25 Experiences for the Ultimate Arizona Bucket List
From tasting ice cream at Sweet Republic to rafting in the Grand Canyon, here are 25 of the best experiences for your Arizona bucket list.
Written by Andrea Barrett
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Arizona is home to some of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest with remnants of the Wild West sprinkled all over. You can find epic outdoor adventures, tastes of the region, or oodles of history, in every corner of the state so the most challenging part of your trip won’t be rafting down the Colorado River—it will be figuring out what you want to see!
If you’re unsure where to start with things to do in Arizona,
Jerry
—the car insurance
comparison super app
—is here with 25 experiences for the Ultimate Arizona bucket list. We’re giving you the top outdoor activity, the best local eats, and activities you can only experience in Arizona! RECOMMENDED
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Outdoor activities for your California bucket list
1. Enjoy the wild west in Goldfield Ghost Town
Where: 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119
When: 10am-5pm Mon-Sun
Why: Arizona is famous for its
ghost towns
, and Goldfield Ghost Town
is a must-see. Browse the shops and historic buildings, check out the Goldfield Museum, tour the Mammoth Gold Mine, or grab a bite at the Mammoth Steakhouse & Saloon
.How much? Depends on the activity
Pro Tip Plan to spend a few days here because a few hours isn’t nearly enough!
2. Visit Sedona
Where: Sedona, Arizona
When: Year-round
Why: Sedona is known for brilliant red rock formations and an abundance of open-air adventures. It was supposedly home to prehistoric humans over 10,000 years ago, and you can still find remains of ancient settlements. Today, Sedona is a hub for spiritual communities with stunning trails, viewpoints, and plenty of opportunities for prayer and meditation. There’s lots to do in the area year-round—
Chapel of the Holy Cross
, Red Rock Country
, Cathedral Rock Trail, Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
, and Oak Creek Canyon
to name a few!How much? Depends on the activity
3. Stay in Monument Valley
Where: Indn, Route 42, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
When: Spring and fall
Why: Also known as the Valley of Rocks,
Monument Valley
is the home of the Native American population of the Navajos. The Valley is full of gorgeous 1000-foot tall sandstone rock formations making for some stunning photo ops. You have several options to spend a couple of days here—hotels, camping, and even glamping—but keep in mind that the nights get chilly, so pack accordingly! How much? $8 (park entry fee)
4. Enjoy the views at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Where: 4304 Bullfrog, Lake Powell, UT 84533
When: Year-round
Why: With more than 1.25 million acres of land and water to explore from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah, it’s easy to spend several days in
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
. You can find plenty of scenic vistas, geologic wonders, and a complete panorama of human history at places like Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, and more.How much? $15 per person (valid for 7 days) or $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
MORE: 5 best road trips in Arizona for outdoor adventure
5. Adventure into Lake Mead
Where: Mohave County
When: Year-round
Why: Whether you’re looking to swim, hike, fish, or tan, you can do it all at
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
. It’s one of the top attractions in Arizona and Nevada and where three of America’s four desert ecosystems—The Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran Deserts—come together. On top of the plethora of outdoor activities to do in Lake Mead, you’ll also find astonishingly diverse wildlife and an abundance of flora—including several species that can only be found here. How much? $15 per person (valid for 7 days) or $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
6. Reenact a performance in Tombstone
Where: Tombstone, AZ 85638
When: Year-round
Why:
Tombstone
is famous for its mining history and the 1881 “Gunfight at the OK Corral” between the infamous Earp brothers. This small historic town was a rough place back in the day but has since become one of Arizona’s top tourist destinations. Reenact a piece of history and pose in the famous gunfight!How much? Depends on the activity
7. Scope out the petrified wood at Petrified Forest National Park
Where: Northeastern Arizona (Navajo and Apache counties) about an hour and a half east of Flagstaff
When: October and November
Why:
Petrified Forest National Park
is home to some of the best collections of petrified wood in the country. The scenery is stunning and full of vibrant badlands and rolling hills as well as beautifully colored mesas and the gorgeous Painted Desert. Take some time to learn about the history of the Pueblo people while you’re there.How much? $15 per person (valid for 7 days) or $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
8. Catch the cacti in Saguaro National Park
Where:
Tucson
When: December to February
Why: The giant saguaro cactus is the universal symbol of the American west, but they’re only found in a small part of the US. You can find an abundance of them here at
Saguaro National Park
backdropped by the stunning desert landscape. Some have lived for more than 200 years and weigh over seven tons! Check out Rincon Mountains, Gates Pass, Cactus Forest Drive, and Wasson Peak while you’re hereHow much? $15 per person (valid for 7 days) or $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
9. Experience the magic of the Beaver Falls Trail in Havasu Creek
Where: Beaver Falls, Arizona 86435
When: April to October
Why: Beaver Falls has a magical aura and is a must-see if you’re heading to Arizona. The 6-mile roundtrip trail to get there is heavily trafficked and rated difficult, but you’ll be rewarded with some of the most stunning views of Havasu Falls and Beaver Falls.
