26 Best Places to Visit in Arizona for First-Time Visitors (+ Map & Tips)

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Planning your first trip to Arizona and wondering where to go? This guide covers the best places to visit in Arizona, from must-see landmarks to a few lesser-known spots worth adding to your itinerary.

We’ve been to Arizona several times and visited many of these places ourselves. To make the list more complete, we also included a few additional recommendations from other experienced travelers.

You’ll find iconic sights like the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon, scenic areas like Sedona and Monument Valley, as well as cities, road trip stops, and a few quieter places that many first-time visitors miss.

To help you plan your first Arizona road trip, we included a map with all the locations mentioned in this guide, plus practical tips for visiting each place.

Map of the Best Places in Arizona

To help you plan your trip, we created a map with all the main locations mentioned in this guide (see below). Use it to see which places are close to each other and plan a more efficient Arizona itinerary based on the sights you want to visit.

How to use this map: Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Here are the best places to visit in Arizona for first-time visitors:

1. Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona’s most famous landmark, the Grand Canyon is a must-see on any first trip to the state. It’s one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., and for good reason.

The Grand Canyon is huge, but you don’t need days to appreciate it. Even a short visit is enough to see some of the best views. That’s why many people include it as a stop on a road trip or even visit on a day trip.

There are three main areas to visit:

• South Rim – the most popular and easiest to visit year-round. This is where you’ll find the best viewpoints, visitor facilities, and most services. If it’s your first time, this is the place to go.
• North Rim – quieter and more remote, but only open seasonally.
• Grand Canyon West – known for the Skywalk. Closer to Las Vegas, but less scenic than the national park.

How much time to spend: From a few hours to a full day is enough for a first visit. Stay longer if you want to hike into the canyon or visit several areas.

TIP: Short on time? Focus on the South Rim. You can see the main highlights in a few hours.

LEARN MORE: Grand Canyon 1-Day Itinerary (South Rim)

2. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed places in Arizona, known for its narrow passageways and smooth, wave-like sandstone walls.

There are three main areas you can visit:

• Upper Antelope Canyon – the most popular and easiest to access. Best known for light beams and wide, flat paths.
• Lower Antelope Canyon – requires stairs and ladders, but usually less crowded and a bit cheaper to visit.
• Antelope Canyon X and Rattlesnake Canyon – quieter and less visited, with similar scenery.

Good to know: If it’s your first time, Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon are the best choices. Lower is often a better option if you want fewer crowds and don’t mind a bit of climbing. All visits are guided and must be booked in advance, and in peak season, tours often sell out several weeks ahead. Check availability before you go.

How much time to spend: Most tours last about 1.5–2 hours. Plan around 3 hours total, including check-in and waiting time.

TIP: Most people visit Antelope Canyon together with Horseshoe Bend (see below), which is just a short drive away.

READ ALSO: Itinerary for Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend & Grand Canyon

3. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most popular viewpoints in Arizona. This dramatic curve of the Colorado River is best seen from above, with steep cliffs dropping about 1,000 feet (300 m) down to the water.

It’s an easy stop that doesn’t require much time or planning. The walk from the parking area to the viewpoint is about 0.6 miles (1 km) one way and takes 15–20 minutes. You can also walk a bit further along the rim for slightly different views and fewer people.

Good to know: There is a parking fee (not included with the National Park Pass). There are no railings at the edge, so be careful and keep a safe distance.

How much time to spend: Most people spend about 1–2 hours here. Horseshoe Bend is usually combined with a visit to Antelope Canyon, which is just a short drive away.

TIP: For a different perspective, you can also take a Horseshoe Bend boat trip on the Colorado River below the viewpoint. It’s a relaxed experience with great views of the canyon from the water.

4. Lake Powell & Page

Lake Powell is a large reservoir on the Colorado River, located near Page in northern Arizona. This is one of the best areas to visit if you want to combine several top sights in one place.

Many of the highlights mentioned in this guide, including Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, are located here or just nearby. That makes Page a convenient base for exploring this part of Arizona.

In addition to these well-known landmarks, you can also visit Glen Canyon Dam, stop at viewpoints like Wahweap Overlook, or take a short hike to Hanging Garden.

Lake Powell itself is popular for boating and other water activities. But even if you are just sightseeing, the scenery around the lake is worth a stop.

How much time to spend: You can see the main highlights in half a day to a full day. Stay longer if you want to explore more of the area or spend time on the water.

5. Sedona

Sedona is one of the most popular places to visit in Arizona, known for its red rock landscapes and easy access to scenic viewpoints and hiking trails.

