Best Sightseeing in Arizona
If you have never been to Arizona, you are in for a treat. The Grand Canyon and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument are two of the most popular places for sightseeing in Arizona. If you’d rather explore a less visited canyon, try visiting Canyon de Chelly. Both are stunning and worth visiting for different reasons. Read on to learn more about these attractions and more! Let us help you plan the perfect sightseeing trip in Arizona!
Saguaro National Park
If you’re planning a vacation to Arizona, you’ll want to see Saguaro National Park, the state’s first national park. This region is known for its saguaro cacti, which are the most iconic plants in the American West. Located in southern Arizona, Saguaro National Park is comprised of rugged mountain ranges and desert flats.
Saguaro National Park is home to Arizona’s tallest and oldest saguaros. While it’s not the largest park in the state, it has the greatest concentration of saguaros. Hiking trails abound here. You can spend as much as a day exploring this park. Loop roads in the park cover five to six miles and have moderate elevation gains.
Located near Tucson, Saguaro National Park is comprised of two districts – the East and West districts. The east portion contains the highest concentration of saguaros and the west side is the lowest portion. Both areas are accessible by car, and the roads are well maintained. It’s not necessary to rent a 4WD vehicle or have special tires to drive in the park.
Saguaro National Park is an excellent destination for stargazers. Just thirty miles from Tucson, the park features many different types of cactus. The park’s many southwestern plants include cholla, prickly pear, and cholla. You can find cell phone service and wifi at the visitor center. While there is limited cell service in the park, you can still enjoy the landscape and take photos.
If you’re looking for hiking opportunities in Saguaro National Park, consider joining a hike or backpacking trip. There are hundreds of miles of trails, ranging from short walks to multi-day backpacking adventures. A two-mile round-trip trail to Wasson Peak offers panoramic views of Tucson, a picnic area, and the surrounding mountains. For more information on hiking in Saguaro National Park, check out the National Park Service website.
The Signal Hill area of Saguaro National Park is a prime spot for wildflower viewing. This area features petroglyphs dating back to the Hohokam people, who lived in southern Arizona between 450 and 1450AD. Although the meaning of these ancient artifacts has largely faded with time, these petroglyphs are an interesting look into the human history of the Saguaros.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
In extreme southern Arizona, you can find the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, a U.S. national monument and UNESCO biosphere reserve. This region shares its border with Sonora, Mexico. The Organ Pipe Cactus is found nowhere else in the United States, and is the only place where senita and organ pipe cacti grow wild.
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway from the crowded metropolis, you can head to Organ Pipe National Monument, which receives fewer tourists than Saguaro National Park. If you’ve never seen a saguaro plant, Organ Pipe is the place for you. A scenic drive through the creosote flats and hiking trails in the area is a meditative experience that’s particularly rejuvenating for city dwellers.
For your safety, make sure to follow all safety tips for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Follow the national park’s instructions and avoid hiking in midday. In case of emergencies, stay in one place and signal for help, preferably with a mirror. Since most visitor injuries in Organ Pipe are caused by car accidents, drive within the speed limit. And remember to watch for animals along the shoulders of the road.
The Organ Pipe Cactus is a unique plant found in the Sonoran Desert. This plant grows up to 150 years and blooms in May and June. The flowers open at night. During the spring and summer months, you can experience a wide variety of activities. You can hike, walk, or bike through this unique landscape. There are several options for hiking, from leisurely to challenging. For the more adventurous, you can opt to camp in the park and explore the local wildlife.
If you’re a nature lover, you can visit the National Monument to admire the beautiful cacti. This is a place to see the desert wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is located in the Southwest corner of Arizona, near Puerto Penasco. The monument is well worth the visit, and the landscape is beautiful at any time of the year.
Grand Canyon National Park
If you’re visiting Arizona, the top place to see the spectacular Grand Canyon is in the state’s national parks. Located in the state of Arizona, this park contains much of the massive canyon and features layered bands of red rock that reveal millions of years of geological history. Popular viewpoints include Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio, Desert View Watchtower, and Lipan Point. If you’re going to take in the breathtaking canyon, the most popular time to visit is at sunrise or sunset.
