Are you ready to go on a trip that you’ll never forget? The state of Arizona is beckoning you and it’s about time you responded to the call! Arizona is a beautiful place, and whether it is for its incredible landscapes, the effusiveness of its people, or the endless options in varying outdoor activities, all that is true.
From beginners to experienced adventure seekers, our guide caters to all adrenaline-junkies and Zen-seekers, making sure of an unforgettable journey! Forget the hectic life and wave a goodbye to the monotonous things, because this escapade will bring you all the joys of life you didn’t know you needed!
Here they are, now you can pick what you want to do and set out for experiencing things that you should not miss in Arizona!
A Brief overview of Arizona’s Diverse Attractions
Arizona offers a variety of tourist attractions that suit all kinds of travelers. The Grand Canyon on the other end, which is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is a sight to behold, is the most awe-inspiring. Sedona is the red rock formations and spiritual vortexes that are so colorful and vibrant.
Those who are interested in the outdoors can go to the Hiking Trails in the Sonoran Desert which is a preserved natural area or go paddleboarding across the sea of Antelope. Fans of archaeology have numerous ancient ruins of Native Americans and classic towns such as Tombstone to choose from.
If you want to see the spectacular view of the Grand Canyon, camp in Canyonlands, or take a hot-air balloon ride, then you will love Arizona.
Day 1: Phoenix and Scottsdale
Go through Phoenix and Scottsdale on the first day. Explore the interesting places and be curious to find out things to do in these vibrant cities.
1. Climb Camelback Mountain
Start your trek with Camelback Mountain. This is Phoenix’s famous vacation spot, which consists of two trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla. Both of these trails offer spectacular views of the urban sky.
You must have your sporty shoes on and bring a lot of water with you when you take on this challenge.
2. Discover Desert Botanical Garden
Now, notice the present sight of the Desert Botanical Garden. Within 50,000 plants of the desert, this oasis shows off the original plants of the region.
Roam around the themed parks and discover the flora preservation programs of the park.
3. See Heard Museum
Immerse yourself in Arizona’s history through exhibitions at the Heard Museum. The museum is very famous for its large Native American art collection. The exhibits here are full of both an educational and enjoyable experience. And it is a great idea to attend the live presentation that is offered on the side.
4. Take A Walk in Old Town Scottsdale
Finish off your day by meandering through Old Town Scottsdale. It is the more relaxed part of the city. It has a good mixture of art galleries, boutiques, and other places of interest.
Step back in time to the days of the Old West and in addition, perhaps pick up a gift or two!
5. Eat at Pizzeria Bianco
Finish day one in a great way with dinner at Pizza Bianco, a famous pizza house which is still considered the best in the United States even after decades.
Enjoy a pizza that is perfectly prepared with a local homemade drink, and conclude Day One of your Arizona adventures!
Day 2: Sedona
Navigate the awe-inspiring scenery and energetic atmosphere of Sedona on your second day of the adventure. Enjoy the your nature walk, shop at the special boutiques, and visit incredibly beautiful scenic lookout points.
6. Jeep Tour Through Red Rock Formations
When you venture to Sedona, do not miss the thrilling Jeep tour through its famous Red Rock formations. Guided by staff that are well-versed in Sedona’s history as well as its geology, you will be able to get an up-close-and-personal view of the awe-inspiring beauty and ruggedness of the landscape.
7. Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross
Then, you should go to the Chapel of the Holy Cross. It is a spectacular construction that was built into the red rocks. Another pleasant moment to experience is the serene surroundings when it is calm, and everything it seizes with the panoramic view of the city.
8. Hike Devil’s Bridge Trail
If you’re still not satisfied with your adventure, you can choose the Devil’s Bridge Trail hike as your next thrill. This hike is considered to be a moderately difficult one, and you will be rewarded with a view of the largest natural sandstone arch in Sedona.
9. Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Take it easy on the mind with a visit to Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. This urban hub is filled with some very interesting, original shops and galleries, and also restaurants built in a very picturesque manner that imitates that of a Spanish village.
10. Stargazing at Night
End your day with your loved ones or friends, strolling around, and watching the stars. One of Sedona’s assets is its dark skies. They offer a clear background for viewing cosmic occurrences and it has attracted stargazers from all walks of life to the state.
It makes it it one of the ideal places in Arizona for stargazing.
Day 3: Grand Canyon South Rim
Day 3 of this trip centers around the Grand Canyon South Rim. This location gives you the opportunity to experience its incredible beauty, especially the eye-popping views, and other enjoyable activities.
11. Sunrise at Mather Point
Before your day even starts, capture the sunrise at Mather Point for the magical moment that it triggers. The canyon glows in shades of pink and yellow, as the sun rises in the early morning, and this is an experience that you will want to devour.
12. Hike Bright Angel Trail
As soon as the sun is up, the Bright Angel Trail is all yours for the morning hike. Everywhere you look is beautiful, and you can adjust how you want to spend your time here according to what is the easiest for you.
13. Grand Canyon Village Tour
Grand Canyon Village becomes your next target for the trip. Walk among the historic buildings as you learn about the area’s late 19th-century mining history.
