Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Arizona. #Top Attractions

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You must visit Arizona at least once in your lifetime. Check out the list of the best things to do in Arizona and places to go in Arizona below. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

With the American Southwest’s most iconic and otherworldly landscapes and numerous towns and cities to visit, it can be said that seeing all of the best places in Arizona is a challenging task.

Even though the Grand Canyon is a magnet, other natural features, museums, and family-friendly activities keep visitors coming back for more.

Please make the most of your stay in Arizona with our handy Arizona bucket list!

Whether you’re looking for a place to stay, a place to hike, or a location to see some of Arizona’s (literally) hidden jewels, this list of beautiful places in Arizona to visit will have you dreaming of desert sunsets in no time.

Arizona is a great vacation spot for families and solo travelers alike, making it ideal for groups of all kinds and ages to vacation there.

Suppose you’re looking for something to do indoors or out. In that case, you can go shopping, dine at a Native American restaurant, play golf, or watch your favorite sports team play.

Here are some of the state’s most famous sights and experiences to have that will surely leave you in awe

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Canyon de Chelly National Monument Arizona
Canyon de Chelly National Monument Arizona / Ron Cogswell / Flickr

Considering a trip to the great state of Arizona?

There is nothing like a breathtaking Native American heritage site to inspire you.

Then again, there are a few things more intriguing than that!

Look up Canyon de Chelly National Monument, located within the Navajo Nation and home to the Anasazi and Navajo peoples who have lived there for nearly 5,000 years without interruption.

However, even though it’s entirely in ruins, it’s still worth seeing.

Take a guided tour or a free ranger-led hike to witness the incredible sight of all these cliff houses perched high above and carved into Canyon de Chelly’s sheer face.

A self-guided hike and some of the ruins are still open to the public, although it’s challenging to get into most of the complex these days.

What better way to learn about the region’s rich heritage than to stop in while you’re here?

It’s one of the best things to do in Arizona!

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon Arizona
Grand Canyon Arizona / Paul Fundenburg / Flickr

Arizona will not be Arizona without the Grand Canyon.

This ancient gorge, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, is the most iconic spot in the entire state. It’s also been dubbed one of the world’s most beautiful parks!

Whether you visit the South Rim or the North Rim, the Grand Canyon is a sanctuary for adventure.

There are literally hundreds of routes to select from, all of varying lengths and difficulties so that hikers of all levels can find something that suits them.

Explore the canyon by white-water rafting on the Colorado River, or take a look at how the Earth’s history is on show in the canyon’s walls.

There are also mule rides available if you prefer not to stroll!

All in all, the Grand Canyon is a must-see if you’re a fan of the great outdoors or a novice geologist.

It’s quite awe-inspiring to see this geological wonder in person, and it’s well worth the effort to visit!

This must-see attraction in Arizona should be on your list of places to visit.

When you explore Arizona, check out the best things to do in Scottsdale, things to do in Phoenix, best things to do in Flagstaff and best things to do in Tuscon.

Party Jungle

Party Jungle Arizona, USA
Party Jungle is one of the best places to go in Arizona, USA

Keeping the kids entertained is a full-time job for parents. Fortunately, there’s a place in Arizona that will do all the work for you! Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Party Jungle is the largest indoor playground in the state. Carnival rides, mini-golf, laser tag, an arcade, and a big jungle gym are all included in the park’s attractions.

Featuring one of the state’s largest indoor playgrounds, Party Jungle caters to children ages two to ten with its animal-themed theme park.

You’ll have a hard time figuring out where to begin when you enter.

Rides such as swings and barrel twisters are included in the playground’s five carnival-style attractions.

An arcade filled with classics like air hockey and the latest and greatest games.

Other attractions include an animal-themed miniature golf course…

Stop by the on-site restaurant if your stomach starts to rumble after a long day of gaming.

It is a complete fun for your kids so be sure to visit it when you are in Arizona!

