Choose from 63 Fun Things to Do in Arizona
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National Geographic Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Sometimes the visitor center is nearly as grand as the actual destination. That’s definitely the case as the National Geographic Grand Canyon Visitor Center located at the South Rim entrance.
Travelers can gather plenty of free park maps, check out an IMAX movie about the Natural Wonder, get expert advice on planning the perfect Grand Canyon experience, books hotels and pick up park passes at this one-stop shop. Guests can also explore an extensive catalogue of sightseeing, self-guided and private tours and even get help with booking.
Travelers can gather plenty of free park maps, check out an IMAX movie about the Natural Wonder, get expert advice on planning the perfect Grand Canyon experience, books hotels and pick up park passes at this one-stop shop. Guests can also explore an extensive catalogue of sightseeing, self-guided and private tours and even get help with booking.
Practical Info
The visitor center is located at 450 State Route 64 at the park’s South Rim entrance. It is open March through October from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. and November through February from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Address: 450 Arizona 64, Tusayan, AZ, USA
Hours: Mar-Oct 8am-10pm; Nov-Feb 10am-8pm
From $ 14
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is one of the treasures of the US Park Service, featuring more than 230 square miles (59,570 hectares) of colorful desert landscape that covers parts of Navajo and Apache counties and features significant deposits of petrified wood from the late Triassic period. The Painted Desert, an area of desert badlands featuring varied shades of sedimentary rock, covers the northern part of the national park. Highlights include Newspaper Rock, covered with ancient petroglyphs, and the Blue Mesa Road Loop.
The Basics
Hikers, photographers, and nature lovers will want to spend as much time as possible among the Petrified Forest's natural wonders in areas such as the Crystal Forest, the Black Forest, and the Rainbow Forest. The Painted Desert, a national historic landmark, also offers a multitude of trails for visitors to explore the striated mounds of sedimentary rock. Many travelers opt to combine guided tours with visits to other attractions in Arizona, such as the Grand Canyon or Monument Valley.
How to Get There
The park is located about two hours east of Flagstaff. Visitors can reach the park via I-40 by car, motorcycle, or organized tour. Both visitor centers have ample parking and turnouts for large recreational vehicles.
When to Get There
Temperatures top out in the 90°s Fahrenheit in the summer days but drop to the 40°s Fahrenheit at night; spring and fall are more popular times to visit. The park is open every day except Christmas, as are the Painted Desert Visitor Center, the Rainbow Forest Museum, and the Painted Desert Inn.
The More You Know
The Basics
Hikers, photographers, and nature lovers will want to spend as much time as possible among the Petrified Forest's natural wonders in areas such as the Crystal Forest, the Black Forest, and the Rainbow Forest. The Painted Desert, a national historic landmark, also offers a multitude of trails for visitors to explore the striated mounds of sedimentary rock. Many travelers opt to combine guided tours with visits to other attractions in Arizona, such as the Grand Canyon or Monument Valley.
- Bring layered clothing, as the desert temperature fluctuates wildly throughout the day.
- The Painted Desert Visitor Center and the Rainbow Forest Museum are good places to start for an orientation to the area.
- Seven maintained hiking trails allow pets on leash, but no bicycles (check out the off-the-beaten-path Jasper Forest hike).
- No overnight accommodations are available in the park, but nearby Holbrook has several options.
The park is located about two hours east of Flagstaff. Visitors can reach the park via I-40 by car, motorcycle, or organized tour. Both visitor centers have ample parking and turnouts for large recreational vehicles.
When to Get There
Temperatures top out in the 90°s Fahrenheit in the summer days but drop to the 40°s Fahrenheit at night; spring and fall are more popular times to visit. The park is open every day except Christmas, as are the Painted Desert Visitor Center, the Rainbow Forest Museum, and the Painted Desert Inn.
