Trying to plan a trip with no knowledge of the destination beforehand can be a bit intimidating. So I went ahead and put together the best things to do when you only have 3 days in Arizona all to give you some inspiration and ideas for your next Arizona adventure!
If I am being honest, Arizona was not high on my dream destinations list. My friend and I were sitting in a coffee shop talking about wanting to travel more while browsing google flights. Before I knew it I was staring at a cheap ticket to Arizona while thinking, what the heck why not, let’s book it. Looking back now, I can say I am so glad we went and I loved all that Arizona had to offer!
Day 1:
Activity 1: piestewa peak park
If you are flying to Arizona, chances are you’ll fly into the Phoenix airport. Now if you are flying I would suggest renting a car to have the freedom to explore more of what Arizona has to offer. I will also warn you now, that these suggestions will probably appeal more to the hikers and outdoor lovers among us:)
After landing and getting your car you might want to stretch your legs a bit. One park that I loved exploring and that we went back to multiple times was Piestewa Peak Park! They have so many trails and mountains to climb. You can pack a picnic and have lunch, strolling around the easier paths after, or strap on your hiking boots and climb the main peak itself for an amazing view of Phoenix! Either way, you can’t go wrong here, there are many different peaks to explore plus if you have a four-legged friend they are more than welcome here too!
Activity 2: victory steps at verrado
If you want a place to watch the sunrise in Phoenix I got you, Victory Steps at Verrado is the place to go! This is a little outside of Phoenix meaning fewer crowds which is really nice. When you get there you pull into a parking lot off to the side, it may look unassuming at first but once you start climbing the steps the view gets better and better! At the top of the steps, there is a bench and a bigger resting place. You can stop here, take pictures and enjoy the view making it well worth the trip. However, for those wanting a little more, there are trails that lead up the mountain for more adventure and views!
Activity 3: Sliding Rock State park
Phoenix is great and has a lot to offer, but I found most of my favorite places were more north. Heading out of the city and north towards Sedona you will come across one of the best state parks, Sliding Rock State Park! There is a $5 entrance fee but it is well worth the price tag. This park is perfect for kids and adults alike, it’s called sliding rock because of the waterslide-like rocks you get to slide down into a giant pool of water. The main attraction is really swimming and sliding among the rocks, but if you so desire you can walk back down the river and explore more of what the canyon has to offer. We did that and if you are looking to have more space for yourself then that is what I would suggest you do too!
Day 2:
You can’t come to the northern part of the state without visiting Sedona, Arizona! This place appears on many people’s bucket lists and now I understand why. The glowing red rocks make you feel like you stepped onto another planet, plus there is more hiking here than anyone would even know what to do with!
Activity 4: The Devils Bridge
Devils Bridge would be the first hike I suggest. My tip along with this would be to get there as early as possible! Parking fills up fast and you would benefit from missing the crowds. We got there about 6 am and that seemed to be a perfect time. We got to hike before the heat of the day, got front row parking, and missed all the people who were heading up as we were heading down. Also, don’t forget to purchase a Red Rock pass from one of the kiosks around. This is all well worth the early morning wake-up and the views from the top!
activity 5: Cathedral rock
Now Cathedral Rock we did mid-day and the heat and crowds weren’t that bad. This hike isn’t so long as more vertical. This was really fun and for sure a challenge but there were many different turning points and you could easily hike to your comfort level. We decided to hike all the way to the top, there were some crazier parts (hence why we look a little freaked out/amazed in the first picture) but so worth it at the top! I don’t think you could take the littles to the top but there were still some cool views from the halfway mark!
Activity 6: Dome rock
Hiking Dome Rock would be one you can take the littles to! There is something for everyone here, it truly is a choose your own adventure. We decided yet again to hike to the top, perfect for those looking for a bit of an adrenalin rush. Yet if you have smaller kids there were plenty of families having a great time at the lower level of this multi-level rock. Up top, there is plenty of spots to take a squat and have a little lunch while enjoying the view from the side of a mountain!
Day 3:
activity 7: the grand canyon
You can’t visit the Grand Canyon state without visiting the actual Grand Canyon itself! If you keep driving north of Sedona you’ll run into the Grand Canyon. I know people who spend days here, I thought an afternoon was plenty. There are many picture-taking spots, hiking trails, and tourist info hubs. I won’t go into a ton of detail here as there are so many resources on this destination but I didn’t feel like I could mention a trip to Arizona without mentioning its greatest attraction!
Activity 8: Buffalo Park
This was one of my all-time favorite hidden gems in Arizona! When you visit the Grand Canyon you’re most likely to stay in Flagstaff, Arizona. While in Flagstaff there is a park I would suggest checking out around sunset. Buffalo Park made me feel like I got transported to Colorado or Wyoming. After all the desert landscape this was a nice break. They have a lot of easy trails here and plenty of spots to bring dinner along. This is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring, with the mountain views and the pine tree landscape. Furry friends are welcome here which is a plus as well. The sunsets from this park were unreal and we visited every night we stayed in Flagstaff!
activity 9: lowell observatory
When you need a break from the heat and hiking, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff is the way to go! They have all sorts of space-themed shows and activities, perfect for kids and adults. I would suggest getting there either as the sun is going down or right after to beat the crowds. This is the best place to go and see the stars while seeing a whole different side of Arizona! The tickets range from around $18 per person with different discounts available. While you are paying it is a great experience and something a bit different to explore!
CONCLUSION
Arizona has so much to offer any and every adventurer! I didn’t even get to the volcano parks, red rock tours, or drives you can do throughout Arizona. Where are your favorite places to visit in The Grand Canyon state? Have you been to the places I mentioned above? Feel free to let me know, I am always looking for new places to discover! I hope this list of destinations gave you some ideas for your next trip.
Until Next Time! – Olivia Grace❤️
Want more North American Adventure ideas? check out…
https://hiddengemtraveler.com/category/north-america/
for Tips, inspiration, and more follow below!
Leave a Reply