weird tourist attractions in arizona

10 Odd & Interesting Off-the-Beaten Path Arizona Destinations

• Last Updated: March 26th, 2024
• Written by: Maureen Therese

It is no secret that Arizona is home to some of the most unique landscapes in the country. With 6 distinct ecosystems, the state is one of the most geologically diverse in the country. Northern Arizona is most commonly associated with magnificent national parks, while the Southern portion of the state is most known for the fascinatingly unique Sonoran desert & Saguaro cactus.

With picturesque Oak Creek Canyon , the gorgeous red rocks of Sedona , the high altitude pine forests of Flagstaff , dozens of world-class winter vacation resorts in Phoenix and Tucson, spring training baseball games, and the magnificent Grand Canyon , Arizona sees millions of tourists each year, easily making it one of the most popular year-round vacation destinations in the country.

Despite the popularity, and resulting crowds and traffic, there are still a few fascinating hidden gems to explore besides the token national parks and luxurious winter resorts. The great thing about these unique attractions is that most of them are free, proving that you really do not need to spend much money to enjoy the state’s most fascinating sites. Here are 10 of my favorite eclectic off-the-beaten path Arizona attractions and activities! Enjoy reading this list and be sure to share some of your favorite Arizona oddities!

1. 2 Guns Ghost Town

30 minutes east of beautiful Flagstaff lies the remains of an unusual ghost town which was once home to a thriving zoo. Not much remains asides from a few crumpled down enclosures and the ruins and a Mountain Lions exhibit sign. It is quite an interesting experience to explore what once was a very popular Rt 66 attraction. Like all long gone Mother Road attractions, the zoo closed following the opening of the new highway. It’s a bit spooky walking around knowing that a zoo once existed where now stands nothing but barren desert land. It’s crazy to think just how much an area can change within a few short decades!

Location: I-40 Exit 320

2. The Petrified National Forest

Here’s an underappreciated gem which is definitely worthy of a look if you happen to be staying or traveling near the Northern Arizona region. At this unique national park, you will get the opportunity to view one of the largest collections of petrified wood in the world. Petrified wood refers to trees turned into stone via the process of permineralization. The crystals result from the replacement of the organic materials with quartz. These trees are over 225 millions years old, dating back to the Triassic Period.

Various means to explore the beautiful fossils including scenic hikes, a picturesque loop drive, overlooks, and an interpretative visitor’s center give you more than enough activities to make this a worthwhile day trip. You can even pick up your own piece of petrified wood in the gift shop!

Location:  1 Park Rd Holbrook, AZ 86025

More info on the Petrified National Forest

3. Sedona vortex sites

After just one visit to Sedona, you will definitely feel something strange in the air. The awe-inspiring, mysterious red rock views combined with an odd New Age vibe make it quite an eclectic vacation destination. However, it is also one of the Southwest’s most beautiful vacation destinations, and the trails here are amongst the most visually spectacular you will find anywhere in the country. Check out my top 12 Sedona trails! One of the most unique aspects of the already strange Southwest city is the presence of purported vortex sites.

Sedona is considered to be a positive energy vortex. This means that you may feel a positive vibe or sense of healing when visiting the area. Really though, it’s quite hard to visit and have a negative outlook when jaw dropping red rock formations surround you in every direction. The whole of Sedona is considered to be a vortex, although 4 particular hikes along with the Chapel of the Holy Cross are said to possess the most intense vortex energy. Check out Bell / Cathedral Rock , Airport Mesa , or Boynton Canyon hikes, all said to possess strong vortex energy. Bell Rock is the strangest vortex. In fact, numerous people over the course of several decades have reported UFO sightings.

Vortexes can hold a feminine yin or masculine yang energy. You will experience different effects depending on whether the energy is yang (energinging) or yin (relaxing). No one really knows if these vortex energies are real, although I can guarantee one thing, and that is, that you will surely leave with a more positive outlook after completing one of these breathtaking hikes.

Location: Click on the links above for individual addresses to each vortex site

4. Diamondback Bridge

Diamondback Bridge is a rattlesnake themed bridge near downtown Tucson. Obviously, this unique bridge is a pretty fitting choice for the Southwestern city as the Sonoran Desert is home to one of the largest concentrations of these feared venomous snakes. This unique bridge has won several awards including the Excellence in Highway Design award. Although it’s visible from the highway, it’s much more fun to walk or bike across the bridge as the views are great and the tail rattles after you cross! While the bridge is not worth going out of your way for, it’s worth a look if you happen to be visiting downtown Tucson for the day.

Location:  Broadway At Euclid Tucson, AZ 85707

5. Santa Claus Ghost Town

Santa Claus is another weird Arizona ghost town, and like 2 Guns, also pops up in the middle of the desolate desert. This one is even more unusual as it is home to the (very run down and graffiti covered) remains of a Christmas themed town which was once home to a popular Santa themed amusement park. Unfortunately, what once stood as a whimsical Santa themed land is now anything but cheerful – in fact it is downright depressing! Santa Claus, AZ is one of the many sad testaments to how time can change places so drastically!

The remains of Santa Claus are located enroute to Vegas, so it’s an easy side trip if you are heading this way. It’s just a quick detour off of US 93 about 20 minutes north of Kingston. If you are coming from Flagstaff, it’s a quick place to stretch your legs (the halfway mark to Vegas) before getting back on the road again for another 2 hours. If you are a Rt 66 fan, you may want to check out Kingman as well on the way as there are numerous historic attractions here including colorful Mother Road murals and a Rt 66 museum.

Location: US-93 between mile markers 57-58 on the west side of the Hwy

6. Jerome Grand Hotel & the Asylum

Jerome is often referred to as the “largest ghost town in America.” Today, the small Northern Arizona community resembles anything but a ghost town. Revitalization efforts have transformed the tiny town into a tourist destination. Art galleries, boutiques shops, and trendy restaurants populate the area taoday. Jerome is becoming a popular daytrip destination for those vacationing in the Northern Arizona region, although ghostly legends still remain. The same eerie ghost sightings dating back decades continue to plague visitor and locals. At one time, the Jerome Ghost Post was even published. Unlike other haunted towns where only one building is haunted, ghosts inhabit almost all of Jerome! Taking a ghost tour anytime of year, especially around Halloween, is a pretty fun experience.

Various paranormal groups have visited the area and reported the same creepy ghost sightings. The most haunted building in town is the Jerome Grand Hotel, not surprisingly, as it once was a mental institution. You can sign up for a narrated ghost tour where you will be able to use real ghost hunting equipment. And, if you are up for a real scare, book a night in the spooky hotel (many guests get so spooked that they end up sleeping in the lobby or leaving!). Or opt for the safer route and simply dine at the hotel’s restaurant, the Asylum, which of course, goes all out in the decor department around Halloween.

Location:  200 Hill St, Jerome, AZ 86331

More info on Jerome

7. Standin’ On a Corner Park

Standin’ on a Corner is a unique Rt. 66 roadstop tribute to the Eagles classic song Take It Easy. The most memorable lyrics in the song mention the small Northeastern Arizona town -“ Well, I’m a standing on a corner In Winslow, Arizona. And such a fine sight to see. It’s a girl, my Lord, in a flatbed Ford slowin’ down to take a look at me.”

This quirky attraction pops up in the middle of nowhere – you can’t miss it as there are more than enough billboards!  Winslow itself is an odd town as it resembles a ghost town despite having a population of almost 10,000. The downtown is pretty much barren asides from this attraction and a few Rt 66 gift shops. Also be sure to check out “The World’s Smallest Church,” which oddly is not the world’s smallest, but rather the smallest on the Mother Road.

Standin’ On a Corner is a must-do detour for any classic rock fans making their way out to the Petrified Forest or any other NE Arizona/Western New Mexico point of interest as it is directly on the route! In Winslow, you must also plan for a terrific lunch at The Turquoise Room inside the beautiful historic La Posada Hotel.

Location:  100 E Second St Winslow, AZ 86047. Plenty of free street parking available.

More info on Standin’ On a Corner park

8. Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

The Mini Time Museum is one of the more interesting places to visit on any Tucson vacation. While most Tucson museums focus on Arizona state history, this one is a bit more unusual in that it showcases more than 400 antique and modern dollhouses. There is so much detail in all these tiny pieces, it’s quite crazy to think that anyone could even accomplish such an impressive artistic feat. For a trip down memory lane, the Mini Time Museum is a must see. The museum is $15 bucks a person, although you can usually find a 2 for 1 brochure at almost any hotel.

Location:  4455 E Camp Lowell Dr Tucson, AZ 85712

More info on The Mini Time Museum

9. Tumbleweed Tree

Every year Chandler, in suburban Phoenix, puts on quite an unusual Christmas display. The annual Christmas tree downtown is composed entirely of tumbleweeds, making it the last still standing tumbleweed tree tradition in the Southwest. Tumbleweed collection begins in October, followed by a long process of constructing the tree, glittering, and painting. The end result is pretty amazing, and definitely one the most unique trees you will come across. If you happen to be planning a winter escape to the desert, this is just one of a number of interesting attractions to check out. Also be sure to look into the Phoenix Zoo Lights festival and the beautiful real desert themed ice rink at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess.

Location:  W Boston St Chandler, AZ 85225

More Christmas fun in Arizona

10. Picture Canyon

Flagstaff is home to many beautiful trails and also offers close access to numerous natural wonders . Although there are dozens of gorgeous high altitude pine and aspen mountain hikes to enjoy, one of the most interesting options is Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve. Over 800 petroglyphs from the Northern Sinagua tribes who occupied the area between 700-1300 A.D are found here. Unfortunately, this trail is pretty poorly marked. Hopefully rangers will put some effort into improved trail markage in the future.

Veit Springs is another great Flagstaff trail with pictographs hidden along the route (see opening phot0). Although there are only a few, the trail is much more scenic than Picture Canyon due to the high altitude. Come fall, gorgeous aspens which shimmer a brilliant gold line the trail. I would never recommend Picture Canyon above some of the more gorgeous trails in town (check out Inner Basin , Bear Jaw , the Aspen Nature Loop , and Slate Mountain first), although it’s a nice addition if you are staying in the area longer and looking for something unique to do!

More unusual/oddball Arizona attractions

El Tiradito Wishing Shrine

El Tiradito is a historic site near downtown Tucson which has the unique distinction of being the only US shrine dedicated to the soul of a sinner buried in unconsecrated ground. Visitors began lighting candles to free the soul of Juan Oliveros. Juan, who was having an affair with his mother-in-law, was caught, and killed at the site where the shrine sits today. Legend says that if you make a wish while lighting the candle and the flame burns throughout the night that your wish will come true. The shrine is a quick stop if you are already visiting the downtown area, although not necessarily worth going out of your way for unless you are a major history buff.

Location:  420 S Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

The Thing – Benson

At this odd roadside attraction off of I-10 about 17 miles east of Benson, AZ you pay 2 bucks to see what lies in a mysterious box. It is located in a travel plaza with a gas station, Dairy Queen, and gift shop on-site, so if you are traveling out this way enroute to Tombstone, Bisbee, or Katchner Caverns, it’s a place to stretch your legs and refuel. Don’t worry, you cannot miss this roadside attraction as endless billboards will constantly remind you to take Exit 322 to see “The Mystery of the Desert.” Not really my type of thing, but to each his own!

Location:  2631 Johnson Rd, Benson, AZ 85602

Horseshoe Bend – Page

Horseshoe Bend is one of numerous natural wonders in Arizona, and definitely worth checking out if you are staying or traveling anywhere near the Northern Arizona/Southern Utah region. It’s a perfect roadside stop on the way to any of the fabulous Utah national parks, especially Zion since it is so close by. This natural wonder truly is unique due to the odd horseshoe-like shape that the Colorado River naturally forms around the sandstone formation. A short & steep hike takes you to a stunning overlook with a 1000 foot drop. The hike is not at all shady, not to mention quite a workout, although worth it in the end for one of the grandest views in the Southwest!

Location:  Hwy 89 S, Page, AZ 86040

More info on Horseshoe Bend

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15 Truly Unique Experiences To Have In Arizona

Cindy Barks

• Activities and Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Architecture
• Destinations
• Food and Drink
• Grand Canyon
• History and Culture
• National Parks
• Outdoor Activities
• Petrified Forest
• Sightseeing
• Types of Travel
• United States
• United States National Parks

Fancy a bit of mining lore, a gunslinger legend or two, pop-culture references galore, and a forest of 225-million-year-old petrified trees?

Well, there’s one place on Earth where you’ll find them all.

Arizona, with its extreme deserts, mountains, and canyons, has a culture all its own. And while every state has its own quirks and phenomena, Arizona lays claim to a host of natural features and activities that set it apart.

With elevations ranging from just 70 feet above sea level along the Colorado River to 12,633 feet in the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff, Arizona spans five distinct climate zones and is home to a wide variety of landscapes.

Here are 15 truly unique experiences that you can only have in the Grand Canyon State.

1. Visit A Moonscape

Walk among the flat-topped mesas and sculpted buttes of the Petrified Forest National Park in northeastern Arizona, and you’ll surely feel like you’ve been transported to another world — or perhaps merely to the moon.

The park’s Blue Mesa Trail takes hikers into the heart of the otherworldly badlands — an eerie landscape dotted with mounds of petrified wood. The National Park Service describes the petrified wood as 225-million-year-old trees that have been fossilized and are made up of almost solid quartz.

2. Channel The Eagles

If the Eagles were ever your jam, or even if they weren’t, one of the 1970s/1980s rock band’s lines will probably ring a bell.

“Well I’m a-standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona” turned out to be a musical shout-out with staying power. The line from the band’s 1972 hit “Take It Easy” put the small northeastern-Arizona town on the pop-culture map.

Today, the community has immortalized the lyric with the Standin’ on the Corner Park , located along a section of the old Route 66 in downtown Winslow. Complete with a statue of a guitar-wielding man on the corner — and yes, a flatbed Ford — the park offers plenty of fun photo ops for Eagles fans.

turtix / Shutterstock

3. Tour The Crater Made Famous By Starman

It’s nearly a mile across, more than 500 feet deep, and 50,000 years old. Meteor Crater , located about 37 miles east of Flagstaff, is so unusual that it has been featured in a number of science fiction movies. In the 1984 movie Starman , Jeff Bridges’s alien character famously made a run for Meteor Crater.

The crater is said to have formed when a nickel-iron meteorite struck the Earth. An interactive visitors center offers a crater-viewing area, a widescreen theater, and artifacts and exhibits. Guided rim tours are also available.

4. Cross A London Icon

As the story goes, a developer bought the real 1830s-era London Bridge from the City of London in the late 1960s. He then reassembled it in the Colorado River community of Lake Havasu City in a bid to entice tourists and prospective homebuyers.

The stunt paid off. The London Bridge, which crosses a channel of the river, is now one of Arizona’s top tourist attractions.

JoMo333 / Shutterstock

5. Search For Lost Gold

The search for gold was never easy, and the Lost Dutchman Mine in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains is a case in point. As perhaps the West’s most famous lost gold mine, it has inspired countless legends involving missing maps, treachery, and deathbed confessions.

Today, the fables come alive at Lost Dutchman State Park .

For many, the gorgeous desert terrain in the park and in the nearby Tonto National Forest is even more tempting than the prospect of gold. Routes such as the Peralta Trail take hikers deep into the stark and rugged area and offer glimpses of the famous Weavers Needle.

6. Plummet Down A Natural Waterslide

Sedona’s Red Rocks offer more than just stunning views. At Slide Rock State Park , the sandstone rocks also form an 80-foot-long chute that serves as the ultimate summer waterslide. Algae on the rocks creates a slippery slide for the adventurous.

The state park is located near Oak Creek at the site of an old apple farm.

7. Enjoy A Happy Hour Near A Natural Wonder

Both complementing and contrasting with the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon is the historic El Tovar Hotel , a former Harvey House built in 1903.

While the restaurant offers elegant dining, another option is the hotel’s lounge, which features a small adjoining veranda overlooking the canyon — it’s the perfect spot for an after-hike happy hour as the setting sun illuminates the natural wonder.

8. Travel Back In Time To The Wild West

The Earps made Tombstone their own back in the 1880s, and now you can, too. The southern-Arizona community known as “The Town Too Tough to Die” offers nonstop Western action along its wooden sidewalks, including reenactments of the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral .

GPSmith / Shutterstock

9. Stay At A Historic Lodge

For decades the Phantom Ranch has served as a shady oasis for weary hikers and mule riders who have ventured deep into the Grand Canyon. The 1922 lodge offers a store with basic provisions, as well as a dormitory and cabins, and is located near the banks of the Colorado River.

10. Walk Among Giants

Known for its massive pipe-like trunks reaching toward the sky, the organ pipe cactus is unique to one isolated spot in the United States — the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument , located in southern Arizona near the Mexican border. A walk among the spiky giants is sure to make you feel small, but in a good way.

11. Dine In An Asylum

Jerome was once known as “The Wickedest Town in the West,” and its Asylum Restaurant is a reminder of the days when the 1926 building served as a hospital for the raucous mining community perched on the side of a mountain.

Although never actually an insane asylum, the building that houses the restaurant and hotel has a slightly spooky vibe that makes it a popular destination for ghost hunters.

12. Browse A Navajo Flea Market

Navajo specialties such as frybread, kneeldown bread (Navajo tamales), and blue-corn mush don’t come any more authentic than they do at the Tuba City Flea Market . Along with an assortment of home-cooked Native American foods, the market offers a huge array of turquoise jewelry, colorful blankets, and native-inspired pottery.

Tuba City is located near the eastern edge of the vast Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, about 80 miles north of Flagstaff.

13. Refresh At A Route 66 Soda Counter

If it’s a vintage Route 66 experience you’re after, the Hackberry General Store will more than fit the bill. The former mining town in northwestern Arizona evolved over the years into a service station/general store featuring old signage and gas pumps, antique cars, and an authentic soda counter.

The general store is located on a scenic but isolated stretch of the old Route 66, about 30 miles northeast of Kingman.

14. Cliff Jump Into Spring Water

Perhaps no water feature in arid Arizona is more special than Fossil Creek . At a temperature of 70 degrees, water gushes from Fossil Springs at the bottom of a deep canyon on its way to the Verde River.

The calcium carbonate-rich water has a beautiful blue-green color, which adds to the appeal of the area. One of only two Wild and Scenic Rivers in Arizona, Fossil Creek attracts crowds of visitors despite its remote location. Many climb the cliffs above the falls to dive into the deep pools.

“Because of its beauty and year-round water, people are drawn to this area,” states the Coconino National Forest website. “The lushness of the riparian area strikes a sharp contrast to the dry and sparse desert vegetation that surrounds it.”

Permits are required to access the creek between April 1 and October 1.

15. Ride A Mule Through The Grand Canyon

Teams of mules provide a distinctly Arizonan mode of transportation to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. A local company offers overnight trips down the steep Bright Angel Trail and up the South Kaibab Trail the next day. The trips include a stay in the cabins at the historic Phantom Ranch.

A great alternative to hiking, the mule rides give visitors an opportunity to take in the cliffs of the canyon’s Inner Gorge, the Colorado River, and the panoramic views along the South Kaibab Trail. Space is limited.

Planning a trip to Arizona? See our other articles on the Grand Canyon State to learn more about the hiking trails, parks, petroglyphs, and natural wonders the area has to offer.

Cindy Barks is an Arizona-based newspaper reporter, freelance travel writer, and travel blogger. Her blog, NearandFarAZ gives readers an insider's view of the wonders of the U.S. Southwest, and a traveler's take on far-off locales from Panama to Hong Kong to the Czech Republic. Regardless of the destination, her goal is to find the perfect scenic hike, city walk, beach stroll, or road-trip jaunt, and bring it to life in her blog. Cindy's articles about outdoor adventures have appeared in numerous regional and national publications.

10 Unique & Strange Towns In Arizona To Add To Your Bucket List

Skip the regular tourist destinations and opt for these unique and strange towns in Arizona.

• Bisbee: Hauntingly unique town with creepy tales and vintage RV accommodations. Explore Evergreen Cemetery and Bisbee Séance Room.
• Paradise Valley: Wealthiest town with world-class golf courses and handmade bells at historic Cosanti. Enjoy dining and shopping.
• Globe: Storied town with a globe-shaped silver history. Visit Seneca Lake, Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive, and Round Mountain Park.

Arizona is home to some of the most beautiful destinations in the US and entices travelers from around the world. The state is one of the unique locations in the Southwest and offers plenty of weird places that tourists won’t find anywhere else in the world. Arizona might be loved for its world-famous bustling cities like Phoenix, but there is something exhilarating about exploring its lesser-known side. The unique and strange towns in Arizona to add to the bucket list give travelers an incredible chance to immerse themselves in the local culture. These places might not be among the most beautiful Arizona small towns one should visit , but they offer an authentic experience of the state.

Related: 10 Beautiful Arizona Hikes, Ranked By Their AllTrails Rating

See the haunted places, and The Shady Bell

Bisbee is a copper mining loved for its breathtaking architecture and numerous unique places to explore. The town is also among the most haunted spots in Arizona and has creepy tales. Some of the most haunted locations to explore in the city include Evergreen Cemetery and Bisbee Séance Room . The Shady Bell is not haunted but is another strange thing to experience in Bisbee and is perfect for lovers of RVs. The nine vintage trailers take travelers back to the 1940s and 1950s . It offers one of the strangest accommodation experiences, including TVs that only broadcast in two colors.

• Year founded: 1880
• Population: 4,907
• Things to do: Evergreen Cemetery and Bisbee Séance Room

9 Paradise Valley

Visit cosanti, a historic site that is home to handmade bells and wind chimes.

Paradise Valley is a town with a rural feel located east of Arizona’s capital, Phoenix. It is famous for being the wealthiest town in the state, with world-class golf courses, incredible culinary experiences, and a fantastic shopping scene. What makes this place unique is Cosanti, a designated historic site in Arizona with terraced landscaping and impressive garden courtyards. It is among the strangest places in the state of Arizona. Cosanti is home to handmade bells and windchimes, and vacationers can see these being created in person.

• Year founded: 1890
• Population: 12,658
• Things to do: Dining, shopping, and visiting Cosanti

A storied past, including the fact that it was named after a globe-shaped silver discovered there

Globe was founded in 1876 and boasts unique experiences that every traveler will fall in love with. Its name originates from the globe-shaped silver that was discovered near the townsite. Located in the middle of Tonto National Forest, this charming town has a long, fascinating history that involves silver miners, gunfighters, and ranchers, among others. Its legacy and unique name have endured through its discovery, mining period, and even today as one of the most stunning places to explore in Arizona. There are numerous things to do here, including Seneca Lake, Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive, and Round Mountain Park.

• Year founded: 1876
• Population: 7,185
• Things to do: Seneca Lake, Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive, and Round Mountain Park

7 Lake Havasu City

Home to a scenic coastline in a desert landscape.

Lake Havasu City is located on the California border, and the fact it has an incredibly scenic coastline makes it a unique destination, which makes it stand out among other tourist spots. It offers numerous outdoor activities, thanks to the pristine beaches, mountains, and the surrounding desert. Some of the best things to do in Lake Havasu City include lounging on the beach, kayaking on the lake, strolling along the historic London Bridge, and taking in the breathtaking mountain and water views.

• Year founded: 1964
• Population: 58,926
• Things to do: Lounging on the beach, kayaking on the lake, strolling along the historic London Bridge, and taking in the breathtaking mountain and water views

Related: 10 Small & Underrated Towns In Arizona

America's largest ghost town

Famous for its authenticity, Jerome is one of the strangest and most unique towns in Arizona and offers some of the most unforgettable memories. This spot was once the “wickedest town in the west” and has multiple unique places to explore. The Abandoned Post Office, which is about a quarter mile from the free parking lot, is among the most unusual places. The aging dates back to the mining days. Other strange places in Jerome include the Sliding Jail, Jerome State Historic Park, and the Gold King & Ghost Town.

• Year founded: 1899
• Population: 467
• Things to do: Explore the abandoned Jerome mine, take a ghost tour

Visit the Apache Death Cave

Winslow is a small, charming town in Navajo County. The town is famous for being featured in the Eagle song “Take it Easy.” It is among the unique and strange towns in Arizona to add to the travel bucket list. One of the most unusual places to explore here is the Apache Death Cave, which is located on Old Route 66. This cave is believed to be haunted by the Apache, who were burned to death by the Navajo. This followed after the Apache raided a Navajo encampment along the Little Colorado River in 1878 , killing every woman and child – and imprisoning three remaining girls (believed to have been murdered later). The cave has never been used since then, and the locals try to warn everyone that it’s cursed.

• Year founded: 1882
• Population: 8,961
• Things to do: Visit the Apache Cave

Breathtaking red sandstone formations and Sedona Vortexes, believed to emit energy

While there are small and underrated towns in Arizona that are great alternatives to Sedona , this place is like no other. What makes Sedona stand out from other destinations include its unique red rock formations and the Vortexes, which emit their energies. The Sedona Vortexes can be seen in Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon. Other unique things to do include visiting the spiritual stores and taking a healing massage treatment.

• Year founded: 1902
• Population: 9,896
• Things to do: Visit the Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon

3 Tombstone

Paranormal encounters.

The Southwest is home to some of the most haunted places in America , and Tombstone is among the spookiest locations in Arizona, with numerous ghostly stories to explore. Vacationers can stroll down the town’s streets, which are believed to be wandered by spirits. Taking a ghost tour is one of the best ways to enjoy some of the strangest experiences in Tombstone. Tombstone Terrors: Ghosts and Gunslingers of the Wild West allows vacationers to discover the town’s darker side by taking them through places like Crystal Palace and Big Nose, some of the eeriest locations.

• Best ghost tour to book: Tombstone Terrors: Ghosts and Gunslingers of the Wild West
• Cost: From $30
• Duration: 1 hour
• Stops to make: Bird Cage Theater, 113 E Safford St., Crystal Palace, Allen Street, and more

2 Wickenburg

Explore vulture city ghost town.

Wickenburg is an unusual gem with multiple strange things to experience. One of the top spots to explore is Vulture City Ghost Town, which is situated in the Sonoran Desert, just outside the town. Established in 1863, Vulture City Ghost Town is one of the things that make Wickenburg among the unique and strange towns in Arizona to add to a bucket list. It was a vibrant gold mining town until 1942, when it met its fate, thanks to the War Production Board, which authorized the shutting down of all the non-essential mines. Today, tourists can take a ghost tour of the abandoned remnants of this former mining town . The tour guide will walk the group through the haunted buildings as he narrates some of the creepy tales of the ghost town’s haunted history. One will get a chance to spot paranormal activities, including flickering lights and weird shadows in the historic buildings.

• Year founded: 1863
• Population: 8,045
• The year the Vulture City ghost town was established and abandoned: 1863 and 1942, respectively.
• Admission fee: $15 per person, $12 per senior/veteran, $7 per child (7-12), and free for kids aged 6 and below

Related: 10 Unique Arizona Road Trip Ideas

An unusual name and a sign with a weird statement written on it

Located in eastern Mohave County, Nothing is definitely one of the most unusual places to visit in Arizona. Its founding dates back to 1977 and is popular for its unusual name. While this town falls among the quirkiest places to explore in Arizona, there is no one living there. After several attempts to revive it, the town remains an abandoned ghost town with nothing except a restroom, ruined structures, and a sign written:

Town of Nothing Arizona. Founded 1977. Elevation 3269 ft. The staunch citizens of Nothing are full of Hope, Faith, and Believe in the work ethic. Thru-the-years-these dedicated people had faith in Nothing, hoped for Nothing, worked at Nothing, for Nothing.

Some vacationers are actually intrigued by places without anything to explore, and while Nothing lacks landmarks or fun adventures to experience, it entices people with its nothingness.

• Year founded: 1977
• Opening hours: 24 hours
• Admission fee: Free

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Arizona (AZ) » 25 Amazing Hidden Gems in Arizona

25 Amazing Hidden Gems in Arizona

Arizona, the sixth largest state in the United States of America, is a unique combination of diverse landscapes, rich history, and an eclectic culture.

Also known as the Grand Canyon State, the state was once home to several Native American clans.

One of the ‘four corners state’ (other three being Utah, Colorado, New Mexico), Arizona has immense opportunities for various kind of outdoor activities.

Whether it is tracking a glow-in-the-dark scorpion amidst the Sonoran Desert, exploring the Lower Antelope Canyon, ballooning over the desert, or exploring the rural mountains, the state has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday.

Apart from the many outdoorsy wonders known to the world, Arizona has a lot of treasures that most of us don’t know about.

Though some things are better left untouched, some demand our attention – because they deserve it!

Let’s explore some of the hidden gems in Arizona and see what the state has in store for us.

1. “Fireflies” The Yayoi Kusama Infinity Room, Phoenix

Displayed at the Phoenix Art Museum in the Contemporary Art Wing, “Fireflies” is a 25-square foot exhibition of mirror-lined walls, a black Acrylite roof, a polished black granite floor, and 250 LED lightbulbs that are programmed to alternate colors creating an ethereal experience that can overwhelm anyone’s notion of time and space.

Created in 2005, the exhibition is the brainchild of Yayoi Kusama, an 86-year-old Japanese artist who rebelled against the strictness of Japan and decided to live her life in the ‘Big Apple’ where she explored the bold Avant art scene and hung out with personalities like Joseph Carnell and Eva Hess.

Kusama once wrote to Richard Nixon offering him vigorous ‘physical intimacy’ in lieu of stopping the Vietnam War.

Currently back in Japan for her mental health concerns, the artist works voluntarily from her hospital and retains her title of “one of the greatest living artists of all times.”

2. The Domes, Casa Grande

Established to facilitate computer manufacturing in the 70s and 80s, The Domes are located at Casa Grande and are known to have become a center of satanic worship and ritualistic witchcraft.

Although the initial project never took shape and the foundation lays half-built and left to rot, the remnants of the unfinished construction looks quite fascinating, especially the ‘flying saucer’ look-alike structures.

Locals often claim to warn everyone of going into the tunnels for they believe that they carry bad omen, however, nothing substantial has been proven yet (except for the underage drinking and creepy rumors).

Though there is a “No Trespassing” sign by the structure, a little detour to the Domes won’t be so bad for your health (keep away from the tunnels if you wish).

3. Pumpkin Spring Pool, Littlefield

Arizona’s Grand Canyon is no secret.

In fact, if it weren’t for the Grand Canyon, the state may not even matter so much on the ‘tourist radar’. However, amidst all the great landscaped wonders that the historical geology offers, a section, looking much like a pumpkin, appears rather tempting to jump into and soak yourself.

But, DON’T.

The pumpkin-like structure, known as the Pumpkin Spring Pool, stores the most poisonous water in the Canyon.

The deadly but architecturally unique pool has taken shape from limestones and replicate not only the shape and color of the vegetable but also has matching stripes.

The water, which looks like it is full of minerals, is actually a ‘witch potion’ made of lead, copper, zinc and an incredibly high amount of arsenic.

Though limited exposure may not be downright fatal, swimming is a no-no.

And, don’t even think of drinking it (unless you have a death wish!). But, don’t miss a photography tour of the Pool – it is 100% worth it.

4. Grand Canyon Caverns Underground Suite, Peach Springs

Imagine hell decides to break loose while you are touring the world-famous Grand Canyon! Where would you go? How would you hide? What would you eat and drink? Don’t Worry.

President John F. Kennedy has you covered!

Apparently, then-President John F. Kennedy was a man with farsightedness and an amazing plan (of course! He was the President so he had to be). The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1961 fueled the President’s mind with an idea to build a safe haven for the evacuees, and thus, to protect his fellow countrymen, he ordered the construction of the Grand Canyon Caverns Underground Suite.

While the bombs never dropped (thank heavens!), the Underground Suite, located 220 below the Canyon surface and designed to house over 2,000 people, is equipped with emergency ration supply to feed the refugees for a month.

Additionally, the Suite also houses double beds, TV, a record player, a mini library, and running water.

Currently owned and operated by the Grand Canyon Cavern Motel (found above ground), this rodent-free, zero-humidity, Suite is available to rent for $800 a night.

It may seem a little extravagant (perhaps not given it is the safest and the quietest room in the world), a night here is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

5. Apache Death Cave, Winslow

On the Old Route 66 lays one of the most terrifying caverns in Arizona history – the Apache Death Cave.

As the story goes, in 1878, a group of Apaches decided to attack a Navajo community who camped by the banks of the Little Colorado River.