The More You Know
A variety of educational programs, led by the park rangers, are offered throughout the year. Activities include a Puerco Pueblo guided walk, a trek along the Giant Logs Trail, a lecture about the Triassic period at the Rainbow Forest Museum, and a Painted Desert Inn tour. Kids can complete a booklet to become a junior park ranger.
Address: Arizona, USA
Hours: Yearround
Admission: $10 per vehicle or $5 per person for a seven day pass
From $ 126
Oak Creek Vista
Visitors to Oak Creek Canyon would be wise to stop at this scenic viewpoint for a bird’s eye view of the rolling Arizona landscape. A well-kept lookout lined with Native American artisans selling handmade jewelry proves a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike. Though visitors warn Oak Creek Vista can get crowded, most agree its epic views are worth the trip.
Practical Info
Oak Creek Vista is located 13 miles north of Sedona. It is open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. April through November.
Address: Sedona, Arizona, USA
From $ 70
Old Tucson
Step back into the gunslingin’ Old West at Old Tucson, a movie studio and theme park located near the Tucson Mountains and Saguaro National Park in Arizona. Visitors to Old Tucson might think, ‘Hey! This place looks familiar!’ And that’s because this ‘town’ has been made famous as the location for more than 300 movies and television shows. From living history presentations to historic tours to shows and special events, Old Tucson really ‘brings it’ with the Western experience.
Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, or music, the gunfights and stunt shows based on traditional Western themes will fit the bill. There’s even a can-can musical in the saloon, featuring ‘Lady Vivian and her girls.’ Be sure to watch out for a traveling salesman who might try to pitch you a great deal on snake oil. In addition to all the fun and games, Old Tucson has an element that will appeal to history buffs — historians give presentations on topics like ‘The American Cowboy,’ ‘Sheriffs of the Old West’ (keeping the peace in the Wild West was no easy task!), ‘Life of a Miner,’ and ‘The Raucous Saloons.’
Practical Info
All park shows and tours are included in the admission price. Pricing for select special events may vary. Certain games, food, stagecoach, and trail rides are available for an additional fee. Please note: Schedule and availability of shows and attractions at Old Tucson are subject to change or cancellation depending to film projects and filming schedules. Group pricing is available for groups of 25 or more.
Address: 201 S Kinney Rd, Tucson, Arizona, USA 85735, USA
Hours: Old Tucson runs on a seasonal schedule, with opening hours that vary frequently.
Admission: Adults: $17.95; Children (ages 4-11): $10.95
From $ 15
Historic Heritage Square
Historic Heritage Square takes you back in time to Arizona’s Victorian past. The square is home to the only remaining residential structures of the original Phoenix town site. Heritage Square features eleven Victorian buildings, each with its own unique design, history, and purpose. Today, the buildings have been refurbished and reopened as museums, restaurants, and shops. Each building is designed to give visitors a taste of life back in the original Phoenix settlement. The Baird Machine Shop, for example, was built in 1929 as a commercial structure. Today it is home to Pizzeria Bianco, a local pizza place featuring a wood-burning brick oven, homemade mozzarella cheese, and locally grown vegetables.
The cornerstone of the square is the Rossen House, a 2,800 square feet (260 square meters), fully restored, Victorian home which is now regularly open for guided tours. Build in 1895, the home features ten rooms and five fireplaces. Exhibits such as “A Victorian Christmas” and “A Victorian Wedding” all help the museum capture and show life as it was in the early twentieth century.
Practical Info
The square is located within the Heritage and Science Park, which, in addition to Heritage Square, also includes the Arizona Science Center, the Phoenix Museum of History, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The park is located in downtown Phoenix on Northwest corner 6th Street and Monroe. Today, Heritage Square is run by Heritage Square Foundation and Guild, a non-profit organization which aims to preserve the historical value of the buildings while educating visitors through special exhibition, events, and activities.
