5 Places You Should Visit in Arizona
Arizona has plenty of incredible places to see, from the Grand Canyon to Sedona to Flagstaff, and many more in between. While it’s impossible to make a list that everyone agrees on, here are five of the best places in Arizona to visit and explore, whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for somewhere new to go on vacation. Plus, there are plenty of cool things to do in Flight to Arizona year-round!
1) Sedona
Known for its unique red rock formations, Sedona is an ideal spot for rock climbers, hikers and nature enthusiasts. Its picturesque landscapes draw people from all over to enjoy hiking and biking through canyons and caverns. One of its biggest attractions is Oak Creek Canyon, which was voted as one of America’s Most Beautiful Beaches by Travel Channel Magazine. There are also many art galleries where you can view local artwork while enjoying some tasty cuisine at a nearby restaurant. If you visit Sedona in October, be sure to participate in their annual Harvest Festival where you can sample homemade foods, drinks and desserts throughout downtown Sedona.
2) Canyon de Chelly
The highlight of any trip to Arizona is a visit to Canyon de Chelly. It’s one of a handful of must-see locations on any itinerary, and for good reason. A combination of striking landscape and unique Native American history make it an unforgettable stop along any road trip. There are several trails available (depending on which campground you stay at), but you don’t need to hike far from your campsite before you begin seeing evidence of past life along the canyon walls. Archeologists estimate that people have lived here for as many as 5,000 years – and their relics still stand today as testament to their persistence and ingenuity. Allegiant Airline Reservations offers unique vacation packages, and you'll earn extra Rapid Rewards points when you book a flight, hotel, or vehicle together.
3) Chiricahua National Monument
Located just outside of Flagstaff, AZ, Meteor Crater is one of the most interesting places you’ll ever visit. The crater was formed around 50,000 years ago when a chunk of iron roughly 150 feet wide and weighing 130,000 tons landed on Earth at about 10 miles per second. Visitors can walk across the rim for one of a kind views into what once was a mountain. For an added thrill, climb down into a model of how scientists believe it looked before impact for an up-close look at what lurks inside (warning: tour guides do make banging noises when they hit metal against metal as though it were an asteroid hitting Earth). Be sure to go early – during summer months admission is free between 8:00am and 9:00am!
4) Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that’s difficult to fully appreciate unless you experience it firsthand. Explore its breathtaking views, miles of trails and rich history by visiting Grand Canyon National Park on your next vacation. The park is open all year long, with limited services between November and March. While there are numerous ways to visit the park throughout different seasons, keep in mind that temperatures can drop as low as 45 degrees Fahrenheit and snowstorms occur occasionally during winter months. For more information about planning your trip to Grand Canyon National Park, visit nps.gov/grca . Pueblo Grande: Located on a small island just south of downtown Phoenix, Pueblo Grande Museum State Park features hundreds of ruins from an ancient Hohokam village that once spanned 800 acres.
5) Meteor Crater
One of only 65 registered craters on Earth, Meteor Crater is a massive hole in Winslow, AZ that was created by a meteorite tens of thousands of years ago. The crater is around 1 mile across and 550 feet deep. A day trip to Meteor Crater is an excellent way to learn about geology, space science and history all at once. And as a bonus, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy Winslow and visit nearby attractions. Start your day by checking out Radium Springs Park—it’s just north of downtown Winslow and features many unique fountains based on ancient times.