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A Sedona sunrise is not to be missed. Yes, you’ll have to plan ahead and get up very early, but I promise you it will be so worth it.

I’ve been to Sedona at least a dozen times and return every year for more. I love it here and always discover something new even after so many visits.

I honestly believe one of the best ways to enjoy this area is by exploring its many hiking trails. Sedona is a destination for outdoor lovers, and you’ll find no shortage of options to get outside while you’re here.

During my most recent visit, I spent an entire week on a Sedona sunrise tour seeking out the best Sedona sunrise spots around the area. Some were not as impressive as I had hoped, and others surprised the heck out of me.

For this post, you’ll find my 10 favorite spots to enjoy a sunrise in Sedona. I also include details about the location, how to get there, and what the parking situation is like.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Sedona Sunrise Spots Not to Miss

I selected each of the Sedona sunrise spots included in this post based on my own personal experience. I’ve been to Sedona over a dozen times and have hiked every single one of these trails. I can tell you with certainty, they are all incredibly beautiful places to enjoy a sunrise in Sedona.

I’ve included both challenging hikes and some that are pretty easy to get to. My hope is that no matter your skill or fitness level, you can find a few places to enjoy a sunrise during your visit to Sedona.

A quick note on parking. You’ll find small parking lots at most of the trailheads in and around Sedona.

Since this is a post about sunrise locations, theoretically you should be arriving at the trailhead early enough to beat the crowds. Which means there should be plenty of parking despite the small parking lots.

If you encounter a full parking lot, take a look to see if there is an overflow parking lot nearby. If there is, you will signs for it pointing you in the right direction.

Also, most of the parking lots at the trailhead locations will require you to purchase a Red Rock Pass. This is basically just a parking permit for the Sedona area.

If you’re in town a while, pick up the weekly pass which is $15. If you’re just here to enjoy one day in Sedona then I suggest purchasing the day pass for $5.

You’ll find a kiosk selling the Red Rock Pass at all parking locations. Credit cards are accepted. Be sure to place your parking pass on your dashboard before heading out on the trail.

Also, be sure to check the current Sedona sunrise time during your visit so you don’t miss it. Sunrise times obviously change throughout the year, so make sure you check before setting your alarm the night before.

1. Top of Cathedral Rock Trail

One of my favorite hiking trails in Sedona also happens to be the perfect place to enjoy a sunrise in Sedona.

If you arrive early enough you’ll find you have most of the trail to yourself. Don’t worry though, you won’t be alone. There is always be a handful of people who were eager to catch the sunrise here as well.

What I love most about this trail is that it’s views all the way. From the moment you step foot on this trail you’re already staring up at Cathedral Rock, and it just gets better and better the closer you get.

While this is a mostly uphill hike and will definitely take your breath away in more ways than one, there are a million places to take a break and just enjoy the views along the way. Believe me, you won’t struggle to find a spot to relax and enjoy the views on this hike.

Once at the top, catch your breath, enjoy the views, and get some pictures. You’ll find a popular photo spot off to your right. You can see the spot I’m referring to pictured above. Just please be careful walking to this spot, the pathway is narrow and it’s a very long way down.

When you’re ready to head home, just make your way back down the way you came. But, if you have more energy in the tank, keep reading for my next favorite Sedona sunrise spot which is just a short walk, or climb, away.

Details for the Top of Cathedral Rock at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Cathedral Rock Trailhead.”

Trail length: 1.2 miles to the top. Total distance is 2.4 miles there and back.

Approximate duration: About 90 minutes to the top and back with minimal stops.

Parking: There are about a dozen spots right at the trailhead. If you arrive for sunrise you should find plenty of spots available. If the lot is full, follow the signs to the overflow parking just up the road.

2. Spire at Cathedral Rock

Since you’ve already made the 1.2 mile climb up to the top of the Cathedral Rock trail, what’s a little more climbing right?

Once you’ve taken in the views at the top of the trail, make your way to the left of the lookout area. You’ll find a narrow trail that leads up to the lookout spot pictured here.

Getting up to this spot requires a little climbing due to the steepness of the rocks, but no technical skills required. You just need to scramble up the rocks.

Once you reach this lookout spot, you may find you’re the only one there. Many visitors are unaware this spot exists, so if nobody sees you head this way, you’ll probably have it all to yourself.

I love this spot the most for the way the morning sunlight shines through and lights up the red rock. You’ve really got to see this one in person, the pictures don’t do it justice.

Once again, please be careful in this area, the rocks can be slippery and it’s a long way down. To get back to your car, you’ll have to go down the way you came. For the first part of the way down, stay low to the rocks and find those footholds you used when you went up.

Details for the Cathedral Rock Spire at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Cathedral Rock Trailhead.” At the top of the main Cathedral Rock trail, make your way to the left to find the pathway up to this viewpoint.

Trail length: 1.2 miles to the top. Total distance is 2.4 miles there and back.

Approximate duration: About 1 hour 45 minutes to the top and back with minimal stops. This includes the extra bit you’ll have to climb to reach this lookout.

Parking: There are about a dozen spots right at the trailhead. If you arrive for sunrise you should find plenty of spots available. If the lot is full, follow the signs to the overflow parking just up the road.

3. Base of Bell Rock

Bell rock is one of my most visited sites when I’m Sedona. I come here every single visit because I love it so much.

Bell Rock is one of the first red rock formations that greets you as you approach Sedona from Phoenix. So, when I see Bell Rock, I know I’ve arrived in Sedona.

The Bell Rock Climb is also one of the easiest hikes in the area that still requires a bit of uphill climbing. While yes, the uphill part is a bit strenuous, it doesn’t take long to get the base section of Bell Rock. It took me about 20 to 25 minutes to get to the base section from the parking area.

The base of Bell Rock is essentially a huge lookout platform and the views will knock your socks off. It’s gorgeous from up there.

If you’re particularly adventurous, you can keep hiking upwards. To get to the upper sections of Bell Rock you’ll need to do some scrambling over boulders. I didn’t go up that far on this hike.

Honestly, you do’t need to go up higher because the views from the base section are already incredible. But, it is a fun climb and a great workout if you aren’t afraid of heights.

Otherwise, take a seat on the base somewhere and enjoy the perfect Bell Rock Sedona sunrise.