Address: 115 North 6th Street, Phoenix 85004, USA
Hours: Hours vary for each building
Admission: Some attractions may have admission fees
From $ 15
Lost Dutchman State Park
The Lost Dutchman State Park covers 320 acres in the middle of Arizona, not far from the Superstition Mountains. The park was created in 1977, and it's named after the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. This perhaps-apocryphal mine is said to be full of gold, but its exact location is unknown (people have died trying to find it). It's believed to be in the Superstition Mountains not far from where the park is today.
Lost Dutchman State Park is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and camping, and there are even naturalist-led hikes and programs you can join. Periodically, the park hosts “Star Party” events during which you can see an incredible array of stars in the night sky over the park.
Practical Info
Lost Dutchman State Park is about 40 miles from Phoenix. Entry into the park costs $7 per vehicle, including up to four adults, or $3 per individual walker or cyclist. There are additional fees for camping, but the naturalist-led walks are included in the park entry fees.
Address: 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, Arizona 85119, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: $7 per vehicle or $3 per individual walker or cyclist
From $ 139
Navajo Reservation
From national monuments to parks and historical sites, the Navajo Reservation rewards visitors with one a kind scenery and history.
A variety of outdoor activities are available on the Navajo Reservation - from hiking to horseback riding, fishing and camping. Tours are offered to teach visitors about Navajo culture and history. There are also more than half a dozen museums.
You can easily spend more than just a day. Along with hotels, a bed and breakfast, camping and RV facilities you can also stay in a traditional eight sided one room home called a Hogan. It’s considered a sacred dwelling and furnishings are sparse. There’s no electricity, running water or flush toilet, so it’s not for everyone, but it is a one-of-a-kind authentic Navajo experience.
Practical Info
Many people speak Navajo, but English is also widely spoken, so communication is easy.
You’ll want to bring a camera, but use common sense and be respectful in regards to photography. Cameras are not always welcome, so when in doubt, ask.
Address: Navajo Indian Reservation, Arizona, USA, USA
From $ 181
Red Rock State Park
With views of ruddy cliffs everywhere you look, Red Rock State Park is a sight to behold. Trails slice through this 286-acre (116-hectare) nature preserve, winding through manzanita juniper shrubs toward the banks of Oak Creek. The visitor center offers numerous daily activities for guests, including nature walks and naturalist activities.
The Basics
The famous red rock scenery of Sedona is at its best within the bounds of this popular state park—a perfect place to enjoy Arizona's scenic natural beauty. While Sedona is a popular getaway in its own right, many travelers choose to visit Red Rock State Park on a day trip from Phoenix. A typical Jeep tour through the area will include the park, as well as Chapel of the Holy Cross and Bell Rock. Some itineraries also take visitors to Montezuma Castle or Tuzigoot national monuments.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Red Rock State Park is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection; the high desert sun can be intense, even in winter.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Handicap accessible restrooms can be found at the Visitor Center and Twin Cypress group use area.
How to Get There
The Red Rock State Park is located on the western end of Sedona and is about one hour south of Flagstaff. The easiest way to visit is to join a guided tour from Sedona or Phoenix or drive yourself.
When to Get There
The park is open daily throughout the year, with extended hours during the summer months (mid May to late August). The best time to visit is in spring (March to May) when temperatures are warm but not baking and desert wildflowers are in bloom.
Trails of Red Rock State Park
This state park’s trail system comprises 10 developed trails covering some five miles (eight kilometers). The Eagle’s Nest Loop takes visitors to the highest point in the park, while the Javelina Trail passes through serene piñon and juniper woodlands. Those looking for a longer hike can tackle the Lime Kiln Trail, a 15-mile (24-kilometer) shared-use trail connecting Red Rock State Park to nearby Dead Horse Ranch State Park.
Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona 86336, USA
From $ 76
Grandview Point
Located in the southernmost point on the Grand Canyon’s south rim, Grandview Point is accessible via a one-mile side road off of East Rim Drive. Travelers agree the panoramic views from this famous vista are some of the park’s most impressive. Easy hiking trails wind through narrow ridges and well-preserved nature, giving travelers the opportunity to stretch their legs while driving the popular pass along Highway 64. But it’s the epic views and scenic landscape that make Grandview Point a quintessential Grand Canyon stop.
