Hidden gems can be found all around the Copper State if you know where to look. We’ve highlighted some pretty cool little-known spots in Arizona in previous articles, and today we’re going to take a look at even more that you should add to your AZ bucket list ASAP. If you’re a regular reader, or just very well-traveled, you might recognize a few of these spots and you know what? This is a sign that you definitely need to visit these places again… and again.

1. Coal Mine Canyon
Coal Mine Canyon, Arizona 86045, USA
John Fowler/Flickr
Located just east of Tuba City, Coal Mine Canyon is one of several stunning little canyons found in the Moenkopi Wash. This is place is also one of the most serene areas you will find in the state, which makes a visit here even better.
2. Emerald Cave
Emerald Cave, Willow Beach, AZ 86445, USA
Lynn D. Rosentrater/Flickr
While you might not find actual gems in this little cave, you will see some impossibly green waters at this Colorado River location. You can only access Emerald Cave by boat so be sure to book a kayak tour the next time you're near Willow Beach. Of all the hidden gems in Arizona you must see, this one might be the most spellbinding.
3. Grand Canyon Caverns
Grand Canyon Caverns Inn, Peach Springs, AZ, USA
Grand Canyon Caverns Inn, Historic Route 66, Mile Marker 115, Peach Springs, AZ 86434, USA
Michael Kappel/Flickr
You'll find lots of caves around Arizona but this one is unique not only because it is located near the Grand Canyon but you can even spend the night here! There are also plenty of tours to take here, from a basic walk-through to more adventurous spelunking for more experienced folks.
4. Keet Seel at Navajo National Monument
Keet Seel Canyon, Arizona 86033, USA
Alan English CPA/Flickr
Located in Navajo National Monument, this is one of the best preserved cliff dwellings in the United States, all thanks to our arid environment. You can take a 15-mile round-trip hike to the ruins and see some of the rooms up close.
5. Knoll Lake
Knoll Lake, Arizona, USA
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
This scenic lake is a lovely hidden spot on the Mogollon Rim that usually sees higher traffic at the peak summer months but now that most people are back in school or laboring away at work, an overnight trip here is perfect! The lake is great for scenic views, boating, and camping.

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6. Lava River Cave
Lava River Cave, 171B Forest Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA
Right Brain Photography/Flickr
You’ll need to drive along several miles to dirt forest roads to get to this hidden Lava River Cave but a trip here is worth the effort. The often icy cave was formed by lava 700,000 years ago and makes for a perfect summer hike to escape the heat.
7. MacAlpine’s Soda Shop (Phoenix)
MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain, 2303 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA
MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain/Facebook
Finding a soda shop is a rare find these days but MacAlpine’s in central Phoenix is perfect for a good old-fashioned treat. Enjoy a burger and an ice cream soda or a malt here the next time you’re itching for a cheat day treat.
8. Mount Graham
Mount Graham, Mt Graham, Arizona 85546, USA
Alan Stark/Flickr
Mount Graham and the Pinaleño Mountains don’t see a high number of visitors each year, which makes a trip here a nice retreat from everyday life. It’s also a surprising place to find cool air and pines in southeastern Arizona.
9. San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
Bureau of Land Management San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area Administrative Office, 4070 S Avenida Saracino, Hereford, AZ 85615, USA
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Down near the US-Mexico border, the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is a lovely riparian area that is home to a diverse range of wildlife. It’s a perfect spot to watch wildlife in the morning or to take a quiet stroll along the river’s banks mid-afternoon.
10. Sycamore Canyon
Sycamore Canyon, Arizona 86336, USA
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
One of the largest canyons in Arizona, Sycamore Canyon sits in the Verde Valley and is a large, not often-visited spot. There are plenty of hiking trails, camping sites, and other spectacular places to see here year-round.
11. Queen Mine (Bisbee)
Copper Queen Mine, Arizona 86329, USA
John Sagredo/Flickr
Bisbee’s Copper Queen Mine produced millions of dollars of wealth in coppery, gold, silver, and other minerals. The mine closed in 1975 and today you can take a tour via minecart with a retired miner to learn more about what it was like working here.

Looking for some hidden gems in Arizona with a little bit of history behind them? Check out these other hidden gems in Arizona that hold historic keys to the past for some great ideas! If you need somewhere unique to stay while in Arizona, check out the offerings from our friends at VRBO.

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More to Explore

Hidden Gems in Arizona

Tori Jane | December 09, 2023

What are some of the best hidden gems in Arizona?  

Arizona is a state jam-packed with some of the COOLEST hidden gems in the United State. Sure, everyone knows about the big ones: Grand Canyon, Sedona, Jerome. But all too often, they overlook the road less traveled – and here, the road less traveled often leads to adventure. Check out some of Arizona’s best hidden gems, like:  

  • Bob Bear Trail – This rigorous hike leads to an incredible waterfall and all the magical delights of Fossil Creek. It’s tough, but the challenge is worth every moment. 
  • Pacheta Falls – This waterfall is hardly even known by locals. Located on a reservation, it requires a permit to hike to, but we promise it’s worth it.  
  • Water Holes Canyon – Why bother with crowded Antelope Canyon when you can do this one instead? It’s just as amazing, and half as busy.  

Learn more about the best hidden gems in Arizona. 

 

Where are the best hidden places to visit in Arizona?  

Naturally, the list of best hidden gems in Arizona doesn’t begin and end with the above; there are so many more options that you could easily make a whole road trip (or a whole lifetime) out of exploring them all. Other notable hidden places to visit in Arizona include:  

  • Kofa National Wildlife Rescue – This gigantic, 665,000-acre slice of paradise is home to countless species native to the desert Southwest.  
  • Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument – People often overlook Organ Pipe in favor of Saguaro National Park, but this cactusy gem is definitely worth a look-see.  

Learn more about some awesome hidden places in Arizona on this road trip.  

 

Which Arizona hidden gems are worthy of my bucket list?  

Would you believe us if we said the list isn’t complete even with all the above? Nope. The list can go on seemingly forever; Arizona is a fascinating place full of surprises. Here are a couple extra shiny hidden gems for your bucket list:  

  • Bearizona – This drive-through wildlife park is located west of Flagstaff in Williams; it’s an experience the entire family will never forget.  
  • Coal Mine Canyon – This canyon may not be as dramatic as the Grand Canyon, but it’s incredibly beautiful and worthy of a day trip.  
  • Boynton Canyon – This amazing escape near Sedona is home to a hidden resort you’ll have to experience to believe.  

Learn more about these additional hidden gems in AZ that belong on your bucket list.  

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