7 Spots in Arizona We’re Especially Thankful for This Year

Gratitude isn't just for the Thanksgiving season—there are so many reasons why we can be grateful for Arizona year-round! Among the things to love are endless amounts of sunshine, the mountains, desert, lakes, and rivers, our small towns and big cities, and a wide variety of outdoor activities. I also love living in Arizona for its lifestyle, people, and all the amenities, as well as both man-made and natural attractions. Here are just a few of the best places to visit in Arizona that we can be thankful for this year:

1. Arizona State Parks

The best way to experience Arizona's diverse landscapes is by visiting its 33 state parks. Not only do these preserved outdoor spaces encourage residents and visitors alike to get outside for fresh air and to enjoy nature, but also to engage in sustainable outdoor recreation. Of the 33 parks, 15 offer camping, eight are for day use only, eight preserve historical sites, and one is a memorial park. Many parks offer ranger- and volunteer-led programs throughout the year, such as First Day Hikes, birdwatching, nature programs, and concert series. Check out the Ultimate Guide to Arizona State Parks to start planning your next outdoor adventures, and check out the AZ State Parks & Trails website for fees, program information, and to purchase an annual state parks pass!

2. Grand Canyon National Park

People from all over the world flock to Arizona each year to get a glimpse of the Grand Canyon, one of the world's seven natural wonders. The remarkable Grand Canyon National Park receives nearly 5 million visitors annually, making it one of the top tourist attractions in the state. My favorite way to get here is via a scenic train ride aboard the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams. Not only is this a fun, family-friendly adventure, but it is also one of the most unique ways to travel if you don't feel like taking a road trip to the Grand Canyon.

3. Historic Route 66

Stretching 382 miles, Arizona is home to the longest preserved stretch of the Mother Road, and that is something I am truly grateful for! I love the old Route 66 towns, with their classic cars lining the roads, old diners, retro motels, and the nostalgic vibe. It makes me wish I could travel back in time to when life was simpler, and taking a road trip along this route was an epic adventure. One town I visit on repeat is Williams—I love strolling down its walkable stretch of Route 66, popping into tourist shops, and dining at local establishments like Pine Country Restaurant or Rulu's 66 Bar and Grill. I've even stayed at a renovated Route 66 motel called the Trailborn Grand Canyon, and I recommend it for its comfortable rooms and retro-chic vibes.

4. Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory, situated in the Dark Sky Community of Flagstaff, is one of the oldest observatories in the country. Established in 1894, it remains a place of research, learning, and teaching, and it was here that the discovery of Pluto was made in 1930. Visiting the Lowell Observatory is a must when visiting Flagstaff. Not only can you learn about the cosmos from its museum, but you can also see the telescope that made one of the most remarkable discoveries in our solar system.

5. Desert Botanical Garden

One of the most beautiful spots in the Phoenix area is the Desert Botanical Garden. Located next to the Phoenix Zoo, this stunning outdoor museum of plants and trees is a sight to behold. Before visiting for the first time, I had no idea about the diversity of plants growing in the desert—thousands of cactus, flowers, and trees thrive in a desert environment! While the botanical garden is open year-round, my favorite time to visit is during the holiday season when it hosts the annual Las Noches de las Luminarias featuring thousands of twinkling lights and lighted displays, seasonal treats, music, and overall merriment. Visit the Desert Botanical Gardens website for tickets.

6. Sedona

I could visit Sedona a thousand times and still be in awe of its beauty. Honestly, I still can't believe that a place this stunning exists in Arizona! Sure, the Grand Canyon is utterly spectacular, but there's just this magic about Sedona that's just so palpable that it sticks with me. While most of my trips here have been just for a day, I've been fortunate enough to spend the night several times. My favorite place is Amara Resort and Spa, located in the heart of Sedona's downtown area, yet set far enough back from the road along the banks of Oak Creek that it feels far removed from the tourist crowds.

7. Arizona's Dark Sky Places

Did you know that Arizona is home to 20 International Dark Sky Places? Chances are that you don't live too far from one! Flagstaff became the world's first Dark Sky Place in 2001, and since then, several communities across the state, including Fountain Hills, Bisbee, and Camp Verde, have joined it. Additionally, many of our parks, such as Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Saguaro National Parks, as well as Oracle and Kartchner Caverns State Parks, also have a dark sky designation. Because of these dark sky places, we can see and learn about the night sky in ways we never thought possible while living in an area with light pollution.

It's hard not to express gratitude when you live in a state as beautiful as Arizona. What are some of your favorite spots you are most grateful for? Please nominate your picks!

Plan your own Arizona bucket list adventure with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.