Fascinating red rock formations, utterly dramatic desert landscapes, unparalleled hiking trails, and vistas that look straight out of this world are just a few staples of a road trip through Utah.
If you’re currently in the planning stages of your Utah itinerary, chances are you’re feeling a tad bit overwhelmed with options. To help you out a little, we decided to craft a list of the absolute best destinations that need to be on your bucket list while road tripping around Utah’s desert magic!
The Ultimate Utah Road Trip for Some Serious Desert Magic
Zion National Park
Sandstone cliffs that come in all shades of color, congregations of desert wildlife you never even knew existed, and vistas that will take your breath away are what make Zion National Park a must in any Utah itinerary.
The best part? Zion’s got a little something for everyone. Whether you’re keen to hit a few hiking trails, try your hand at rock climbing, or test out your mountain biking skills, there are plenty of ways to explore Zion’s alluring terrain.
A surefire way to see some of the best this stunning park has to offer is by hiking The Narrows. It’s a 16-mile trail that will have you walking, hiking, and wading your way through a narrow canyon of red rock walls. Another must-do hike in Zion is Angel’s Landing. Which is a little shorter than The Narrows and will have you finishing the adventure at one of Zion’s most iconic views.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon’s allure lies in the fact that it’s home to the largest collection of hoodoos in the world. Hoodoos are large spires of rock that protrude from the ground. And seeing hundreds of them gathered together at Bryce Canyon’s magnificent amphitheater is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
Thanks to its relatively small size, Bryce Canyon can easily be explored in a day or two. One of the best ways to see its highlights is by driving down the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive. Which cuts right across the park and provides viewpoints to some of the main attractions without having to break a sweat.
If you’re up for a challenge, though, put your hiking shoes on and brave the Queen’s Garden Trail. Which will have you making your way through tremendous views of hoodoos down below as well as staggering natural archways you can walk under. Another must-do hike for those who would rather avoid the crowds is the Fairy Land Trail. This will give you an epic overview of the entire canyon and killer views of hoodoos.
Monument Valley
Being one of America’s most iconic landmarks, Monument Valley is known for its stunning sandstone buttes and maze-like hiking trails. Moreover, the entire area surrounding it brims with Old West and Native American history. Which adds a ton of value to its emblematic beauty.
Tip: Monument Valley is a wonderful spot to try your hand at horse riding! Whether you love the experience or not, you’re guaranteed to feel as though you’re living inside an Old West film!
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef is often overshadowed by Utah’s more popular national parks. But we highly recommend making time for it in your Utah itinerary. Especially if you’re into more adventurous experiences like backcountry hiking and mountaineering. If you’re not super keen on getting sweaty, though, there are scenic roads that cover all sections of the park. So there’s no excuse not to pay this gem of a national park a visit to check out its highlights!
What makes Capitol Reef so special is the fact that it’s home to the Waterpocket Fold, a “wrinkle” on the ground’s surface that extends almost 100 miles into the desert. Which creates a dramatically beautiful landscape of canyons, bridges, arches, and rugged cliffs. As if that weren’t enough, the park is also home to ancient petroglyphs, native history like no other. And a vast array of wildlife you wouldn’t expect to see in the desert.
Ever wondered what starring in a Western movie would feel like? Visiting Dead Horse Point will bring you pretty close to that feeling. In fact, Thelma and Louise’s final scene was filmed here. Which should be enough to convince you to visit this impressive State Park in Moab!
Although usually overlooked by travelers to Moab, Dead Horse Point is a collection of dramatic desert views and epic hiking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also throw in a day spent exploring caves or an afternoon trying your hand at horse riding.
Moreover, this is a great spot to experience what sleeping in the desert is like. Especially if you’ve always dreamed of sleeping in an authentic yurt!
Arches National Park
Natural red rock arches and exceptionally beautiful desert vistas are the staples of Arches National Park. With over 2000 natural arches and an array of strange rock formations to see, this mesmerizing desert oasis is a must on your Utah road trip.
Whether you’re feeling in the mood for hiking in the desert (make sure to do the Landscape and Double Arch trails!) or would much prefer to see the highlights from the comfort of your car, there’s no shortage of ways to explore Arches regardless of your travel style. If you’re feeling up for a serious adventure, make sure to snag a spot to hike Fiery Furnace, which is a maze of narrow passageways and towering sandstone walls that will leave you awe-struck.
Canyonlands National Park
Sweeping views of canyons, whacky-looking red rock formations lining the sky, and birds-eye views of the desert are just a few of the things that make Canyonlands National Park such a unique place to see.
