Arizona: Tips

National Parks Pass Be sure to pick up a National Parks Pass if visiting several national parks during your visit; you’ll save on park fees and avoid lines. www.nps.gov

Rent a car The sheer size of Arizona makes a car and a map an absolute must – sights are far apart, and solid public ground transportation options are limited, even in major metropolitan areas like Phoenix.

Hot and cold As is typical of desert climates, expect about 30-degree temperature fluctuations year-round between daytime highs and nighttime lows. Bring a lightweight jacket or a sweater for the cool evening hours, particularly during the winter months.

Protect yourself year-round Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must while under the desert sun.

Hike smart Follow these rules when hiking: stay hydrated; plan your time wisely, taking available daylight and return time into account; and, if journeying solo, let someone (a ranger at the visitor center, for example) know where you’re going.

Hydrate Carry plenty of water around with you at all times, including in your rental car. The sun can get extremely hot and it’s wise to be ready in case of emergency.

Humble abode Keeping with the rugged Wild West atmosphere, you shouldn’t expect too many bells and whistles when it comes to areas outside the major metropolitan areas. Expect a lot of middle-of-the road chain hotels when off the path.

Wild West The Sonoran Desert is home to an exotic array of wildlife – coyotes, javelinas, gila monsters, tarantulas – so don’t wander into the wilderness unless you’re ready for a meet and greet.

Wild weather Expect dramatic thunderstorms in late summer. While breathtakingly beautiful to observe, they can be nail-bitingly frightful to drive through. Desert climates are also known for changing dramatically between night and day, so be prepared for much cooler evenings.

Art in the desert Many Arizona cities boast thriving art scenes – try to catch special ongoing events like Sedona’s First Friday Gallery Tour (held the first Friday of the month) and the Scottsdale ArtWalk (Thursdays from 7-9pm), among others.

Book Grand Canyon lodging early South Rim cabins can fill up a year in advance, so book early. Plan to spend at least one night in Grand Canyon Village, where a series of rustic and historical accommodations lies just steps away from the rim.

Shopping à la Southwest Arizona boasts ample shopping ops for Southwest souvenirs: look for silver and turquoise jewelry, cowboy paintings, Navajo rugs and pottery, and Mexican crafts.

Spirituality in Sedona If you’ve never heard of crystal therapy, reiki, or aura photos, prepare yourself – your mind will soon be teeming with those terms. The buzz centers on Sedona’s professed vortexes, believed to be high-energy power centers.

Local bites Mexican and Western influences reign supreme, with an abundance of stellar steakhouses and spicy Southwestern menus, but you’ll also find haute international choices in the big cities. Local specialties worth trying include prickly pear cactus drinks, rattlesnake, and cactus fries.