When the leader of Navajo tribe, the second largest of its kind to be federally registered in the country, received word of it, sent his men to avenge the deaths of his fellow tribesmen.

After an unsuccessful attempt was made to destroy the Apache raiders the first time, Navajos got hold of them anyway when a second attack happened.

All hell broke loose on the Apaches and revenge was served.

Since then, no Apache men ever have set foot in or around the Death Cave.

6. Mystery Valley, Kayenta

A sun-dried valley tucked away in the corner of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, the Mystery Valley is a relatively unfamiliar and moderately challenging stretch of desert which is till date regarded sacred by the tribe.

A captivating section of Monument Valley, the Mystery Valley is believed to have been totally submerged underwater by geologists.

Home to an intricate assortment of superb geological formations, scattered artifacts, and petroglyphs, this hidden gem offers some of the most breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Formed because of erosion by water and wind over a million years, Mystery Valley was once home to Anasazi tribe, and, was later inhabited by the Navajo aka Diné tribe who still own the area and rule it as per their tribal laws.

Access to the Valley is only permitted under the supervision of Diné guide.

7. Valley of the Moon, Tucson

Once known as “The Mountain Gnome”, Valley of the Moon was the creation of a postal clerk, George Legler, who started the project in the 1920s with a vision to create an imaginary world where kindness and peace could be harbored.

While working as a clerk, Legler decided that he wanted to do something different with his life, something noble, and hence, decided to create the project.

He started with buying the land in 1917, and with the support and aid of some of his close friends, began giving life to his dreamland.

‘The Valley” was constructed to have enchantingly winding paths, hidden caverns, and towers and walls made of boulders.

Legler, along with his friends, continued expanding the fantasy world and offered tours of the land of the moon.

After the man behind the vision fell too ill, a group of Catalina high school students, in 1967, befriended Legler and offered to maintain and preserve the site.

It is now operated by the George Phar Legler Society.

8. Arcosanti, Mayer

Construction on Arcosanti began in 1970 by architect Paolo Soleri who wanted to create an experimental urban development based on a concept he referred to as ‘arcology.’

Based on his idea of how an urban development could be built and improved without destroying the earth, Arcosanti was meant to house over 5,000 residents.

Even though lack of proper funding has resulted in the development of the project to slow down, workshops and classes organized to promote the site attract students and enthusiasts from all over the world.

Additionally, funds are being raised by the sale of artistic items created inside the concept-community.

The organic and elaborate structure or Arcosanti includes a chain of apartments, a five-story visitor center, a ceramic apse, a public swimming pool, and an outdoor auditorium.

9. The Wigwam Village #6, Holbrook

The American Southwest seems to always render a nostalgic feeling to the citizens of the country and anybody remotely familiar with Arizona’s ‘Cowboy’ history of the 1950s.

First created by Chester E. Lewis in 1950 as an homage to the American Southwestern culture, the Wigam Motel (as it was formally named) offered a series of clean, safe, and budgeted guestrooms that were modeled to resemble teepees.

The developers of the project preferred “wigwam” over “teepees”, and, thus, they came to be known as the “Wigwam Motel.”

Run by the Lewis family, The Wigwam Village #6 isn’t the only one of its kind (there is #7 and #2), but, it is definitely the most iconic of them all.

10. 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group, Tucson

First things first, you just can’t waltz your way into the largest military aircraft cemetery in the world! You need to sign up for a tour of Space Museum and Pima Air.

And, let’s say you have managed that.

So, here is what to expect in an aircraft burial ground –

In Tucson, Arizona, on the grounds of the Davis-Montham Air Force Base lays what can be easily termed as an “Airplane lover’s paradise.” Formerly known as the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (long for AMARG), the 2,600-acre huge space is filled with lines and lines of retired aircrafts.

Popularly known as the “Boneyard”, AMARG houses almost every kind of plane that has ever been used by the US Armed Forces since World War II.

B-29 and C-74 (from after the WWII), B-52 Bombers (Cold War), F-4 fighter (Vietnam War) share space with civilian aircrafts such as 707s.

11. Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In, Seligman

Who doesn’t know of America’s obsession with life-like road trips? And, even if, let’s say you didn’t, there is no way you haven’t heard of the Route 66 at least a hundred times so far.

Located on the longest stretch of Route 66, Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In takes your highway cruising to whole new level of humor.

Juan Delgadillo built this now-landmark in 1953 as an eatery to serve fries and burgers on the same plate as jokes and laughter.

Built mostly out of junk from a railroad yard, the diner came into attention when Delgadillo sliced the roof of his car and decorated it with quirky stickers and a fake Christmas tree.

Though redecorations and architectural improvements still happen inside and outside, the Drive-In refuses to sober down on their eccentric jokes (and trust us, it’s better this way!).

What adds to the nostalgia and humor are the hundreds and thousands of souvenirs that passing travelers like to leave here.

12. Curious Nature, Phoenix

Let’s face it – Arizona is arid and soaked in sun.

Canyons, rock formations, and deserts are alright but a taxidermy shop?

Much to your surprise (and ours), Curious Nature is a small but elaborate taxidermy emporium secretly tucked away behind an unpretentious storefront in the city’s art district.

The ‘dead-animal’ display has an ever-rotating list of preserved animals which include a frozen toad, octopi, squid, bison testicles (huh!), and strangely adorable preserved ducklings.

Additionally, Curious Nature is home to certain species you wouldn’t think of looking for around a desert.

A floor-to-ceiling cabinet displays animal skulls arranged as per their size.

Sea stars, geodes, framed insects, anatomical art, and educational books on taxidermy scatter around the room.

Though there are other such stores in the United States, this unexpected shop in the middle of Arizona is definitely worth a visit.

13. Abandoned Jerome Post Office, Jerome

Jerome, perhaps the ‘largest ghost town in the United States’ as well as the ‘most vertical’ (standing 5,200 feet above sea level), has been lost in time more than once.

But, the town’s mysterious resurgence on the face of the earth is a story one appreciates, like the many artsy corners and historic houses in the city.

One place that gets overlooked, probably because it still stays lost in time, is the Jerome Post Office – a huge structure located close to the town’s parking lot that now fades slowly into oblivion.

Truth be told, it is perhaps not the safest edifice to set your foot in (the structure is decaying and totally unpredictable), however, even a visit from the outside can be a reminder how fast a community can perish and how irrepressible it could be.

14. The Shady Dell, Bisbee

Found at the intersection of Highway 80 and 92 in Bisbee, Arizona, The Shady Dell came about in 1927 as a trailer park and camping area for travelers wanting a break in their journey to relax for a while.

What started as simple campground has now transformed into a vintage collection of trailers that double up as well-equipped, modern guestrooms.

The Shady Dell houses nine classic travel trailers, some of which are a 1950 Spartan Manor, a 1951 33-foot Royal Mansion fitted with dinner-style breakfast booth, martini glasses, leopard carpet, and a series of 78rpm records, and, of course, the highly popular 1947 Tiki Bus Polynesian Palace.

To complement the antique vibe, vintage-radios play radio programmes from the era, televisions broadcast only in two colors, and magazines and books from the time décor the area.

15. Cinder Lake Crater Field, Flagstaff

Cricketers and footballers practice on the fields, racers practice on the tracks, boxers train at the rings, where do astronauts go? Most importantly, where did the first ones to the moon train?

NASA chose the former volcano for its spongy volcanic gravel which closely felt familiar to that of moon rock.

The scientists at the organization, in an attempt to match the moon’s surface as best as they could, mapped the satellite’s craters and created the Cinder Lake Crater.

It took several scientists, endless studies, and series of well-orchestrated dynamite blasts to create the perfect pothole where lunar rovers and future astronauts could practice.

Though a lot of the field has been filled in due to erosions and destroyed by four-wheelers, some of the craters still remain.

16. Large Binocular Telescope, Safford

Why do you think human beings and animals have two eyes instead of one (like the minions)? No idea? Well, firstly, so that you have a spare if you lost one, and second, it expands our ability to see far and see deep.

Telescopes or Binoculars help us do the same thing, only 50 times better.

And, LBT or the Large Binocular Telescope installed in the Arizona Pinaleno Mountains is as great as it gets, perhaps even the best since it is highly likely that it is the ‘Largest Telescope in the World.”

LBT was made with two 27-feet-across, giant-like mirrors which weigh 1.77 metric tons each, and were crafted at Steward Observatory Mirror Lab located near University of Arizona and is one of the only few places on earth capable of doing something like this.

Together, the giant-eye like mirrors provide resolution of 75 feet and a clarity which is reportedly better than Hubble Space Telescope – you know the one in SPACE!

17. Jack Rabbit Trading Post, Winslow

Arizona has two things (among several others) that make it super famous – the Grand Canyon and a stretch of road that falls on the historic Route 66 map.

And so, it isn’t surprising that the stretch holds more than one Arizona treasure.

Jack Rabbit Trading Post, a souvenir shop from the 1940s, located on I-40 that runs through the state, is marked by a giant fiberglass rabbit that is open for you or your little ones to hop onto.

As iconic as it may be to the route, the store has seen several ups and downs, including the creation of the interstate, the rise and fall of Route 66, and being passed on from one owner to another.

However, James Taylor, the original owner, was a clever business man who saw to it that the store held its post.

In an advertisement attempt, he put up billboards and hand-painted signs of the iconic Jack Rabbit along the major chunk of the route (from Arizona to Missouri) and a “HERE IT IS” billboard just next to the store.

18. Rose Tree Museum, Tombstone

Originally supposed to be a part of the collection at Rose Tree Museum located at the prominent wild west town, Tombstone, Arizona, the rose bush in the backyard of the museum has outgrown the popularity of the museum.

A gift from Scotland, the bush was initially a cutting from a Lady Banksia Rose and planted in the garden in 1885. The shrub received the status of the “World’s Largest Rose Bush” in the 1930s and has continued to grow ever since.

The bush (that looks like a canopy) now covers over 5,000 feet of space and is held up by a strategically placed series of steel and wooden supports.

Next time, you want to take your family out for a picnic – do it under the world’s largest rose bush-come-tree.

19. Chloride Ghost Town, Chloride

So, you have heard of the strangely-named Santa Claus town, but what you didn’t perhaps hear about is this typical Wild West village known as the Chloride Ghost Town which is way more than just a ‘tourist trap.’

Look closer and you will find a town that is decorated with peculiar giant murals and wonderfully inexplicable junk collection.

Established in 1862, Chloride was once a thriving mining town with over 75 mines and 5,000 villagers.

Gold, silver, and turquoise were dug up from the grounds of the town for over six decades until a fire burnt down the town in the 1920s.

In the next two decades, Chloride was nothing but a ghost town.

Thankfully, the Ghost Town is trying to rise from the dead.

In fact, Chloride houses the only all-female gun fighting troupe in the world.

Among the town’s bizarre artistry, a gas tank turned flamingo, a tin man with a blue helmet riding half a motorcycle, a glass bottle tree, and a caterpillar made of bowling balls make for brilliant photography.

20. Her Secret Is Patience, Phoenix

Named after a famous Ralph Waldo Emerson quote, Her Secret Is Patience is an enormous art installation created by Janet Echelman and displayed at Phoenix Civic Park Space.

At 145-feet tall and 100-feet in the space, the giant structure has been made of polyester twine netting, galvanized steel, and a careful combination of lights.

The brainchild of Echelman, the exhibit is a joint effort of architects, lighting designers, planners, engineers, and fabricators.

Inspired by the state’s cloud shadows, the art installation has been crafted to resemble ‘shadow drawings.’ The structure moves with breeze during the day and lights up with various colorful lights during the night.

That’s not all, the lights change color according to the season.

21. Area 66, Yucca

Built in the 1970s to be a restaurant and nightclub as a part of an experimental real-estate project, Area 66, as it has been named by its new owners, is a huge golf ball-like structure with a 40-foot-diameter.

To believe that it was supposed to be anything but a strange-looking museum is almost impossible.

Maybe, it is for this reason that the ‘golf ball house’ has been remodeled and will soon be open to the public as a museum!

Entry inside is prohibited but taking pictures of even the exteriors seems totally worthwhile.

Area 66 once housed bedrooms, bathrooms, a living room, and a kitchen – a total of 3,400 square feet of space.

22. History of Pharmacy Museum, Tucson

Opened in 1966, the History of Pharmacy Museum in Tucson, Arizona is the prized collection of a former pharmacist from the town, Jesse Hurlburt.

The Museum is a collection spread over four-floors of some of the weirdest pharmaceutical objects.

History of Pharmacy Museum comprises numerous drug containers, pharmacy books, over 60,000 bottles, and other related pharmaceutical equipment.

Old wood counters and shiny brass instruments add to the museum’s collection.

Among the many oddities that are housed in the History of Pharmacy Museum is a glass jar that is filled with John Dillinger’s (yes, the gangster) old chewing gum.

23. Humphreys Peak B-24 Wreckage, Flagstaff

Humphrey Peak is the highest point in Arizona and tucked away near it are the remnants of a B-24 Liberator Bomber, which belongs to the US Army Air Force.

The bomber plane crashed near the summit on September 25, 1944, and killed all the eight members on board.

The crash site, highly inaccessible, remained the way it was with parts of the engine and the metal body scattered all around.

It’s not so easy to locate due to the treacherous boulder field and trail that leads to the crash site, but once found it will give you a sense of accomplishment that not many can claim.

Even if you do not make it to the main crash site, the remains of the wreckage can still be found around the area.

24. Ella’s Frontier Trading Post, Joseph City

Among the many trading posts set along Route 66, Ella’s Frontier Trading Post has a bit of an unsure past.

The original trading post, called the San Diego’s Old Frontier Trading Post, was constructed by Frederick “San Diego” Rawson, a man of many talents – taxidermist, former circus clown, and an on-and-off poet.

Rawson built the structure out of old telephone poles.

The story gets a little confusing after this.

A version claims that the Trading post was sold to Don Lorenzo Hubbell or perhaps to his son, who may have later sold it to Ray Meany, the Hawaiian bandleader, and his wife, Ella Blackwell.

However, another theory states that it was sold straight to Ray and Ella.

Despite its dodgy history, the trading post belonged to the couple by 1947 and was renamed as The Last Frontier.

After Ray and Ella divorced, Ella got the trading post and changed its name to Ella’s Frontier Trading Post, one that still sticks.

The site stands abandoned and dilapidated since after Ella’s death in 1984.

25. Abandoned Longhorn Grill, Amado

Constructed in the 1970s, the Longhorn Grill was the craftsmanship of an innovative entrepreneur who clearly appreciated the strength of giant skulls and unique architecture.

Resembling a gigantic cow skull with SUPER BIG horns that rests against a massive rock, the edifice was built to act as a clothing store, a bait shop, and a roofing company.

In 1993, the space was turned into a steakhouse – a business that most aptly matched the personality of the building.

Last reported it was a restaurant which shut down for business in 2012.

The Longhorn Grill has been known to have no residents since then, and though it is said to host for parties and the like, the structure looks highly deserted and out of operation.

Take as many photos as you like but think twice before trespassing into an abandoned animal skull of this reputation.

25 Amazing Hidden Gems in Arizona:

• "Fireflies" The Yayoi Kusama Infinity Room, Phoenix
• The Domes, Casa Grande
• Pumpkin Spring Pool, Littlefield
• Grand Canyon Caverns Underground Suite, Peach Springs
• Apache Death Cave, Winslow
• Mystery Valley, Kayenta
• Valley of the Moon, Tucson
• Arcosanti, Mayer
• The Wigwam Village #6, Holbrook
• 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group, Tucson
• Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In, Seligman
• Curious Nature, Phoenix
• Abandoned Jerome Post Office, Jerome
• The Shady Dell, Bisbee
• Cinder Lake Crater Field, Flagstaff
• Large Binocular Telescope, Safford
• Jack Rabbit Trading Post, Winslow
• Rose Tree Museum, Tombstone
• Chloride Ghost Town, Chloride
• Her Secret Is Patience, Phoenix
• Area 66, Yucca
• History of Pharmacy Museum, Tucson
• Humphreys Peak B-24 Wreckage, Flagstaff
• Ella's Frontier Trading Post, Joseph City
• Abandoned Longhorn Grill, Amado

• Select a State

8 of the Best (and Most Offbeat) Attractions in Arizona!

