Top 33 Must-See Attractions in Arizona for 2025

Arizona is something else. The southwestern state is most famous for the Grand Canyon, but truth be told, there are so many incredible places to visit in Arizona. You can see the Petrified Forest National Park or mountain biking in the Sonoran Desert. There are instrument-themed museums and even a ghost town or two to explore. Arizona is so varied in its attractions and things to do, and the desert atmosphere and remains of Wild West culture make it a bucket list travel destination. So, what are the best things to do in Arizona?

Amazing Things to Do in Arizona

These top 33 things to do in Arizona should all make your Arizona bucket list. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers will particularly love the selection of national parks and hiking trails. However, there are some cultural attractions and museums up for grabs too. Get ready for some Arizona inspiration.

1. Grand Canyon National Park

Natural beauty doesn’t get much more sought-after than at the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is a massive chasm that attracts around 6 million visitors annually – staggering, right? It isn’t just aesthetically impressive though; it has some incredible history. Hence why it is one of the most famous attractions in all of U.S. history.

The canyon drops over a mile from top to canyon floor in sections, and the red rock bands evidence millions of years of geology. It is history frozen by nature. The views are pretty impressive too.

When visiting the Grand Canyon National Park, you have the South Rim or the North Rim to choose from. The South Rim is known for its tourist-friendly vibe – accessible with plenty of views and an excellent visitor center. Most people head to the South Rim; approximately 4-5 million of the 6 million visitors the Grand Canyon attracts. The South Rim is also set at a lower elevation, meaning you look up at the other side of the canyon, which creates a better view.

The North Rim is quiet, less developed, and better for adventurous tourists. While it only attracts a measly 1-2 million visitors annually, this is a grave mistake for those who pass it by. Visiting the North Rim is one of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon. We suggest driving the Cape Royal Scenic Road along the North Rim and stopping at the significant viewpoints.

2. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument is a beautiful historical monument. The limestone cliff dwelling is set 27 meters up on a cliff face, dating back to approximately AD 1100. As some of the best preserved historical dwellings in the state – if not the U.S. – Montezuma Castle should definitely bag a spot on your bucket list. It has tons of cultural history, and while being able to go inside the castle was paused in 1951, you can still take ranger-led tours to admire its exterior.

The walking trail to reach Montezuma Castle is a breeze and less than a mile return. There is also a cute little gift shop near the entrance, alongside a small museum with some extra information.

3. London Bridge in Lake Havasu City

Visiting London Bridge is not a recommendation you thought you’d see in a guide on things to do in Arizona. However, London Bridge is one of the highlights in Lake Havasu City, making it well worth a detour. The bridge was originally built in London in the 1830s. In 1968, the bridge was purchased by Robert P. McCulloch and moved brick by brick before being reconstructed over the Colorado River in Lake Havasu City. The fact that Britain sold London Bridge to the U.S. is quite a random bit of trivia, and it is claimed as the world’s largest antique ever sold.

Lake Havasu City is located right on the California-Arizona border, only a 2.5-hour drive south of Las Vegas. If you feel like darting over the Nevada border, you may wish to combine the two.

4. Saguaro National Park

Speaking of novelty and big titles, how about visiting the U.S.’s largest cacti? Saguaro National Park is one of the best things to do in Arizona. The park spans 90,000 acres and is situated just outside of Tucson, in fact, sandwiching the city between its two sections. It derives its name from the saguaro cactus, a famously large type of cactus native to the Tucson region. Bring a camera; the cacti are everywhere, and it provides the postcard old west experience many hope to have in Arizona.

To appreciate Saguaro National Park, we suggest allowing a few hours to enjoy the park’s hiking trails and main sightseeing points. If you have longer, that is fantastic. Saguaro National Park allows backpacking and camping, presenting adventurous activities for those wanting a more in-depth experience.

5. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is one of the most unusual things to do in Arizona. Get any picture of a standard forest out of your head and instead imagine a tree graveyard desert-style. The park contains hundreds of Triassic-aged petrified trees scattered along the ground, often colorful thanks to varying ages of rock. Archeologists, paleontologists, and geologists unite in awe at this spot. You can join a guided tour with the rangers to learn about the importance of these mysterious trees. There are even fossils and dinosaur remains to spot en route.

Petrified Forest National Park is just under 2 hours away from Flagstaff by car, making it easy to combine with a Flagstaff stay or a visit to the Grand Canyon.

6. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a breathtaking area of natural beauty in the Navajo Nation. The sweeping desert area is mainly flat, apart from massive red sandstone buttes that jut out of the sands at random intervals. You’ll probably recognize Monument Valley already, as it is a favorite backdrop in many old Western movies.

