Best known for Grand Canyon, Arizona is America’s gem that features wonderful natural sites. The lively deserts here are filled with cacti and colorful rocks—such great contrast to urban city life. What’s fantastic about this place is that modern comforts are within easy reach. And if you want to explore, adventure is not too far either. There are a lot of things you can do here in Arizona, including visiting jaw-dropping natural rock formations, ziplining, and so much more. Read on to get to know some of the most fun things to do in Arizona, USA!
1. Discover the natural beauty of the American Southwest
Witness the glorious natural beauty of rock formations at Upper Antelope Canyons! These are unlike what you’ve seen before. You will find vibrant hues and aesthetic curves at this breathtaking natural wonder. The tour features a rather exclusive land area, and you would need an entry pass. Still, the place is famous because of how the sun gently slips through the openings of the top of the canyons. It is recommended to arrive an hour and a half earlier for this activity. If you brought a car along, that’s not a problem because parking fees are included in the package.
Book Tours : Upper Antelope Canyon Ticket
2. Explore Grand Canyon National Park with your knowledgeable guide
Feast your eyes on the stunning view of Arizona’s natural landscapes with this full-day tour. Grand Canyon is massive, but thankfully, the tour will direct you to the highlights, featuring Route 66. A professional guide will be there to discuss what you need to know. If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to ask! In case you booked a hotel somewhere here in Phoenix or Scottsdale, check if the place is credited for hotel pickup and drop-offI service—for convenient travel.
3. Soak in the serenity of Emerald Cave
See the refreshing, vibrant emerald-colored waters at this one-of-a-kind tour! The natural beauty of Emerald Cave can be explored via kayak. This will take three hours, covering a few miles. There will be two stops for paddlers to enjoy the provided snacks or for others to go swimming (so don’t forget to bring extra clothes!). If you are new to kayaking, that’s not a problem—the waters are gentle. Limited up to 15 passengers, the kayak tour comes with a professional guide who can also provide information about the majestic venue. Bathe in the pristine waters and take a fresh perspective of Colorado River.
4. Stop at Red Rock Ranger Station for pictures of the Red Rocks of Sedona
Feel the rustic side of Arizona by visiting Red Rocks and Cameron Trading Post! Here you will find local goods—Native American artifacts, crafts, and food. The tour starts at 7am, and if you are staying at a hotel around Tempe, Scottsdale, or Phoenix, check for hotel pickup services for your convenience. At Grand Canyon, you will make several stops, so there are lots of chances to take great pictures. The 13-hour tour gives you a fuller experience since you are directed to the points of interest nearby.
5. Experience the magic of natural vortexes
Ride in a jeep and feel the wind kiss your face as you explore the natural vortexes of Arizona. In this small-group tour, you will be learning lots about the place’s history and culture while seeing Sedona’s natural wonders. Before hopping on the jeep, do some research to know anything in particular that you would like to see in the area—the tour route depends on the requests of the people! You will be meeting the experienced tour guide at central Sedona, and from there, don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice requests. Discover Arizona in a unique way through this educational tour.
6. Soak in unobstructed views of the Arizona desert and Verde River
There is something about the train that brings charm and a rustic feel. To get that nostalgia, try out this interesting Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure. Take a four-hour ride through Verde Canyon Railroad, and instead of city views, you will be greeted by the wilderness of the American Southwest. After that, hop on a vintage car to visit historic places such as old mining sites, cliff dwellings, and many more points of interest that have to do with Sedona’s history. Enjoy a champagne toast and appetizers as you settle down with the other curious travelers on the tour.
Book Tours : Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure Package
7. Experience a hot-air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert
Do you love seeing vibrant colors with the dramatic backdrop of gorgeous blue skies? You will love being at the hot-air balloon rides in Phoenix! Get a picturesque view of the Sonoran Desert unlike any other through this experience. Also, the best time for your hot-air balloon flight will be at dawn. The ride comes with a traditional champagne toast and breakfast to enjoy after! Furthermore, the tour comes with a guide who can provide live commentary to let you know the important details of what you will see. Remember to take lots of amazing pictures!