Details for the Base of Bell Rock at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Bell Rock Trailhead.” You’ll notice there are two different trailhead parking areas. For a shorter hike, choose the northern parking area. If you’d like a longer hike, park in the southern parking area.

Trail length: From the northern parking area and trailhead it’s less than a mile (about .8) to the base section of Bell Rock. Total distance is 1.6 miles there and back. From the southern parking area it’s about an extra half mile or so.

Approximate duration: About 1 hour 45 minutes to the top and back with minimal stops. This includes the extra bit you’ll have to climb to reach this lookout.

Parking: There are about a dozen spots right at the trailhead. If you arrive for sunrise you should find plenty of spots available. If the lot is full, follow the signs to the overflow parking just up the road.

4. Bell Rock Loop Trail

The Bell Rock Loop Trail is the easiest to get to sunrise spot on this list. The trailhead meets right up with the parking lot, and the length of the 3.6 mile trail is mostly flat.

I like that just about anyone can enjoy this trail, and it offers some pretty fantastic views with minimal effort.

For the majority of the trail you’ll have the surrounding red rocks to look at, not to mention the iconic Bell Rock off in the background.

I think the Bell Rock Loop Trail makes a great sunrise location in Sedona because it’s hassle free to get to, and you’ll get to enjoy views of Bell Rock and nearby Courthouse Butte in the early morning sunlight.

Details for the Bell Rock Loop Trail at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Bell Rock Trailhead.” You’ll notice there are two different trailhead parking areas, one north of Bell Rock, one south of Bell Rock. Either one is fine.

Trail length: The Bell Rock Loop Trail is 3.6 miles and mostly flat.

Approximate duration: About 1 hour to 90 minutes depending on your speed.

Parking: There is plenty of parking at both the southern and northern parking lot areas.

5. Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout

Okay, maybe this is actually the easiest sunrise spot in Sedona to get to since you’re only walking from the parking lot. But just because it’s easy to get to doesn’t mean it’s not just as impressive as some of the other spots on this list.

From this lookout you’re standing at the top of Airport Mesa, otherwise known as Tabletop Mountain. Here you’ll experience one of the most incredible views Sedona has to offer with the iconic red rock formations off in the distance along with the surrounding city landscape and nearby Verde Valley.

What I love most about the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout at sunrise is that you’re at a higher elevation than most other sunrise spots in the area. This gives you a birds eye view of Sedona at sunrise where you can see the morning sunlight light up the sky and surrounding red rocks.

If you’ve spent any time in Sedona before, you may also know that many sunrises here come with vivid pink hues across the sky. It’s worth getting up for, seriously.

If you’re not much of an early riser you can also enjoy the sunset from here. In fact, this is one of the best sunset spots in Sedona. As the sun sets behind you it lights up the red rock formations off in the distance making them a bright gold color.

It’s really cool to see this in person, but you’ll be sharing this moment with about 100 other people since it’s so easy to get to and so popular.

For those that prefer not to stand around in one place, you can find the highly trafficked Sedona Airport Loop trail nearby. This is a mostly flat 3.2 mile loop. It’s on the rocky side but is otherwise a fairly easy trail.

Parking for the Sedona Airport Loop Trail is located down Airport Road. For driving directions use Google Maps to search “Airport Mesa.”

Along this trail you’ll also come across the Airport Mesa Vortex, which is also visible on the map if you’d like to stop by.

Details for the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout” to obtain driving directions.

Trail length: None. This is a lookout point with nearby parking.

Approximate duration: As long as you wish to be there.

Parking: The parking lot for the lookout area is huge. There is an attendant in the booth collecting parking fees which are $3 per vehicle.

6. Sugarloaf Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain surprised the heck out of me and ended up being my favorite sunrise hike of the week. Perhaps this was because I pretty much had the place to myself, including the summit.

In the two hours that I was out hiking and enjoying the views at Sugarloaf Mountain I saw a total of 5 people. This was two couples and one person who was running the trails, most of whom left when I was arriving.

To get to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain you’ll take the Teacup Trail from the parking lot towards the Sugar Loaf Loop Trail. After about a quarter mile (0.3 miles actually) you’ll come to a fork at Thunder Mountain Trail, but keep right to continue towards Sugar Loaf Loop.

After a short while longer, you’ll come to another fork in the trail where the Teacup Trail meets the Sugar Loaf Loop Trail. Follow the signs to the Sugar Loaf Summit Trail.

To reach the top of Sugarloaf Mountain you’ll climb 250 feet to the summit. It’s kind of steep but not that long. You can stop to catch your breath just about anywhere on the trail, slow and steady.

Once at the summit you get gorgeous 360 degree views of Sedona. There’s a good chance you might have the place all to yourself.

When the weather is right, you may also get to watch the hot air balloons sailing by off in the distance. They’ll basically float right past you and land behind the red rocks.

If you’re looking for another hike in Sedona similar to this one, you can also check out nearby 1.5 mile Doe Mountain Trail. If looking for a significantly longer trail, check out the 7.3 mile Boynton Canyon Trail.

Details for Sugarloaf Mountain at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Sugar Loaf Trailhead” to obtain driving directions.

Trail length: 1.9 miles for the full Sugarloaf Loop Trail. Otherwise about 1 mile to summit and back.

Approximate duration: About 90 minutes if you enjoy the views along the way.

Parking: The parking lot here has about a dozen spots. You’ll find plenty of parking at sunrise.

7. Red Rock Crossing Trail

You can access the Red Rock Crossing Trail near the town of Oak Creek, which is just south of Sedona.

In fact, Oak Creek is where I like to stay when I visit Sedona. Oak Creek tends to be less crowded, a bit more affordable, and it’s very close to Bell Rock and the Red Rock Crossing Trail. I’ll provide a few suggestions for places to stay down below.

So the easiest way I’ve found to get to the Red Rock Crossing Trail is to park at the Baldwin Trail Trailhead (information on this below). After parking, just walk down Verde Valley School Road until it dead ends. At the dead end, look to the right and you’ll see where the trail is.

Basically, you’ll just keep walking to the right. The trail is not clearly defined in this area because of the red rock, but you can use your Google Maps to keep on the trail. Just a short while down, the trail becomes more defined.

From where you entered the trail at the end of Verde Valley School Road it’s 1.5 miles to meet up with the Cathedral Rock Trail, then another 0.3 miles to the top of Cathedral Rock. So round trip you’re looking at 3.6 miles if you hike to the top of Cathedral Rock.

