Arizona has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. While seeing the Grand Canyon is reason enough for most people to visit the state, Arizona has so much more that’s worth exploring. If you’re wondering whether Arizona should be your next vacation destination, check out the top four reasons why you should visit.

Grand Canyon

The most common way to experience the Grand Canyon is to simply view it from either the North or South Rim. However, there are many other ways to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the best ways to grasp the scale of the Grand Canyon is to hike it. If you think a hike sounds exciting take a look at this site. It answers some of the most common hiking-related questions. Rafting and helicopter tours are two other popular ways to experience the canyon’s wonders.

The Sonoran Desert

When most people picture the Southwestern United States they think of the desert. While Arizona does have a desert it’s only in the Southern part of the state. In the Sonoran Desert you’ll find many plants and animals that don’t exist anywhere else in the world. Besides hiking visitors can experience the desert via horseback or even hot air balloon.

History

History buffs will enjoy visiting Tombstone, Arizona, the location of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The event is routinely reenacted by a group called the Boot Hill Gunslingers. A number of buildings that were originally erected during frontier times still stand inside the town. Arizona is also home to numerous ancient history sites like the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument and the Montezuma Castle National Monument. Both sites feature structures built by the ancient people that inhabited the Arizona area.

Weather

No matter the season you visit you’ll find wonderful weather somewhere in the state. If it’s snowing in Flagstaff, it’s likely warm in Tucson. Similarly, if you find Phoenix’s summer heat to be too overwhelming you can find respite in the Coconino National Forest in Flagstaff. Arizona gets an average of 300 days of sunshine each year, so if you’re craving some sunshine during the winter visit Arizona. Skiing enthusiasts won’t be disappointed to learn that the state also has a number of ski resorts located in the northern cities of Alpine, Flagstaff, and Tucson.

To learn more about what Arizona has to offer visitors, take a look at the state’s official travel site.