For an even more dramatic view, take a helicopter tour of the canyon. The Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour departs from the Tusayan airport, less than ten minutes from the South Entrance of the park. This helicopter tour will take you over the Dragon Corridor, the widest part of the canyon, and several other key attractions. Guests of this tour will have a unique perspective on the majesty of the Grand Canyon.
While touring the park, be sure to look for wildlife. The Grand Canyon is home to a large number of species, including the endangered black – aka ‘black’ – squirrel. These animals are not aggressive but they may bite you if you try to feed them. If you encounter one of these animals, be prepared to move on to the next destination. While you’re at it, be sure to check out the Kolb Gallery, which is housed in a historic Victorian home that is close to the start of the Bright Angel Trail.
There are a few other must-see places in the Grand Canyon that aren’t just in the park. First, the Mary Jane Colter Building features the Lookout Studio, which is a popular viewing platform. The two viewing decks offer a spectacular vantage point from which to enjoy the canyon from the inside. A photo opportunity like this is hard to match. The Park also has other attractions, including a gift shop.
Winter is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon, because the weather is milder, but it can be cold at night. During winter, temperatures are lower and there may even be snow. If you visit during this time, be sure to check the weather conditions before you go. You may want to bring some warm clothing since the canyon can get quite snowy during the winter months. Also, the Grand Canyon is cold at night, so dress appropriately!
Lake Powell
If you’re looking for the best Arizona vacation spots, you’ve come to the right place. Lake Powell is an artificial reservoir on the Colorado River, located in Arizona and Utah. Two million people visit Lake Powell every year, and there’s plenty of reason to love it! From the spectacular views to the abundant wildlife, Lake Powell has something to offer everyone. Read on to learn more about this great place to visit! You’ll be amazed by all that you can see, from eagles to vultures.
The largest bay of Lake Powell is Padre Bay, a seven-mile-long stretch of water that offers back-shots and scenic views of monuments. Kayaking along the Kane Wash Canyon is another option. Another popular spot is the Escalante River Arm, which offers three-roof Anasazi ruins, caves, petroglyphs, and the Grand Staircase formation.
Another unique activity to enjoy in Lake Powell is boating. You can rent jet skis at the shore and explore the lake from a different perspective. If you’re with children, this is an especially fun activity. The views of the canyon are stunning, and the sheer red cliffs rising to heaven make for a surreal backdrop. If you want to have a relaxing and memorable experience, Lake Powell should be on your bucket list.
If you’re interested in boating, you’ll be happy to know that Lake Powell has two marinas on its shores. While the Wahweap Marina is the most active, there are several other marinas as well. Aside from the boating excursions, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and sailboat rentals. You can also hire a canoe or sailboat and take an unforgettable Arizona vacation!
Houseboating on Lake Powell is a family favorite for generations. Houseboats have grown in size and amenities and can range from a simple 46-ft economy boat to an extravagant 75-ft Excursion. It is a great way to explore the lake, and a houseboat rental is a great option for a family vacation. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as the 2021 season sold out fast. Luckily, the 2022 season is expected to be about the same price.
Things to Do in Arizona
There are many different things to do in Arizona, including a visit to the famous Hoover Dam. The National Parks in the state are also worth checking out, including the Petrified Forest National Monument and the Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Other attractions include the Ancient landscape and waterfalls. No matter what your interests are, you’re bound to find something to keep you busy in the Grand Canyon State. And, with the right travel itinerary, you can see all of it without breaking your budget!
Petrified Forest National Park
While in Arizona, you must see the petrified forest! Petrified forest is an area of rock formations that are deposited millions of years ago. This area is also home to the famous Painted Desert. Located in the southwestern part of Arizona, it has several attractions. One of these attractions is the Painted Desert Inn. Originally called the Stone Treehouse, it is now a national historic landmark.
The Agate Bridge is another attraction in the park. During the early 1900s, this rock formation was a popular attraction. In 1903, masonry pillars were built beneath it, and then replaced by concrete beams in 1917. The chasm is spanned by a huge log, measuring 100 feet long and four feet across at the base. The rock formation rises sixteen feet above the canyon floor, making it one of the largest petrified structures in the world. In the late 1800s, Paleobotanist Lester Ward declared the Agate Bridge the “most famous single petrified wood in the world.”
