Arizona might seem like one giant, barren desert (if you’re only familiar with the way the state is presented in television and movies), but the Grand Canyon State is so much more diverse than most people realize!
As a fourth-generation Arizona native, I have traveled to many of the major cities, small towns, and wilderness areas, and yet I still haven’t even come close to seeing all that Arizona has to offer!
From the stunning vistas of northern Arizona (including the famous “hole in the ground”, the Grand Canyon) to the hot deserts of the southern areas, there are plenty of interesting cities to visit.
Many tourists come looking to experience some southwest history, cuisine, and culture in addition to Arizona’s incredible landscapes and points of interest.
There’s no shortage of great cities to visit here, but I’ve narrowed it down to the ones that are most likely to give visitors a genuine Arizona experience.
Let’s explore!
1. Sedona
You may have seen pictures of the famous landmarks in Sedona and not even realized that it’s in Arizona!
The iconic red cliffs and rock monuments in the northern Arizona city of Sedona attract visitors from all over the world.
Devil’s Bridge is one of the more recognizable sights near Sedona (pictured above), with options to hike or use a high-clearance vehicle to get you there.
Don’t let social media fool you; behind the camera, there are dozens of people waiting for their chance to get a scenic photo!
Other worthwhile hikes in the area include Seven Sacred Pools, Soldier Pass Cave, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon.
Avoid hiking in the height of summer — by far the best time of year in Sedona is from late September to early December. Fresh snowfall on the red cliffs of Sedona is especially stunning!
The downtown strip of Sedona that runs parallel to Oak Creek offers shopping for souvenirs, fine dining, quaint coffee cafes, and some quick bites perfect for a snack between hiking adventures.
Get a seat on the patio of Creekside American Bistro for a meal with a view.
If you’re not much into hiking (or unable to walk very far), but still want to see the beauty of this high desert in Sedona, grab a reservation on a Jeep tour with Arizona Safari Jeep Tours.
If you’ve chosen to travel to Sedona for a spiritual experience; reserve a spot on a tour of sacred sites and vortexes.
Where to stay: Sky Ranch Lodge or GreenTree Inn
2. Flagstaff
Only 45 minutes north of Sedona lies the largest city in northern Arizona, Flagstaff.
The home of the tallest mountain in Arizona, as well as Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, is an outdoor lovers’ paradise with some of the most gorgeous mountains in the state.
Humphrey’s Peak towers over the city at 12,637 feet in elevation and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Groves of aspen trees cover the slopes of Humphrey’s Peak and in the fall months create a stunning display of yellows, oranges, and reds.
The city of Flagstaff itself sits at almost 7,000 feet of elevation and gets the most snow of any city in Arizona.
The city sprawls throughout the foothills of the mountains, with gorgeous historic neighborhoods and a downtown scene bustling with dining, seasonal festivals, and shopping.
My personal favorite stops for a great post-hike meal in Flagstaff are either Diablo Burger (for the best burger you’ve ever had accompanied by rosemary fries!) or Pizzacletta, which serves Napolitano-style pizza with unique toppings.
Most people visit Flagstaff as a stopping point before embarking on to the Grand Canyon, only an hour and a half drive away.
Over 5 million people visit this National Park every year, and many of them come from Phoenix, through Flagstaff, and then over to the South Rim.
Every person should visit the Canyon at least once in their lifetime!
Experience a day in the Wild West with a historic train ride from nearby Williams to the south rim of the Grand Canyon — make your reservation here. Or visit Flagstaff Xtreme for a challenging ropes course among the towering pine trees!
Where to stay: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriot or Country Inn and Suites by Radisson
3. Bisbee
The quaint and charming small town of Bisbee lies in the remote desert of southern Arizona.
Known for its quirky art scene and unique southwestern dining options, Bisbee is a former mining town turned historical site and tourist attraction.
What started as an old mining town in the late 1800s has turned into a tiny town of less than 5,000 people.
Don’t let the small size and remote location (only 11 miles from the Mexican border) stop you from visiting Bisbee! For those who love art, handmade gifts, live music, museums, restored copper mines, and much more, Bisbee is tucked into the Mule Mountains and in the springtime is surrounded by scenic greenery.
