Discover Arizona
Discover the captivating beauty of Arizona, where breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and endless adventure await. From the iconic Grand Canyon to vibrant cities like Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona offers a unique blend of outdoor exploration, luxury, and relaxation. Experience the magic of the Southwest in this extraordinary destination.
Linkd Tourism represents Visit Arizona in Australia and New Zealand.
Discover Arizona Regions
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder that defies description. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its vast expanse stretches 445 km’s long and 1.6 km’s deep, revealing awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. Visitors can explore the canyon through a variety of activities, from hiking the famous Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails to enjoying scenic viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. For an unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour over the canyon or raft along the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon also offers unique cultural experiences, including visits to Native American tribes that have called this region home for centuries. Whether you're looking for adventure or peaceful reflection, the Grand Canyon provides a majestic backdrop for travelers seeking to connect with nature on a grand scale
Sedona
Sedona is renowned for its towering red rock formations that seem to glow in shades of crimson and orange at sunrise and sunset. Nestled between the Coconino National Forest and the Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can explore trails like Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Bell Rock, each offering panoramic views and opportunities for connecting with nature. Sedona is also known for its mystical energy vortexes, drawing spiritual seekers from around the world. Beyond outdoor adventure, Sedona’s vibrant arts community, with its galleries and shops, adds a cultural dimension to any visit. You’ll also find high-end resorts and wellness retreats that make it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you’re after exhilarating outdoor adventures or a tranquil wellness getaway, Sedona provides a magical desert escape.
Scottsdale
Scottsdale is synonymous with luxury and relaxation, offering an upscale desert experience unlike any other. Known for its world-class resorts and spas, Scottsdale is a destination where you can truly unwind and indulge. Visitors can pamper themselves with spa treatments, poolside lounging, and fine dining in the city's elegant hotels. Golfers flock to Scottsdale’s internationally renowned courses, like TPC Scottsdale, which hosts the annual PGA Tour Waste Management Phoenix Open. Scottsdale also has a vibrant arts scene, from contemporary galleries in the Old Town Arts District to public art installations along the Scottsdale Waterfront. The city's desert landscape serves as a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities, including hiking trails like Camelback Mountain and Pinnacle Peak. Scottsdale’s fusion of natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and exciting nightlife make it a prime destination for those seeking a sophisticated desert retreat.
Tucson
Tucson Tucson blends Old West charm with modern urban flair, creating a city steeped in history and culture. Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and desert landscapes. Outdoor lovers can explore Saguaro National Park, home to the iconic saguaro cacti, or hike Mount Lemmon, offering cooler temperatures and pine forests just an hour away. The city itself is a vibrant blend of cultures, reflected in its architecture, festivals, and cuisine. Tucson’s culinary scene has garnered international recognition, being named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy thanks to its fusion of Native American, Mexican, and Western flavours. The historic districts of Barrio Viejo and the Presidio are perfect for exploring Tucson's past, with colourful adobe houses and centuries-old landmarks. Whether you're interested in history, food, or nature, Tucson is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic Southwestern experience.
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is an otherworldly landscape that has captivated travellers, filmmakers, and photographers for decades. Its vast, open desert is dotted with towering sandstone buttes and mesas, each rising dramatically from the valley floor. Located within the Navajo Nation, Monument Valley holds great cultural and spiritual significance for the Navajo people. Visitors can take guided tours led by Navajo guides, who share the stories and legends of the land, adding a deeper understanding of its history. The famous Valley Drive, a 17-mile dirt road, offers scenic views of iconic formations like the Mittens and Merrick Butte. For a more immersive experience, consider taking a horseback tour or spending the night at a nearby hotel to witness the valley at sunrise or sunset when the landscape glows with a warm, ethereal light. Monument Valley is more than just a visual spectacle—it's a journey into the heart of the American West.