Practical Info
Grandview Point is half way between Desert View and Grand Canyon Village off of Highway 64. For the best photos, wander down Grandview Trail to avoid the trees at the official overlook.
Address: Coconino, AZ, USA
From $ 108
Saguaro Lake
Located just outside of Phoenix, Saguaro Lake is the westernmost lake in the Salt River Project – a series of reservoirs on the Salt River, which include the famous Roosevelt Dam, built in order to sustain agricultural activities in the area and to provide drinking water to the Phoenix metropolitan area. Today, the lake is a recreational area famous for its fishing and its stunning scenery, characterized by Arizona’s signature cactus trees (the lake was, after all, named after the Saguaro Cactus) and dramatic landscapes of Stewart Mountain.
Saguaro Lake is the fourth reservoir of the Salt River Project, and is formed by the Stewart Mountain Dam. At 1264 hectares large and 90 feet deep, Saguaro Lake makes for a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts; rainbow and brown trout, several types of bass, crappie, sunfish, channel catfish and carp are found abundantly in the lake, which is regularly stocked by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The lake is home to a quaint marina which includes the Lakeshore Restaurant and a boat concession, as well as picnic tables, boat ramps, narrated double-deck boat tours, restrooms and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s station.
Practical Info
The Stewart Mountain Dam as such is a 1,260-foot-long and 207-foot-high concrete, thin-arch dam built in 1928. It contains a hydroelectric generating unit mainly operated in the summer months. Saguaro Lake is located 41 miles outside Phoenix, Arizona in the municipality of Mesa. It can be reached in 50 minutes by car via routes 202 and 87. The area is open daily until 8pm from April through September. There are free, year-round camping facilities onsite.
Address: Tonto National Forest, Arizona, USA
Hours: Daily until 8pm from April through September
From $ 23
Page
Page, Arizona, is a town in the northern part of the state. It sits on top of Manson Mesa overlooking Lake Powell, and it is the gateway to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Navajo Nation. The town was established in 1957 as a work camp for the builders of Glen Canyon Dam. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area covers more than 1.2 million acres and stretches for hundreds of miles from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah. It includes Lake Powell, which is the second largest man-made lake in the United States and extends more than 180 miles up the Colorado River. It is a popular lake that offers visitors opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating and other water activities.
A few miles south of Page, within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is Horseshoe Bend, which is a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River. The 1,000-foot drop created by the river can be viewed from the steep cliffs. Another popular attraction not far from Page is Antelope Canyon. This slot canyon, located on Navajo land, was formed by water millions of years ago. Page is a great town for water activities such as rafting down the Colorado River and for exploring Navajo parks, nearby canyons and national parks.
Practical Info
Page, Arizona, is just a few miles south of the Utah border, and it can be reached from US Highway 89.
Address: Page 86036, USA
From $ 80
Mother Road Brewing Company
To sample some of Flagstaff’s best craft beers, head to Mother Road Brewing Company. Named after Historic Route 66, which was nicknamed the Mother Road in its heyday, the brewery sits just a couple blocks from the iconic highway that runs through the center of town. The brewery is located in the Milum Building, a former commercial laundromat that has been repurposed in an ideal spot to grab a pint after a day of adventuring in the surrounding mountains and high desert. Their artfully crafted beers include complex flavors like the mesquite honey and British hops of the English Barleywine-style 4th Anniversary Ale or the coffee and orange notes of the popular chocolate stout Lost Highway.
Practical Info
While Mother Road doesn’t serve food, it does have an arrangement with Pizzicleta, in the same building, so patrons can order pizzas from their barstool. For visitors interested in learning more about the production side, the brewery offers weekly tours every Saturday afternoon at 3pm for $10, which include two 10-ounce beers, along with coasters and stickers as souvenirs.
