizona’s majestic Black Canyon, the Emerald Cave is easily one of the state’s most enchanting places. The best part? You can kayak inside it!
On this one-of-a-kind adventure, you’ll paddle down 4 miles of the Colorado River, passing through spectacular landscapes as you go. If you’re lucky, you may spot a big-horned sheep or even a bald eagle!
You’ll feel like you’re exploring another world as you slip inside the cave. Get your camera ready – you won’t believe your eyes as you paddle across the cave’s vibrant and eye-popping emerald waters!
12. Tombstone
Get a taste for the Wild West in Tombstone, Arizona!
Also known as the “Town too Tough to Die,” Tombstone is a must-see for anyone looking to catch a glimpse of life in the late 1800s. Complete with costumed characters, you’ll be treated to an authentic Old West experience. Meet cowboys, visit a saloon, or watch a thrilling gunfight reenactment.
With a name like Tombstone, it’s no surprise that the town is also said to be haunted. If you’re a fan of the supernatural, then these spine-chilling ghost tours should be at the top of your list!
13. Verde Valley
Vast desert landscapes, lush vineyards, fascinating history…you name it, the Verde Valley’s got it! This incredible valley is located in central Arizona and is dotted with small Western towns just waiting to be explored. Places like Cottonwood, Jerome, and Clarkdale offer a charming atmosphere, with historic buildings, art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Plus, the nearby Verde River is the perfect place to cool off or enjoy a guided kayak tour!
14. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Put this one of the top of your things to see in Arizona list! The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is unlike any other museum you’ve ever experienced. That’s because it’s not just a museum – it’s also a zoo, a botanical garden, art gallery, and an aquarium! It’s one of the only places where you can come face-to-snout with javelinas before wandering through an agave garden and a jaw-dropping artificial cave.
15. Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls is hands down one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Arizona. Vibrant turquoise waters fall from bright orange cliffs, creating an unbelievably beautiful landscape. To help protect this natural oasis, permits are required to explore the area and no walk-ins are allowed. So, if you’re ready to tackle this once-in-a-lifetime trail, be sure to plan early and remember to leave no trace!
After reading this list of 15 Things to See in Arizona, we hope you feel inspired to explore the legendary Copper State. What are you waiting for? Discover your next Arizona adventure today!