Arizona is a state full of many interesting yet unusual places that sure add to its uniqueness. Let us look at the 8 offbeat tourist attractions in Arizona that you just cannot miss!

Flintstones Bedrock City, Williams, AZ

Inspired from the adored cartoon series The Flintstones, Bedrock City is located a little north of Williams, Arizona that features lifelike replicas of the popular show.

Biosphere 2, Oracle, AZ

While the rest of the world is still wondering about the possibility of survival in outer space, Biosphere 2 has made it possible! Well, not literally. This place was designed so as to experiment life in a foreign world. The people that live or work in here have tried to create a self-sustaining world in this dome. Biosphere 2 is located a little bit north of Tucson. If you are wondering what Biosphere 1 is as well, it's earth!

Wigwam Motel, Holbrook, AZ

The Wigwam Motel is a relic of the Route 66 days. Peppered with tents and campsites, this place was also featured in the Pixar movie "Cars."

Meteor Crater, Winslow, AZ

In Winslow, Arizona there is this 4,000-foot-wide hole that is known to be the best preserved meteor crater on earth!

The Domes, Casa Grande, AZ

The bizarre setup and intriguing dome like structure was built as an electronic manufacturing location, however The Domes is also rumored to be a place of satanic rituals and dark magic.

Airplane Boneyards, Tucson, AZ

Sounds creepy and scary right? No, the place doesn't have bones. Instead it offers a strange collection of old, battered, and abandoned airplanes. Situated next to the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, it features the largest collection of scrap parts and old airplanes.

The Sundial, Carefree, AZ

The Sundial in Carefree, Arizona offers the third largest sundial in the western hemisphere! Built in 1959, this 90-foot-long sundial points to the North Star and is made of steel and anodized copper.

The Underground Suite, Peach Springs, AZ

The Grand Canyon Cavern Underground Suite set in Peach Springs, Arizona is among the oldest, largest, and creepiest motels in the world!

FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel Debuts 51 Frames: A Randy Johnson Photography Exhibit May 2, 2024

William herbert "buck" dunton: a mainer goes west, exhibition: chandler a to z, exhibition - shutter and sound: the jazz photography of bob willoughby, exhibition - the fourth grade project, play unstoppable festival, int'l folk dance practice, gentle tai chi qigong, pancho barraza, cinco de mayo weekend celebration, usery mountain regional park.

Arizona Wing Commemorative Air Force Museum

Four Peaks Wilderness Area

Goldfield Ghost Town

Superstition Mountain Museum

Lost Dutchman State Park

Mesa Historical Museum

Rockin' R Ranch

Superstition Mountain

WestWorld of Scottsdale

Octane Raceway

Fiddlesticks Family Fun Park

Tough Mudder

Mesa Grande Cultural Park

Apache County

• Fort Defiance
• Petrified Forest Natl Pk
• Saint Johns
• Saint Michaels
• Springerville
• Teec Nos Pos
• Window Rock

Cochise County

• Fort Huachuca
• Huachuca City
• Pirtleville
• Saint David
• Sierra Vista

Coconino County

• Forest Lakes
• Grand Canyon
• Gray Mountain
• Marble Canyon
• Mormon Lake

Gila County

• Star Valley
• Tonto Basin

Graham County

• Fort Thomas

Greenlee County

La paz county, maricopa county.

• Chandler Heights
• Fort McDowell
• Fountain Hills
• Glendale Luke AFB
• Litchfield Park
• Paradise Valley
• Sun City West
• Tortilla Flat

Mohave County

• Bullhead City
• Colorado City
• Dolan Springs
• Fort Mohave
• Golden Valley
• Lake Havasu City
• Littlefield
• Mohave Valley
• Peach Springs
• Temple Bar Marina
• Willow Beach

Navajo County

• Clay Springs
• Fort Apache
• Indian Wells
• Joseph City
• Keams Canyon
• Kykotsmovi Village
• Second Mesa
• White Mountain Lake

Pima County

• Green Valley
• Mount Lemmon
• Saddlebrooke

Pinal County

• Apache Junction
• Arizona City
• Casa Grande
• Gold Canyon
• Queen Creek
• San Tan Valley
• Valley Farms

Santa Cruz County

Yavapai county.

• Black Canyon City
• Chino Valley
• Iron Springs
• Lake Montezuma
• Prescott Valley
• Skull Valley

Yuma County

Change state.

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Home » Roadside Attractions Blog » Arizona Tourist Attractions & Road Trip Stops » The 20 Best Arizona Roadside Attractions

The 20 Best Arizona Roadside Attractions

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Are you planning an Arizona road trip and want to find all the best Arizona roadside attractions along your route? Whether you’re getting your kicks on Route 66, visiting the Grand Canyon, or vacationing in Phoenix, Tuscon, Scottsdale or Sedona, you won’t want to miss these twenty must-see places to go in Arizona. They’re fun road trip stops and great additions to your travel itinerary or route.

Below are the 20 best roadside attractions in Arizona: from a giant green head to some big green dinosaurs, from a restaurant shaped like a giant gopher to motel with rooms shaped like teepees, from a yard full of eclectic things to a…thing? You won’t want to miss any of these bucket list worthy tourist traps and road trips stops on your Arizona vacation.

The Road Trip Journal & Activity Book

Everything you need to have and record an epic road trip.

Enjoy fun games and challenges to pass the time on your next road trip and have a keepsake to look back on for years to come with this entertaining must-have for your next vacation.

Ready to hit the road? Let’s go! I call shotgun!

1. The Thing

2. giganticus headicus, 3. rainbow rock shop dinosaurs.

• 4. Standin' on the Corner Park

5. Topo Gopher

• 6. Stewart's Petrified Wood

7. Rattlesnake Bridge

8. wigwam village motel no. 6.

• 9. Don Parks's Yard Art Collection

10. Oatman Burros

11. twin arrows trading post ruins, 12. building shaped like a longhorn skull.

• 13. Hi Jolly's Tomb

14. Hackberry General Store

15. london bridge, 16. o.k. corral, 17. world’s largest kokopelli, 18. casa grande neon sign park, 19. grand canyon caverns, 20. jackrabbit trading post, the 20 best arizona roadside attractions (in no particular order):.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kw Nash-Satterfield (@okcdirtbag)

2631 N Johnson Rd, Benson, AZ 85602

There are more than 200 signs for “The Thing” next to the road between El Paso, Texas , and Tucson, Arizona. And my theory if that many sign beg for you to stop, you stop (see also Wall Drug in South Dakota and Little America in Wyoming) . While The Thing was once a sleepy Arizona roadside attraction, it was remodeled in 2018 to take its kook up a notch. Enter The Thing and be prepared for an exhibit of dinosaurs, aliens, pharaohs, and conspiracy theories. All of this leads to The Thing itself. What is The Thing? You’ll have to follow the road signs and see for yourself.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dana Jeanne Keller (@danajkeller) on Aug 19, 2019 at 6:12pm PDT

Route 66 Antares Visitor Center and Art Gallery, 9855 AZ-66, Kingman, AZ

Part tiki. Part moai. All kitsch. Giganticus Headicus is a big green head at the Antares Visitor Center and a must-see roadside attraction in Arizona. In 2003 artist Gregg Arnold created this 14-foot-tall statue out of metal, wood, chicken wire, Styrofoam, cement, and green paint. He installed it at what used to be the Kozy Korner RV Park and renovated the area to now have a convenience and gift shop, restaurant and picnic area, and art gallery to display even more of his creations.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melissa Jackson (@lpinkblonde) on May 18, 2020 at 11:09pm PDT

Rainbow Rock Shop, 101 Navajo Blvd, Holbrook, AZ

Dinosaur roadside attractions abound across Arizona, and especially in Holbrook. But the place to see them is at Rainbow Rock Shop. The shop’s owner Adam Luna built 11 dinos out of cement and each is better than the last. Stop here to get your dino fix with these sculptures, a mural, and some bones, and pick up a few rocks while you’re there.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Standin’ On The Corner (@standinonthecorner) on Aug 29, 2019 at 6:37pm PDT

4. Standin’ on the Corner Park

Corner of Kinsley &, E 2nd St, Winslow, AZ

“Now I’m a-standin’ on the corner in Winslow, Arizona with such a fine sight to see…” If the Eagles hit song “Take it Easy” is stuck in your head, head to Winslow where you can experience the song in real life. On a corner in Winslow you’ll find a life-size statue of a man with a guitar, a mural with the girl and flatbed Ford from the song, and an eagle in honor of the band.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Topo (@topoarizona) on Jan 6, 2020 at 10:05am PST

301 N Gilbert Rd bldg 2, Gilbert, AZ

When Joe Johnston set out to open a small food stand in 2019, he wanted to go big. His restaurant Topo is topped with a giant 7-foot tall styrofoam and steel gopher and is inspired by “iconic roadside architecture in the spirit of the great American road trip.” It quickly became a must-see Arizona roadside attraction so stop by for photos and to grab a burrito, elote, or soft serve.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brennen & Parker (@parkeranddadgoexploring)

6. Stewart’s Petrified Wood

9406 Washboard Rd, Holbrook, AZ

Petrified wood (fossilized remains of terrestrial vegetation) abounds in Arizona, so if you want to make your petrified wood shop stand out, you have to do something different. At Stewart’s Petrified Wood you’ll find some kooky handmade dinosaur creations. Some are animated, others crush bloody mannequins in their jaws, and others are decorated with blinking Christmas lights. It’s worth a stop to check them out on a road trip through Arizona.

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Iron Horse Park, 75 N 1st Ave, Tucson, AZ

Rattlesnake Bridge (also known as Diamondback Bridge) is a pedestrian bridge built in the image of a larger-than-life diamondback rattlesnake. At either end is a snake head complete with fangs or a slithering tail, rattling 30 feet above the ground. People on foot or bicyclists can walk through the scaled body across Broadway Blvd. The bridge was designed by artist Simon Donovan in 2002.

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811 W Hopi Dr, Holbrook, AZ

After being inspired by a visit to Kentucky’s Wigwam Village No. 2 , Chester Lewis decided to buy the rights to the teepee-shaped motel complex and erected several more in the U.S. Holbrook’s Wigwam Village Motel No. 6 was built in 1950 and is one of very few left today. Located right off Route 66, this wigwam motel still attractions Arizona road trippers in search of nostalgia.

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9. Don Parks’s Yard Art Collection

8009 W Weldon Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85033

Don Parks bought his house in the West Valley neighborhood of Phoenix in 1971 and almost immediately started filling his yard with his collections. There are road signs, dinosaurs, Simpsons characters, McDonald statues, knights in armor, and a towering Paul Bunyan Muffler Man. Every inch is packed with fun surprises. In fact, Parks’s collection of eclectic yard art got so big he purchased the house across the street and filled that too!

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Main St, Oatman, AZ

During the gold boom of the early 1900s, Oatman was a bustling town. But when the gold dried out, the miners left, abandoning their burros along the way. Those burros stayed behind and their descendants still populate the area today. Drive into Oatman and be prepared to be surrounded by the furry creatures begging for food. Be sure to also stay to watch the daily Wild West gun fights performed throughout the day.

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Route 66, Twin Arrows, AZ

Twin Arrows Trading Post began its life in the 1940s as Canyon Padre Trading Post. The Route 66 stop was once home to a diner, a souvenir shop, a gas station, and two big arrows jutting into the ground. But a nearby highway started driving people away from the site, and, after many years changing hands, Twin Arrows was abandoned in 1995. The graffiti-stained building has fallen into disrepair, but the two arrows remain for an Arizona road trip pit stop.

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Longhorn Grill and Saloon, 28851 S Nogales Hwy, Amado, AZ

Since the 1970s this giant longhorn skull-flanked building has been home to many businesses over the years. Most recently, it serves as the entrance to Longhorn Grill and Saloon.

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13. Hi Jolly’s Tomb

W Elsie Ln & Hi Jolly Lane, Quartzsite, AZ

Hadji Ali (AKA Hi Jolly) was a camel driver hired by the US army to lead a camel driver experiment in the American Southwest in 1856. The experiment was cut short due to the Civil War and Ali ended up staying in Quartzsite with his camels. After his death in 1902, a small pyramid tomb was erected in his honor.

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11255 AZ-66, Kingman, AZ

Hackberry General Store is a ramshakle store with a long past. It was built in 1934 but laid abandoned for many years until Bob Waldmire (a Route 66 enthusiast) reopened it in 1992. It has since gone through many other owners but each one has stayed committed to not renovating keeping the store’s vintage charm. The store sells snacks and souvenirs and oozes nostalgia with its rusting road sign exterior and long-dry gas pumps out front. It’s no wonder this classic Route 66 icon is still a popular Arizona roadside attraction.

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1340 McCulloch Blvd, Lake Havasu City, AZ

We all know the “London Bridge is falling down” nursery rhyme, but did you know that the actual London Bridge actually did come down…and came back up in Arizona? In 1968 Robert P. McCulloch paid London a large sum of money for the bridge and then spent even more shipping it over and reassembling it. With no water to assemble it over, McCulloch had a mile-long river build beneath it.

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326 E Allen St, Tombstone, AZ

The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral was a brief shootout between lawmen and members of the Cowboys, a loosely organized group of outlaws, in 1881. The rumble, though it only took about 30 seconds in all, is generally regarded as the most famous shootout in the history of the American Wild West. You can relive this famous scene in Tombstone, where a local group reenacts the fight once a day (with dummies filling in the rest of the time).

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1620 AZ-260, Camp Verde, AZ

Kokopelli is a Native American fertility deity that is often portrayed as a humpbacked flute player with feathers protruding from its head. The World’s Largest Kokopelli can be found in Camp Verde. The 32-foot-tall statue originally sat in front of Krazy Kokopelli Trading Post, which closed down many years ago and is now the location of a Starbucks.

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408 N. Sacaton St., Casa Grande, AZ

Casa Grande Neon Sign Park is dedicated to the warm glow of neon. Featuring 14 signs that have been salvaged and restored you can walk among this real neon signs from the 40s and 50s that once again light up the Arizona sky. Featuring signs from Arizona Edison, Dairy Queen, Hotel Sacaton, and Ralph’s Cafe, this is a must-see stop on an Arizona road trip.

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AZ-66, Peach Springs, AZ

The Grand Canyon Caverns are the largest dry caverns in the United States. They’re located 200 to 300 feet below the surface and you can visit the site for tours, to shop at the gift shop, to eat at the underground cave restaurant, or even to stay at their hotel. While stopping be sure to check out the giant T-Rex and Brontosaurus outside!

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3386 Rte 66, Joseph City, AZ

The Jack Rabbit Trading Post is a popular Route 66 roadside attraction in Arizona. Opened in 1949 it once was most known for its series of signs that flaked the road on the way there, beckoning tourists to take a detour. Stop in the gift shop, post in front of the iconic sign that depicts a silhouette of a jackrabbit next to the words “HERE IT IS,” or take an Instagram selfie mounted on a giant fiberglass rabbit!

Want to see more of the strangest roadside attractions in America? From Alabama to Wyoming, check out our list of the best roadside attractions in each state .

Pin this list of the 20 best Arizona roadside attractions:

Photos by Johnathan Ciarrocca on Unsplash , Falkenpost from Pixabay .

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Valerie Bromann is a a website manager, content creator, and writer from Chicago, Illinois (currently living in Dallas, Texas). As an avid road tripper who has visited hundreds of roadside attractions, Val always pull over for a world’s largest thing. Founder of Silly America and author of The Road Trip Journal & Activity Book , she visits, photographs, and writes about all the weird tourist destinations she visits and offers road trip planning advice and inspiration based on her own travels so you can hit the road for yourself.

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The road trip you’ve been dreaming of starts here! Journal about your stops and get to know your fellow passengers with activities and exercises designed to pass the time and bring you closer together. Instead of “Are we there yet?” you’ll find yourself asking, “We’re there already?”. Complete with prompts you can turn to while driving between locations, this journal will one day be a memento of your life-changing trip.