Address: 7 South Mikes Pike, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA 86001, USA
Hours: Open Mon-Thurs: 2pm-9pm; Fri: 2pm-10pm; Sat: 12pm-10pm; Sun: 12pm-9pm
Admission: $10
From $ 49
Oak Creek Canyon
The road that winds 16 miles (26 kilometers) through leafy Oak Creek Canyon is the most scenic route between Sedona and Flagstaff or the Grand Canyon. With dramatic red rock formations to either side, the gorge is an outdoor playground for camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
The Basics
A scenic drive through beautiful Oak Creek Canyon is well worth the effort whether or not you actually need to travel north from Sedona. Grand Canyon day trips from Sedona pass through the gorge, as do small-group tours of the Sedona area (along with visits to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Airport Mesa) and multi-day itineraries through Arizona.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Oak Creek Canyon is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and photographers.
- Plan ahead: The drive is lovely but there aren’t many places to pull off and enjoy the scenery.
- Be sure to bring along sun protection and plenty of drinking water, as it’s easy to get dehydrated in the arid climate.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces if you plan to get out of the car and explore.
How to Get There
Arizona State Route 89A runs through Oak Creek Canyon from Sedona to just outside Flagstaff. Driving allows for the chance to stop at your leisure to take in the natural beauty, while a guided day tour around Sedona or to the Grand Canyon eliminates the hassle of having to rent a car.
When to Get There
Oak Creek Canyon is stunning year-round, so deciding when to visit is largely a matter of preference. Hikers come to enjoy the desert wildflowers from March to May, while summer brings temperatures warm enough for swimming at Slide Rock State Park or Grasshopper Point. The canyon is particularly impressive in autumn when the oaks amid the evergreen forest display their fall foliage.
Hiking in Oak Creek Canyon
This area of Sedona has hiking trails for just about every ability level. The most popular route is the 6-mile (10-kilometer) round trip along the West Fork of Oak Creek, where the canyon walls rise up more than 200 feet on either side at points.
Address: Oak Creek Canyon, AZ, USA
From $ 48
Mission San Xavier del Bac
Located in nearby Tucson, Mission San Xavier del Bac is a Spanish Catholic mission dating from 1692 when it was founded by Father Eusebio Francisco Kino, a Jesuit missionary. At the time the area was an Indian village, and Kino was the first non-Indian to visit the place, which was then known as Wa:k (although he wrote “Bac,”). It is he who called for the construction of the church, named in honor of San Francisco Xavier; however, the church needed to be rebuilt after 1770 due to destruction from Apache attacks.
Because at this time Spanish Jesuits were banned from the Americas, it was rebuilt under the eye of the Franciscans. This is a unique facet of Mission San Xavier del Bac, as it’s one of the few Arizona missions still led by Franciscans, with mass still taking place. Additionally, the church is touted as the oldest European structure in Arizona still intact, and often the country’s best example of Spanish Colonial architecture.
As soon as you arrive at the site, you’ll understand why it’s known as the “White Dove of the Desert.” The structure is done in white adobe with a sand-colored ornate entrance, which appears striking against the cacti-filled desert landscape. Inside, original statuary, frescos and sculptures bring history to life with such beauty even non-religious visitors can appreciate it. In fact, the artwork is a highlight of a visit. It is recommended to take a tour with a docent -- which typically take place 9:30am, 10:30am 11:30am and 12:30pm, although call first to confirm -- to really grasp the history of the mission and understand what you’re looking at in the church and museum areas. Before leaving, light a prayer candle and browse the gift shop for a momento of your trip.
Practical Info
Mission San Xavier del Bac is free to enter, and is open 7am to 5pm daily. The mass schedule is Saturday Vigil at 5:30pm; Sunday 8:00am, 11:00am, 12:30pm; Monday through Friday 6:30am (Juan Diego Chapel); Tuesday through Friday 8:30am (Mission church).
