Visiting Arizona in December gives a novel mix of out of doors journey and serene landscapes, all underneath the magical winter sky. Whether or not you’re drawn to its dramatic canyons or tranquil desert expanses, there’s no scarcity of fascinating experiences.
Right here’s your go-to record of the best possible issues to do in Arizona in December — it’ll be a visit you’ll always remember.
1. Discover the Higher Antelope Canyon
December is the low season for the beautiful Higher Antelope Canyon, making it an excellent time for a go to. As the daylight filters by the slender passageways, the rock formations tackle pretty hues. The smaller crowds imply a extra intimate expertise with this pure marvel. Take a look at my detailed comparability of Higher vs Decrease Antelope Canyon to choose the appropriate journey for you.
2. Take a White Pocket Tour
If you happen to’re trying to escape the crowds, think about a surreal journey to White Pocket. Situated within the Vermilion Cliffs Nationwide Monument, its swirling rock formations and vibrant colours are otherworldly. December’s cooler temperatures make a cease right here much more pleasing. In spite of everything, exploring this pure marvel entails strolling round in full solar — not an important decide for a summertime go to!
3. Hike to Havasu Falls
The chilly December climate makes the difficult hike to Havasu Falls a bit simpler. Expertise the awe-inspiring turquoise waters, which kind a stark distinction in opposition to the encompassing purple rocks. (Earlier than you go, make sure you take a look at my full information on the Havasu Falls hike.) Take into account that it will likely be far too chilly to swim at Havasu Falls this time of yr…until plunging into the chilly waters miles away from civilization is your factor. You do you!
4. Stargaze in Sedona
With its clear December skies, Sedona gives a few of the finest stargazing alternatives. It’s a chosen Darkish Sky Metropolis, which means minimal gentle air pollution interferes with the celestial show. Bundle up, although, because the desert night time can get fairly chilly!
If you happen to’ve learn my Sedona information, you already know I’m obsessive about this Southwestern treasure. I’ve a shortlist of my dream stays there, too!
5. Journey the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Specific
For a pleasant household expertise, hop aboard the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Specific in Williams, Arizona. The prepare journey takes you thru the snow-clad wilderness of Northern Arizona to the “North Pole.” Take pleasure in scorching cocoa, cookies, and a studying of the basic Polar Specific guide. This is likely one of the finest issues to do in Arizona in December with little ones!
6. Discover the Desert Botanical Backyard
Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Backyard is a haven of southwestern flora. December is a stupendous month to discover the backyard, as it’s adorned with 1000’s of luminaria luggage and twinkling lights. Wander by a fantasy land of illuminated cacti and agave vegetation.
There are additionally tons of superior day journeys you could take from Phoenix in case you don’t need to enterprise too distant from town.
7. Go to the Ice Rinks in Downtown Phoenix
Embrace the vacation spirit in downtown Phoenix, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in out of doors ice skating. Though Arizona isn’t identified for its icy winters, these seasonal rinks supply a cool distinction to the desert panorama. CityScape is a crowd favourite as a result of it’s the biggest within the space!
8. Ski or Snowboard in Flagstaff
December in Flagstaff means snow — and loads of it. Head to the Arizona Snowbowl to ski or snowboard on a mountain with a view. On a transparent day, you’ll be able to see the Grand Canyon from the summit!
9. Take a Sizzling Air Balloon Journey in Scottsdale
There’s one thing additional particular about floating over the Arizona desert in a scorching air balloon, particularly when the panorama is tinged with the comfortable colours of winter. A December-morning trip gives a recent perspective on Scottsdale’s iconic red-rock formations and is an absolute must-do this time of yr.
10. Discover the Petrified Forest Nationwide Park
This lesser-known nationwide park is extremely intriguing, particularly in December, when you’ll be able to have the park virtually to your self. Admire the colourful petrified logs which might be scattered throughout the land, a novel sight to not be missed when in search of the perfect issues to do in Arizona in December.
The Petrified Forest Nationwide Park is positioned inside the Painted Desert, probably the most unbelievable locations to go to in Arizona. It’s particularly great within the winter, because the night time sky is probably the most sensible this time of yr. Go see it for your self!
11. Take a Jeep Tour of the Purple Rocks
Wish to discover Arizona’s iconic purple rocks however have restricted time? A jeep tour is the proper resolution. This gives an exhilarating method to stand up shut and private with Arizona’s scenic landscapes, making it top-of-the-line issues to do there in December.
12. Journey by Kartchner Caverns
Kartchner Caverns State Park is an underground paradise for nature lovers. These dwelling caves supply a glimpse into an otherworldly realm of beautiful mineral formations. Plus, it’s an Worldwide Darkish Sky Park and repeatedly hosts star events, that are significantly thrilling in December, as a result of the skies are additional clear.
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Whether or not you’re in search of an adrenaline rush, a chill end-of-year trip, or a family-friendly journey, Arizona in December is a good decide. The perfect half? Many of those actions include the additional benefit of fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, so you’ll be able to absolutely embrace all that the state has to supply.
The place will you begin your AZ itinerary?