With over a dozen art galleries lining Main Street, art enthusiasts can enjoy classic and contemporary art displays and buy that one-of-a-kind piece they’ve been searching for. Or if you’re looking to figuratively step back in time, take a guided tour into the Queen Mine, which takes you 1,500 feet underground into a real copper mine.
For such a small town, Bisbee boasts an impressive selection of diners, cafes, and fine dining. Many of these restaurants also offer live music in the evenings which creates a great ambiance for a fancy dinner date. Don’t forget to also stop at one of the many shops like Bisbee Soap and Sundry, Vulcan Pottery, and many gift and consignment shops.
A guided E-bike tour is the perfect way to see as much of Bisbee as possible, and it’s easier on the body than walking! Or if you want to take in more of the area, including the infamous town of Tombstone, jump on a full-day tour that embarks from Tucson.
Where to stay: Hotel San Ramon or Bisbee Brownstone Suites
4. Jerome
Arizona is dotted with small towns that used to be booming mining towns in the 1800s and early 1900s.
Today, many of these “ghost towns” are well-known tourist attractions rich with history and culture. Jerome is one such city that every Arizonan and visitor should see in person!
Situated on a rocky hillside between Prescott and Flagstaff, Jerome was once the fourth largest city in the state and grew quickly into a copper mining town in the late 1800s.
Today, only 450 people are permanent residents, but Jerome still has a lot to offer visitors!
Jerome was once known as the “wickedest town in the West” and today holds the honor of the biggest ghost town in America! There’s a bustling art and music scene, a few museums, and points of historic interest.
In Jerome, you’ll also find a lot of stairs, as the town was literally built into the side of Cleopatra Hill.
This small historic town also boasts impressive dining options from steak and burgers to Mexican fare. Try the fish tacos at family-owned Vaqueros Grill and Cantina or grab lunch at the Haunted Hamburger, which is usually fairly busy so you know it’s good!
There are a few historic attractions that are worth the visit as well. The famous Jerome Sliding Jail sits about 200 feet lower than where it was originally built, as erosion and the weight of the brick building caused it to slide slowly downhill.
Jerome State Historic Park started out as a sprawling mansion at the top of the town, and it is now a well-preserved museum with artifacts and more from Jerome and the surrounding ghost town mining communities.
Driving to Jerome and enjoying the art galleries, restaurants, museums, and shops of Main Street is a popular day trip from the Phoenix area, as it is only a two-hour drive one way. So if you’re looking for a taste of the Wild West but don’t want to spend a night away from home, Jerome is a great option.
Reserve a spot on a ghost town night tour and learn about the hauntings, myths, and legends of the area! If that feels too spooky, and “normal” history is more your style, take part in a History Walk through the streets of Jerome.
Where to stay: The Clinkscale or the historic Connor Hotel
5. Tucson
Only two hours south of Phoenix lies the second largest metropolitan area in Arizona, Tucson.
Surrounded by a pristine desert, a national park, wilderness areas, and stunning mountains, Tucson is kind of a hidden gem (even though half a million people live there).
The University of Arizona is located in the heart of Tucson, and just like any college town, there’s always so much to do!
For those who love the nightlife, The Congress Street District, Main Gate District, and Fourth Ave District have all of the nightclubs, restaurants, bars, and live music that college students (and anyone, really!) could enjoy.
If you’re looking for more of an outdoor adventure with Tucson as your home base, you’re in luck!
The incredible Sabino Canyon just northeast of the city is a popular destination for hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and so much more!
You’ll be astounded by the vast saguaro forests in this area of the Catalina Mountains. Mt. Lemmon is also nearby, and it has a ski resort at its peak.
Even if the weather is hot, there are still things to do “outside” — enter the limestone cave systems near Tucson. Colossal Cave Mountain Park and Kartchner Caverns State Park are two incredible cave sites that offer tours inside.
Tucson also boasts a zoo (Reid Park Zoo), Saguaro National Park (split into two sections on the east and west sides of Tucson), the Pima Air and Space Museum (in addition to dozens of other museums), and my personal favorite, the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a gorgeous church building that was built in the 1700s!
I’m not entirely sure why people who visit Arizona seem to forget about Tucson, but it really is a remarkable city with so much culture, history, nightlife, and attractions.