Some of the main sights include Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. For short walks with great views, head to Airport Mesa or Boynton Canyon. If you want a slightly more adventurous hike, Devil’s Bridge is one of the most popular trails in the area.

In town, don’t miss the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built into the rocks overlooking Sedona. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is also worth a quick stop for local shops and restaurants.

How much time to spend: You can see the main highlights in one day, but if you have more time, consider staying for 2–3 days.

TIP: One of the easiest ways to see more of the area is by joining a Sedona Jeep tours. These tours take you off-road to places that are difficult to reach on your own.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Sedona

6. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is one of the most recognizable landscapes in the American Southwest, known for its red desert and towering sandstone buttes.

Located on the Arizona–Utah border, it’s more remote than most other places in this guide, but it’s worth including if you are planning a longer road trip through the region.

The best way to explore the area is by visiting Monument Valley Tribal Park. The main activity here is the 17-mile scenic drive, which takes you close to the rock formations and several viewpoints.

You can drive the loop yourself, but the road is rough in places. Many visitors choose to join a guided 4×4 tour instead, which allows access to areas you can’t reach on your own and gives more background about the region.

How much time to spend: Allow 2–3 hours for the scenic drive. If you take a guided tour, most tours last about 2–3 hours.

LEARN MORE: Monument Valley Scenic Drive

TIP: Short on time? You can still see some of the best views of Monument Valley from the road along US-163 (see the photo below).

Church Rock Valley (featured in the main photo at the top of this article) is located along Hwy 160, about a 10-minute drive east of Kayenta.

7. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument (The Wave & More)

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is one of the most remote areas in Arizona, known for its colorful rock formations and wide-open desert landscapes.

The most famous spot here is The Wave, a striking sandstone formation that you can only visit with a permit. Access is very limited and permits are awarded through a lottery system, so most visitors won’t be able to include it in their plans.

That said, you can still experience this area without a permit. There are several other places in the area that are easier to access and just as impressive:

• White Pocket, with swirling rock formations and very few crowds. The easiest way to visit is on a White Pocket guided tour.
• Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest slot canyons in the world, is another popular place to explore. You can visit it with Buckskin Gulch guided tours.

Because of its remote location and limited access, this area is best suited for travelers with more time and a flexible itinerary rather than a first visit focused on the main highlights.

How much time to spend: Plan at least half a day to a full day, depending on what you visit and whether you go on a guided tour.

Good to know: Many places require a 4×4 vehicle and careful planning. Bring plenty of water and be prepared for heat, especially in summer.

8. Phoenix

Phoenix is Arizona’s largest city and a good base for exploring the surrounding area, especially if you are flying in or planning a road trip.

While most first-time visitors focus on natural landmarks like the Grand Canyon or Sedona, Phoenix is worth a stop if you have extra time or want to mix in some city experiences.

Some of the most popular things to do include hiking trails like Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak, visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, and exploring museums such as the Musical Instrument Museum or the Heard Museum.

You can also use Phoenix as a base to visit nearby places like Scottsdale or even take day trips to Sedona.

How much time to spend: One day is enough for a quick visit, but you can stay longer if you want to explore more or relax at one of the many resorts.

Good to know: Summers are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 110°F (43°C). Spring, fall, and winter are the best times to visit.

LEARN MORE: Phoenix & Scottsdale Itinerary

9. Scottsdale

Scottsdale is a popular destination near Phoenix, known for its mix of desert landscapes, restaurants, and easy access to outdoor activities.

For first-time visitors, it’s best seen as part of a Phoenix trip rather than a standalone destination. The main highlights are located around Old Town Scottsdale, where you’ll find shops, galleries, and a compact, walkable center.

If you want to spend some time outdoors, the nearby McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers easy trails with views of the desert and saguaro cacti.

How much time to spend: A few hours to half a day is enough to see the main sights. Stay longer if you want to relax at a resort or explore more of the surrounding area.

Good to know: Scottsdale is just a short drive from Phoenix, so it’s easy to combine the two in one itinerary.

Recommended by Amanda of A Dangerous Business Travel Blog

10. Tucson

Tucson is Arizona’s second-largest city, located in the southern part of the state. It’s a good place to visit if you want to see a different side of Arizona, with a mix of desert landscapes, history, and great food.

For first-time visitors, Tucson is best known as a base for exploring nearby natural areas, especially Saguaro National Park (see further below), where you can see the iconic saguaro cacti up close.

