Exploring Arizona: Where to Go and What to Do

Arizona is best known for being home to the Grand Canyon, desert landscapes and inviting weather.  Many travelers from nearby states such as Nevada and California visit Arizona for it’s friendly southwest hospitality. If the Grand Canyon isn’t enough to make you want to spend time in Arizona, it also has plenty more to offer. The state has some incredible parks and natural sites, as well as some bustling, lively cities. The capital of Phoenix is a popular choice for tourists, and there are plenty of other places to explore as well. For anyone thinking about taking a trip to Arizona, there are so many options to make it a memorable vacation.  Let’s take a look at some of the best places to visit in Arizona.

Visit Arizona’s Vibrant Cities

Arizona has some fantastic cities that offer an array of things to do and ways to explore. In Phoenix, you’ll find a great restaurant scene, a lively music scene, and everything from acclaimed golf courses to spas. You can hire luxury transportation in Tucson and explore the sunny city (an average of 350 sunny days a year) or take a drive on the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway. Not far from Phoenix, Scottsdale has luxury resorts, great dining, and excellent access to outdoor pursuits. You can find fun in any city in Arizona.

Head to National Parks and Natural Wonders

If you’re someone who prefers the outdoors to urban environments, you won’t be short of places to visit in Arizona. Of course, there’s the Grand Canyon, which is a natural wonder that no one should miss. But beyond that, there’s so much more to explore. Head to Sedona to see the beautiful red rocks and discover plenty of opportunities for hiking. See even more stunning rock formations at the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, nearby Antelope Canyon, or take a trip to Petrified Forest National Park, where a variety of activities awaits you.

Get a Taste of History

There’s a lot of history to explore across Arizona, from natural history and the cultures of indigenous people to the Old West. The town of Bisbee is a great place to visit if you’re looking for somewhere to learn about the Arizona of the past, including the mining industry. Travel to Apache Junction, and you can connect with the Old West and the gold rush through Goldfield Ghost Town and other attractions in the area. Or go to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument to see the country’s first archaeological preserve.

Spend Time By the Water

Arizona might be a land-locked state, but that doesn’t mean there’s no water for those who like watersports and other related activities. There are some amazing lakes in the state, which offer opportunities to boat, fish, swim, waterski, and more. Try a visit to Lake Havasu, where London Bridge (not to be confused with Tower Bridge) was relocated in the 1970s. Or, at Saguaro Lake, fish for bass, trout, and catfish. Lake Powell on the Utah border is excellent for a range of activities too.

Arizona has so much to offer, from its cities to its lakes. Explore what the state can do for you on your next vacation.