If you’re looking for a true Southwest experience without the hustle and bustle of the Phoenix area, Tucson should be on your list.
I love a good history tour, and Tucson is full of rich stories from centuries ago! Join this excellent guided tour here. If you are looking for an outdoor adventure option, on the other side of Mt Lemmon you can get out of your comfort zone and enjoy a fly-by of the Sonoran Desert by zipline!
Where to stay: The Lodge at Ventana Canyon or Hotel McCoy
6. Scottsdale
Located east of Phoenix lies the luxurious city of Scottsdale, the home of high-end resorts, restaurants, nightlife, and some of the most expensive homes in Arizona.
If you’re coming to Arizona and looking for the most deluxe experience, Scottsdale is the place to be.
For fans of architectural history and famous designs, you’ll want to visit here; acclaimed architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed 11 houses in the Phoenix area with most of them being in Scottsdale.
Homes and buildings like Taliesin West, the Pieper House, the Norman Lykes House, and the Arizona Biltmore Hotel were all designed by Wright and remain monuments to his talent.
The OdySea Aquarium is a newer attraction in the Scottsdale area and is the largest aquarium in the southwest.
Enjoy viewing over 6,000 animals in this giant indoor aquarium, and take a seat on the Voyager, the world’s first and only rotating aquarium experience with glass walls up to 40+ feet high! The otters and penguins are a favorite of visitors as well.
The best shopping in the Phoenix area is definitely in Scottsdale, with luxury brands and more affordable stores all located within the sprawling Scottsdale Fashion Center. Get ready to shop ‘til you drop!
In Scottsdale, there are almost too many things to do! Old Town Scottsdale is home to dozens of restaurants, from fancy fare like Virtu Honest Craft to delicious bar food at Brat Haus (both of these restaurants are a favorite of mine!).
Grab dessert at the classic Sugar Bowl, a vintage-style ice cream parlor that has been scooping up deliciousness since 1958!
For some outdoor adventuring, look no further than the nearby McDowell Mountains with a regional state park complete with miles and miles of trails through the exquisite Sonoran Desert.
These trail systems are a personal favorite of mine and provide plenty of routes for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and trail running.
The most fun way to get around Old Town Scottsdale is to climb aboard a party bike with your friends and travel from bar to bar, having fun and partying the whole way! This is a great option for a girl’s night out or a bachelor party.
If you want to see as much as possible while enjoying a car-free route through some of Scottsdale’s best sites, jump aboard an electric seated scooter and explore the city via the Scottsdale Greenbelt Oasis.
Where to stay: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess or Scottsdale Camelback Resort
7. Page
On the Utah/Arizona border, the landscape takes on an almost “Mars-like” appearance.
The winding narrow canyons through ancient sandstone, the stunning Lake Powell, and the towers and striped cliffs in a hundred different shades of red and brown at the Vermillion Cliffs all combine to create an otherworldly outdoor experience.
Right on the cusp of all of these natural wonders is the small city of Page.
Located up on a mesa with views of the surrounding desert, Page started out as a small settlement for workers who were building the nearby Glenn Canyon Dam (which is well worth the visit!).
Today, it is home to about 7,000 people with thousands more visitors coming through every year.
Page is a great jumping-off point for enjoying some of the most unique and awe-inspiring natural wonders in all of Arizona.
Lake Powell, which is a reservoir created by the aforementioned Glenn Canyon Dam, is one of the biggest lakes in the southwest and welcomes over 3 million people every year!
Nearby Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous visions of the southwest, with its stunning deep and narrow canyons carved through the sandstone by eons of water and wind erosion.
Another favorite and one of the more recognizable sights in all of Arizona is Horseshoe Bend, a huge massive curve in the Colorado River that creates the shape of a horseshoe and offers incredible views of the canyon.
Other notable places nearby include The Wave, Paria Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs, Navajo Bridge, Coyote Gulch, and countless backcountry hiking and camping opportunities.
This area of northern Arizona is a truly wild place with some of the most unique landscapes, which cannot be found anywhere else.
The most popular reason people visit Page is to take a tour inside Antelope Canyon. You can only enter this sacred place with a guided tour from local Indigenous people who have made this area their home for centuries.
