In this guide, you’ll explore 10 must-visit attractions across the Arizona for you upcoming family travel.
You’ll see famous and well known spots of the destinations, best time to visit them, and also the fee structure of each place.
So you don’t have to go and check multiple websites. Here you’ll get all eggs in one basket.
Without any further delay let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is located in northwestern Arizona. This is one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks.
The best time to visit Grand Canyon is from March to May and September to November (pleasant weather and fewer crowds).
Families can explore the South Rim for the best views, enjoy ranger-led programs, and hike kid-friendly trails like the Rim Trail.
Don’t miss the Junior Ranger Program, perfect for children to learn and earn a badge.
Check Complete Fee Detail Here
Sedona
It is located in the center or we can say it in the heart of the Arizona’s Verde Valley.
It is famous for its beautiful red rock formations like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, Coffee Pot Rock, Thunder Mountain.
When it comes to trails Sedona have too many options in trails like Cathedral Rock Trail, Devil’s Bridge Trail, Boynton Canyon Trail, Bell Rock Trail, Airport Mesa Loop, Fay Canyon Trail, West Fork Trail, Soldier Pass Trail.
Sedona is also famous for its vortex sites like Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon.
Here you can take Jeep tours, helicopter rides, hot air balloon experiences etc.
The best time to visit Sedona is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).
Here’s a breakdown of potential costs you might encounter:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Entry & Parking | Free (driving through town); Street Parking: $2–$5/hour or flat rate near popular areas. |
| Popular Attractions | Red Rock State Park: $7 (up to 4 adults); Slide Rock: $20–$30; Crescent Moon Ranch: ~$10; Amitabha Stupa & Chapel: Free (donations welcome). |
| Hiking Trails | $5–$12 per vehicle (Red Rock Pass required at some trailheads). |
| Adventure Activities | Jeep Tours: $70–$150+; Hot Air Balloon: $200–$300+. |
| Art & Shopping | Free entry to galleries and shops; purchases are extra. |
| Passes | Red Rock Daily Pass: $5, Weekly Pass: $15, Annual Pass: $20. |
| Important Notes | Fees may vary; check official websites. Red Rock Pass recommended for multiple park visits. |
| Peak Times Advice | Arrive early during peak seasons for parking. |
Important Notes
- Since Sedona is a town with various attractions managed separately, there isn’t a single “entry fee.”
- You’ll need to consider the costs associated with the specific places and activities you plan to enjoy.
Suggestion: Top 12 Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventures in Arizona
Phoenix Zoo
Phoenix Zoo is located in Phoenix, Arizona, specifically within Papago Park.
The Phoenix Zoo is the largest privately owned non-profit zoo in the United States.
The optimal time to visit the Phoenix Zoo is during the cooler months of fall, winter, and spring, particularly from February through April.
The zoo is organized into several themed trails also.
- Arizona Trail: Here you can see native animals and plants of Arizona.🌵🦉
- Africa Trail: Here you can see African animals without going to Africa such as lions, giraffes, white rhinos, and zebras. 🦁🦒🦓
- Tropics Trail: Here you’ll find tropical rainforest environments with animals like orangutans, Komodo dragons, and various primates and colorful birds. 🐒🐉🦜
- Children’s Trail: A kid-friendly area with smaller animals, a petting zoo at Harmony Farm, and interactive exhibits. 🐐🐥
Fee Structure of Phoenix Zoo
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Admission | $37.95–$39.95 (Adults 14+), $27.95 (Children 3–13), Free (Under 2). |
| Memberships | Varies by level; check website for latest rates and benefits. |
| Group Rates | Contact for pricing (15+ people); advance reservation required. |
| Special Experiences | Additional fees apply (e.g., Stingray Bay, Camel Ride); prices vary by activity. |
| Tickets | Online or at the gate; e-tickets recommended, non-refundable. |
| Hours of Operation | Winter: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Spring: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Summer: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM. |
| Location | 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 (Papago Park). |
| Parking | Free on-site parking. |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair/Stroller access; service animals permitted. |
| Re-entry | Same-day re-entry allowed; confirm at ticket window. |
| Payment | Credit/Debit cards preferred; some areas may accept cash. |
| Important Notes | Always check the website for updates on pricing, hours, or activity closures. |
| Ticket Tip | Buy online to save time during peak seasons. |
Important Notes
- Prices and hours are subject to change without notice. Always verify the latest information on the official Phoenix Zoo website before your visit.