Among the many activities available in the Petrified Forest, hiking is an excellent option. Located in Arizona, the park has maintained trails and archeology. Hiking, biking, or horseback riding are great options. You can also take part in the Agate House and the Crystal Forest. You can combine these activities with a visit to the museum. This way, you’ll be able to experience all that the park has to offer in one place.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
The Canyon de Chelly National Monument is an enormous park located in northeastern Arizona. The park is on Navajo tribal land and features towering sandstone cliffs and a spider rock spire. You can also see prehistoric rock art at White House Ruins and Mummy Cave, ruins of ancient Pueblo villages. While in Arizona, be sure to make time to explore these historical sites.
The Canyon de Chelly National Monument is owned by the Navajo Tribal Trust, which is cooperatively managed by the park service. There are 40 Navajo families living in the area. The park is free to visit, but access to the canyon floor is limited. Visiting the canyon floor requires a park ranger or an authorized Navajo guide. The White House Ruin Trail is an exception to this rule.
Before the construction of these cliff dwellings, the San Juan Basin tribe lived in present-day New Mexico and Colorado. They brought their architecture models and artistic styles with them when they moved to this part of the country. These people made baskets and kivas for shelter and stored food. Some still remain. Visiting the Canyon de Chelly National Monument is a truly unique experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience history firsthand.
The Canyon de Chelly National Monument is located on the Navajo Indian reservation 379 kilometers northwest of Albuquerque. The park contains many archaeological ruins that date back thousands of years. The canyon is home to carved images, rock art, ancient campsites, and more. The Navajo have been occupying the area for more than 300 years. You can visit the canyon at any time and take a tour to explore the ruins.
Ancient landscape
Whether you’re fascinated by geology or just love Arizona, you’ll find the latest exhibition at the Museum of Northern Arizona a fascinating experience. Ancient landscapes of the Colorado Plateau, a collection of maps by world-renowned geologist Dr. Ron Blakey, will help you understand this region’s history and past. This exhibit is sure to leave you spellbound. Located on the Colorado Plateau, this exhibit explores the ancient environments of the area.
The Petrified Forest National Park is a 150-mile section of badlands that was formed over 225 million years ago. Once a humid subtropical land, the striated formations in the Petrified Forest National Park are the result of massive erosion and wind. Once alive, these fossilized trees and other plant remains are evident in the park. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The landscape is a remarkable reminder of Earth’s geologic history.
Waterfalls
While many people spend the summers basking in the heat, summer is also the perfect time to visit a waterfall. Arizona is home to some of the country’s most spectacular waterfalls. These stunning natural wonders vary in size, surrounding, and difficulty of access. Some waterfalls are easy to reach and can be enjoyed on short treks; others are more difficult and may require advance reservations. If you have ever visited a waterfall in Arizona, you will want to keep these tips in mind.
The Sabino Canyon waterfall is among the most impressive. It cascades over a 70-foot cliff and forms a pool at the base. You can hike to the top of the waterfall or take the trail to the bottom, which is two miles long. Wear sturdy shoes and wear a jacket if you plan on hiking the trail. If you aren’t a fan of waterfalls, there are plenty of pools to jump in below.
If you’re looking for a great family adventure, you should try exploring waterfalls in Arizona. They’re ideal for small children, dogs, and even the whole family. Best of all, they take just an afternoon to explore, allowing you more time to enjoy the sunshine and cool water. In addition to being beautiful, waterfalls in Arizona are often dog-friendly. You can even go hiking with your dog to the falls if your pet is well-behaved.
Museums
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix features interactive exhibits that promote critical thinking skills and early learning. There are many fun ways to learn about robots. Various exhibits change regularly and are designed to promote a love of learning. The museum’s gift shop is excellent. The museum is east of downtown Phoenix. The museum contains several dozen different aircraft, including a North American P-51D Mustang, Hughes OH-6A Cayuse, and Stinson L-5E Sentinel.
If you are looking for some history, the state’s state museums are a great place to start. The Arizona Museum of Natural History features sections devoted to the 1500s Spanish conquistadors. You can also find exhibits about the wild west and gold mining. In addition to artifacts, you can visit a jail cell in the 1800s. It’s a great way to learn about the state’s past while enjoying the art of the southwest.
