Arizona’s 33 Must-See Tourist Destinations and Attractions
A snapshot of the Old West, Arizona dazzles with its vibrant blend of surreal scenery and age-old heritage. The sprawling, sunbaked terrain merges these elements so seamlessly they become inseparable. This harmony only deepens the journey for every traveler.
No trip to Arizona is complete without visiting the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Yet beyond the blazing valleys and the snowy San Francisco Peaks, you’ll find a delightful mix of natural wonders and man-made attractions sure to captivate every traveler.
The morning starts as the sun climbs above the horizon, casting a vibrant glow across the rust-colored terrain. By evening, the heavens dazzle with countless stars, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Between these moments lies a realm of exploration, both puzzling and illuminating, waiting for you to uncover.
Since becoming the 48th state in the Union, Arizona’s globally renowned destinations, including the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam, and Saguaro National Park, have attracted visitors from across the globe.
- 33. Wupatki National Monument
- 32. Lowell Observatory
- 31. The Glen Canyon Dam
- 30. Chiricahua National Monument
- 29. Taliesin West, located in Scottsdale
- 28. Petrified Forest National Park
- 27. Biosphere 2
- 26. Hit the slopes in Flagstaff
- 25. Lake Powell
- 23. Flintstone’s Bedrock City
- 22. Jerome
- 21. Walnut Canyon National Monument
- 20. Mission San Xavier del Bac
- 19. The Wave
- 18. Titan Missile Museum, Sahuarita
- 17. The London Bridge situated in Lake Havasu
- 16. Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona
- 15. Meteor Crater
- 14. Tombstone
- 12. Monument Valley
- 11. Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- 10. Cruise Along Route 66
- 9. The Hoover Dam
- 8. Saguaro National Park
- 7. Montezuma Castle
- 6. Pima Air and Space Museum, Tucson
- 5. Havasu Falls
- 4. Antelope Canyon
- 3. Horseshoe Bend
- 2. The Iconic Red Rock Formations of Sedona
- 1. Grand Canyon National Park
- Arizona Tourist Attractions Map
33. Wupatki National Monument
The well-preserved pueblos at Wupatki National Monument stand among the finest Native American archaeological sites in the nation. Rich with history and tradition, these ancient structures offer an immersive glimpse into the cultural legacy of the Hopi and Zuni peoples.
The national monument holds profound significance. This site traces its origins to the Neolithic era, spanning thousands of years, and leads visitors on a journey of growth and evolution up to the most recent two centuries.
Seven ancient pueblos await discovery within Wupatki National Monument. A network of four winding trails leads visitors to each site, framed by the breathtaking scenery of open grasslands and striking red rock formations surrounding the monument.
32. Lowell Observatory
Discover your passion for astronomy with a trip to Arizona’s Lowell Observatory. Established in 1894, the observatory has long served as a premier destination for exploring the cosmos, attracting both amateur stargazers and professional astronomers. It was at this very site that scientists made the groundbreaking discovery of Pluto!
Today, you can acquire high-quality telescopes to observe your preferred planets and constellations. This can be complemented by attending lectures that delve into topics such as Black Holes.
The observatory’s rich history is showcased through classic scientific texts, antique instruments, and Lowell’s first telescope, all available for viewing.
Visit after dark to witness the sky in its most stunning state, if possible.
31. Glen Canyon Dam
Constructing the Glen Canyon Dam and forming Lake Powell by damming the Colorado River required eight years of effort. These features constitute the primary components of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. This reservoir ranks among the biggest artificial lakes in the United States.
The town of Page offers a breathtaking experience, showcasing nature’s grandeur. Stretching 15 miles from the dam through the canyon to Lees Ferry, the scenery captivates with its stunning beauty. The vivid blue waters stand in striking contrast to the desert’s rugged buttes and towering bluffs.
Along the shoreline, you’ll discover trails perfect for hiking and biking. Marinas and docks offer entry to vast areas ideal for water-based activities.