In the city itself, you can explore the historic center, visit the San Xavier del Bac Mission, or check out places like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

How much time to spend: One to two days is enough for a quick visit, especially if you combine the city with nearby attractions. Stay longer if you want to explore more of the surrounding area or take day trips.

Good to know: Tucson is very spread out, so you’ll need a car to get around. The best time to visit is from fall to spring, when temperatures are more comfortable.

Recommended by Ruth from Tanama Tales.

11. Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a mountain town in northern Arizona, often used as a base for visiting the Grand Canyon and several nearby attractions.

Because of its higher elevation, the landscape here is very different from the rest of Arizona, with pine forests and cooler temperatures. This makes it a good place to stay if you want a break from the desert heat.

In addition to its location, Flagstaff is worth a stop for a few unique experiences. You can visit Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, take the scenic chairlift at Arizona Snowbowl for wide views of the area, or walk around historic Route 66 in downtown Flagstaff. The town also has a good selection of restaurants and local breweries if you want a relaxed evening stop.

How much time to spend: A few hours is enough for a short visit. Stay one night if you want to use it as a base for exploring the area or enjoy the town in the evening.

Good to know: Flagstaff sits at about 7,000 feet (2,100 m) elevation, so temperatures are much cooler than in Phoenix or Sedona.

Recommended by Allison from Eternal Arrival.

12. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is one of the best places to see the iconic saguaro cactus, the symbol of the American Southwest. The park is located near Tucson and is split into two areas on either side of the city.

Both sections offer scenic drives, short walks, and viewpoints where you can see large groups of cacti up close. The west side (Tucson Mountain District) is generally considered more scenic, especially for sunset, while the east side (Rincon Mountain District) is quieter and better for longer hikes.

For most first-time visitors, it’s easiest to visit one side of the park and combine it with a stop in Tucson.

How much time to spend: Plan half a day for a quick visit, or a full day if you want to explore both sides or do some hiking.

TIP: Visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heat and see the best light. The west side is a great choice for sunset views.

Recommended by Melissa from The Family Voyage.

13. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument is an easy stop between Phoenix, Sedona, and Flagstaff. If you are driving through this area, it’s well worth a short visit.

This site protects a well-preserved cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people around 900 years ago. The structure has several levels and rooms and is built high into the rock, which makes it especially impressive to see up close.

You can’t go inside, but a short, flat trail leads past the cliff dwelling and offers great views along the way. It’s an easy visit and works well as a quick stop on a road trip.

How much time to spend: Allow about 30–60 minutes.

TIP: If you have a bit more time, consider visiting Montezuma Well, located about a 20-minute drive away.

14. Tombstone

Tombstone is a historic town in southern Arizona, best known for its Wild West history and the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

Today, it’s set up as a tourist town where you can see reenactments, visit historic buildings, and get a feel for what life was like here in the late 1800s. The main area is along Allen Street, where you’ll find saloons, shops, and several attractions within walking distance.

Some of the most popular things to do include watching a gunfight reenactment, visiting the O.K. Corral, exploring the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, or taking a guided tour to learn more about the town’s history.

This is a good stop if you are already visiting southern Arizona, especially in combination with Tucson.

How much time to spend: Plan 2–4 hours for a quick visit. Stay longer if you want to see more attractions or spend the night.

TIP: Most of the main sights are located close to each other, so it’s easy to see a lot in a short time. In the evening, you can also join a Tombstone walking ghost tour for a different perspective on the town’s history.

Recommended by Jim Vail from Roving Vails.

15. Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Canyon de Chelly National Monument is one of the lesser-known but very impressive places to visit in Arizona, especially if you are looking for something a bit different from the usual highlights. Located in the northeastern part of the state, it offers a mix of dramatic canyon scenery and Native American history.

You can explore the area by driving along the rim roads, which have several viewpoints overlooking the canyon. These are easy to access and don’t require much time.

Some of the most notable sights include White House Ruin, which you can see from above or visit via a short hike into the canyon, and Spider Rock, one of the most recognizable formations in the park, best seen from an overlook.

Good to know: To explore most areas inside the canyon, you’ll need to join a guided tour with a local Navajo guide. The only exception is the White House Trail, which you can hike on your own.

How much time to spend: Plan 2–4 hours for a quick visit along the rim. Allow more time if you want to take a guided tour into the canyon.

TIP: If you have time for just one viewpoint, head to Spider Rock Overlook for one of the best views in the area.

16. Sunset Crater Volcano & Wupatki National Monuments

Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monuments are located just north of Flagstaff and are easy to visit together on a scenic loop drive. Despite their close proximity, they are very different, which makes visiting both especially worthwhile.