The best way to experience Monument Valley independently is to drive the 17-mile Valley Drive. This way, you can visit at your own pace, stopping at significant viewpoints like John Ford’s Point. Visiting Monument Valley by car takes around 4 hours if you take your time and enjoy the views. If you are short on time, consider checking out this tour of Monument Valley from Sedona. You can also take a horseback riding tour through the area for added adventure.

7. Mountain Biking in Sedona

There are some incredible things to do in Sedona, and one of the best activities is mountain biking. Sedona boasts exhilarating biking trails suited for intermediate and advanced mountain bikers, including designated bike park areas.

Sedona Bike Skills Park is a favorite for perfecting jumps and cornering, while the High on the Hog Trail and Bell Rock Pathway are ideal for putting those skills into action. Moreover, you don’t need your own mountain bike—there are plenty of rental options available around town. It’s the spot where biking reigns supreme, and you can even join a mountain bike tour of the nearby trails.

8. Glen Canyon Dam

Glen Canyon Dam is a fascinating manmade construct. This landmark is a massive hydroelectric dam situated along the Arizona-Utah border. Glen Canyon Dam ranks among the largest in the U.S., just slightly smaller than the Hoover Dam. It’s a remarkable feat to view up close, making it one of the most exciting activities to do in Arizona.

You can take guided tours around Glen Canyon Dam. Plus, there is a large visitor center featuring exhibits and a gift shop. A significant advantage of visiting Glen Canyon over Hoover Dam is the quieter atmosphere; this dam is less frequented by large tour buses and swarms of camera-happy tourists, ensuring a more peaceful visit.

9. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is an astounding sight, to say the least. The monument features a collection of red rock formations arranged in uneven mounds and dome-shaped pyramids. The highlight is how the formations are layered with rocks of different colors, creating a stunning effect, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a pinkish hue over the landscape.

The monument covers over 280,000 acres, giving you many hiking trails to choose from. The most famous hikes are the Wave Hike and White Pocket. The Wave Hike is longer, at 7 miles in and out, leading you to an iconic viewpoint showcasing a ‘wave’ phenomenon with the rock split into thousands of smooth lines. White Pocket is much shorter, covering just 2 miles in total, and takes you through beautifully colored domes. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument deserves a day or two to explore.

10. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

Where better to appreciate natural history in Arizona than in the Sonoran Desert? The Arizona Sonora Desert Museum spans 98 acres on the outskirts of Saguaro National Park and encompasses multiple attractions—including a desert botanical garden, art gallery, natural history museum, and aquarium. This museum is dedicated to conservation and education about the natural history and wildlife native to its desert environment.

Children will enjoy the engaging aspects of the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, but this is truly an attraction for all ages. Adults will especially benefit from the informative experience. Walking through the desert botanical garden offers a photogenic and unique adventure.

11. Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum is located in the heart of Phoenix, one of Arizona’s major cities. As the largest museum of its kind, it is a highly sought-after attraction for music lovers. You’ll find an astounding collection of over 15,000 musical instruments, including an instrument from every inhabited continent. Aside from admiring exhibits, you can also attend concerts held regularly at the Musical Instrument Museum. Moreover, if you are visiting with family, the museum frequently hosts child-focused events.

12. Canyon De Chelly National Monument

Canyon De Chelly National Monument has been a significant site in ancient history. The Ancient Puebloans used the canyon as a shelter for crops and families, and this canyon has been passed down through generations. The Hopi people settled in the area, followed by the Navajo people, with human occupation dating back nearly 5,000 years. In 1931, Canyon De Chelly National Monument was established to preserve the area and its rich history.

When visiting, you have several options: embark on a free canyon hike with a ranger-led tour, explore the overlooks independently for beautiful canyon views, or take a canyon tour with a Navajo guide.

13. Phoenix Art Museum

Don’t underestimate this; the Phoenix Art Museum is Southwestern America’s largest art museum. It boasts a significant permanent collection housing more than 19,000 works from international artists. While at the museum, you can also catch scheduled lectures, tours, and films for a more enriching experience.

If you’re an art enthusiast, add this museum to your itinerary immediately. Even if you don’t typically gravitate towards art, you should not miss this opportunity while visiting Phoenix.

14. Brewery Hop in Downtown Phoenix

Everyone deserves to unwind occasionally. While in Arizona, why not brewery hop your way through Downtown Phoenix? You can discover dozens of breweries, including Tombstone Brewing Company and State 48 Brewery. Jot down a few and plan an afternoon of brewery exploration.