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The Most Unusual, Fun Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona

Step away from the normal things to do and see in Phoenix, Arizona , and take a look at some of this city’s more unusual attractions. Tour a handmade castle, experience magical luminaries, see bats leave their cave at sunset, and explore a futuristic community. This desert city will surprise you with its unique, and often weird, finds.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

See the bats swarm at dusk

From May to October, 10,000-20,000 Mexican free-tailed bats stop for a while in Phoenix during their migration south to Mexico. While in Phoenix, they give birth to their young. One of their favorite haunts is known as the Bat Cave, which is actually a large storm tunnel on East Colter Street. At dusk, the bats take off to hunt for bugs and swarm out of the “cave”. Check out the website to get exact directions to the storm tunnel along the Arizona Canal, near 40th and Camelback Roads.

Phoenix may be in the desert, but there are still places where you can see otherworldly colorful butterflies and birds from the tropical rainforest. Sit back to watch a 3D movie about Monarch butterfly migration, and experience live butterflies in a large conservatory. You’ll also see rainforest reptiles, fish and colorful birds – and even a live bee exhibit. Butterfly Wonderland is part of the Arizona Boardwalk entertainment park in Scottsdale.

Tour a handmade stone castle

In the 1930s, Boyce Gully found out he had a serious illness. Rather than sink into a deep depression, he decided to spend his last years constructing a castle in the desert for his beloved little girl, Mary Lou. Boyce died in 1945, but his legacy lives on in southern Phoenix. You can tour the unusual Arizona stone castle with eighteen rooms, thirteen fireplaces and fanciful parapets. His daughter did move into the castle as an adult and lived there until her death in 2010. The fascinating castle is open for tours from October to May.

Check out a castle built in 1928 and cactus gardens

Built in 1928, this birthday cake-shaped building located prominently on a hill is now cared for by the Tovrea Carraro Society, which is named after two of the families who lived there. You can take a guided tour of the building that was once a hotel, designated as the centerpiece of a desert development that never happened. Eventually, the building was purchased by the Tovrea family who lived there until 1969. The castle and the 44-acre (17.8ha) cactus gardens were purchased from the Tovrea Family Estate by the City of Phoenix in 1993, and it is now considered a Phoenix Point of Pride. Tickets for the popular tours are available via a lottery system.

Explore the gardens at night during the magical luminaria season

As the desert cools down just before the holidays, the Desert Botanical Garden decorates the pathways and buildings with magical luminarias, a southwest tradition, that glow and flicker as guests wander, enjoy festive cocktails and listen to musicians. Las Noches de las Luminarias is usually scheduled after Thanksgiving and runs until the end of December. Tickets are sold in advance for this popular holiday event. Be sure to stop to listen to the performance of the handbell choir, which will put you in a festive mood.

Tour a futuristic architectural wonder

North of Phoenix lies a fascinating example of “arcology”. Built under the direction of Italian architect, Paolo Soleri, Arcosanti is considered the world’s first arcology prototype (ecology is integrated into the design) and was conceptualized 50 years ago. It’s fascinating to take one of the daily tours or to spend a little time there to study the concepts being promoted by the Cosanti Foundation. Arcosanti is open to the public seven days a week from 9am until 5pm. There are also a visitor center and shop. Tours are given daily. Arcosanti is located 70 miles (113km) north of Phoenix.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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RoadsideAmerica.com Your Online Guide to Offbeat Tourist Attractions

Attraction:

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Find Arizona travel tips, stories, maps, videos and news for unusual tourist attractions and sights.

Top Rated Attractions

Dragoon, Arizona

America's most purposefully mysterious tourist attraction beckons the freeway-fatigued in empty southeastern Arizona. What is it? We won't tell.

Wigwam Village Motel No. 6

Holbrook, Arizona

It's like traveling back to 1950 when you snooze in concrete teepee motel comfort at this Route 66 landmark.

Goldfield Ghost Town

Apache Junction, Arizona

Gunfights and raucous old west fun are the norm at a replica 1890s ghost town, based on the mining boom version of Goldfield.

Casa Grande Ruins

Coolidge, Arizona

WPA giant metal umbrella protects a four-story, crumbling 800-year-old Indian building. The mud structure's original purpose remains a mystery.

Art Car World

Douglas, Arizona

Famous and infamous vehicles preserved by Art Car guru Harrod Blank -- Camera Van, Land Yacht, MondrianMobile...

Lumberjack Muffler Man - Outside: World's First?

Flagstaff, Arizona

Stands on the grounds outside the Skydome arena, and was briefly seen in the 1960s film "Easy Rider."

Titan Missile Museum

Green Valley, Arizona

An important Atomic Tour sight -- a fully restored missile base, relic of the Cold War.

Stewart's Petrified Wood

Home-built human-chomping dinosaurs out front lure passing motorists -- and there's petrified wood for sale.

Rainbow Rock Shop Dinosaurs

A packed gathering of brightly painted, homemade prehistoric creatures just off of Route 66. Highest dino density per square foot.

London Bridge

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

The real 950-ft. long bridge moved at great expense from England. Piranha 3D was filmed here in 2009.

Neon Diving Lady: Starlite Motel

Mesa, Arizona

70 ft. tall sign built in 1960: a blonde in swimsuit takes an endless 3-part plunge in neon. Felled by a wind storm in 2010; in 2013 fans chipped in to save the lady.

Living Ghost Town: Burros and Gunfights

Oatman, Arizona

Chaotic Old West street of wandering burros and free gunfights.

Biosphere 2

Oracle, Arizona

Tour the hi-tech sealed facility that was supposed to prepare its inhabitants for post-atomic-war survival, or possibly life on Mars.

Grand Canyon Caverns

Peach Springs, Arizona

Outdoor dinosaurs lure travelers along desolate Route 66 to a cave with its own elevator and Civil Defense leftovers.

Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch

Picacho, Arizona

Just the thought of an Ostrich Ranch is weird, but the Cogburns have made the real thing weirder. Be ready to get kissed by a goat, but don't try to kiss an ostrich.

Alcor Cryonics Tour

Scottsdale, Arizona

See the labs and tanks where people and pets are frozen in the hope they will be brought back to life in the future. The original "cryonaut," frozen in 1967, is still here.

Bird Cage Theater Museum

Tombstone, Arizona

Perfectly preserved whoring and party hub of 19th century Tombstone. 140 visible bullet holes in its walls. Home to ghosts and a diminutive Merman.

O.K. Corral

While the human performers are home asleep, animated mannequins provide a "living dead" reenactment of the famous gun battle.

Gunfights, prostitutes, more gunfights, and the Wild West's most iconic graveyard. And a Merman.

Pima Air & Space Museum

Tucson, Arizona

Hundreds of aircraft, spacecraft, and related exhibits. Wander the desert looking at and touching old bombers, fighters, and passenger jets.

Bedrock City and Raptor Ranch

Williams, Arizona

Arizona vacation home of The Modern Stone Age Family. Opened in 1972. New owners added birds-of-prey attraction in 2019, but kept Bedrock as well.

Meteor Crater

Winslow, Arizona

Aren't you glad you weren't standing on this spot 50,000 years ago?

Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel

Before moving here, wooden church appeared in an Elvis film and survived 1969 and 2004 fires at Apacheland Movie Ranch.

Last Supper Museum

Collection of da Vinci's biblical dinner painting -- in slippers, cigarette butts, toy soldiers, PEZ dispensers, and Tupperware.

Lumberjack Muffler Man

Before moving outdoors, a Muffler Man terrified visiting basketball teams behind Northern Arizona University Lumberjack's backboard.

Trunkations

Roadside America's blog, offering news, rants and ruminations on the state of Arizona

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Offbeat Landmarks and Oddities

Choice field reports and tips. Or check out: Complete list of Arizona attractions .

• Amado : Building Shaped like a Longhorn Skull
• Apache Junction : Goldfield Ghost Town
• Apache Junction : Superstition Mountain Museum
• Apache Junction : Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel
• Benson : Kartchner Caverns [ tips ]
• Bisbee : Shady Dell RV Park and Dot's Diner [ tips ]
• Bisbee : Queen Mine Tour [ tips ]
• Buckeye : Hobo Joe Statue [ tips ]
• Camp Verde : Montezuma Castle Indian Ruins [ tips ]
• Casa Grande : Neon Sign Park [ tips ]
• Cool Spring : 1920s Route 66 Gas Station
• Coolidge : Casa Grande Ruins
• Douglas : Art Car World
• Douglas : Last Supper Museum
• Dragoon : The Thing
• Flagstaff : Lumberjack Muffler Man
• Flagstaff : Lowell Observatory
• Flagstaff : Lumberjack Muffler Man - Outside: World's First?
• Florence : Murders, Executions, Cactus Living Room [ tips ]
• Florence : Pyramid Tomb of the Father of Arizona
• Goodyear : Big Baby [ tips ]
• Grand Canyon Village : Grand Canyon
• Grand Canyon Village : Desert View Watchtower [ tips ]
• Grand Canyon West : Grand Canyon Skywalk [ tips ]
• Green Valley : Titan Missile Museum
• Hackberry : Hackberry General Store
• Heber-Overgaard : Travis Walton's Phone Booth [ tips ]
• Hereford : 75-Foot-Tall Celtic Cross and 31-Foot-Tall Virgin Mary [ tips ]
• Holbrook : Wigwam Village Motel No. 6
• Holbrook : Stewart's Petrified Wood
• Holbrook : Wild Bill - 2.9 Million Year Old Alligator
• Holbrook : Two Homemade Dinosaurs
• Holbrook : Rainbow Rock Shop Dinosaurs
• Joseph City : Jackrabbit Trading Post
• Kayenta : Monument Valley [ tips ]
• Kingman : Historic Route 66 Museum
• Lake Havasu City : London Bridge
• Mammoth : Miners Memorial with Skeleton Miners [ tips ]
• Maricopa : Dwarf Car Museum
• Mayer : Arcosanti: An Urban Laboratory
• Mesa : Neon Diving Lady: Starlite Motel
• Oatman : Living Ghost Town: Burros and Gunfights
• Oracle : Biosphere 2
• Page : Horseshoe Bend - Super Scenic [ tips ]
• Peach Springs : Grand Canyon Caverns
• Phoenix : Sunnyslope Rock Garden
• Phoenix : Mystery Castle [ tips ]
• Phoenix : USS Arizona Anchor, Mast, Gun Barrel
• Phoenix : Muffler Man - Bunyan
• Phoenix : Release the Fear - Melted Weapons Sculpture
• Phoenix : Governor Hunt's Pyramid Tomb
• Phoenix : Don Parks - Yard of Statues and Stuff
• Phoenix : Bat Cave: Watch Bats Swarm [ tips ]
• Picacho : Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch
• Pomerene : Gammons Gulch - Movie Set and Museum [ tips ]
• Prescott : Muffler Man: Cowboy Big John
• Quartzsite : Hi Jolly's Tomb
• Quartzsite : Joanne's Gum Gallery Museum [ tips ]
• Safford : Space Shuttle Simulator, Large Camera Obscura [ tips ]
• Sahuarita : Open Pit Copper Mine Tour [ tips ]
• Scottsdale : Giddy-Up Daddy: Bil Keane Horsy Ride Statue
• Scottsdale : Phallic Rock [ tips ]
• Scottsdale : Alcor Cryonics Tour
• Seligman : Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In
• Seligman : Roadkill Cafe [ tips ]
• Sierra Vista : First McDonald's Drive-Thru [ tips ]
• Springerville : Field of Auto Part Sculptures [ tips ]
• Sun City : World's First Retirement Community Museum
• Tombstone : Bird Cage Theater Museum
• Tombstone : O.K. Corral
• Tombstone : Good Enough Mine
• Tombstone : Tombstone, Arizona
• Tombstone : Boot Hill
• Tombstone : Historama
• Tucson : Old Tucson: Wild West Town Movie Set
• Tucson : Glenn Stone - Muffler Man [ tips ]
• Tucson : Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse: Trail Dust Town [ tips ]
• Tucson : Garden of Gethsemane
• Tucson : Valley of the Moon [ tips ]
• Tucson : Big Ed - Muffler Man [ tips ]
• Tucson : 25-Ton Easter Island Head
• Tucson : Pima Air & Space Museum
• Tucson : Avatar 9/11 Memorial [ tips ]
• Tucson : Wishing Shrine of El Tiradito [ tips ]
• Tucson : The Goop: Mini-Golf Alien Survivor [ tips ]
• Tucson : Gum Chewed by John Dillinger [ tips ]
• Tucson : 14-Foot-Tall Cement Bird Totem [ tips ]
• Vail : Colossal Cave [ tips ]
• Walapai : Giganticus Headicus
• Williams : Bedrock City and Raptor Ranch
• Window Rock : Navajo Code Talkers Statue [ tips ]
• Winslow : Standin' on the Corner Park
• Winslow : Meteor Crater
• Yucca : Golf Ball House: Area 66 [ tips ]
• Yuma : Atomic Cannon
• Yuma : Big Wes: Muffler Man Mutant
• Yuma : Territorial Prison
• Yuma : Bridge To Nowhere
• Yuma : Castle Dome Ghost Town and Museum [ tips ]

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Arizona Latest Tips and Stories

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• Gangster Museum of America , Hot Springs, Arkansas

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Weirdest Things to See in Arizona

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Posted by : Marissa Storrs Category : Other

Arizona is its own unique corner of the Southwest , and many of its residents are proud to call themselves weird. Tucson is one of a few cities to adopt the “Keep Weird” mantra, and the entire state offers plenty of strange and distinctive sites that you won’t see anywhere else in the world. Though Arizona is often recognized for its stunning geological features—from the Grand Canyon to the red rocks of Sedona—it offers plenty of charm throughout the manmade attractions in the state. Below, you can get a preview of some of the most memorable roadside attractions and tourist destinations for those seeking a taste of the local culture.

For hundreds of miles in either direction from Exit 322 on Interstate 10, drivers will be greeted by bright yellow billboards adorned with the words “The Thing? What Is It?” Of course, we can’t tell you exactly what it is; you’ll have to pay the one dollar admission to enter the mysterious exhibit, where you will be treated to a distinguished collection of art, antiques, and one-of-a-kind artifacts before laying eyes on The Thing? itself. Don’t be fooled by the unassuming location of The Thing?, which is housed in a series of corrugated steel sheds behind a gas station. Your life will forever be changed once you’ve finally seen it, but rest assured, you can remember your visit to this world-famous roadside attraction with a signature bumper sticker, a common feature on Arizona vehicles.

Meteor Crater

The daunting size and age of the Meteor Crater is enough to make anyone feel like a speck of dust on a tiny marble floating through space. This well-preserved meteorite impact crater near Flagstaff reflects Arizona’s love affair with the skies—which often offer some of the clearest views of the stars. It measures one mile across and is more than 550 feet deep, and it is the lasting memory of an asteroid that struck the Earth over 50,000 years ago. When you stop to see it, you can explore multiple observation points and see the amazing geological features that have developed from the impact.

Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

Sometimes, you just want to take relish in the little things, and that is exactly what you can do at the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures . This Tucson museum showcases more than just basic dollhouses. It features impressive displays of miniature displays representing historical events, famous landmarks, and well-known works of fiction. Though each exhibit is incredibly tiny, you could spend hours trying to catch every detail as you explore the museum halls.

The Shady Dell

The town of Bisbee already has a reputation for weirdness. This small, artsy community located southeast of Tucson delights visitors with a unique selection of crafts, art galleries, vegan eateries, and historical sites. It’s also one of the most amazing places to stay the night, because there are so many lodging choices. Not to be missed is The Shady Dell , which will allow you to travel back in time staying in a trailer court where each guest room is a restored and fully decorated vintage trailer. From the Tiki-themed Chris Craft Yacht to the majestic 1955 Airstream, guests have their choice of beautiful accommodations all with their own outdoor patios.

Jack Rabbit Trading Post

Beckoning travelers from far and wide to stop in for rest and refreshments, a large sign reading “HERE IT IS” stands tall over the Jack Rabbit Trading Post , which has been in operation since the heyday of Route 66. This curio and gift shop is a great place to stop for souvenirs and roadside refreshments, but most visitors will not be finished with their visit until they’ve mounted the large fiberglass jack rabbit for a photo.

Chloride Ghost Town

In the historic section of Chloride, you might be fooled into thinking that you are standing in a typical abandoned mining town, which harkens back to the adventuring lifestyle of the Southwest. Just a short drive from the epicenter of town, however, you can find something much more bizarre. The junk art of Chloride provides an odd and interactive art display featuring a gas tank flamingo cage and a large metallic spider. You can also gaze upon some impressive outdoor murals that were painted in 1966. Though slightly weathered, the Murals of Chloride cover 2,000 square feet of cliffside.

