Arizona is one of the best places to create unforgettable family memories. From outdoor adventures that bring you up close with nature to hands-on museums that inspire creativity and learning, the Grand Canyon State has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or looking for something fun for the little ones, Arizona delivers. Let’s explore some of the best family-friendly activities across the state that promise to make your next trip an adventure to remember! advertisement Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family Arizona is famous for its stunning desert landscapes, and there’s no better way to
Arizona is widely known for places like the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Forest, but one of its most stunning and underrated treasures is Aravaipa Canyon. Just southeast of Phoenix and northeast of Tucson, this wilderness area remains a well-kept secret for those seeking a fun outdoor adventure. Aravaipa Canyon offers a rare combination of serene beauty, challenging terrain, and diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for backpackers, nature lovers, and adventurers alike. advertisement A Breathtaking Wilderness Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness spans an impressive 19,410 acres and is located in Graham and Pinal counties. The canyon itself stretches over 11
Arizona is home to some of the most intricate and unique cultural traditions in the United States, and among them is the Hopi people’s craftsmanship of Kachina figures. These carvings, often referred to as kachina dolls, serve as much more than mere decoration—they are educational tools, spiritual symbols, and artistic expressions. Through these figures, the Hopi pass down knowledge of their belief systems, traditions, and the spirits that influence their daily lives. advertisement What Are Hopi Kachina Figures? Hopi kachina figures are intricately carved dolls, traditionally made from cottonwood root, by members of the Hopi tribe who live primarily in
Spirit of Arizona Tours (SOA) offers a unique experience that blends history, mystery, and culture in one journey. Locally owned and operated, SOA takes pride in sharing Phoenix’s hidden gems—those lesser-known places that often slip under the radar of mainstream tours. advertisement Founded in September 2019 by Arizona native Jarrod Riddle, SOA was born from his desire to share Phoenix’s untold stories. As well as overlooked sites with locals and visitors alike. From true crime tales and ghost stories to the art of murals and the soul of the city’s tacos, Riddle’s tours provide a fresh perspective on the city’s
In a city where the culinary scene is growing rapidly, one restaurant stands out for its authentic, innovative, and flavorful take on Thai cuisine — and it’s earned national recognition. Lom Wong, a Thai restaurant in Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row, has become a popular hotspot for locals and food critics alike. Chef Yotaka “Sunny” Martin, co-owner of Lom Wong, has made it to the finalist round for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards, among the highest honors in the culinary world. advertisement The Vision Behind Lom Wong Opened in 2022, Lom Wong is more than just a place to grab a
Are you looking for a new breakfast restaurant in the Valley? Fortunately for you, the local breakfast scene is as diverse as the state. Let’s explore some of the best breakfast destinations according to locals. advertisement 1. Butterfield Pancake House (Scottsdale) Locals agree that Butterfield Pancake House is one of the top breakfast spots in the Valley. Known for its mouth-watering pancakes and classic breakfast fare, this Scottsdale establishment is a beloved local gem. True to its name, the pancakes are the star! Fluffy, warm, and served with various toppings make them unique and irresistible. 2. Over Easy Over Easy
Arizona’s history is rich with tales of pioneers, miners, ranchers, and outlaws, but none are as infamous as the Cochise County Cowboys. These figures became synonymous with lawlessness in the late 1800s, and their stories spread far beyond the state’s borders. But what exactly made these cowboys so notorious? advertisement The Wild West Era and the Birth of Tombstone In the 1870s, the area that would become Tombstone, Arizona, was a barren stretch of land, home only to a few scattered settlements. But the town exploded when Ed Schieffelin, a prospector, discovered silver in the Tombstone Hills. By 1880, Tombstone
Fun fact: Arizona is home to over 800 native fish and wildlife species, the highest biodiversity of any inland state. If you love spotting the diverse creatures of Arizona, you’re lucky you found this article. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of must-visit locations statewide for wildlife viewing. advertisement Northern Arizona Chevelon Canyon Wildlife Area Activity: Wildlife Viewing Description: Situated in the Ponderosa Pine ecosystem of the Mogollon Rim, this area is home to a variety of species that thrive in both meadow and riparian habitats. Lamar Haines Memorial Wildlife Area Activity: Wildlife Viewing Description: This 160-acre wildlife area consists of
When it comes to iconic desert landscapes, both Joshua Tree National Park and Saguaro National Park stand out for their unique features. While both are desert regions with distinctive plant life—Joshua Trees and Saguaro Cacti—they each offer vastly different experiences in terms of scenery, wildlife, and overall ambiance. For anyone who’s already visited Joshua Tree and is considering a trip to Saguaro, here’s how the two compare. advertisement Joshua Trees vs. Saguaro Cacti Joshua Tree is known for its granite outcrops and expansive, rugged landscapes. The park’s namesake Joshua Trees—strange and otherworldly—dot the Mojave Desert, creating a scene filled with
In an exciting development for Arizona’s transportation future, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced the creation of an Executive Leadership Team tasked with studying the feasibility of a high-speed rail system between Phoenix and Tucson. This ambitious project could provide a major boost to the state’s economy, improve travel efficiency, and enhance safety along one of the busiest corridors in the state. advertisement The Vision for High-Speed Rail in Arizona The proposed high-speed rail would stretch across a 160-mile corridor, connecting the cities of Phoenix and Tucson. The rail system would offer passengers an estimated three daily trips,
