The American southwest in the United States is a great place for a romantic getaway!
When you think of a romantic getaway, you probably think of a beach with lush landscapes and crashing waves. You probably don't think of Arizona.
But the desert can be a very romantic place! And despite what people think, Arizona is not all desert!
There is so much to see and do with your significant other! Tee off on their pristine golf courses. Enjoy live music or horseback riding. Or simply enjoy the great view while hiking in one of its many romantic spots.
17 Wonderfully Romantic Things to Do in Arizona
If you are looking for a romantic vacation in Arizona, you are in for a treat. Enjoy active, fun things or an unforgettable experience both indoors and out.
Arizona has no shortage of things to do for a couple's getaway! Enjoy outdoor activities, hot air expeditions, or a different fun date night idea.
The following is my list of the most romantic things to do in Arizona…
1. Visit Canyon Lake
While this may be the smallest of the lakes in the Salt River Project, it is big on beauty.
Take a hike to bird watch, relax on the beach or enjoy a picnic lunch. If you both enjoy water sports, go fishing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, or scuba diving.
2. Visit the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is known for its unrivaled beauty, which makes it one of Arizona's most romantic places.
Hike, camp, take a jeep tour or helicopter tour, before eating a nice dinner at El Tovar. The park's premier lodge is also the perfect place to stay overnight on your couple's getaway.
3. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Arizona is known for its spectacular sights! That also means there is no shortage of places to take a morning or evening hot air balloon ride. If you already know your route, search for a place to take a romantic ride!
If you'd like an RV travel route all mapped out for you, check out our 7 Day RV Adventure Guide of Arizona.
4. Glendale Chocolate Affaire (now called The Chocolate Experience)
Each year, downtown Glendale puts on this “affaire” around Valentine's Day. It is popular for sweets-loving festival-goers. Recently, this festival has changed the way it functions – make sure you call ahead and check to make sure this one will be on.
Enjoy hand-crafted chocolate treats, live music, workshops with romance authors, and more.
5. Japanese Friendship Garden
This gorgeous traditional Japanese garden can be the perfect backdrop to a day out with your significant other! It is tucked away on a 3.5-acre parcel in downtown Phoenix.
Enjoy Koi fish ponds, flora and fauna from Japan, and a 12-foot waterfall!
More romantic things to do in Arizona –
6. Phoenix Desert Sightseeing Cruise
Take in the stunning views of Saguaro Lake on this fun cruise. Make the most of your 90-minutes on this delightful steamboat, enjoying rugged scenery and the iconic Tortilla Flat!
7. Echo Canyon Trail at Camelback Mountain
If your idea of romance is an intense hike, then you will love this! Or, at the very least, you'll be in the most romantic setting at its peak.
This 2.5-mile hike takes you to the top of Phoenix's tallest peak. You will not regret the gorgeous views along the way!
Mike and Jennifer's RV Lifestyle hat collection
Who needs a hat? You do! Dad hats aren't just for dads. This comfy one's got a low profile with an adjustable strap and curved visor. Just the thing to wear on your next RV Lifestyle adventure.
8. Village of Oak Creek, Sedona
This stunning area of Sedona has gorgeous topography.
Take in views of Cathedral Rock, the soaring red landmark rising above Sedona. Hike it to see even more far-reaching desert views!
Or enjoy the upscale golf courses located in the area.
9. Queen Creek Olive Mill
Your “foodie” partner will love to visit the Queen Creek Olive Mill. Fill up on their selection of olives, olive oils, and even clean skincare products.
If you love a good food festival, visit in September. That is when they host a garlic festival!
10. Helicopter Tour
Take your lover on a romantic helicopter ride. Fly over the Grand Canyon, Sedona or any other fantastic site.
Check out a helicopter ride from a place that you will be passing through. You can find options near any major city, and even some towns!
11. Desert Botanical Garden
Tour the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix with your lover. Take in the garden trails and galleries before grabbing lunch at Gertrude's and visiting the gift shop.
12. Papago Park
Another great hiking spot for that outdoor lover!
Located not far from downtown Phoenix, this park is rich in Arizona history. It once served as a reservation for Native Americans, then a fish hatchery during the Great Depression. It was also a POW camp during World War II, before serving as a VA Hospital.
It currently serves as home to the Desert Botanical Garden, The Phoenix Zoo, golf courses, museums, among other things.
13. L' Auberge de Sedona
This is the perfect place to put up your feet and relax! Celebrate a special occasion, like an anniversary. Or, it makes a great setting for marriage proposals!
Situated on the gorgeous Oak Creek right in the heart of Sedona, take in the best views of Sedona's natural beauty.
Enjoy a romantic dinner at their fine dining restaurant. Then stay overnight in a room overlooking the creek, or splurge on a day at the spa. This truly is one of the best romantic places to get away for some rest and relaxation!
14. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
If your partner loves fine art galleries, then try out the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. This place is also great for a first date.
The museum is dedicated to architecture, design, contemporary art, offering a clean sleek background for the perfect date.
15. Wine Tours
Although there are great wine tours throughout the state, one place you might want to try is the Valley Verde Wine Trail. Located in Central Arizona, you won't want to miss this romantic flavor adventure.
16. Sonoran Desert
Just driving through this vast landscape can be good for your soul. The unique ecoregion is a 260,000 square kilometer Arizona desert.
17. Loews Ventana Canyon
If you want to escape your RV for a night or two, this luxury resort awaits you and your date! It is a great location for a romantic couple's getaway.
Golf or just relax at this stunning Tucson hotel. It is the perfect place for snowbirds to enjoy a weekend away during the winter months! You can drive your RV down, then bask in the luxurious amenities.
Enjoy views of the absolutely stunning Catalina Mountains, before taking in a delicious meal. Then quench your thirst with an after-dinner drink at one of the resort's lounges.
What are Your Favorite Romantic Things to Do in Arizona?
Please share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below. And read through our other posts on the wonderful state of Arizona.
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