3 minute read
Only in Arizona
Looking for something unique to do in Arizona? Here are eight attractions and destinations you can only experience and visit while in the Valley of the Sun. Find a range of historical sites, cultural and art exhibits, local cuisine and endless ways to explore Arizona’s expansive and varied landscape.
By Maya Leachman
Go on a ghost town tour
With thousands of abandoned mines and an estimated 200 to 300 ghost towns, Arizona is filled with historical and spooky sites. Scattered throughout the state, there are many ghost towns to choose from — from the more well known towns of Jerome and Bisbee, to lesser known towns, such as Tip Top and Kentucky Camp. Some of these towns are currently populated, while others remain abandoned. Step back in time by exploring on your own or through a guided tour.
visitarizona.com
Visit Willcox Wine Country
Willcox is Arizona’s wine country. Located in the southeast region of the state, the area grows 74 percent of Arizona’s wine grapes due to a unique combination of elevation, climate and soil. With 14 partner and associate wineries making up Willcox Wine Country, there are many locally grown and produced wine options to choose from. Make it a day trip to visit one of the many tasting rooms, or stay in a local hotel or bed and breakfast to explore more.
willcoxwinecountry.org
Old Town Scottsdale and Fashion Square
Historic Old Town is a walkable district in Scottsdale known for its array of local shops that can be enjoyed year-round due to cooperative weather. Visit trading posts, antique shops, clothing stores or the Native Art Market for unique items made by local indigenous artisans. The area also offers an abundance of bars, restaurants and tap rooms to wind down after a long day. Round out your Scottsdale experience by splurging at Fashion Square, the Southwest’s largest retail destination.
experiencescottsdale.com
Sedona visitor spots and restaurants
Find endless adventures among Sedona’s high mesas and rocky cliffs. The iconic red rocks of Sedona offer opportunities for horseback riding, climbing, fishing, golfing and outdoor recreation. Stay at one of the area’s scenic resorts, bed and breakfasts or cabins offering stunning red-rock views. Stop in shops filled with unique gifts of jewelry, antiques, collectibles and Native American art and before you leave, try a dish at one of Dahl Restaurant Group’s many restaurants, serving anything you might crave, including burgers, pizza and Italian or Latin American cuisine.
visitsedona.com
Roosevelt Row
Sedona Flagstaff
Williams Scottsdale
Museums in Phoenix
Discover history at a center of art and culture in downtown Phoenix by exploring one of its many museums. The Musical Instrument Museum offers a collection of more than 8,000 instruments from more than 200 world countries. The Heard Museum offers award-winning exhibits dedicated to American Indian art year-round. Other notable museums include the Phoenix Art Museum, which has offered contemporary and historical works of art for over 60 years.
visitphoenix.com
Roosevelt Row/Arts District
While visiting downtown Phoenix, visitors can explore Roosevelt Row, a walkable arts district filled with award-winning galleries and impressive murals. This district in Phoenix is also home to restaurants, bars and boutique shops in a landscape dotted by colorful street art. Find the 1½ Street Mural Project next to The Churchill, a nine-story installation of civil rights activist James Baldwin on Central Ave., the Prince Tribute on the side of Rodriguez Boxing Gym and more murals throughout the area.
rooseveltrow.org
Downtown Tucson
Visit one of the six historical downtown districts in Tucson to experience the city’s casual Southwestern atmosphere. Visitors can explore Tucson’s many attractions, including the Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, the Reid Park Zoo and the Tucson Museum of Art. Downtown Tucson offers a unique dining experience that reflects the culture of the Sonoran Desert. While in Tucson, make sure to visit Biosphere 2, a unique scientific facility where visitors can learn about Earth through an interactive tour.
visittucson.org
Adventures in Flagstaff
Surrounded by the largest contiguous emerald green ponderosa pine forest in the United States, Flagstaff is filled with endless adventures for the outdoor enthusiast in all seasons. Explore mountain bike trails or stroll through Flagstaff’s historic downtown, stopping at a local brewery on the Flagstaff-Grand Canyon Ale Trail. Flagstaff is also home to the Lowell Observatory, an astronomical research center where visitors can enjoy stargazing in the world’s first “International Dark Sky City.”
