Flagstaff, approximately two hours from Phoenix, is a gateway to the Grand Canyon. The mountain town is home to not only some premier skiing, but boutique shops, a charming historic district, and local breweries. There’s also the Lowell Observatory, perfect for enjoying Flagstaff’s International Dark Sky Place designation, Sunset Crater Volcano for hiking, and Wupatki National Monument for those interested in learning about the Ancestral Pueblo communities.
Sedona, full of vortexes and rich red rocks, is a little further south. The town is geared towards spiritual wellness and prioritizes connecting with nature, but prices here can be elevated. The overwhelming surge of visitors during peak seasons can become frustrating, with limited space and even more limited parking.
The capital of Arizona, Phoenix, is the fifth-largest city in the United States. The heart of the city has been revitalized and is now home to diverse neighborhoods, acclaimed eateries, award-winning cocktail bars, and cultural showcases.
For wine enthusiasts, Willcox and Elgin/Sonoita, in the southern region of the state, and Verde Valley, in the center, are Arizona’s American Viticultural Areas. Grenache, Syrah, and Viognier wines are particularly impressive here.
Tucson, two hours south of Phoenix, was designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2015, and it speaks to the rich heritage in the city.
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