30. Chiricahua National Monument
Nestled among whimsical rock formations and soaring stone columns, Chiricahua National Monument is a breathtaking landscape of natural beauty. Yet beyond its striking scenery, the monument holds deep significance as the ancestral land of the Chiricahua Apache, adding layers of cultural and historical richness to its allure.
In southeastern Arizona, Chiricahua National Monument is renowned as the Sky Islands, reaching heights of over 7,300 feet. The region experiences cooler temperatures than the scorching valleys below, fostering a richer variety of plant life that enhances the striking rock formations.
The iconic sandstone of Arizona contrasts with age-old volcanic remnants, rhyolite. Together, they form a landscape dotted with hoodoos, precariously stacked boulders, and towering spires. Winding trails weave through the terrain, revealing traces of the Apache people who inhabited this region until the latter half of the 19th century.
29. Taliesin West, located in Scottsdale
The quiet charm of Frank Lloyd Wright’s influence is evident across Arizona. Yet his winter residence, Taliesin West, rises above the rest. Located in Scottsdale, Wright’s meticulously designed home is now safeguarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Taliesin West served not only as his winter residence and creative studio but also as a lasting educational hub for his apprentices. Collaboratively, they pushed the limits of architectural innovation, which ultimately influenced and blended into the cultural fabric of America.
Today, you can explore the rooms, which blend artistic flair with unconventional design. The bathroom floor is crafted from aluminum sheets. Outside the properties, you’ll find stunning landscapes that house ancient petroglyphs.
28. Petrified Forest National Park
A must-visit destination on your Route 66 journey, Petrified Forest National Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The park showcases breathtaking natural formations, alongside rich paleontological and archaeological wonders. It’s a hidden gem, ready to be explored.
Near Holbrook, the park is filled with petrified wood. Visitors can observe these ancient remnants up close along winding trails, where the transformation of wood into solid quartz is displayed, highlighted by striking manganese and iron hues. Scenic overlooks along the way offer stunning views of the Painted Desert, which stretches across the national park.
Puerco Pueblo stands as one of the notable human landmarks, a 100-room settlement once inhabited by the Ancestral Puebloan people more than six centuries ago. The site also features ancient petroglyphs dating back hundreds of years.
27. Biosphere 2
While exploring Arizona, you can journey across the globe at Biosphere 2. This unique destination offers an immersive encounter with Earth’s diverse rainforests, showcasing the wonders of the natural world.
Perfect for all ages, guests can slip into spacesuits and discover the facility as though they were venturing into an alien planet.
Biosphere 2 features detailed recreations of three rainforests, along with arctic and desert landscapes. Its intricate design makes it a hub not just for visitors but also for scientific study, with organizations like NASA conducting research there.
While visiting Biosphere 2, you’ll discover how self-sustaining natural ecosystems function and how these principles can be applied to support both wildlife and human well-being.
26. Hit the slopes in Flagstaff
Arizona’s most celebrated features often highlight the striking allure of its arid landscape. Yet as you venture further, the towering summits piercing the sky come into view. Among these, you’ll find snow-covered peaks, some offering opportunities for skiing.
Near Flagstaff, the Arizona Snowball attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the country. With an annual snowfall averaging 260 inches and a vertical drop exceeding 2,300 feet, it stands as Arizona’s premier ski destination. The resort caters equally to novices and seasoned professionals, offering something for every skill level.
Although the season typically begins in November and December, the finest conditions arrive during late winter and early spring. Add to that the stunning clear-sky days that highlight Arizona’s boundless natural charm.
For those seeking alternatives, Elk Ridge Ski Area is another choice, located just 45 minutes from Flagstaff. It offers a more affordable option and features tubing as well.
25. Lake Powell
Surrounded by towering red rock cliffs and massive formations, Lake Powell’s 2,000 miles of shoreline offer a desert oasis. This artificial lake is the epitome of scenic beauty and serves as an ideal destination for thrill-seekers.
During the scorching summer season, families head to the shores of the lake for a cool swim beneath the blazing desert sky. Boats of all kinds traverse the water, some gliding leisurely while others zip across at high speeds. Stand-up paddleboards and kayaks line the coast, highlighting the vibrant energy that makes Lake Powell such an incredible destination.
Enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars while glamping by the lakeshore. For an even more unique experience, spend the night floating on the water in a houseboat.
24. Heard Museum, located in Phoenix
In an area abundant with both living and historical Native American heritage, the Heard Museum stands out. Established nearly a century ago, it showcases the narratives of Native American communities through firsthand accounts.
The displays guide you on a vivid voyage from modern times to ancient centuries. You’ll discover not only the past but also the transformation of culture and artistry. This is highlighted by the contrasts among tribes, revealing the captivating intricacies within.
This experience comes together to create one of the finest Native American museums in the United States, offering a deeper understanding by the time you leave compared to when you arrived.
23. Flintstone’s Bedrock City, the iconic prehistoric-themed amusement park inspired by The Flintstones.
Travelers driving along the straight, uneventful highway in Valle, Arizona will spot a striking sign. “Yabba-Dabba-Doo,” it declares, instantly grabbing your focus and transporting you straight to the memories of your childhood home.
This sign indicates the entrance to Flintstone’s Bedrock City, a set of structures designed with that iconic prehistoric style. Modeled after the beloved TV town, it offers visitors an opportunity to experience the Flintstones’ world firsthand. Guests can explore Fred and Wilma’s home, visit the vintage schoolhouse, stop by the courthouse, and even take a seat in the legendary stone-age vehicle.
At Raptor Ranch, you have the opportunity to enhance your visit by engaging in multiple interactions with birds of prey, including raptors, hawks, and eagles.
22. Jerome
Once a deserted mining outpost and the epitome of a ghost town, Jerome is now experiencing a revival. Perched at 5,000 feet, the town overlooks a stunning desert valley where far-off snowy peaks contrast with the intense heat. Today, Jerome blends lively tourist attractions with rich historical charm.
Time begins at Jerome State Historic Park, where the Douglas Mansion stands. This elegant mansion witnessed the town’s rise, fall, and current revival. Nearby vineyards also provide delightful opportunities for wine tasting.
A visit to Jerome wouldn’t be whole without a bit of ghost hunting, each encounter showcasing the wide spectrum of the paranormal that “lingers” in this once-deserted town.
21. Walnut Canyon National Monument
Near Flagstaff, Walnut Canyon National Monument stands as a lasting testament to the Sinagua people. This ancient community thrived within the canyon’s rocky walls for centuries until the 1200s.
Sculpted by Walnut Creek, the canyon rises 600 feet high and can be discovered via the Rim Trail. This half-hour round-trip hike leads to breathtaking viewpoints, offering glimpses of the water winding through the gorge before joining the Little Colorado River.
To experience the Puebloan dwellings from a closer perspective, take the 1-mile Island Trail, featuring educational plaques along the way. Be aware that the hike involves approximately 200 steps.
20. Mission San Xavier del Bac
Amid a landscape of scorched sandstone and resilient cacti, the Mission San Xavier del Bac emerges from the valley like a vision of deliverance. Often called the White Dove of the Desert, the gleaming white mission stands on the San Xavier Indian Reservation.
Located within the Tohono O’odham Nation, this mission stands as one of Arizona’s most historic European structures. Its origins date back to 1797, and visitors have the opportunity to explore its rich past through complimentary guided tours.
The architecture is undeniably striking. Twin towers emerge from the mission, shimmering beneath the relentless sun. The exterior showcases elaborate carvings, reliefs, and sculpted figures.
19. The Surge
A visit to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument isn’t complete without experiencing the Wave. Much like the dreamy, flowing hues of Antelope Canyon, the Wave offers a surreal and mesmerizing spectacle.
Securing entry to this destination is the real challenge. Travelers must enter a lottery that restricts availability. Those who win the draw must then trek 7 miles to reach the renowned site. Yet for those who make the journey, it promises a remarkable adventure where your camera will be an indispensable companion.
Thousands of sleek curves spiral across the crimson stone, evoking the illusion of frozen waves crashing along the shoreline. Combine this with the vibrant hues of the desert, and the scene comes to life.
