Whether you are into hiking or biking, history, heritage or heart-stirring scenery, there is something for all types of couples in the Grand Canyon State. From lazy spa days to stargazing at night, here are some of the most romantic getaways in Arizona.
1. Saguaro National Park
Located in Tucson, the Saguaro National Park is home to the largest cacti in the United States. The saguaro cactus has large arms; some grow over 12 meters tall and are the universal symbol of the American West. This is one of the most romantic places to visit in Arizona for couples who love to get active in nature. There are many hiking trails and fascinating petroglyphs (rock carvings ) of the ancient Hohokam people (prehistoric North American Indians). The Cactus Forest Drive looped road is incredibly scenic for those who prefer driving. You’ll see striking, sweeping vistas of the desert landscape, and at dusk, you’ll see the cacti silhouetted by the beauty of a magnificently colourful desert sunset. Bring a blanket and a picnic and stay for sunset.
2. Havasupai
Havasupai’s setting in the Grand Canyon makes it a bucket list dream getaway for many. It is the perfect romantic destination for couples who love activities that get the adrenaline pumping. Despite its location in one of the country’s most popular national parks, you’ll still be able to find some peace and seclusion here because it is a lesser-known area. So, lace up those hiking boots and enjoy the romantic scenery and each other’s company.
3. Phoenix
Phoenix is a great winter destination if you are trying to escape the cold – is the sunniest city in the United States. It has plenty of outdoor activities to make the most of its good weather, including great golf and hikes – wait till you see the views from the top of Camelback Mountain. It is also a great place for couples who like romantic resorts and amazing spas. There are also plenty of cultural activities to check out, including the Phoenix Art Museum, the Musical Instrument Museum, and the Desert Botanical Garden. To impress your loved one, book a table at one of the most romantic restaurants in Phoenix.
4. Grand Canyon NationalPark
Take a romantic wildlife-watching trip to the Grand Canyon. A huge amount creatures call the Grand Canyon National Park home. There are over 90 mammal species, 447 bird species, 58 reptile species and five amphibian species. Endemic species include the Grand Canyon pink rattlesnake, one of six rattlesnake species living inside the park. For those who like to stop and smell the roses, literally, botanists have counted some 1,750 different plant species too. This is a great romantic getaway in Arizona to reconnect with your special someone while creating amazing memories together.
5. Hawley Lake
Hawley Lake in east-central Arizona, in the White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation, is situated at an elevation of 2499.36 metres (8,200 feet). It is the coldest lake in Arizona, but that means you’ll have to cuddle together afterwards to get warm. On the lake, you can go off on boat adventures, kayak, and stay in cool glamping and camping sites, cosy cabins in the woods or luxury hotels.
6. Sedona
Sedona, with its dreamy rural landscape, is a wonderful place to escape to for those lovers looking for quiet seclusion and serenity in nature. Breathtaking scenery surrounds Sedona, and wherever you look are beautiful vistas. One of the most romantic things to do is to pack and blanket and picnic and find a cosy spot to enjoy the colour landscape and each other’s company. Some of our favourite places are Cathedral Rock for sunset, Oak Creek Canyon for a romantic stroll, and Thunder Mountain and Chimney Rock for stargazing.
7. Petrified Forest National Park
The Petrified Forest National Park is in Navajo and Apache counties in northeastern Arizona. The trees are about 225 million years old. This is a wonderful place to come on a romantic road trip. It really is otherworldly and very beautiful, especially the Rainbow Forest. This place is full of colourful petrified wood. Combining this with the kaleidoscopic colours of the desert, it makes for quite the spectacle. The north of the park is the colourful banded badlands of the Painted Desert. Hiking and camping in the wilderness areas are quite popular. It is a great way to soak up the park’s solitude and tranquillity and get to know each other better.
