Arizona Bucket List Things To Do

Your Arizona bucket list is about to expand! This comprehensive list of can’t miss places to visit in Arizona covers the best of the best. The best cities, the best of the outdoors, the best monuments and parks, and the absolute best things to do in Arizona. Buckle up, we have a lot to cover on this list of Arizona bucket list things to do!

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Arizona is one of my favorite places to visit in the world.

I used to live in Arizona, and I can say that during my time there, I truly explored this state to the best of my ability. From countless day trips from Phoenix and longer road trips to Sedona, to oddities like Meteor Crater and Jerome – there is a lot to see in Arizona.

This comprehensive list of Arizona bucket list things to do covers all the best outdoorsy sights. All the famous cities. And all the can’t miss parks within this beautiful state.

Here are the best things to do and places to visit in Arizona – your bucket list is about to expand!

31 Places To See in Arizona

1. Catch sunrise at Hole in the Rock.

Sunrise in the desert is nothing short of phenomenal. And, catching sunrise at Hole in the Rock in Tempe is downright breathtaking.

Hole in the Rock is a fun and easy hike that is great for all ability levels. It’s a good hike to tackle in both winter and summer, because it’s just .5 miles long and offers welcome shade at the low summit. The path is well trodden and easy to follow.

On the way to the viewpoint, once you are behind the formation, take notice of the round hole at the very top of this butte. This opening is not visible from the front side. The Hohokam people were able to track the solstices and other phenomena via the sunlight shining down from here, into the main hole that you will stand.

Once inside, you’ll have sweeping views of the city and park below. If you have just one day in Phoenix, this is the best way to start the day – with an overview of this sunny desert city.

This trail is located within Papago Park, where large red sandstone buttes with unique, winding curves rise abruptly out of the ground. Also nearby is the Desert Botanical Garden, where giant cacti and colorful art installations grace the landscape.

Remember to plan in advance for the heat and bring the proper desert hiking gear. This is one of my favorite easy hikes and a powerful addition to your Arizona bucket list!

2. Hike the iconic Camelback Mountain.

One of the most popular things to do in Phoenix is to hike Camelback Mountain.

Camelback Mountain gets it’s name from its oddly shaped peaks, which, from afar, appear to be shaped like a camel’s back. At the summit, you will be rewarded once again with an excellent viewpoint, this time of surrounding Phoenix.

Hikers have two trail options to choose from on Camelback Mountain, either Echo Canyon or Cholla.

Echo Canyon Trail is 2.5 miles long and is very steep. It will definitely get your blood pumping. Cholla Trail clocks in at a longer 3 miles, but is less steep and strenuous.

Pro Tip: No matter which route you choose, I highly recommend wearing a pair of rugged trekking sandals! Those exact ones have been to six continents with me, as has my trusty wide brim hat.

3. Sunset at Dobbins Lookout.

One of the best Phoenix locations for your Arizona bucket list is easily the Dobbins Lookout inside of the South Mountain Park and Preserve.

This huge stretch of desert land sits just outside of the city, and the view from Dobbins Lookout is a real treat. This spot delivers one of the best panoramic views above Phoenix any time of day, but sunset is the best time to go.

The Dobbins Lookout observation point stands more than 2,000 feet elevation. You can choose to either drive or hike to the top.

If you drive to the top of South Mountain, you’ll find some stone structures for sitting as well as a telescope for viewing out into the distance.

If you choose to hike, take Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout, which winds through dry brush to the epic viewpoint. South Mountain Park and Preserve also happens to be one of the best places to see saguaro cacti in Phoenix, which you absolutely must do.

4. Hike through Saguaro National Park.

The most iconic symbol of Arizona is arguably the giant Saguaro Cactus. While you will see this amazing plant strewn across Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, the state has an entire national park dedicated to these cacti in the city of Tucson.

Saguaro National Park spans across more than 90,000 acres of rugged desert land. It is bisected by the city, with either half known as Saguaro National Park East and Saguaro National Park West.

The hiking trails inside the park are striking, especially when the cacti are covered in colorful spring blossoms. Both the western Tucson Mountain District and the eastern Rincon Mountain District have impressive sights, like ancient petroglyphs, tall mountains, and striking desert panoramas.