- Some activities and exhibits may have separate fees or be temporarily closed due to weather, animal care, or other reasons.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to potentially save time.
- Check the official Phoenix Zoo website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is located in Phoenix, Arizona. This 140-acre garden is a living museum.
The best time to visit the Botanical garden is November to March.
This museum is dedicated to showcasing and conserving the diverse plant life of the Sonoran Desert.🌎🌵
The garden frequently hosts temporary art installations and exhibits that complement the natural surroundings. 🎨✨
Here you can explore various plants representing thousands of species, including a vast collection of cacti, succulents, trees, and wildflowers. 🌸🌵🌳
Here you’ll find five different thematic trails each shows different aspect of the desert.
- Plants and People of the Sonoran Desert Trail: Here you’ll learn about the historical and cultural uses of desert plants by indigenous peoples. 🧑🌾
- Desert Discovery Trail: This is an introductory trail showcasing the basics of desert ecology. 🚶♀️
- Sonoran Desert Nature Loop Trail: A longer loop through diverse Sonoran Desert habitats. 🌵🦉
- Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Loop Trail: Here you’ll discover the beauty of desert wildflowers. 🌼🧡
- Center for Desert Living Trail: Here you’ll explore sustainable practices for desert gardening and living. 🏡💧
Fee structure of Desert Botanical Garden
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Admission | $24.95–$29.95 (Adults 18–64), $14.95–$16.95 (Youth 3–17), Free (Under 3). |
| Discounted Admission | ~$2 Off for Seniors (65+), Military (Active/Retired), Free or discounted for Community Access (AZ EBT, WIC, SNAP). |
| Memberships | Free general admission for members. |
| Free Admission Days | Free on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. |
| Tickets | Online purchase recommended, timed-entry encouraged. |
| Hours of Operation | October–April: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, May–September: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM. |
| Location | 1201 N Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 (Papago Park). |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair/scooter access available; rentals on-site for a fee. |
| What to Bring | Water, Hat, Sunscreen, Camera; comfortable shoes recommended. |
| Payment | Credit/Debit cards preferred. |
| Reservations | Usually not required; timed-entry encouraged during busy seasons. |
| Important Notes | Always check the official website for updates on hours, fees, and special events. |
Important Notes
- Always check the official Desert Botanical Garden website for the most up-to-date information on fees, hours, ticket requirements, and any special events or closures.
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is located in southern Arizona, near the city of Tucson. 🗺️
It’s unique because it’s divided into two separate districts on either side of the city: the Rincon Mountain District (East) and the Tucson Mountain District (West).
The Rincon mountain district contains:
Bajada Loop Drive, Desert Discovery Nature Trail, Valley View Overlook Trail, Signal Hill Petroglyphs, Red Hills Visitor Center, King Canyon & Gould Mine Trails, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
The Tucson mountain district contains:
Cactus Forest Loop Drive, Mica View Trail, Desert Ecology Trail, Tanque Verde Ridge Trail, Loma Verde Trail, Rincon Mountain Visitor Center, Backcountry Camping.
This park is dedicated to preserving the iconic saguaro cactus, a symbol of the American Southwest, and the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem it thrives in. 🌵💚
It’s the only place in the United States where these majestic, towering cacti grow in such abundance.
Best time to visit Saguaro National Park
- Spring (Mid-February to May)
- Late Fall & Winter (November to February)
- Morning or Late Afternoon
Fee structure of Saguaro National Park
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Entrance Fees | Private Vehicle: $25 (7 days, covers both districts); Motorcycle: $20; Per Person (16+): $15. |
| Park-Specific Pass | Saguaro NP Annual Pass: $45 (1 year, holder + 3 adults). |
| Interagency Passes | America the Beautiful: $80 (12 months, all federal sites); Senior Pass: $20 (Annual), $80 (Lifetime); Military, Access, 4th Grade, and Volunteer Pass: Free. |
| Entry Information | Reservations: Not required; Park Hours: Year-round; Cactus Forest Loop Drive: 5:00 AM – 8:30 PM (Seasonal); Payment: Card only. |
| Purchase Locations | Visitor Centers, Fee Kiosks, Online. |
| Pass Validity | 7 days (covers both districts: Tucson Mountain & Rincon Mountain). |
| Children Under 16 | Free |
| Park Structure | Two districts (drive required between East and West sections). |
Important Notes
- It’s always a good idea to check the official Saguaro National Park website for the most up-to-date information on fees and any temporary closures or changes to operations.
