Arizona Holidays

Cactus-covered deserts, red rock canyons, and sunsets that look photoshopped – Arizona is straight-up stunning. Add spas, stargazing and a touch of the Wild West, and you’re in for a scorcher.

Highlights

• The Grand Canyon – yep, it’s as epic as everyone says

• Sedona’s red rocks – perfect for hikes, healing, and Instagram

• Wild West towns – think cowboy saloons, shootouts, and stetsons

• Stargazing in the desert – clear skies, zero light pollution, 10/10 vibes

Getting around

If you want to see more than one city (and you definitely will), a hire car is your best bet. Arizona’s wide open roads are a road-tripper’s dream, with scenic drives like the one from Phoenix to Sedona worth doing for the views alone. Phoenix and Tucson both have public transport, but it’s limited – so for exploring canyons, ghost towns, or national parks, go four wheels or go home. Just keep your water bottle topped up – it’s hot out there.

Things to do for families in Arizona

Arizona is basically one giant outdoor classroom (but fun). Start at the Grand Canyon – there are kid-friendly trails, ranger talks, and even a junior geologist programme. In Phoenix, the Arizona Science Center and Phoenix Zoo keep little minds busy, while the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is full of hands-on fun. Want a bit of history? Head to Tombstone for Wild West shows and stagecoach rides. For a mix of nature and wow-factor, visit the Meteor Crater or take a pink jeep tour through the red rocks of Sedona. And don’t worry – there are plenty of splash pads and shady spots when the heat hits.

Things to do for couples in Arizona

Looking for desert romance? Arizona brings the heat. Take a sunset hike in Sedona, then relax with a couples’ massage at one of its luxury spas – healing crystals optional. Stargazing in Flagstaff or the Sonoran Desert is next-level dreamy, with some of the darkest skies in the US. Feeling fancy? Scottsdale is packed with rooftop bars, boutique hotels and poolside cocktails. Or if you're more into adventure, hike to a hidden waterfall, ride horses through Monument Valley, or hop in a hot air balloon over the cacti. It’s rugged, romantic and totally unforgettable.

Things to do for groups in Arizona

Got the gang together? Arizona’s a group trip with serious range. Start with a road trip to the Grand Canyon, hit the trails in Sedona, and take those iconic group shots with red rock backdrops. In Scottsdale, grab a poolside cabana by day and hit the clubs or desert bars by night. Fancy something weird and wonderful? Check out the art-meets-architecture vibes of Arcosanti, or explore ghost towns like Jerome for a spooky squad selfie. And if your group is into glamping, there are epic desert domes and cabins where you can stay up stargazing, storytelling and sipping something cold.

Things to do for foodies in Arizona

Arizona’s food scene is a spicy, Southwest-flavoured surprise. Think mesquite-grilled everything, cheesy enchiladas, Navajo fry bread and tacos you’ll be dreaming about long after you’ve left. In Tucson – a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, no less – you’ll find Sonoran hot dogs, food trucks, and some of the best Mexican eats this side of the border. Phoenix is big on brunch, bold flavours and buzzy fusion spots, while Sedona’s got organic cafés and fine dining with mountain views. Add in craft breweries, cactus cocktails and seriously good coffee shops, and you’ve got yourself one tasty trip.