Arizona vacation rentals

Explore Arizona from vacation home rentals

The vast landscapes of Arizona welcome nature lovers to explore deep canyons, sweeping deserts, river gorges and multitudes of national parks, forests, monuments and historic sites. Whether you head straight for the Grand Canyon to hike landmark trails, or spend some time in big cities like Phoenix and Tucson checking out intriguing museums and tasty regional cuisine, you're sure to find a piece of the state that calls to you. With everything from suburban houses and quiet cottages to casitas with refreshing pools and mountain views, there's an Arizona vacation rental to suit all styles.

Historic sites near Arizona vacation homes

The rich history of Arizona is showcased in heritage sites and museums throughout the state. Vacation rentals can be found near places like Canyon de Chelly National Monument, an ancient site with Native American ruins and guided tours, and Montezuma Castle National Monument, a cliff dwelling of the Sinagua people that dates back to the 12th century. You'll also like the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark, an ancient meteorite impact site with an interpretive center.

Attractions near Arizona vacation homes

The Grand Canyon is by far the most popular attraction in Arizona, with millions of visitors heading to the national park each year. You can admire the wonder from scenic lookouts and miles of hiking trails, or take to the skies on helicopter tours and hot air balloon rides for incredible aerial views. Nearby, the same Colorado River that traces through the canyon forms other geological wonders, including the dramatic Horseshoe Bend. A number of Arizona vacation rentals are available in nearby gateway cities like Flagstaff and Williams, where you can hop on a train and take a ride to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Touring the big cities of Arizona

While the amazing natural attractions are the highlight of Arizona, cities here have a lot to offer as well. Sightseeing in the state's 2 largest hubs will introduce you to a wealth of museums, galleries and cultural attractions, as well as the unique Sonoran Desert landscape. In Phoenix, a botanical garden is dedicated to desert plants, while Tucson's Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum boasts a zoo and aquarium, art exhibits and trails that run through desert habitats. The cities are only a couple of hours away from each other, so selecting an Arizona vacation rental in either one will allow you to take daytrips to the other as well.

Scorching summers in Arizona

Summers in Arizona can be scorching hot, especially in the Sonora desert and southern cities like Tucson and Phoenix, which see average highs at or above 100 degrees. Outdoor activities like hiking and golfing in this region are best reserved for late fall through early spring, when temperatures peak in the 60s and 70s. In the northern part of the state, around Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon, average highs and lows can be 20 degrees cooler than their southern neighbors at any given point, meaning winter lows drop below freezing, while the months on either end of summer hang out in the sunny 70s.

The incredible landscapes of Arizona

From the red rocks of Sedona to the cactus-filled desert in Tonto National Forest, there are endless geologic and natural wonders to explore in Arizona. The Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in the western part of the state is a great place to see giant cacti and desert mammals like bighorn sheep and mule deer. The Grand Canyon area is ideal for birding, with more than 400 species, including rare owls and condors. No matter which park, preserve or forest you head to, you're sure to encounter incredible wildlife and interesting plants along the lakes, rivers, canyons and deserts that beautify the state.

Transportation to and around Arizona

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport (PHX), the closest airport, located 3.8 mi (6.1 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could book a flight to Scottsdale, AZ (SCF), which is 15 mi (24.2 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, Maricopa Station, Tucson Station and Flagstaff Station are the main stations in the city. You can see more of Arizona by jumping on the metro at Washington - Central Station, Jefferson Street - 1st Ave Station or Van Buren - 1st Ave Station.

Sample regional cuisine in Arizona

Arizona reflects the culinary traditions of the Southwest and the rustic cooking of the region. Recipes in Arizona are a fusion of recipes from Spanish colonial settlers, cowboys, Native Americans, and Mexicans. Menudo, nachos, quesadillas, chile con carne, and other traditional dishes are commonly found in restaurants near your vacation rental.