14. Scenic Drive Along Desert View Drive (Optional)
If you have enough time to spend, you may enjoy an exciting drive along Desert View Drive. You will visit many viewpoints at a stretch, such as Yaki Point, Tyron Ridge, Duck on a Rock, etc. before making a return to the Grand Canyon Village.
15. Sunset at Hopi Point
End your visit to the Grand Canyon by gazing the sunset at Hopi Point. The rock layers of the canyon rapidly change color during the sun’s descent beneath the horizon. It is one of the most unique and beautiful moments one can experience in their lifetime.
Day 4: Page and Lake Powell
Day 4 will welcome you into the beautiful Page and Lake Powell which the nature has prepared for you. Enjoy the scenery and watersports as much as you can.
16. Antelope Canyon Guided Tour
Rise and shine in Page to take the breathtaking tour of the Antelope Canyon. The narrow passageways and swirling rock formations create a surreal experience. Ensure that you take a guided tour and click the cameras of your life to the fullest.
17. Explore Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is an awesome place to be barefooted and watch as the Colorado River curves around the bend formation. It is a quick drive from the Antelope Canyon.
The trek to the viewpoint won’t take you more than a few minutes and the view is so stunning that you won’t regret one single second of it.
18. Boat Tour on Lake Powell
Sail across Lake Powell on a calm boat tour. This man-made lake has a landscape so beautiful that one of the wonders is the water reflecting the sky on red rock cliffs.
19. Glen Canyon Dam Guided Tour
Here, you can learn about the engineering mastodon which is the Glen Canyon Dam. Take a guided tour to grasp its significance and relish empowered views of Lake Powell.
20. Lake Powell Resort Dinner with a View
Complete your thrilling day with dinner at Lake Powell Resort. Here, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying buffet of appetizing meals prepared from locally harvested fresh produce.
All these can be savored at a table on the resort deck with Lake Powell at the background.
Day 5: Monument Valley and Navajo Nation Experience
If you want to get a glimpse of the magnificent Monument Valley and familiarize yourself with the Navajo Nation’s authentic culture, the fifth day of the tour will be exactly what you are looking for.
21. Scenic Drive Through Monument Valley
Take a drive through the famous Monument Valley which has been the setting for numerous films. The path you take offers a range of photo opportunities on the way.
22. Navajo-Guided Tour of the Valley
Deepen your exposure to the site with a tour led by a Navajo. The local experts will inform people about the past and chromate of the Navajo Nation among other things. This allows for an exciting depth of learning.
23. Visit Navajo National Monument
Let your feet take you by Navajo National Monument, the place where ancient cliff dwellings are located. These short walks provide some of the most excellent vistas of these never-touched structures.
24. Experience Navajo Culture at a Traditional Hogan
Become deeply involved in the Navajo culture through a visit to Hogan. Traditional Navajo ways, storytelling, and crafts are the main topics to be discussed among the locals.
25. Stargaze in One of the Darkest Skies in America
Finish the day with star watching in Monument Valley. The absence of urban light pollution is one of the reasons that make the area one of the best places in America to see the doting sky in all its majesty.
Day 6: Flagstaff and Williams
On the 6th day, you look for the beauty of Flagstaff and Williams that are hidden in the landscape and the treasures of the strong local culture that is so alive.
26. Explore Lowell Observatory
Have a trip to Flagstaff and take the full experience of Lowell Observatory. This is a historical observatory immensely rich in interesting exhibits and nighttime sky observation through big telescopes.
27. Hike in Coconino National Forest
It’s hard not to be amazed when you see the greatness of a tree in the Coconino National Forest with a hike. The various landscapes of the area, such as pine forests and desert areas, will satisfy every enthusiast of the nature of the land.
28. Visit Museum of Northern Arizona
The Museum of Northern Arizona is a place where visitors are taught the natural and cultural history of the region. The displays at the museum encompass archeology, biology, paleontology, and Indians’ artifacts.
29. Ride the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams
And take a leisurely train trip to the Grand Canyon from Williams, and back. A classic train trip like this is a unique way to enjoy the amazing and serene canyon. The train carries entertainment including a concert inside and, and has easily available snacks.
30. Dinner at Historic Weatherford Hotel
Have a delicious dinner at the Weatherford Hotel, a historical landmark in central Flagstaff. The hotel’s restaurant is a comfortable place to bring friends over and enjoy a good meal together.
Day 7: Petrified Forest and Painted Desert
Take a trip on day 7 to the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert. You’ll get a glimpse of the beauty of nature and the ancient landscapes that are hidden.
31. Drive Through Petrified Forest National Park
As you drive along the long and winding road, you will be able to see the stunning Petrified Forest National Park. You can see brilliant stones and some of nature’s finest fossils on this enjoyable drive.
32. Hike Blue Mesa Trail
Experience the badlands firsthand by following along the Blue Mesa Trail. The trail gives you an awesome view of the blue hills as well as the petrified wood that can be found all over.
