Recreation is defined as an activity that one does for enjoyment when not working. That could encompass A LOT when you think about it. Hobbies, sports, gardening, exercising, sightseeing, and going to the movies could all be considered recreational activities depending on who you ask.
In the state of Arizona, there are many recreation opportunities. Full-time residents can enjoy the beauty and culture of their state at any time, but travellers from other states or across the world can also take advantage of the numerous activities that are available. Gaining new experiences can positively benefit mental health, and travelling gives you the chance to try new things.
Whether you are in Phoenix, at the Grand Canyon, or just travelling through, there is plenty to enjoy in Arizona. Let’s discuss some popular recreational activities that you could engage in to have a fulfilling experience.
Hiking
The countryside in Arizona is ripe with sweeping landscapes and breathtaking views. There is always the visible-from-space Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that has miles upon miles of trails to explore. Sedona is another gorgeous area featuring red mountains surrounded by southwestern forests and rock formations. Saguaro National Park is a cactus-ridden desert that has to be experienced in person. All these beautiful spots, along with many others, are ideal backdrops for a day of hiking with your fellow travellers, so make sure you bring the right footwear, a large water bottle, and some snacks to keep your energy up.
Bikepacking
You have heard of biking and probably backpacking, but bikepacking combines the two. This unique recreational activity is a great way to explore an open landscape with long roads and rolling hills, something that Arizona has plenty of. The gear that you need to plan a long bikepacking trip in Arizona requires a lot of preparation, so you need to discover what it takes to go bikepacking. You’ll also need to be an efficient packer, as every pound you add is one more you have to drag up every hill. However, if you can get past the packing and preparation stages, there are few better ways to experience the lovely landscapes of Arizona than on a bicycle.
Sports
Sports are a common way for travellers to enjoy activities that they love while in Arizona. We are not just talking about playing sports either. There are plenty of public places to play your favourite sports, of course, but there are also chances to watch professional sports in a live setting. Most towns and cities will have at least one sports-themed bar/restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal with multiple televisions featuring different events. If you want a more authentic experience during your time in Arizona, you could always get Diamondbacks tickets to see a live baseball game or look for other professional teams that are based in this state to cheer on.
Balloon flights
There are a few ways to view the landscape of Arizona, but if you want a taste of the unconventional, then a trip in a hot air balloon could create a memory that lasts a lifetime. Hot air balloons are a unique method of travel that gives you plenty of time to take in the sights while feeling the air in your face. Though this activity is not for the faint of heart, as a fear of heights would make this a crippling experience, it can provide quite the thrill for travellers who want a bird’s eye view of the state.
Horseback riding
Another unique way to travel is on the back of a horse. Horseback riding is very popular in Arizona, so almost any part of the state you visit will have some options for learning this activity within a short drive. Some horseback riding can even be done in the Grand Canyon to create a truly unforgettable experience. It can be thrilling being on the back of an animal that large and letting them carry you along trails that offer beautiful views of the countryside, and being able to direct the horse where you want it to go is also very satisfying.
Arizona is brimming with recreational opportunities
Whether you enjoy more peaceful activities like sitting back and watching a ball game or want to seek out thrilling adventures like bikepacking, Arizona will have something fun for you to enjoy. The cities of Phoenix, Tucson, and Scottsdale alone offer a long list of attractions that you could fill an entire vacation itinerary. The small towns, rural areas, and preserved acres of untouched nature in between can also be perfect backdrops for your favourite recreational activities.
Next time you are planning a trip to Arizona, or if you just want to explore more of your home state, try out the activities on this list to gain a new perspective on things and have some fun while on your sightseeing adventures.
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