The list of Arizona museums includes nonprofit organizations, government entities, and private companies. The museums are dedicated to caring for art, scientific, and historical objects. A museum is not included if it exists only online. There are also public art galleries and state, local, and national parks that feature visitor centers. If you’re looking for a unique experience, Arizona has something for you. There’s no better way to experience the state’s history than to explore Arizona’s museums!
Day tours
For those who love to see the desert in its purest form, Arizona is the place to be. From ancient ghost towns to underground caves, this state offers the perfect setting for a day tour. From Phoenix, the most popular cities for day tours are Tucson and Sedona. To see them all, you’ll need to book in advance. Read on to find out the best things to do in Arizona on a day trip.
Visit the Hopi Culture: Incorporated into the state’s state flag, the Hopi people were the first to use fire for cooking. This ancient way of life is still practiced today. In fact, more than half of the population of Arizona is from Native American backgrounds. The Sinaguas inhabited this desert for thousands of years and were some of the most advanced and inventive people in North America. They were also some of the first Europeans to settle in the region.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Phoenix, head to Sedona. Known for its gorgeous red-rock scenery and artisan shops, Sedona is a beautiful destination for day trips. The town is also accessible by car, and day trips from Scottsdale and Phoenix are available. While you’re there, be sure to stop for a wine tasting. There are plenty of wineries in the area, so you’ll be sure to find something that appeals to you.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Arizona
If you want to visit some of the most breathtaking locations in the country, here are a few places you should not miss. These include Havasu Falls, Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, Yuma, and the Lost Dutchman State Park. Read on to find out what to do in these incredible locations. Then, start planning your trip! Listed below are some great ideas for day trips to Arizona. Enjoy! And don’t forget to pack your camera!
Havasu Falls
If you are looking for a great place to go on your next trip to the Grand Canyon, then consider checking out Havasu Falls. This waterfall is a part of Havasupai tribal lands in the Grand Canyon. You may also want to visit the surrounding area to see the famous El Tovar. It’s a must-see for everyone in your family! In addition, you can visit Havasupai ruins and learn more about their culture and history.
While camping at Havasu Falls is popular, there is also a lodge in the village of Supai. You’ll have to bring your own camping equipment, as there is no restaurant or cafe nearby. If you plan to swim, however, you should wear water shoes, as they are waterproof and protect your toes. In addition, you’ll need to carry your own food and water. However, you can stay at Havasu Falls Lodge, located 2 miles from the waterfalls. It’s a small, rustic lodge with limited food options.
The trail to Havasu Falls begins at the Hualapai Hilltop, off Route 66. The trail is mostly downhill on the way in and uphill on the way out. The best time to hike is late fall or early spring. However, you can also go during the warmest months of March, October, and November. It’s recommended to take plenty of water when hiking at Havasu Falls, as the trail is very dry.
The waterfall is located in a remote part of Arizona, near the Grand Canyon. The trip takes about three hours from Flagstaff. If you’re flying, you’ll want to arrive in Phoenix, Las Vegas, or Flagstaff, because flying directly to Havasu Falls will cost more than driving. If you’d like to fly to Havasu Falls, you’ll need to make a reservation for a hotel near the base.
Vermillion Cliffs National Monument
Located along Highway 89, Vermillion Cliffs National Monument is the most scenic destination in the Southwest. The soaring cliffs tower over the surrounding land, and are an imposing sight. Its townsite is tucked away below the cliffs. Unlike the surrounding desert, the area has no paved roads, so driving here requires a high-clearance vehicle and a tour group. It is also best to check out the video below to learn more about this unique destination.
Located north of the Grand Canyon, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a striking sight. The colorful strata of the Chinle Formation make the landscape incredibly picturesque. The cliffs are about 30 miles long and rise to 2,000 feet. The surrounding area is flat and not developed, making for a wonderful day trip. You can also take the scenic Route 66, which winds its way through the House Rock Valley.
The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is situated in the north of the Grand Canyon, bordering both Arizona and Utah. The area has no service facilities and is best explored on foot. The most popular attraction here is Buckskin Gulch, which is surrounded by cliffs that reach up to 900 feet. If you’re looking for some great hiking trails, this is the place for you.
