Here Is the Ultimate Guide for a First-Timer Visiting Arizona

The cacti-studded land of Arizona has definitely shown its rapid growth from being a home to merely 200,000, and now to more than seven million today. That might present a question on your head, why do people want to move to this state so much if the people here experience intense heat, and face many scary critters and snakes? Well, it doesn’t matter if it’s your first time in Arizona, or if you’re simply curious why the state seems too good for words. We are here to give you the ultimate guide so you can enjoy your best life yet in the Grand Canyon state!

By the time you finish this article, we’re sure you’d want nothing more than to explore this beautiful land.

You Better Do These Activities If It’s Your First Time in Arizona:

Catch the Stunning Sunset at Hole-In-The-Rock

Where: Phoenix

Source: Reddit

No matter where you are in this world, you can’t deny that the beauty of nature definitely makes itself known with the help of a setting sun. For some reason, it just enhances the environment or place you’re at, giving a dramatic effect that will leave you speechless. If it’s your first time in Arizona, you better spend a day exploring Papago Park and seeing the sunset through its famous Hole-in-the-Rock. Hole-in-the-Rock is a naturally-formed opening in the red butte, and a famous tourist attraction.

Don’t worry. The hike up to this natural geological formation is worth it. You only need to look at the photos to understand why.

Be in Awe of the Fountain at Fountain Hills

Where: Fountain Hills

Source: Sonoran Lifestyle

If you’re going to a place like Fountain Hills, it only makes sense that one of the most visited sights there is a fountain. Of course, leave it to this town to take impressive fountains to a whole new level. This place is famous for its fountain, once the tallest in the world, that reaches a height of 330 feet. When all three pumps and under ideal conditions, the spray cranks up to 560 feet. It’s reserved for the most special occasions such as the Fourth of July. Still, the 330-feet fountain is already captivating.

The world-famous fountain runs for 15 minutes every hour from 9 am to 9 pm every day. Now, all that’s left for you to do is to be there so you can experience the viewing pleasure.

Check out the Musical Instrument Museum

Where: Phoenix

Source: Musical Instrument Museum

What’s all the hype about this museum? Is it really a place you should go to if it’s your first time in Arizona? To answer your first question, the Musical Instrument Museum is one of the top museums in the United States for a good reason: musical instruments overload! And yes, it’s worth visiting not just for first-timers, but even for residents! The museum boasts more than 7,000 instruments from around 200 countries. How cool is that? In addition, you can also explore galleries that feature popstar instruments memorabilia, such as that of Taylor Swift and Johnny Cash.

You should also regularly check out their website to know the upcoming interactive exhibits, as well as schedule of special events. Or if you’re in the mood to check out something else, you can also take your pick from the free museums in Phoenix.

Nourish Your Soul and Find Peace at Sedona’s Vortex Spots

Where: Sedona

Source: Instagram

This may not be your first time hearing it. Yes, the vortex spots in Arizona will leave you in a state of zen and peace. This place is famous for being a place of enlightenment, and as a place with a healing heart. In fact, a large group of healers and spiritual practitioners flock here to personally experience the powerful energy from the vortex spots. Keep in mind the top 3 spots: Boynton Canyon, Bell Rock, and Airport Mesa. Look for a hiking partner and feel the burst of peaceful energy after a tiring climb. It’s a life-changing experience.

Another interesting fact about Sedona is that they also have this crazy and extremely dangerous bike trail that can only be traversed by bike experts.

Witness the Wildflowers Bloom Like Crazy at Peridot Mesa

Where: San Carlos

Source: Instagram

Imagine seeing dots of bright and vibrant yellows and oranges as far as your eyes can see. Don’t you think it’s magical? Don’t waste even a second of your time, and just come visit Peridot Mesa if you’re crazy about flowers. Visiting will give you a memorable wildflower viewing experience you can’t get anywhere. While you need to wait for the wildflower season (from late February through early April) to see the flowers in full bloom, looking at the field ablaze with color will more than make up for the long wait.

Play Golf in World-Class Golf Courses

Where: Various locations

Source: Instagram

If you think Arizona is a big chunk of land, well, maybe you’re right. The state is full of world-class golf courses that would make any golfer fall in love. You only need to look at the luxurious and internationally acclaimed Estancia Club, which earned a lot of accolades over the years. Of course, there are many other esteemed golf clubs including Forest Highlands Golf Club, Troon North, Whisper Rock Golf Club, and more! Or if you want to play golf but have no prior experience, you can just give Topgolf Tucson Marana a visit. There’s no way you’d get bored out of your mind in Arizona. The state has nearly 200 golf destinations, and you bet it’s only going to grow!

Float Your Worries Away at Salt River

Where: Mesa

Source: Instagram

This activity is a real winner, and it’s definitely ideal if it’s your first time in Arizona. Salt River is easily Arizona’s most popular tubing destination, offering not just a fun activity, but also a cool and serene experience. There are many different tubing trips available, ranging from two, three or five-hour trips. If you’ve got the whole day, that’s great! That means you can enjoy a relaxing floating picnic and beat the heat with your family and friends. It’s not all bad that the activity only costs $17 per person/tube, too.

Explore the Great Outdoors by Hiking Camelback Mountain

Where: Phoenix & Paradise Valley

Source: Instagram

Hiking is definitely one of the greatest activities you can do in a wonderland such as Arizona. And if you’re in Phoenix, you only need to ask one local to hear the recommendation to climb Camelback Mountain. This mountain is a popular hike because it’s conveniently located in the middle of the Phoenix Valley and is only 20 minutes from downtown. The mountain also resembles a kneeling camel’s hump and head when you look at it from afar. There are about 450,000 people who climb the mountain. That is proof that this is too good of a destination for you to leave it out of your itinerary. The incredible views from the top will be worth it, we promise! Since it’s your first time in Arizona, you can also check out hiking guides online to learn more about the experience.

See the Popular Wonder of the World, the Grand Canyon

Where: Northwest Arizona

Source: Instagram

You’re in the Grand Canyon State, so there’s no way you’re leaving without first visiting the famous Grand Canyon. This activity pretty much goes without saying. Be in awe of the stunning site formed by the Colorado River millions of years ago. The canyon is vast, so there are a lot of ways to explore this natural beauty. Take an aerial tour, view it from the Skywalk, or hike down to the canyon. No matter what option you choose, the result is pretty much the same. You will love Arizona even more.

Now that you’ve read this guide, it’s time to start planning your vacation to the best state ever (can we get a hear, hear?)! Since you’re here, you might want to check out the 12 Things People Who Visit Arizona Will Always Find Fascinating. We also have an article on 6 Arizona Day Trips to Explore the Best the State Has to Offer.