Address: 12046 N 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85028, United States

Want to know what the US has to offer? Check out the most adventurous things to do in USA. Have fun exploring the US!

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Arizona
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Arizona / LASZLO ILYES / Flickr

Looking for a perfect place to unwind when you need a break from everyday life?

Then Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is for you!

There are six swimming pools, a white-sand beach, and other luxurious amenities at this five-star hotel in Arizona. If you’re looking for a desert getaway, this is your place.

The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has a tropical paradise waiting for you no matter the season.

Standard guestrooms and oceanfront suites are both available, all of which are rated five stars.

While the Princess offers a wide range of activities, swimming is unquestionably the most popular.

Princess Cruises offers a variety of on-site dining options, including five restaurants and bars.

Sonoran Splash’s two 200-foot-long twisting water slides are sure to keep the kids entertained.

Sunset Beach, the resort’s largest pool area, with 9,000 square feet of pure white sand for your toes to sink into.

Is there anything better than this setting to enjoy a meal? Make sure to include this hotel in your travel plans because it has a lot more to offer!

Address: 7575 E Princess Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, United States

Sydney’s Sweet Shoppe

Sydney’s Sweet Shoppe Arizona, USA
Sydney’s Sweet Shoppe is one of the best places to go in Arizona, USA

For those who enjoy sweets (and, let’s face it, who doesn’t?), you must visit Sydney’s Sweet Shoppe in Tucson. Some of Arizona’s best pies are baked daily in this modest bakery using fresh ingredients and lots of care.

As one might expect from a bakery in Tucson’s Bear Canyon Center, Sydney’s Sweet Shoppe serves up some of the state’s best pies.

There are approximately two dozen varieties of pie on the menu, including a number of seasonal offerings.

A pumpkin pie’s aroma entices people from the street to stop and smell the goods during the holidays.

Sour cream cheesecake and Texas sheet cake are two other desserts Sydney has on its menu, but they aren’t its primary focus.

If you don’t need an entire pie, the shop also carries personal-sized, 3-inch, and 5-inch pies.

Have a hard time deciding? Bring home a little bit of everything; your sweet tooth will thank you.

Address: 8969 E Tanque Verde Rd Ste 209, Tucson, AZ 85749, United States

Turtle Beach Bar

Turtle Beach Bar Arizona, USA
Turtle Beach Bar is one of the best places to go in Arizona, USA

So, you don’t think the Caribbean and Arizona have much in common? This is because you haven’t tried Turtle Beach Bar yet. A slice of tropical heaven, complete with swaying palms, sparkling blue waters, and unobstructed views of the lake, this resort offers it all.

Nautical Beachfront Resort in Lake Havasu’s sole beachfront hotel, which also happens to be the home of the Turtle Beach Bar.

If you’re looking for a great beach bar in the state of Arizona, go no further than this establishment.

Its location on the shores of a lake, however, is more than just a bonus.

It’s also possible to arrive by boat. Use the courtesy docks to park your boat on the sand or in the shallow water.

It’s not just the beach that has a tropical vibe.

Turtle Beach Bar is the ideal spot to relax and celebrate with those you care about from the food to the atmosphere.

What about your critters? The Turtle Beach Bar is pet-friendly, so that’s correct.

Visit this lovely beach in Arizona as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain Arizona
Camelback Mountain Arizona / Andy Blackledge / Flickr

The tale of how a camel gained its hump may be known to some of us.

Inquiring about its origins, have you ever wondered how the mountain obtained its head?

We think you’ll enjoy the answer!

Camelback Mountain is one of Arizona’s most popular tourist attractions because of its distinctive shape and location.

History students might be interested in exploring the historical sites atop this mountain, which was formerly home to many pre-colonial Native Americans.

But geologists have the most fun here.

The shape of the “camel’s” head results from the red sandstone degrading quicker than the granite lying on it, resulting in its peculiar form.

How did the older granite wind up on top of the younger, fresher sandstone in this particular area of the mountain?

Why don’t you stop by and see if you can figure it out for yourself?

Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory Arizona
Lowell Observatory Arizona / Scarlet Sappho / Flickr

Get everyone in the car and head to one of Arizona’s most kid-friendly tourist destinations today!

Did you know that Pluto was discovered nearly 100 years ago at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, and it’s still a treat for visitors of all ages?

Various activities are available, including stargazing from an open-air deck and seeing through the same telescope that the Apollo 11 crew used for training.

Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, is one of the most incredible family-friendly activities since it is entertaining and instructive.

From the very start to the end of your stay, you can expect abundant educational experiences.

Discover the inner workings of a wide array of telescopes up close and personal.

There are various ways to take in the night sky, and they’re all included in the price of public entry.

Six state-of-the-art telescopes are available for public use at the Giovale Open Deck Observatory, making it a popular destination for families.

Stargazing is permitted on the deck from twilight till dawn, weather permitting.

Take a trip around the galaxy with Lowell Observatory!

Address: 1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls Arizona
Havasu Falls Arizona / Sean Hagen / Flickr

If you’ve already decided to go sightseeing, why not head to Havasupai Falls, one of Arizona’s most stunning attractions?

To go to the Havasu Cavern, located in the middle of the Grand Canyon on the Havasupai tribe, you’ll need a permit from the National Park Service.

This spot in Arizona is still a little-known secret in its grandeur!

The most famous of these waterfalls, the Havasu Falls, is a turquoise cascade so vivid that it’s hard to believe the water pouring through it isn’t transparent.

It’s not easy to get there, unfortunately.

It’s a long and arduous journey to get into the reservation, so you’ll need a permit.

In addition to Havasu Falls, the climb goes by four other waterfalls on the way.

What, exactly, is it that gives the water its entrancing hue?

The water temperature at Havasu Falls remains a pleasant 70 degrees year-round, giving us another reason to fall in love with the place.

You can always go for a swim, no matter the season!

Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room

Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room Arizona, USA
Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room is one of the best places to go in Arizona, USA

How long would you be willing to risk your life to travel to a different world? To make this possible for you, a Japanese artist has developed an ingenious and original idea in his eighties. However, only about 100,000 people are expected to see a spectacular show of her incredible work in Ario when it opens there.

You’ll want to see Yayoi Kusama’s work while it’s on display in Cleveland because it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Patterns and polka dots have characterized Yayoi Kusama’s extraordinary work since the 1960s.

These mirror shows by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama are filled with trippy patterns and colors that seem to go on forever.

The use of lighting and music in each Infinity Mirror room creates an ethereal atmosphere that transports guests to another dimension.

The exhibit, Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors, commemorates the artist’s decades of work while allowing visitors to escape to a fantasy realm.

Overall, it’s a work of art you should see at least once in your lifetime while visiting Arizona!

Address: 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village Arizona, USA
Image for illustration purposes only

When it comes to Sedona shopping, Tlaquepaque is the place to go. If you want to spend a whole day in this outdoor shopping village in Arizona, more than 50 shops and galleries are available. It’s also based on a Mexican hamlet, and the joyful vibe is infectious.

You should definitely spend some time at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village in Sedona if you’ve never been.

You won’t be able to get enough ivy-covered stucco walls, cobblestone walkways, or an architectural style that takes you back in time to Tlaquepaque – which means “the greatest of everything.”

There are more than 50 specialty shops to explore, from handcrafted jewelry to the most recent fashion trends on the market today.

Some of the world’s greatest painters and sculptors have made their homes in Tlaquepaque.

The city hosts various seasonal events, from farmers’ markets in the summer to a Christmastime luminary celebration.

There’s something for every family and friends visiting this place, whether you want a leisurely lunch or a fast cup of coffee!

There’s something for everyone, whether you want a leisurely lunch or a fast cup of coffee.

The White Rabbit

The White Rabbit Arizona
The White Rabbit Arizona / USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr

Speakeasies haven’t gone away, despite the end of prohibition. One can find an underground pub in Arizona beneath the streets of Gilbert. If you locate and decipher the secret password, a roaring good time awaits you.