Another area of the park that you must see is the White Pocket, where no permit is required. The cliffs are lined with candy-striped layers of rock. There are many brain-like formations and bizarre cones amidst the white rock. You can hike through these rocks, or opt for a tour of this area. If you’re not comfortable driving, you can even rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle to visit this incredible park.
Lost Dutchman State Park
If you are looking for a unique place to go on a day trip, you may want to consider visiting Lost Dutchman State Park in Arizona. This 320-acre state park is located near the Superstition Mountains in central Arizona. You’ll find it on the Apache Trail State Route 88, just north of Apache Junction. You can get here by car, bus, or by taking an excursion on the Arizona Railway.
Near the Lost Dutchman State Park, the Siphon Draw Trail is named for the way it used to siphon water from the Superstition Mountain. It includes a discovery trail that ends at a polished slick rock waterfall. The trail is less than two miles long and passes through the Tonto National Forest and the Superstition Wilderness Area. If you are going to visit the park on a day trip, plan to have a picnic. You can also take a horseback tour.
The Lost Dutchman State Park is near Apache Junction, Arizona. This place offers a feeling of solitude and closeness to nature. It is also rich in history dating back thousands of years. The park is home to a Dutch prospector who struck a gold vein worth millions in the late nineteenth century, but died before he could cash in. Since that time, many fortune hunters have tried to find the mythical mine and have died in the process.
If you love nature and want to experience the Sonoran Desert close to Phoenix, you should visit Lost Dutchman State Park. It’s just forty miles east of Phoenix and offers a scenic view of the Superstition Mountains. There are easy hiking trails, picnic areas, and a campground. The campground is great for overnight stays, though primitive camping is not allowed on land bordering Apache Trail, which runs through Tonto National Forest.
Yuma
A city in southwest Arizona, Yuma is known for the history of the area. Its Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park is a relic of a 19th-century prison, with a guard tower and preserved cells. In addition to the prison, the city is home to a military warehouse and telegraph station from the early 1900s. A 1907 steam locomotive stands at Pivot Point Plaza to commemorate the Southern Pacific Railroad.
In 1851, the United States Army built Fort Yuma, which served as a supply base for the western United States. Later, the Army built a field known as Fly Field, which is now an academic center for military aviation. Yuma is also home to several other industries that provide many jobs to residents. Construction, manufacturing, finance, retail, and real estate are just a few of the many industries that are present in this city.
The largest age group in Yuma is the 20 to 29-year-olds, which makes up 41% of the entire population. The city has over 98,000 residents of working age, which is a large proportion compared to its larger sister city, Phoenix. This means that if you’re planning a vacation to Yuma, you can expect to find plenty of fun things to do and places to see. In addition, you can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, living legends, and a vibrant arts and culture scene.
The city has several campgrounds where you can camp during your stay. Gecko, Grays Well, and Buttercup are all popular choices. Besides camping, another popular activity in Yuma is exploring the surrounding area. You can visit the Castle Dome town, which was an important early mining town. The city’s streets were lined with adobe buildings, which is now a museum. During spring, the Yuma County Fair is held at the fairgrounds.
Tombstone
For a taste of the wild west, head to the town of Tombstone, places to visit in Arizona. This southeastern Arizona town boasts a historic courthouse, including a replica gallows. You can also experience a real-life cowboy gunfight in the outdoor O.K. Corral theater. It is also known to have ghosts who haunt the Bird Cage Theatre. And in the 1878 Boothill Cemetery, outlaws were buried.
For those who are not afraid of a little drinking, you can also take a break at a winery. Silver Strike Winery offers a relaxing break from the town. There is a tasting room and bar where you can sample a wide variety of wines. These wines are made from grapes that are aged on the property. The vineyard is also sustainable, so you won’t have to worry about the environment.
Another popular activity in Tombstone is attending a gunfight reenactment. The historic gunfight that took place here in 1881 is recreated right before your eyes. While you’re there, you can also visit the OK Corral Museum, which features a fine collection of artifacts and reenactments. Admission is only six dollars for adults and includes a reenactment.
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, consider a ghost town in the American West. Tombstone was originally famous for its silver mines, but today it has a wild west vibe that keeps visitors coming back for more. Its arcades look like they’re straight out of a western movie, and many people appear to be dressed as their favorite characters. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, the town of Tombstone offers a unique experience.
