What better time to enjoy the wonder and natural beauty of Arizona than on Valentine’s Day? This Feb. 14 marks Arizona’s 112th anniversary as a state. To celebrate, Arizona Office of Tourism shares 14 favorite reasons to fall (even deeper) in love with the Grand Canyon State.
1. Lovely Weather? Swipe Right.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t lead the list with one of the top draws to our state: incredible weather. From the pine-scented fall breezes in Flagstaff, to refreshing spring waterfall dips at Havasupai Falls, to al fresco dining and just relaxing, Arizona’s weather makes living here dreamy.
2. Pining For Love in Kaibab National Forest
Arizona is home to the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest, located in Kaibab National Forest, bordering both the north and south rims of the Grand Canyon. The forest is a wonder to see and smell with a scent reminiscent of butterscotch and vanilla.
3. Falling Inn Love at The Hermosa Inn
The nearly 100-year-old hacienda favorite mingles Southwestern charm with romantic comforts, stunning Camelback Mountain views and convenient access to luxury dining, golfing and relaxation. It’s no surprise the Inn was named Arizona’s No. 1 Best Resort Hotel in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2023.
4. Monumental History
The Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni—Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument comprises more than 900,000 acres of land around Grand Canyon National Park. In addition to being an amazing place to visit, the new national monument preserves historic, cultural, natural, scientific and recreational values.
5. Love is in the Air
Taking in the view of our state from the Arizona Gondola at Arizona Snowbowl, a ski lift that offers spectacular vistas from nearly 12,000 feet, is a can’t-miss experience. Spot a cinder cone volcanic field, the red rocks of Sedona and Flagstaff’s San Francisco Peaks. Non-skiers can also hop on the Grand Canyon Express (Arizona’s only high speed six-person chairlift) to admire the view.
6. Busy in Bisbee
Enjoy free spirits and festivals year round in this Southern Arizona vintage hub. Pirates of the High Desert Weekend brings the laughs, while the Bisbee 1,000 The Great Stair Climb fun run brings the groans as runners challenge the city’s famous sets of outdoor, hillside stairs. Fourth of July festivities include offbeat mining competitions and bed races.
7. Lake Life
What desert? Lake living is no stranger to Arizona residents and visitors. From Lake Pleasant and Saguaro to Lake Havasu and its reconstructed London Bridge, there’s plenty of water fun to enjoy across our state.
8. Serenity, One Spa Treatment at a Time
Relax. Rejuvenate. Reconnect. From the Santa Catalina Mountains’ Miraval Arizona to Tucson’s Canyon Ranch, wellness seekers and relaxation aficionados across the globe trust Arizona’s world-class spa resorts to fully indulge their senses and unwind.
9. “Lettuce” Date
Foodies and culinary know-it-alls appreciate Yuma as America’s winter lettuce capital and as a haven for Medjool date groves. Yum.
10. A Whole New World
The University of Arizona’s Biosphere 2 is the world’s largest Earth science experiment, with cutting-edge research examining sustainability, environmental conservation and our impact on the planet. Fun fact: Biosphere 1 is the Earth itself!
11. Love Birds
From the whiskered screech owls of Cave Creek to the beloved black-capped Chickadees in the cottonwood groves, Arizona is full of beautiful birds. For those who want to experience native bird watching, check out Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert.
12. Locals Only
Looking for the latest insider tips and experiences at a world-class resort? Enjoy spa day passes, refined offerings and exclusive perks? Then membership in The Global Ambassador Club at the new Global Ambassador Hotel is a must for you.
13. Appreciate AZ
One of the best ways to enjoy Arizona’s stunning vistas, magnificent natural wonders and ecosystems is to ensure the experience is available for future generations. Appreciate AZ with conservation practices to ensure our iconic attractions are here for centuries to come.
14. Epic Adventures
Arizona offers more than 40,000 miles of terrain for off-roading excursions. Feel the rush to protect recreational access with OHV guides.