Arizona is a treasure trove of natural wonders with its diverse landscapes that range from the sun-soaked deserts of Phoenix to the red rock majesty of Sedona, the lush pine forests of Flagstaff, and the breathtaking beauty of Page. As 2025 approaches, it’s the perfect time to explore all the Grand Canyon State offers. Here are our top 5 places you must visit this year, and check out our recommended road trip itinerary!
#1 – Lower Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is known for its breathtaking photos of bright orange slot canyons formed from sandstone. Light shines in from overhead, creating light beams that highlight and reflect off the slot canyon walls. It’s a spectacular scene that you can’t miss! You do have to have a guide to tour Antelope Canyon to protect this natural wonder for generations to come. Book your tour with Ken’s Tours to learn about the geology of Lower Antelope Canyon, know the best spots for photography, and hear the significance of the canyon to the local Native tribes.
#2 – Grand Canyon National Park
Arizona is fortunate to be able to boast about having one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World! Grand Canyon National Park is a natural wonder that needs no introduction. The views, geological formations, and endless trails speak for themselves. Whether you’re looking into the canyon from nearly a mile up along the rim or exploring its depths and the rapids below, the Grand Canyon offers an unforgettable experience.
#3 – Sedona
Sedona is another iconic destination. With stunning red rocks, it’s famous for taking your breath away. One thing you might not know about Sedona is that some say it holds spiritual portals called Vortexes. Whether you’re interested in Sedona’s natural beauty or want to check out the Vortex, there’s something for everyone! Our recommended hikes are Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. If you want to get adventurous, you can take a Jeep tour to see the sights. Sedona is a bucket list adventure!
#4 – Monument Valley
Monument Valley is home to some of the most iconic landscapes in the world, made famous by countless films like Forrest Gump, Back to the Future III, National Lampoon’s Vacation, and How the West Was Won. To get immersed in the valley, you can take a guided tour from locals who will explain the cultural significance of Monument Valley to the Navajo people and learn more about the valley’s history and geology. The best times to visit Monument Valley are at sunrise or sunset, when the light transforms the sandstone formations into a stunning palette of golds, oranges, and reds.
#5 – Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is a desert oasis home to the towering and iconic saguaro cacti that are synonymous with the American Southwest. At Saguaro National Park, you’ll find a diverse ecosystem with unique plants and wildlife! Check out the park’s scenic drives, such as the Bajada Loop in the west or the Cactus Forest Drive in the east. Don’t forget to hike on trails like Valley View Overlook or the Signal Hill Trail, where you can spot ancient petroglyphs. How cool is that?
Road Trip Itinerary for Our Top 5 Arizona Destinations!
Check out our recommended Arizona road trip itinerary for 2025!
Day 1: Start in Phoenix
Must-See Stops:
- Desert Botanical Garden
- Papago Park (hike Hole-in-the-Rock)
- Dinner in Old Town Scottsdale
Overnight Stay: Phoenix
Day 2: Phoenix to Sedona (2 Hours)
Stops Along the Way:
- Montezuma Castle National Monument
- Bell Rock (short hike or scenic stop)
Activities in Sedona:
- Explore Uptown Sedona for shopping and dining
- Take a short hike, like Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock
- Sunset at Airport Mesa
Overnight Stay: Sedona
Day 3: Sedona to Grand Canyon National Park (2.5 Hours)
Stops Along the Way:
- Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
Flagstaff: Walk around historic downtown or visit Lowell Observatory
Activities in Grand Canyon:
- Explore the South Rim: Mather Point and Yavapai Geology Museum
- Short hike on the Rim Trail
Overnight Stay: Near Grand Canyon (Tusayan or Grand Canyon Village)
Day 4: Grand Canyon to Page (2.5 Hours)
Activities in Page:
Optional: Take a Lake Powell boat tour
Overnight Stay: Page
Day 5: Page to Monument Valley (2 Hours)
Stops Along the Way:
Activities in Monument Valley:
- Guided Navajo Jeep tour of Monument Valley
- Watch the sunset over the iconic Mittens
Overnight Stay: Monument Valley or nearby
Day 6: Monument Valley to Saguaro National Park (6 Hours)
Stops Along the Way:
- Petrified Forest National Park (optional detour)
- Tucson for dinner and a quick city exploration
Activities in Saguaro National Park:
- Sunset drive through the park’s scenic loop
Overnight Stay: Tucson
Day 7: Tucson to Phoenix (2 Hours)
Activities in Tucson:
- Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, blending a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum.
- Enjoy breakfast at a local café.
Return to Phoenix:
Relaxation or additional activities in the city before departure
Total Road Trip Duration: 7 Days
Distance: Approx. 900-1,000 miles, depending on optional detours
Best Time to Travel: Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Let This Be The Year You Finally See What Arizona Has To Offer!
It’s time to get this trip on the books! Secure your spot early to ensure a seamless experience, then map out the rest of your journey to discover the wonders of the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Sedona, and beyond.
Click here for tips on visiting Lower Antelope Canyon during winter or here for Fall visitor info.
With your itinerary set and your sense of adventure in tow, 2025 is the perfect year to hit the road and explore Arizona’s unforgettable landscapes. Happy travels!
