The natural landscape is what first draws most people to Arizona.
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But again, there is more to Arizona than stunning landscapes.
Inside this city sanctuary youll find over 20 hiking trails.
Set your sights on summitingPiestewa Peakor warm up on the more moderatePiestewa Nature Trail.
There’s also a spa, golf course, and five outdoor pools.
Readers loved its original Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and location near Camelback Mountain.
The result is a 141-room propertybuilt around a plaza courtyardwith five new restaurants.
Tia Carmen
As the restaurant name implies,Tia Carmenpays homage to chef Sosas Aunt Carmen.
Made Art Boutique
The focus atthis shopis supporting local artists by showcasing and selling their work.
In total, the retail and gallery space features the work of over 200 local artists.
The surroundings are retro and the cocktails are Victorian-era inspired.
Century Grand
All three interviewees called outCentury Grandas the spot in Phoenix to grab a drink.
Just looking over the drink menu is a whole experience in itself!"
said Kristin Tovar, owner of the Tucson shop Why I Love Where I Live.
UnderTow
Grabbing a drink at the subterraneanUnderTowbar is an experience.
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Tovar calls it an Immersive cocktail experience, noting that theres a second location in Gilbert, Arizona.
Barrio Viejo
Walking through TucsonsBarrio Viejoneighborhood is a must.
Its the largest barrio in the U.S. and recently received aNational Historic Landmark designation.
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Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
This museumis more than you might expect.
It contains a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, art gallery, and a natural history museum.
It even has two miles of walking paths traversing desert landscape.
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Theres truly something for everyone.
Plus its been family owned and run since 1930.
Urias calls it a uniquely charming boutique Tucson hotel that really embraces the spirit of the Southwest.
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Cup Cafe
TheCup Cafeis a special place for Tucson locals.
Its a big mission for a little shop, whose goods are wonderfully and creatively Tucson-centric.
It is well worth the drive.
Courtesy of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
He notes that Sedona is really breathtaking and the native vortexes and energy will leave you awestruck.
Parking at the Soldier Pass trailhead is limited, so we recommend hopping onSedonas free shuttle.
The loop can also be crowded and hot, so starting out early in the morning is advised.
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Chapel of the Holy Cross
This is no ordinary church.
TheChapel of the Holy Crossis built on top of a natural red rock formation in the Coconino National Forest.
People come from all over the world to worship or enjoy the views over the Sedona landscape.
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The goal here is to reconnect with nature and with yourself.
LAuberge de Sedona
T+L readers just adore this property, ranking it No.
The eatery is part of LAuberge de Sedona.
Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton
Elote Cafe
Thisaward-winning spotserves up a mix of modern Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
The village is full of little gems galleries, restaurants, and boutiques.
Inside youll find everything from jewelry to paintings and sculptures.
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Toms Thumb is one of themany trails that criss-crossthe 30,500-acre preserve that is considered one of Scottsdales true gems.
Taliesin West
Thishome-turned-landmarkwas once the winter home and studio of architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurneys Resort & Spa
This resortwas the No.
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3 pick for T+L readers in the 2023 Worlds Best Awards.
For those seeking afantastic hotel in Scottsdalefor their dream vacation, this is a top contender.
The rooms have an authentic Southwest feel, with deep soaking tubs and private balconies with airy views.
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Some cool and contemporary updates make this retro spot colorful, happy, and full of photo inspo.
It too was recognized by T+L travelers in 2023.)
FnB Restaurant
This eateryin downtown Scottsdale has been a local go-to since it opened in 2009.
Douglas Friedman/Courtesy of Mii Amo
The menu is full of dishes featuring Arizona-grown food and the flavors practically jump off the plate.
They also offer online and in-person baking classes.
Art One Gallery
It doesnt get more local thanArt One Gallery.
Courtesy of L’Auberge de Sedona
The work is colorful, eclectic, and completely unique.
), so many people come to experience the dark, starry skies.
The citys Lowell Observatory is a must visit for space lovers it is wherePluto was discoveredin 1930.
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Its a great way to get the lay of the land and understand Arizonas Northerners.
These ancestral homes can be viewed in the monument, which sprawls just south of the city.
For more about the areas human history, visit theWupatki National Monumentto the north.
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TheAmericana Motor Hotelis one such property.
Shift Kitchen & Bar
The James Beard Foundation also took notice ofShiftin 2023.
The family-owned establishment and its Mexican breakfast fare has even been named the best breakfast in Flagstaff.
Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
Bright Side Bookshop
TheBright Side Bookshopis more than an independent bookshop packed with books.
Winter Sun Trading Company
Thisfamily businessdates back to 1976 when Arizona herbalist Phyllis Hogan opened up shop.
Inside youll find art and handicrafts from local tribes and natural turquoise jewelry.
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Bisbees copper mining history and the role it played in the industrialization of America.
Each is outfitted with vintage, period-appropriate decor (think percolators in lieu of coffee makers).
The star of the show is Dots Diner, whose diner fare draws people from all over the state.
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Copper Queen Hotel
The historicCopper Queen Hotelis Arizonas longest continually operated hotel.
The property is an Arizona landmark, with a colorful entrance in downtown Bisbee.
They also have a full-service bar that is typically bustling.
Courtesy of Practice Hospitality
But thePussyCatjourney began in Bisbee, with a menu of creatively flavored handmade gelato.
The interiors are distinctly 70s throwback with cafe-style seating.
Belleza Gallery
For over 25 years,Belleza Galleryhas been featuring the works of local art.
JPopPhoton.
In fact, visitors can expect to find at least 20 artists work on display at any given time.
If you find something you love thats not packable, dont worry, they ship worldwide.
Black Sheep Imports
Want a unique gift or souvenir to take home with you?
JPopPhoton
Its a true dive with live music and dancing on the weekends and its own resident ghost.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Arizona is in the spring and fall.
The spring is when the desert begins to bloom, while fall is considered to be optimum hiking weather.
Seeing all of the colorful flowers blooming in the middle of the arid climate is really just magnificent.
Arizona can also provide travelers with a sunny, warm weather escape in the winter.
Flagstaff also has its own, smaller airport.
If its your first visit, you really cant go wrong regardless of where you choose to explore!
How to Get Around
Most Arizona visitors rent a car or drive their own.
