10 Epic Places in Arizona That Look Straight Out of Another Planet
When I first landed in Arizona, I thought I knew what to expect—dusty roads, dry air, and some red rocks. But what I actually discovered?
A jaw-dropping landscape that felt more like Mars than the American Southwest.
If you’re into otherworldly views, these are the ten places in Arizona that blew my mind—and might just blow yours too.
1. Antelope Canyon
It’s hard to believe Antelope Canyon is real. The way sunlight slices through those swirling sandstone curves made me feel like I’d stepped inside a dream.
This slot canyon is best seen with a guided tour, and trust me—you’ll never forget it.
2. Horseshoe Bend
You’ve probably seen photos of Horseshoe Bend on Instagram. But standing on the cliff’s edge, staring down at the Colorado River curling like a ribbon, hits different.
Sunset is the time to go for the golden glow, just bring water and comfy shoes.
3. Monument Valley
Driving into Monument Valley felt like stepping into an old Western movie. Those towering red rock buttes rise from the desert floor like ancient giants.
It’s quiet, vast, and deeply humbling—especially at sunrise.
4. The Wave
This one requires a permit and some serious planning, but The Wave is worth every step. Its undulating rock patterns look like melted rainbow taffy frozen in stone.
It’s one of the most surreal landscapes I’ve ever hiked through.
5. Petrified Forest National Park
Imagine walking through a forest where every tree has turned to stone over millions of years. The Petrified Forest is eerie, colorful, and unlike anything I’ve seen.
There’s even a section that looks like the surface of Jupiter.
6. Meteor Crater
Yup—an actual crater made by a space rock that slammed into Earth. Standing at the rim of this perfectly preserved impact site near Winslow, I felt like I was on a different planet.
There’s even a museum with astronaut training history.
7. Sedona’s Red Rock Country
Sedona is pure magic. The rusty-red rock formations glow at golden hour, and the whole area feels electric with energy.
Whether you’re into vortexes or not, the views from Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock are simply unreal.
8. Painted Desert
True to its name, the Painted Desert looks like a watercolor come to life. Rolling hills in shades of lavender, rust, and peach stretch as far as the eye can see.
I stopped the car just to stare—and ended up sitting there for an hour.
9. Grand Canyon (from Desert View)
Sure, the Grand Canyon is world-famous—but the Desert View Watchtower gives you a more remote, less crowded experience.
I watched shadows dance across the canyon walls as the sun dipped low, and it honestly took my breath away.
10. Canyon de Chelly
This one’s still under-the-radar, and that’s what makes it special. Located in Navajo Nation, Canyon de Chelly has dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins, and a spiritual energy that feels sacred.
Don’t miss the White House Ruins Trail.
Arizona felt like traveling through ten different worlds in one state. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or snapping wild rock formations, this place will mess with your sense of reality—in the best way.
