Bed and Breakfast Arizona

History

Arizona was the last territory to gain statehood in the contiguous United States and is now among the 15 most populous states in the country. Once part of Mexico, much of the land became part of the United States after the Mexican-American War. The remainder of the state was purchased shortly after in 1853.There are more than two dozen Native American tribes in Arizona, including the largest in the country, the Navajo Nation. Native American reservations make up roughly one-fourth of the land area inside the state. Throughout the 20th century, Arizona witnessed tremendous growth, and its capital and largest city, Phoenix, is the 5th most populated metropolis in America.

Activities

Whether you’re craving time in the outdoors or wish to visit cultural attractions, Arizona has enough activities to keep you on the move. There are three national parks (Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Saguaro) that showcase Arizona’s natural beauty and incredibly ecological diversity. Outside of the Grand Canyon, Northern Arizona features other spectacular natural wonders such as the Vermilion Cliffs and Lake Powell.Flagstaff serves as a gateway to some of Arizona’s tallest peaks, the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort, and numerous Native American cultural sites. Just 25 miles south of Flagstaff, Oak Creek Canyon is a stunning river gorge that’s a haven for outdoor recreation. A popular day trip from Flagstaff is the historic copper mining town of Jerome that was once known as the “Wickedest Town in the West.”Southern Arizona lies within the desert and features some of the iconic images of the American Southwest. Downtown Tucson provides an excellent base to delve into the fascinating culture of the region or admire the cacti inside Saguaro National Park. Horseback riding is ingrained in the lifestyle around Tucson and an enjoyable way to wander the Sonoran Desert.

Natural Features

Arizona’s position inside the Four Corners region and its wide range of elevation create drastically different climates. Southern Arizona fits the typical image of the American Southwest with its arid terrain and scorching temperatures. Giant Saguaro cacti, craggy rock spires, hoodoos, and desert wildflowers dot the landscape. Find isolated mountain ranges that create exciting hiking expeditions and keep your eyes peeled for unique desert creatures. The Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway reveals awe-inspiring sky islands that give you a break from the desert heat. Although temperatures in the nearby Sonoran Desert reach often eclipse 120°F, the higher altitudes of Mt. Lemmon are usually 20-30 degrees cooler.While you’ll find rugged canyons in Southern Arizona, the ones found in Northern Arizona earn the state its nickname as the “Grand Canyon State.” The region consists of beautiful mountain ranges and the country’s legendary canyons. One of the world’s seven natural wonders, the 18-mile wide Grand Canyon attracts visitors from around the world. Grand Canyon National Park ranks as one of the country’s most visited national parks for its striking red rock cliffs. Northern Arizona also includes Antelope Canyon, Humphreys Peak, and Kaibab National Forest. The versatile topography gives travelers that chance to explore high plateaus, snow-capped peaks, evergreen forests, and colorful deserts.

Things to Do

The Grand Canyon steals the spotlight as the top attraction in Arizona, but there is unbelievable natural beauty across the state. A little more than two hours north of the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon is one of America’s greatest geologic treasures. The twisting walls of the two slot canyons formed over millions of years and hiking inside them is a photographer’s dream. Horseshoe Bend is another popular location amongst photographers and nature lovers to view the Colorado River meandering through the red rock canyons. Head to the Arizona-Utah state line to find the famous image of Monument Valley that has been featured in numerous Hollywood flicks.The Ramsey Canyon Preserve is vastly underrated and an incredible place to view wildlife. Lying at the crossing of the Sierra Madre, Rocky Mountains, and the Sonoran Desert, Ramsey Canyon nurtures a vibrant ecosystem that’s home to hummingbirds, black bears, rattlesnakes, bats, and much more. City life isn’t far away from the nature preserve, and Tucson lets you explore various museums and traditional southwest architecture. Drive through the desert towards Scottsdale to unwind at spa resorts, play golf, visit famous homes, and climb rugged mountains for spectacular views.

Weather

Contrary to popular belief, Arizona is more than the images of arid desert depicted on television shows. While parts of southern and western Arizona fit the stereotype, you’ll find alpine climates elsewhere. The northern and eastern sections of the state contain higher altitudes and a wider range of temperatures throughout the year. This diversity creates a more variation in the weather than many visitors anticipate.Arizona does experience around 300 days of sunshine each year, but temperatures vary based on your selected region. Central Arizona witnesses hotter summer temperatures, while Northern Arizona sees cooler daytime temperatures and sometimes chilly nights. It’s not uncommon for areas of the southern desert to reach daytime highs of around 125°F. Winters remain mild in the southern and central parts of Arizona, while Northern Arizona often presents snowy forecasts. Overall, there is little rainfall across the state but expect the mountainous regions to receive the most showers throughout the year.