18. Titan Missile Museum, Sahuarita
In Sahuarita, the Titan Missile Museum was established in the early 1980s, not long after the missiles were decommissioned. The museum maintains the facility, offering visitors exclusive glimpses into a location that held significant importance during the Cold War.
For two decades, the Titan II Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles remained on high alert. Discover the history of this period and the development of these missiles not only at the museum but also by visiting the actual silos.
Guided tours are strongly advised due to the restricted number of spots offering complete access. Visitors can explore the underground launch control center and experience firsthand the daily lives of those who resided on-site.
17. The London Bridge situated in Lake Havasu
Nestled beside the palm-fringed coastline of Lake Havasu is one of Arizona’s most distinctive landmarks. This is where the London Bridge stands, originally constructed in 1831. Surprisingly, this bridge was indeed built in the city of London. It’s probably not what you’d expect to find on your Arizona checklist.
During the mid-1900s, the arched bridge started sinking into the River Thames. Enter businessman Robert McCulloch, who gave it a fresh start.
Stretching from the gloom of London to the arid expanse of the Mojave Desert, the bridge commands attention. Yet its backstory is every bit as intriguing as its unconventional setting. Walking across the bridge reveals pockmarks from German gunfire and remnants of WWII-era graffiti etched into its surface.
16. Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona
While discovering Sedona’s striking red rock formations, set aside moments for a few enriching cultural encounters. Beyond the region’s excellent wineries and charming, offbeat towns, include a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Seamlessly blending with the natural landscape, the breathtaking chapel rises majestically over the Verde Valley.
Constructed in the 1950s, the expansive stained glass window mirrors the lively natural environment around it. The sandstone hues and architectural style aim to honor Sedona’s inherent beauty rather than enhance it.
A 1.3-mile trail begins at the chapel’s parking lot, leading you uphill for stunning vistas of the nearby buttes. A brief walk also takes you to the chapel’s viewing platform.
15. Meteor Crater
Around 50,000 years ago, an iron-rich asteroid collided with the ground in northern Arizona, obliterating a massive area upon impact. Today, the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark (sometimes referred to as the Barringer Meteor Crater) spans nearly a mile in width and reaches a depth of 570 feet.
Standing at the rim of the crater, it’s difficult to comprehend its immense depth. The sheer power needed to displace such an enormous volume of earth is almost unimaginable. Yet this is typical of Arizona, where the awe-inspiring wonders of nature are vividly showcased for all to see.
After exploring the crater, make time to visit the Interactive Discovery Center, where the theater and displays delve into the formation of the crater.
14. Tombstone
Southeast of Tucson lies Tombstone, a famous Wild West town and designated National Historic Landmark. The spirit of the past lingers here, much like the drifting tumbleweeds, inviting visitors to journey back in time and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of an authentic frontier settlement.
Tombstone stands as one of the most well-preserved Wild West towns dating back to the late 19th century, rich with historical significance. It was here, along its arid streets in 1881, that the infamous O.K. Corral shootout unfolded, cementing its legendary status.
Step through the weathered double doors of a historic saloon, thump your mug onto the counter, and step into the boots of a frontier rogue. Later, wander the vintage storefronts and witness a showdown straight out of the Old West.
13. Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix
One of Arizona’s top attractions is discovering its desert landscapes. The stark, dry terrain holds a unique beauty in its rugged emptiness. Yet if the allure of a solitary, barren desert hasn’t captivated you, Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden will surely change that.
The garden boasts the most diverse array of desert plants in the United States (more than 50,000 distinct species), offering an unmatched immersion into arid landscapes. Its charming pathways guide visitors through different desert environments, each zone meticulously organized like an exhibit in a top-tier museum.
12. Monument Valley
The moment you enter Monument Valley for the initial time, a faint guitar strum echoes in the back of your mind. You recognize it—the same melody that scores countless 20th century Westerns. It’s fitting, really, because the breathtaking scenery of Monument Valley served as the quintessential setting for those iconic films.
