For most people, when they think of Arizona, images of vast painted deserts, towering saguaro cacti, isolated winding highways, and endless sun come to mind. But that’s just a small part of this incredibly diverse state.

Home to the 5th largest city in the United States. Seven natural wonders of the worldthree national parks, and approximately 21 million acres of national forest land, Arizona is characterized by striking contrasts. You can wear a T-shirt and walk around a trendy city, and a few hours later you’ll be packing up and skiing at 10,000 feet. It’s a place where thorny cacti meet lush pine forests, where ancient cliff dwellings stand not far from the retro neon signs along Route 66, and one of only two in the U.S. That’s where Tucson is. UNESCO Gastronomic City – Serves some of the best cuisine in the country.

There are endless ways to get outdoors and discover new cultural experiences, so where do you start? Whether you want to experience Arizona, whether it’s dreamy deserts, vibrant cities, highlands, scenic drives, or more , it’s up to you.

When should I go to Arizona?

This depends on what kind of experience you have in mind and where you are heading. In the southern part of the state, including Phoenix and Tucson, the weather is ideal from winter through early spring (December to April), with daytime temperatures in the low 60s to high 80s F (19 to 28 degrees). is in the range. ℃). What are the drawbacks? everyone From hikers and golf enthusiasts to sun-seeking travelers from colder climates, everyone wants to be in Arizona this time of year. spring training baseball fan. Expect maximum traffic, congestion, and fees for services such as car rental and accommodation.

As Arizonans like to say, winters in the north are very different. White Mountains towns are well over 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) above sea level, and the San Francisco Mountains near Flagstaff are dotted with towering mountains ranging from 10,000 feet to 12,000 feet (3,048 meters to 3,657 meters). Snow is as plentiful as sunshine.

Arizona summers, on the other hand, are not for the faint of heart, at least in the desert. Temperatures regularly exceed 110°F (43°C), and the monsoon season (June to September) alternates between stifling dryness and stifling humidity. Summer is a great time to explore northern Arizona, as high-elevation locations like Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon are comfortable and surprisingly cool.

At 4,350 feet (1,326 m) above sea level, Sedona is centrally located, receives snow several times each winter, and summers are typically mildly cooler than Phoenix.

Budget-conscious travelers should consider September or October as a bit of a shoulder season, with fewer tourists and warmer, more bearable weather. If you’re okay with spending every waking moment poolside or indoors, look for amazing staycation deals at luxury resorts from June to August. If you’re planning outdoor activities, keep in mind that Arizona is a very dry place. So be sure to bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially in sweltering summers.

How much time should I spend in Arizona?

You can visit the highlights of any Arizona city on a weekend trip. The keyword is “one”. You’ll need at least 4 to 5 days, and ideally 7 to 10 days, for meaningful exploration and, more importantly, to appreciate how incredibly diverse and vast Arizona is. .

A five-day Phoenix-based trip includes a road trip to Sedona or one of the state’s three national parks, a visit to some of the Valley’s famous urban hiking trails, and an eat-and-drink trip to Scottsdale. You can. If you have a full week or more, you can venture to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend near Page, spend the night in the Grand Canyon, and explore lesser-known but worthwhile destinations like Picacho Peak and the quirky Bisbee and Cartner Caverns. You can also explore gems.

Is it easy to travel to and from Arizona?

Phoenix and Tucson both have international airports, with PHX being significantly larger. Most visitors fly into one of these and drive to their final destination, but the state also has smaller regional airports. No matter where you arrive, plan to pick up your rental car right away. Although major cities and tourist hubs have buses and other forms of public transportation, Arizona is overwhelmingly a destination by car. Even the largest subways have surprisingly small service areas, and wait times are typically 30 to 45 minutes, but in 100°F (37°C) temperatures that feels like an eternity.

Inside information: In Phoenix, book your rental outside the airport and pick it up on the light rail. Airport fees increase the cost of both rental cars and rideshares.

Top things to do in Arizona

Adventures in the Grand Canyon State are as diverse as its terrain and climate. In just one weekend, you can hike through the desert, dine in a world-famous gourmet city, and take in the views from nearly 12,000 feet (3,657 meters).

Hike the Superstition Mountains

Arizona has many great places for hiking, but Rugged Superstition has a special charm. Located in the far east of Mesa, these mountains are easily accessible from anywhere in Phoenix and less than two hours from Tucson. Experts can embark on super-challenging treks and literally spend all day on the trail, while beginners can enjoy great short and (mostly) fun hikes. Please check hieroglyphic locus, wave cave trail or Treasure Loop Trailall less than 3 miles away.

