Arizona, known as “The Grand Canyon State,” offers up much more than just Grand Canyon National Park. The state is filled with things visitors do not realize they can do in Arizona, from goat yoga to flying on a trapeze. This semiarid state is also known for its picturesque hiking trails and magnificent natural landscape.
Popular vacation destinations in Arizona include Scottsdale, Sedona, Tucson, and Phoenix. Phoenix, specifically is one of the best US destinations to visit during springtime. Phoenix is also the perfect place to visit in winter, with pleasant temperatures and incredible golfing.
There are numerous ways to explore Phoenix, from strenuous nature hikes to biking through the urban streets. When planning a trip to Phoenix, select a unique tour that matches your definition of adventure.
10 Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour
When searching for off-the-beaten-path things to do in Phoenix, consider booking a haunted pub tour. During this spooky tour, guests learn Phoenix’s haunted history from a knowledgeable guide, making stops at George and Dragon English Pub, The Clarendon Hotel, and Hotel San Carlos. The tour price covers the haunted tour, exclusive access at special locations, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Guests are responsible for purchasing their own drinks at the bar.
- Tour: Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Cost: From 75 USD per person
9 Phoenix Murders And Mysteries Ghost Tour
A great tour for true crime fans and those who are interested in the paranormal, the Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour teaches guests about the city’s dark and scary history. This tour makes stops at the Rosson House Museum, Orpheum Theatre Phoenix, The Clarendon Hotel, and Union Station. The Rosson House is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a caretaker who was shot inside in the 1980s, while Orpheum Theatre houses a ghost of its own named Mattie.
- Tour: Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Cost: From 75 USD per person
8 Canyon & Cliffside Kayaking On Saguaro Lake
Vacationers interested in an outdoor adventure should book a canyon and cliffside kayaking expedition on Saguaro Lake. This popular self-guided water tour is a fun way to explore Arizona’s natural landscape and wildlife. Each guest receives a kayak, paddle, and life jacket, as well as a kayak tutorial prior to departure. Since this is a self-guided tour, guests explore the lake at their own pace and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the water.
- Tour: Canyon & Cliffside Kayaking on Saguaro Lake
- Duration: ~2 hours
- Cost: From 54.21 USD per person
7 Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour
Another Arizona water adventure to try is rafting. While there are no crazy white-water rapids to overcome, the Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour offers beginner-friendly fun for the whole family. A guide helps steer the raft, in addition to sharing interesting facts about the Sonoran Desert and its flora and fauna. While rafting along the water, guests enjoy scenic views of the desert and natural wildlife.
- Tour: Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour
- Duration: ~4 hours
- Cost: From 170 USD per person
6 3 Cities & Nature Tour
There are numerous ways to explore downtown Phoenix, including via guided tour. Vacationers looking for an urban adventure should book the 3 Cities & Nature Tour. This exciting tour actually explores three awesome Arizona cities: Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Tempe. The Phoenix portion of this tour focuses on Phoenix’s art district, exploring local street art and ending with a meal at a local restaurant. This tour is perfect for travelers wishing to explore various urban areas in Arizona.
- Tour: 3 Cities & Nature Tour
- Duration: ~4 hours
- Cost: From 168 USD per person
5 Stunning Sunrise Or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure In The Sonoran Desert
This popular guided hiking adventure is perfect for the outdoor explorer. Guests choose between a beautiful sunrise hike or a blissful sunset hike in the Sonoran Desert. The Sonoran Desert is a must-visit spot for many reasons, including its rich ecosystem and warm temperatures. What makes this tour special is the tour guide tailors the hike to meet guests’ skill levels. The guide also leads hikers to a beautiful mountain viewpoint, offering spectacular views of downtown Phoenix.
- Tour: Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
- Duration: ~2 hours
- Cost: From 125 USD per person
4 Amazing 2-Hour Guided Hiking Adventure In The Sonoran Desert
Mad Desert Trekking, which also runs the previously mentioned hiking excursion, offers an incredible 2-hour guided hike for hikers of all skill levels. During this hike through the Sonoran Desert, guests explore a Phoenix Mountain trail while an experienced guide leads the way and shares facts about the unique and interesting landscape. Bring a camera or phone to capture stellar images of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Camelback Mountain.
- Tour: Amazing 2-Hour Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
- Duration: ~2 hours
- Cost: From 125 USD per person
3 RoRo Street Art Tour Phoenix
Not everyone wants to spend an afternoon hiking, and an alternative tour perfect for the urban explorer is the RoRo Street Art Tour Phoenix. This incredible and affordable tour exposes guests to Phoenix’s street art scene. Guests are led through the city streets to various murals and works of street art as a guide explains some background on the artists and the works themselves. Street art is always changing, making this a unique and exciting tour guests can enjoy year after year.
- Tour: RoRo Street Art Tour Phoenix
- Duration: ~2 hours
- Cost: From 26.67 USD per person
2 Centipede Tour- Guided Arizona Desert Tour By ATV
For vacationers who aren’t afraid to get a little dirty, an ATV tour is strongly recommended. The popular Centipede Tour is a guided ATV tour where guests explore the incredible Sonoran Desert. These off-road, rocky trails make for quite the adventure, and guests rave about the staff’s helpfulness and high energy.
This tour is for travelers 16+ and guests must present a valid ID.
- Tour: Centipede Tour- Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV
- Duration: ~3 hours
- Cost: From 99 USD per person
1 Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix
Arguably the best way to see Phoenix is from above. Plan the ultimate outdoor adventure by booking a morning hot air balloon ride. The vibrant orange, pink, and purple sky provides the perfect backdrop. Waking up early for this excursion is worth it, as guests feel truly serene when taking in the panoramic views in the morning light. The pilot guides the balloon over the Sonoran Desert, Camelback Mountain, and downtown Phoenix.
This tour sells out quickly, so be sure to purchase your tickets well in advance.
- Tour: Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix
- Duration: ~3.5 hours
- Cost: From 236.52 USD per person