Top Things To Do In Arizona

The US state of Arizona is a heady mix of architectural marvels, high mountains, fascinating geological formations and canyons, and vast deserts. It houses some of the most well-known natural attractions in the country, such as Sedona, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon. Arizona also has more than 20 Native American reserves. 

With plenty of places to visit in Arizona as well as things to do in Arizona, you are likely to fall short on your holiday schedule. You can trek in the mountains, go camping, or fishing and rafting in the rivers. You can also enjoy a picturesque drive in the desert or soak in one of the many hot springs if you're looking to unwind and relax.

Top Places to Visit in Arizona

• Grand Canyon National Park
• Sedona
• Saguaro National Park
• Tucson 
• Phoenix

1. The Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular places to visit in Arizona. It is a truly breathtaking sight with enormous canyon walls and vibrant rock formations. This natural spectacle was created by millions of years of geological activity and erosion caused by the Colorado River. With a massive number of fossil records, several geologic features, and a rich archaeological history, the Grand Canyon is one of the most studied landscapes in the world.

Things to do at the Grand Canyon National Park

• Go hiking along the South Kaibab Trail, the Bright Angel Trail, and the Mather Point Trail 
• Camp overnight and take home fantastic memories of the canyon's splendour under a starlit sky
• Stargazing is one of the most exciting things to do in Arizona, especially at the Grand Canyon under a clear sky

2. Sedona

An Arizona desert town, Sedona is well-known for its red-rock buttes, pine forests, and sheer canyon walls. The red rocks are a product of erosion over millions of years and create a stunning backdrop for Sedona. Travellers from all over the world come to this town, which is regarded as one of the world’s most powerful energy hot spots. Here, shops sell crystals and crystal jewellery believed to be charged by Sedona’s sacred healing energy. 

Things to do in Sedona

• Experience Sedona’s Secret 7 trails known only to the locals by taking a guide. The things to do in Arizona will appear limitless once you explore some of the more secluded spots 
• Go kayaking in a high desert oasis on the Verde River. Enjoy the scenes, including many wine-tasting opportunities

3. Saguaro National Park

If you are a nature lover, Saguaro National Park is one of the places to visit in Arizona. The park is home to more than 1.5 million saguaro cacti, the most extensive cactus collection in the country. The cacti come in various sizes and shapes and have a more than 150 years lifespan. The park once had a saguaro recorded at 78 feet in height, but it fell from natural causes in 1986. 

Things to do at Saguaro National Park

• Enter the visitor centres at the West Unit and East Unit that have exhibits about the history, geology, and animals of the park
• The Cottonwood Campground and the Rincon Mountain Campground are the two campgrounds in the park. Camping is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the park's splendour and escape the crowds

4. Tucson 

One of the essential places to visit in Arizona, Tucson is a city renowned for its desert setting, thriving arts and cultural scene, and extensive past. Tucson is the second-largest city in Arizona. It is home to the world-renowned University of Arizona. Tucson has a vibrant arts and culture scene, enabling tourists, students, and artists with a lot of things to do in Arizona. It is also famous for the Saguaro cactus and a vibrant mix of Mexican-American culture.

Things to do in Tucson

• Visit the Pima Air and Space Museum, home to one of the largest collections of aircraft in the world
• Tour the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to learn about desert ecosystems
• Marvel at the 120-acre Tucson Botanical Gardens that showcases varieties of species from all around the world 

5. Phoenix

Phoenix is Arizona's capital and the largest city in the state. It is situated in the Sonoran Desert and is known for its hot desert climate, numerous golf courses, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Phoenix is also called the Valley of the Sun, as part of the state’s tourism-boosting strategy. Visitors will have plenty of things to do in Arizona when they include their Phoenix itinerary, a beautiful destination blending sunshine, beauty, and history.

Things to do in Phoenix

• Visit the Phoenix Zoo, home to over 3,000 wildlife from across the world, in their perfectly duplicated artificial habitats 
• Go hiking in Papago Park along trails such as Echo Canyon Trail and Toms Thumb Trail
• Visit the Heard Museum, famous for its depiction of Native American art and culture

Best Time to Visit Arizona

A tour of Arizona depends on individual preferences. To avoid the scorching heat, the best months are from October to April, while the best season for sightseeing is spring through autumn. Meanwhile, the best months to view the Grand Canyon are from March to May or September to November. Here is a breakup to help you:

• Phoenix and Central Arizona - November to April
• Northern Region - Spring and fall
• Southern Arizona - October to April
• Eastern Arizona - June to September

Travel Insurance for Arizona

International travellers visiting Arizona should prioritise travel insurance, especially as they will be more involved in outdoor activities, and medical expenses in the US can burn a hole in their pocket. Travel insurance helps meet costly medical bills and covers non-refundable costs arising from flight cancellations, unfavourable weather, medical issues, or family emergencies. Overall, travel insurance makes your plans about things to do in Arizona a reality as your worries are over, allowing you to enjoy to the fullest.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.