At Pennington Creative , we are proud to be a part of the weird yet lovable state of Arizona. Our Tucson office has a weird history of its own, as it used to be the residence of undertakers who once ran a funeral home downstairs. From our odd office, we produce tons of great content to boost the web presence of local businesses, and we are happy to discuss your content needs too. Visit our website to see more about what we do.

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28 top things to do in arizona in 2024.

Venture to the Grand Canyon State for natural beauty and western experiences.

Top Things to Do in Arizona

Courtesy of Desert Botanical Garden

Tucked into the southwest corner of the United States, Arizona offers something for every type of traveler. Visit highlights like the Grand Canyon, the Wild West town of Tombstone or the red rocks of Sedona. You can then head to cities like Phoenix or Tucson for professional sports, museums, observatories and science centers. Read on to discover all the state's iconic sights, stunning landscapes and gorgeous natural formations to add to your Arizona bucket list.

Antelope Canyon

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Prepare to be wowed by Antelope Canyon, a jaw-dropping slot canyon in northern Arizona. Swirling, orange sandstone and ethereal light beams – which typically appear in the summer months – make for an otherworldly destination. Travelers must sign up for a guided tour to access this area, which is part of Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park.

If you'd like to stay in the area overnight, you'll find accommodation options like the Best Western Plus at Lake Powell and the Comfort Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell in the nearby town of Page, Arizona. Past visitors say Antelope Canyon is a must-see and appreciate that tour guides can often provide expert advice on how to take the best photos while there.

Saguaro National Park

If you'd like to check a national park off your bucket list, Saguaro National Park is located less than 15 miles northwest of Tucson. The park features a giant forest of saguaro cacti, some of which stand up to 50 feet tall and date back more than 200 years. But the park, located in the Sonoran Desert, boasts more than plant life: Look out for animals like roadrunners and Gila monsters during your visit.

Ranger-led tours are available at the park. You can stay overnight in Tucson at upscale properties like the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort or the Miraval Arizona . Or, for a more rugged experience, go camping in the Saguaro Wilderness Area.

Step into the Wild West in Tombstone

About 75 miles southeast of Tucson, travelers will find the infamous Wild West town of Tombstone. A National Historic Landmark, the district is considered one of the most well-preserved frontier towns from the 1870s and '80s. Tombstone was the site of the legendary gunfight at the O.K. Corral in 1881, known by many as the most famous shootout of the Wild West era. The town was also portrayed in the 1993 movie "Tombstone," starring Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer.

Today, travelers can visit Old Tombstone Western Theme Park to explore historic saloons and shops, take a visitor-praised trolley tour, and watch a reenactment of a shootout.

Drive down Route 66

Get a taste of nostalgia as you travel down iconic Route 66. The longest, best-preserved stretch of this highway snakes through Arizona, from the town of Topock on the west side of the state to Lupton in the east. It runs through the cities of Winslow and Flagstaff , as well as Petrified Forest National Park. Travelers can stop for staged gunfights at former gold-mining camp Oatman, lunch at one of many diners, and a stay at a historic hotel like the Weatherford Hotel in Flagstaff.

For a kitschy overnight stay, book lodging at the kid-friendly Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, which is made up of conical tents fitted with original furnishings and modern amenities. Visitors recommend checking out the many vintage vehicles parked outside.

Taliesin West: Scottsdale

Courtesy of Experience Scottsdale

Architecture lovers won't want to miss this Frank Lloyd Wright gem in Scottsdale. This National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site served as Wright's handcrafted winter home and desert laboratory. He once described it as "a look over the rim of the world." Taliesin West offers various tours and programs year round; past visitors highly recommend the guided tour in particular. Advance online ticket reservations are strongly encouraged. Be sure to spend some time enjoying the grounds outdoors and stop into the on-site store, which sells Wright-inspired art, books and home decor.

Traveler tip: Keep an eye out for the 12 intricate Chinese theatrical vignettes located throughout the property. They were acquired in San Francisco in the 1950s. Not only are they fascinating art, but they also signal a shift in the architecture and a transition from one space to another.

Address: 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85259

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Located on the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is known for its 1,000-foot-tall sandstone monoliths. You'll also find abundant mesas and buttes, which are both a type of stand-alone mountain with a flat top. As one of the world's most beautiful landscapes , Monument Valley is a popular place for photography and has been featured in multiple Western films.

View some of the formations from the park's visitor center, take the scenic 17-mile loop drive or book a guided tour to travel into the valley itself, such as an Indigenous-led excursion with Three Sisters Navajo Guided Tours . Past visitors describe the scenery in Monument Valley as spectacular. Nearby lodging includes the Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa and the Desert Rose Resort & Cabins.

Meet the Flintstones at Bedrock City

Fans of "The Flintstones" should pay a visit to the one-of-a-kind Bedrock City, a re-creation of the fictional town where Fred Flintstone and his family lived in the classic cartoon. Located at Raptor Ranch in Williams (about 30 miles south of the Grand Canyon), Bedrock City features sights like the Flintstones' house, the post office and statues of the characters. Admission is free if you're staying at the Raptor Ranch campground, while a fee applies for those just visiting for the day. Reviewers say this hidden gem is great for young kids and takes less than an hour to see.

Address: 101 U.S. Route 180, Williams, AZ 86001

Lowell Observatory: Flagstaff

Outer space enthusiasts should consider a stop at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. Founded in 1894, the observatory was the site of major discoveries like Pluto, the rings of Uranus and the expanding nature of the universe. Travelers here can gaze through a telescope, take a constellation tour and enjoy science demonstrations. Visitors love seeing the telescope used to find Pluto and recommend taking a guided tour at the observatory.

Address: 1400 W. Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Mission San Xavier del Bac: Tucson

On a getaway to Tucson , pay a visit to Mission San Xavier del Bac , a former Catholic mission constructed in the late 1700s. The Baroque-style building is Arizona's oldest intact European structure. Today, it remains a Catholic church with original sculptures and murals, as well as imagery of shells – a symbol of pilgrimage – throughout. Visitors say Mission San Xavier del Bac is worth a visit for both its rich history and exquisite architecture.

Address: 1950 W. San Xavier Road, Tucson, AZ 85746

Ride the gondola at Arizona Snowbowl

Courtesy of Arizona Snowbowl

For a bird's-eye view of some of Arizona's most famous sights, including the Grand Canyon and the red rocks of Sedona, hop on the scenic gondola at the Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff. The ride up and down the mountain is about 15 minutes each way and travels 11,500 feet up. After taking your gondola ride back down, pop in to the Agassiz Lodge Restaurant for lunch. Leaf peepers love heading to this spot to take in the golden leaves of the aspen trees during fall. For an extra special visit, take a sunset ride.

Address: 9300 N. Snow Bowl Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

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Soar over the Grand Canyon

Any way you choose to see the Grand Canyon will be amazing, but a unique option is to take in the natural wonder from above in a helicopter . Companies like Maverick Helicopters offer a variety of tours that range in length. The capacity is six or seven passengers on board, and Maverick's tours depart from areas such as the South Rim and even Las Vegas . Travelers describe the outing as memorable and well worth the price.

Walnut Canyon National Monument

While in Flagstaff, add Walnut Canyon National Monument to your itinerary. This Arizona canyon is home to cliff dwellings dating back more than 700 years, as well as plentiful hiking trails and wildlife like coyotes, jack rabbits, mule deer and 120-plus bird species. Past hikers advise taking the Walnut Canyon Rim Trail if you want to avoid lots of stairs, while the Island Trail provides visitors with great views of the cliff dwellings. While there are no campsites inside the park, nearby options include the Bonito and Canyon Vista campgrounds.

Heard Museum: Phoenix

Courtesy of Heard Museum

Get an up-close and in-depth look at Indigenous American art at the Heard Museum in Phoenix. Founded in 1929, the museum features several exhibition galleries, a sculpture garden and a cafe. Be sure to browse the museum shop, where you can find original pottery, jewelry, katsina dolls and weavings by Native American artists.

Visitors describe the Heard as a must-do in Phoenix and recommend spending about two hours there. Affordable accommodations like the Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix Convention Center and the Hampton Inn Phoenix-Midtown-Downtown Area sit nearby.

Traveler tip: The Heard Museum Shop carries stunning authentic crafts made by Indigenous artists, whom your purchase will support. You can also learn what plants and herbs are used for Navajo herbal remedies – and even take some home.

Address: 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85004

Catch an Arizona Cardinals football game

Courtesy of Visit Glendale

Head to State Farm Stadium in Glendale to cheer on the Grand Canyon State's NFL team: the Cardinals. The stadium is known for its innovative architectural design, including modern exterior metal panels and North America's first retractable natural grass playing field. It also hosts the Fiesta Bowl each year. If you're visiting during the offseason, you may even be able to book a behind-the-scenes tour.

Several hotels are located next to the stadium, including the Aloft Glendale at Westgate, the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa and the Tru by Hilton Phoenix Glendale Westgate.

Address: 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, AZ 85305

Arizona Science Center: Phoenix

Courtesy of Arizona Science Center

For some hands-on learning, visit Arizona Science Center in downtown Phoenix. The center offers permanent exhibits that introduce kids to saving money, detail the science of flight, explore natural disasters and more. The Science Center also has a planetarium and a theater with a five-story screen. Reviewers say the center is very interactive; some advise getting your parking ticket validated for a discounted parking fee.

Arizona Science Center is just a few blocks from the Children's Museum of Phoenix and Chase Field, as well as hotels such as The Westin Phoenix Downtown and Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix .

Address: 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85004

Wander among the red rocks of Sedona

Nature lovers should make time to visit the stunning red rocks of Sedona, located about 120 miles north of Phoenix. Sedona offers hiking trails through its magnificent scenery and attractions like Red Rock State Park, Red Rock Scenic Byway and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Other popular activities include stargazing , Jeep tours , mountain biking, rafting and rock climbing. Be sure to check out Sedona's top restaurants while you're in town.

Book a vacation rental through a company like Vrbo, where you can wash your dirty hiking gear and prepare a picnic lunch for your next outdoor adventure. If you'd rather bed down in a bit more luxury, reserve a stay at Enchantment Resort or Amara Resort and Spa .

Traveler tip: Not only is Sedona home to the most spectacular desert landscape, but it is also a Monarch Waystation that welcomes a variety of butterflies. Butterflies are most prevalent when migrating in the fall from Canada to Southern California.

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument

Immerse yourself in the wilderness at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, which unfurls across 280,000 acres in northern Arizona. One of its most popular areas, The Wave, features a swirling display of colored sandstone that makes for magnificent photos. Coyotes Buttes North, where you'll find The Wave, is one of the areas that requires visitors to enter a lottery to secure a permit. You will also need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access most of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Check park advisories before planning your trip.

There aren't any cities within the immediate vicinity of Vermillion Cliffs, but you can stay about 75 miles northwest in the town of Kanab, Utah. Accommodation options include the Hampton Inn Kanab or the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kanab.

Grand Canyon National Park North Rim

While the South Rim is the more popular side of the Grand Canyon, the North Rim is worth a visit as well. In fact, only 10% of all visitors go to the North Rim, making it a great place to avoid the crowds. Just know that this side of the canyon closes for the winter season. The North Rim Visitor Center is around 80 miles from Vermillion Cliffs National Monument.

At the North Rim, stop at the Grand Canyon Lodge for spectacular canyon views at Bright Angel Point, then enjoy a scenic drive to various lookouts, where you can see the Angels Window natural arch and other formations. Travelers can stay overnight at the seasonal Grand Canyon Lodge from May to October. Or, book a vacation rental or hotel room a bit further away in Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona.

Lake Havasu State Park

Take time to explore one of the top lakes in Arizona . Situated along the California border, Lake Havasu State Park is home to a narrow lake surrounded by Arizona desert land. The park offers popular activities like swimming, boating and fishing, and it features campsites, beaches and hiking trails.

There are other nearby state parks to explore too, including Cattail Cove State Park and Buckskin Mountain State Park. Save time to check out the historic London Bridge and the Lake Havasu Museum of History in Lake Havasu City.

Go stargazing

Arizona is home to vast dark sky regions found in areas like Sedona, Cottonwood, Fountain Hills, the Village of Oak Creek and Thunder Mountain Pootsee Nightsky. Flagstaff was designated as the world's first International Dark Sky Place by the International Dark-Sky Association.

Head to one of many observatories for minimal light pollution and the best view of the stars above. Popular options include the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory, which sits south of Tucson; Mount Graham International Observatory in the southeastern Pinaleño Mountains; and Kitt Peak National Observatory, located southwest of Tucson. Some resorts – such as L'Auberge de Sedona , Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale and Castle Hot Springs – also offer special nighttime viewings with their own telescopes and astronomy programming.

Traveler tip: Guests staying at Castle Hot Springs, just outside of Phoenix, will be amazed at how bright the stars are. The high-tech telescopes, included with the Sky View Cabins, are a wonderful amenity to explore the night sky.

Explore a ghost town

Arizona is full of ghost towns: areas that emerged during mining booms, only to later be abandoned when the mining opportunities dried up. In Gleeson, situated about 15 miles east of Tombstone, you'll find the remains of the old jail and general store from its heyday as a turquoise mining town. In Ruby, you can take a self-guided tour (for a fee) of this vacant town that was once home to 1,200 residents.

In addition to exploring old buildings and structures in these old towns, there are often off-road activities and hiking trails nearby as well, and some even have haunted hotels . You can easily spend several hours simply wandering in and out of the different buildings and looking at the remnants scattered about (just exercise caution as the buildings are old). Most are free to enter, though a few are on private land and do charge entrance fees. If you want a guided tour, head to Castle Dome City, Vulture City or Goldfield Ghost Town, which have guided options.

Horseshoe Bend

Located just 5 miles outside of Page, Horseshoe Bend is a picturesque sandstone escarpment with the Colorado River looping around it. It is situated in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and draws around 2 million visitors annually. There are various ways to view and explore this iconic landscape, from hiking to kayaking to flying over it. A half-mile ADA-accessible path from the parking lot leads to an overlook.

While in the area, you can also explore Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge National Monument and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. If you're looking for a place to stay, Lake Powell Resort and Hyatt Place Page / Lake Powell are nearby options.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: Scottsdale

Courtesy of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Kids will love this 30-acre train-themed park in Scottsdale. Hop aboard the Paradise & Pacific Railroad or take a spin on the antique carousel at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. There's also a model railroad building with 10,000 square feet of tiny train exhibits, as well as the Scottsdale Railroad Museum, which includes railroad artifacts such as the historic Peoria Depot, the Roald Amundsen Pullman Car and Magma Arizona Railroad Engine No. 6. Kids can also play at the state-of-the-art railroad-themed playground.

Address: 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85250

The 726-foot concrete Hoover Dam , which sits on the Arizona-Nevada border, stores water that irrigates 2 million acres in California and Arizona, in addition to generating hydroelectric power for 1.3 million people. Guests can take a tour of the impressive power plant or do a self-guided tour of the narrated exhibits. See a 3D model of the dam and take in the views from the observation deck. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site.

Havasu Falls

The beautiful and remote Havasu Falls – one of the most incredible waterfalls in Arizona – sits on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, which is within the Grand Canyon but not part of the national park; permits are required to access the area. It is open February through November and also requires a reservation for at minimum a one-night stay at the campground or Havasupai Lodge.

The hike to get down to the falls from the canyon rim is not for the faint of heart – it is a strenuous and steep 10-mile hike that takes about four hours on average (not to mention the way back is uphill). Keep in mind that it can get hot during the summer months and there is no water or emergency assistance available on the trail. You also won't have Wi-Fi or cell service at the campground. Alcohol is not permitted here.

Desert Botanical Garden: Phoenix

Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is a 140-acre property with more than 50,000 plant displays. Themed outdoor garden paths highlight the flora that manages to flourish in some of the hottest and driest places on Earth. There is also a 3,200-square-foot butterfly pavilion and a resource library with more than 9,000 books related to landscaping and gardening. Picnics are not allowed, but there is a restaurant and a cafe for dining.

Address: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008

Musical Instrument Museum: Phoenix

Courtesy of Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix features rotating special exhibitions as well as various galleries. In the interactive Experience Gallery visitors can actually play instruments, while the Geographic Galleries explore musical traditions from all over the world. There is also the Conservation Lab, where guests can watch through a large window as staff work to preserve instruments and artifacts. The museum hosts concerts, cultural programs, film screenings, and music and wellness classes. Facilities include a cafe, a coffee bar and a museum store.