What I love about this trail is that you’re walking along the side of Oak Creek, which is beautiful in the morning light. After a while you’ll come across the open area pictured above where you get perfect views of Cathedral Rock.

Details for Red Rock Crossing at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Baldwin Trail Trailhead” to obtain driving directions.

Trail length: 3.6 miles if climbing to the top of Cathedral Rock. Otherwise an easy 3 miles if just hiking to where the trails meet.

Approximate duration: About 2 hours, maybe more if you enjoy the views along the way.

Parking: The parking lot here has about a dozen spots. Red Rock Pass required. You’ll find plenty of parking at sunrise. Also, you’ll need to drive along an unpaved section of the road to get to this parking area. Just about any vehicle will be fine on this road, just go slow. I drive a little Fiat and my car did just fine.

8. Oak Creek at Crescent Moon Picnic Site

This is perhaps the best sunrise in Sedona if you’re not looking to do any hiking. You can reach Oak Creek via the paved walking paths at Crescent Moon which is just a short distance from the parking area.

The best reason to visit Oak Creek instead of any of the other spots on this list is for those gorgeous reflections of nearby Cathedral Rock on the water.

In fact, this is the perfect place to try out some Sedona sunrise photography. Since it doesn’t involve hiking you won’t have to drag your gear very far.

Photographers will find plenty of great photo opportunities along Oak Creek, especially in areas where the water is calm.

For full transparency, the Crescent Moon Picnic Area does not open until 8:00 a.m. which means you cannot actually access this area at sunrise. There is no other parking in the area, so plan to arrive right when they open.

That being said, if you arrive at 8:00 a.m. you’ll still have time to enjoy the views and get photos during golden hour.

Details for Oak Creek via Crescent Moon at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Crescent Moon Picnic Site” to obtain driving directions.

Trail length: N/A

Approximate duration: However long you wish to be there.

Parking: There is plenty of parking here. Be advised the parking area does not open until 8:00 a.m. There is also an $11 parking fee.

9. Mezcal Trail

This is an easy and very pretty Sedona sunrise hike that can be done by just about anybody. It’s also one of my favorites. Seriously, I loved this trail and can’t express strongly enough how beautiful the views are at sunrise. It’s gorgeous.

The trail is mostly flat but I promise it packs a lot into it’s relatively short distance.

You’ll find plenty of spots along the way with great views of the massive red rock range off in the distance.

In fact, I loved the views along this trail so much I missed sunrise at Devil’s Bridge, which is where this trail leads.

We’ll talk more about Devil’s Bridge down below. For now, if you’re looking for an easy to reach and easy to hike trail to enjoy a sunrise in Sedona Arizona this is the trail for you.

Details for Mescal Trail at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Mescal Trailhead” to obtain driving directions.

Trail length: Approximately 1.2 miles round trip.

Approximate duration: About 1 hour or so if you enjoy the view.

Parking: The parking lot here has about two dozen spots. You’ll find plenty of parking at sunrise, but don’t be late.

10. Devil’s Bridge

Devil’s Bridge is one of the most popular hiking trails in Sedona and for good reason. The views here are amazing and being able to get cool photos from the red rock bridge pictured above is a big draw.

To get to Devil’s Bridge, you’ll need to hike the moderately difficult Devil’s Bridge Trail. From the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead it’s 0.9 miles and 400 feet in elevation gain to the top at Devil’s Bridge.

Now the problem is, you can’t reach the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead parking area without a high clearance or 4×4 vehicle. If you have one of these, or plan to rent one, you can simply park in the dirt lot at the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead and be on your way.

If you have a regular car or SUV, you actually have an even better option, the Mescal Trail which I talk about above. You’ll find the Mescal Trailhead and parking area along Long Canyon Road.

From the Mescal Trailhead it’s 1.2 miles to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead. This route actually takes you on the Mescal Trail and Chuck Wagon Trail, but either way, it’s 1.2 miles and it is absolutely beautiful.

In fact, in many ways I think the Mescal Trail at sunrise is more beautiful than Devil’s Bridge, but don’t tell anyone I said that.

So, from the Mescal Traihead to the top of Devil’s Bridge you’ll be hiking 2.1 miles and it’s absolutely worth it.

One of my best hiking tips for seeing Devil’s Bridge at sunrise is to keep it moving. Ideally you want to beat the crowds at the top of Devil’s Bridge.

During my recent visit I kept stopping to take photos along the Mescal Trail. So when I finally arrived at the top of Devil’s Bridge, there were at least 30 other people at the top and 10 in line for a photo.

I waited in line for approximately 30 minutes before it was my turn, so about 3 minutes for each person. For a more enjoyable and peaceful experience, try to beat these crowds.

I would aim to be at the Mescal Trailhead by 6:30 a.m. if at all possible.

Details for Devil’s Bridge at Sunrise

Hot to find it: In Google Maps search “Mescal Trailhead” to obtain driving directions.

Trail length: Approximately 4.2 miles round trip.

Approximate duration: About 2 hours depending on crowds at the top of Devil’s Bridge.

Parking: The parking lot here has about two dozen spots. You’ll find plenty of parking at sunrise, but don’t be late.

Where to Stay in Sedona

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Sedona you’ll find no shortage of options.

Since Sedona is such a popular destination you can expect high priced accommodations. However, there are budget friendly options if you look for them. You can also find great deals if you travel in the off season or shoulder season.

Here are a few places I’ve stayed at and liked:

• Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock: Comfortable rooms with a microwave and refrigerator. They also have a nice restaurant and bar area complete with fire pits to make Smores. This resort is in Oak Creek right down the road from Bell Rock and one of the city’s best Italian restaurants, the one and only Cucina Rustica.
• Element Sedona: No frills here but it’s a newer hotel with a pool and is also in Oak Creek and close to Bell Rock. I’ve found good rates here on occasion, around $200 night but that’s not always the case. This is also a good option for Marriott rewards members. It’s a category 6 hotel and a quick check of random dates in February are selling at $260/night at the time of publication.
• Enchantment Resort: If you’re not on a budget and want to stay somewhere nice. This resort is located just outside Sedona near some of the area’s best hiking spots, including many mentioned above in this post.
• L’Auberge de Sedona: This is another upscale property but located right in the heart of Sedona. This is a beautiful property located right along Oak Creek. If I’m being honest, if I had the budget for it, this is where I’d stay.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to the best sunrise spots in Sedona. If you’re looking for more information on things to do in Sedona and Arizona, have a look at my other Arizona content down below. Thanks so much for reading.

