- U.S. News and World Report ranked the Grand Canyon as the fourth best place to visit in the United States.
- Sedona also was ranked as the 24th best place to go in the United States.
Everyone loves a good vacation, but for Arizonans, you won’t have to travel far to find some of the nation’s top vacation destinations.
America has so many beautiful sites to see. From big city attractions to secluded wildernesses, each state offers a diverse landscape. U.S. News and World Report has compiled a list of the top 30 places to visit in America from coast to coast, and two of them are in Arizona.
Not only was the Grand Canyon ranked No. 4, Sedona was also ranked the 24th best place to go in the United States.
Here’s why the two Arizona destinations made U.S. News and World Report’s list.
Why the Grand Canyon made the list
Aside from being one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is a bucket-list destination for many travelers.
The Canyon measures at about 277 river miles in length and is 18 miles wide and a mile deep. The Canyon is not only a tourist destination but also a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts.
The monument has a little bit for everyone. The South Rim is a popular tourist spot. It can be pretty busy, as the Canyon brings in about 4 million people a year. Nonetheless, it’s a perfect spot to snap some photos, get a souvenir, and bask in the view.
If you’re more of a hiker, the North Rim is for you. There are plenty of campgrounds there, and it is the starting point of the Grand Canyon’s rim-to-rim hike. The strenous trek takes hikers from the North Rim to the bottom of the Canyon then up to the South Rim. This hike is not for the faint of heart, but with proper training, it can be a once in a lifetime experience.
Why Sedona made the list
If you can’t get enough of those beautiful red rocks, Sedona has a town full of hikes and scenic views that you’ll love.
Sedona is also home to beautiful crisp weather, mountainous views and a unique local art scene.
Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most iconic hikes, with its unique rock formations and vortexes that hold special healing powers. If hiking isn’t your thing, Sedona is also known for its Pink Jeep Tours that take you to Sedona monuments and shops.
While in Sedona, you can also buy unique art from local artists at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.
