Arizona’s landscape, featuring everything from Saguaro cacti to striking canyons and volcanic mountains, showcases some of the most breathtaking views in the United States.
Recently, a competition to find Arizona’s most beautiful location kicked off, pitting ten stunning spots against one another. Readers cast their votes to identify the most impressive Arizona view that everyone should experience at least once. Voting for Round 1 ended on Sunday, with hundreds participating to decide the three finalists.
The top three contenders advanced to the second round of this beauty contest.
You can still cast your vote for your favorites until midnight on Sunday, July 27th.
The winners will be revealed on July 29th.
But first, let’s take a closer look at the finalists.
Grand Canyon
Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon stands as one of America’s greatest geological marvels. It has inspired many artists who have attempted to capture its grandeur, but truly seeing it in person offers a unique experience. You can take in the scenery from various viewpoints along the South Rim, like Mather Point or the well-known Hopi Point, especially during sunrise or sunset. Just a heads-up, the North Rim is currently closed for the rest of the 2025 season due to the Dragon Bravo Wildfire.
Sedona Red Rocks
The vibrant reddish tones of Sedona’s sandstone formations, resulting from iron oxidation, capture the hearts of many visitors. Annually, around three million people flock to Sedona, often exploring these red rocks through hiking and jeep tours. Not only is the landscape stunning, but it’s also believed to have healing powers. Cathedral Rock stands out at Red Rock Vista and is famous for its energy vortex. There’s also the notable Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is beautifully integrated into the rock formations.
Monument Valley
Rising about 1,000 feet from the desert floor, Monument Valley’s iconic sandstone structures provide breathtaking panoramic views. Located within Navajo Nation and straddling the Arizona border, the valley is known for its distinctive formations like East Mitten and Merrick Butte. If it feels familiar, it’s likely because it has been featured in numerous films, particularly Westerns. In fact, it has served as the backdrop for over 101 movies.
Vote now in the Arizona beauty poll
Don’t miss your chance to participate in this exciting poll about the most beautiful locations in Arizona.