Put Saguaro National Park at the top of your Arizona bucket list – it is one of the best places to visit, hands down!

5. See Sedona’s stunningly red rocks.

Sedona is a small and peaceful, but popular, town in central Arizona. With a population of around only 10,000 people, it’s a far cry from the busier cities – and that is exactly why its one of the best places to visit in Arizona.

Sedona is the perfect place to get outside and enjoy nature. With giant, stunningly red rocks surrounding everything here, you can bet there are plenty of hiking trails with epic views nearby! From Cathedral Rock to Devil’s Bridge, you have loads of options.

Those who want to see the landscape without the hikes should consider taking a Jeep tour.

You’ll get to off-road through seven different canyons and learn about Sedona’s history, including early settlers and cowboy lore. You’ll also see one of the best sunsets in the area. Book your tour here!

No matter if you prefer to hike or ride in style, I can guarantee that the terra cotta cliffs will amaze you.

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6. Experience an energy vortex.

One of the most unique things to do in Sedona is to experience the effects of an energy vortex. Mysterious cosmic forces are believed to emanate from the red rocks in certain places, and they bring spiritual people from far and wide to experience it for themselves.

A Vortex is essentially a swirling center of energy that allows for activities like healing and meditation. It is said that the air feels especially alive and electric within a vortex. Many people report feeling recharged afterwards  

The best known vortexes are found at Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon. Expect to see activities like yoga and meditation happening at these sites amongst the rocks.

Each vortex is easily accessible and does not require any heavy duty hiking. Show up with an open mind and see how you feel when you leave. If you ever have a weekend in Sedona, check this off your Arizona bucket list.

7. Ski on Mount Lemmon.

Would you believe that it is completely possible to find snow in Arizona? Well, it is – and you can see it right at the top of looming Mount Lemmon, found in the desert city of Tucson!

The summit sits at 9,000 feet, and has a surprising array of activities available to try. You can hike, visit the observatory, and in the winter, it is even possible to ski here.

A small cabin town named Summerhaven is a welcome escape, and one of the most popular things to do in Tucson‘s summer. Temperatures can be up to 20 degrees cooler here. In the winter, the mountain can receive enough snowfall for skiing.

8. Visit the future at Arcosanti.

Nestled in the high desert of central Arizona, Arcosanti is a true masterpiece of sustainable architecture and urban design.

Conceptualized and designed by Italian architect Paolo Soleri in the 1970s, it offers a unique blend of art, architecture, ecology, and community building.

Arcosanti is not just a building or a community, but rather a bold and visionary experiment that challenges our perceptions of urban living, environmental sustainability, and social harmony.

The main building of Arcosanti, known as the Arcology, is a stunning example of Soleri’s concept of combining architecture and ecology. The building is a massive, multi-level structure, with a unique blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, all designed to optimize sunlight, shade, air flow, and energy efficiency.

There are also several other buildings, including residences, studios, and workshops, all interconnected by a series of landscaped walkways, gardens, and courtyards.

As you explore Arcosanti, you will be struck by the sheer creativity and ingenuity of its design, the harmony between nature and technology, and the sense of community and purpose that pervades every aspect of its existence.

Visiting Arcosanti is a truly inspirational experience that will challenge your ideas of what is possible in architecture and urban design, and leave you with a renewed sense of wonder and hope for our shared future.

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9. Visit the past at Montezuma National Monument.

Montezuma National Monument is a historically significant site for your Arizona bucket list. The monument protects the remains of an ancient Sinagua settlement and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past while exploring its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife.

Montezuma National Monument is home to an impressive array of archaeological sites, including several cliff dwellings which are the highlight, a pueblo village, and rock art dating back over 1,000 years. Visitors can explore these sites on self-guided hikes around the park’s trails.

This site was named after an Aztec ruler after being mistook for an Aztec ruin, “Montezuma Castle” just stuck. Five-stories tall and tucked away above the canyon floor, the dwelling is fascinating. Note that it is not possible to climb into the dwelling; you need to explore from down below.

The monument also offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape flora and fauna. If you’re lucky, you might spot lizards, jackrabbits, roadrunners, and quail as you explore.