Book Tours : Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
8. Ride the old-fashioned Dolly Steamboat
Arizona has lots of hidden gems—no wonder there are numerous ways to explore the landscapes. One such way to find amazing views is through this Dolly Steamboat. Being on this tour, you will get to discover hidden, remote sites. With four stops—including Tortilla Flat and Lost Dutchman State Park—you will see lots of interesting desert plants. Your knowledgeable guide will let you know what you should about these places, so do not hesitate to ask questions.
Book Tours : Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour
9. Visit the Mission at San Xavier del Bac
Take a tour and go back to the Wild West! Get to know the tales and legends surrounding these streets and visit local historic establishments OK Corral and Big Nose Kate’s Saloon. Take notice of how well-preserved these interesting places are, maintaining their integrity throughout the years. A professional guide will lead you through the route that gives way for you to have a fulfilling experience of this side of Arizona. Booking for this tour is like reserving your turn for a time machine.
10. See more than 5,000 animals at SEA LIFE Aquarium
You’ve heard of the land animals of Arizona. Allow more diversity into your experience by going underwater this time—check out the local sea creatures! The tour provides a cheaper rate for admission, making this more suitable for families and friends as a package. Besides observing the exhilarating world underwater, you may check the schedules available for a free discussion to enrich your knowledge of sea life. Aimed especially toward children, the tour is a great choice for family bonding.
Book Tours : SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket
11. Watch Grand Canyon: The Movie on a six-story screen
Would you want to explore Grand Canyon from an eagle’s point of view? This IMAX movie is for you. Grand Canyon is a massive natural wonder that will take a lot of time if you want to have a fully immersive experience. While showing the film, you will be given valuable information about this natural landscape. As you are seated comfortably, you can see Grand Canyon in such an incredible manner. You may also opt for an upgraded package in case you want to have an on-site meal and drink while showing.
Book Tours : Admission to IMAX Grand Canyon "Rivers of Time"
12. Enjoy the museums, shops, tractor rides, and shooting gallery at Blazin’ M Ranch
Top off your Wild West experience with a visit to Blazin’ M Ranch in Cottonwood. Here, there are lots of activities you can choose from—going to museums, window-shopping, checking out vintage tractor rides, etc. Have all that before you have your well-deserved, thoughtful meals finished off with dessert. Enjoy musical entertainment while chilling with fellow travelers. Remember to take your time exploring the places at your own pace. This is the perfect time to enjoy every minute.
13. Join a Cherokee tribesman for a traditional medicine-wheel ceremony
There are so many interesting aspects to get to know about Arizona. One of which is the local belief of spiritual powers and energies. Learn about the Sedona Medicine Wheel—this was made by the Lakota tribe, and it is known to provide Arizona’s visitors some energy that can potentially be a transformational experience. Have hands-on learning on the traditions among some American Indian tribes.
14. Snap up photos of the towering buttes and pinnacles at Monument Valley Tribal Park
What’s remarkable about Arizona are the natural wonders it possesses. A place that can prove just that is Monument Valley Tribal Park, where you can find beautiful rock formations, buttes, and pinnacles. All the bronze hue in contrast with the rich blue sky makes the site all the more appealing. In this tour, a guide will give you valuable information about the ecosystem and history of this majestic landscape. Because of how vast the place is, the tour will last the whole day, about 12 to 14 hours. Lunch is included, along with pickup and drop-off services. Take lots of photos because this scenery is irreplaceable.
15. Build a Lego tower as high as you can
Release your inner child and go back to playing timeless Legos! Well, who says that those are for kids only? Here at Discovery Center Arizona, not only kids will get to enjoy because adults can join along the fun. With so many activities to do, you may even opt to stay for an entire day since the time depends on you. This is the ultimate way to spend time with family, especially if the kids (preferred ages are 3 to 10 years old) adore Legos. Teach them how to build a tower that can withstand an earthquake, hop on Kingdom Quest Laser Rider and zap skeletons and ogres, and test your singing skills through the karaoke at DUPLO Farm. Admire the awesome Lego creations at Miniland. So much fun awaits!
Book Tours : LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Arizona Admission Ticket
16. Enjoy thrilling rides at Castles N' Coasters
Get your heart pumping and feel the adrenaline rush as you try the variety of rides at Castles N’ Coasters! This amusement park in Phoenix has so many features for you to check out—an 18-hole miniature golf course, an indoor arcade, and of course, over twenty kinds of outdoor rides. Drinks and food are available for sale in the area, and there are lots of spots shaded by trees. For the brave ones, try out the double-loop rollercoaster! Be brave and conquer these fantastic rides! Recommended as a venue for family bonding and fun time with friends, Castles N’ Coasters won’t disappoint.