This guide to the best things to do in Scottsdale will help you plan your first visit to the city.

I include information on finding fun and interesting things to do along with my recommendations on the best restaurants and hotels in Scottsdale.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway at a local resort, or prefer a more active vacation exploring natural spaces in the outdoors, I assure you, Scottsdale won’t disappoint.

I’ve visited Scottsdale at least a dozen times in recent years so I know the city well. That being said, even after all those visits I’m still discovering new things to do.

Are you ready to learn about all the best things to do in Scottsdale? Great, let’s get go.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Best Things To Do in Scottsdale AZ

Any visitor will find plenty of fun things to do in Scottsdale. This city has so much to offer no matter your interests. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, or just passing through on an Arizona road trip, you’ll find plenty of Scottsdale activities to enjoy during your visit.

I think Scottsdale stands out as a destination mostly because of its beautiful surroundings. Well, that and the year round perfect weather.

Those who enjoy spending time outdoors will really enjoy visiting the area. There are so many opportunities to get outside and enjoy activities like hiking, biking, rock climbing, and golfing.

Those who prefer to get to know the region’s food and culture will find no shortage of great museums and restaurants.

Finally, those who just want to relax and enjoy the sunny weather will find dozens of resort pools to choose from, where they can sunbathe poolside while sipping fruity cocktails.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Scottsdale, I recommend visiting in the springtime. This is when the city truly comes alive and when you can expect the best weather. It will be warm enough to enjoy a day at the pool, but not so hot you can’t stand being outside.

You should also know that Major League Baseball holds its annual Spring Training in the Scottsdale area. Spring Training is held in February and March each year and brings hundreds of MLB players and teams to the city, not to mention thousands of fans.

If you’re a baseball fan, tickets to games can be purchased online and are usually available the day of.

1. Old Town Scottsdale

The Old Town area is the heart of the city of Scottsdale. This is where you’ll find many of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, bars, and local boutiques.

The neighborhood has an Old West theme to it, so you’ll find many local businesses selling Southwestern and Old West style items. Even the local bars and restaurants stay in character. The Rusty Spur Saloon is one such example, which I talk about in more detail down below.

I recommend planning your visit to Old Town Scottsdale around mealtime. This way you can dine at one of the local restaurants, then go for a walk around the neighborhood afterwards. I share my favorite restaurants down below, so you’ll have a few good options to choose from.

While in Old Town be sure to stop by Western Spirit – Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. The museum educates visitors on life in the Old West and its impact on the area today.

2. Camelback Mountain

One of my favorite free things to do in Scottsdale is hike Camelback Mountain.

Camelback Mountain dominates the skyline in Scottsdale and creates the perfect background for this lively cosmopolitan city.

Camelback Mountain stands at 2,706 feet tall and is popular with both locals and visitors alike for hiking and rock climbing.

There are two trails that wind up to the peak of Camelback Mountain. Hikers can choose either the Echo Canyon Trail which is 1.14 miles in length or the Cholla Trail, which is 1.4 miles. Both of these hikes are considered strenuous as there are many steep sections that require scrambling over rocks and boulders.

It will take the average hiker between two to three hours for the there and back hike. I recommend arriving at the trail head in the early morning to beat the midday heat and crowds.

You’ll want to have good hiking shoes and plenty of water before setting out on this hike.

3. Taliesin West

If you’re at all into architecture, or just enjoy looking at nice homes, I encourage you to consider a visit to Taliesin West.

Taliesin West is the former summer home of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The home is currently open for guided tours and also hosts a school for architecture.

The home itself is beautifully built into the surrounding Sonoran desert landscape with some truly thoughtful and unique design aspects. You really do have to see this place in person.

The guided tours offered at Taliesin West are also excellent. I think if you’re going to visit, you should plan to attend a guided tour.

Learning about Mr. Wright’s design style and hearing all the interesting facts and stories from his life are what make the visit here so memorable. He was a fascinating person who lived an extraordinary life.

You’ll notice in the photo above that there are red glass reeds in the water and lawn in the front of the home. These glass structures are part of an art exhibit at the property by notable glass artist Dale Chihuly called Chihuly in the Desert.

Chihuly in the Desert at Taliesin West runs until June 19, 2022.

You can find information on tours and tickets for Taliesin West here.

4. Scottsdale Resorts

Scottsdale is a resort town through and through and you’ll find a wide variety of resorts here for just about any budget.

When looking for a resort in Scottsdale I recommend finding the one with the best pool area, as you will probably spend a significant amount of time there, especially in the spring and summer months.

Also, Scottsdale is an easy town to get around in. I’ve rarely encountered traffic here, if ever. So if you find a hotel you like that’s a bit out of the city center, don’t think that will be an inconvenience. You’ll have no trouble getting around and visiting all the places you want to see.

After staying in many of the hotels and resorts in and around Scottsdale, here are a few of my favorite places to stay when I’m in town.

Budget Friendly

• Hotel Adeline: Trendy hotel near Old Town Scottsdale with a large pool and surprisingly comfortable rooms. They even have a hidden speakeasy with excellent cocktails.

Mid Range

• The Scott: I stay at The Scott often when in Scottsdale. They have a really fun bar area with great food. They also have a large pool with plenty of room to spread out. The rooms here are really nice.
• W Scottsdale: Like all W hotels, this one has a younger clientele and a bit of a party atmosphere. The hotel has a popular pool area along with a great restaurant and bar.

Luxury

• The Phoenician: This is my favorite hotel in Scottsdale. The pool area is huge and the property is gorgeous and sits right at the base of Camelback Mountain.
• The Four Seasons Scottsdale: Absolutely beautiful property away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hotel has one of the best patio lounges for viewing the sunset with a fruity cocktail in hand.

I hope you’ve found a hotel you like up above, but if not you can find plenty more options here.

5. Rusty Spur Saloon

I just recently discovered the Rusty Spur Saloon and it has quickly become one of my favorite things to do in old town Scottsdale.