10. Marvel at the incredible Wave.

Hiking The Wave is an absolute Arizona bucket list adventure!

This unique sandstone formation looks like a stunning wave of rock, and it’s incredible. The Wave is located in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness just south of the Utah border near Page, AZ.

Permits are required to hike The Wave, which are available through an advanced or daily lottery. Both lotteries are extremely competitive, and only 64 people receive a permit to explore The Wave on any given day.

After hiking The Wave, there are several other nearby trails worth a visit. Wire Pass Canyon to Buckskin Gulch starts at the same trailhead as The Wave and heads through an amazing slot canyon with a cool narrows sections. A day use permit is also required for this hike, but there is no quota.

Or, the Beehives Trail near Page heads along slickrock and offers excellent views. The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail across the border in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah features neat rock formations that look like mushrooms.

Whether you get lucky and get a permit to hike The Wave or choose to explore one of the other nearby trails, this entire area in the northern Arizona desert is extra special.

From Allison at She Dreams of Alpine

11. Explore the awe-inspiring White Pocket.

Also nestled deep in the Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness, this hard-to-reach colorful sandstone rock formation is truly unique. Capped by cauliflower-like white puffs of rock, White Pocket is simply a pocket of white rock in an otherwise unassuming desert landscape.

If you love the great outdoors then White Pocket is one of the best Arizona bucket list vacations for you. This surreal, one-of-a-kind Arizona hike makes for a great day trip from Page, which is two hours away, or for a weekend getaway from Phoenix.

You will need a solid four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the trailhead, which is located about 60 miles from any major highway.

White Pocket is a great backup plan if you can’t get a permit for the Wave, though it is pretty enough alone to warrant the trip. Nonetheless, it’s a great choice if you want to avoid the crowds exploring elsewhere in the Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness Area.

One you reach the parking area, it is a fairly accessible experience since a simple, 0.5 mile hike leads you to the gorgeous, otherworldly rock formations. You’ll no doubt marvel at the fascinating outcrops of rocks topped in white.

However, do tread lightly since these natural formations are incredibly fragile and can break rather easily. Additionally, be on the look out for hoof prints in the rocks. Occasionally, cows from nearby inadvertently wander this area while searching for water.

Pro Tip: Be sure to change your clocks once you arrive at the South Coyote Buttes Parking area. This place is right on the Utah border.

From Meg at Fox in the Forest

12. Discover Antelope Canyon.

Antelope Canyon is an incredibly gorgeous slot canyon in Page, Arizona. Set within the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park, nature created this masterpiece as natural forces such as wind and water over the years eroded the sandstone surface.

There are three Antelope slot canyons – Upper Slot Canyon, Lower Slot Canyon, and Canyon X. Each is unique and more beautiful than the other.

Navajo Nation manages the tribal park and arranges the tours inside the slot canyons. Yes, you can’t visit Antelope Canyon without a Navajo guide. Each slot canyon has designated tour operators, which you can book here.

Upper Antelope Canyon is the most famous of the three, due to a unique light beam phenomenon you can see if you visit at the right time of the day and year. 10 am to 12 pm is the time to spot this rare occurrence. It is a popular time slot, so you must book well in advance. But, this natural wonder is beautiful no matter what time of the day.

The highlight of Lower Antelope Canyon is easily the stunning rock patterns, shapes, and ever-changing colors unveiled on its walls.

X Antelope Canyon, the least popular among all, is no less beautiful. It’s a good alternative if you want a peaceful and crowd-free experience.

People often ask which slot canyon to choose. If possible, allow yourself enough time to explore all three for a complete experience. If you only have time for one, choose Upper Slot Canyon for its photogenic nature.

Families with young kids should talk to their tour operator or read the instructions on its website before planning a trip to avoid any issues.

April to October are the best months to see Antelope Canyon in its glory. That being the case, these months see the highest crowds. If crowds intimidate you, you can plan for the low season, lasting from November to March.

From Anjali of Travel Melodies

13. Kayak the Emerald Cave.

Arizona is jam-packed with so many fantastic getaways. For adventure lovers, head to Willow Beach, AZ to experience kayaking to the breathtaking Emerald Cave. If you didn’t already guess it based on the name, yes, the cave’s water is a beautiful emerald green shade. 