Address: 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85050

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: Tucson

Watch raptors fly, touch a stingray, see a limestone cave replica or stroll through a hummingbird aviary – these are just a few of the exciting things to do at the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum. The exhibits introduce visitors to animals in various habitats and ecosystems, such as prairie dogs in Desert Grassland and bobcats in Cat Canyon; you'll even get a glimpse into aquatic life in the Warden Aquarium.

With most of the museum located outside, you may encounter natural wildlife in addition to the animals living in exhibits, so dress for the weather and be sure to alert the staff if you see any rattlesnakes or other creatures of concern. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum has a few casual dining options and gift shops.

Address: 2021 N. Kinney Road, Tucson AZ 85743

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Arizona. Living in Southern California, she is located a quick drive or flight from the Grand Canyon State, which she has visited many times. Her favorite things to do in Arizona include vortex hikes in Sedona, stargazing in the dark sky regions and kayaking at Watson Lake near Prescott.

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Attractions (And Oddities) Along Arizona’s Interstate 40

Posted by Kelly Vaughn May 11, 2018 Updated January 05, 2024

Across Arizona, Interstate 40, which runs from Barstow, California, all the way to Wilmington, North Carolina, runs parallel to or overlays that famed Mother Road — Route 66.

And while the high-speed highway makes travel a bit easier, it retains much of its historic charm.

Take, for example, this handful of attractions. You’ll find them along the main drag, as well as just a bit off the beaten path.

Old-School Ads

Although  Burma-Shave ’s original ads along Route 66 didn’t withstand the test of time, heat or history, replicas dot the highway between Kingman and Ash Fork. Among the clever rhymes? “You can drive a mile a minute, but there is no future in it.” Catch them running both east and westbound, but remember: “Thirty days hath September, April, June … and the speed offender.”

Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In

Since Juan Delgadillo opened this quirky, iconic eatery in 1953, it’s become a must-stop for international tourists, as well as hungry hikers returning from the stunning waterfalls of Supai. When you go, expect to relish juicy burgers, piping hot French fries, shakes, sodas and the wild character of the place.

Think: a wildly decorated 1936 Chevrolet, vintage ads, old railroad signs and thousands of business cards. Plus, chances are you’ll be served by one of the Delgadillos — the family still runs the Snow Cap, adding to its inimitable charm.

The Snow Cap is located at 301 AZ-66, in  Seligman . Information: 928-422-3291.

Walnut Canyon National Monument

When writer Willa Cather visited Flagstaff in the spring of 1912 on behalf of  McClure ’s magazine, Walnut Canyon was on her list of destinations. Ultimately, it — well, what she called “Panther Canyon” — became one of the settings for her 1915 novel  Song of the Lark . Today, visitors to the national monument can hike to ancient pueblos via the Island Trail, breathe in the scenery from the Rim Trail, hang out with a ranger and explore more than 1,000 years of human history.

Walnut Canyon is located approximately 7.5 miles east of Flagstaff on I-40. To access the monument, take exit 204.   Information: 928-526-3367 or  www.nps.gov/waca .

Twin Arrows

Built along Route 66 during the trading post-boom of the early-to-mid 20th Century, Twin Arrows was once home to a diner and a series of small shops, just west of a similar establishment at Toonerville. Sadly, though, the installment of Interstate 40 led to Twin Arrows’ decline, and all that remains today is the site’s eponymous 25-foot-tall arrows and a row of dilapidated buildings.

If you go, bear in mind that the property is on State Trust land. So, be mindful of no-trespassing signs and the fragile nature of the buildings — you’ll see right away that they’re now home to some incredible local art in the form of spray-painted sayings, images and more.

Twin Arrows is located at Exit 219, heading east on Interstate 40 from Flagstaff.

Petrified Forest National Park

Back when the dinosaurs roamed, this section of the Arizona desert was actually a tropical swamp, home to phytosaurs and more. And, of course, the park is home to the remnants of countless trees that fell during the Late Triassic Period, some 225 million years ago.

These rock-like, fossilized stumps decorate Petrified Forest in myriad colors and sizes, and in addition to exploring the science and history at the park, visitors may also hike the Wilderness Loop or wander into the backcountry during an overnight backpacking trip. No matter how you explore, chances are good you’ll be blown away by the grandeur and size of this incredible Eastern Arizona landmark.

Petrified Forest National Park is located off Interstate 40 in Northeastern Arizona, approximately 50 miles from the New Mexico state line. Information: 928-524-6228 or  www.nps.gov/pefo .

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Posted by Kelly Vaughn

Kelly Vaughn is a travel writer and editor whose stories have appeared in dozens of local and national publications. Her work, which focuses on experiential and environmental exploration is rooted in a love for nature, wildlife and conservation.

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Monica Spencer

Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at [email protected].

More by this Author

A couple of weeks ago, we highlighted a pretty awesome road trip along Route 66 . Most of the attractions featured showed some of the top must-see spots, so we decided that we needed to list some of the more bizarre things you can find along the old highway. Let’s take a look at how weird these sites can get!

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35 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Arizona

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 22, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Arizona, one of the best vacation spots in the world , is packed with must see places and tourist spots, all with their own unique points of interest, and features.

It can be hard to figure out all the things to do in Arizona this weekend or during your next visit due to the sheer wealth of options – but we have you covered.

Here are the 35 best things to do and places to visit in Arizona.

Table of Contents

1. Canyon de Chelly National Monument

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Need some really cool Arizona vacation ideas?

How about a majestic Native American heritage site?

After all, there are few things more fascinating than that!

Head inside the boundaries of the Navajo Nation and look up Canyon de Chelly National Monument – a location that has seen almost 5,000 years of uninterrupted human occupation by the Anasazi and Navajo people.

These days, it’s all ruins – but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth visiting.

If you take a private tour or a free ranger-led hike you can see the spectacular sight that is all these cliff dwellings high up and carved into the side of the canyon walls.

Most of the ruins are inaccessible to visitors these days, but there are still some places you can go wander through yourself and at least one self-guided hike available.

So if you’re in the area, why not give yourself a chance to check out some incredible history in person?

It’s among the top things to do in Arizona!

Address: Highway 191, Chinle, AZ 86503, United States

2. Walnut Canyon

Looking for fun things to do in Arizona?

Why not dive deep into some pre-Colombian history, and take a moment to appreciate the culture and beauty of a land and its native citizens?

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the state is the historical cliff dwellings that are hewn into the side of canyon walls.

Walnut Canyon specifically was home to the Sinagua people, before it was suddenly abandoned.

Considering that the Sinagua not only thrived in such an environment but even had a trading empire, their vanishment comes as a mystery.

To this day, historians and archeologists haven’t been able to unravel this puzzle.

And since the site is open to visitors, tackling this mystery by yourself is now fair game! (Within reasonable limits, of course.)

So if and you’re interested in around playing as archeological detectives, why not add visiting this incredible location to your list of to-dos?

Address:  3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States

3. Grand Canyon

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The internationally renowned jewel of the Colorado Plateau Province, and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in America , is the Grand Canyon .

Large enough to be seen from space, this location sits among the top 10 best Arizona travel destinations lists for a good reason.

With breathtaking views, incredible biodiversity, and challenging activities for you to do, there is never a dull moment in this Canyon.

Consider white-water rafting along the Colorado River, or marveling at how the Earth’s history on full display on the walls of the canyon.

And if you would rather not walk, there are even mule rides available!

All in all, the Grand Canyon is a must-see destination if you’re an outdoorsy person or someone with an amateur interest in geology.

There’s just something that strikes awe into the human soul about this geological marvel, and it is really worth coming here for an experience you’ll never forget!

This is one of the things to see in Arizona to add to your must do list.

Address:  Arizona, United States

4. Antelope Canyon

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Need a sprinkling of danger to heighten those senses for maximum enjoyment?

Antelope Canyon may just be what you’re looking for.

A location infamous for its frequent flash floods, this particular canyon requires that visitors be led on guided tours for their own safety.

That said, there’s a reason it is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Arizona.

The banded sandstone here has been worn smooth into gorgeous shapes that are reminiscent of the water that rushes through them.

This incredible view alone should put this place on your list of things to see in Arizona!

Named after the pronghorn antelopes that used to be common here, the canyons themselves are divided into two parts – the upper and lower canyon.

While both are equally beautiful, you might want to pick the upper canyon if you are a casual tourist that just wants some fun!

Address: Navajo Tribal Park, Page, AZ 86040, United States

5. Wupatki National Monument

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What is the point of visiting the state if you don’t at least check out the view?

Some of the top things to do in Arizona include siteseeing – an activity that makes complete sense if you drop by the Wupatki National Monument to take a look.

Located in the middle of the state’s scenic desert vistas, the Wupatki National Monument is home to some of the best-preserved pueblo ruins in the country.

Despite excavations beginning as early as the 1800s, studies and further archeological work is still ongoing due to the rarity of finding such a well-preserved pueblo.

Despite having been abandoned for centuries, the pueblos still feel haunting.

Drop around sunset, and it’s as if the houses and buildings are still waiting for the inhabitants that will never come home.

Maybe you can fill in the space for a bit, and explore its centuries’ worth of history.

Address:  25137 N Wupatki Ln, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States

Don’t forget to check out some more fun things to do in Flagstaff !

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Despite what most people think, some of the best things to do in Arizona include staring at the scenery.

The desert landscape here amidst the canyons and valleys is a breathtaking view and carries with it a raw kind of earthy energy that can attract sensitive types.

If you are any kind of spiritual practitioner, you ought to put visiting Sedona on your must-visit list today.

Located in Verde Valley, the desert town is a cultural arts enclave surrounded by incredible rock formations.

While the red bands of iron oxide and manganese are often enough to attract visitors, Sedona is famous for something else.

Within the masses of rock formations lies four vortexes of energy, sites that have made visitors burst into tears just by walking into it.

There’s a reason for all the metaphysical shops in that town, after all!

Don’t worry if you’re not the metaphysical type – Sedona is one of those vacation spots that has something for everyone.

Why not check out Cathedral’s Rock, an elevated summit that presents itself as a challenge?

Here’s a list of some of the most amazing things to do in Sedona !

7. Petrified Forest National Park

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Scenic places usually don’t function as a main draw for a lot of people, but there’s a reason Arizona attractions are all about the view.

Just where else would you find a completely fossilized forest?

It’s a truly one-of-a-kind spot!

The Petrified Forest National Park spans across northeastern Arizona, covering both Navajo and Apache counties in an area of approximately 146 square miles.

Made into a national monument in 1906, the park has some incredible terrain you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world.

Just think about it – where else are you going to find an entire fossilized forest in such incredible condition?

It would be an adventure just to walk among the petrified trees alone.

If the incredible views alone aren’t enough to wow you, however, the history buffs among you might prefer looking at the remnants of prehistoric people’s homes instead.

Address: Petrified Forest, Holbrook, AZ 86028, United States

8. Musical Instrument Museum

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If you’re a culture and history buff, then it only makes sense that your list of top things to do in Arizona include checking out the litany of culturally rich museums the state has to offer.

Alas, you have so many places to go and so little time.

How are you supposed to make the best of your visit in Arizona?

How about a museum dedicated almost entirely to instruments?

A pretty recent institution by museum standards, the Musical Instrument Museum first opened its Arizona doors in early 2010 and differentiates itself by one key feature – its main exhibits is about musical instruments.

Boasting over 15,000 instruments from every single country in the world in its galleries, this is an exhibit that music lovers should not miss.

And the best part?

You’re allowed to play and handle most of them too!

What’s the point of enjoying music if you can’t have hands-on experience, after all?

Address:  4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States

Planning a trip to Phoenix soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Phoenix !

9. Camelback Mountain

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Some of us may be familiar with the story of how the camel got its hump.

Have you ever tried asking how the mountain got its head?

The answer is pretty interesting!

Named after its distinctive shape, Camelback Mountain sits pretty high on the list of tourist places you must visit if you’re a hiker making your way through Arizona.

It historically was home to pre-colonial Native Americans, so budding historians might be interested in checking out this mountain’s historical areas too!

But the real fun here is for the geologists.

The head of the “camel” gets its unique shape from the red sandstone eroding faster than the harder granite sitting on top of it.

There’s just one question – how did the old granite end up on top of the younger, newer sandstone for this particular part of the mountain?

Drop by this scenic location yourself and see if you can solve the mystery!

Address: Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States

10. Lake Powell

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Still need to bulk up your list of places to visit in Arizona?

Why not check out Lake Powell ?

A man-made reservoir situated on the Colorado River, it was created in 1972 when the Glen Canyon was flooded by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam.

Aside from supplying water to multiple different states, these days it serves as one of the best places in the state for all sorts of recreational water activities in an otherwise arid landscape.

If you’re struggling to beat the heat while visiting Arizona in the summer, why not pop this lake for fishing, boating, or water skiing?

Even better, why not grab a boat tour to Rainbow Bridge?

It’s a jaw-dropping rock arch accessible best by boat.

Sure, you can find other similarly beautiful formations elsewhere, but how many of them are suspended above a sparkling expanse of water?

Address: Utah and Arizona, United States

11. Superstition Mountain Museum

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If you’re in Arizona for a weekend trip, why not tick visiting this museum off your Arizona bucket list?

East of Phoenix is a mountain range known as the Superstition Mountains.

Tall and forbidding, the mountains themselves are a sight to behold – and are crammed full of incredible hiking trails.

Perhaps if you’re lucky, you might even finally find the legendary Lost Dutchman’s Goldmine!

But if you’re a movie buff, it’s more likely that you’re interested in the movie sets – and this happens to also be the perfect place to indulge that hobby.

Nestled in the foot of the mountain range is a museum named after the mountains itself – and it’s a locale you may recognize.

The Superstition Mountain Museum has been featured in all sorts of Western kitschy movies and commercials.

Feel free to wander around the Western-style sets, or even have yourself an Elvis wedding!

Address:  4087 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States

12. Montezuma Castle National Monument

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On a road trip and need some fun things to do in Arizona?

Why not do yourself a favor and visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in the state?

History fans and budding archeologists will be particularly excited about this one.

Just 50 miles away from Flagstaff, Arizona is a resilient testament to the resilience of the Sinagua people – Montezuma Castle .

Named after an Aztec ruler by white colonists who had mistaken it for an Aztec ruin, Montezuma Castle is a dwelling carved into the sides of Beaver Creek Canyon.

Five-stories tall and located a good hundred feet above the canyon floor, the dwelling is partitioned into twenty rooms that you can explore in person.

By the way, if you’re bringing along a dog, it’s time to rejoice!

This particular ancient pueblo allows visitors to bring along their dogs – so long as they’re kept on leashes, of course.

Address:  Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ, United States

13. Tombstone

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In need of fun places to visit?

Say no more, and put this locale on your list of Arizona vacation spots.

Harkening back to the Victorian heyday where pioneers were still pushing westward in search of gold and land, Tombstone is a town especially for you.

Unlike all the other attractions listed so far, Tombstone is a town that is explicitly designed to cater to tourists.

Step in here and let yourself be transported back to the days of the Old West, with its period-accurate buildings and staged recreations of famous historical gunfights.

Indulge your love for Western B-movies, and have fun with the activities available here!

For those who are craving for more authentic stuff, there’s still hints of the town’s mining history that can be discovered.

Why not head on down to the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, visit the museum there, and see if that hits the spot?

14. Route 66

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Made famous by Pixar’s Cars, Route 66 is a location that’s sure high on your child’s list of places to see in Arizona.

Back in the days before interstates were routes like this one, which still hold a lot of their old-world charm.

If you’re heading down to the place where this road will take you anyway, then isn’t it great to take a moment to use this route?

The scenery is what American road trips are made off, and you’ll be reminded that it is always the journey that makes it worthwhile, not the final destinations!

You may still be asking where to go to find this route.

From Interstate 40, just take a bypass and drive for another 75 miles.

You’ll find it in no time – just keep driving along and enjoying the stuff to see along the way.

While you’re there, why not stop for lunch at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In?

On trips like these, it’s the memories you make along the way that really makes it worthwhile.

15. Havasupai Falls

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If you’re already set on going sightseeing, why not visit some of the most beautiful places in Arizona – like the Havasupai Falls?