Like the rest of Old Town Scottsdale, the bar features an Old West theme with lots of decorations and memorabilia covering the walls inside.

Rusty Spur Saloon features a full bar with a wide variety of cocktails on offer and several beers on tap. They also have a full kitchen menu with a variety of appetizers and burgers.

In the late afternoons and evenings they have live music from local musicians seven days a week.

The evenings here can be really fun. Bring a group of friends, order some cocktails and sit back and enjoy the music.

The Rusty Spur Saloon is open daily at 10:00 a.m.

6. Butterfly Wonderland

Butterfly Wonderland is one of the largest butterfly conservatories in North America and is one of the most unique Scottsdale attractions. It is home to thousands of fluttery butterflies from all around the world.

When visitors first arrive at Butterfly Wonderland they are escorted into a large theater to view a short 10 minute 3D video about the lives of butterflies. The video is well done and provides lots of information about the life cycle of butterflies. It’s pretty cool to see them all in 3D as well. This will be especially fun if you have kids with you.

After the video you leave the theater and are free to roam around and enter the conservatory. The conservatory area is huge with plenty of room to explore.

Once inside you’ll see all sorts of colorful butterflies of all different shapes and sizes. This is a fun spot to visit, especially if you’re looking for a place to cool off during the hot Scottsdale summers.

Butterfly Wonderland is open 365 days a year from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

7. OdySea Aquarium

OdySea Aquarium is the largest aquarium in Arizona and home to more than 65 exhibits and 370 species.

This multi-level aquarium is the perfect place to escape Scottsdale’s hot temperatures during the summer months. Both kids and adults will enjoy a visit here, there really is a lot to see.

Some of my favorite exhibits featured sea turtles, sting rays, and sharks. They even have a sloth exhibit with at least one sloth that I could find. He was fun to watch despite the slow movements.

Some of the most popular exhibits at the aquarium are the otter exhibit and penguin exhibit. I could spend hours at either of these exhibits. Both otters and penguins are on the playful side and so much fun to watch.

OdySea Aquarium is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

8. Pinnacle Peak Park

Pinnacle Peak Park is another local favorite hiking spot in Scottsdale. The park features 150 acres of natural space with a highly trafficked 1.75 mile hiking trail.

The tallest point on Pinnacle Peak stands at 3,169 feet tall, though the trail does not go quite that high. You can expect an elevation gain of around 1,300 feet on the trail.

Most hikers complete the out and back hike in under two hours.

As with all hiking trails in Scottsdale be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. It is also recommended to begin your hike early in the day to avoid the midday sun and heat.

Pinnacle Peak Park is open daily and hours vary be sunrise and sunset times. Be sure to check the park’s website for current opening and closing times. As a general rule you can expect the park to open around 7:00 a.m in the winter and around 5:00 a.m. in the summer.

10. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

I just discovered McDowell Mountain Regional Park on my most recent visit to Scottsdale and loved it immediately. It was the gorgeous desert landscape that did it for me. This park seemingly goes on for miles in all directions when you’re out on the trails.

This park is popular for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. Plus, the park is extremely dog friendly, so you’ll see plenty of dogs of all kinds during your visit.

I visited in the park during the middle of the day on a weekend and only saw a handful of people. It seems the park is spacious enough to allow distance between guests, which is nice. That being said, I would plan your visit for early mornings to beat the heat and midday sun.

McDowell Mountain Regional Park is open from May to October from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and from November to April from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Overnight camping is permitted in designated campgrounds. Reservations required.

Things to Do in Scottsdale Arizona With Extra Time

If you have extra time or you’ll be in town for a long time, here is a list of other city attractions you may wish to check out. Many of the activities below are good for the whole family if you’re looking for ways to entertain the little ones.

Best Restaurants in Scottsdale

There are honestly so many great restaurants in Scottsdale that it’s hard to narrow down the list. However, after a dozen or so visits to the city, I certainly have my favorites.

Here are the best restaurants in Scottsdale according to me. Most of these restaurants are located in the Scottsdale Civic Center or Old Town area.

You may have noticed my list of best restaurants in Scottsdale leans Italian. Since Italian cuisine is my favorite, I tend to seek out great Italian restaurants wherever I go. However, no matter the type of food you’re looking for, you’ll find no shortage of great options in Scottsdale.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to the best things to do in Scottsdale AZ and that I’ve inspired you to plan a trip of your own. Thanks so much for reading.

This guide to the Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Phoenix Arizona will help you plan your first visit to this lively and in my opinion, very underrated capital city.

While Phoenix has not always been a popular tourist destination, the city has been undergoing many changes in recent years making it a wonderful place to visit for art, culture, outdoor adventures, and a pretty darn good restaurant scene.

Having visited Phoenix and the surrounding area many times over the past several years, I’ve compiled some of the area’s biggest attractions. I’ve also included several of my own favorite things to do in Phoenix and as always, left out some activities I just didn’t find that interesting.

Whether you plan to stick around the city for a while or you’re just in town before embarking on an Arizona road trip, you can find all the best things to do below in this Phoenix itinerary.

I also made a video about my favorite fun things to do in Phoenix which you can find at the bottom of this post.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Things to Do in Phoenix Arizona

As mentioned above, I’ve visited Phoenix many times. There’s just something about that Arizona sun that keeps drawing me back again and again. In fact, as I write this I’m planning yet another visit to the state in just a few weeks.

While there are at least 100 things to do in Phoenix, I limited this guide to the things I personally enjoyed. After all, there are only so many museums one can go to in a single trip. I include three down below, but I promise they’re cool.

Anyways, I tried to stick to the more unique things to do in Phoenix, so if you choose to do any of these things, I think you’ll have a really good time.

If this is your first visit to Phoenix I recommend at least two full days. This should give you enough time to get in a good mix of activities and get to know the place a little.

1. Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix surprised the heck out of me. I mean, I knew it would be kinda cool since I’m a huge music fan, but this place was just amazing.

If you’re a fan of music, especially music and travel, then this is the place for you.

The museum features musical instruments from nearly every country on the planet with the various exhibits broken up by continent, then by country.

Each country exhibit features an introduction to each nation’s traditional instruments, notable musicians, relevant clothing and fashion items, and a video with music from selected local musicians.

When you purchase your ticket at the museum entrance you receive a headset to wear as you explore the exhibits. As you walk past the various exhibits, your headset will automatically play the music from the exhibit you’re looking at.