Address: 1950 W. San Xavier Road, Tucson, Arizona 85746, USA
From $ 154
Old Town Scottsdale
The city of Scottsdale sits adjacent to Phoenix, attracting visitors by the bus-load to Scottsdale Old Town. This older section of town is also its main cultural hub, thronged with dining, drinking, shopping and nightlife options.
Native American crafts, jewelry and artworks are sold in this downtown arts district, and galleries and outdoor sculptures add to the cultural feel. It’s also where you’ll find museums like Scottsdale’s Museum of Contemporary Art and the city’s historical museum.
Walking tours highlight the old town’s Old West character, with hitching posts from the days when horses were ridden through town and quaint stores selling Western gear.
Address: Scottsdale, USA
From $ 38
Grand Canyon Railway
Combining the mystique of the Wild West with the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, the Grand Canyon Railway has been delighting riders since 1901. As you make the two-hour trip to the canyon from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim, you’ll be entertained by authentic characters and musicians who bring the Old West to life, all the while soaking up the unforgettable scenery of Grand Canyon National Park.
The Basics
For many, a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is a quintessential Grand Canyon experience. It’s possible to ride the railway one way, or choose a round-trip ticket that allows for almost four hours to explore the national park. Most travelers ride the passenger train as part of a day trip to the canyon from Williams, though it’s also possible to spend a night at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel or Maswik Lodge for a more leisurely exploration.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Grand Canyon Railway is popular among kids and families.
- Dress in layers and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.
- Both coach and first-class cars are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Grand Canyon Railways departs daily at 9:35am from Williams, Arizona. It makes the 65-mile (105-kilometer) trip to the Grand Canyon in a little over two hours, and once there, visitors have roughly four hours to explore before heading back toward Williams at 3:30pm. Expect to arrive at the Williams train depot around 5:45pm. The closest commercial airport to Williams is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, about 45 minutes away by road. Phoenix Sky Harbor is about 2.5 hours away by road.
When to Get There
The best time to ride the Grand Canyon Railway is during spring and autumn, when temperatures at the Grand Canyon are cooler and crowds more sparse than in the peak summer season when the train operates two departures daily. Summer visitors can expect temperatures upwards of 85°F (30°C). The first Saturday of each month from March through October is Steam Saturday, when a steam locomotive pulls the train to Grand Canyon National Park.
Special Events Aboard the Grand Canyon Railway
Depending on the season, passengers might be in for a special treat on this historic train. In fall, kids can put on their favorite Halloween costume and ride the Pumpkin Patch Train for a journey through the countryside to a secret pumpkin patch. During the holidays, the railway transforms into the Polar Express, complete with a nighttime ride to see Santa and his reindeer.
Address: 233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd., Williams, Arizona 86046, USA
From $ 148
Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a reservoir—the second-largest man-made reservoir in the United States, actually—in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area on the border of Arizona and Utah. Known for its many sandy beaches, sparkling blue water, and red-rock landscapes, this fun vacation spot is one of Arizona’s top attractions. Some of the lake’s famous features include the Glen Canyon Dam (located in Arizona) and the Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the world’s longest natural bridges (located in Utah).
The Basics
Recreation is king at Lake Powell with excellent boating, water skiing, jet-skiing, kayaking, and fishing. Boat tours grant visitors a leisurely overview of the lake and its landscapes, or you can charter your own boat for the day. You can also admire Lake Powell from the air by airplane or helicopter tour. A trip to Lake Powell is often combined with other top Arizona sights, including the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Day trips that include Lake Powell depart from the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Flagstaff, and are typically 8–10 hours long.
- Lake Powell temperatures are frequently between 90 and 100°F (32 to 38°C) in summer. Be sure to bring sun protection as needed.
- There are prepared campsites at all of the lake’s marinas, but you are also free to camp wherever you like.
How to Get There
To access the southwestern end of Lake Powell in Arizona, take U.S. Route 89 and State Route 98. Antelope Canyon is four miles (6.5 kilometers) up from the Glen Canyon Dam on Antelope Island. Boat tours often include round-trip transportation from nearby areas.
