These 7 Must See Arizona Hot Spots Will Make Your Jaw Drop!

Whether you're visiting Arizona from out of state or you've lived in the Grand Canyon State for decades, there's so much to see.

Deciding where to visit might seem like a no-brainer. These are some popular choices:

• The Grand Canyon
• Sedona
• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
• Old Tucson

Arizona has some hidden gems that you might not have thought to add to your travel logs. Jot these down, because you're going to want to visit as many as possible.

I found beauty, history, and natural wonders at all these locations. Some are a little off the beaten path, but worth adding to your Arizona adventure list. You won't want to miss these amazing destinations.

Chiricahua Mountains

Located in Willcox in Cochise County, these mountains are magical. They host diverse wildlife in ecological layers known as sky islands.

These unique formations were formed around 27 million years ago by a massive volcanic eruption from the Turkey Creek Caldera. Make a day visit, or enjoy camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation.

Discover the Amazing Biodiversity of Arizona’s Sky Islands

Montezuma Castle

Montezuma Castle near Camp Verde is a well-preserved cliff dwelling that was built around 925 years ago. The Sinagua people, who created the structures, had a thriving culture but disappeared, leaving behind the evidence of life in the desert.

This national park features a paved path that is wheelchair friendly and easy to navigate.

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Tombstone and the OK Corral

The Gunfight at the OK Corral is a Hollywood legend. Movies, television shows, and novels have featured this quintessential Old West town. It survives today with gunfight reenactments, stagecoach tours, saloons, and tourist destinations. No trip to Arizona is complete without taking a Walk Where They Fell in the Town Too Tough to Die.

Gunfight Somewhere NEAR the OK Corral: Is It All a Hollywood LIE?

Kartchner Caverns

Kartchner Caverns State Park is a jewel. This breathtaking underground cave has been protected and lovingly cared for since it was discovered in the 1970s. I recently took my first tour of the caverns, and I was beyond impressed. This natural wonder has been perfectly preserved for generations to come.

The History of Kartchner Caverns State Park

The Painted Desert

It's hard to imagine any landscape more beautiful than the hills and mesas of the Painted Desert. The stunning beauty owes its vibrant colors that range from deep reds to soft purples to the sediment deposits that were left behind by ancient volcanoes.

Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater is a vivid reminder of the active universe surrounding our humble blue planet. This well-preserved impact crater is nearly a mile deep.

The adjacent visitor center still holds the meteor that caused the damage. It's surprisingly small and heavy. Learn the history of the area and what may have been impacted, literally, when the meteor landed in northern Arizona.

What Caused One of Arizona's Largest Disasters?

Slide Rock

Slide Rock State Park is a unique way to cool off in Arizona's hot summers. Not far from Sedona, it's a popular spot for tourists to spend the day in the beautiful, cool waters surrounded by stunning red sandstone rocks.

3 Water Adventures in Arizona That Won't Break the Bank

No matter which you choose, you'll find wonderment and off-the-beaten-path adventures across our beautiful state!

Sources: National Park Service | Tourist Secrets | Slide Rock State Park