Arizona’s 13 Best Things to Do in 2025 for Young Adults

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Real talk—Arizona completely surprised me. When I first stood at the edge of the Grand Canyon, I actually forgot to breathe for a second (it’s that insane!). This state has way more than just desert and cacti, though watching the sunset light up Sedona’s red rocks was probably one of the coolest moments of my life.

Listen, I found so many amazing things to do in Arizona that I had to keep extending my trip. From swimming under waterfalls at Havasu Falls (yes, they’re actually that blue) to wandering through Antelope Canyon with my jaw on the floor, this state is wild in the best way possible. Get ready, because these spots seriously changed my view of the American Southwest.

Top Must-See Places in Arizona for Young Adults

Visiting Arizona? Marvel at the breathtaking Grand Canyon, explore the stunning formations of Antelope Canyon, or enjoy the charm of Prescott. Hike through Sedona’s red rocks for unforgettable views and adventure. Whether you’re into natural wonders, outdoor activities, or scenic getaways, Arizona has plenty to offer!

1. Conquer the Grand Canyon

Standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon is a moment that stops you in your tracks. Whether you visit Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim or venture to the quieter North Rim, the views are staggering. For a real challenge, try the South Kaibab Trail down to Skeleton Point—a 6-mile round-trip hike with sweeping vistas and very little shade, so plan accordingly. If you’re looking to splurge, helicopter tours from Tusayan give you a bird’s-eye view you won’t forget.

On my visit, I joined a half-day rafting trip on the Colorado River and was blown away by the contrast between the roaring rapids and the sheer silence of the canyon walls. You don’t need to hike all the way down to appreciate the magic. Whether you walk along Bright Angel Trail or catch sunrise from Yaki Point, the canyon delivers unforgettable moments in every direction.

2. Explore Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon near Page is one of those places that doesn’t look real until you see it in person. With its wave-like sandstone walls and light beams streaming from above, it feels like walking through a natural sculpture gallery. There are two main sections—Upper Antelope Canyon, which is wider and known for dramatic shafts of sunlight, and Lower Antelope Canyon, which is a bit more adventurous with stairs and narrow turns.

We joined a guided experience through Antelope Canyon Tours, and the mix of geology, history, and Navajo culture added so much to the visit. The tour lasted just over an hour, but we took what felt like a hundred photos. It’s best to book in advance since slots fill up quickly, especially midday. Whether you’re here to shoot photos or just take it all in, this canyon easily ranks as one of Arizona’s most surreal stops.

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3. Sip at the Whiskey Row in Prescott

Whiskey Row in Prescott is part frontier saloon, part modern-day pub crawl. This historic downtown strip once had over 40 bars in the early 1900s, and it still packs a punch with character. You can sip whiskey where cowboys once drank, especially at The Palace Restaurant and Saloon, Arizona’s oldest bar that still has its original barback from the 1880s.

I stopped by Matt’s Saloon for some live country music and ended up chatting with locals who shared ghost stories tied to the street. If you prefer something more modern, LazyG Brewhouse has great craft beers and an outdoor patio. The whole strip is walkable, with neon signs and plenty of late-night food spots to keep the energy going. Whether you’re bar-hopping or just people-watching, Whiskey Row is a fun and social experience with a Wild West twist.

4. Discover Sedona’s Red Rocks

Sedona hits different when you’re surrounded by its towering red rock formations. Trails like Cathedral Rock, Soldier Pass, and Devil’s Bridge offer everything from natural arches to panoramic lookouts. The Devil’s Bridge Trail is one of the most popular—around 4.2 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty. You’ll need a high-clearance vehicle for the closest trailhead, or plan for a longer walk from Dry Creek Road.

I hiked up to Airport Mesa Overlook right before sunset and couldn’t believe the colors washing over the rocks. Some people come for the spiritual energy at Sedona’s “vortex” sites like Bell Rock or Boynton Canyon, and even if you’re a skeptic, the vibe is peaceful. Between hikes, stop by Sedona Memories Bakery for an oversized sandwich—it’s a hidden gem. With so much packed into one town, Sedona never feels boring.

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5. Stargaze in Flagstaff

Flagstaff is one of the best places in the U.S. to stargaze, thanks to its designation as the world’s first International Dark Sky City. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way stretched across the sky without any light pollution getting in the way. The main hub for astronomy here is the Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, and you can still peer through historic telescopes to view distant galaxies.

I visited during one of the summer “star parties,” and the energy was contagious—astronomers setting up telescopes, people lining up to spot Saturn’s rings. Even outside the observatory, places like Buffalo Park or Mars Hill Trail offer free, open-sky views with minimal light. Grab a blanket, pack some snacks, and head out just after sunset. It’s the kind of night that makes you feel small in the best way.

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6. Dive into Tucson’s Culinary Scene

Tucson isn’t just hot—it’s spicy, smoky, and full of flavor. As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, it offers a blend of Native American, Mexican, and Southwestern influences that make every meal memorable. You can grab a famous Sonoran hot dog from El Güero Canelo, stop for tacos at Seis Kitchen, or explore the local food trucks around Fourth Avenue.

One afternoon, I joined a walking food tour and tried everything from mesquite flour tortillas to a chilled prickly pear cocktail. What stood out wasn’t just the bold flavors—it was hearing the stories behind the dishes from local chefs and owners. Tucson’s food scene isn’t fancy or pretentious, but it’s incredibly creative and rooted in tradition. Whether you’re exploring markets, sipping desert-inspired cocktails, or just chasing good tacos, this city knows how to impress your taste buds.

