Arizona is a land of extremes—towering canyons, cactus-studded deserts, and red rock trails that feel almost otherworldly. Whether you’re chasing national park views or exploring hidden corners with rich history and vibrant culture, the state offers more than most travelers expect. Here are 14 unforgettable experiences to add to your Arizona bucket list.
Desert Botanical Garden
Located in Phoenix, this garden showcases the beauty and resilience of desert life. Wander among towering cacti, blooming wildflowers, and interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the butterfly pavilion or seasonal events such as luminous night walks.
Grand Canyon National Park: Bigger Than You Imagine
We knew it would be grand—but standing on the rim, it felt almost unreal. The scale, the silence, the shifting light—it’s a place that defies description. Whether you hike below the rim, ride the rails to the South Rim, or simply soak in the views, the Grand Canyon delivers awe in every direction.
Explore our Grand Canyon guide for tips, trails, and accessibility notes.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Spider Rock rises 800 feet from the canyon floor—a sacred spire in the heart of Navajo land.
On Navajo land in northeastern Arizona, this canyon blends natural beauty with deep cultural history. Spider Rock rises dramatically from the canyon floor, and guided tours offer insight into ancient cliff dwellings and Indigenous traditions.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Lake Powell steals the spotlight, but Glen Canyon’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks are just as compelling. Whether you’re boating, camping, or photographing the surreal rock formations, this area offers endless ways to explore.
Saguaro National Park: A Forest of Giants
Sunset paints the desert gold as saguaros stand tall in silhouette—Arizona’s quiet giants at dusk.
We didn’t expect to feel so moved by a cactus. But walking among towering saguaros—some over 200 years old—was surprisingly humbling. The desert here is alive with color, texture, and wildlife. We hiked early to beat the heat and caught golden light filtering through the spines.
Check out our Saguaro guide for trail tips and seasonal advice.
Visit Flagstaff
Cooler temps, mountain air, and a college-town vibe make Flagstaff a refreshing escape. We love the easy access to hiking, stargazing at Lowell Observatory, and the laid-back downtown scene.
Petrified Forest National Park: Colorful, Quiet, and Underrated
Red skies ignite the layered hills of Blue Mesa—where ancient clay meets the fire of sunset.
This park surprised us the most. The painted hills, fossilized logs, and wide-open silence felt otherworldly. We spent a full day exploring scenic overlooks, short hikes, and historic sites—and barely scratched the surface.
Read our Petrified Forest guide for a one-day itinerary and what to expect.
Antelope Canyon
These twisting slot canyons near Page are a photographer’s dream. Light beams, sculpted sandstone, and narrow passageways create a surreal experience. Tours are required—and worth it.
London Bridge, Lake Havasu
Yes, it’s the real London Bridge—relocated and rebuilt in Arizona. It’s quirky, historic, and surprisingly scenic. The surrounding lake offers boating, beaches, and desert views.
Sedona: As Beautiful as Any National Park
Sedona isn’t a national park—but it sure feels like one. The red rock trails here rival anything we’ve hiked, and the views are endlessly rewarding. From Cathedral Rock to Boynton Canyon, every trail offers something special. Add in art galleries, cozy cafés, and a laid-back vibe, and you’ve got a destination that blends adventure with soul.
Explore our Sedona tips for hikes, scenic drives, and great places to eat.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
In southern Arizona, this lesser-known park protects a rare cactus ecosystem. It’s remote, wild, and full of life—from bighorn sheep to blooming desert flora. Ideal for solitude seekers and plant lovers.
Tumacácori National Historical Park
History meets nature at this Spanish mission site near the Mexican border. Walk through centuries-old ruins, learn about Indigenous and colonial history, and enjoy peaceful desert trails.
Phoenix Art Museum
With over 20,000 works and rotating exhibits, this museum is a cultural anchor in the Southwest. From contemporary installations to classic pieces, it’s a great way to spend a few hours indoors.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead stretches into the desert beyond Hoover Dam—a vast reservoir framed by engineering and silence.
Created by the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead offers boating, hiking, and wildlife watching. It’s a popular spot for weekend getaways, with plenty of coves and beaches to explore.
From Canyons to Cactus: Your Turn to Explore
Arizona is more than just sunshine and saguaros—it’s a state of contrasts, colors, and quiet surprises. Whether you’re chasing canyon views or wandering art galleries, there’s always something new to discover. We’ve shared our favorites and tapped fellow travelers for the rest—now it’s your turn to explore.