Food and Drink

Arizona cuisine is heavily influenced by Mexican and Native American cultures, and the addition of westward settlers created a unique mixture of culinary styles. Foodies familiar with Mexican staples will notice many similarities when sampling traditional Arizonan dishes. Burritos and chimichangas are two delicious items that should be at the top of your must-taste list in Arizona. Both are packed with incredible flavors from the cheeses, sauces, spices, and a variety of meats used in recipes. Navajo culture is noticeable around the state, and you’ll find Navajo variations of tacos and posole (hominy stew). Other Arizona favorites to place on your foodie list include tamales, Menudo, and Sonoran hot dogs.

Bed and Breakfast Arizona FAQ

Why Stay at a Bed and Breakfast Inn in Arizona?

Arizona features some of America’s premier boutique inns that masterfully combine authenticity and luxury for your southwest getaway. Innkeepers go above and beyond to maintain historic architectural features, decorating guest rooms with exquisite artwork and décor, provide modern amenities. You may expect to find only Adobe guest houses and Pueblo-style homes, but don’t be surprised to spot Victorian-style properties. Expect unmatched hospitality from the innkeepers and for each boutique hotel to be adorned with their personal charms. Most Arizona properties include a delicious breakfast to start your day or provide the necessities to cook for yourself. For family vacations, you’ll find plenty of pet-friendly bed and breakfasts that allow you to bring your furry friends.

What type of amenities can I expect when booking an Arizona Bed and Breakfast?

When you reside at an Arizona bed and breakfast, expect comfort and luxury around every corner of the property. Furnishings exude southwestern flair, and guest rooms often have private entrances and luxurious bathrooms. Don’t be surprised to see your accommodations decorated with beautiful artwork or adorned with a beautiful fireplace. Free WIFI and breakfast are included in most stays, but you’ll also find options where you can unplug from society and cook your own meals. Some bed and breakfasts provide kitchenettes or BBQ grills to help you practice your culinary skills. Since Arizona faces bouts of intense heat, many bed and breakfasts have air conditioning or an on-site pool for a refreshing swim. Guest rooms typically come with modern luxuries such as TVs, daily housekeeping, refrigerators, private bathrooms, workspaces, complimentary bathrobes & slippers, and spacious beds for a good night’s sleep.

How can I get around Arizona?

Many visitors fail to realize that Arizona is one of the biggest states in America by land area, and renting a car is essential to see the best attractions. There are several national parks and other cherished natural wonders that are difficult to reach using public transportation. Fortunately, Phoenix and Tucson each have near unlimited options to book a rental car for your Arizona vacation. If you’re pressed for time, you can fly from Phoenix to smaller cities such as Flagstaff or Page. There are a few bus companies for transport between cities, but rail networks are almost nonexistent in Arizona.

What are the different types of B&Bs in Arizona?

Bed & Breakfasts in Arizona provide an intimate experience with the culture and natural scenery of the American Southwest. Lounge poolside, smell desert wildflowers and worship the sun at the stylish retreat of your choice.Located in sunny Sedona, the sunny Sunset Chateau sits upon the hilltop and offers stunning views of the Arizona landscape. Interior artwork comes from all over the world but brilliantly captures the southwest style. The nearby Briar Patch Inn shows off its signature Native American décor that flows with the southwest theme. For breathtaking images of the famous red rocks of Sedona, the Whispering Creek Bed & Breakfast lets you view the geologic paradise from your door. If you’re looking for a wedding location in Sedona, the Adobe Village Inn and Creekside Inn specialize in romantic events.Over in Prescott, the Prescott Pines Inn B&B places you on the edge of the forest, provides easy access to the Grand Canyon, and lets you unwind beside cozy fireplaces after a day in the outdoors. The Sheridan House Inn presents a unique bed and breakfast experience in Northern Arizona. With the surrounding pine forest offering unmatched privacy, it’s a fantastic spot to recharge your batteries away from the crowds. For a Southern Arizona bed & breakfast getaway, the Sam Hughes Inn offers Spanish-styled furnishings and places you minutes from downtown Tucson.