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7. Uncover Nature’s Secrets at the Desert Botanical Garden

Tucked into Papago Park in Phoenix, the Desert Botanical Garden is a 140-acre wonderland of cacti, succulents, and desert blooms. It’s not just a pretty walk—there are interactive trails, rotating art exhibits, and night tours during the warmer months that light up the desert in a whole new way. If you’re into photography, sunset is prime time for golden-hour shots.

During my visit, I joined one of the flashlight tours and learned how certain desert plants only bloom at night. You don’t need to be a plant geek to enjoy this place—it’s designed to be approachable, hands-on, and inspiring. Seasonal events like Las Noches de las Luminarias bring in live music and glowing lanterns throughout the garden. Whether you’re on your own or with a group, it’s a peaceful escape with just enough to keep you curious.

8. Go Tubing on the Salt River

Floating down the Salt River is one of the best ways to beat the Arizona heat while having an absolute blast. Located in the Tonto National Forest, it’s a popular summer activity just under an hour from Phoenix. You rent a tube, hop in the water, and drift for a few hours past desert scenery and the occasional wild horse.

I went with a group of friends in July and we packed a cooler float, sunscreen, and waterproof speaker. The full float takes about four hours, but there are shorter route options if you’re tight on time. Rentals are available through Salt River Tubing, which also includes a shuttle service. It’s rowdy in the best way—music, laughter, and the splash of cold water when your friend inevitably tips over. Just wear secure shoes and don’t forget a dry bag for your phone.

9. Visit the Heard Museum

If you want to understand Arizona beyond its landscapes, start at the Heard Museum in Phoenix. This museum focuses on Indigenous art and culture, especially from the Southwest tribes, and offers a thoughtful, in-depth experience. Its permanent exhibits include intricate Hopi katsina dolls, Navajo textiles, and powerful contemporary art pieces that reflect Native perspectives today.

I walked through the exhibit on Indian boarding schools and was surprised by how emotionally impactful it was—quiet, honest, and deeply informative. The museum also hosts artist demonstrations, dance performances, and cultural festivals throughout the year. You can easily spend a few hours here, especially if you enjoy interactive storytelling through objects and art. Whether you’re new to Native American history or already familiar with it, the Heard offers an experience that’s both educational and personal in a meaningful way.

10. Ski in the White Mountains

Arizona probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind for skiing, but the White Mountains prove otherwise. Located in eastern Arizona, this region transforms into a winter playground each year. The star of the scene is Sunrise Park Resort, which offers over 65 trails for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. It’s run by the White Mountain Apache Tribe and sits at an elevation of 11,100 feet at its peak.

We hit the slopes in January and found the snow surprisingly good—powdery in the morning and still rideable in the afternoon. You’ll also find cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails if downhill isn’t your thing. There are cozy rental cabins nearby with fireplaces and hot tubs, perfect after a cold day outside. It’s a solid winter escape without having to leave the state, and it’s way less crowded than the big-name ski resorts in other parts of the West.

11. Attend a Music Festival in Tempe

Tempe knows how to throw a party, and its music festivals are where the city really comes alive. Two of the biggest events each year are the Innings Festival and the Tempe Music Festival, which bring together major artists and crowds of energetic young adults. The Innings Festival combines spring training baseball vibes with acts like Tame Impala or Foo Fighters, making it a standout spring event.

I went during Innings and loved the combo of food trucks, live sets, and that chill Arizona sunset in the background. The crowd was a great mix—laid-back, fun, and easy to vibe with. The Tempe Town Lake area makes for a great outdoor venue, and even the smaller stages featured talented local bands. If you’re traveling with friends and want to dance, eat, and soak up good energy, Tempe’s festival scene doesn’t disappoint.

12. Explore the Historic Town of Jerome

Perched on the side of Cleopatra Hill, the town of Jerome is one of Arizona’s quirkiest—and spookiest—day trips. Once a booming copper mining hub, it’s now an artsy ghost town with steep streets, panoramic views, and stories around every corner. The abandoned buildings and crooked sidewalks feel straight out of a movie, especially when you hear about the old Sliding Jail that literally moved downhill over time.

I stopped by the Jerome Grand Hotel, which used to be a hospital, and it definitely gave off eerie vibes. Locals swear it’s haunted, and you can even join a guided ghost tour. But there’s more than ghosts here—check out the Jerome State Historic Park and art galleries tucked inside old saloons. Whether you’re here for history, the supernatural, or just a weirdly fun vibe, Jerome delivers something offbeat you won’t forget.

13. Relax at Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu is where Arizona turns into a beach town—sun, boats, and good times. Known for its bright blue water and surprisingly chill vibes, this is a favorite weekend escape for both locals and travelers. It’s also home to the original London Bridge, which was shipped from England and rebuilt here in the 1970s. You can stroll across it, snap some photos, then cool off at Rotary Community Park or nearby beaches.

When I visited, I rented a paddleboard and spent the afternoon on the calm water, then joined a boat party that docked near the Bridgewater Channel. The area is packed with spots to eat, rent jet skis, or just float in the sun. Whether you’re into adventure or pure relaxation, Lake Havasu offers a great mix of both. It’s the perfect way to end an Arizona trip on a laid-back, sun-soaked note.