I find it’s truly special to experience this part of Arizona by air, as there’s so much to see and your feet can only take you so far! I recommend taking a helicopter tour of all the special places around Page.
Where to stay: Hampton Inn and Suites or La Quinta Inn and Suites
8. Payson
Not all of Arizona is desert! In fact, the giant plateau known as the Mogollon Rim stretches across the middle of Arizona for over 200 miles.
The areas on top and just below this plateau are known as “Rim Country”, and dozens of small towns and cities are nestled in the pine forests.
Payson is one of these towns and happens to be one of the main gateways to the high country.
Located only 75 miles from Mesa, Payson was settled at the base of the Mogollon Rim and is an excellent jumping-off point for experiencing some of the best outdoor adventuring that Arizona has to offer.
The world’s largest Ponderosa Pine forest is actually in Arizona, and these towering trees dominate the Mogollon Rim and the areas below.
Providing great shade and a welcome respite from the heat in the Phoenix Valley, these forested areas around Payson contain some of the best-kept secrets of Arizona.
A favorite hike of mine in this area is Horton Creek, only a few minutes east of Payson.
I always stop in Payson to grab a snack before continuing to the 8-mile round trip hike up to Horton Springs, complete with its gently flowing creek and shaded trail.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is a perfect outdoor adventure fit for families with smaller kids, as the hike is short and not too strenuous and you get to stand under the largest natural travertine bridge in the world!
It’s only a short drive north of Payson.
Further on that same highway is the small town of Pine, which has an excellent system of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
In Payson, you’ll find some classic mom-and-pop restaurants like Fargo’s Steakhouse and shops as well as chain restaurants and larger supermarkets.
Even with living in the mountains, the residents and visitors of Payson have pretty much everything they need without having to travel to Phoenix.
For a guided hike and tour of nearby Salome Canyon, complete with a 40-foot rappel at the end and a refreshing hike through the creek, book a group trip here.
Where to stay: Majestic Mountain Inn or Kohl’s Ranch Lodge
9. Mesa
The suburbs of Phoenix are huge, spreading out in every direction for miles. One of the most populous of these is Mesa, located on the eastern edge of the Valley.
Home to the spring training of several professional baseball teams, Mesa is a popular stop for vacationers and “snowbirds” in the winter and spring months.
Downtown Mesa is a cultural hotspot with the Mesa Arts Center, several museums, unique and quirky restaurants, a large Mormon Temple surrounded by beautiful grounds and gardens, and much more.
The Natural History Museums and i.d.e.a Museum are especially popular for families with small kids.
If you’re looking for an outdoor activity the whole family can enjoy, the Salt River is only a short drive from north Mesa and is the go-to place for paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, tubing, or just relaxing on the shore.
Keep an eye out for the wild horses, herons, otters, and other wild animals that make the Salt River their home.
Saguaro, Canyon, and Apache Lakes are also just a short drive from here.
Hiking is another must-do in Mesa; just outside the city limits is the Hawes trail system and Usery Pass Regional Park, with miles and miles of trails perfect for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
Here you’ll also see some wildlife including deer, rabbits, javelina, and coyotes!
Many people who move to the Phoenix Valley choose to make Mesa their home, and for good reason. The schools are top-notch, the dining options are endless, the neighborhoods are quiet and family-friendly, and the commutes to Phoenix aren’t too long at all.
Many who visit Mesa for just a short time end up wanting to move here, and it’s not hard to see why!
If you want to explore some of the Mesa area’s history and experience a day on Apache Lake, the Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Tour is a great place to start.
Where to stay: Home2Suites by Hilton Mesa or Courtyard by Marriot Mesa
10. Lake Havasu City
Want to go to the beach but don’t want to deal with California traffic? Then Lake Havasu City is the city for you!
Located on the shores of Lake Havasu (as the name suggests), this popular retirement community boasts 300 sunny days a year and unlimited water sports opportunities.
If you thought the London Bridge was located in London, England, think again! The historic London Bridge actually spans the Bridgewater Channel in Lake Havasu City, and under/near the bridge are plenty of venues for some nightlife fun, live music, shopping, and dining.