It’s really cool and a fun way to make the museum more interactive. Plus, it’s nice to actually hear the instruments you’re looking at.

This museum is rather large, so I would plan at least two hours for your visit. If you’re really into music, you may even wish to stay longer.

The Musical Instrument Museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission for adults is $20 and it’s worth every penny.

2. Phoenix Art Museum

This was my second visit to the Phoenix Art Museum and I enjoyed my visit even more this time around.

The museum is currently featuring an exhibit on fashion designer Rudi Gernreich called Fearless Fashion. As a former fashion design student, I found this exhibit extremely interesting, not to mention inspiring.

The various exhibits explore the many stages of his fashion career with some background on the inspiration for his designs at the time.

Those not interested in fashion will still have plenty to see at the Phoenix Art Museum. The museum has galleries on multiple levels with a variety of exhibits.

I find the exhibits here to be well curated and unique, so it’s always a fun stop while in Phoenix. Plus, it’s a great way to escape the heat if you’re visiting during the hotter months.

The Phoenix Art Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday. The galleries open at 10:00 a.m. Adult admission is $23 but they occasionally have discounted days. During my visit I got in for free just for having a Bank of America card.

3. Papago Park

Okay, not gonna lie. I loved Papago Park, but not for the reasons most people do. The park is home to a few very popular area attractions, two of which I discuss below. However, that’s not what I liked so much about the place.

Inside Papago Park you’ll find Hole in the Rock (discussed below), Desert Botanical Garden (also discussed below) and the Phoenix Zoo (definitely not discussed below), all of which draw visitors to this park.

What I loved about this park is its incredibly beautiful desert landscape. I loved that you could find a place like this so close to the city.

Papago Park is also lined with about a dozen or so hiking trails. Most of the trails are easy and relatively flat. Just be sure to get started early to beat the heat in the warmer months.

I personally explored the trails near Hole in the Rock and had fun taking pictures with all the cacti. Here are a few trail options you can choose from at Papago Park:

• Crosscut Canal Path – Easy – 1.4 miles
• Hole in the Rock Trail – Easy – 0.2 miles
• Nature Trail – Easy – 0.5 miles
• Ranger Office Loop Trail – Easy – 0.6 miles

You can find trail maps and longer descriptions of each of these hikes at the Papago Park website.

For any of these hikes be sure to bring lots of water, wear a hat, and get started early in the morning or later in the evening if you’d prefer to avoid the desert heat.

I also recommend bringing your camera. It’s beautiful there.

If you have additional time after visiting Papago Park, consider heading over to the Pueblo Grande Museum Archaeological Park. The Pueblo Grande Museum is located just outside Papago Park and is located on a 1,500 year old archaeological site once inhabited by the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People.

This is a really interesting place to visit and a great way to learn about the history of the area.

4. Hole in the Rock

Hole in the Rock is a popular outdoor attraction in Papago Park frequently visited by locals and travelers alike.

It is exactly as it’s name suggests, a large sandstone rock formation with a hole near the top. The rock’s unique features makes it a popular subject for photographers, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Visitors looking to climb Hole in the Rock will hike up a short 0.3 mile trail. This is a dirt trail with stairs built into some sections. The trail is steep in some areas but overall fairly easy.

For the best photos plan to arrive for sunset or sunrise. You’ll have fewer crowds at sunrise, but you will likely not be the only one there. Be creative and work those angles. A little patience will also go a long way.

Admission to Papago Park is free. There is a parking lot right beside Hole in the Rock. If you arrive early enough you should be able to find a spot without issue.

5. Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden is another stop you must make while in Papago Park and was definitely one of my favorite Phoenix attractions.

This outdoor garden features over 140 acres of various desert plants with over 50,000 plant displays. The displays are broken up by desert region and include all sorts of desert cacti and other native plants.

I recommend arriving at the Desert Botanical Garden in the early morning right when they open. This way you’ll have the walkways to yourself for a while. It’s a popular place, so by late morning or early afternoon, it’ll be a bit more difficult to get photos without other people in them.

I also prefer the early morning because it’s more peaceful. I enjoyed having the park’s many paths and trails all to myself.

You’ll also want to keep an eye out for special events at the Desert Botanical Garden. They have some very unique and fun offerings throughout the year.

Coming in December 2021, they have a really beautiful event called Chihuly in the Desert. This is an art installation in partnership with artist Dale Chihuly. For this event there will be large-scale colorful art installations throughout the gardens. Read more about this here.

The garden also has special events in the evening including their popular Flashlight Nights. So if you’re looking for things to do in Phoenix at night, be sure to check that out.

The Desert Botanical Garden is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the summertime. Hours may vary seasonally, be sure to check their website for the dates of your visit. Admission varies from $14.95 to $29.95 depending on the day, date, and time of your visit.

Advanced tickets are required to visit Desert Botanical Garden. Buy your tickets here.

6. Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is located in downtown Phoenix and is dedicated to the presentation, interpretation, and advancement of American Indian art.

Visitors to the Heard Museum can explore and learn about native American Indian art and culture through a variety of mediums including weaving, painting, sculpture, photography, and more.

Current exhibits at the museum include the following:

• Small Wonders: Small format works including jewelry and specialty items.
• All at Once – The Gift of Najavo Weaving: Showcasing 46 textiles from contemporary Navajo weavers.
• Grand Procession – Contemporary Plains Indian Dolls: Features 23 dolls which provide a figurative reference to indigenous peoples from the Great Plains and Great Basin regions.

The Heard Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Adult admission is $20 at the door or $17 is purchased online in advance.

7. Japanese Friendship Garden

If you’re looking for a peaceful, pretty place to enjoy a nice walk in the morning head to the Japanese Friendship Garden in downtown Phoenix.

This 3.5 acre garden features a variety of plants, ponds, bridges, lanterns, sculptures, a small waterfall, and plenty of Koi fish and birds.

There are paved walkways leading around the garden with several benches along the way to relax, reflect, and just enjoy the view.

For the best experience, I recommend arriving at 7:00 a.m. when they open. This way you’ll have most of the garden to yourself, at least for a while.

The Japanese Friendship Garden also offers a traditional Chanoyu Tea ceremony once per month.

The ceremony includes a tour around the garden before guests are guided through a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Tickets and information on this Chanoyu Tea Ceremony can be found here.