Due to the fact that Canyonlands is absolutely humongous, you could actually focus your entire Utah trip just on it and still not get to see even half of the things it has to offer. So make sure you plan at least a few days to explore the main highlights!
The national park is divided into three sections: Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze. If you don’t have much time or aren’t very experienced with hiking under rough conditions, Island in the Sky is the best place for you to get an introduction to Canyonlands. Because the trails here are relatively short and easy to follow.
If you’re feeling up for a backcountry adventure, though, head to The Needles for some more challenging hikes that you’ll get pretty much all to yourself. If you’re the intrepid type, The Maze is the ultimate adventure for you. But do make sure you plan things to the T as it’s considered one of the most remote regions in the country!
In conclusion, it’s pretty much impossible to get bored while traveling in Utah. Even though the places mentioned in this post are just a few in the list of incredible spots this wonder state has to offer, these destinations are some of the most iconic and a pretty good way to get an introduction to the best it has to offer!
Have you ever visited any of these destinations in Utah? Which one was your favorite? Let me know all about it in the comments section below!
Commonly dubbed “The Gathering Place” because it’s the most populated and most frequently visited island in Hawaii, Oahu is a fantastic destination full of culture, nature, and, of course, fabulous beaches. The island is so diverse that you lounge on the beach, drive up a mountain, explore a volcano crater, and dine in a busy city – all in the same day!
Oahu has so many worthy locations that choosing exact destinations for exploring the island is certainly not an easy task, especially if you only have a few days for your trip. If you’re a first-timer, though, the best way to go is to create an itinerary that includes a bit of everything the island offers, with these 7 destinations being non-negotiables on the list!
7 Places in Hawaii You’ve Got To Visit
1. Honolulu
Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii. And a must-visit to live the state’s metropolitan side. Located on the island of Oahu, the third-largest island in the state, Honolulu is a bustling city right by the coast that offers an amazing variety of cultural, gastronomical, arts, entertainment options.
As if that weren’t enough reason to pay the capital a visit, all of that is mixed with paradise beaches, volcano scenery, and tropical flavor, making Honolulu a metropolis that truly has it all!
2. Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is Hawaii’s most iconic historical landmark. Whether you’re a history buff or not, visiting this place is an enriching experience that will help you learn more about one of the most pivotal events in United States history. As well as give you the opportunity to honor the victims of the infamous attack on the island that led to the country’s incursion into WWII.
We took our family and the girls in November of 2020, when the islands were just starting to reopen after the Pandemic. It was probably the best time to go since there weren’t many people. But we didn’t go out on the tour of the USS Arizona because I wasn’t sure I would be able to handle that. My grandparents met as a result of the attack on Pearl Harbor. So it has a real meaning and life effect for me. It’s very sobering as well as emotional being on the site and at the memorial. I’m glad we took our girls when they would remember it, not when they were too young.
3. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki is one of the world’s most visited beach destinations in the world. In fact, this 2-mile long stretch of beautiful shoreline receives roughly 5 million visitors every year!
Even if crowded tourist hotspots may not sound very appealing, dropping in for an hour or two during your stay on the island is highly recommended. Think soft white sand, clear blue waters, spectacular vistas, delicious food, exotic drinks, great shopping. And some of the best nightlife the entire island has to offer.
Moreover, make sure you visit on a Friday evening, when a firework show illuminates the night sky. It’s an experience meant to remind you you’ve made it to Hawaii!
4. Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head is Oahu’s most iconic natural landmark, one you can see in most of Honolulu’s postcards. A trek from the center of the volcano’s crater up to the summit is, well, almost an obligatory experience for everyone who visits the state capital.
The hike is relatively short (just under two miles), but the rapid elevation gain does make it a bit challenging. Once you get to the top, though, the views are spectacular, so the effort is well rewarded. Don’t let this deter you, though – the trail is paved the entire way and there are multiple benches and viewpoints spread along the way, making it a great hike for beginners summiting a mountain for the first time.
Fun fact: British sailors thought Diamond Head was so beautiful that climbed the volcano searching for diamonds during the 1800s. Even though they never actually found the gems, the name stayed!
5. Laniakea Beach
Commonly referred to as Turtle Beach because of the creatures that call this place their home, Laniakea Beach is a definite must when visiting Oahu.
For decades, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles have loved making Laniakea their favorite hangout spot, and watching these once-endangered critters frolicking in the ocean is a truly heart-warming experience. This place will give you the chance to perceive the island’s nature in its full splendor.