When to Get There
The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is open year-round, but may have reduced facilities during winter months. July and August may have thunderstorms, and shoulder seasons (May and October) provide the best weather with minimal crowds.
The Best of Lake Powell Boating
Lake Powell is one of the most popular houseboat destinations in the country. But if you’re just visiting for the day, there are plenty of great options ranging from dinner cruises to kayaking that will enable you to access some of the Colorado River’s most scenic slot canyons. Boat trips and canyon tours depart frequently from Wahweap Marina and Antelope Point Marina.
Address: USA
From $ 689
Mogollon Rim
Sky-high cliffs of pale limestone and sandstone give this spectacular natural wonder its recognizable color. Its shaded canyons, creeks and ledges, juxtaposed with brilliant blue skies and lush green plains, make for breathtaking photo ops of the American Southwest. Travelers can wander the Ponderosa Pine forests and revel at age-old growth here, or navigate the trails that follow Fossil Creek Canyon and Pine Canyon through impressive landscapes and breathtaking beauty. After exploring the Mogollon Rim, visitors can explore the nearby towns of Payson or Sedona, where red rock culture, Native American influence and desert life give way to an almost spiritual existence for residents.
Practical Info
Mogollon Rim is located in the town of Pason and stretches from Yavapai County to the border of New Mexico. The rim forms the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau.
Address: Arizona, USA
From $ 109
Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix
The Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix was originally opened in 1995, and then relocated in 2002 to its present downtown location.
The new cafe has 8,000 square feet of space in which to welcome diners and guests, right in downtown Phoenix in Copper Square. It's close to the many sports venues as well as the Arizona Science Center and the convention center, making it an easy place to enjoy that famous Hard Rock food before or after an event.
The Hard Rock Cafe in Phoenix, like all Hard Rock Cafes, has a restaurant focusing on traditional American favorites, plus a full bar with a lively atmosphere. There's a shop at the same location selling all the Hard Rock Cafe memorabilia.
Practical Info
Phoenix's Hard Rock Cafe is in the Collier Center, and the restaurant, bar, and Rock Shop are all open Sunday-Thursday 11am-11pm, and Friday-Saturday 11am-12am.
Address: 3 S 2nd St, Phoenix, Arizona 85004, USA
Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm, and Fri-Sat 11am-12am
From $ 32
Kaibab National Forest
This huge 1.6 million-acre National Forest park, divided into three distinct sections both north and south of the Grand Canyon, is more than just juniper, spruce and pine forest as the name implies—it is also comprised of grassland prairies, rocky riverbeds, scrubland and peaks like Kendrick Mountain at 10,418 feet.
Popular for its Grand Canyon-esque ecosystems without the crowds, the first decision visitors will have to make is which section to visit. The Williams District in the far south is home to the park’s visitor, which carries maps and brochures of area activities, while the Tusayan District abutting the southern edge of Grand Canyon National Park has popular hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails through its varied elevation. The North Kaibab District—bisected by the Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Scenic Byway (State Highway 67), past sinkhole ponds and Ponderosa pines—is the largest area and stretches most of the way to Utah.
In total, the forest area boasts six campgrounds and more than 300 trail options affording chances to glimpse whitetail deer, elk, turkey or coyote. Three historic cabins—Hull Cabin in the Tusayan District, Jumpup Cabin in North Kaibab and Spring Valley Cabin in the Williams District—are available for rent. Several Grand Canyon helicopter and plane tours departing from the airport in Tusayan afford the chance to double-dip and take in the National Forest en route to the Grand Canyon’s grandeur.
Practical Info
Unless you have a specific trail or activity in mind, the Williams and Forest Service Visitor Center is a good place to start. It’s open daily from 8 a.m. til 6:30 p.m. in the summer and from 8 a.m. til 5 p.m. in the off-season.
Address: 800 S 6th St, Williams, Arizona 86046, USA
Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. til 6:30 p.m. in the summer and from 8 a.m. til 5 p.m. in the off-season.
From $ 150