The gleaming black highway stretches ahead, with the vast orange desert expanse unfolding on either side. Flecks of sagebrush green sway in the breeze, yet they pale beside the majestic red rock formations that rise defiantly, their enduring forms shaped by centuries of unrelenting erosion.
To experience the most stunning views, venture into the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and take the 17-mile one-way dirt road loop.
11. Canyon de Chelly
A national monument, Canyon de Chelly showcases ancient pueblo cliff dwellings nestled among stunning red rock formations. These structures, built approximately 1,000 years ago on Navajo tribal lands, stand as an impressive testament to early engineering skill.
The primary canyon in the region features the White House Ruins. Constructed approximately in 1050 AD, the cliff hosts more than 100 pueblos positioned slightly inland from the edge. It’s easy to envision the breathtaking scenery they once enjoyed while gazing across the terrain.
The scenic drives in Canyon de Chelly National Monument offer stunning vistas. For a more intimate experience, take the trail leading to the White House Overlook.
Ancient remnants such as the Mummy Cave in Canyon del Muerto have yielded authentic mummies among their discoveries.
10. Take a Scenic Journey Along Route 66
For nearly a century, Route 66, known as the Main Street of America, has fascinated both adventurers and motorists. Stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, the Mother Road symbolized the fulfillment of America’s westward growth. For you, the longest stretch of this iconic highway runs through Arizona.
Route 66 has transformed significantly since its peak years. Today, major highways have nearly replaced it as a practical travel route. Yet, those who venture along it will still discover eccentric towns and a vibrant display of neon lights.
With every town that emerges in the distance, you feel a wave of nostalgia—vibrant motels, quirky shops, and corner bars. Soon enough, they vanish once more into the vast desert plains and drifting tumbleweeds.
Travelers aiming to fully experience the trip should obtain a Route 66 Passport.
9. The Hoover Dam
By 1935, the last details were completed on one of the planet’s most extraordinary engineering feats. Blocking the Colorado River certainly carried significant consequences. Yet the vision of the Hoover Dam, towering at 726 feet tall and stretching 1,244 feet across, remains awe-inspiring.
Towering above the rugged, rust-colored terrain, the pale dam wall stands firm, restraining the vast expanse of Lake Mead’s vibrant blue waters. Guests begin their journey by crossing the massive bridge spanning the canyon. Once the vehicle is parked, follow the walkway that leads you across the dam’s crest.
Standing between two years of Colorado River water on one side and a sheer 90-degree plunge on the other, the moment is both a breathtaking tribute to nature’s power and a test of keeping your pulse in check.
8. Saguaro National Park
Nestled near one of the country’s biggest metropolitan regions, Saguaro National Park remains an underrated treasure. Arizona offers endless opportunities for adventure, as you might expect. Yet before journeying elsewhere, take time to discover the realm of towering saguaro cacti.
The desert’s essence is captured in its safeguarded flora. These plants emerge like outstretched hands from the crimson earth, poised to endure the unforgiving conditions of the arid landscape. Though the cacti may appear sharp and unyielding, their beauty is undeniable.
The park’s eastern and western trails offer an up-close experience, featuring Saguaro cacti that reach heights of 50 feet and have thrived for more than two centuries.
7. Montezuma Castle
Discover the ancient homes of the Sinagua people at Montezuma Castle in Arizona. This remarkable structure is etched into the prehistoric cliffside, showcasing a remarkable lifestyle adapted to the unforgiving desert environment.
Built in the middle of the 12th century, Montezuma Castle achieved its peak around 200 years after its construction. Spacious chambers and formal rooms accommodated as many as 50 individuals, while the broader community resided at the lower levels.
Although entry into the castle itself is no longer permitted, the national monument offers insights into the area’s past, including details about the castle’s construction and the connection between the Sinagua and pre-Columbian indigenous communities.
6. Pima Air and Space Museum, located in Tucson
Featuring more than 400 aircraft and spacecraft in its collection, the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson offers a perfect opportunity to reconnect with your childhood wonder. Located in Tucson, it stands as one of the world’s biggest privately owned aerospace museums.
