Planning an Arizona adventure? Beyond the iconic Grand Canyon, the state offers a wealth of experiences for all ages and abilities. This curated list highlights some of the best outdoor adventures, unique lodging, culinary delights, and cultural attractions, all easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. For those with RVs or campers, accommodation options are noted.
To simplify planning, destinations requiring advance permits like Havasu Falls and Antelope Canyon have been omitted. However, with sufficient planning, these are highly recommended additions to your itinerary.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
A natural wonder, the Grand Canyon likely tops your list. The canyon stretches across nearly the entire northern border of Arizona, featuring the North, East, and South Rims, plus Grand Canyon West on tribal land. The South Rim, most accessible from Phoenix, remains open year-round.
Consider camping or lodging for a few nights, exploring by bike, foot, or boat. For RV travelers, Trailer Village offers hookups with online reservations.
2. Saguaro National Park
The saguaro cactus, a recognizable symbol of Arizona, thrives in Saguaro National Park near Tucson. These giants can reach up to 18 meters. A sunrise hike is highly recommended.
Afterwards, visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to see the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. For lodging, a desert-chic inn borders Saguaro National Park West. Backcountry camping permits are available, but there is no vehicle or RV camping.
3. Canyon de Chelly National Monument
In Canyon de Chelly, people have lived for nearly 5,000 years, with Navajo families still present. The 84,000-acre monument reveals a rich history of human settlement dating back to the Ancient Puebloans. Visitors can drive the scenic rim routes or hike with an authorized Navajo guide. Camping is permitted, though hookups are not available.
4. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Located on the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley offers iconic views. Many classic Western films were shot here. Lodging options include The View Hotel and Goulding's, featuring a hotel and campground with RV accommodations. Enhance your visit with a guided horseback ride or hike.
5. Stay at an Arizona Dude Ranch
For a Western experience, stay at a dude ranch. Arizona boasts many options statewide. Enjoy cowboy cookouts, horseback riding, yoga, live entertainment, and guided hikes.
6. Explore Sedona
Sedona is known for its red-rock formations and pine forests. Known for energy vortexes, Sedona offers great hikes, mountain biking, and spas. Manzanita Campground is ideal for tents, while Rancho Sedona accommodates RVs.
7. Sample Local Wine
Arizona features three major grape-growing regions producing local wine. Tour wine trails for outdoor relaxation and views. Metro-area tasting rooms in Tucson or Phoenix offer local wine experiences closer to the city.
8. Chiricahua National Monument
Near Wilcox, a wine-growing region, Chiricahua National Monument displays hoodoos and natural rock arches, earning it the nicknames "Wonderland of Rocks" or "Land of Standing Up Rocks." Hiking and sightseeing are popular activities. Bonita Canyon Campground accommodates tents and RVs under 29 feet, without hookups.
9. Treat Yourself to a Resort Stay
If Arizona's weather doesn't feel like vacation enough, book a luxurious resort stay in Sedona, Tucson, or Scottsdale. Enjoy pools, golf courses, and summer value rates at 5-star resorts.
10. Experience Flagstaff's Nightlife and Food