From rust-coloured canyons and cacti-strewn deserts to lively college towns and cosmopolitan cities, Arizona is action-packed, to say the least. In addition to showstopping attractions like Grand Canyon National Park and Monument Valley, there are hidden gems galore in Arizona. Craft breweries, third-wave cafes and Southwest-style cuisine will tantalise your palate in the Grand Canyon State.
Things to do in Arizona
The sheer scale of Grand Canyon National Park will take your breath away. Over millions of years, the Colorado River has carved an enormous, narrow canyon into the plateau. The steepest sections of the canyon are more than 1,800 metres deep. You’ll find famous viewpoints and family-friendly hiking trails along the well-developed South Rim, while the North Rim is perfect if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a wild and remote experience.
Flagstaff is a free-spirited mountain town surrounded by ponderosa pine forests and a launchpad to Grand Canyon National Park. The famous Route 66 cuts through Downtown Flagstaff and is lined with cafes, diners and mom-and-pop stores. A good selection of craft breweries and hip cafes give the town an upbeat feel.
Discover a cacti-studded wonderland in Saguaro National Park. Hiking trails wind through the park and immerse you in the otherworldly landscapes of the Sonoran Desert. Guided horseback tours are a fun way to explore more remote areas of the park.
Tucson combines centuries of history and culture with laid-back Southwest charm. The fun-loving college town is set in a valley and framed by rugged mountains. Stroll around neighbourhoods filled with handsome historic buildings, browse quirky vintage stores and dine at trendy bars and restaurants.
Get up to speed on local flora, fauna and geology at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. It’s just west of Downtown Tucson and features outdoor enclosures with prairie dogs, wolves and mountain lions. Explore family-friendly trails and admire vivid landscapes in the art gallery.
Getting around Arizona
Excellent roads and highways make it easy to explore Arizona by car. Cities like Phoenix, Tucson and Flagstaff are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Buses, taxis and ride-share services are available in most major towns and cities. Key airports include Phoenix Sky Harbor International and Tucson International.