Arizona is known for its natural beauty, wellness activities, and more. Here are 10 creative travel experiences for your Arizona bucket list.
Do you love the outdoors, focusing on your well-being, and discovering quirky small towns to explore? Then Arizona is for you. Known for the Grand Canyon and other breathtaking landmarks, there’s something for every type of nature lover and adventure seeker. Wanting to plan a creative wellness retreat? Explore the many wellness communities, retreats, festivals, and more.
Whether you’re planning a creative retreat or family vacation, personalize your trip with unique and creative Airbnbs and personalize your trip to match your creative travel goals and get the most out of your visit.
Why Travel To Arizona
- Nature
- Well-Being
- Unique Experiences
- Cultural Exchange
- Educational
- Play
If you love the outdoors, sunshine, Native American art and history, and creative communities focused on wellness, Arizona is for you. Arizona has attracted and inspired creative minds throughout history and cultures. Notable creative minds who were inspired by this state include Stevie Nicks, Alice Cooper, Stephenie Meyer, Jackson Pollock, and more.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration from some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world or time in nature to refuel your creative energy by supporting your mental health, Arizona is a creative destination for many types of creative retreats and types of travel.
Grand Canyon
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Well-Being
- Unique Experience
- Educational
The Grand Canyon is a must for any travel bucket list. At 277 miles (446 km) long and up to 18 miles (29 km) wide, this natural wonder is nearly two billion years of Earth’s geological history. Inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years, the grand canyon has been considered a holy site and inspired innovations, art, and other forms of creativity throughout its history.
When planning your trip to the Grand Canyon based on creative travel, there are infinite ways to experience and be inspired by this natural wonder.
Tips
From Above:
- Tandem skydive over the Grand Canyon
- Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon Skywalk
Below The Rim:
- The Grand Canyon is a hiker’s and mountain biker’s dream – AllTrails Best Hikes
- Mule Trips
- Raft the Colorado River
- Grand Canyon Railway
- Grand Canyon Jeep Tour
- The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is spring and autumn.
- Catch the sunrise to see the Grand Canyon and all its colors shining.
- Visit the Historic Kolb Studio – A thriving photography business started in 1905.
- Appreciate the views and all the experiences by staying nearby at places like the South Rim lodges, campsites, and unique Airbnbs.
White Water Rafting
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Collaboration
- Unique Experience
- Play
- Flow
When it comes to white water rafting in the US, Arizona has some of the most jaw-dropping and unique white water rafting opportunities because of the grand canyon.
Rafting the Grand Canyon is a bucket-list trip for many people and a unique way to experience one of the natural wonders of the world. The Colorado River extends for 279 miles through Grand Canyon. Depending on how fast the water is running and your skill level, you can spend anywhere from 3 to 18 days experiencing all its beauty, enjoying the river activities, hiking, camping, and more.
Best Arizona White Water Rafting
- Grand Canyon (Colorado River)
- Salt River Canyon – Near Phoenix
Tips
- Choose a licensed and professional whitewater rafting guide.
- Personalize and make your rafting trip even more unique with camping, fishing, train rides, and more.
- Listen to the safety orientation and your guide’s commands on the river.
- Go with friends, coworkers, and family to improve relationships and team building.
- Be ready for the unexpected and be prepared with proper clothing, swimming techniques, and other skills.
Monument Valley
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Well-Being
- Unique Experience
Monument Valley is a unique and sacred region that lies within the territory of the Navajo Nation Reservation on the Utah-Arizona state line. It is characterized by a cluster of sandstone buttes reaching as high as 1,000 ft (300 m) that shine magnificent colors, especially when the sun hits them just right.
The landscape is truly overwhelming, especially around sunrise and sunset. Framed by the open skies and drifting clouds, these natural monuments are one of the most photographed places on earth and a must for your Arizona Travel bucket list.
Tips
- Soak in all its beauty by staying at the View Hotel that looks over it or the nearby campground.
- Experience a unique and scenic helicopter tour of the valley.
- The best way to experience the site is the 17-mile tribal park scenic drive loop (4×4 is not necessary).
- There is only one hiking trail in Monument Valley; Wildcat loop Trail (4-mile).
- Find the Forest Gump Point featured in the movie, located on US-163 (37.101393, -109.990973.).
Hike to The Wave
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Well-Being
- Unique Experience
As inspiring as creatives can be in every state and country, nothing compares to the creativity of mother nature. The wave in Arizona is a gorgeous sandstone formation of various reds and yellows found along the Utah/Arizona border near Kanab in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.
Hiking The Wave in Arizona is a memorable experience and one of the top photographic destinations in the US Southwest. You will need a permit to experience this unique geologic location which is only a small part of the 112,500-acre Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.
Tips
- The best times to visit this trail are October – May.
- Be sure to get a permit before you plan your creative adventure.
- Apply for an advanced lottery permit or a daily lottery permit.
- Chances of winning depend on the time of year
- Be sure to download the offline Google Maps and stay on the trail.
- Wear layers to be prepared for weather changes.
- Plan your photos before you go and take pictures to inspire other types of creativity like painting, drawing, etc.
