Breathtaking sights, incredible landscapes, vibrant cities, and natural wonders – there are many reasons why #Arizona is one of the best places to visit in #USA. Often referred to by the locals as the 48th state, Arizona has something for every type of traveler. With so many amazing places to explore and discover, narrowing down your choices can be quite challenging.
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To help you out, we've gathered a list of 10 best places to visit in Arizona. Let's take a look.
1. Phoenix
Known as the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix is a home to a number of unique attractions. The award-winning restaurants and bars in the metropolitan area of the city offer an amazing dining experience while the world-class spas and museums such as the Heard Museum and the Musical Instrument Museum make it a relaxing getaway.
The state capital and the fifth-largest U.S. city also boasts a plethora of golf courses and hiking and biking trails. So if you're looking for a dynamic vacation, Phoenix is an Arizona holiday destination you should definitely consider.
2. Chandler
Located southeast of Phoenix, Chandler is a city adored by both the visitors and the locals. This Phoenix suburb offers so many outdoor activities and fun experiences that it can be quite difficult to decide where to head first. From ice skating in the desert to high-performance driving to urban fishing, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The Koli Equestrian Center is ideal for horseback riding fans while golf courses will challenge all levels of players. After a long day, indulge in a Hawaii experience spa or treat yourself to a delicious barbecue at the Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse.
3. Tucson
One of the sunniest cities in the US, Tucson is the second-largest city in Arizona, and a home to numerous museums. The University of Arizona is also located in Tucson, which is why this city has such a youthful vibe.
The Saguaro National Park along with Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway and Sabino Canyon Recreation Area are the ideal spots for Tucson visitors who are all about hiking, sightseeing, and recreation. On the other hand, if you happen to be fascinated by aircraft or cars, The Pima Air & Space Museum and Franklin Auto Museum are must-sees.
4. Sedona
In for a relaxing and rejuvenating outdoor experience? Then Sedona could be just the right place for you. Located in the heart of the Arizona desert, Sedona is famous for being a place of spiritual renewal and healing. The unique rock formations at the Red Rock State Park make this destination quite popular among outdoor enthusiasts, and they’re truly something to see and feel.
In fact, many visitors describe these rocks as healing due to the energy that’s emitted from the earth. And if you head downtown, you’ll run into a number of New Age shops. You may even get a chance to have your aura read or go on a UFO tour.
It’s so rustic and beautiful and yet packs so much diversity and flavor! When most people think of Sedona, they just picture the Red Rocks and Towering Messa that adorn the area. But Sedona is far more diverse than that. There’s an area near Coconino National Forest that is so incredibly gorgeous, it’s like driving through the Appalachian Mountains. Tress everywhere with cute lil cottages, brooks and streams, and trails abounding.
5. Prescott
Another amazing destination located in central Arizona, Prescott is a city full of hidden gems. The amazing scenery and many hiking, camping, and kayaking opportunities make Prescott the perfect place for outdoor recreation. Its city life is just as rich and exciting, with restaurants, distilleries, and microbreweries at practically every corner.
Its downtown also boasts historic sites such as the Elks Theatre along with Whiskey Row, a part of Prescott's Western heritage. If you’re looking for a way to experience the True West, this is it.
6. Flagstaff
While Flagstaff is usually seen as a stopover while traveling to the Grand Canyon, this city offers so much more. From art galleries and specialty stores to restaurants and downtown breweries, Flagstaff is an experience-rich destination in its own right. Whether you head to Flagstaff Brewery Trailer to please your craft beer palate or decide to explore the health-conscious menu of Pizzicletta is up to you!
If you’re feeling adventurous, you should go on a self-guided walking tour and explore the Railroad District and Historic Downtown. Or, you can head to the Arizona Snowbowl and spend the day on hiking trails or ski slopes.
7. Bisbee
If you're interested in exploring towns' pasts, then Bisbee could be just what you're looking for. A former mining town, Bisbee is located in the mountains in the Arizona’s southeast, near the Mexican border. Once a town with its own little community, Bisbee became a ghost town after they closed the mines. If you take a walking tour, you can get a taste of what the town was like back then.
You can also learn more about the town by visiting Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum and Copper Queen Mine.
8. Jerome
Speaking of ghost towns, Jerome is another city that nearly met a similar fate. That is, if it weren't for the artists who started moving in during the 1960s. Nowadays, it's a tourist attraction, and a city abundant in restaurants, winery tasting rooms, and specialty shops. The best part? You can easily make it a day trip if you're staying in Prescott, Flagstaff, Phoenix, or Sedona.
On your way over, make sure to visit Jerome State Historic Park and Gold King Mine Museum. These are great places to learn more about the past of this mining town.
9. Monument Valley
If you're looking for an adventure and some great Instagram-worthy landscape photos, look no further than the Monument Valley. Iconic and incredible, it's easy to see why numerous commercials and movies featured the massive red sandstone buttes and mesas. You can explore the amazing and jaw-dropping landscape on your own by taking a self-drive route that's 17 miles long.
You also have the option to join a guided tour for a more in-depth exploration.
Wrapping upWith so many attractions to offer, there's no doubt that Arizona can be an amazing destination to spend your vacation. Whether you decide to head to a major city or explore the breathtaking landscapes Arizona has been naturally blessed with is up to you. One thing’s for certain – you won’t be making a mistake by choosing any of the Arizona destinations listed above.