Sunset Crater is a dormant volcano, surrounded by lava fields and black volcanic landscapes that look very different from most places in Arizona. One of the easiest ways to explore the area is by walking the Lava Flow Trail, a short and easy loop at the base of the volcano.

A short drive away, Wupatki offers a completely different landscape, with desert views and ancient pueblo ruins. The main Wupatki Pueblo is easily accessible and one of the most interesting sites to see.

How much time to spend: Plan 2–3 hours for both parks, or longer if you want to stop at several viewpoints or do a short hike.

TIP: Visit early in the morning or later in the day, especially in warmer months, since there is very little shade.

Recommended by Nicole from AffordableFamilyTravel.

17. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is one of the most unusual places to visit in Arizona, known for its colorful badlands and ancient petrified wood scattered across the desert.

The park is located in eastern Arizona and is easy to visit as a scenic drive, with stops at viewpoints and short trails along the way. Some of the most interesting areas include the Painted Desert, Blue Mesa, and the Rainbow Forest, where you can see large petrified logs up close.

You can explore most of the highlights by car, with the option to add one or two short walks. The Blue Mesa Trail is one of the best and only takes about 30–45 minutes.

How much time to spend: Plan 2–4 hours for a quick visit, or up to a full day if you want to stop at multiple viewpoints and do a few short hikes.

TIP: Enter the park from one side and drive through to the other to see more without backtracking.

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel.

18. Navajo National Monument

Navajo National Monument protects some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in Arizona, set in a quiet, remote canyon landscape far from the main tourist routes.

The easiest way to visit is by walking the short Sandal Trail, which leads to an overlook of Betatakin, one of the main cliff dwellings. It’s an easy, paved walk and a good option if you are passing through the area.

If you want to see more, you can join a guided hike into the canyon for a closer look at the ruins. These tours require more time and are more physically demanding, but they offer a very different perspective.

Good to know: Because of its location, this is best suited as a stop if you are already traveling through this part of northern Arizona rather than a destination on its own. Combine it with Monument Valley or Page if you are exploring the region.

How much time to spend: Plan about 1–2 hours for a short visit. Allow half a day if you want to join a guided hike.

Recommended by James Ian from Parks Collecting.

19. Lower Salt River & Wild Horses

The Lower Salt River is one of the most unique places to visit near Phoenix, known for its scenic desert landscapes and the chance to see wild horses along the riverbanks.

This stretch of the river runs through Tonto National Forest and is best explored on the water. Kayaking or floating down the river is a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife. The water is usually calm, making it suitable even for beginners.

The wild horses are the main highlight here. Small groups can often be seen near the water, especially early in the morning or later in the day.

How much time to spend: Plan about half a day for a guided trip or a self-guided float.

Good to know: You can visit on your own, but it requires some planning, including transportation and permits. The easiest option is to join a guided kayaking or float tour, which includes equipment and logistics.

Recommended by Kim from Oh My! Omaha

20. Apache Trail

Apache Trail is one of the most scenic drives near Phoenix, offering a mix of desert landscapes, lakes, and old western-style stops, with a real taste of the Wild West.

The route runs through the Superstition Mountains and past several reservoirs, with lots of viewpoints along the way. It’s a great option if you want to see more of the Arizona desert without going too far from the city.

Some of the most popular stops include Goldfield Ghost Town, Canyon Lake, and Tortilla Flat, a small historic stop with a general store and restaurant. You can also find hiking opportunities in nearby areas like Lost Dutchman State Park.

Keep in mind that parts of the Apache Trail are unpaved and road conditions can change. Always check the latest updates before you go, and allow extra time for the drive.

How much time to spend: Plan at least half a day, or a full day if you want to stop along the way and explore a bit more.

TIP: If you prefer an easier drive, you can visit the first section up to Canyon Lake, which is fully paved and already very scenic.

Recommended by Noel Morata from Travel Photo Discovery.

21. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam is one of the most famous landmarks in the American Southwest, located on the Arizona–Nevada border, not far from Las Vegas.

Often visited as a half-day trip from Las Vegas, it’s also an easy stop if you are traveling between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon.

Most visitors come here to see the scale of the dam and enjoy the views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead. You can walk across the dam, stop at the viewpoints, or visit the visitor center to learn more about its construction and history.

How much time to spend: Allow 1 hour for a short visit. Stay longer if you want to take a guided tour inside.

TIP: For the best views, walk onto the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, where you can see the full scale of the dam from above.

LEARN MORE: Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

22. Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls is one of the most unique places to visit in Arizona, known for its bright turquoise water and waterfalls set in a remote desert canyon.

