The city of Phoenix sparkles at twilight

Photo credit: Arizona Office of Tourism

Mother Nature has not told another story more dramatic than Arizona's. Vast and unspoiled, these are not merely beautiful landscapes, but exceptional ones. Free-standing, sandstone spires rise a thousand feet from the desert floor. Dark green, pine forests reveal vast fields of wildflowers dancing in the wind. While jaw-dropping sunsets provide artists from around the globe with a new palette of colors. And then there's the Grand Canyon — one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

From gesturing saguaros and undulating sand dunes to cobalt lakes and snow-dressed peaks, no other state can claim such amazing biodiversity, four-season beauty and larger-than-life natural contrasts than Arizona.

Blessed with perennially sunny skies and a mild climate, the Grand Canyon State prides itself on a relaxing, open-air lifestyle. A seamless blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication that bestows an unsaid grace. The state has a recharge-your-batteries energy and untucked stylishness, while Arizonans themselves, not surprisingly, are inviting, friendly and casual. Entertainment options are as wide open as the landscape — first-rate golf, esteemed spas, fine outdoor dining and an unpretentious night life. And with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, winter visitors can wake up and ski in a snow-blanketed wonderland and be basking poolside by lunchtime, making Arizona an ideal destination year-round.

Grand Canyon National Park
More than one mile to the canyon floor and about 277 miles from end to end, visitors to the Grand Canyon can backpack, bird watch, camp, river raft, fish, stargaze and observe wildlife. Hikers have several options to reach the bottom, including the 9.3-mile Bright Angel Trail or the 7.3-mile South Kaibab Trail. The canyon's famous, sure-footed mules offer a less strenuous journey.

Monument Valley
Lastly, an adventure in Arizona wouldn't be complete without a drive through Monument Valley on the Navajo Nation. The unforgettable spires and buttes have graced the big screen for years, from John Wayne movies to the more recent Vertical Limit. Enjoy a self-guided tour or join Native American guides on horseback or off-roading.

Golf
Visitors to Arizona have always relished in world-class golf. In fact, there are more than 300 golf courses across the state, some garnering such honors as Travel & Leisure's "Top Ten U.S. Golf Courses" and Golf Digest's "Top 50 Courses for Women." With that many courses you can always find one with good tee times and within your budget, but planning ahead is always recommended.

Spas
Chances are, not far from the fairways, there's a five-star spa. Ever tried a papaya enzyme peel or an indigenous Native American treatment? Whether you seek a day spa or a multi-day immersion, you'll find some of America's best spas (including Travel & Leisure favorites) in the Grand Canyon State. Specializing in complete physical and mental rejuvenation, the spas offer a range of treatments and facilities — from red-rock havens to Native American-inspired sanctuaries.

Native American Nations
For more than a thousand years, Native American farmers inhabited much of present-day Arizona. Today, the state's 22 Native American tribes offer a number of recreational opportunities, outdoor adventures, casinos and scenery which make their reservations — inhabiting about 30% of the state — highly sought-after vacation spots. From blue waters to snow-capped mountains, slot canyons to slender spires, Arizona's Native American nations give visitors a chance to honor their history, culture and traditions.

Our Hispanic Culture
The Hispanic culture has become as much a part of Arizona as the Saguaro cactus. San Xavier del Bac Mission, established by Franciscan monks in the early 1700s, marked the beginning of a long-time infusion of Latin language, food, music and tradition. Today, Phoenix thrives with authentic Hispanic art, architecture, entertainment and eateries. While Tucson has its own Hispanic cultural offerings such as the Miriachi Festival, art galleries like Southwestern painter Ted De Grazia's, and for those who like to barter, shopping in Nogales just across the border.

Featured Arizona Destinations:

Phoenix Scottsdale

Tucson

Grand Canyon

Photo credits: (left) Greater Phoenix CVB; (middle) Corel; (right) PhotoDisc

• Flagstaff
• Phoenix
• Scottsdale
• Sedona
• Tucson