Move over, Florida. There’s a new Sunshine State in town.
Arizona boasts a higher number of sunny days per year (average 300 versus Florida’s 250), but that’s not the only reason why this state is climbing up the Top Ten list of tourist destinations.
This little sleeper state is seeing the booming effects of popularity, as people flock to the Tucson airport car rentals to get reliable transportation on their way to explore the natural attractions the Grand Canyon State has to offer. Let’s take a trek into why Arizona should be next on your bucket list vacation.
The Nature is Spectacular
We’re not talking “beautiful.” Arizona’s majestic landscapes go far beyond that label. Chances are, when you come foot-to-edge with the world-famous mile-deep Grand Canyon, you’ll forget how to breathe for a few seconds, and you’ll realize instantly why it’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. If you’re an adventurer at heart and physically capable, consider planning an overnight hike down into the canyon and along the Colorado River. However, this takes advanced notice, as you’ll need a permit.
Beyond the Grand Canyon, visitors are enchanted by other geological formations, too. Be sure to add Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Monument Valley to your itinerary. If waterfalls are your thing, Havasupai Falls and Fossil Springs won’t disappoint. These favorite hiking destinations are just right for a picnic, photo shoot, and all-around recharge from the daily grind.
From the flat canyons full of cacti and tumbleweed to the snow-capped mountain peaks, there’s something for everyone in Arizona’s natural beauty.
Famous Towns Are on the Map
Arizona is cemented in history as an Old West state. You’ll find history nearly everywhere you go. If you’re interested in learning about the Gold Rush, mining adventures, railroad history, and other aspects of pioneer life, you’ll want to add these towns to your trip:
- Tombstone: This famous Old West mining town regained interest after the 1990s movie of the same name. Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and Johnny Ringo were the OG celebrities of the time, and Tombstone, with its mining camps and buildings that tell the story of its historic life, continues to win over visitors’ hearts today.
- Bisbee: Home to the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, this town is a must-visit for anyone interested in mining history.
- Flagstaff: Full of natural wonders and history, Flagstaff includes famous sites like the Riordan Mansion and Pioneer Museum.
These towns are worth a full day (or more) of exploring, but if you still need to fill your schedule with interesting destinations, check out Taliesin West (Franklin Lloyd Wright’s winter home near Scottsdale), Meteor Crater (a well-preserved meteorite impact site), and Verde Canyon Railroad, complete with vintage passenger cars from 1926.
Sunshine, History, and Natural Wonders in a Modern Setting
Arizona’s historic and natural wonders attract visitors from around the globe, but this state isn’t mired in the past. The modern setting includes environmentally friendly, state-of-the-art technology, some of the country’s largest corporations, and contemporary art and entertainment. For a vacation that gives you the best of all worlds, head to Arizona.
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