To reach the famous cave, you’ll start at Willow Beach Marina and have to paddle along 2-miles of the Colorado River. During the trip, you’ll be met with amazing views of the towering canyon walls. Don’t forget to enjoy the journey as it’s almost as great as the final destination! 

If you have additional time on the journey, be sure to stop at the beach that you pass and take a short hike up to the overlook. It’s not marked, but you’ll likely see others picnicking along the shores. 

There are many guided trips to choose from where your guide will lead you right to the cave while sharing interesting history about the river and area. Or, if you are an experienced paddler, you can rent a kayak right at Willow Beach Marina. 

Many people experience this as a day trip from Las Vegas as it is only one hour away, but you could also make the trip from the Pheonix airport which would leave you with a 4-hour drive. 

If choosing to spend more time in the area, be sure to stop at the nearby Hoover Dam or hike to the picturesque Goldstrike or Arizona Hot Springs! 

From Jordan at The Homebody Tourist

Pro Tip: If you are visiting from out of town, consider booking a tour to Emerald Cove. This one includes 3-4 hours on the water and a clear-bottom kayak. Transportation is included from Las Vagas. Book your tour here!

14. Explore the underappreciated Grand Canyon North Rim.

The North Rim viewpoints of the Grand Canyon deserve a separate mention if you’re planning an Arizona bucket list vacation, as it’s far from the well-known South Rim.

It’s not easy to combine visits to both parts of the park, as the North Rim is 220 miles by road from the South Rim. In addition, the North Rim is cooler in temperature and higher in elevation, with Point Imperial as the highest point at 8,803 feet.

The North Rim is more difficult access, and has fewer amenities. Only 10% of visitors to the Grand Canyon come here!

So is it worth it to visit the North Rim? Yes. Because this part is also spectacular.

The North Rim is a good choice for people who like silence, less touristy places, and cooler temperatures. The closest towns to the North Rim are Page, Arizona, and Kanab, Utah.

From Page, it’s 80 miles via US-89A S and US-89 N to Route 67. Then you’ll need to take the scenic Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway (Route 67), which leads 43 miles to the North Rim. Route 67 is closed from November through May 15.

Start your adventure at the North Rim Visitor Center, where you can learn a lot about the park and get a map. See the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, built in 1927 of stone and wood. Hike the Bright Angel Point Trail, an easy path that takes you to a spectacular viewpoint.

It’s also worth hiking the Cape Royal Trail and the Transept Trail. If you’re an experienced hiker, consider the strenuous and challenging North Kaibab Trail.

You can also take a trip to Toroweap Overlook from the North Rim. Geographically, this is also the northern part of the Grand Canyon. But the entrance is over 142 miles away, and you need a special permit.

It’s worth it, though, because the view is one of the most beautiful in the entire Grand Canyon!

From Agnes at The Van Escape

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15. Visit the popular Grand Canyon South Rim.

The South Rim is by far the most popular place to see the Grand Canyon. Home to Grand Canyon Village, there are plenty of things to do and see. The number one thing to do, of course, is to view the Grand Canyon.

Considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world, this canyon is truly breathtaking. There are around 50 viewpoints along the South Rim and a free shuttle bus that takes you to many of them. Highlights include Yavapai Point, Mather Point, and Powell Point. 

If you’re looking for something more active to do, there are several iconic hiking trails. Walk along the Rim Trail and soak in the views or head down into the canyon on the legendary Bright Angel Trail or the nearby South Kaibab Trail (Ooh Aah Point is an appropriately-named viewpoint on this trail). 

You can also ride a mule on a guided trip down into the canyon, or take an easier ride through a lovely ponderosa pine forest. You’ll see the Abyss, another stunning view of the canyon. 

Visitors can also opt for a scenic flight in a helicopter leave from the nearby Grand Canyon Airport.  

If all that excitement and activity is too much, you can go shopping at Hopi House, relax with a drink on the porch of the historic El Tovar Hotel, or learn all about the canyon’s creation in the Geology Museum. 