Most people don’t go much further than the “turtle area”, but if you walk about 100 yards, past the rocky trail along the shoreline, you’ll find yourself in Chun’s Reef, a beautiful and secluded beach that doesn’t see many visitors.
6. Manoa Falls
Falling a striking 150 feet down into the landscape, Manoa Falls gives the impression of being a lot higher when you stand at the bottom looking up at the seemingly endless water cascading down.
The trail leading to the waterfalls is quite an experience too, so take your time and enjoy the beautiful surroundings as you hike to get to them. Seriously, there are so many huge plants and exotic dwellings by the trail path that you will feel as though you’re in the middle of a rainforest!
7. Hanauma Bay
If you’re yearning for a quiet and crowd-free location surrounded by nature, Hanauma Bay has you covered. Set a short 30-minute drive from downtown Honolulu, this unique wine glass-shaped bay will give you the impression that you’re worlds away from the city and its hustle and bustle.
Snorkeling is the main attraction in Hanauma. Hundreds of marine species swim right under the waves, including lots of Hawaiian Honus, the green sea turtles that have made their home here!
If you’re in the mood for a hike, the Koko Bay Trail to the area’s volcanic crater is the way to go, especially if you’d like to explore the verdant hills that surround the bay and, of course, catch some really spectacular views.
Are you currently plotting your Oahu itinerary? Which of these 7 places are you looking forward to visiting the most? I’d love to know all about your plans in Oahu!
It’s no secret that road-tripping the Southwest is considered a love affair for desert lovers. Home to a vast array of varried landscapes and drool-worthy scenery, this region of the United States has a little bit of everything to offer visitors.
If you’re currently planning your first visit to this stunning region, it might be overwhelming to plan the process. Seriously, with so many astounding destinations to choose from, how do you even begin narrowing down where to go?
Here’s a little reality check for you: One single trip to the Southwest isn’t enough to even start scratching the surface. The good, news, though? You’ll become addicted to traveling the region. And will definitely start plotting a return as soon as you get back home. Which is how I ended up moving from Indiana to Arizona back in 2013 :).
From Moab’s awe-inspiring desert charm to the never-ending sand dunes of White Sands National Parks, these are the 6 places you need to visit in Southwest USA to tackle on your road trip!
6 Places You Need to Visit in Southwest USA
1. Moab, Utah
Ever wondered what a trip to Mars would look like? Even though visiting outer space isn’t a possibility (yet), a visit to Moab is as close as you can get to it. Think enormous sandstone spires towering high above the sky, weird rock formations lining the panorama, and red rock canyons decorating the scenery to get a pretty good idea of what visiting Moab’s national parks is like.
Whether you’re keen to tackle easy trails to get a taste of what hiking in the desert is like or you want to challenge your legs on a serious backpacking adventure, what makes Moab one of the best destinations for first-timers in the Southwest is the fact that it’s got a little something for everyone to enjoy.
From going in search of natural arches at Arches National Park to doing some serious backcountry hiking in The Needles District at Canyonlands or trying your hand at rock climbing, there is no shortage of bucket-list-worthy things to do at this magical desert haven.
2. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
Ancient petroglyphs spread all over the place, red sandstone rock formations illuminating the valley, and an epic landscape coated in hues of pink, red, and orange? Yes, please!
Set in the heart of the Mojave Desert, Valley of Fire is home to 46,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone. Which make the entire landscape look almost like it’s, well… on fire.
Even though its name may not make it sound like the friendliest place to visit, Valley of Fire State Park actually happens to be one of the best destinations for first-timers hiking in the desert. That’s because most of the trails here are short and sweet.
Choosing what trails to take depends on your interests. But for the best petroglyph sightings, the Atlatl Rock Trail and Mouse’s Tank Hike are superb options. If you’re feeling more up in the mood for some seriously striking vistas, the Fire Wave Hike and the Rainbow Vista Trail are both guaranteed to get your mouth dropping right to the ground.
If you’re not too keen on hiking, though, that’s cool! You can always check out the park’s main highlights by driving down Mouse’s Tank Road. Which provides some of the top viewpoints in the park so you can check out the highlights without having to break a sweat.
3. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Although small, White Sands National Park is home to a vast array of epic sights and fun things to do. Set in the heart of the Tularosa Basin, this national park is home to 275 square miles of wave-like dunes of gypsum sand. This makes it the world’s largest gypsum dune field. Fun fact: Unlike regular sand, gypsum sand doesn’t get very hot. Which means it’s perfectly comfortable to walk barefoot on the dunes at White Sands!
