Welcome to the ultimate Arizona bucket list! If you’re a travel enthusiast or simply looking for some adventure, you’ve come to the right place. Arizona, also known as the Grand Canyon State, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and hidden gems just waiting to be explored. From breathtaking landscapes to vibrant cities, this southwestern state offers something for everyone.
Prepare to be captivated as we embark on an unforgettable journey through Arizona’s must-visit places and hidden gems. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, this diverse state has countless attractions that will leave you in awe. Get ready to tick off those travel goals and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to hike amidst towering red rocks, gaze upon magnificent canyons, or wander through ancient ruins? Arizona’s unique geographical features make it a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s most famous natural landmarks. Marvel at the vivid colors and sheer size of this geological wonder as you stand on the edge of this immense chasm. Don’t forget to snap a photo to remember this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
But Arizona’s natural wonders don’t stop at the Grand Canyon. Explore the mystical beauty of Sedona, where towering red rock formations meet lush greenery. Immerse yourself in the energy of this spiritual haven, known for its vortex sites that are said to emit powerful healing energies. As you hike through the stunning landscapes, you’ll understand why Sedona has become a magnet for artists, seekers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
Beyond the iconic landmarks, Arizona is home to a myriad of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Uncover the secrets of Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon renowned for its mesmerizing light beams and sculpted walls. This otherworldly landscape is a photographer’s dream, with ever-changing patterns and colors creating a visual feast for the eyes. As you explore the narrow sandstone corridors, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a magical realm.
With its rich Native American heritage and diverse cultural influences, Arizona offers a plethora of historical and artistic experiences. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Native American culture at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, where you can admire a wide range of traditional and contemporary art and artifacts. From intricate pottery to intricate beadwork, the museum showcases the incredible talent and creativity of Native American artists.
Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure as we unveil the ultimate Arizona bucket list. Whether you’re planning a road trip, a family vacation, or a solo getaway, this guide will provide you with all the inspiration and information you need to make the most of your Arizona experience. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the wonders of this captivating state. Your Arizona adventure awaits!
Arizona Bucket List – Things to do in Arizona
1. Hole in the Rock at Papago Park – Have a picnic, take some pictures, impress your friends!
Be sure to check out the Hole In The Rock & Tempe Lake electric Bike tour. You will be so glad you did!
2. Grand Canyon – I didn’t learn this until I moved to Arizona, but the Grand Canyon isn’t just a one-stop kind of adventure. There are tons of different spots to visit, see, and even camp at! There are hiking tours and bus tours and jeep tours and just so much to see. There are also many guides available to help you make your trip perfect.
Of course if you are more the hummer tour type, so fun, they absolutely have that as well.
And of course there are helicopter tours too.
3. Coyote Buttes – Ride the “wave”! It’s an easier hike than Havasu Falls, but a little more difficult than Antelope Canyon – you’ll hike to get to the famous WAVE to take pictures. Pack lots of water, though, because there’s NONE along the way! No streams, nothing.
4. Antelope Canyon – Made world famous by National Geographic, Antelope Canyon is one of those “must see” spots – you’ve gotta add it to your bucket list! They don’t allow free hiking in, so you’ll have to pay the Res fee and hire a tour guide, but it’s worth it.
5. Havasu Falls – Wow, is this something to see. It’s a 10 mile hike in, and a 10 mile hike (uphill!) out, but Havasu Falls is one of the most breathtaking spots on Earth. Well worth the trip, but one you want to take a few days for. They have helicopter tours in as well so however you decide to get there, just get there. You don’t want to miss this one.
If you like to camp, Havasu Falls has a terrific campground that is very much worth checking out.
6. Lost Dutchman – This state park, named after the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine, is located 40 miles east of Phoenix. You’ll need to pack lots of water for your hike – it’ll be fairly challenging. Keep in mind you are Phoenix so you will want to pack lots of water (and maybe a sports drink or two) anywhere you go!
Here is a link to all the information about the park.
7. Phoenix Art Museum – It’s free on Wednesdays!
8. Schnepf Farms which is South of Phoenix in Queen Creek. Schnepf’s has a Country Store that is full of fresh baked pies, and they have a “pick your own” garden which is awesome! They have peach picking, apple picking, and a great Fourth of July event. During the Christmas holiday they have a Reindeer Hayride, Christmas Carousel, Visits with Santa, Mini Golf, Obstacle Course, bonfires, Christmas Movies, Letters to Santa, Pinecone Decorating, Ice Skating, Trolley Rides, and The Illumination Express Train Ride. It is an all around great place – very fun for the kids.
9. Queen Creek Olive Mill – When you visit Schnepf, make sure you head across the street to the Olive Mill where you’ll see a lush garden and a view of tons of beautiful olive trees.
10. Ride Bike Trail 100 on Tatum Trailhead. It’s 11 miles, and it’s a pretty flat ride so it’s fine for intermediate riders – no expertise needed. Well, except knowing how to change a flat tire since that tends to happen ANY time I ride a bike in Arizona. Pack your camera – it’s one of the most scenic routes around.
11. Tovrea Castle – Located in East Phoenix, this castle is a great photo opp!
12. Changing Hands Bookstore – You’ll never find another bookstore like it. Be sure to check the rest of the overlooked list while you’re at it.
13. Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale – My niece and nephews came to town and I took them to this museum. It was magical. They have live butterflies as far as the eye could see. You walk through this human size, massive terrarium and the butterflies come and land on the people; especially the kids. They were hysterical with laughter.
But it is not only great for kids – we adults loved it too. Plus, it’s very close to the Talking Stick Resort & Casino. So, if you have a little room in your schedule to hit the slots, that is a very fun Casino/Hotel just to walk around, eat and enjoy.
14. If you are a foodie like me, you will want to know about the best buffet in Arizona. That would be the Eagles Buffet inside of Casino Arizona. They have a carving station, omelette bar, crab legs and seafood and dessert mania. It is really good so go hungry!
14. Another great place to check out for dining is the Black Canyon River Pies at the Rock Springs Cafe in Rock Springs, Arizona. This is off of the 17 freeway mid point between Flagstaff and Phoenix. It doesn’t look like much from the road but it is a killer place. It has been there since 1918 which is impressive in itself. It has a Montana saloon vibe, which I absolutely love!
There is a full service restaurant, pie making facility (you can actually watch them make the pies), wedding and event area, a second story Christmas store, a gift shop (with fudge and ice cream), a rock store and a farmers market. There restaurant is actually built in front of the actual Black Canyon river, that flows just behind the property. They are known for their magnificent pies and ship them out all over the country, daily. The “Bourbon Pecan” is said to be there #1 pie but I tried the Coconut cream and it was delectable. If you head north on the 17 from Phoenix, you really need to stop there and check it out.
15. If you are a bit of a paleontologist, and wondering if Arizona is a good place to look for fossils, I assure you it is! Apparently the Grand Canyon has a vast assemblance of fossils including microbes, sea sponges, insects, sharks, early amphibians and mammals. They all have been discovered in the rocks around Arizona and represent over 1 billion years of life on Earth.
According to the National Park Service, there are 22 park units in Arizona with paleontological resources. Visitor centers at many of these sites do contain fossils inside the facilities but the two best places to see fossils outdoors are the Grand Canyon National Park and Petrified Forest National Park.
For a terrific article on guided tours and how to spot the fossils, you can read here.
Bookmark this list and check it out often. I add to it all the time as I discover more and more about this magical state. I hope you will have a blast on your trip to Arizona – Enjoy!
If you are looking for more great bucket list ideas, here is is my list of 150+ ideas for you and your family.
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