The easiest way to reach the South Rim Grand Canyon is to drive from Flagstaff (about 1.5 hours) or Williams (1 hour). There is also a daily train from Williams that is a unique way to visit the canyon on a day trip. 

From James Ian at Parks Collecting 

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16. Drive to the majestic Monument Valley.

It might feel “out of the way,” but that’s part of the charm of Monument Valley Tribal Park!

Located on just south of the Arizona-Utah border, this spectacular part of the Navajo Nation has been featured in many films, such as Forrest Gump and the John Ford Westerns. 

Yet, seeing it on a screen is nothing compared to seeing these towering buttes, spires, and mesas in person! 

You’ll want to base your trip around the 17-mile loop in the park, which takes you up close to the park’s most iconic geological features, including the East and West Mitte Buttes. 

If you’re visiting Monument Valley with kids, you’ll want to stop and get out at various points on your drive. You can pause anywhere that you find interesting, but the views from John Ford Point are particularly spectacular. 

Add on a short hike to see some of the local wildlife up close, and stop by the visitor’s center for authentic Navajo souvenirs.

After you’ve explored the park, grab some fry bread tacos over at the San Juan Inn in near Mexican Hat, Utah. You can also take the short hike to the sombrero-shaped rock formation that gives Mexican Hat its name!

From Natalie at Camping Kiddos

17. View the colorful Petrified Forest National Park.

One of the most underrated spots to explore in Arizona is Petrified Forest National Park, tucked in the northeastern corner of the state.

While it may not be the most famous of the natural landmarks in the state, like the Grand Canyon or Sedona, it’s nonetheless stunning, with striated badlands, rolling hills, and vibrantly-colored desert, stretching to the horizon.

Plus, with its location on Route 66, it’s an easy stop on this classic American road trip.

One of the best ways to get familiarized with the park is hiking on its Blue Mesa Trail. It is a short and easy hike that drops below the rim of a mesa and snakes between indigo-colored bentonite hills, towering overhead.

Be sure to keep a sharp eye on the slopes of the hills surrounding you. You should be able to see pieces of the park’s namesake fossilized wood slowly becoming unearthed as the hills slowly erode away and change shape. 

If you want a better look at the ancient wood, head over to the Crystal Forest trail, where you’ll walk along a paved pathway, with seemingly countless pieces of rainbow-colored petrified wood scattered across the surrounding hills. 

Finally, be sure to carve out some time to explore the Painted Desert, with pink and scarlet badlands that stretch on for miles and miles in either direction.

There are a variety of ways to enjoy the desert. Walk along a flat, paved path along the rim of the mesa, overlooking the sprawling hills below, to taking a backcountry camping trip amongst its colorful hills. 

From Jessica at Uprooted Traveler

18. Enjoy activity-filled Glen Canyon.

The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is situated in northern Arizona and crosses into southern Utah. Covering over 1.2 million acres of desert, lakes, and canyons, Glen Canyon is a fantastic destination to add to your bucket list in Arizona.

Bordered by well-known national parks including the Grand Canyon, Canyonlands National Park, and the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, this is the perfect starting point for a trip filled with adventure.

The recreation area boasts endless miles of backcountry hiking through slot canyons, unique rock formations, and hanging gardens for day hikers and overnight backpackers alike.

Boaters, paddlers, and anglers will enjoy Lake Powell, a gigantic man-made reservoir on the Colorado River. Launch your kayak or paddleboard right from the shoreline, or bring your own powerboat to the Lake Powell Resort and Marina.

Be sure to visit Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest known natural bridges that is accessible only by water.

You can also go swimming at Lone Rock Beach during the hotter months. And camping in the Glen Canyon recreation area is one of the best things to do in Page for families.

From Erin at Super Simple Salty Life

19. Go “Wild West” in Scottsdale.

Scottsdale is an Arizona destination known for luxurious resorts, challenging golf courses, and spring training, but it’s so much more.

One of the most popular things to do in Scottsdale, and for good reason, is the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. With over 30,000 acres and a complex variety of plants and animals, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the desert.

The landscape is stunning enough that renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright made it his winter home. Today, you can tour Taliesin West and see why it is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List.

