Arizona may be famous for its sweeping desert views and the Grand Canyon, but beyond the postcard landscapes lies a state full of unexpected adventures, high-end stays, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences that make it a destination worth every dollar. Here are a few memorable stops to add to your next trip.
1. Catch a Wave at Revel Surf Park
Surfing in the desert might sound impossible—until you see Revel Surf Park. The state-of-the-art wave pool caters to everyone, from first-timers to expert surfers. Lessons and surfboard rentals make it easy to dive in without gear.
Beyond the waves, guests can boogie board, cliff jump, or unwind in a private cabana on the park’s white-sand beaches. There’s also a skate park and full-service dining that turns a day of surfing into a resort-style experience. It’s the kind of “day at the beach” that makes you forget you’re in the middle of Arizona.
2. Race at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
For travelers who prefer adrenaline over relaxation, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games delivers. The multi-level electric kart track puts drivers behind the wheel for a high-speed thrill ride. Off the track, guests can test their aim in laser tag, bowl a few frames, or explore immersive VR attractions. It’s a solid pick for families and friend groups looking to mix competition with entertainment—all under one roof.
3. Experience “Dinnertainment” at Kasai Japanese Steakhouse
At Kasai Japanese Steakhouse, dinner is part meal, part performance. The owner and staff have built a reputation for creating an atmosphere where every table feels like an event. Hibachi chefs light up the grills—literally—with bursts of flame and razor-sharp precision as they prepare teppanyaki favorites.
The menu balances sushi, Asian-inspired dishes, and family-friendly options like the fan-favorite pineapple ice cream—a sweet ending that keeps kids smiling. Between the food, the show, and the warm hospitality, Kasai delivers on both taste and experience.
4. Recharge At The Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
Set on the ancestral lands of the Gila River Indian Community, the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass blends luxury with culture. Designed to honor the heritage of the Pima (Akimel O’Odham) and Maricopa (Pee Posh) peoples, the resort incorporates local artistry, architecture, and ingredients throughout.
The property features 500 rooms, sweeping desert views, and Kai, Arizona’s only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star restaurant, where each dish tells a story rooted in Indigenous tradition.
The on-site Aji Spa—a Forbes Five Star retreat—offers massages and treatments inspired by ancient healing rituals, earning a reputation as a destination in itself. Surrounded by the desert’s natural beauty, the resort feels like an oasis, combining serenity with first-class amenities.
The Takeaway
From catching a wave in the desert to savoring teppanyaki under the glow of the grill, Arizona surprises at every turn. Whether you’re racing go-karts, indulging in pineapple ice cream, or recharging at a world-class spa, the state proves that adventure, luxury, and value can coexist beautifully—making every experience money well spent.
Image credit: Photo: Tim Mossholder: Pexels
