Top 7 Things You Must Do When Visiting Arizona
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| Photo: BioSpace.com |
Spotting a tourist in Arizona may be more difficult than you would first imagine as even the locals wear shorts and t-shirts and take a high number photographs of the stunning natural landscapes.
Arizona has some of the most incredible and unique terrain in the United States with its rocky canyons and towering mountains. The Grand Canyon is one of the most visited national attractions in the world and it is easy to appreciate why whilst taking in the natural phenomenon.
Here are the top best things to do in Arizona:
1. Look Into the Past at the Petrified Forest
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| Photo: Earthsky.com |
One of Arizona’s lesser-visited natural wonders, the Petrified Forest is nonetheless something special. In just a matter of an hour or two, you can drive backward through time, witnessing colors and textures from millennia past.
Check out Newspaper Rock, and through the provided binoculars glimpse 500-year-old petroglyphs. To stretch your legs, take a half-hour to explore the Blue Mesa trail. It’s not especially challenging—so it’s good for just about all ages—and it provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience to hike along un-real blue and purple hills and rock.
2. Take a Dip in Havasupai Falls
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| Photo: 360Adventures.com |
Not far from the Grand Canyon lies Havasupai Falls, a little-known waterfall flowing with the iciest-blue water you’ve ever seen. The falls belong to the people of the local Havasupai tribe, and they limit the number of people who can enter the Supai village, where the falls lie.
We strongly suggest applying for a permit into the village and, if approved, doing the 10-mile hike to the 100-foot waterfalls and back. If you’re not quite up for the daring jump into the falls, you can also swim in some of the pools at the top.
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3. Monument Valley Tribal Park
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| Photo: Peapix.com |
It’s where John Ford filmed nine classic Westerns and Tom Hanks abruptly ended his run in the movie “Forest Gump.” But Monument Valley is more than on-screen pop culture. It’s a northern Arizona attraction not to miss.
Cabins, camping spots and a hotel inside the park bring you close to the towering red sandstone buttes, cliffs and mesas. The park map includes a self-driving tour. Better yet, hire a park-approved Navajo guide.
4. Shop at Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village
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| Photo: Tripadvisor.com |
This charming Sedona shopping village is decorated in the style of Guadalajara. More than 50 shops and art galleries are nestled under the sycamore trees and elaborate archways.
Once an artist community, it’s now a purveyor of artisanal goods in the area. If you work up an appetite, there’s no need to go far—the village has five gourmet restaurants right on the premises.
5. Stop at the Painted Desert
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| Photo: Pinterest.com |
A swath of land encompassing nearly 100,000 acres, the Painted Desert is aptly named. Forget your impression of brown and boring desert land; the Painted Desert is awash in color, from deep red hues to lovely lavender. It’s like the sunset imprinted itself on the land.
The Petrified Forest is located within the Painted Desert, and is one of the best places to stop and enjoy the view peacefully. Visit the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark, located near the north entrance of the Petrified Forest National Park, to take in the views from several vantage points.
6. See a Real-Life Ghost Town at Jerome
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| Photo: ES.com |
We’ve already talked about some of the top ghost towns, and here’s one more to add to the list: Jerome, Arizona. This abandoned mining town is a quick day trip from Sedona or Phoenix, and it’s perched on top of a mountain overlooking the desert.
Here you’ll find unique sights like the Sliding Jail, which used to sit on a clay slick but now lies 2,500 feet from the original location, and the Bartlett Hotel, which is now in ruins.
7. Make a Pilgrimage to the Grand Canyon
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| Photo: REICoop.com |
| Afterall, nothing can compete with the awe-inspiring power of Mother Nature, and visiting the Grand Canyon is a memorable experience, whether by car or foot. And while you’re sure to have the instinct to Insta-memorialize your visit, take at least a few moments to enjoy the experience with your senses. The South Rim is by far the most popular (consider reservations months in advance for tours or other special experiences). If you have several hours to explore, try a hike along the popular Bright Angel trail. Travel as far as you’re comfortable—just remember you have to hike the same distance, uphill, to get out. Bring snacks and water to stay safe, and wear responsibly comfortable footwear. |
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