Spacecraft and missiles are positioned among classic and contemporary airplanes, offering an immersive experience that will inspire you to strap on a pair of wings and soar. Among the standout exhibits at Pima Air and Space are cutting-edge commercial jets that highlight the evolution of air travel. Visitors can also explore decommissioned presidential aircraft, the legendary Wright Flyer, and military machines such as the SR-71 Blackbird.
5. Havasu Falls
Nestled within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, the breathtaking Havasu Falls cascades 100 feet into vibrant turquoise pools, framed by striking red sandstone cliffs. The idyllic valley of Havasu rewards those who journey to witness its natural splendor.
Despite their proximity to the Grand Canyon, the falls lie outside the national park’s boundaries. However, adventurers who take on the demanding 20-mile round-trip hike with an elevation shift of 2,500 feet will find the effort richly worthwhile.
Havasu Falls has formed natural rock terraces and vibrant blue pools that gradually cascade into Havasu Creek before merging with the Colorado River. Every guest is required to secure an advance reservation and spend at least one night, encouraging even the most eager adventurer to unwind, take it easy, and soak in the mesmerizing landscape.
4. Antelope Canyon
With its breathtaking slot canyon that seems plucked from a surreal fantasy, Antelope Canyon is truly one of a kind. Amid Arizona’s stunning natural wonders, Antelope Canyon distinguishes itself through its smooth sandy floor winding between the undulating sandstone walls.
While you explore, rays of light pierce the canyon’s roof, creating a kaleidoscopic glow on the iron-rich stone. The rock’s streaks, resembling brushstrokes, play with shadows and brightness in a dynamic display. This interplay constantly shifts based on your position.
Antelope Canyon is located in the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park. Booking a guided tour is recommended to capture the most stunning photographs.
3. Horseshoe Bend
You’ve arrived at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and your visit isn’t complete without hiking the trail to witness Horseshoe Bend. The shimmering Colorado River curves nearly full circle through the canyon below, creating what many consider Arizona’s most stunning photograph.
A trail designed for ADA accessibility leads visitors from the starting point half a mile to the rim of the canyon. At the edge, the breathtaking 1,000-foot descent and the striking contrast of blues and greens against the expansive red landscape will leave you in awe.
The ideal time to visit the Bend is during sunset, as the west-oriented horseshoe shape perfectly catches the fading daylight. For optimal views, make sure to get there ahead of the crowd.
For an even better experience, skip the crowds and arrive at dawn to witness Horseshoe Bend stirring from its morning rest.
2. The Iconic Red Rock Formations of Sedona
About two hours north of Phoenix, Sedona’s Red Rocks rise early. By the time you’re brewing your morning coffee, they’re already glowing, bathed in the first light of dawn.
The array of monoliths, bluffs, and buttes is truly striking. Combined with Native American heritage, a hint of the Wild West, and plenty of tourist attractions, Sedona is a must-visit destination.
Having your own vehicle is ideal for discovering this area at your own pace. The scenery along the roads is stunning, and the paths branching off the pavement are so inviting that you’ll appreciate the freedom to plan your own route.
To avoid the summer rush, visit during winter when the red rocks are dusted with snow.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
While the Great Smoky Mountains National Park ranks among the most visited in the United States, few landmarks rival the iconic status of Arizona’s Grand Canyon. Shaped by tectonic forces and sculpted over millennia by the Colorado River, this colossal chasm stands as a breathtaking testament to nature’s artistry, crafted over countless ages.
The Grand Canyon stretches more than 270 miles in length and reaches widths of up to 18 miles. Its deepest sections feature cliffs that plummet over 5000 feet to the Colorado River at the base. The park is split into two primary regions: the isolated North Rim and the easier-to-reach South Rim.
Stretching 13 miles, the Rim Trail follows the canyon’s edge, offering breathtaking vistas. A shuttle service runs along the rim, providing access to prime viewpoints.
Yes, hiking the Bright Angel Trail 9.9 miles to the canyon floor is an option. However, descending is a choice, but climbing back out is unavoidable.