To find a hidden bar in downtown Gilbert, follow the white rabbit down a secret staircase and through a concealed door.

There is no doubt that East Valley cocktail culture will continue to thrive thanks to the White Rabbit Bar, which opened in 2018.

Embrace a world of Prohibition-era sex and mystery as you descend into the depths of the city’s sewers.

Incorporating a plot into the bar just heightens the tension more.

At The White Rabbit, the drinks are almost too pretty to drink, especially the ones.

Put on your best Gatsby-style attire and visit Gilbert’s The White Rabbit – if you can find it.

Address: 207 N Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

Tucson’s Desert Botanical Garden

Tucson’s Desert Botanical Garden Arizona, USA
Tucson’s Desert Botanical Garden is one of the best places to go in Arizona, USA

Once a month, the adage “the finest things in life are free” comes true at Tucson’s Desert Botanical Garden. The second Tuesday of each month, dubbed “Community Day,” is admission-free, making it a great day trip for families or anybody wishing to see Arizona on a budget.

According to cartoons, movies, and television, the desert is nothing more than miles and miles of dunes punctuated with cacti.

If we’re lucky, we might find a palm-tree-lined oasis!

However, this is not the case in reality.

On the other hand, Desert places such as Arizona are teeming with magnificent plant life. The Desert Botanical Garden serves as a prime example.

This garden boasts over 4,000 species and is brimming with all the floral splendor a desert can generate.

So, if you’re still looking for things to do in Arizona, why not check out this garden?

It will undoubtedly be a pleasant journey that will defy your preconceived notions of what a desert should be like!

Heritage Square in Phoenix

Heritage Square in Phoenix Arizona
Heritage Square in Phoenix Arizona / David Taylor / Flickr

You don’t need a time machine to travel back to the nineteenth century, not when locations like Heritage Square in Phoenix exist. The Rosson House, an 1895 Queen Anne Victorian-style palace that immortalizes the early days of our capital city, is located on this charming city block that has been frozen in time. It’ll be a fun and enlightening experience for the whole family.

Heritage Square, located on Block 14 of the original Phoenix townsite, provides a fascinating look into our city’s history.

With antique furnishings and period décor in every area, touring the museum is like going back.

As you travel around the house, you’ll be following in the footsteps of four different families that lived there at other times in history.

The tour should take about 45 minutes, giving visitors plenty of time to slow down and absorb the delicate intricacies.

Why not walk around Heritage Square and see what else to know before you leave?

Many attractive stores and restaurants in the vicinity, including the world-renowned Pizzeria Bianco. Grab a slice, and your taste buds will thank you!

Address: 115 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Steak & Stone in Mesa

Steak & Stone in Mesa Arizona, USA
Steak & Stone in Mesa is one of the best places to go in Arizona, USA

What if you order a steak from a restaurant that comes out medium-rare or medium-well, but it’s either too harsh to eat or is almost still alive? Those days are over, thank goodness! 

You can watch jets take off and land at Falcon Field while cooking your artisan cut of meat at Mesa’s Steak & Stone.

Steak & Stone in Mesa, Arizona, has a great view of Falcon Field and is an excellent place for a romantic date or a family supper (pun intended).

There is a lot of indoor seating, and all of the tables have beautiful views of the runway.

Diners can also enjoy the restaurant’s outdoor patio if the weather permits.

First things first: freshly baked bread and the most decadent whipped butter you’ve ever tasted to begin your meal.

All artisan meats are cooked on a 500-degree cooking stone during the main course. In other words, you’re in charge of the evening’s meal preparation.

Oh, and don’t forget to spare space for dessert, either. Bread pudding, peach cobbler, hot brownie a-la-mode, and more are just some of the desserts offered.

