Put these 3 Arizona items on your bucket list. Why travel experts recommend them

People from around the world travel here to revel in the natural beauty found only in the desert southwest. Arizona is renowned for its exceptional ecological diversity, supporting a wide array of habitats and species.

A full moon rises over the East Mitten in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Arizona.

If you yearn for snow, you can travel two hours north from the Valley and enjoy a white winter. Craving some R&R by the beach? Take a trip to Lake Havasu City, located three hours northwest of Phoenix.

Moon Travel Guides published a "USA Travel Bucket List," suggesting the top three things to do in each state, with those being a mixture of enjoying nature and exploring the history and culture of the state.

Here are three Arizona must-dos.

Looking out over the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the world's ultimate bucket list destinations, a geologic spectacle that must be seen to be fully appreciated. It's located in northern Arizona, encompassing about 278 miles of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands.

The Grand Canyon had the third most visitors of any national park in the United States in 2024, with more than 4.9 million people stopping by.

The Grand Canyon became a tourist destination in the early 20th century when the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway opened a connection to the South Rim in 1901 with a line from Williams to Grand Canyon Village.

Grand Canyon Railway is another popular way to take in one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The heritage train takes people from a historic depot in the Route 66 city of Williams to the Grand Canyon's South Rim. The train ride is 4½ hours round trip, and riders have three hours to explore the South Rim.

Exploring Sedona

Located in the northern Verde Valley, Sedona is one of the best-known tourist destinations in the Southwest. The city is home to just under 10,000 permanent residents but welcomes nearly 3 million visitors each year.

Sedona offers plenty of hiking opportunities for every skill-level. For a breathtaking view and significant elevation gain, hike Devil's Bridge. Or, if you'd prefer a longer, more tame hike across a creek, the West Fork trail in Oak Creek is another popular option.

There are an abundance of things to do in Sedona, whether you're vacationing or taking a day trip. Visitors marvel at the towering geological formations such as Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and Snoopy Rock.

Sedona is also often regarded as Arizona's "New Age Capital", primarily due to the belief that some landmarks are vortexes with spiritual energy and healing properties.

Scenic drive through Monument Valley

Located in northern Arizona, Monument Valley is a collection of crimson and orange mesas and sandstone buttes maintained by Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation. It is located off the US 163, just north of the Arizona-Utah state line.

Monument Valley gained popularity in the 1930s after director John Ford chose the location for his 1939 western film “Stagecoach.” The region would be featured many more times, making it a symbol of the American west.

Many visitors opt to drive into Utah and make a stop at the popular “Forrest Gump point,” which is located just outside Monument Valley on US 163.

The Monument Valley 17-mile loop is only accessible by vehicle, according to Navajo Parks and Recreation. Visitors can pay the entry fee and purchase a guided tour upon entering the park.

Recreational vehicles, camper vans, motorcycles, large SUVs and off-road vehicles are prohibited on the valley drive.

While hiking is an option, visitors will be asked to sign in and out to use the trails. Hikers should wear comfortable clothes, prepare for unpredictable weather and stay hydrated.