How much? $100-$125 per person for camping; $550+ per night for the lodge + permit costs
Pro Tip You’ll need to camp at Havasu to get to Beaver Falls—day hiking is not permitted, and reservations must be made in advance.
10. Venture to Bisbee
Where: Bisbee
When: Year-round
Why: Bisbee was a booming mining town back in the 1880s filled with people looking to get rich, but has since become a tourist hotspot for anyone looking for American Wild West history with a side of unique culture. Located just 10 miles north of the Mexican border, Bisbee has a cool, scruffy vibe with lots of abandoned mines, Victorian-styled homes, and street murals to enjoy.
How much? Free
The meals that should be on your Arizona bucket list
11. The Chop & Chick at Matt’s Big Breakfast in Phoenix
Where: 825 N 1st St. Phoenix, AZ 85004 (+ 2 other locations)
When: 7 am-2 pm, Mon-Sun
Why: A favorite of Guy Fieri,
Matt’s Big Breakfast
is cooking up some of the best breakfast in Phoenix. Check out the famous Chop & Chick—two eggs and a skillet-seared Iowa pork rib chop served with toast and your choice of potatoes. Sweet lovers can’t go wrong with their scratch-made Belgian-style waffles with sweet cream butter, 100% real Vermont maple syrup, and two slices of thick-cut bacon. It’s the best way to start the day!How much? $13.99
12. Toffee Banofi Sundae at Sweet Republic Ice Cream Shop in Scottsdale
Where: 9160 E Shea Blvd #105, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
When: 12-10 pm Sun-Thurs, 12-11 pm Fri-Sat
Why:
Sweet Republic Ice Cream Shop
is a staple for the toffee banofi sundae—a favorite of Food Network star Alton Brown. It’s two scoops of vanilla bean ice cream topped with almond toffee brittle, fresh bananas, salted caramel sauce, and whip cream, all served in a waffle bowl. Locals also rave about the seasonal basil lime and honey blue cheese flavors—we know it sounds weird but they are worth a try!How much? $9.50
13. Crispy chicken sandwich at Worth Takeaway in Mesa
Where: 218 West Main Street Mesa, Arizona 85201
When: 10:30 am-9 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun
Why: Southern fried chicken has nothing on the crispy chicken sandwich from
Worth Takeaway
. It’s crispy chicken breast piled on a soft bun with house-made pickles, lettuce, honey sriracha, and mayo. They have loads of other delicious hand-helds to choose from, too—if you don’t want the bread, toss it in a bowl or try one of their other alternatives! How much? $15.50
14. Little Miss BBQ in Phoenix
Where: 8901 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020
When: 11 am-7 pm Tues-Sat, 11 am-3 pm Sun
Why: If you’re looking for classic BBQ favorites,
Little Miss BBQ
hasBBQ so good you’ll think you’re in Texas. From the fall-off-the-bone ribs and succulent pulled pork to the ranch-style beans, jalapeno cheddar grits, and Bekke’s smoked pecan pie, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.How much? $4 - $35
15. Mole Enchiladas at Barrio Cafe in Phoenix
Where: 2814 N. 16th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85006
When: 11 am-9 pm Sun-Thurs, 11 am-10 pm Fri-Sat
Why: Head to
Barrio Cafe
if you’re in the mood for ultra-delicious, flavorful authentic Mexican food. Everything on the menu is to die for, but the Mole Enchiladas are a must—corn tortillas filled with chicken and quesillo cheese topped with your choice of mole (negro, rojo, ahumado). If you’re not a meat-eater, the Mole Calabacitas is equally as delicious. How much? $25
16. Anything with burrata at Cibo Pizzeria in Phoenix
Where: 603 N 5th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003
When: 11 am-9 pm Tues-Thurs, 11 am-10 pm Fri, 5-10 pm Sat, 5-9 pm Sun
Why: You can’t go wrong with Italian food, and
Cibo Pizzeria
in Phoenix has got a good thing going—especially with their burrata. The Dolce Vita and the Da Vinci pizzas are a must-try, and they’ve got a large selection of salads, antipasti, pasta, and saltimboccas if you’re not in the mood for pie. Don’t forget to save room for their house-made Italian desserts! How much? $17+
17. Louisiana Gumbo at High Tide Seafood Bar & Grill in Gilbert
Where: 2540 S Val Vista Dr., Suite 101, Gilbert, AZ 85295
When: 3-9pm Tues-Thurs, 11:30am-10pm Fri-Sat, 11:30am-9pm Sun
Why: You’re in for a southern-style treat at
High Tide Seafood Bar & Grill
—their Louisiana Gumbo is out of this world. This rich creole stew filled with andouille sausage, chicken, okra, crab meat, shrimp, and crawfish is a seafood party you won’t want to miss. How much? $23
18. Pretzels & cheese sauce at Proof Canteen in Scottsdale
Where: 10600 E Crescent Moon Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
When: 7 am-9 pm Mon-Sun
Why:
Proof Canteen
is serving up some of the best comfort food in Arizona. Whether you’re passing by for a quick bite or stopping for a drink with friends, be sure to order the house-made pretzels with spicy cheese sauce. They’re both crispy and soft with a nice zing from the sauce. Pro Tip Order your own because you will not want to share!