Creative Nature Experinces
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Well-Being
- Unique Experience
- Openness
Of the state’s 113,998 square miles (295,000 km2), approximately 15% is privately owned, with the remaining area being public forests, parklands, Native American reservations, and 24 National Parks. That’s a lot of nature to inspire the creative mind. In addition to the natural wonders that have already been mentioned, here are some additional destinations that are a must-visit.
Antelope Canyon
This slot canyon in northern Arizona is one of the most popular areas for photographers. With beautiful colors and curves, it’s sure to drop your jaw and open your eyes to the beauty of Arizona. Protected by the Navajo Parks and Recreation, you must join an authorized tour company to visit and experience this creative destination.
Horseshoe Bend / Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
This horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado River is located near the town of Page, Arizona, United States, and is another popular photography and hiking spot. Referred to as the “east rim of the Grand Canyon”, this beautiful spot is best viewed during the late morning or mid-day when the sun hits it just right to show its beautiful colors.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Located in northeastern Arizona, this national park holds preserved ruins of the indigenous tribes that lived in the area, panoramic overlooks, hiking trails, and more to inspire and teach you about the history of the land.
More Notable Nature Experiences
Tips
- Sun protection is key when experiencing the nature of Arizona.
- Stay hydrated
- Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
- Avoid the hottest part of the day when the sun is highest and hottest
- Check the weather, especially in the summer and monsoon seasons.
- Seek out unique tours to experience destinations differently.
- Try an ATV, 4×4, helicopter, and other unique methods of travel
- Go stargazing or join a stargazing/astrophotography tour
Creative Towns and Communities
Creative Benefits
- Community
- Culture
- Nature
- Well-Being
- Motivation
Arizona has long attracted and fostered creative minds, which has led to thriving creative communities and retreat centers to support and inspire creativity. Add these unique and creative towns to your Arizona travel Bucket list to inspire and support your creativity by connecting with the local communities and culture.
Sedona
Known as a popular wellness tourist destination, Sedona has a unique new-age spin on its creative community with an infusion of wellness practices to support creativity. This creative Arizona town hosts annual creative festivals, events, retreats, and more. It’s also a great launching point for many other creative travel bucket list items mentioned in this list.
Bisbee
Once a well-known mining town, Bisbee has become a unique creative town just southeast of Tucson. Hippies popularized and grew this artistic community in the 1960s, and it now features many art galleries, collectives, programs, and public art displays. Bisbee also features unique and creative running challenges on its 1000 Stair Climb, billed as “the most unique physical fitness challenge in the USA!” Get into shape and stay motivated by musicians who often serenade runners at various locations among the stairs.
Flagstaff
Flagstaff has a flourishing art community of artists who come for inspiring landscapes, theatres, galleries, a well-known First Friday art walk, a symphony orchestra, and more.
Tucson
Dive into Arizona’s best-performing arts scene, which also features quite a few art museums, galleries, and artist studios.
Phoenix
Despite being the largest city in Arizona, Phoenix still has a way to go in becoming a thriving creative community, but it does have the largest collection of museums, galleries, and growing creative collectives in the state.
Arcosanti
This unique experimental town in Yavapai County has been under development since 1970 to show how urban planning and circumstances can be improved while also reducing the negative effects on the environment. Discover the unique architecture and creative community that reflects the environment.
More Small Creative Towns
- Patagonia
- Tubac
- Jerome
- Williams
- Lake Havasu City
- Tombstone
- Cave Creek
- Globe
- Payson
- Winslow
- Page
Tips
- Plan your small-town visits around unique festivals and events.
- Dive into the local history and culture of each town with their unique tours, like the ghost tours you can find at many of these destinations.
- Try the unique fusion restaurants to challenge your taste buds and spark creative thinking.
Arizona Wellness
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Well-Being
- Unique Experience
- Educational
- Mindfulness
Over the years, Arizona has become somewhat of a mecca for wellness retreats and activities. People and creatives from all over the world travel to experience the rejuvenating effects of its natural landscape, 300+ days of sunlight per year, believed energy vortexes, and countless resorts and activities focused on wellness.
If you’re planning a creative wellness retreat, Arizona might be the best place for you. Consider these wellness activities and destinations when creating your Arizona travel bucket list.
Health & Wellness Benefits of Arizona
- 300+ days of Sunshine – Vitamin D for stress relief, better sleep, regulate the immune system, and more.
- Desert Climate – Better Air Quality, Improved Mobility, and more.
- Nature – Unique colors and experiences to enhance creative thinking and wellness.
Best Wellness Retreats & Activities
- Aji Spa – A Native American-owned spa in Phoenix
- Castle Hot Springs – Phoenix
- Terra Farm + Manor – Prescott
- Mii Amo – Sedona
- Civana – Carefree
- Canyon Ranch – Tucson
- Miraval Arizona – Tucson
Tips
- Explore and Connect With the Nature of Arizona – Explore the unique nature of Arizona on hikes, river trips, drives, meditations, and more.
- Soak in Geothermal Waters – Relax in the many natural and healing hot springs, especially after a long day exploring other bucket list items in Arizona.