Lake Powell & Antelope Canyon
Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon offer a unique combination of water-based adventure and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Located on the Arizona-Utah border, Lake Powell is a vast reservoir surrounded by red rock canyons, creating a striking contrast between the blue waters and the desert landscape. Boating, kayaking, and jet skiing are popular ways to explore the lake's hundreds of miles of shoreline, with hidden coves and secluded beaches to discover. Just a short drive from Lake Powell is Antelope Canyon, one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. With its narrow, winding passageways carved by centuries of erosion, Antelope Canyon offers a mesmerizing play of light and shadow, creating waves of colour along the canyon walls. Guided tours take visitors through the Upper and Lower sections of the canyon, providing insight into its geological formation and cultural significance. Together, Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon offer an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Arizona FAQs
Arizona is located in the southwestern region of the United States, bordered by California to the west, Nevada and Utah to the north, New Mexico to the east, and Mexico to the south. It is known for its desert landscapes and the Grand Canyon.
The best time to visit Arizona is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild and pleasant. Summer (June to August) can be hot, especially in desert areas, while winter (December to February) offers cooler temperatures and is ideal for visiting northern regions.
The best way to travel from Australia to Arizona is by flying into major airports like Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) or Tucson International Airport (TUS). Direct flights are not available, so connecting flights via major U.S. hubs like Los Angeles, San Francisco or Dallas are necessary, with total travel time around 18-22 hours.
To get around Arizona, renting a car is highly recommended due to the state’s expansive landscapes and attractions spread out over large distances. In cities like Phoenix and Tucson, public transport options like buses and light rail are available, but a car is the most convenient for exploring natural sites.
In Arizona, must-dos include visiting the Grand Canyon, exploring Sedona’s red rock formations, and enjoying the historic town of Tombstone. Don’t miss the vibrant cultural scene in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson, the scenic beauty of Monument Valley, and the natural wonders of Saguaro National Park.
Arizona covers approximately 113,990 square miles (295,234 square kilometres), making it the 6th largest state in the USA. Its large size accommodates a variety of landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and canyons, offering diverse experiences for travellers.
Arizona’s main airports include Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), which serves as the largest and busiest airport, and Tucson International Airport (TUS). Both airports offer a range of domestic and international flights, providing convenient entry points for exploring the state.
A recommended stay in Arizona is around 7 days, allowing time to visit key attractions like the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Monument Valley. This timeframe also provides an opportunity to explore the cities of Phoenix and Tucson, as well as enjoy outdoor activities in the state’s diverse landscapes.
In Arizona, tipping practices are similar to other U.S. states. It’s customary to leave a tip of 15-20% in restaurants. For hotel services, tip $1-$2 per bag to porters and $1-$5 per night for housekeeping. Taxi drivers should receive 10-15% of the fare, and small tips are appreciated for other services.
For more information about Arizona, contact the Arizona Office of Tourism or visit their official website for detailed travel information. Local tourist information centres in cities like Phoenix and Tucson can also provide assistance. Travel agencies with expertise in Arizona can offer personalised advice and support or reach out to our team in Australia at [email protected].
Visitor Guides
Click on the images below to view the Arizona visitor guides online.
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Itineraries
Arizona is home to dozens of noteworthy roads, byways, and historic loops that make your window feel like a movie screen. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks to holiday in Arizona, we have the perfect itinerary for you. Follow some of these multi-day Arizona road trips and choose your own adventure!
To view more Arizona road trip recommendations, check out the Visit Arizona official website here at https://www.visitarizona.com/plan/road-trips/. Most Australian and New Zealand based wholesalers and tour providers have great Arizona touring and self-guided packages available or they can help you create any of the options found on the link above.
Discover a range of multi-state itineraries featuring Arizona including:
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Webinar
Come on a journey with us as we explore the true A-Z of the Grand Canyon State, AZ. Over this four-part series you will have the chance to learn incredible facts and experiences to be had in AZ from letters of the alphabet A through to Z.
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Recent Press Releases
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Media Library
This library of high-resolution photos is available for promoting Arizona as a leisure destination or in a news story. The Visit Arizona must be credited.
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