Here we go over how to enjoy wintertime in Arizona.
While colder regions are left coping with frost and the tire trouble, Arizona is enjoying winter in its own, unique way. The state’s modest temperatures provide a plethora of activity opportunities and tourist attractions. Whether you want to go hiking, biking, fishing, or desert exploring, you will find multiple ways to enjoy your Arizona winter.
Let’s jump right in!
National Parks
Arizona is home to some of the most notoriously beautiful parks in the Nation.
Winter is one of the best times to visit these parks because of the comfortable temperatures and light traffic on the paths.
Grand Canyon National Park- The Grand Canyon is a geological masterpiece that has been in the making for over sixty million years. Visiting the canyon is an item on the bucket list of nearly all Americans. However, getting to one of the overlooks isn’t always an easy feat. Hiking is the most common travel method, which can take hours. During the winter, this hike is much easier, and you don’t have to worry so much about dehydration or heat exhaustion.
Saguaro National Park- The Saguaro National Park offers visitors the perfect example of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. The park showcases a diverse range of desert landscapes, fauna, and flora. The most iconic views in Saguaro Park are the Saguaro cacti, bighorn sheep, and tortoises. Naturally, this 91,000-acre desert park is best when traveling during cooler temperatures.
Petrified Forest National Park- This park is another Arizona destination that many Americans are eager to visit one day. The Petrified Forest is named after its ancient trees that have turned to stone. The vibrancy displayed across the park resembles a fairy tale. All colors of the rainbow not only sprawl across the mountains but within the petrified wood.
Museums and Performing Arts
Arizona boasts an enthusiastic cultural scene which is represented through its various museums and performing arts establishments. If you are interested in spending your winter indoors and learning about the state’s rich history and viewing artistic talents, check out some of these institutions.
Heard Museum- The Heard Museum showcases Native American art and culture. Visitors can view traditional and contemporary exhibits featuring artifacts, textiles, and more.
Arizona History Museum- The Arizona History Museum displays collections that educate visitors on the state’s rich history. Within the exhibits, you find artifacts, documents, and photographs from the Native American culture, the Spanish Colonial period, and the present.
Herberger Theatre Center- The Herberger Theatre Center is a hub for performing arts. On its three stages, visitors can see Broadway performances, ballets, and concerts.
Mesa Arts Center- The Mesa Arts Center is the largest visual and performing arts center in the state. It features art galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing concerts and dance.
Shopping and Dining
If you prefer to spend the cooler season preparing for the holidays and enjoying the town, you won’t be disappointed by Arizona’s shopping and dining scene.
Arizona’s shopping and dining scene is one that fits well with anyone’s taste and budget. Whether you are looking for thrifty steals or gourmet meals, Arizona has a shopping center, store, or restaurant perfect for your taste.
Scottsdale Fashion Square- Scottsdale Fashion Square is where you go for high-end luxury shopping. The area has retailers such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, and Ralph Lauren.
Arizona Mills- Arizona Mills in Tempe is an outlet and bargain shopping center featuring over 150 stores. Here you find discounts on popular brands like Nike, Adidas, H&M, Rainforest Cafe, and Ross.
Mill Avenue- Also in Tempe is Mill Avenue where you find small boutiques and unique vintage finds. Here you find clothing, toys, shoes, restaurants, handmade gifts, and more.
Downtown Phoenix Public Market- Downtown Phoenix Public Market is a farmers market, well-loved by local residents. At the market, you find artisan goods, prepared foods, cultural dishes, baked goods, and fresh produce.