- Experience the Arizona Vortexes – Visit these supposed energy hot spots believed to have healing and meditative properties in Sedona (Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon).
- Eat Local – Tour Arizona’s unique cultural dishes and eat locally sourced ingredients.
- Cultural Wellness – Explore the local Native American wellness offerings and practices to heal the mind/body and support creative thinking.
Cruise Route 66
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Mindfulness
- Unique Experience
- Educational
If you’re on a road trip in the Southwest, you must travel down the famous U.S. Route 66, which was one of the first U.S. highways and is your access to some of the best spots in Arizona, Texas, and beyond.
Route 66 has symbolized escape and adventure in creative works since the 1960s, with the most popular being the hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” by Bobby Troup.
The route goes through several of the creative small towns and bucket list destinations in Arizona, including:
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Little Painted Desert County Park
- Meteor Crater
- Mohave Museum&Arizona Route 66 Museum
- Creative Towns: Sedona, Williams, Jerome, Seligman, Oatman, Winslow, Flagstaff, Peach Springs
- Giganticus Headicus
- Bearizona – a drive-thru wildlife park
Tips
- Be spontaneous and enjoy all the unique and quirky stops along the way.
- Keep the creative mind active and entertained on your road trip by playing some road trip games.
- Plan around the weather:
- Summers are very hot
- Late summer (July & August) brings the monsoon season
- Winter varies but can be mild south of Phoenix
- Take breaks inspired by curiosity, wellness, and rest.
- Best things to eat and drink while traveling in Arizona:
- Fry bread
- Chimichanga
- Route 66 beer (Mother Road Brewing, Flagstaff)
- Medjool dates
- Sonoran hot dog
Creative Museums
Creative Benefits
- Nature
- Culture
- Unique Experience
- Educational
Arizona was home to many ancient Native American civilizations for thousands of years before the modern era resulting in some of the most notable examples of creativity dating back to prehistoric times. Creative travelers can experience and learn the long history of this creative state to view creativity from different perspectives to inspire and strengthen creative skills like empathy, openness, curiosity, collaboration, and more.
Phoenix Art Museum – Phoenix
This is the largest museum for visual art in the southwest United States and displays international exhibitions alongside its comprehensive collection of more than 18,000 works of American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art, and fashion design.
The Heard Museum of Native Cultures and Art – Phoenix
This creative cultural museum is a not-for-profit museum dedicated to the advancement of American Indian art. Founded in 1929, this creative destination shares the creativity and stories of American Indian people from the area with exhibitions of traditional and contemporary art from local artists.
Sonora Desert Museum – Tucson
This Arizona museum focuses on the natural history of the state and is a fusion experience where creative visitors can explore a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery & classes, natural history museum, and aquarium.
Western Spirit – Scottsdale
Located in the West’s most Western town, this museum is dedicated to the study and appreciation of Arizona’s creative history from the Indigenous Peoples, Spanish, and Mexican settlers to Western pioneers. This creative museum features artworks, artifacts, cultural objects, interactive experiences, presentations, performances, and events that allow visitors to explore and discover the American West.
Other Notable Museums
- Pima Air & Space Museum – Tucson
- Museum of Contemporary Art – Tucson
- DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun – Tucson
- Center for Creative Photography – Tucson
- Musical Instrument Museum – Phoenix
- Arizona Museum Of Natural History – Mesa
- Children’s Museum – Phoenix
Tips
- Make a museum visit a scavenger hunt to add gamification to learning.
- Consider guided tours, programs, and classes.
- Read the placards – They often include interesting facts about the creative’s life.
- Practice mindful walking – Make your visit a meditative experience.
- Go against the flow – Especially when crowded, and explore the museum in different ways to not feel rushed or pressured.
- Reflect on your visit with family and friends afterward – swap thoughts and observations to see a different perspective on the visit.
Creative Festivals and Events
Creative Benefits
- Community
- Culture
- Well-Being
- Unique Experience
- Educational
With year-round sunshine and good weather, Arizona is a great place to enjoy creative festivals and events in the beautiful outdoors. Connect with multicultural creative communities to discover new perspectives, build new skills, and have fun with friends and families in new and unique ways that celebrate Arizona’s creativity.
Here are just a few events and festivals to add to your creative travel bucket list, but there are many more for all types of creative fields.
TOP EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
- Tucson Festival of Books (March 4-5)
- Arizona Taco Festival
- Arizona State Fair (Sept 23 – Oct 30)
- Dia de los Muertos (Oct 30)
- Las Noches de Las Luminaries (Nov 30)
- Phoenix Festival of the Arts (Dec 10-11)
- Grand Canyon Celebration of Art (Sept 2 – Jan 16)
Tips
- Plan a creative retreat around events to build connections and network in different creative communities.
- Plan creative travel around events with creative friends to strengthen relationships.
- Plan creative retreats around nearby unique Airbnbs for breaks between work
Zach is an international writer, photographer, filmmaker, martial artist, and creator of Creative Enso, the Zen art of creative living. His goal is to empower and inspire creatives to live healthier, happier, and more creative lifestyles.
