10 Fun Things to Do in Arizona (With Google Maps Links)
Arizona isn’t just desert and cacti—it’s a land of jaw-dropping canyons, hidden swimming holes, historic towns, and red rock playgrounds. Whether you live here or you’re visiting, here are 10 unforgettable things to do in Arizona, complete with Google Maps links to help you find them fast.
1. Hike Cathedral Rock in Sedona
Why Go: One of the most photographed rock formations in Arizona. Short but steep climb with epic views.
Google Maps: Cathedral Rock Trailhead
Sedona’s red rocks never disappoint, and Cathedral Rock is one of the best spots to catch sunset or sunrise. It’s a bit of a scramble but worth every step.
Google Maps: Cathedral Rock Trailhead
Sedona’s red rocks never disappoint, and Cathedral Rock is one of the best spots to catch sunset or sunrise. It’s a bit of a scramble but worth every step.
2. Take a Scenic Drive on Apache Trail (AZ-88)
Why Go: A rugged, winding drive through the Superstition Mountains with stops like Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat.
Google Maps: Apache Trail Start
This old stagecoach route offers some of the best views in central Arizona. Just be cautious—the road gets narrow and unpaved past Tortilla Flat.
Google Maps: Apache Trail Start
This old stagecoach route offers some of the best views in central Arizona. Just be cautious—the road gets narrow and unpaved past Tortilla Flat.
3. Tour Antelope Canyon – Page, AZ
Why Go: Walk through glowing sandstone corridors in this world-famous slot canyon.
Google Maps: Antelope Canyon
Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon both require guided tours, but the surreal beauty makes it a bucket-list experience. Book ahead—spots fill fast.
Google Maps: Antelope Canyon
Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon both require guided tours, but the surreal beauty makes it a bucket-list experience. Book ahead—spots fill fast.
4. Float the Salt River – Near Mesa, AZ
Why Go: Lazy river tubing through desert canyons with wild horse sightings.
Google Maps: Salt River Tubing Launch
Perfect for summer. Grab a tube, some drinks, and let the river do the work. Don’t forget water shoes and sunscreen.
Google Maps: Salt River Tubing Launch
Perfect for summer. Grab a tube, some drinks, and let the river do the work. Don’t forget water shoes and sunscreen.
5. Explore Jerome – Arizona’s Coolest Ghost Town
Why Go: A historic mining town turned artsy mountain village with haunted hotels, wineries, and killer views.
Google Maps: Jerome, AZ
Walk the steep streets, explore antique shops, or grab a drink at the Haunted Hamburger. The whole town is perched on a mountainside.
Google Maps: Jerome, AZ
Walk the steep streets, explore antique shops, or grab a drink at the Haunted Hamburger. The whole town is perched on a mountainside.
6. Go Stargazing at Lowell Observatory – Flagstaff, AZ
Why Go: One of the best places in the country for dark-sky stargazing and telescope tours.
Google Maps: Lowell Observatory
Flagstaff is a Dark Sky City, and this historic observatory is where Pluto was discovered. Check the schedule for public star parties and night programs.
Google Maps: Lowell Observatory
Flagstaff is a Dark Sky City, and this historic observatory is where Pluto was discovered. Check the schedule for public star parties and night programs.
7. Visit Horseshoe Bend – Page, AZ
Why Go: See the Colorado River curve in a perfect horseshoe shape 1,000 feet below.
Google Maps: Horseshoe Bend
A short hike from the parking area leads to this Instagram-famous overlook. It’s best viewed at sunrise or sunset for soft lighting.
Google Maps: Horseshoe Bend
A short hike from the parking area leads to this Instagram-famous overlook. It’s best viewed at sunrise or sunset for soft lighting.
8. Cool Off at Slide Rock State Park – Sedona, AZ
Why Go: Natural water slides and swimming holes in Oak Creek Canyon.
Google Maps: Slide Rock State Park
This is one of the most unique swimming spots in Arizona. Great for families, though it can get crowded in summer—arrive early.
Google Maps: Slide Rock State Park
This is one of the most unique swimming spots in Arizona. Great for families, though it can get crowded in summer—arrive early.
9. Take a Day Trip to Bisbee – Southern AZ
Why Go: Explore historic tunnels, colorful staircases, breweries, and artsy vibes in this quirky mining town.
Google Maps: Bisbee, AZ
Tour the Queen Mine, browse local art shops, or just soak in the small-town charm. Bisbee is like nowhere else in Arizona.
Google Maps: Bisbee, AZ
Tour the Queen Mine, browse local art shops, or just soak in the small-town charm. Bisbee is like nowhere else in Arizona.
10. Visit the Grand Canyon – South Rim
Why Go: It’s the Grand Canyon. No explanation needed.
Google Maps: Grand Canyon South Rim
Hike the rim, take a helicopter ride, or just stare into the abyss. The South Rim is the most accessible and has the best visitor amenities.
Google Maps: Grand Canyon South Rim
Hike the rim, take a helicopter ride, or just stare into the abyss. The South Rim is the most accessible and has the best visitor amenities.