5 Hidden Gems In Arizona You Have To Visit

By Ginny Reese

October 23, 2020

Arizona has many amazing things that make the state unique and fun. With travel at a bit of a stand-still lately, residents are left looking for places right here in the state for an unforgettable stay-cation.

Here are five hidden gems in Arizona that you have to visit:

Pumpkin Spring Pool

Everyone knows about the Grand Canyon, however, you may not know about the Pumpkin Spring Pool. Don't be tempted to swim in it though. This pool is filled with some of the most poisonous water in the Canyon. The pool gets its pumpkin-like features from limestones, and the water is full of a mixture of lead, copper, zinc, and arsenic, which is used for rat poisoning.

(Mile 212.9, Grand Canyon in Littlefield)

Since it’s the springtime (finally) and we like pumpkins...here’s a pic of Pumpkin Spring Pool in the Grand Canyon. #Halloween2018 is only 192 days away!! pic.twitter.com/sTNxaHAVDI
— AHS Safe Halloween (@ahs_halloween) April 21, 2018

Desert Botanical Garden

If you're looking for more of a boho Instagram-worthy adventure, you have to visit Desert Botanical Garden. This garden is full of dreamy succulents, cacti, and trees that are sure to fill your heart with some prickly plant love.

(1202 N Galvin Pkwy in Phoenix)

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There’s something magical about @dbgphx when the sun starts to set... This Saturday is your last opportunity for Flashlight Nights at the Desert Botanical Garden, and then the Fall Plant Sale is right around the corner! #dbgphx #desertbotanicalgarden #thevalleyofthefun

A post shared by Your Guide to Arizona (@thevalleyofthefun) on Sep 24, 2020 at 9:50am PDT

"Fireflies" at The Yayoi Kusama Infinity Room

The contemporary art installation called "Fireflies" is a 25-square foot exhibition located at the Phoenix Art Museum comprised of mirror-lined walls, a black acrylic roof, a polished black granite floor, and 250 LED lightbulbs that are programmed to alternate colors, creating a calm, beautiful experience. Walking through this exhibit creates an overwhelming sense of serenity.

(1625 North Central Avenue in Phoenix)

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“There is some confusion as to what magic actually is...I believe that magic is art and that art, whether it be writing, music, sculpture, or any other form, is literally magic.” - Alan Moore The quote above, from the writer of The Watchmen, V for Vendetta, and Swamp Thing, goes on to explain that like magic, art uses symbols, words, and images to challenge or alter our perspectives of the world, each other, and ourselves. This #PhxArt #VirtualVisit asks you to suspend all doubts and explore this idea with us as we share mystical and mysterious artworks from across the #PhxArtCollection over the next few days. Pictured here is the immersive, magical installation by Yayoi Kusama, You Who are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies (2005). See more in bio link and here: bit.ly/PhxArtMagicMystery Artwork: Yayoi Kusama, You Who are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies (Tú que estás siendo obliterado por una multitud de luciérnagas danzantes), 2005. Mixed media installation with LED lights. Museum purchase with funds provided by Jan and Howard Hendler. #YayoiKusama #Fireflies #Magic #Mystery

A post shared by Phoenix Art Museum (@phxart) on Aug 1, 2020 at 9:01am PDT

Mystery Valley

In a section of Monument Valley lies a pretty unfamiliar stretch of desert called Mystery Valley. This section of the valley that is scattered with artifacts and an intricate assortment of geological formations is believed to have once been underwater. Access to this area is only permitted under the supervision of Diné guide.

(Mystery Valley Rd in Kayenta)

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Historic and Nizhoní photo of the old juniper tree in Monument Valley. --------------------------------------- #monumentvalley #majesticmonumentvalley #monumentvalleytribalpark #utahgram #visitarizona #visitarizona #beutahful #OptOutside #instatravel #grandcircle #igutah #instagramaz #southwest #arizonahighways

A post shared by Majestic Monument Valley (@majesticmonumentvalley) on Feb 1, 2017 at 3:59pm PST

Valley of the Moon

Valley of the Moon was once known as "The Mountain Gnome" and is based on an imaginary world where kindness and peace could be found. This place has "enchantingly winding paths," hidden caverns, and walls made of boulders that is perfect for those looking for an adventure.

(2544 E. Allen Rd in Tucson)

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Reserve your spot for you and up to 10 of your closest boo crew to have (mostly) private access...with the exception of magical creatures you may encounter along the way at The Haunted Ruins. www.tucsonvalleyofthemoon.com

A post shared by Valley of the Moon (@tucsonvalleyofthemoon) on Oct 14, 2020 at 7:57am PDT

Photo: Getty Images