During your visit, make sure to walk on the Interlude Boardwalk to discover the flora and fauna of the area (yep, you wouldn’t expect it in the desert. But lots of animals and plants call White Sands their home, including foxes, bobcats, and porcupines).
Another super fun thing to do while visiting is to buy a sled and host a sliding competition with your travel buddies. Before you leave, make sure you also book a spot at the Sunset Stroll. Which is a ranger-guided walk where you’ll get to learn all about White Sands’s unique geology. As an added bonus, the program is timed to finish at sunset. Which will give you the chance to get a breath-taking view of the sun disappearing into the mountains.
4. Sedona, Arizona
A long, long time ago, geological forces cut rifts deep into what we now know as the Colorado Plateau. As a result, Sedona’s incredible landscape was formed. Desert spires piercing right through the clouds, striking river canyons. And labyrinths of red rock formations are just a few of the sights that make Sedona such an awe-inspiring place to witness.
During your visit, don’t miss out on ticking off a few of the hiking trails on the menu (there are more than a hundred of them on offer), camping (or glamping, of course) under a billion stars, and get your nerd on by visiting a few of the museums in town to learn all about Sedona’s history and heritage (The Sedona Heritage Museum is an absolute must in your itinerary!)
5. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Tucked high above in the cliffs of western Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most unique destinations to visit in the Southwest, especially if you’re keen on learning about the native history of the area.
Even though no one really knows what led to the collapse of the area’s society way back in time, today, you can learn all about Ancestral Puebloans by exploring the ruins they left behind.
Don’t let its small size fool you. Bryce Canyon may be one of the tiniest national parks in the United States, but it still has plenty of wonderful things to see and do.
Hoodoos (also known as fairy chimneys) are the staple of Bryce Canyon, and the best way to see them is by bearing the famous Queen’s Garden to Navajo Loop trail. Even though it’s not actually very long, this hiking trail will have you winding your way through rock tunnels that look out of this world, pine forests so beautiful you won’t believe, and the iconic sandstone hoodoos that look as though they belong on an entirely different planet.
If you’re not too keen on going on a hike, though, Bryce Canyon can also be explored from the comfort of your car. Grab your keys and drive all the way down to Rainbow Viewpoint. On the way back, go slowly and stop at the 13 viewpoints on offer, all of which are guaranteed to leave ooh-aah-ing.
I hope this list of the best destinations in the Southwest helped you plot the perfect itinerary for your visit. Honestly? An entire lifetime would not be enough to tick off every place in your bucket list, but these destinations are a wonderful way to start getting acquainted with the area (trust me on this one: you’ll definitely be back for more Southwest adventures!)
Spending your vacation in a different place can make you feel alive, stress-free, peaceful, and most importantly, glad that you exist to experience all the pleasures of life. In short, traveling can give you a lot of epiphanies that might have a tremendous impact on you. You can have memories that last for the rest of your life.
No doubt that some places can leave you a lot more than memories, but pause, think – what are the things you’re leaving behind? How can you impact the places and the people who live in the place? Are you making a bigger impact on their environment than your memories?
Don’t fool yourself saying – Nothing. The impact of your choices is significant upon several people. That’s what ethical traveling is about. It’s about being mindful of your choices and their consequences on other parties.
For instance, you might love to go for an elephant ride, but did you ever wonder as to what it does to the animal’s life? If you think about it, you’re only encouraging animal abuse without realization.
Ergo, the takeaway is that ethical travel is being conscious and considerate while making travel choices. So, if you want to follow the righteous path, here are a few tips that can help.
10 tips for ethical travel
1. Support local businesses
By availing services of big international brands, you are only making the rich richer. Not only that, you are contributing to an increased carbon footprint. Wondering how?
Every demand that these international brands get, is followed by excessive exploitation and consumption of natural resources – such as fuel for transportation.
Having said that, opting for local services – such as dining in a local restaurant, and shopping from local markets would, etc. – this will be a relatively sustainable choice. You’ll be also aiding such ventures financially. Not only are you supporting the local economy to continue for future generations to enjoy, you also often times get to live and experience the location like a local, my favorite way to travel.
2. Use resources consciously
Traveling doesn’t mean you get to use resources limitlessly. You might not be charged for extra consumption but you will definitely consume resources excessively that we do not have in abundance, to begin with. This includes your hotel’s AC, TVs, lights, and other items such as paper napkins that are produced by cutting down trees.
