Arizona has a rich and vivid landscape waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers. This state of the United States is ideal for outdoor fanatics that look for beautiful landscapes and a very varied natural scenery. It is known by some as a “Natural amusement Park” where man made lakes, Old Western towns, dude ranches, wildlife parks, and exotic habitats await those who stay at Arizona vacation rentals.
Besides its beautiful nature, staying at an Arizona vacation rental also offers the chance to discover and explore Native American Cultures and taste delicious regional cuisine.
The first place you should go while in Arizona is the Grand Canyon. Visiting Arizona and not going to the Grand Canyon could be considered as not visiting Arizona at all. A place unlike any other in the world, the Grand Canyon is one of the landmarks that define the state’s stereotype. This breath taking wonder provides an unforgettable view that will mark your life forever. And I am not exaggerating!
If after visiting the Grand Canyon you are up to some outdoor exploring, then you will love Arizona’s bright sunshine. The state’s great weather allows travelers to do fishing, sailing, swimming and climbing. You will be able to get a close up view of the exotic animal species and plants while enjoying one of these outdoor sports.
Another quality of the state is its scenic roads. If you are a nature fanatic and enjoy taking the off the beaten path then you will love Arizona. The state has some of the most beautiful and scenic roads you will ever see, offering travelers in search for the authentic and unusual, a unique experience.
Culture is also a big part of an Arizona vacation. A mixture of the past and the present makes Arizona a crossroad of culture and heritage. Art lovers will enjoy the architecture and indigenous designs as well as at the numerous art galleries found all over the place.
Arizona also offers great cities. Scottsdale for example is a premier resort destination full of attractions, beautiful landscapes, outdoor entertainment opportunities and AZ vacation rentals.
Another city worth visiting while in Arizona is Phoenix. This vibrant city is home to excellent museums, verdant botanical gardens and mountain preserves. You can also enjoy city art walks and incredible scenic drives among other attractions.
If you are visiting Phoenix with kids make sure to stop by the city’s zoo. One of the youngest zoos in the country, Phoenix Zoo is a great family place featuring 125 acres of land with 2.5 miles of walking trails. The Zoo has about 1,200 animals on exhibit including mammals, fish, invertebrates, birds and reptiles. Guests can also participate in many kinds of family programs organized by the Zoo.
The Heard Museum is another of Phoenix well known attractions. With its more than 32,000 pieces of cultural and fine art, the Heard Museum features permanent exhibits as well as special temporary ones. Some of the special events organized by the museum include the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest held every February and the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market each March.
If you want a nature encounter while visiting Phoenix then head to the South Mountain Park. Located in 16,000 acres of land, the South Mountain Park and Preserve is considered the largest municipal park in the country. 50 miles of trails create a perfect setting for mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. The highest point of the park, Dobbins Lookout is located at 2,300 feet and is easily accessible by trail.
Another must in your list of things to do while in Phoenix is the Rawhide Western Town. This popular attraction includes desert train rides, camel rides, petting ranch, rock climbing and gold panning. Guests can also participate in a shotgun wedding and eat at the Steakhouse Saloon, attractions are simply infinite.
Finally if you like film and movies then head to Sedona. This Arizona destination hosts the Sedona International Film Festival, a great alternative plan to spend your time in Arizona. This five-day festival gathers filmmakers and audiences from all over the world every year featuring foreign movies, shorts, and animation and student films. Those staying at a Sedona vacation rental can also participate in the festival workshop founded by Academy Award winner Frank Warner.
Other popular Sedona attraction is the Montezuma Castle National Monument.
Nestled into a towering limestone cliff, Montezuma Castle is a 20-room high-rise apartment which tells a 1,000 year-old story of survival in an unforgiving desert landscape. You will also find the Montezuma Well, a unique geologic feature located 11 miles from the Castle. This nature’s treasure is home to many animal species found nowhere else on the planet, pueblo ruins, pre-historic Sinaugan cliff dwellings and a 1,000 year-old ditch.
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