During winter, Arizona offers many different places to visit. Many go up North for a White Christmas, or stay in The Valley for Festive Holiday events, such as Ice skating, farms, Christmas Light Seeing, and other seasonal things to do. Additionally, here are 6 different destinations/places that you should take a trip to during the holidays!
Sedona’s Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village becomes a magical paradise during the holiday season. Glowing lights decorate the cobblestone streets, while specialty stores and art galleries provide distinct presents and seasonal happenings. Guests can relish live music, hot drinks, and the inviting ambiance of the village, while close hiking paths, such as Cathedral Rock, offer stunning vistas of red rock cliffs gently covered in snow.
The Grand Canyon Village at the South Rim is an enchanting place for a vacation retreat. Staying at renowned lodges like El Tovar or Bright Angel Lodge allows guests to enjoy warm fireplaces and sweeping canyon vistas. Winter attracts fewer visitors, making it ideal for serene hikes, photography, and tranquil contemplation among the stunning snow-covered cliffs.
Flagstaff provides a traditional winter wonderland at Arizona Snowbowl. The ski area is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while the village shines with holiday lights and features festive parades and activities. Guests can also relish stargazing at Lowell Observatory or embark on picturesque drives through the nearby pine woods for an ideal winter getaway.
Tucson’s Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum honors the holiday season with its yearly “Desert Nights, Holiday Lights” celebration, showcasing millions of illuminated lights that brighten the desert paths. At night, visitors can appreciate the charm of desert wildlife and discover local sites such as the historic San Xavier del Bac Mission. The warm temperatures of the desert create a pleasant and distinctive vacation spot, featuring both cultural and natural attractions.
In Phoenix and Scottsdale, the Desert Botanical Garden features the famous “Las Noches de las Luminarias,” where numerous luminarias illuminate desert trails.
Old Town Scottsdale enhances the experience with seasonal markets, ice skating, and joyful art displays. Featuring luxury resorts, upscale dining, and nearby city attractions, this region blends desert landscapes with an energetic, festive atmosphere.
Located in Queen Creek, Schnepf Farms decorates its farm for both Halloween and Christmas, and it is definitely something that is a must-do for both holidays. They set up lights all around, and they also have a hay ride that they change for each holiday. It’s a super festive place that is a must for the holiday season.
Arizona has a wide variety of places and things to do during winter, but these are some popular and fun destinations for you to visit during the holidays!