Our first experience with this was when we traveled to Mo’orea for the first leg of our honeymoon in 2015. We had to insert our room key into a slot by the door to have the electricity come on otherwise it didn’t work. It made us more conscious of the energy we were using and reminded us that when we left the room, everything would turn off. This was our cute little hut! –>
Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.
3. Embrace local culture
Everything is not about money; it’s about respect that you owe to the culture you are a part of when you are traveling. Embracing local culture might not affect you tremendously, but it will, to the locals. They will not only be happier, and smiling, but they will be aided financially if you are supportive of their culture.
So, every time you are traveling, have a taste of the culture you are in. Even if it is as simple as trying their authentic dishes, going to tours, engaging with them, or indulging in cultural activities.
4. Respect the wildlife
Sometimes it can be a tug of war between respecting a culture and respecting the wildlife. In that case, go with wildlife. For instance, in some cultures, camel rides, elephant rides are considered integral, but they are also animal abuse – you can’t support that, can you?
5. Look what you can give out
When you are traveling, it’s a great idea to give tips to those who serve you. You can of course support them financially – some would need it. However, be mindful. Don’t always give out money as some would misuse it. If you can, try to give out food, or clothes to those in need in that scenario.
6. Learn the language and respect the culture
Perhaps learning the local language would not be beneficial for you. But it’s okay. You can simply learn the language out of respect for the culture. With all the technological advances, downloading an app to help you translate or even learn the language of the place you are visiting is very easy. It even helps people, like my husband, who hasn’t ever spoken a word other than English to understand at the very least, what they are eating.
7. Be mindful of somebody’s privacy and convenience
I know meeting different people, being a part of different cultures can be exotically exciting; but being mindful of people’s privacy is equally important. You cannot do things at your convenience – this includes clicking photographs of people without their permission, bargaining beyond a limit, asking locals for favors they might not be up for.
8. Book tours
When you want to know about a culture, tours are your best shot. Thus, if you decide to take tours, go for local operators or family-owned companies to make sure the funds can be used by the local community.
A great way to experience the local culture is by booking with a local, and you can do so even easier than before with AirBnB Experiences. I myself am a host for AirBnB on the housing side. There is this whole other side to AirBnB that lets you pick from photo tours, cooking classes in the culture, painting, and other experiences depending on the location. We visited Oahu in November 2020 right after they reopened and found a cute couple who took our family photos for Christmas. It was really easy. They made the recommendation of the perfect spot, the right time for sunset, and were photographers so we got professional photos in an authentic spot, like this one here –>>>>>>>
9. Buy souvenirs
When you buy souvenirs, you do more than just taking a piece of memory with you. You support local artists and vendors that need the money more than you can realize.
Our favorite souvenirs to buy are wine, coffee, honey, chocolates, nuts, and actual things we can consume and enjoy back at home with family and friends about and share about our experience when we were traveling. It helps bring a sense that those around us were also included in the travel, and creates a memory for them. Not just a t shirt or stuffed animal that they will soon grow out of.
10. Be polite to the locals
Politeness is an underrated quality. Nonetheless, it is what you should do when you are engaging with locals. While you are at it, it’s equally essential to watch your body language than words and tone. Sometimes, even when you don’t intend to, your body language can make you look different. That’s the last thing you would want, right? So be mindful of every word, and every expression.
Before we leave,
Cheers to you if you already follow these tips and identify yourself as an ethical traveler. If you do not, it’s okay as long as you’re willing to make a change. Remember, it’s important to ensure you are leaving the place you visit as good or even better when you leave than when you arrived. We want travel to be sustainable and ethical for years and generations to come, so make sure to keep that in mind when traveling.
If you’re looking for a great place to eat with your family, look no further than Jacy & Dakota in Downtown Phoenix! This new restaurant offers a wide variety of food options that will please everyone in your group. They also have a great kid’s menu that is sure to keep the little ones happy. Plus, Jacy & Dakota is located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, so you can enjoy all the sights and sounds this vibrant area has to offer!
My family’s favorite places to dine in Downtown Phoenix | Jacy & Dakota
Jacy & Dakota
Location: The Westin Hotel Downtown Phoenix
333 N Central Ave, Phoenix AZ
Phone: (602) 407-1114
Hours of Operation:
Breakfast
Mon–Fri 6:00 am–10:30 am
Sat, Sun 7:00 am–12:00 pm
Bar
Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm
Fri, Sat 3:00 pm–11:00 pm
Happy Hour
Daily 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
Dinner
Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
Kid’s Menu? Yes! Kids are welcome at Jacy & Dakota with their parents or guardians. They can order off our menu for $12 per child. There are plenty of great options, including a grass-fed burger, chicken fingers, fries, mac & cheese, and more!