Paddle boarders and swimmers take advantage of the smooth, calm waters in the channel.
Visitors to Lake Havasu City often spend hours out on the water under the hot sun on their boats, wave runners, kayaks, paddle boards, or on the beach.
There’s nothing better after a long day in the water than eating a finely crafted meal; luckily, Lake Havasu City has over 140 restaurants to choose from!
If water sports aren’t your thing, near Lake Havasu City there are miles of trails for hiking or riding ATVs.
Or, grab your skateboard or BMX bike and head to the largest multi-use skate park in Arizona, the Tinnell Memorial Skate Park.
Personally, I steer clear of stepping on a skateboard but I sure do enjoy watching others show off their skills!
As a destination city for many retirees, there’s no shortage of annual events that are sure to keep visitors busy and entertained year-round. The Havasu Balloon Festival and Fair is a crowd favorite every January, and the sight of giant hot air balloons gently floating over London Bridge is really special!
I recommend taking a ride on a historic, restored paddle boat to enjoy the sights of Lake Havasu at sunset!
Where to stay: The Nautical Beachfront Resort or London Bridge Resort
11. Phoenix
Of course, we can’t talk about cities to visit in Arizona without including the obvious! Phoenix, the state capital, is a sprawling metropolis surrounded by suburbs spreading out in all directions.
The Phoenix Valley is huge, home to over 7 million people, with no shortage of things to do and see.
My personal favorite is the Phoenix Zoo, and during the cooler months, I go at least once a week with my two girls!!
With over 3,000 animals and plenty of walking paths, it’s a great way for moms with young kids to get out of the house and enjoy some fresh air and beautiful creatures from all over the world.
Near the Phoenix Zoo are a few other great outdoor options that are right in the city limits. Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Golf Course, and the Hole in the Rock trail are all located within a half mile of the zoo entrance!
Downtown Phoenix is where all the excitement happens; professional sports like the Arizona Diamondbacks (baseball) and Phoenix Suns (basketball) both have their home stadiums right in downtown, with plenty of eating and other entertainment options located right next door.
There’s no shortage of interesting and educational museums in Phoenix as well.
- The Musical Instrument Museum holds thousands of rare, old, and valuable instruments from all over the world.
- The Phoenix Art Museum is perfect for art enthusiasts, with new art installations rotating through all year long.
- The Children’s Museum and Arizona Science Center are both local favorites for parents and kids alike, with hands-on exhibits that help facilitate a fun learning environment!
In winter, Phoenix becomes a hot spot for outdoor enthusiasts, especially golfers. With almost 30 golf courses just in Phoenix alone, with even more in the surrounding suburbs, Arizona’s capital city is a golfer’s paradise.
Whether you’re looking for top-of-the-line courses or a simple driving range, you’ll be sure to find a golf course within your budget in Phoenix.
There’s nothing quite like seeing a new city from the air! Step into a hot air balloon (don’t worry, it is plenty safe!) and enjoy seeing Phoenix at sunrise from new heights.
Phoenix also has a bustling art scene, and First Fridays every month is a way for local artists and small business owners to show off their talents. Explore local artists with a guided art tour.
Where to stay: Arizona Biltmore or Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel
It’s Hard to Pick the Best City in Arizona!
Arizona is such a diverse state with a few distinct cities that every visitor to the Grand Canyon State should visit. If you’re wanting an adventure outdoors, choose Flagstaff or Sedona. Tuscon also has a great mix of outdoor and city life that makes a great visit for the whole family.
Phoenix is such a big city that it would probably take weeks for you to do it all, but Bisbee and Jerome would make for perfect day trips. Sedona is definitely the most scenic out of all the cities on this list, while Scottsdale is the most luxurious.
Since I’m an outdoor enthusiast myself, I tend to steer towards cities that offer a lot of hiking, biking, trail running, or camping options. Flagstaff fits the bill for me every time, and I always make a trip up there from my home in Mesa at least once or twice a year! Humphrey’s Peak is especially beautiful in October when the aspens are at their most glorious yellow and gold.
If you’re new to hiking in Arizona, be prepared for anything! The weather and terrain vary greatly throughout the state so it’s best to know what you’re in for — check out my advice on hiking in Arizona here.