33. Visit Rainbow Forest Museum
Pop into the Rainbow Forest Museum, a place to delve into the park’s wonderful geological history. Fossils, petrified woods, and interactive exhibitions are featured in the museum.
34. Scenic Drive Through Painted Desert
Drive Through the Painted Desert for an incredible experience. The multi-colored desert is visually striking and it boasts many opportunities for vivid and beautiful photographs.
35. Sunset at Kachina Point
Wrap up the day with an incredibly beautiful sunset at Kachina Point. The desert is a spectacular place with its color-changing pattern that comes with the setting of the sun, making it a perfect end to your day.
Day 8: Tucson
Get the low-down of the Tucson Day 8 attractions along with the best activities. Go to the the most particular local spots, have a blast, and enjoy the most thrilling day of your life.
36. Do the Mission San Xavier Del Bac Tour
Your journey to Tucson begins with a tour of Mission San Xavier Del Bac. It is a famous Spanish mission, and the “White Dove of the Desert” has the capacity to grab your full attention with its eye-catching architecture and unique designs made by artists.
37. Go to Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum that houses not only a zoo but also a botanical garden and a natural history museum is worth visiting. You get to observe the area’s different plant and animal species here.
38. Get to Saguaro National Park (Optional)
Meet the most iconic of the saguaro cacti in the Saguaro National Park. The area as a whole is crossed with trails where you can approach and be amongst these monstrous cactuses and savor the beauty put on display by the desert. It is an experience that you will not find anywhere else.
39. Take a Walk through Historic Downtown Tucson
Relax and just be on foot and pass through the historic downtown of Tucson. The streets of the shopping malls are furnished with boutiques, galleries, and eatery shops reflecting the city’s dynamic arts and crafts industry, respectively.
40. Have a Supper at El Charro Café
Finish your day by eating a dinner at the El Charro Café. It is the earliest Mexican restaurant in the USA. Happy people share their stories with the others while they are eating dishes such as those from the Sonoran tradition. It is a very pleasant place to be, and it will help you finish your Day 8 on a high!
Day 9: Tombstone and Bisbee
Delve into the time-honored venues of Tombstone and Bisbee on Day 9, and relish their distinct heritages and hallmarks.
41. Gunfight Reenactment at O.K. Corral in Tombstone
Get the feel for the Wild West as you transport yourself to Tombstone. Witness an exciting gunfight reenactment at the famous O.K. Corral, a place that is so rich in history.
42. Tour Boothill Graveyard
Now take yourself to Boothill Graveyard, a location where the glazing characters of the town of Tombstone are buried and remembered. It’s the ideal place to delve into the town’s very interesting history.
43. Visit Queen Mine in Bisbee
Proceed to the exciting Bisbee where you take the Queen Mine tour. Get to descend into the mine and listen to the stories of the area’s mining heyday, told by experienced guides.
44. Explore Bisbee’s Quirky Art Scene
Be surprised by Bisbee’s freedom of artistic expression. The town has sports art institutes, workspaces, and eye-catching murals that are some of the sources of inspiration that help Bisbee maintain its creativity.
45. Dinner at Café Roka in Bisbee
Delight your palate with a scrumptious dinner at Café Roka, a trendy eatery that also offers a cozy environment. Moreover, it virtualizes the perfect dinner experience that encourages you to take a break after enjoying this most remarkable journey.
Day 10: Phoenix Area
Our guide for day 10 leads you to the Phoenix area highlights – the must-see places and the best attractions.
46. Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Sonoran Desert
In the beginning of the last day, hear the tale of a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert. The quiet and tranquil flight is an unmatchable experience that opens up the view of the desert sprawling and is an experience you’re likely to remember for years to come.
47. Tour Taliesin West
Take a neat trip to Taliesin West, a winter home to Frank Lloyd Wright. The tours deal with the subjects on life and career that Wright liked together with the special house design issues.
48. Visit Musical Instrument Museum
Take a quick trip to the Musical Instrument Museum. It has one of the world’s largest collections of musical instruments. The exciting features of these exhibitions are that they are fun and also helpful (provided you have kids).
49. Relax at Spa in a Luxury Resort
How about treating yourself to some relaxation at the spa in Phoenix’s luxury resorts? In fact, in addition to a massage, you can also have a facial. You can even simply just relax by the pool. It is up to you.
50. Farewell Dinner with Sunset Views at Different Pointe of View
The final thing that will make your Arizona adventure unforgettable is dinner at the place called Different Pointe of View. It has a nice view of the sunset. You can enjoy the nice atmosphere of the restaurant and the amazing taste of food there, and then you can also think of this place as the one to which you are already introspecting.
Final Words
Arizona is indeed a place of great spirits and amazing things. Among the bustling cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale down to the magical beauty of the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, every traveler is absolutely going to find something for themselves.
Over these 10 days of plan that we have shared here, you have been busy with 50 activities, each of which has given you a new outlook on the various landscapes and cultures of Arizona. This wonderful state always guarantees an unforgettable journey to adventure seekers to outdoor folk to travel enthusiasts, all the same.
So, why wait any further? It is the perfect time to grab your backpack and go on a fantastic adventure to Arizona!