Vibe: Feels like you escaped the desert to Tulum
The atmosphere at Jacy & Dakota is laid-back and beachy, with white walls, wood accents, and string lights. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing or shopping in Downtown Phoenix. You don’t realize you are blocks away from the sporting venues, across the street from the Tram, or even right next to the city bus stop. It’s incredible once you step inside the walls of
Braised Pork Shank — the presentation is amazing!
Jacy & Dakota!
Price Range: $11-30
Jacy & Dakota offers something for everyone when it comes to a price point. You can find a great meal for under $30, or splurge on something special. No matter what you choose, you won’t be disappointed!
Dress Code: Casual Chic and Family Friendly
Menu: Made Sharable and Bite-Sized to be enjoyed by many or by yourself
Beef Tip Tostadas with vegetarian and dairy free options
The menu at Jacy & Dakota is designed to be sharable. You can order a bunch of small plates and share them with your friends, or order a couple of larger plates and have your own feast! The menu is also bite-sized, so you can try lots of different items without getting full too fast. The menu is also designed to be gluten-free and vegetarian friendly, so there’s something everyone can enjoy! If you have an allergy, make sure to tell your server and the kitchen will accommodate the best possible or the service staff can make recommendations based on your dietary needs.
Don’t forget, you can host your parties with Jacy & Dakota, they can create a special menu for you, or you can pick and choose off of their menu. A few times a year, the menu is switched up to accommodate the local fresh fruits and vegetable offerings as well as the seasons.
On our visit, we enjoyed the Beef Tip Tostadas (Which Chef Brady made vegetarian and dairy-
Roasted Bone Marrow and Fried Green Tomatoes and Burrata
free for me), Roasted Bone Marrow and Oxtail (Steve LOVED this one!), Fried Green Tomatoes and Burrata, Braised Pork Shank (the girls enjoyed the presentation of this one as well as Leila couldn’t get enough of it!), Three Sister’s Bowl off of the Eat Well Menu (Chef Brady created this recipe at Jacy & Dakota and now it’s served on all Westin menus nationwide!), and Apple Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
If you would like to take a peek at their full menu options, they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can see here.
Blankets: Available for cooler winter nights and for cuddling by fire pits
Jacy & Dakota offers cozy blankets for guests to use on cooler winter nights. You can also enjoy a fire pit while you eat! What better way to keep warm than with delicious food and drinks? Such a fun, unique experience!
If you choose to not sit outside, indoor seating is also available. We chose to sit outside and the
Three Sisters Bowl
girls thoroughly enjoyed being able to sit on a long couch and cuddle with a blanket. Not to worry — if you wondered if the blankets were cleaned, I also had the same concern and Chef Brady assured me they bring out clean, sanitized blankets to each guest and don’t put them back in rotation until they have been cleaned and sanitized again!
Desserts: Made in House by a Pastry Chef
The desserts at Jacy & Dakota are also made in-house by a pastry chef, and they are delicious! We enjoyed the house-made apple pie with a scoop of local Vanilla Ice Cream. The pie was just like my grandma used to make growing up, complete with the lattice crust!
Jacy & Dakota offers a wide variety of sharable, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly dishes as
Housemade Apple Pie and local AZ ice cream
well as delicious desserts. You can enjoy your meal outside at one of the fire pits or inside in the restaurant. No matter what you choose, Jacy & Dakota is an excellent choice for family dining downtown! Would you consider going to Jacy & Dakota when you visit Downtown Phoenix with or without your family?
When it comes to awe-inspiring desert scenery, Arizona pretty much takes the cake.
Boasting some of the most iconic national parks in the country, six national forests, and a whopping thirty one state parks, it makes perfect sense if you’re feeling a bit defeated while plotting your Arizona itinerary. Seriously – How do you even choose where to go in a state that is pretty much a mecca for unparalleled views?
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems that come in all shades of colors, these are the 7 destinations in Arizona you need to put on your travel bucket list. Not only will visiting these places give you a pretty well-rounded glimpse into the best this magical state has to offer, but they will also get you inspired to come back for more.