For a crash course on the Wild Wild West, visit Western Spirit: Museum of the West. Exhibits showcase original Hopi pottery, other Native American tools and clothing, and what it was really like to be a cowboy.

In Old Town, the Scottsdale Rodeo Museum is a glimpse into this way of life, founded by a man who was practically born on horseback. If all that western work has you thirsty, Old Town also has several wine tasting rooms.

Scottsdale is located next to Phoenix. If you want a luxurious getaway, consider The Phoenician. And for a resort with a cool vibe, Andaz Scottsdale has you covered.

From Theresa at The Local Tourist

20. Get the best views at Horseshoe Bend.

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most popular destinations in the state, attracting visitors from all over the world.

The name is inspired by a natural bend in the Colorado River that has been shaped over millions of years by the forces of nature. The result is a horseshoe-shaped curve that drops 1,000 feet into the canyon below, offering visitors a panoramic view of the plummeting cliffs.

The main attraction at Horseshoe Bend is, of course, the view of the unique geological feature of the Colorado River. Visitors can take a short 1.2 mile hike from the parking area to the overlook and enjoy the landscape from above.

In addition to the overlook, wander off the main path onto other hiking trails and viewpoints in the area. Many often pair Horseshoe Bend with other day trip tours to Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam, and water activities on Lake Powell.

For the more adventurous traveler, rafting and kayaking trips are available on the river. Backhaul up the Colorado River all the way to Glen Canyon Dam, and you’ll be able to kayak through the bend from below!

Be prepared for some serious arm exercise – even though the waters may be calm, it will take hours of paddling until you reach the final destination!

From Catherine at Nomadicated

21. Experience the seasons of Flagstaff.

Flagstaff, Arizona is typically used as a base city for exploring nearby national parks including the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest National Parks. However, the city deserves to be explored on its own as there is much to do in this small college town.

First, visit Lowell Observatory, the discovery place of Pluto. You can learn about the cosmos and on clear nights, even get to use their telescope to stargaze. Because Flagstaff is the first ever dark sky city, stargazing is very popular as you can easily see the Milky Way easily on clear nights.

Flagstaff is a beautiful place for hiking and scenic drives, especially in the fall because the aspens turn bright yellow. Humphrey’s Peak is one of the most popular hikes and Arizona Snowbowl has some great fall foliage along the drive.

In the winter, skiing and snowboarding is the thing to do at Arizona Snowbowl where the slopes are more extensive than you might think.

Don’t forget to explore downtown Flagstaff where you’ll find a variety of cute shops and delicious restaurants. A local favorite is Lumberyard with a craft brewery on site.

Stay downtown at Hotel Monte Vista, also said to be haunted, or Bespoke Inn, which is a bit more removed from the nightlife scene downtown if you want a quieter stay. It is very popular as you can easily see the Milky Way on clear nights.

From Alanna at Periodic Adventures

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22. Meet the burros at Oatman.

For those looking for a different travel experience, a trip to Oatman Arizona is an excellent choice. This historic mining town offers visitors a glimpse into life in the old Wild West. Oatman is just a short two hour drive from Las Vegas or a four hour drive from Phoenix.

One of the main draws for tourists visiting Oatman are the famous wild burros that roam through town.

These friendly creatures have been known to come right up close for some snacks or even pose for photos. Visitors can purchase bags of carrot sticks from local shops and you will be their new best friend!

Another popular attraction is the Oatman Hotel & Restaurant, to experience classic western decor alongside delicious dining options. Try the fresh pies made daily at the onsite bakery, always in high demand.

History buffs interested in learning about 1800’s frontier days can explore the Historic Route 66, running straight through the centrally located main street. Once frequented by legendary miners such as Black Bart himself, this spot provides loads of signature photo opportunities along with relics from the past.

Visitors may also opt to explore Goldroad Mining District, or a day trip down the Colorado River. There’s no shortage of things to enjoy here.

From Shannon at Three Days in Vegas

23. Learn the rich history of Window Rock.

Window Rock is a unique destination in northeastern Arizona for your bucket list. As the capital of the Navajo Nation, this area is rich in Native American culture and history, and there is a lot to see here.