Tucked away deep in the heart of the Grand Canyon on Havasupai reservation is the Havasu Cavern – home to a series of gorgeous aquamarine waterfalls from which the Havasupai people derive their name.

Despite its beauty, this location is still a relatively unknown secret in Arizona!

The most famous of these waterfalls is known as the Havasu Falls – a waterfall with turquoise cascades so intensely colored, it’s hard to believe that the water flowing through it isn’t transparent.

Unfortunately, trying to get there is pretty difficult.

Not only do you require a permit to enter the reservation, it’s a tough journey to make.

Still, if you can make it, it’s one that will be definitely worth your while.

Address: Hualapai Hilltop, Supai, AZ 86435, United States

16. Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room

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If you are an art junkie, then one of the top things to do in Arizona is to see Yayoi Kusama’s work in person for yourself.

The darling of the New York avant-garde art scene in the 1960s, Kusama faded largely into obscurity when she voluntarily moved back home to Japan and stayed in a hospital for the mentally ill in 1973.

Now, at the age of 89, Kusama is once again steadily regaining her well-deserved reputation as an incredible artist.

And now you too can personally experience the fun and joy of her mindbending artwork yourself!

Just head on over to the Phoenix Art Museum in Arizona to see the permanent exhibit installed there.

The title “You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Butterflies” may seem like an odd name to the casual onlooker, but the appropriateness of the name quickly becomes apparent once you are standing there to experience the exhibit in person yourself.

All in all, it is certainly a piece of art you should personally check out at least once in your life while you’re in Arizona!

Address:  1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

17. Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway

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Despite being largely a desert, Arizona doesn’t fall short of pretty places.

In fact, some of the best Arizona attractions can be accessible just by turning out of the nearest freeway exit.

In this particular case, the route itself is the actual tourist attraction!

Boasting one of the most scenic views in the state, Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway is no short journey with its round-trip length of almost 60 miles.

But it is definitely a road well-worth traveling.

Over the course of these 60-odd miles, drivers making their way through this byway will see some incredible views found nowhere else.

Not only does the temperature change as you make your way up and down, you will also be privy to a wide variety of landscapes – from the arid vista of the Mexican desert to the forested slopes of the Canadian mountains.

Just where else are you going to find an experience like that?

Address: Tucson, AZ, United States

Planning a road trip around Arizona? Here are some incredible things to do in Tucson  & things to do in Scottsdale !

18. Meteor Crater

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Still in need of fun places to go to while you’re in Arizona?

Would visiting a crater be cool enough a destination for you?

Yes, you heard us correctly – we did say “crater”!

One of the top things to do in Arizona is to check out the incredible desert vista and marvel at the history it holds – like the Barringer Crater.

Better known as simply the Meteor Crater , this is a massive scar on the Earth caused by a meteor impact over 50,000 years ago.

These days, it is an incredible sight to behold – though a dangerous one.

In 1964, two curious pilots in their Cessna 150 had flown too low over this unique mar in the Earth’s crust.

Luckily, they survived and managed to walk away with their lives.

If you are lucky, you may even spot the wreckage they left behind as a warning to other daredevil pilots.

While flying over the crater is ill-advised, you can still visit the place on foot.

Maybe if you’re lucky, you’ll find some of the unique minerals that are only made when a meteorite crashes into the Earth!

Address:  Interstate 40, Winslow, AZ 86047, United States

19. Horseshoe Bend

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For all of you outdoor enthusiasts and amateur geologists, the Glen Canyon Recreational Area is home to some of the most awesome places in Arizona.

Think about it – just where else will you find sites like the Horseshoe Bend ?

Flowing 1,000 ft above sea level is the Colorado River, carving its way through the rocky plateau as it makes its way Southwest.

Thanks to the geological makeup of this unique desert landscape, the river is forced to flow in all sorts of weird shapes.

At one point, the river makes a perfect U-shaped bend that looks like a horseshoe!

For the best view, head on down to Route 89.

From there, it’s just a quick hike before you’re faced with one of the most stunning views American nature has to offer.

Address:  Page, AZ 86040, United States

20. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

If you were already going to see the most jaw-dropping points of interest Arizona has to offer, then why not make a fun detour to the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument ?

Nature lovers, in particular, take note – this certainly should be on your list of places to visit in Arizona if you want to make your trip truly worthwhile.

Established in 1937, the Monument was intended to preserve some of the unique biodiversity and geology that can only be found in the Sonoran Desert and to share that love with the general public.

Crammed full of rare and incredible plants (including the titular Organ Pipe Cactus), this is a destination you won’t want to miss!

517 square miles isn’t enough for how many things this park is packing, but it manages it all anyway.

As long as you’re an outdoorsy person, there’s something for you here – whether it’s a place to enjoy camping under starlit skies or scenic paths where you can meander through the local plant life, this park has got you covered.

Address:  10 Organ Pipe Dr, Ajo, AZ 85321, United States

21. Kartchner Caverns

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If you don’t already have an Arizona bucket list of some sort, then it’s time to start one just to add this destination to your list.

Discovered in 1974, the incredible sights of Kartchner Caverns were kept a secret from even the landowners themselves in an effort to protect it from any activities that may damage or destroy it.

And it’s easy to see why this decision was made – the cavern is home to some of the longest stalactite formations in the world and is a sight to behold like no other.

After the government of Arizona purchased the land from the family in 1988, the caverns were carefully opened up for public viewing.

Consider making a weekend trip to view these caverns for yourself – it’s well worth your time.

A fun bonus: if you decide to take a tour of the caverns, the guide may point out to you footprints that were left behind by the discoverers when they first explored the caverns!

Address:  2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602, United States

22. Saguaro National Park

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The Giant Saguaro is an undeniable symbol of the American West – but for something so ubiquitous in movies and TV, it’s actually a very rare plant that grows in a few select locations.

One of these locations is in a park at the heart of the Sonoran Desert, a cool 2,400 feet above sea level.

Located in Tucson, Arizona, Saguaro National Park is high on the list of tourist attractions thanks to its namesake plant.

Aside from checking out the cacti, there are plenty of other experiences to be had in the park.

For starters, there’s a myriad of hiking trails for both beginners and experienced hikers alike, and there are biking trails if you want to put your new mountain bike to the test!

Alternatively, maybe you would prefer to go camping instead and stare at the moonlit night sky.

Whatever the case may be, it’s undeniable that there’s plenty of fun things to do in Arizona with a park like this!

23. Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting

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Firefighting is already a dangerous profession as it is – and in highly flammable, arid desert regions, the task becomes even more important.

After seeing how many lives were lost to fires, citizens thought it best to honor these brave people by creating a memorial for them

If you’re still asking about what to do in Arizona, then visiting the Hall of Flame Museum to pay tribute to these brave professionals is a must-do.

These days, the memorial doubles as a museum, with an exhibit dedicated to displaying old firefighting equipment.

Tracing the history of firefighting to 1725, the museum shows just how firefighting has changed over the centuries as technology evolved and training becomes more extensive.

You’ll definitely walk away with a greater appreciation for our heroes after a visit to this place!

Address:  6101 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

24. Arizona Copper Art Museum

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Thanks to its rich deposits of minerals, Arizona has a mining history that can still be seen now!

One of the minerals that was hunted down by pioneers in the state’s heyday was copper.

An incredibly useful mineral, the desire for it gave way to some incredible mining operations – many of which are still in operation today!

While modern copper mines are nothing to sniff at, it’s the historical mines that form some of the coolest places to see in Arizona.

If you’re not keen on running around all over the state to check out the actual locations themselves, then the Arizona Copper Art Museum is the place for you.

Here you can trace the history of copper and its uses throughout 500 years of human history.

From the reminder that Venus’s astrological symbol is also the alchemical symbol for copper, to its uses in artillery in World War I and II, you must visit this museum to enjoy its fun celebration of all things copper.

Address:  849 Main St, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, United States

25. Hoover Dam

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An engineering marvel, visiting the Hoover Dam sits on the list of top things to do in Arizona.

Completed in 1935, it stands as a testament to what the best minds in humanity are capable of when their efforts are focused.

These days, the dam is a hot location for sightseeing, thanks to its incredible scale and size.

It also doubles as a link between Arizona and Nevada, if you plan to drive to either state.

Ideally, however, you would take the time to stop and enjoy the view.

It’s not every day you get to see the largest artificial lake in the nation, after all!

While you’re here, consider taking a tour of the Hoover Dam or its attached Powerplant.

If that’s not quite your speed, then why not walk around the Hoover Dam instead?

It’s hard to beat that low entry price of free!

Address:  Nevada 89005, United States

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If you’re an amateur ghost-hunter, then high on your list of cool things to do in Arizona will definitely be visiting abandoned mining towns like Jerome .

While the town is still largely a ghost town, today it has plenty of attractions and activities catered towards visitors looking to get some thrills.

Built in 1928, this town was originally constructed around some vertigo-inducing cliffside operations.

Many of the ruined buildings still stand on steep hillsides – a haunting reminder of the town’s citizens and history.

Some standout views include The Sliding Jail, which was built unawares on clay slick.

Thanks to its hillside location and gravity, the entire jail has slid about 2,500 feet over the years, and will likely continue moving further and further away from its original point of construction.

It’s a good idea to visit it while you still can before it slides right off the cliff!

27. Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area

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Some of the best Arizona attractions harken back to the state’s history, pulling forward its past for us to enjoy and experience in the present.

And in Yuma , this history is still alive and breathing.

Founded in the 1500s by Spanish explorers, Yuma is not only just as old as Arizona itself but played a crucial role in founding the state.

The modern city of Yuma is still spectacular, but budding visitors will want to head down to Yuma Crossing – a patchwork of wetlands and parks that connects the modern to the old, historic downtown.

That isn’t to say the park itself has no places of interest in and of itself.

When you’re done with revisiting history, why not drop by for some scenic riverside trails?

It will surely be worth your time!

Address:  180 W 1st St, Yuma, AZ 85364, United States

28. Chiricahua National Monument

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Ever asked what to do in search of fun while on a trip to Arizona?

Perhaps this particular attraction may grab your fancy!

Called the “Land of Standing-Up Rocks” by the native Apache people, Chiricahua National Monument is 12,000 acres of wonder.

Initially formed by a volcano eruption, this area spent the next 27 million years being shaped and chiseled out by the elements.

After so many years, nature’s magnum opus is complete. The Monument is crammed full of all sorts of ancient rock spires and caves.

Go hiking alongside ancient lava flows, or stare at the strange rock garden that nature had so proudly carved out of stone hundreds of feet high.

If this alone isn’t enough to land visiting this locale on your list of top things to do in Arizona, then the 17 miles of hiking trail would be of greater interest to you.

You can also opt for a scenic 8-mile tour if you would rather stay in the comfort of your car!

Address:  E Bonita Canyon Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, United States

29. London Bridge

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Some of the top things to do in Arizona is to go and explore the attractions it offers.

And as it turns out, you can see some of London right here in the state!

No, there’s no teleport to London just yet.

Instead, what you have is the titular bridge of the famous nursery rhyme “London Bridge Is Falling Down” being one of the biggest roadside attractions in Arizona.

Built in the 1830s, London Bridge used to span the River Thames until it began sinking.

Eventually, the bridge was purchased by Lake Havasu City founder Robert P. McCullough and deconstructed in 1967, where it was brought over to the city itself and reconstructed in 1971.

These days, you can get a walking tour of a piece of London’s history – right here in the United States!

Address:  1340 McCulloch Blvd, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403, United States

30. Apache Death Cave

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For those of us who respect local legends and myths, some points of interest are wisely avoided.

For others who are thrill-seekers in search of exploring and examining such local stories, the Apache Death Cave may be on your list of places to visit in Arizona.

It was common for the Native American nations to loot and pillage each other’s settlements in search of valuables and goods.

The attack on a Navajo encampment in 1878 was no different.

Apache raiders came in and slaughtered the entire encampment’s population save for three girls before taking their leave.

Navajo leaders were enraged and sent out teams to hunt down these raiders – to no avail.

It wasn’t until after a second similar raid did scouts finally discover a cave the Apache raiders were hiding in.

Revenge was swift, absolute, and merciless, and it seems the act had left a permanent mark.

Drop by this cave to explore the curse it supposedly left behind – if you dare.

Address:  2 Guns, Winslow, AZ 86047, United States

31. Hubbell Trading Post

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During the heyday of Western pioneering, trading hubs were set up so that both pioneers and natives could sell, exchange, and trade goods.

For a fun trip to tick off your Arizona bucket list, why not travel up to the Hubbell Trading Post in the north?

Founded in 1878 by John Lorenzo Hubbell, the trading post ended up supplying the exiled Navajo people when they finally began returning home to their homes – and it hasn’t stopped since.

These days, the trading post is home to all sorts of handmade items like rugs and jewelry.

So if you’re in northern Arizona in search of some interesting activities to do, why not drop by this trading post and support the local craftsmen with your purchase of a one-of-a-kind item?

Address:  1/2 Mile W, S U.S. Hwy 191, Ganado, AZ 86505, United States

32. Coconino Lava River Cave

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Thanks to Arizona’s history of being a geological hotspot, some of the best things to do in Arizona is to check out the ancient landscape.

Shaped and carved over millennia of erosion, it is now full of must-see places that harken back to a pre-historic era, a time where dinosaurs still roamed the Earth and the world was still in its infancy.

These days, Arizona is a pretty stable area in terms of volcanic activity – but all that shifting and flowing has left its mark.

There are certain caverns and tunnels like Coconino Lava River Cave , where lava flowed through these underground passages and permanently reshaped the ground it flowed on.

In this particular case, this cave was the result of a giant lava flow that had run through the earth like an underground river.

It now is a smooth, near-perfect circle that you can swear is a man-made passage.

And that’s just scratching the surface of the beauty this subterranean marvel holds!

Address:  171B Forest Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

33. Tumacacori National Historical Park

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No matter what your Arizona vacation ideas are, checking out the state’s history is always a must do.

After all, nothing quite beats learning about transpired events than by being able to see, touch, and feel the weight of history carried by all that have lived through it.

After centuries of war, raids, and cultural clashes, it is a miracle that the ruins of these three 17th-century missions still stand tall.

These days, the ruins are protected by the establishment of Tumacacori National Historical Park , which serves to care for the surviving ruins as much as possible.

If you’re visiting Arizona, consider walking through the ruins to check out the picturesque Mission of San Jose de Tumacacori, or learning more about the area via the Tumacacori Museum!

Informative guided tours are also available, though the Museum and the Mission remnants provide plenty of information if you’re short on time.

Address:  1891 I-19 Frontage Rd, Tumacacori, AZ 85640, United States

34. Desert Botanical Garden

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Cartoons, movies, and television all tell us that the desert is just nothing but miles and miles of sandy dunes, broken up by the occasional cactus.

If we’re lucky, there may be an oasis with palm trees!

But this is far from the actual reality of this type of land.

In reality, desert regions like Arizona are bursting at the brim with all sorts of incredible plant life – and Desert Botanical Garden is a crucial example.

With over 4,000 species, this garden is overflowing with all the floral beauty a desert can ever hope to muster.

So if you’re still asking about what to see in Arizona, then why not add this garden to your to-do list?

It will certainly be a fun and happy trip that’s designed to bust your expectations of what a desert should be like!

Address:  1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

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Founded in 1880, Bisbee is one of the many mining camps that sprung up in the Old West as pioneers hoped to strike fame and fortune.

Despite the riches it accrued, it, unfortunately, fell to the same fate that other mining towns did, and was quickly abandoned when the mines closed down in the mid-1970s.

These days, its name is the answer to would-be visitors asking where to visit in Arizona – and for good reason.

If the history and incredible surroundings alone aren’t good enough a reason for you, then perhaps the activities it has may spark your interest instead!

What kind of activities, you may ask?

Consider checking out the many museums and galleries this little town holds, or hop along on a guided tour to learn more about Bisbee’s colorful history.

There’s never a dull moment in a historical town such as this one!

Start Planning Your Trip To Arizona

There’s no shortage of Arizona attractions to enjoy, each filled with stuff to do.

With all the great places to travel, there’s no shortage of tourist spots to enjoy so plan a vacation today!

Hopefully, our list of the best things to do in Arizona will help you see all the sights and get to all the destinations that Arizona has to offer!