Located on the Havasupai Reservation, this is not a typical sightseeing stop. Visiting requires advance planning, a permit, and a long hike. The trail is about 10 miles (16 km) each way, and you need to carry your own supplies unless you arrange additional services.

Because of the effort involved, this is best suited for travelers looking for a more adventurous experience rather than a quick stop on a road trip.

How much time to spend: Plan at least 2–3 days for the full experience, including hiking in and out. Most visitors stay overnight at the campground or lodge.

Good to know: Permits are required and sell out very quickly. Check availability on the official Havasupai Reservations website.

Recommended by Nick from Wandering Wheatleys.

23. Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu is a popular vacation destination in western Arizona, best known for its unusual landmark, the London Bridge, which was relocated here from the UK in the 1960s.

The bridge connects the mainland with a small island and is one of the main sights in the area. It’s easy to walk across and a quick stop if you are passing through.

Beyond the bridge, Lake Havasu is all about outdoor activities. You can go boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake, relax on the beaches, or explore nearby areas like SARA Park for hiking and mountain biking.

Because of its location, Lake Havasu is best suited for travelers who have extra time or are specifically looking for a place to relax by the water rather than a quick sightseeing stop.

How much time to spend: A few hours is enough to see the main sights. Stay longer if you want to enjoy the lake or spend time on the water.

TIP: This area gets very hot in summer. Spring and fall are the best times to visit.

Recommended by Kate from Miss Tourist.

24. Williams (Route 66)

Williams is a small town in northern Arizona, located along historic Route 66 and not far from the Grand Canyon. It’s often used as a base for visiting the South Rim, but it’s also worth a quick stop on its own.

The main street has a classic Route 66 feel, with old buildings, diners, and souvenir shops. It’s a nice place to walk around for a bit, especially if you are passing through the area.

One of the most popular experiences here is the Grand Canyon Railway, a scenic train ride from Williams to the South Rim. Another highlight is Bearizona Wildlife Park, a drive-through wildlife park where you can see animals like bison, bears, and wolves from your own car. There’s also a walk-through area with smaller animals and short shows, which makes it a good stop for families.

How much time to spend: Plan 2–3 hours if you just visit Bearizona or stop in town. Allow a full day if you want to take the train to the Grand Canyon.

Recommended by Tatiana from Family Road Trip Guru.

25. Seligman (Route 66)

Seligman is a small town along historic Route 66, often referred to as the “Birthplace of Historic Route 66.” It’s one of the best places in Arizona to get a feel for the original road and its retro atmosphere.

The town is known for its colorful storefronts, vintage signs, and classic roadside stops. It’s a great place to walk around, take photos, and see what Route 66 used to be like.

You’ll find a few souvenir shops, old diners, and simple places to grab a quick bite. It’s not a big destination, but it’s a fun and easy stop if you are driving this part of Arizona.

How much time to spend: Plan about 1 hour if you want to stop for food or explore more.

TIP: Seligman is a good stop if you are driving between Las Vegas, Williams, and the Grand Canyon, or if you want to experience a small section of historic Route 66.

26. Oatman

Oatman is a small former mining town along historic Route 66 in western Arizona, known for its wild burros that roam freely through the streets.

It’s a fun and slightly unusual stop, especially if you are driving this part of Route 66. The town has a classic Wild West feel, with wooden storefronts, small shops, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels quite different from the bigger destinations in Arizona.

The burros are the main highlight. They are descendants of the pack animals used by miners and are now part of the town’s character. You’ll often see them walking through the streets and stopping near visitors.

The drive between Kingman and Oatman is also worth mentioning. It’s narrow and winding, but very scenic, with great desert views along the way.

How much time to spend: Plan about 1–2 hours for a detour.

Recommended by Jacoba from Op Reis Met Co.

This guide covers some of the best places to visit in Arizona and should give you a good starting point for planning your trip.

For more ideas and practical tips, check out our related articles below.

More travel tips for Arizona:

• Grand Canyon 1-Day Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Grand Canyon
• Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend & Grand Canyon Itinerary
• Sedona 1-Day Itinerary

Planning a Southwest road trip:

• Zion to Bryce Canyon Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Arches National Park
• Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
• Best Things to Do in Moab

Visiting Las Vegas:

• Best Things to Do in Las Vegas
• Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

Planning a bigger USA trip? See our USA travel guide for more destinations and itinerary ideas.

TIP: Save this guide for later, share it with your friends, or pin it to Pinterest so you can easily come back to it when planning your trip.

Additional image credits: Depositphotos.com