Address: 2613 N Thunderbird Cir #2503, Mesa, AZ 85215, United States

Golfland Sunsplash

Golfland Sunsplash Arizona
Golfland Sunsplash Arizona / ray_explores / Flickr

As the summers in Arizona may be unbearably hot, the state’s abundance of water parks is a huge boon. Golfland Sunsplash in Mesa, Arizona, is one of those parks that doesn’t get the attention it truly deserves.

Golfland is more than simply a waterpark; it offers a wide range of family-friendly activities like laser tag and go-karts and its many water attractions. It’s a great time to unleash your childlike spirit!

In addition to nearly a dozen waterpark rides, Golfland Sunsplash has many additional family-friendly attractions.

Fun for kids and adults alike awaits, thanks to several activities that cater to various ages and interests.

These include a lazy river, wave and activity pools, and some splash pads for the little ones.

A lazy river, wave and activity pools, and splash pads just for kids are a few of the more low-key attractions.

Golfland is a great place to get your adrenaline pumping.

Address: 155 W Hampton Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210, United States

Spooky’s

Spooky’s Arizona, USA
Spooky’s is one of the best places to go in Arizona, USA

Those who love horror films and have a sweet tooth will be delighted to learn that there is a bakery in Arizona just for them. Chandler’s Spooky’s Swirls offers gluten-free, horror, and sci-fi-themed treats, and the store is decked up in movie memorabilia.

Spooky’s Swirls, a gluten-free bakery in Chandler, Arizona, serves up delights so good that they’re a little unnerving.

You’ll be lured to the store’s collection of horror movie paraphernalia before you notice the dessert case.

There’s an entire museum dedicated to horror film props, costumes, and memorabilia right on the property.

Aside from horror-themed cakes, Spooky’s also bakes personalized cakes for all kinds of special occasions!

At Spooky’s, many of the desserts are horror-themed, like the “Crystal Lake Cake” topped with Jason Voorhees’s hockey mask from Friday the 13th.

Visit Spooky’s to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Address: 3029 N Alma School Rd #117, Chandler, AZ 85224, United States

Arizona Museum of Natural History

Arizona Museum of Natural History Arizona
Arizona Museum of Natural History Arizona / Greg Goebel / Flickr

Here in the Grand Canyon State, there’s a location where you may stroll with the dinosaurs. The Arizona Museum of Natural History is a perfect place to take the whole family on a journey through time.

The Arizona Museum of Natural History, which is located in Mesa, is a must-see for visitors of any age.

Even though there are a few dozen exhibits, most visitors come to see dinosaurs.

With life-size replicas of dinosaurs, you can see these prehistoric creatures up and personal at Dinosaur Hall.

Dinosaur Mountain takes you on an interactive tour through the three different eras in which dinosaurs existed in the following room.

As soon as you step outdoors, you’ll see more dinosaurs, so don’t think the adventure has ended.

Exhibits on Arizona history, indigenous cultures of the Americas, and many other themes can be found throughout the museum.

The fun doesn’t stop there, so include this in your itinerary.

Address: 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201, United States

Box Canyon Trail

Box Canyon Trail Arizona
Box Canyon Trail Arizona / The Greater Southwestern Exploration Company / Flickr

One of the best things about hiking to a waterfall is that it doesn’t require much effort. Box Canyon Trail, which is less than a mile long, leads to the most spectacular waterfall swimming spot you’ll ever encounter. Prepare to be a hit!

Box Canyon Trail is one of Arizona’s shortest and most enjoyable treks, measuring only 0.8 miles.

Moderate in difficulty, appropriate for hikers of all ages and abilities.

Despite only gaining 150 feet in elevation, the climb rewards you with some of the most stunning views you’ve ever seen.

The fantastic waterfall swimming spot is most hikers’ only draw of the Box Canyon Trail.

After the short hike, you’ll have plenty of time to cool off in the swimming hole.

As a whole, the Box Canyon Trail is a must-do hike in the spring and summer.

I guarantee it will soon become one of your favorite places to visit.

Still unsure about making Arizona your next destination? Visit why visit Arizona at least once in your lifetime here.

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