7 Bucketlist Destinations to Visit in Arizona
1. Sedona
Way, way back in time, geological forces created deep rifts into the Colorado Plateau and Sedona’s majestic landscape was formed. With enormous desert spires lining the landscape, river canyons as far as the eye can see. And a maze of red rock formations, a visit to Sedona is as awe-inspiring as it can get.
The best part? Sedona can be explored in a million ways. For many, this region of Arizona is the ideal spot to get a pretty good introduction to desert hiking. But if you’re more into culture and heritage, there’s a wide array of museums and centers ready to be explored, too!
A big plus of Sedona is its very close driving distance for those visiting the Phoenix valley. You can travel to Sedona and back to the valley in a day. And have ample time to explore, hike, eat, and come home without feeling like you have to rush!
2. The Wave
The Wave is probably one of the most intriguing places in the United States. Located right on the border of Arizona and Utah, it may just be one of the most sought-after hiking trails in the entire world.
What makes The Wave so unique, you ask? A rainbow of orange and rusty tone plastered all over the rocks. Which make the landscape resemble a sea of shimmering desert hues.
The Wave hike is only 6.4 miles long. But due to the conditions of the area and heat, it can get pretty strenuous even for expert hikers. Moreover, due to its popularity, it’s pretty difficult to snag permits to hike The Wave. So make sure you start planning your visit as early as possible as this is not a hike you can do spontaneously!
3. White Pocket
If you’re keen on checking out a hidden Arizona gem, White Pocket is just the hike you’re after!
If you couldn’t snag a permit to hike The Wave, White Pocket is a pretty good alternative (or addition) to your itinerary. Made up of whacky-looking Navajo sandstone formations, White Pocket is a sea of pink, orange, and red hues that will have you wondering if you were transported right into the heart of Mars.
4. Havasupai
7 Bucketlist Destinations to Visit in Arizona
Turquoise-colored water cascading down from bright red rocks is what make Havasupai one of Arizona’s most stunning places. Seriously, getting to swim in the turquoise blue waters with the road of the waterfalls echoing on the canyon walls will make you feel as though you’ve been transported into the movie Avatar.
The Havasu Canyon boasts five waterfalls in total: Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, Havasu Falls, New Navajo Falls, and Fifty Foot Falls. Each one more strikingly gorgeous than the last. The best way to see them? By going on a hike! Even though hiking in the desert is quite a challenge, you’ll be able to stop at each waterfall to get refreshed. Which isn’t too shabby, if you ask me!
As a note, keep in mind that Havasupai is set on Native Land and is kept by the Havasupai Tribe. This means it’s extremely important to be respectful of their culture. And, if possible, learn a bit about their heritage. So you can better understand the land you’re walking on during your visit. Moreover, visiting Havasupai requires a permit that isn’t very easy to get. So try applying for it as early as possible to try to snag yours!
** Havasupai hasn’t been reopened after the Pandemic. And probably won’t until at least summer of 2022 so take note of this when looking at this destination.**
5. Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim Section
Visiting the Grand Canyon may sound a little cliché. But the fact that it’s one of the most iconic sights in the USA. And a natural wonder if the world makes it a must-see in your Arizona bucket list.
If you’re the type of traveler who likes to do things a little differently and would much rather avoid the crowds, you’ll be delighted to know that you can totally visit the Grand Canyon and do things a little differently than most travelers do. While most visitors focus on the South Rim of the canyon, there are actually a ton of off-the-beaten-path trails and activities on the lesser-visited North Rim. This region of the park is considered a bit more adventurous and is often overlooked by tourists. Which means you’ll get to experience the Grand Canyon in a more secluded way!
If you visit Arizona in the winter and want to take a visit to the Grand Canyon, make sure to pack winter clothes. The elevation is much higher and winter happens quite a bit more than other areas of the state.
6. Antelope Canyon
Arizona is home to some seriously stunning slot canyons. And Antelope Canyon might just be the king of them all. This stunning canyon was created by harsh floods flowing into the cracks of sandstone in the area. Which created a spectacular swirl of colors that brim to life when light reflects off the rocks. With light beams brimming from high canyon walls, Antelope Canyon may just be one of the most photogenic sights in entire Arizona.
Plus, if you want to get off-the-beaten-path during your visit, you can also check out the lesser-visited adjoining canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, which is just as stunning but is made up of narrower passageways, so you’ll find yourself twisting and turning to get through the walls.
7. Petrified Forest National Park
7 Bucketlist Destinations to Visit in Arizona
Some 225 million years ago, heavy floods brought trees into the area. Time passed, volcanic eruptions covered the dead trees in silica-rich ash. And the logs were petrified and buried for centuries to come. Today, the logs have been exposed again. Making the entire scene looks like a rainbow of sparkly colors that will have your jaw dropping right on the ground.