Experience the energy vortex in Sedona

One of the reasons Sedona attracts so many tourists is its naturally occurring energy vortex. Many believe they have intense spiritual, transformative, and even healing powers. And whether you believe it or not, there’s absolutely no doubt that Sedona has an elevated vibe…something. See for yourself at one of the city’s most easily accessible vortex sites, including Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, Cathedral Rock, and Airport Mesa.

If it’s hot, cool off in the swimming hole or check out the natural water slides. Slide Rock State Park.

Explore one of the state’s oldest neighborhoods in Tucson

In Tucson’s Barrio Viejo, art galleries and studios, elaborate murals, and dozens of great restaurants are tucked away in (and between) colorful adobe buildings from the 1870s and ’80s. . If the timing is right, you can hit it. 5 Points Market & Restaurant Have breakfast, then sit down and have dinner coronetthe menu is always changing and the cocktails are always top notch.

Take a gondola ride to enjoy the scenery from high altitudes

A quick visit may not be enough time to summit Arizona’s highest peak, 3,850-meter (12,633-foot) Humphreys Peak, but you can still soak in the same views. of Beautiful gondola at Arizona Snowbowl Flagstaff soars to 11,500 feet (3,505 meters) above sea level, offering views of the Grand Canyon and Sedona on clear days. The gondola is closed during the summer and ski season, but operates almost all year round. In good weather, Snowbowl opens for a short gondola season in October for fall foliage viewing.

Please stop by on your way there (or return). Mama B Enjoy a classic burger, fries, and shake combo. Formerly known as Mama Burger, this no-frills spot is a local favorite with stunning mountain views.

What I like most about Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is no hidden gem. On the contrary, it is visited by millions of tourists every year. But there are ways to experience this iconic natural wonder without the crowds. It’s all about kayaking. As people flock to observation decks to take the perfect selfie, you’re 305 meters (1000 feet) above the ground, surrounded by impossibly steep canyon walls and surrounded by no one but wild horses. Instead, I’m blissfully rowing down the Colorado River.

Add this epic adventure to your bucket list by booking a backhaul service. Kayaking Colorado or kayak horseshoe bend. In either case, the boat takes the kayak upstream, then paddles (actually more like a float on calm days) back to Lees Ferry. I have done this trip many times with both companies and in different seasons. There’s really no bad way to do it, but I recommend staying in Marble Canyon because it’s very remote and you’ll need to stay in the following locations. First thing in the morning at the marina.

How much money do I need to go to Arizona?

Generally speaking, prices in Arizona are relatively affordable, but as with any region, you can expect everything to cost (much) more in the big cities and major tourist destinations. Sedona and Scottsdale have a reputation for inducing sticker shock, but don’t be surprised by shockingly high price tags in any nondescript neighborhood. Accommodation has the greatest variety, with options ranging from ultra-budget motel rooms to expansive five-star resorts.

• Basic double room (major cities or tourist hubs): $130-$300 per night

• Basic double room (small town): $60-120 per night

• Luxury hotel room (urban, off-season): $170-$400 per night

• Luxury hotel rooms (urban areas, peak season): $350-$1000 per night

• Daily resort fee (applies primarily to Tucson, Phoenix, and Sedona): $30 to $55

• Airbnb (whole home, city or tourist destination): $100-$1500 per night.

• Airbnb (whole house, small town): $70 to $175 per night.

• Coffee: $4–8

• Sandwich: $8–18

• Fast casual dinner per person: $16 – $25

• Average sit-down dinner for two: $60-$100

• Pint of beer at bar: $4–10

• Cocktails: $12–18

• paletas (Traditional Mexican frozen ice pop, usually made with fresh fruit): $3 to $7

Do I need a passport to enter Mexico from Arizona?

A valid passport is required for international travel, but if you are a U.S. citizen, passport card Enough land Entering Mexico from Arizona. Similar in appearance to a driver’s license, these are proof of U.S. citizenship (although they are not valid for international air travel). Citizens of other nationalities should expect to use their passports when entering Mexico.

Watch your step in the Arizona desert

Arizona, especially the desert, is home to many native venomous species. These include rattlesnakes, scorpions, spiders, and more. Be careful, but don’t be afraid. Like most wild animals, these animals usually do not want to interact with humans and will only attack or bite as a means of defense. When out in nature, be aware of your surroundings and watch your step, especially around bushes and large rocks.