Monument Valley
It is located on the Arizona-Utah border, within the Navajo Nation.
It is a famous landmark known for its striking red sandstone buttes and mesas.
The most famous landmarks of this valley are the East and West Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte.
You’ll also see other impressive formations like Totem Pole, Three Sisters, and John Ford’s Point. 🗿🧡⬆️
Fee structure of Monument Valley
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Admission | $20 (Ages 10+); Free for children under 10. |
| Additional Fees | Varies for guided tours, horseback riding, or special areas. |
| Tickets/Reservations | No reservation needed for scenic drive; recommended during peak seasons. |
| Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00/6:00 PM (Varies by season). |
| Payment | Credit cards & cash accepted at entrance. |
| Guided Tours | Required for areas like Mystery Valley (separate fee). |
| Visitor Center | Observation deck may require an additional fee. |
| Respect for Navajo Land | Stay on marked roads and respect cultural sites. |
| More Info | Check official Navajo Parks & Recreation website for updates. |
Important Notes
- It’s highly recommended to visit the official Navajo Parks & Recreation website before your trip to get the latest details on fees, hours, and any special regulations.
Horseshoe Bend
It is located near the town of Page in northern Arizona. Horseshoe Bend Overlook is a famous viewpoint of this place.
It is a horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado River. 🐴
Horseshoe Bend Overlook Trail is a relatively short and easy 1.5-mile roundtrip hike from the parking lot leads to a beautiful viewpoint directly above the bend.
It’s located near other popular destinations like Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell, making it a convenient stop on many itineraries.
Fee structure of Horseshoe Bend
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Entrance Fee | No fee for visiting the overlook; parking fee is $10 per vehicle. |
| Reservations | Not typically required, but parking can be limited during peak times. |
| Open Hours | Year-round, from dawn to dusk. |
| Payment Methods | Credit and debit cards accepted at parking booth. |
| Trail Accessibility | 1.5-mile roundtrip trail, mostly flat with some sandy sections. |
| Parking | $10 per vehicle at designated parking lot. |
| Unfenced Edges | Steep drop-offs; exercise caution when near the edge. |
| Accessibility | Moderately accessible; some shaded rest stops along the trail. |
Important Note
Always check the official Horseshoe Bend website for the most up-to-date information, including any temporary changes to operations or fee policies.
Antelope Canyon
It is located near Page in northern Arizona.
This canyon is divided into 2 parts (upper and lower canyon)
Upper Antelope Canyon which is known as the Crack is the most popular and easily accessible section.
This section is known for its dramatic light beams that occur around midday, especially during the summer months.
Lower Antelope Canyon which is known as the Corkscrew is longer and requires navigating some stairs and narrow passages.
It’s also incredibly beautiful with unique rock formations and light. ⬇️🧡🚶♀️
Access to Antelope Canyon is only permitted through guided tours operated by authorized Navajo companies.
This is to protect the fragile environment and respect Navajo Nation traditions. 🗣️📜
Fee structure of Antelope Canyon
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Tour Requirement | Guided Tours Only: Access is through authorized Navajo tours only. |
| Permit Fee | $8 per person: Usually included in the tour price. |
| Tour Pricing | $50 – $150+: Varies by tour, canyon (Upper/Lower), and time. |
| Reservations | Highly Recommended: Book early, especially during peak seasons. |
| Children | Same Price as Adults: No discount for children, including infants. |
| National Park Pass | Not Accepted: National Park passes are not valid; only Navajo Nation pass works. |
| Tour Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours: Includes transportation to/from the canyon. |
| Photography Tour | Higher Pricing: Inquire with specific operators for exact prices. |
| Booking | Online Required: Book your tour early to avoid missing out. |
Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu is situated on the border between Arizona and California. 🗺️
The lake is perfect for all kinds of water activities, including boating, jet skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. 🚤🏄♀️🛶
It offers you a unique attraction, the London Bridge. 🌉
It was Purchased and relocated from England in the late 1960s. Now it is a famous tourist destination.
You can walk across it, take boat tours underneath it, and explore the “English Village” nearby.