19. Any donut at Mesa Donuts in Mesa
Where: 6008 E McKellips Rd, Mesa, AZ 85215
When: 4 am-1 pm Mon-Fri, 5 am-1 pm Sat, 6 am-1 pm Sun
Why: The donuts at
Mesa Donuts
may not be the fanciest, but they just might be the tastiest. With a variety of flavors daily, they’re simple, fresh, and the best donuts you’ll find in the east valley.Only-in-Arizona experiences for your bucket list
20. Get a photo at ‘The Wave’ in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Where: Coyote Buttes North area
When: Year-round
Why: Located in
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
, ‘The Wave
’ is one of the most iconic photo destinations in the southwest US. The 6-mile roundtrip hike to get there doesn’t have a significant elevation gain, but there is no path so you’ll need some stellar navigational skills. You’ll find picturesque views of natural Jurassic Navajo sandstone with stunning striations of red, orange, pink, yellow, and beige. How much? $9 to enter the permit lottery + $7 per person for the permit
Pro Tip Get there by mid-morning to early afternoon to minimize shadows for the perfect picture.
21. Visit Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
Where: Winslow
When: 8 am-5 pm, Mon-Sun
Why: If you want to see a real-life piece of history up close and personal, head to
Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
—formed by a meteor over 50,000 years ago. It measures 550 feet deep and almost a mile wide! You can experience the landmark in an air-conditioned indoor viewing area, outside on the observation deck and self-guided trails, or take a guided tour along the rim. How much? $24 per person (adults) or $15 for children (up to 15 years)
22. Explore Phoenix
Where: 4619 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
When: 9am-4:45pm
Why: Whether you’re an Arizona resident or just passing through, you can’t head to Arizona without making a stop in
Phoenix
. This cultural hub is loaded with museums, parks, recreation areas, cultural centers, and pretty darn tasty food. Here are a few stops worth making: Desert Botanical Garden
, Camelback Mountain
, South Mountain Park and Preserve
, and Pueblo Grande Museum
.How much? Depends on the activity
23. Raft the Colorado River
Where: Multiple starting points throughout the state
When: May to September
Why: Rafting the Colorado River is one of the most unique ways to experience the Grand Canyon and provides a once-in-a-lifetime thrill like no other. Trips generally range anywhere from four days to two weeks and start at Lees Ferry near
Page, Arizona
. Make sure to book your trip early—waiting lists can be lengthy!How much? Depends on the tour
24. Kayak to Emerald Cove in Black Canyon
Where: Willow Beach
When: Year-round
Why: The famous Emerald Cove is located in
Black Canyon
on the Arizona/Nevada border. Its stunning green water attracts people from all over, but you can only reach it by kayak or boat. Emerald Cove is small, so a kayak is the best way to experience its beauty. There’s plenty of beauty in the Black Canyon, so you may go for the cave, but you’ll experience much more on the way.How much? $25 to enter Lake Mead + the cost to rent a boat/kayak
25. Hike the Grand Canyon
Where: Northwest corner of Arizona
When: April to June
Why: No trip to Arizona would be complete without checking the
Grand Canyon
off your bucket list. The spectacular views are unlike anything you can find in the US and it’s one of the most recognizable locations worldwide. The enormous scale and vivid colors are the results of erosion more than 5 million years in the making. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, camp, or raft, there’s no shortage of breathtaking panoramas, jaw-dropping views, and things to do in this magical place. How much? $20 per person or $35 per vehicle
MORE: How to check for Arizona road closures
Live your best life with affordable Arizona car insurance
Finding the best stops to put on your Arizona bucket list is the fun part, but make sure to find time for the less exciting things, too—like upgrading your
car insurance
policy. Finding affordable coverage in a sea of providers can be challenging and time-consuming, but when you shop with Jerry
, you’ll find the best coverage at the lowest rate in no time. Shopping for car insurance with Jerry is the easiest and quickest way to save money on car insurance. As a top-rated insurance app, Jerry scans through more than 50 top insurance providers to find the coverage you need at the cheapest rate. You can sign up in less than 45 seconds and browse through your customized list of the most competitive quotes almost instantly.
Once you find the right policy, connect with an agent to finalize the details and cancel your existing policy. The best part? Jerry users save over $800 a year on car insurance!
“I would 11/10 recommendJerry. I was originally quoted $700+ for insurance for my new car, but by using Jerry I got my payments down to $320 a month. They also have a great support team ready to answer any questions!” —Tobias F.
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