The Code Talker Memorial is located at the Navajo Nation Veterans Memorial Park. This memorial honors the hundreds of Navajo who served in the military during World War II.

The location of the Code Talker Memorial is in front of the Window Rock monument to serve as a tribute for those who have sacrificed for their home. The Veterans Memorial Park is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Just a few minutes from the Code Talker Memorial is the Navajo Nation Museum. It exhibits the rich history and culture of the Navajo people.

Visitors can view traditional Navajo art, jewelry, and textiles. Depending on the time of year that you visit, the museum also may also be hosting an event.

Lastly, the Navajo Nation Zoo is conveniently located right next to the Navajo Nation Museum. See native wildlife such as bears, elk, and bison, as well as an eagle aviary. Admission to the zoo is free, and there is a gift shop selling handmade Navajo crafts.

When visiting Window Rock, be sure to try some fry bread, a traditional Navajo dish. Also, plan your visit between April and October to avoid freezing temperatures.

From Andy at Explore With Finesse

24. Walk among the cacti at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

One of the most jaw-dropping points of interest in Arizona has got to be the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Nature lovers will appreciate meeting the tall and wild cacti, so different from the Saguaros!

Established in 1937, this area was intended to preserve the unique biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert. This park is jam-packed full of rare desert plants like the titular Organ Pipe Cactus within its 517 square miles.

Every nature-lover is bound to find something they appreciate – whether it’s camping under the star-filled skies or meandering the rugged trails.

25. See incredibly blue waters at Havasupai Falls.

Tucked away deep in the heart of the Havasupai reservation in western Arizona is the Havasu Cavern. This area is home to a series of stunning aquamarine waterfalls that you’ve likely seen online before.

Havasu Falls is the most famous of the waterfalls here, due to the stunning blue against the red rocky cliffs. But beware – getting here is pretty difficult. Visitors need not only a permit to enter the reservation, but you also need to be prepared for a strenuous hike.

If you do many it, though, Havasu Falls is an unforgettable destination. Put it at the top of your Arizona bucket list immediately!

26. Get off the beaten path in Superior.

After visiting Arizona’s classic destinations like the Grand Canyon and Sedona, consider stepping off the beaten path!

One hour east of Phoenix nestled into the Superstition Mountains is Superior. In this “superior” small mountain town, explore colorful, local shops, a Saturday farmer’s market, and a famous botanical garden.  

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a unique botanical garden of its kind. Spanning 392 acres through the Superstition Mountain Range just outside of Tonto National Forest, adventure awaits. 

Exploring the oldest botanical garden in Arizona is an incredible way for adventurers who are not looking for an intensive hike to still enjoy the Southwest’s breathtaking scenery. Housing 12 biodiverse gardens, visitors can learn even more about the plants through guided nature walks and special events. 

Other places to visit in Superior include Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, the annual Prickly Pear Festival in August, and simply exploring Main Street. Main Street Superior’s local shopping includes colorful art galleries, antiques, and vibrant coffee shops.

Outdoor enthusiasts eager for more hiking might consider Picketpost Mountain Trail and Alamo Canyon Trail.  

Visiting Superior, Arizona makes for a great day or afternoon trip from Phoenix. Add it to your Arizona bucket list today!

From Alyssa at An Apple A Plane

27. Explore the rugged Canyon de Chelly National Monument.

In the northeast corner of the state lies one of Arizona’s hidden gems. It has towering rock walls, spires jutting seemingly out of nowhere, and a storied history of a time before Europeans ever set foot on this continent. 

This is the stunning Canyon De Chelly National Monument. 

On the Navajo Reservation, Canyon De Chelly is a five-hour drive from the Phoenix metro area and sits outside of Chinle, Arizona. This National Monument is the highlight of the area. 

The most popular activity in Canyon De Chelly is driving to the scenic overlooks to soak in the views. There are more than half a dozen to choose from, with Spider Rock Overlook being the most popular. 

You can also take part in Ranger-led hikes throughout the area. This lets you stretch your legs and also learn about the 5,000-year history of this area. 

Or, you can tour the canyon’s backcountry with a Navajo guide. This can be arranged on foot, on horseback, or in a car. Note that you can only access the backcountry with a Navajo Guide. Learn more here.

