What to do in Arizona while house and pet sitting

With impressive national parks, monuments and forests, Arizona is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country with the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam – and it’s just one of the many unforgettable places you could visit on your next pet sit with TrustedHousesitters. 

So, if you’re still not convinced whether Arizona should be your next pet sitting destination or if your trip there is already set up and you’re simply looking for some ideas for things to do in Arizona while you’re taking care of your new fur-friend, we’ve got you covered!

Arizona attractions

Arizona is known for its sprawling desert scenery and epic landscapes, so what are some of the best things to do in Arizona? Let’s start with Arizona attractions as regards to outdoor must-visits: 

1. Antelope Canyon

Book a tour at the most famous slot canyon formation in the world, Antelope Canyon in Northern Arizona has an upper and lower section with equally beautiful coves, arches and colors that make the canyon unique. 

2. Saguaro National Park

Considered a national treasure, the Saguaro National Park is the perfect spot to visit if you want to see iconic southwestern landscapes, not to mention the nation’s largest cacti: the giant saguaro. Looking for spectacular sunsets? Head to the Tucson Mountain District for unbeatable views. 

3. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Majestic Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is a breathtaking valley with sandstone masterpieces of 400 to 1,000 feet framed by scenic clouds which makes for unique sightseeing.

Free things to do in Arizona

Have you ever wondered what to do in Arizona for free? If you’re on a budget, there’s plenty of incredible things to see and do in the Grand Canyon State. Here’s our top three: 

1. The Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center

The ALAC is a cultural center that promotes and preserves Latino, Mexican and the Indigenous arts and cultures. When you visit make sure you check out the schedule for current events and exhibitions. 

2. Arizona State University Art Museum

The Arizona State University Art Museum is home to The Nelson Fine Arts Center facility and features three floors of year-round exhibitions that rotate seasonally. There’s also an award-winning museum store. What’s better than a great gift shop? 

3. Buddy Stubbs Historical Motorcycle Museum

Motorcycle lover? Even if you’re not, you won’t want to miss the spectacle that is Buddy Stubbs Motorcycle Museum. You'll find more than 110 years of motorcycle history starting from 1903, spread across 3,000 square feet with more than 130 rare machines from 37 different manufacturers. 

Fun things to do in Arizona 

After visiting all the museums and cultural centers, what are some fun things to do in Arizona?

1. LEGOLAND Discovery Center

The ultimate playground for LEGO lovers, the Discovery Center has a playground with two rides, a variety of build and play zones, as well as a 4D cinema.

2. Crayola Experience

With 20,000 square feet of colorful attractions, the Crayola Experience is a thrill for the young and old at heart. There’s an array of creative activities to experience from art and technology to interactive and creative play. 

3. Arizona Science Center

Located at the heart of Downtown Phoenix, the Arizona Science Center is a unique landmark designed by Antoine Predock. The building uses a combination of hallways, galleries and terraces spread over 140,000 square feet to create an exciting space that’s full of hands-on exhibitions, a planetarium and a giant-screen theater.

What to do in Arizona with pets?

Looking for things to do in Arizona with your new fur-friend? It’s great to involve your pup when you can, and luckily Arizona has lots of places to take your latest pup. 

1. Cosmo Dog Park 

Located in Gilbert, Cosmo Dog Park is a laid-back dog park with fenced off-leash areas, a sandy beach and lake area as well as a useful washing station. The thoughtfully designed park has separate use areas for active and timid dogs, so whatever your dog’s temperament you’ll be able to enjoy the park. 

3. 32 Shea 

Looking for a quick bite for lunch? 32 Shea is a trendy cafe & bistro with a great selection of wine & sliders located in a former Fotomat with a drive-thru & patio. Delicious food, great coffee and a dog-friendly patio? Count us in.

3. La Gattara Cat Cafe

Enjoy an afternoon with other cat lovers at the La Gattara cat cafe in Tempe. Decked out with cat-friendly furniture, the cafe serves bottled drinks and coffees and pre-packed foods like pastries. The best part? All the cats are available to adopt.

Best restaurants in Arizona: Food and drink

After you’ve enjoyed all the fun activities Arizona has to offer, the only thing left to do is take a look at the best restaurants in Arizona – so, here’s our top picks: 

1. Citizen Public House

A fine-dining twist on the traditional pub, the Citizen Public House is a contemporary gastropub with an inspired menu and wide variety of craft beers. It’s a laidback hang out space that you can easily spend a few hours away after a busy day of exploring. 

2. ShinBay 

If you love Japanese food, ShinBay is for you. They specialise in Omakase-style dining where dishes are chosen by the chef rather than a la carte. It’s a unique experience that will have you talking for a long time to come. 

3. Virtu 

For an amazing cocktail and impeccable food, try Virtu. Located in Scottsdale’s Old Town, the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant has an ever-changing menu that makes the best of seasonal produce. 

Now you’ve checked out our top recommendations of things to do in the Grand Canyon State, we’re confident you have enough great ideas for what to do in Arizona during your next pet sit. There’s so much to enjoy in the desert state - and so many amazing pets and owners ready to welcome you to their homes to take care of their fur-baby while enjoying their amazing area. 

House and pet sitting in Arizona

Now you're ready to visit Arizona, then all that’s left to do is find a house and pet sit. Just head right over here and connect with loving pet owners and their four-legged friends.