Earlier than we dig into it, I’ve a disclaimer: I like the Grand Canyon. Sure, it’s a vacationer hotspot and that’s as a result of it’s really and unforgettably attractive.
Flying over the Grand Canyon was a bucket checklist expertise for me. Removed from overrated, it’s a type of locations you merely should go to. Likewise, Phoenix is one other worthwhile fixture on most Arizona journey itineraries.
These are two superb spots that you simply already know. Now, with that out of the way in which, let’s speak about all the different locations in Arizona that you simply’re going to like.
From underrated cities to hidden pure wonders, listed here are the highest ten locations to go to in Arizona (that aren’t the Grand Canyon).
Sedona
Featured on my checklist of important spots on any Southwest USA highway journey, Sedona is like nowhere else you’ve ever been earlier than. A geological wonderland and mecca for spiritualism, Sedona has a magical ambiance.
Whether or not you wish to hike the jaw-droppingly stunning terrain or do yoga on a vortex of non secular power, that is the place to go.
Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend / Antelope Canyon
Probably some of the photographed locations in Arizona, Antelope Canyon is much more gorgeous in particular person. It’s a necessary go to and solely seven miles from the breathtaking lookout level that’s Horseshoe Bend.
Whether or not you wish to fly overhead, hike the paths, or sail by, you’ll wish to guide upfront. Make your reservation online then begin packing. It will get colder than you may count on once you’re out of the solar so convey layers and plan to bundle up.
Scottsdale
Enjoyable reality: There are extra spas per capita in Scottsdale than wherever else within the US. Lounge poolside at one among many lux resorts, get a pampering therapy, then hit the city for top-notching nightlife.
Want a minute to disconnect? Go on a horseback experience via the cactus-studded desert then hike the McDowell Mountains.
Tombstone
Mud off these cowboy boots and pull up a stool on the O.Okay. Corral. Play a sport of poker or two then mosey outdoors to observe a shootout. Peak via the bullet holes within the previous Hen Cage Theatre, a one-time brothel. If you’re right here, you’re miles from the peculiar.
Exploring the historic streets and lovingly restored buildings, you’ll really feel such as you’ve stepped again in time on this notorious Previous West hang-out.
Monument Valley
You’ll have by no means been to Monument Valley however you’ve positively seen the enduring mesas and buttes that create the pink rock panorama. Proper on the border of Arizona and Utah, you’ll really feel such as you’re exploring one other planet.
In the event you’re a movie and TV buff, you should definitely monitor down the filming places for well-known scenes from Forrest Gump, 2001: A House Odyssey, Westword, Stagecoach, and different classics.
Useful Tip:
Havasu Falls
Surrounded by the Grand Canyon, Havasupai Indian Reservation is one of the United States’ most remote reservations. At the center of it, you’ll find the aquamarine waters of Havasu Creek and the famous falls.
If you have time, plan at least one night of camping here. Do note, however, you need to have a permit to stay over. Visit the Havasupai Reservations site to get arrange earlier than you go.
Useful Tip:
Prescott
A refuge from the scorching summer season warmth of Phoenix, Prescott has an enchanting historical past that’s nicely value exploring. With greater than 800 native Victorian houses making their manner onto the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations, this metropolis is continuous motion for structure lovers.
On the well-known Whiskey Row, you possibly can knock again a drink or two within the Gold Rush period saloons. If you’re feeling hydrated, discover the works of native artists within the galleries then seize your self one thing candy on the retro sweet retailers.
Route 66: Kingman & Seligman
Who doesn’t have the world-famous Route 66 on their bucket checklist? In the event you don’t have time to cowl the complete 150 miles of the historic highway, hit the world between Kingman and Seligman. The 87 miles between the 2 cities is a chunk an unmissable piece of Americana.
Seligman is broadly thought of to be the unique birthplace of Route 66. Jampacked with diners and memento retailers, this city will set the stage on your journey.
If you lastly make it to your vacation spot, you’ll be greeted by all the kitsch wonders that you simply’re dreaming of. Plan on filling up on root beer floats and greasy grub at Mr. D’z Diner then wander the principle avenue.
The Ghost Town of Jerome
Once a mining town, Jerome is now better known for its ghosts than the spoils of the mountainside. Book a room in the most haunted hotel in Arizona for an unforgettable evening of hiding beneath the covers.
When the solar lastly rises, make your manner right down to the Sliding Jail, a badly constructed jail that has slid an unbelievable 2,500 toes from the unique patch of clay that it was constructed on.
Quirky points of interest apart, you’ll additionally discover attractive surroundings across the Jerome State Historic Park and the encircling valley.
Tucson
With 350 days of sunshine yearly and extra chook species than wherever else on earth, Tuscon is one among Arizona’s most underrated spots.
Tucson is an ideal base for exploring the fascinating pure wonders of the desert.
Simply beside the Saguaro Nationwide Park’s Crimson Hills Customer Middle, you’ll discover the 98-acre zoo in Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Plan a day to discover the pure historical past of this fascinating panorama.
If you’re able to get again into city, go to the adobe coronary heart of town at El Presidio Historic District for a glance again in time (and distinctive locals eats!).
The solar in Arizona is INTENSE. Pack your SPF, sun shades, and unfastened light-weight garments. And, take a look at my favourite journey hats assortment for the final word in shady safety.
