Arizona is a hotspot for health and wellness for its many spas and state parks. You’ll feel one with nature as Arizona is made up of four deserts and several mountain ranges with paved and unpaved hiking trails to immerse you in nature.
The Grand Canyon is the main attraction in Arizona, but there are many other impeccable views worth a day trip, like Lake Havasu, Lake Powell, and the striking Saguaro National Park, with adventurous outdoor activities like kayaking and boating.
With over a hundred wineries and dozens of craft breweries, there is a good time waiting to happen around every corner. But at ResortPass, we’re fans of spending your time in Arizona laying by the pool or indulging in a spa day.
Let’s dive into the best things to do in Arizona:
1. Laying by the Pool in the Sonoran Desert
One of the hottest deserts in America is the Sonoran Desert, extending into parts of California and Mexico. Its dry and hot climate makes it a year-round destination to lay by the pool and take in the natural scenery. People come from all over the world to experience desert life and to snap pictures of the native Saguaro cactus.
Tucson
One of the oldest settlements in America is Tucson. Its desert and mountainous landscape make it an ideal city for mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. The nearby University of Arizona gives the city a thriving nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants to let loose.
In Downtown Tucson you’ll uncover historical and culturally significant places and impressive architecture like the ??Garcés Footbridge and Historic Gazebo.
The family-friendly is an oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, with fun for the whole family. This resort features a multi-level swimming pool and a winding lazy river with a swerving waterslide to keep you cool beneath the desert sun — just don’t forget to reapply that sunscreen!
The spa features a eucalyptus steam room, a complimentary sachet and aromatherapy blending bar, and saline pools for deeper relaxation. Break a sweat with a fitness class and recover in the relaxation room with a tasty meal from In-Room Dining.
Phoenix
Arizona’s state capitol, Phoenix, is best known for its year-round sunshine and picture-perfect landscape view of the desert. The Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, and the Musical Instrument Museum are a crowd favorite to visit. In Downtown Phoenix, you’ll find pubs, pizzerias, and Diamondback fans.
Waterpark adventure awaits at . Choose from three luxurious outdoor heated swimming pools to splash around in. Ride the twisting waterslides if you dare, or hang on an inner tube along the expansive lazy river.
The kids will love the splash pad, and you’ll love the blended drinks from Just A Splash Bar & Grill. For the royal treatment, book a cabana or spa pass with ResortPass.
A cabana pass will set you up with a dedicated server, misting fan, television, and soft seating for up to six people. A spa pass will give you access to the hot tub, relaxation lounge, and spa treatment options. The amenities are truly endless.
2. Relax in an Arizona Spa
Treat yourself to a much-needed self-care day. Indulge in modern saunas and custom massage treatments to elevate your resort daycation.
Arizona is a haven for reconnecting with yourself because of its vast desert scenery. Immersing yourself in nature can have a calming effect on your mind and body, helping you feel revived.
Scottsdale
Where The Wild West meets the urban town, Scottsdale is a charming city with many restaurants to try and art galleries to tour. Old Town Scottsdale has a lively nightlife scene, so the fun times keep rolling even after the sun goes down.
is a rustic southwest-style resort with modern amenities, situated west of Phoenix. It is surrounded by palm trees, cacti, and Camelback Mountain.
The sunsets over the waterfall outdoor pool are breathtaking. Book a curtained cabana to laze on a soft bed with plush pillows and be spoiled by a dedicated server. The little ones will love the kiddie pool while the adults reserve a luxurious spa treatment. Access the state-of-the-art saunas, steam rooms, and fitness facilities for additional self-care.
Sedona
Sedona is a hidden gem known for spirituality and creativity. The buttes and towers of red rock formations that peak up out of the desert are thought to have positive, stimulating effects on those you take in their unique red-orange color.
You can easily take a road trip to Arizona’s famous parks, which are two hours from the Grand Canyon and three hours from Antelope Canyon.
Rejuvenate your mind and body at L’Auberge de Sedona. This resort ties in its natural surroundings with its elegant decor and amenities. Dine on delectable southern French cuisine along the soothing Oak Creek and Sycamore trees.
The outdoor pool is perfect for escaping the desert heat and the shaded lounge chairs are great for taking in the scenery. The Spa has specially designed massages and treatments aimed at healing and relieving stress. A simple stroll through this resort’s grounds will have you feeling zen already.
Flagstaff
Across the Slide Rock State Park from Sedona in the San Francisco Volcanic Field at 7,000 feet is the city of Flagstaff. Unlike other parts of Arizona, the climate in Flagstaff is cooler summers and often snowy winters. Fun things to do in Flagstaff is explore its galleries, bars, and historic sites like the historic Route 66.
Nestled in Arizona’s northern mountains is the High Country Motor Lodge a boutique retreat that features a unique Nordic Spa experience. The dim lighting and moody style of this retreat give off an inviting cozy vibe for you to snuggle by the fire.
The Nordic Spa experience begins with a session in a private sauna, a cool shower, and complimentary electrolytes. Enhance your session by bracing a dip in the cold plunge pool. A private changing area, robes and slippers, and a fire pit are also included for serene relaxation.
Enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool before a lush mountain view backdrop. Once you’re feeling renewed, head to the General Store to discover some of the best pizza you’ve ever had.
3. Sightsee in Nature
The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon National Park offers many outdoor activities and a view so grand you’ll hardly believe it’s real. Carved by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is the most sought after site on Earth as it’s considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
At the national park’s visitor center, you’ll find different ways to encounter the Grand Canyon, like a guided mule ride along the North rim and rafting on the Colorado River. The South Rim is where you can have your photo taken at the most iconic view of the Grand Canyon. However, the best view of the Grand Canyon might be seen from a wondrous trip on a hot air balloon.
The Petrified Forest
The Petrified Forest National Park is a dinosaur graveyard with fossils dating back millions of years ago. In the park, you come across interesting dark wood called petrified wood, which was formed over hundreds of thousands of years.
Have some fun in the Petrified Forest with your pets and family by hitting the hiking trails or camping beneath the stars. The kids will love playing paleontologist at the Musuem Demonstration Lab in the park.
Monument Valley
Stradling the border between Arizona and Utah is the Monument Valley, home to the Navajo Nation. The distinct deep red and rust-colored mesas and buttes are colors you won’t see outside of nature. You may recognize this park as it’s been featured in many Hollywood films, from classic Westerns to Forrest Gump.
A great way to see Monument Valley is to drive the Tribal Park Loop, a 17-mile scenic loop that starts at the visitor center, where you can purchase souvenirs and lunch at the lodge restaurant. On the scenic drive, you can stop to roam freely or hop on short mesas for memorable photos.
Tour Arizona With ResortPass
To sum up, Arizona has a special natural landscape that can’t be experienced anywhere else in the United States. It’s not just for health and wellness. Arizona has bustling cities with trendy restaurants, bars, and venues where you can catch professional sports games and live shows.
In the desert, you’ll find peace and encounter native wildlife. You’ll break a sweat with endless outdoor activities, then recharge at the nearest desert oasis with top-rated spa and pool amenities and world-class service.
Visit Arizona with ResortPass to choose from the best hotels, resorts, and spas to spend a daycation between sightseeing. On ResortPass you can find the closest hotels to your favorite nature site.
Book a day pass in two easy steps by selecting your city and purchasing your preferred amenities. Don’t wait to see the best Arizona has to offer by downloading the ResortPass App today.