The Japanese Friendship Garden is open Tuesday through Sunday, hours vary. Adult admission is $10.

8. Taliesin West

Taliesin West is the former winter home of world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

The home is located just outside Phoenix in the nearby town of Scottsdale, Arizona and is one of the area’s top rated attractions. In fact, people come from all around the world to see this property and learn about the life and history of Frank Lloyd Wright and Taliesin West.

While Mr. Wright passed away back in 1959, his work continues to be celebrated and studied around the world. Today, Taliesin West is home to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and the home is open to visitors year round.

In order to visit Taliesin West you must have purchased either a guided tour or self-guided tour in advance. Tickets are available for purchase on the Taliesin West website.

Your two tour options are as follows:

• Guided by Wright Audio Tour: This is a self-guided tour using your own smart phone and allows guests to go at their own pace.
• Insights Tour: This is a guided tour of the property with stops in Wright’s private quarters, living room, Garden Room, drafting studio, music pavilion, cabaret, and more.

Both tours mentioned above are 60 minutes in duration and both will cost $40 for adults. Personally, I recommend the guided tour. You’ll always get a little extra from a real person on a tour like this. Plus, you’ll get to ask questions.

Taliesin West is open Thursday to Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

9. Old Town Scottsdale

If you plan to visit Taliesin West, be sure to leave time either before or after your visit for a stop in Old Town Scottsdale.

While technically Scottsdale is its own city and not part of Phoenix, it is part of the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, so we’ll include it here anyway.

The town of Scottsdale is best known for its many upscale resorts and is an extremely popular destination for bachelorette parties and girlfriend getaways.

During the spring months the area also plays host to Major League Baseball’s Spring Training. So from the end of February to early March, the town is packed with baseball players and fans.

The downtown area of Scottsdale known as Old Town Scottsdale is where you’ll find many of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and local shops. It’s a really fun area to walk around for an afternoon.

If you get hungry I recommend heading to The Mission for margaritas and some very delicious table side guacamole.

If you stick around Scottsdale for a while and wish to do some hiking, be sure to visit the city’s famous Camelback Mountain. Here you can hike the Cholla Trail or Echo Canyon Trail for some rather epic views of Scottsdale and the surrounding area.

10. South Mountain Park and Preserve

South Mountain Park and Preserve is a large city park located just 15 minutes south of downtown Phoenix. At over 16,000 acres, the park is actually the largest municipal park in the United States and one of the largest in North America.

The park consists of three mountain ranges including the Ma Ha Tauk, Gila, and Guadalupe. As you’d expect, the park is the perfect place for hiking. You’ll find over 50 miles of trails across the three mountain ranges with trails suitable for any fitness or ability level.

In addition to hiking the park is also a popular destination for mountain biking, trail running, and horseback riding.

One of the park’s biggest attractions is Dobbins Lookout, the highest point in the park accessible to the public. You can reach Dobbins Lookout on foot via one of the park’s many hiking trails, or by driving along Summit Road.

From the lookout you’ll have incredible views of the surrounding area. It makes a great destination for sunset or sunrise if you can time it right.

South Mountain Park and Preserve is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Bonus: UnderTow

You didn’t think I’d leave you hanging without a great recommendation for cocktails did you? I hope not.

The place to go in Phoenix is the tiki themed bar UnderTow.

UnderTow is located about 15 minutes north of downtown Phoenix and is the kind of place that transports you to somewhere new.

The bar is dark and meticulously decorated in an old-world ship theme, complete with portholes depicting stormy seas outside and what appears to be a pirate ship off in the distance.

The drink menu here is extensive and features hand-crafted cocktails sure to inspire your next tropical getaway. My drink of choice, recommended by the bartender, was the Talon of Tenacity.

This rum fueled drink was reminiscent of the traditional Painkiller often found it other tiki bars around the world. Think rum, cream of coconut, orange juice, and cinnamon, along with a few other ingredients to make it interesting.

If you’d like to visit UnderTow in Phoenix you’ll need a reservation first. You can make reservations on their website. Each reservation is good for 90 minutes.

Things to do in Downtown Phoenix

For those of you specifically looking for things to do in downtown Phoenix you’ll have plenty of options to keep you busy. Some of the suggestions above are also in downtown Phoenix, but here’s a list of what’s in the area to make it easier.

Other things to do in and around Phoenix include visiting the Flame Fire Museum, Desert Ridge Marketplace, Goldfield Ghost Town, Tempe Town Lake, and Tempe Beach Park.

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the 10 Best Things to Do in Phoenix AZ and that I’ve inspired you to plan a visit of your own. If you enjoyed this article please consider sharing it. As always, thanks for reading.

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Jerome, Arizona is a quirky little hillside town with a haunted past. The town is located just a short drive from nearby Sedona and makes a great day trip destination.

The best things to do in Jerome can all be enjoyed in just a few short hours, making a visit here well worth your time. In fact, the town was one of my favorite stops on my recent Arizona road trip.

Jerome is considered the largest ghost town in the country, and its haunted past makes the town a uniquely fun stop.

If you’re one who likes ghost town tours then this is the perfect place for you. As an old mining town, the city has an interesting history and learning about it makes your visit all the more fun.

This guide to the 10 best things to do in Jerome is based off my own recent trip. I hope you have as good of a time here as I did.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Best Things to Do in Jerome AZ

The town is located about 40 minutes southwest of Sedona or two hours north of Phoenix.

To get to Jerome you’ll need a car, though you can also take a taxi. Or, you can also book a Sedona to Jerome Ghost Tour, which of course comes with transportation.

Once you arrive in Jerome you can easily explore the town on foot. You’ll want to set aside at least half a day and be sure to wear comfortable shoes. As mentioned above, Jerome is a hillside town, so the streets are hilly and narrow.

Don’t forget your camera as well, there’s lots to see and take pictures of.

1. Main Street

I recommend starting off your visit to Jerome with a walk down Main Street. This is where you’ll find many local restaurants, cafes and local boutiques.

You’ll get a good sense of the town after exploring this area, as Jerome’s character is on full display here.

You’ll also come across a few of the town’s local wineries and tasting rooms (more on that later), and of course, the local saloon.

2. Sliding Jail

To be totally honest, I didn’t visit the Sliding Jail during my visit to Jerome because I had not heard about it beforehand. However, I’m including it here because it seems to be quite the attraction.