Castles N' Coasters
Address: 9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85051, United States
Website: Castles N’ Coasters
Opening hours: Sun - Thurs: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 12am
Price: 31 USD
17. Enjoy a scavenger-hunt adventure around Tucson
If you are good at searching for stuff, scavenger hunts are made for you. Get to know more about Tucson in a fun and engaging way through this unique tour! This will take three hours of your time, and you may have a team comprising of two to five people. Through this tour starting just around the central business district, you will get to the famous landmarks as well as overlooked great places in Tucson. With the use of a smartphone, you will discover clues to direct you to the next destination. It is a great idea to take this tour as a way to spend quality time with the family.
Book Tours : Tucson Scavenger Hunt Adventure
18. Enjoy a weekend night of laughter at National Comedy Theater
Laughter and wit will greet you on a comedic night here at National Comedy Theatre. This is the place to get entertained either alone or with friends. Have a blast at this popular show with other comedy lovers all around Phoenix. At a cheap price, you will witness some of Phoenix’s best comedians! Get interactive and throw in some witty lines to wrap up the skits. For the mature audiences out there, mark your calendars on the third Thursday of every month because it features uncensored content, putting comedic lines to the limits. In the end, vote for that local comedian who made your stomach hurt from laughing!
Book Tours : Competitive Comedy @ Neighborhood Comedy Theatre
19. Hear spooky stories of the Wickedest Town in the West
Besides the beautiful sceneries to see in Arizona, there is another side to see—yet perhaps something quite the opposite. Get spooked as you get to know more about the Wickedest Town in the West. The tour features Jerome, Arizona. A knowledgeable tour guide will lead the way and let you know some stories about ghost sightings. Did you know that this area was once a booming town because of mining? Now, it is abandoned and quite creepy. To the brave ones out here to explore Arizona, you should not miss this one-of-a-kind tour!
Book Tours : Spirits and Wine Shuttle Arizona
20. Have a look inside Montezuma Castle National Monument
Go explorer mode as you uncover the wonders of Montezuma Castle National Monument. From their civilization to the culture, you will get to know the way of life of the inhabitants—the Sinagua, who are pre-Columbian people. You will be amazed by how well-preserved this monument is, keeping the historical site intact in spite of the fact that this was built between AD 1100 and 1425! Afterward, you will go to the beautiful Tuzigoot National Monument, which is a three-story pueblo. All along the trip, you will be with a knowledgeable tour guide who can narrate the places’ history. It is a great idea to bring a camera here as the sites are remarkable.
Book Tours : Private Montezuma Castle - Tuzigoot National Mont.
21. Explore the beauty of Colorado Plateau
Be on a fun road trip and feel the breeze while riding a jeep! Great for a group of friends or for the family, this tour can host up to 15 people. This will take about three hours long, so make sure to be snappy when taking pictures during the stops. Strap yourself securely in the jeep and feast your eyes on the wonderful sceneries about to unfold—Merry-Go-Round Rock, Snoopy Rock, Bear Wallow Canyon, and so much more! Arizona offers a lot of exciting natural wonders to see.
Book Tours : Mogollon Rim Run Supreme Jeep Tour from Sedona
22. Marvel at Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Arizona will not disappoint if you are looking for unique geological wonders. If you are on the hunt for a stunning natural rock formation, you shouldn’t miss Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Bring a camera and do not hesitate to take pictures of the irreplaceable, majestic views! At this monument, you will witness one of the world’s largest natural bridges. The aerial ride will take approximately 35 minutes—make the most of it!
23. View and hear over 6,500 instruments at Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)
Heavenly tunes, head-bopping beats, and hum-inducing melodies are not made possible without musical instruments. People are usually familiar with 3 to 10 instruments. How about you get to know nearly 7,000 of them? At Musical Instrument Museum here in Phoenix, you will witness a grand display of beautiful musical instruments all around the world. It is as if you are traveling from Latin America to Africa, then to Asia! Be engaged and get a chance to listen to as many instruments as you can. Plug in your headset to get to know valuable information during this self-guided tour.