A few must-dos while visiting Petrified Forest include checking out Crystal Forest, where colorful logs adorn the path, walking along the rim to check out the stunning views of the park’s Painted Desert, and hiking the alluring Blue Mesa Trail, where you’ll get to walk through badlands that look as they belong in a completely different planet. If you’re keen on a really spectacular sight, make sure you also walk down the Giant Logs Trail. Which does get a bit crowded but boasts a display of the largest logs in the park.
Moreover, if you’re interested in learning more about the region’s Native American heritage, make sure to pay Newspaper Rock a visit. While here, you’ll get to see a display of over 600 petroglyphs, some of which are as old as two thousand years!
I hope this list of the best destinations in Arizona helped you come up with the perfect road trip itinerary! Even though Arizona is home to a vast array of things to see, these seven spots are the perfect place to start getting a taste of Arizona’s desert magic.
Have you ever visited Arizona? I can’t lie, there are a few places on this list still on my own bucketlist! What are some other incredible destinations that are musts in everyone’s itinerary? Let me know your favorite spots in the comments section below!
existed, and vistas that will take your breath away are what make Zion National Park a must in any Utah itinerary.
are large spires of rock that protrude from the ground. And seeing hundreds of them gathered together at Bryce Canyon’s magnificent amphitheater is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
and maze-like hiking trails. Moreover, the entire area surrounding it brims with Old West and Native American history. Which adds a ton of value to its emblematic beauty.
making time for it in your Utah itinerary. Especially if you’re into more adventurous experiences like backcountry hiking and mountaineering. If you’re not super keen on getting sweaty, though, there are scenic roads that cover all sections of the park. So there’s no excuse not to pay this gem of a national park a visit to check out its highlights!
pretty close to that feeling. In fact, Thelma and Louise’s final scene was filmed here. Which should be enough to convince you to visit this impressive State Park in Moab!
With over 2000 natural arches and an array of strange rock formations to see, this mesmerizing desert oasis is a must on your Utah road trip.
on it and still not get to see even half of the things it has to offer. So make sure you plan at least a few days to explore the main highlights!
side. Located on the island of Oahu, the third-largest island in the state, Honolulu is a bustling city right by the coast that offers an amazing variety of cultural, gastronomical, arts, entertainment options. 
buff or not, visiting this place is an enriching experience that will help you learn more about one of the most pivotal events in United States history. As well as give you the opportunity to honor the victims of the infamous attack on the island that led to the country’s incursion into WWII. 
every year! 
Honolulu’s postcards. A trek from the center of the volcano’s crater up to the summit is, well, almost an obligatory experience for everyone who visits the state capital. 
their home, Laniakea Beach is a definite must when visiting Oahu. 
seemingly endless water cascading down. 
Honolulu, this unique wine glass-shaped bay will give you the impression that you’re worlds away from the city and its hustle and bustle.
as close as you can get to it. Think enormous sandstone spires towering high above the sky, weird rock formations lining the panorama, and red rock canyons decorating the scenery to get a pretty good idea of what visiting Moab’s national parks is like. 
coated in hues of pink, red, and orange? Yes, please! 
Tularosa Basin, this national park is home to 275 square miles of wave-like dunes of gypsum sand. This makes it the world’s largest gypsum dune field. 
incredible landscape was formed. Desert spires piercing right through the clouds, striking river canyons. And labyrinths of red rock formations are just a few of the sights that make Sedona such an awe-inspiring place to witness.
in the Southwest, especially if you’re keen on learning about the native history of the area. 
plenty of wonderful things to see and do.
increased 
TVs, lights, and other items such as paper napkins that are produced by cutting down trees.
some would need it. However, be mindful. Don’t always give out money as some would misuse it. If you can, try to give out food, or clothes to those in need in that scenario.
need the money more than you can realize.
majestic landscape was formed. With enormous desert spires lining the landscape, river canyons as far as the eye can see. And a maze of red rock formations, a visit to Sedona is as awe-inspiring as it can get.
border of Arizona and Utah, it may just be one of the most sought-after hiking trails in the entire world. 
king of them all. This stunning canyon was created by harsh floods flowing into the cracks of sandstone in the area. Which created a spectacular swirl of colors that brim to life when light reflects off the rocks. With light beams brimming from high canyon walls, Antelope Canyon may just be one of the most photogenic sights in entire Arizona.
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