You can read more about Jerome’s Sliding Jail, but you’ll come across it if you walk down Hull Avenue which runs parallel to Main Street.

3. Jerome State Historic Park

Jerome State Historic Park is located a short drive from downtown Jerome. This is where you can visit the famous Douglas Mansion, built in 1916 by wealthy mining entrepreneur James S. Douglas. For its time, the mansion was rather luxurious with its own wine cellar, billiard room, and even a marble shower.

Today, the Douglas Mansion functions as a museum where guests can learn about Jerome’s mining history and the Douglas family’s role in that industry. The museum features historical exhibits, artifacts, a restored Douglas Library, and interestingly, a model of the town that shows its underground mines.

In addition to all of the above, you’ll also get to enjoy the beautiful views of the Verde Valley from the grounds of the hilltop mansion.

If you’d like to see more of the mines in Jerome you can also stop by Audrey Headfame Park located just next to Jerome State Historic Park. At Audrey Headframe park you can stand on a glass floor over a 1,900 foot mine shaft. It’s a unique experience and worth the stop if you’re already in the area.

Douglas Mansion is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p..m. Adult admission is $7. Audrey Headframe State Park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

4. Jerome Historical Society and Mine Museum

To get a real sense of what life was like in Jerome’s early days make a stop at the Jerome Historical Society on Main Street.

Here you can visit the town’s Mine Museum where you can learn about what it was like to live in Jerome back in the town’s mining days all the way to present times.

The Historical Society has a large archive of photographs, maps, and newspaper articles that tell the many fascinating stories of this unique town.

The Jerome Historical Society and Mine Museum are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Adult admission is $2.

5. Jerome Ghost Tour

If you’re planning to visit Jerome, I highly recommend joining a local tour. The ghost tours can be particularly fun, but the wild west tours and historical tours are also worth while.

Jerome is an interesting place, so if ever there was a place to join a tour, it’s here. I’ve included a few recommendations below.

• Jerome Ghost Walk: This one hour and fifteen minute tour takes you to all of Jerome’s most haunted destinations where you can learn all about the town’s haunted past and present.
• Wild Wild West Tour of Jerome: This is a really interesting 90 minute tour all about the salacious history of Jerome’s wild west days.
• Jerome History Walk: This is a one hour tour focused on the history of Jerome from its origins as a tent city to a booming mine town.
• Jerome from Sedona Haunted Tour: This is a four hour tour from Sedona with stops in Cottonwood and Clarkdale. You’ll learn all about Jerome’s haunted past and plenty of interesting facts about the town.

Whether you take a tour or not, don’t miss out on learning more about the history of Jerome as you explore the town. Knowing about the town’s history will make your visit here more fun and give you a sense of what Jerome is all about.

6. Wine Tasting

Wine lovers will be happy to learn that the town of Jerome is part of the Verde Valley wine region. This wine region includes the neighboring cities of Sedona and Cottonwood, among others.

Those visiting Jerome will have several options for sampling regional wines while in town.

Here are the wineries you can visit in Jerome:

• Passion Cellars
• Cabal Cellars
• Caduceus Cellars and Merkin Vineyards

Hours for the individual tasting rooms vary. I recommend just stopping by while you’re in town, or you can always call ahead. Contact information can be found on their respective websites.

7. Jerome Artists Cooperative

The Jerome Artists Cooperative is a local gallery showcasing art from local artists. You’ll find all kinds of art and crafts including paintings, photography, sculpture, pottery and more.

Since Jerome is an artsy town that has drawn artists of all kinds from around the country, you’ll find some pretty interesting stuff here.

If you’re looking for an easy and very direct way to support the local community, stop into the artists cooperative gallery and pick up a few unique items to bring home.

You’ll find the Jerome Artists Co-Op at 502 Main Street. They are open from Wednesdays to Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

8. Gold King Mine and Ghost Town

The Gold King Mine and Ghost Town is a quirky stop located about 5 minutes outside the town.

Here you’ll find old buildings and vintage cars on display from Jerome’s old mining days. I’m unsure how much of what’s displayed is authentic and how much is staged, but it’s a fun little stop while you’re in the area.

From what I understand, the area where Gold King Mine currently sits was a former gold mine area. Apparently the miners here were originally looking for copper, but found gold instead.

The many historic structures dotting the property here are remnants from the former town that propped up when the mining began.

Visitors to Gold King Mine and Jerome Ghost Town can tour around the property and even pan for gold. I’m unsure how many actually still find gold here, but it sounds like a fun learning experience.

Gold King Mine and Ghost Town is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission for adults is $10.

9. Jerome Grand Hotel

You can’t visit Jerome without stopping at the Jerome Grand Hotel. Better yet, plan to stay there if you’ll be spending the night in Jerome.

You’ll find the Jerome Grand Hotel at the top of the hill overlooking the town. The hotel was originally the town hospital which was built back in 1926. The hospital served the town’s medical needs until about 1950 when it shut down.

After sitting vacant for many years, the hotel was purchased by new owners and converted into a hotel.

Today, the Jerome Grand Hotel is considered the most haunted building in Arizona and is frequently visited by those looking for paranormal activity. The hotels history includes multiple suicides and a possible murder, which of course only adds to the intrigue.

Guests choosing to stay the night can join one of the hotel’s ghost tours and dine at the property’s Asylum Restaurant.

If you are unable to join a hotel tour, you can also find other Jerome ghost tours here.

Rooms start at about $180 per night, though rates may vary depending on time of year.

Hotels in Jerome AZ

There are not many hotels in Jerome but you do have a few options. Here are my recommendations.

• Jerome Grand Hotel: I talked about this hotel just above. The rooms are a bit dated, as is the hotel, but you stay here for the experience and the history. If you prefer something fancier, keep reading.
• The Clinkscale: Built in 1899 but elegantly restored. This is a very nice hotel which also has a fantastic restaurant. Rooms around $225/night. This would be my first choice.
• Connor Hotel: This is where you stay if the other hotels are booked. The hotel is dated but rooms are nice enough for one night.

If you’re real fancy, head back to Sedona. You’ll find everything you want and more at the resorts there.

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the 9 best things to do in Jerome AZ and that I’ve inspired you to plan a visit of your own. As always, thanks for reading.

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