Northern Arizona, AZ

Travel Guide

Meteor Crater showing tranquil scenes and desert views as well as a small group of people
Horseshoe Bend which includes desert views, a gorge or canyon and tranquil scenes
Horseshoe Bend featuring boating and a lake or waterhole
Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona

Head to the northern reaches of Arizona to find the state at its most iconic, where breathtaking landmarks seem to lie around almost every corner.

Most of Arizona’s most celebrated attractions can be found in the spectacular region of Northern Arizona. Journey between legendary destinations such as the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, stopping to gaze in awe at these famously spectacular landscapes. Look beyond the big hitters of the state to find thrilling ski resorts, cities exuding a laid-back charm and unusual natural phenomena.

Stand in awe of a landscape that has been inhabited for millennia by American Indian nations such as the Navajo and Hopi. Attractions such as the Hopi Cultural Center and the Explore Navajo Interactive Museum are packed with displays that shed light on the cultures that have shaped the region.

Grand Canyon National Park is the first stop on many Northern Arizona itineraries and with good reason. The vast gorges and cliffs never fail to impress and are particularly impressive at sunrise. Busy South Rim comes with a visitor center, glass-bottomed viewing platform and several restaurants. Choose quieter, mountainous North Rim for a sense of seclusion when gazing out across the canyon.

Drive through cinematic Monument Valley, the setting of classic westerns such as The Searchers and Stagecoach. Stop by the visitor center in Kayenta to learn about the history of this Navajo land.

Look beyond these two popular natural landmarks to find other stunning destinations. The curved slot gorges of Antelope Canyon promise mesmerizing scenery as you hike. Petrified Forest National Park is covered in fossilized wood in dozens of different colors.

Relax in the mountain city of Flagstaff, where you can gaze at stars in the Lowell Observatory and explore historic homes such as the Riordan Mansion. Come back in winter for skiing in the alpine slopes that surround the city.

Fly to Las Vegas, in Nevada, then drive east for quick access to Northern Arizona. The region offers attractions throughout the year. Visit in winter for snow sports in the mountains. The Grand Canyon is at its warmest and busiest in summer, but can equally be visited in the quieter months of spring and fall.

Where to stay in Northern Arizona

Coffee Pot featuring a small town or village, views and a gorge or canyon

West Sedona

4.5/5(1,928 area reviews)

Bask in the glow of red sandstone formations while exploring numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. Discover the unique turquoise-arched McDonald's and the awe-inspiring Chapel of the Holy Cross, nestled within a red rock cliff.

West Sedona
Sedona featuring landscape views and mountains

Uptown Sedona

4.5/5(633 area reviews)

The stunning river views and popular shops are just a few highlights of Uptown Sedona. Make a stop by Sedona Arts Center or Gallery Row while you're exploring the area.

Uptown Sedona
North Central Arizona showing signage

Downtown Flagstaff

4.5/5(40 area reviews)

Downtown Flagstaff boasts a vibrant culture with historic buildings housing independent stores, cafés, and popular venues like the Weatherford Hotel. Explore prominent sights such as Heritage Square and the Orpheum Theater.

Downtown Flagstaff
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Christopher Creek

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Christopher Creek and surrounding area, you can visit Woods Canyon Lake and Rocky Point Recreation Area.

Christopher Creek
Chapel of the Holy Cross

Chapel

While visiting Chapel, you might make a stop by sights like Chapel of the Holy Cross and Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village.

Chapel
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Torreon

5/5(1 area review)

While Torreon isn't home to many top sights, Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area and Show Low Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Torreon

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Cities near Northern Arizona