There are plenty of rideshares available in Downtown Phoenix, so transportation between breweries won’t be a concern. Depending on your choices, some breweries even offer tasting experiences.

15. Ski in Flagstaff

Skiing is one of the top things to do in Arizona—which is admittedly surprising given the common perception of the state as just the ‘Canyon State’ or entirely desert. Flagstaff is a world-renowned ski area, offering prime opportunities to don your skis and tackle challenging slopes. The main ski resort in Flagstaff, Arizona Snowbowl, receives an average of 260 inches of snowfall annually, providing beginner-friendly slopes for those looking to try skiing.

16. Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center is an exciting explosion of scientific activity. The center features live demos, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater, spanning four stories of engaging exhibits. This destination can effortlessly occupy half a day of exploration. If you prefer indoor activities, the Arizona Science Center ranks among the top attractions to consider in Arizona due to its variety.

Since it is centrally located in Phoenix, it’s easy to incorporate a visit to the Arizona Science Center into your itinerary, potentially combining it with other attractions like the Heard Museum.

17. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon appears as if it could belong in a daydream. Dust-billowing rays of light dance along the smooth curves and ridges of the burnt orange sandstone; walking along the canyon floor is an absolute must. It is one of the most classic experiences to have in Arizona, and visiting should not be missed. The slot canyon provides an adventurous hiking opportunity while attracting photographers eager to capture its beauty.

To explore Antelope Canyon, you must book a guided tour with a Navajo guide. It is essential to respect the land ownership and the local culture during your visit.

18. Lake Powell

Lake Powell is regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in the U.S., making it an essential stop on your visit to Arizona. Its dramatic red rock formations and cliffs create breathtaking scenery. With nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, Lake Powell is a popular swimming destination from June to August, offering a inviting atmosphere for family day trips.

While Lake Powell spans the Arizona-Utah border, it is easy to explore if you’re visiting the Navajo Nation or the Grand Canyon.

19. State Farm Stadium

State Farm Stadium is a 63,400-capacity NFL stadium in Glendale, located just outside Phoenix. If you’re interested in watching NFL games, this stadium is a fantastic option. Its retractable roof ensures it can host events in any weather, providing a modern appeal. While it serves as the home ground for the Arizona Cardinals Football Club, it also hosts various basketball and music events.

During the NFL season, keep an eye on the schedule to see if any games coincide with your visit. Outside the season, check for alternative events to catch a glimpse inside the stadium.

20. Rock Climbing in Mount Lemmon

Rock climbing is an exhilarating way to spend half a day in Arizona. For those new to the activity, booking a climbing tour or private session with a guide can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. We recommend going to Mount Lemmon, one of Arizona’s top rock climbing spots.

Mount Lemmon offers a 7,000-foot elevation gain and describes fascinating domes and pinnacles to climb, making it suitable for varying skill levels.

21. Hike in the Superstition Mountains

When visiting Arizona, hiking in the Superstition Mountains should be on your must-do list. These mountains are steeped in legend, particularly regarding the Lost Dutchman Mine—a massive gold mine rumored to be hidden within the range, with legends claiming it’s cursed due to the number of people who have gone missing searching for it.

While we don’t recommend hunting for the Lost Dutchman Mine, we do advocate in favor of hiking in the Superstition Mountains. This famous range is not only scenic but also offers trails like the Superstition Mountain Hieroglyphic Trail at just 3 miles round trip, allowing you to spot ancient petroglyphs created by the Hohokam people.

22. Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is among the most significant institutions in the U.S. dedicated entirely to American Indian art and cultural heritage. It encompasses a variety of themes within the exhibits—from historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples to the celebration of beautiful artworks and culturally significant artifacts. The Heard Museum presents these vast topics and lived experiences with inspiring vigor.

Situated just outside central Phoenix, you can allow a few hours to explore the museum, potentially combining it with your visits to the nearby Phoenix Art Museum.

23. Hoover Dam

Technically, the Hoover Dam is located in Nevada, but it straddles the Nevada-Arizona border, so it finds its place on our list of essential attractions in Arizona. It ranks as one of the largest dams in the U.S. and blocks in Lake Mead—the nation’s largest reservoir by volume. To truly appreciate its size and significance, visiting the Hoover Dam is a must.

Exploring the Hoover Dam is straightforward and can be easily combined with a trip to Lake Havasu City or a detour into Las Vegas. Regular tours are available, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Just head to the visitor center for all the necessary information.

24. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark offers a unique outdoor adventure. This ancient meteorite impact site is home to one of the most awe-inspiring outdoor experiences in Arizona. The crater provides a profound perspective on geological history, and the scenic views are simply magnificent.

Meteor Crater has excellent visitor facilities. Some may find the gift shop pricey, while others describe it as overly commercialized. However, the Interactive Discovery Center excels at enhancing your knowledge of this historical site. The visitor center features a widescreen theater and offers access to a crater trail, allowing you to get up close to the edge.

25. Havasu Falls

We don’t like to exaggerate, but Havasu Falls is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the U.S. Its striking pastel light blue water, stemming from high calcium carbonate and magnesium levels, flows over 100 feet into a large plunge pool at the bottom. One of the best parts? You can swim here—rare among stunning waterfalls, since many are off-limits to protect their natural beauty. Havasu Falls remains relatively undiscovered, allowing for a more pristine experience.

Accessing Havasu Falls requires a 10-mile hike each way, so be sure to bring enough water and sturdy shoes.

26. Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument is a 12,000-acre national park renowned for its bizarre rock formations. The most captivating feature is a massive balancing rock that precariously rests atop another rock on a narrow pinnacle. Chiricahua National Monument might not be the first national park that comes to mind while seeking things to do in Arizona, but it deserves a top spot on your list. Dubbed the ‘Wonderland of Rocks,’ it is an incredible destination to explore.

The scenic drive provides the best route to experience Chiricahua National Monument, traversing an approximately 8-mile loop around dramatic formations. There are also numerous hiking trails to challenge yourself with, ideal for individuals with reasonable fitness levels.

27. Papago Park

Papago Park is a sprawling 1,500-acre park within Phoenix, offering over 10 miles of hiking trails. It is the type of place where you can bring a picnic lunch and relax under the sun. However, it features unique attractions that differentiate it from a typical urban park, including the Hole-in-the-Rock Formation. This sandstone structure features holes created by erosion; you can climb up and sit within the largest holes, which resemble a giant cave and provide stunning views.

Visiting during sunset is highly recommended as Papago Park closes at 11 PM. Packing a romantic picnic and climbing the Hole-in-the-Rock makes for a delightful evening activity.

28. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is arguably the most recognized point along the Colorado River. Does the name ring a bell? It features a dramatic meander in the river, accentuated by striking contrasting colors of sandstone and deep blue water. While Horseshoe Bend may not hold an official title as a natural wonder of the world, it certainly deserves to be among them.

Visiting Horseshoe Bend is an unmissable activity in Arizona, attracting around 2 million travelers each year. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Glen Canyon Dam, making it easy to combine the two experiences. The spot is also just a short, 1.5-mile (round trip) walk from the parking area via Horseshoe Bend Trail.

29. Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Hall of Flame Fire Museum is a fascinating historical museum documenting the evolution of the fire service from the 1700s to the present. The museum employs a visual, display-heavy approach, allowing you to get up close to impressive fire engines, some dating back as far as 1725. This immersive experience is intensely captivating with the sheer number of artifacts on display, allowing you to engage with history like few other museums.

Though only a handful of museums delve so deeply into fire service history, Hall of Flame provides a unique insight. Consider adding this attraction to your itinerary while staying in Phoenix.

30. Museum of Northern Arizona

If you’re eager to explore museums, the Museum of Northern Arizona is one of the finest options in the state. This non-profit institution covers a vast timeline stretching from 15,000 B.C. to the modern era, focusing on events that transpired on the Colorado Plateau. The museum’s passion for its subject matter creates a compelling experience filled with hundreds of exhibits detailing human histories, natural history, and geology. One moment you may encounter Native American artifacts, and the next, a dinosaur skeleton or Star Wars memorabilia.

31. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Taking a hot air balloon ride offers one of the most memorable experiences while visiting Arizona. Numerous hot air ballooning opportunities are available throughout the state, with flying over the Grand Canyon, the outskirts of Phoenix, or Tucson being particularly popular. The beauty of this experience lies in its romantic and serene nature; you may hardly feel as though you are moving. Be sure to seize the chance for a sunrise or sunset flight, as well!

Popular ballooning companies include Hot Air Expeditions, Rainbow Ryders, and APEX Hot Air Balloon Rides, with average prices hovering around $200 per person. Therefore, don’t worry too much about the differences—just check for what fits your chosen Arizona destination.

32. Chapel of the Holy Cross

Prepare yourself to visit one of the most unusual churches you’ve possibly seen. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, featuring an abstract 1950s design, juts out over the town of Chapel from a red rock butte. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning Sedona views, this Catholic church is a unique, low-cost attraction in Arizona. For architecture enthusiasts or those with religious sentiments, a visit here is an absolute must.