From Alec at Explore With Alec

28. Marvel at the Hoover Dam.

The Hoover Dam is a perfect addition to your Arizona bucket list. It is an incredible engineering work and a true marvel of human achievement.

The Dam is massive, measuring over 700 feet high and over 1,200 feet wide. It has been an essential source of hydroelectric power for the region since its construction in the 1930s. 

The Dam lies on the border between Arizona and Nevada, making it a great day trip from Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the mountains and the nearby Lake Mead, a popular destination for water sports and outdoor recreation.

The area is also home to several hiking trails and campsites, making it an ideal destination for those who love to explore the great outdoors.

Not only is the Hoover Dam famous for its engineering and natural beauty, but it is integral to American history. The Dam was constructed during the Great Depression, which led to much-needed jobs and economic stimulus for the region.

The Dam also played a critical role in developing the American Southwest, helping provide water and electricity to cities like Los Angeles and Las Vegas. 

Things To Do At Hoover Dam – 

• Visitors can take a guided tour of the Dam to learn more about its history, construction, and ongoing operation, which is a fascinating and educational experience.
• You can take a helicopter ride over this fascinating site for an aerial view of this vast Dam trapping the wild Colorado River. 
• You can also combine the Hoover Dam visit with the Grand Canyon West Rim visit in one day.
• Cross the famous Memorial Bridge with a perfect view of the Dam and river
• Check out nearby Lake Mead for the best water activities.

 The perfect time to visit Hoover Dam is during Spring and Winter. Avoid Summer and hot afternoons if possible!

From Yukti at Travel With Me 24 x 7

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29. Visit the Jerome Ghost Town.

Jerome, Arizona is a unique town that dates back to the 1800s when it was established as a mining town. Jerome was known for being one of the largest copper mining towns in the state of Arizona. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with its antique shops, art galleries, and wineries.

Visitors can take a stroll down the historic Main Street and explore the buildings preserved from the mining era. Jerome is also home to the Jerome State Historic Park and the Douglas Mansion, that gives visitors a glimpse into the life of the wealthy mining family who once lived there.

It is not just Jerome’s mining history that makes it a standout destination, but also its unique geographical location. The town is surrounded by the cliffs and mountains of northern Arizona, providing breathtaking views from every angle.

30. Meet the gunslingers of Tombstone.

Tombstone, Arizona is a town steeped in Wild West history.

Founded in 1877, this former silver mining boomtown was notoriously known for its outlaw cowboys, gunslingers, and lawmen, including Wyatt Earp and his brothers.

One of Tombstone’s biggest claims to fame is the legendary gunfight at the O.K. Corral, where Wyatt Earp, his brothers, and Doc Holliday were pitted against a gang of notorious cowboys.

Visitors flock to the town to see historic landmarks such as the O.K. Corral and the Bird Cage Theatre, where many shootouts and other Wild West shenanigans took place. The town is also home to Boot Hill Cemetery, where many of Tombstone’s colorful characters from the past are buried.

Visitors can also take a ride on the stagecoach, visit one of the many saloons, or attend a reenactment of the famous gunfight.

Tombstone may be a small town, but it’s big on history and western charm. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the Wild West and wants to experience a taste of America’s past.

31. Go underground at Kartchner Caverns.

Kartchner Caverns State Park is a stunning network of underground caves an hour outside of Tucson that offer visitors the opportunity to explore a natural wonder unlike any other.

The caverns were discovered in 1974 by spelunkers Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts, who managed to keep their discovery a secret for over a decade to protect the fragile ecosystem inside.

Since the caverns were opened to the public in 1999, visitors have been amazed by the incredible formations found inside, including stalactites, stalagmites, shields, and more. The Big Room, the largest of the caves, is over 58,000 square feet and has to be seen to be believed.

To protect the caverns, tours are carefully designed to limit impact, and no touching of formations is allowed. Visitors to Kartchner Caverns are sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for the natural beauty of our planet, and a desire to protect it for generations to come.

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I hope you have enjoyed this Arizona Bucket List Things To Do post! Hopefully, it will help you see all the best sights in the state.

Let me know below what you would add to the list!

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