24. Unleash your inner artist at this art class in Scottsdale
Have you always had that inner passion for painting? Take this class to revisit it! Here, you are with a group of individuals who are eager to learn tips and tricks in creating stunning art masterpieces. What’s great is that you can bring home your work! No pressure though—this is aimed to be a fun and easy activity to be enjoyed. At the same time, you have the option to purchase a drink from the bar (you may also bring your own). The schedules are during the afternoons and evenings. Get active and don’t shy out from socializing since the class is designed to promote collaboration.
Book Tours : Art and Wine Class in Scottsdale
25. Watch the High Country Raptors show at Fort Bearizona
Get close to wildlife as you check out the High Country Raptors show. See a lot of animals like bears, foxes, owls, bison, wolves, deer, and so much more! If you have not seen them up close, then this is your chance. This is an educational and family-friendly activity to go for. Spend quality time with the entire household here—the kids will surely enjoy getting to know these animals. You will also see how well-maintained and spacious the place is. There are guides to teach you about these cute animals too.
Book Tours : Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Park Ticket
26. Relax on Desert Belle’s sprawling deck as you take in the beautiful sights
Go sightseeing from Saguaro Lake on a fabulous cruise called Desert Belle. A scenic view is what you are in for on this tour. Here you will explore Tonto Natural Forest, so don’t forget to bring your camera to take pictures of the animals (bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, etc.) you might encounter. The 90-minute cruise would give enough time for you to enjoy the panoramic sights. Drinks are available for purchase while on board, but you can opt for an upgraded package with your preferred seat and a free beverage. Explore Arizona a whole new way through this cruise.
Book Tours : Desert Belle Sightseeing Cruise on Saguaro Lake
27. Dine with friends at Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix
The timeless Hard Rock Café is the certified go-to place for some good classic American comfort food. Escape the heat to enjoy out-from-the-grill chicken, tender smoked ribs, and chilled drinks—the perfect way to chill out. Top off your dining experience with a glamorously yummy dessert. You can go solo and meet the locals, or you may opt for group package deals, perfect for family or friends. A benefit when availing of the package is that you will have priority seating. While eating, discuss the musical history of America. Just like in any other Hard Rock Café franchise, here you will see a collection of music memorabilia.
Book Tours : Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix
28. Sample four chef-inspired dishes
During travels, of course, eating great food of the local cuisine should not be overlooked. Why not go all out? If the cuisine of Arizona is what you are looking for, then go for this exciting food tour! You will be introduced to great local eateries you might not hear about from anywhere else. Learn about this region’s award-winning cuisine and get a taste of the scrumptious dishes! This is such a glamorous way to dine locally.
Book Tours : Sedona Vortex and Food Tour
29. Conquer the rugged terrain of the popular Broken Arrow Trail
Revive your adventurous spirit and put on your boots as you bravely conquer the rugged terrain of Broken Arrow Trail! With steep hills and dusty dunes to go through, you need to know how to keep calm—this is not for the faint-hearted! Hang on tight as you go through the bumpy road. With this kind of experience, you will appreciate the beautiful views even more. It is advised to bring sunscreen, a hat, and drinking water just in case. The jeep can accommodate six to nine passengers, so invite your friends along. Be brave as you hop on the jeep for an unforgettable ride!
Book Tours : Sedona Broken Arrow Trail Jeep Tour with Guide
30. Zip-line across Flagstaff's Fort Tuthill Country Park
Have you tried being on a zipline before? If not, then try out the ziplines at Fort Tuthill Country Park. Here, there is not only one zipline but more than thirty! With that many chances, surely you’d try at least one of them. Well, the guides are there to help you through and to reassure your safety. Once you discovered the thrill, your run will go smoother and more enjoyable. Get a fantastic view of the trees and get some fresh mountain air! This is the ultimate break away from the city that can make your heart go wild.
Book Tours : Flagstaff Adventure Zipline Course
Unravel the majestic views of Arizona
Indeed, the place has tons of natural wonders to share. Words cannot describe how beautiful these sites are, so let your picture-taking justify how gorgeous the region is! Getting to know every wonderful area in Arizona will take a lot of your time, so try to set aside as many days as possible for your vacation. Feel the thrill and explore just how majestic the state is. Get to know more about its cities and tour the local way through this list.
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