Conveniently located between Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is only a 50-minute drive from Flagstaff, making it easy to integrate into any trip to Northern Arizona.

33. Desert Botanical Garden

For nature lovers, the Desert Botanical Garden is an absolute gem. This expansive 140-acre garden features over 50,000 plants in a stunningly designed landscape within Phoenix. The presence of such vast and diverse green space within an urban setting is remarkable. If you’re seeking a ‘desert experience’ during your visit to Phoenix, this location should be a top priority.

Take your time walking through the Desert Botanical Garden and consider bringing a picnic lunch for a delightful afternoon activity. The garden also boasts dining facilities, a gift shop, and a library for post-plant entertainment.

FAQs: Things to do in Arizona

Here are some essential details to ensure you have a fantastic visit. We’ve covered the best things to do in Arizona, so let’s explore some logistics.

How to Get to Arizona

The simplest way to reach Arizona is to fly. You can arrive directly at Phoenix Sky Harbor or Tucson International Airport, which have regular flights operated by major airlines like Delta and Air Canada. If you’re coming from overseas, flying is your best option. Even for domestic travelers, the majority find that air travel is the quickest and most convenient means to reach Arizona. Consequently, many travelers typically land in the ‘fly to Arizona’ category. Set your flight notifications on platforms like Skyscanner to secure the best deals.

If you have a bit more time on your hands and prefer traveling overland, consider using Amtrak. It connects many regions of the U.S. and offers daily or twice-daily train services. Arizona is no exception; for example, you can travel from Los Angeles to Phoenix by train in about 15 hours. Train tickets are relatively inexpensive when booked in advance, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly travel experience.

Finally, embarking on a road trip to Arizona is a popular choice. After all, who doesn’t love a classic U.S. road trip? You can tick off your Route 66 aspirations and combine your visit to Arizona with a few other states!

Getting Around Arizona

Ingeniously navigating Arizona typically requires a car. Although Northern Arizona is connected by coach services and guided tours due to the concentration of attractions, experiencing Arizona genuinely requires a vehicle so you can go off the beaten path or visit popular tourist destinations at your own convenience. If you want to see as many of Arizona’s attractions as possible, consider renting a car or bringing your own. You can check out this excellent Arizona road trip itinerary.

Only city hopping? If you’re sticking primarily to cities and major towns, you may be able to get by without a car. Just keep in mind that guided tours may be necessary for major attractions, like the Grand Canyon or Antelope Canyon. However, in cities like Tucson or Phoenix, you can use public transportation to get around with ease. As a rule of thumb, these urban areas are often better explored without a car. Being centrally located will even allow you to walk to most inner-city attractions!

In conclusion, if you want to reach remote attractions, renting a car is advisable. If you remain in cities and major towns, you may use public transport as needed. However, if organized guided tours top your bucket list, you can always rent a car for a day.

Best Time to Visit Arizona

When it comes to visiting Arizona, we cannot stress enough the significance of the shoulder seasons. Not only are summer months overflowing with tourists, but they’re also unbelievably hot. Indeed, the last thing you’d want is to visit Arizona during the summer. The ideal months are during spring and fall. Among these, March is particularly appealing due to its lower tourist traffic while remaining warm, with pleasant temperatures around 82°F. You’ll see lovely wildflowers blossoming everywhere, making it a wholesome time to experience the state.

What is the most visited place in Arizona?

No surprise here: the most visited spot in Arizona is the Grand Canyon, attracting around 6 million visitors annually.

What is a big attraction in Arizona?

The Grand Canyon stands out as a major attraction in Arizona. However, other significant attractions include Petrified Forest National Park, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, and the Hoover Dam.

How many days should I spend in Arizona?

We recommend spending a minimum of 4-5 days in Arizona. Ideally, this stunning state warrants weeks—or even a month—to fully appreciate all it has to offer!

Why Should You Visit Arizona?

Feeling inspired and ready to tackle your Arizona bucket list? Arizona is far more than just the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend! The array of activities available is remarkable, from the Desert Botanical Garden and hiking trails in Saguaro National Park to the mesmerizing red rock formations at Canyon De Chelly National Monument. There’s also no shortage of museums, including the Heard Museum and the Phoenix Art Museum. Arizona leaves an indelible impression.

For additional information about one of the U.S.’s most exciting states, check out these fun facts. You can also explore accommodation options in this guide on the best cabins in Arizona. Make sure to allow for some extra time to consider additional research—just for fun! Arizona is a captivating destination, and you’re sure to love it.