If you visit in January, you might catch the spectacular Lake Havasu Balloon Festival and Fair. 🎈🎉
Fee structure of Lake Havasu
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Lake Havasu Access | No central entrance fee; fees depend on specific access points and activities. |
| State Park Fees | Vehicle Day Use: $20, Individual/Bicycle Day Use: $3, Annual Pass: Varies. |
| Glen Canyon NRA Fees | Vehicle: $30, Motorcycle: $25, Individual/Bicycle: $15 (valid for 7 days). |
| Havasu Wildlife Refuge | No entrance fee, but fees may apply for specific activities like hunting or fishing. |
| City Access Fees | Varies for city-managed parks and boat launches. Check Lake Havasu City Parks and Recreation for details. |
| Payment Methods | Arizona State Parks: Credit cards/cash. Glen Canyon NRA: Credit/debit cards. City facilities: Check local options. |
| Pass Validity | Day-use fees at State Parks are valid for the day of purchase; Glen Canyon NRA passes are valid for 7 days. |
| Boating Fees | Separate fees/permits may be required for boating. Check with Arizona Game and Fish Department and California State Parks for regulations. |
| Hours of Operation | Varies by location; check specific websites for current hours (State Park, Wildlife Refuge, Glen Canyon NRA, City facilities). |
| Key Websites | Lake Havasu State Park: azstateparks.com/lake-havasu, Havasu National Wildlife Refuge: fws.gov/refuge/havasu, Glen Canyon NRA: nps.gov/glca, Lake Havasu City: lhcaz.gov |
Important Note: Since Lake Havasu is managed by multiple entities, it’s crucial to check the specific website of the area you plan to visit for the most accurate and up-to-date fee and entry information.
Kartchner Caverns State Park
It is located in southeastern Arizona.
This state park is home to a spectacular “living” limestone cave system, meaning that formations are still actively growing.💎💧
It was remarkably kept secret for 14 years after its discovery in 1974, allowing for careful planning to preserve its pristine condition before opening to the public in 1999.
It’s considered one of the most beautiful and scientifically significant caves in the world.
The park also offers several miles of hiking trails through the beautiful desert landscape above the caverns, with great views of the Whetstone Mountains. 🚶♀️🌵
Fee structure of Kartchner Caverns State Park
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Park Entrance Fee | 1 Person: $10, 2-4 People: $20, Individual/Bicycle: $5 (Waived with cave tour or campsite reservation). |
| Cave Tour Tickets | Rotunda/Throne Tour: Adults $30, Youth $15, Children under 7: $5. Big Room Tour (Oct 15 – Apr 15): Adults $30, Youth $15, No Children under 7. Helmet & Headlamp Tour (Saturdays): Ages 10+ $50, Children under 10: Not Available. |
| Camping Fees | $30 per night (includes water & electric hookups). |
| Camping Cabins | $59 per night. |
| Rebooking Fee | $5 for cave tour tickets. |
| Reservations | Cave tours are highly recommended and can be booked online or by phone. |
| Park Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (subject to seasonal/holiday changes). |
| Cave Tour Hours | Generally from 8:40 AM to 4:40 PM; Big Room tour availability varies by season. |
| Discovery Center Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. |
| Payment Methods | Credit cards and cash accepted (verify current payment options when booking). |
| Accessibility | Some cave tour routes are accessible; check when booking for specific needs. |
| Children Rules | Children under 7 are not permitted on the Big Room tour; under 10 not allowed on Helmet & Headlamp tour. A ticket is required for all children, even those with free admission. |
| Self-Guided Tours | Not available; only guided tours offered for cave exploration. |
| Important Notes | Check the official website for updated info on fees, schedules, and reservations. Arrive 30 mins before tour. Photos not allowed inside caves, but special photography tours are available at extra cost. |
Important Notes:
- It’s crucial to check the official Kartchner Caverns State Park website for the most up-to-date information on fees, tour schedules, and reservation policies, as these can change.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled cave tour time.
- Photos are generally not allowed inside the cave to protect the formations, but special photography tours are available (at a higher cost and limited schedule).
Conclusion
From Grand canyon to the Kartchner Caverns State Park now you are know about their famous spots, best time to visit them and the most important the fee structure of each destinations.
Now i think you don’t have to read the other blog post regarding this.
Let us know your queries and suggestions regarding the content down in comments.
So that from next time we can improve it for you.
Remember to consult official websites for the most up-to-date information on fees, hours, and any special regulations.
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