Are you traveling through Arizona and looking for the most instagrammable spots? Then I’ve got you covered!
In my opinion, Arizona is one of the most instagrammable states in the US – there is literally a good photo spot around every corner!
But to be fair, many of them are either a little hidden away or completely overrun with tourists.
To help you create some picture-perfect snaps in Arizona on your vacation, I have created this helpful guide!
Let’s get to it!
Table of Contents
Arizona Instagram Spots Map
Tucson
1. Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is perfect for Instagram shots with its cool, giant cacti and amazing desert views.
The sunsets here are super colorful, making every photo pop. Come for the golden hour to get the best shots and a break from the desert heat!
Tip: In spring, the flowers bloom and add even more beauty to your pictures!
Keep on reading: Lovely 3 Days in Tucson AZ Itinerary – Slow Paced
2. Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a stunning drive that takes you from the desert of Tucson to cool mountain forests in about an hour.
Along the way, you’ll see gorgeous views, changing landscapes, and plenty of spots to stop for photos.
At the beginning of the drive, you’ll mostly see the famous Saguaro cacti, in the end, you’ll find yourself in a charming mountain village that looks like it’s in the Alps.
Tip: It’s perfect for escaping the heat and enjoying nature, especially in the fall when the leaves change!
Keep on reading: 10 Most Scenic Highways in the Southwest USA (Besides Route 66)
3. Sabino Canyon
Sabino Canyon is a gorgeous spot in Tucson that is perfect for some Insta-pics.
It is known for its beautiful waterfalls and amazing hiking trails.
On your journey, you’ll cross some pretty streams, and you can even take a tram ride to soak in the views.
Tip: It’s especially pretty after rain when waterfalls and wildflowers come to life!
4. La Encantada
La Encantada is not your typical shopping center – but it is rather super Instagrammable.
What makes it so special is its stunning Spanish-inspired architecture, open courtyards, and scenic Catalina Foothills backdrop.
It also has lots of breezy walkways, cute fountains, and lush landscaping. As an added bonus, there are some pretty yummy restaurants in the shopping center as well!
5. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
Even though this Arizona Instagram spot is not open to the public unless you are a guest there it still needed to be on this list.
If you need a charming and Instagrammable place to stay in Tucson – Loews Ventana Canyon is it.
It has waterfalls, stunning hikes and a beautiful pond right there on the property, so you can snap endless pics without even leaving the hotel! We even saw so much wildlife right in the resort, it was truly magical!
6. Mission San Xavier del Bac
Another awesome Instagram spot in Tucson is the Mission San Xavier del Bac.
The mission is also often called the “White Dove of the Desert.” This historic Spanish Catholic mission is located about 10 miles south of downtown Tucson.
It is renowned for its stunning white stucco exterior and intricate interior artwork – which makes it a perfect photo spot for any traveler!
Sedona
Keep on reading: 5 Days in Sedona Itinerary: Instagrammable and Fun
7. Devil’s Bridge
Devil’s Bridge is one of the most stunning natural arches in Arizona – and it needed to be on my list of Instagrammable places.
First, you’ll have to take a bit of a hike but you’ll be rewarded with one of the most amazing views in Sedona. It is kinda popular, but people are nice about sharing the space for photo ops in my experience.
8. West Fork Trail
West Fork Trail in Sedona is a magical escape from the desert environment.
It still has some towering red cliffs, but it also has a peaceful creek and lush forests. It is perfect for a dreamy Instagram shot.
Secret tip: visit in the fall when the golden leaves create a fairytale-like backdrop for your photos!
9. Tlaquepaque Village
Tlaquepaque Village is one of the coolest places in Sedona.
The small village is right outside the town center, and it bursts with charm. It has cobblestone paths, colorful tiles, and vine-covered archways that make every corner Instagram-worthy.
Make sure to snap a shot under the whimsical bell tower or near the fountain. I suggest you arrive early to beat the crowds and have it all to yourself!
10. Secret Slick Rock Trail
The Secret Slick Rock Trail in Sedona is famous for jaw-dropping views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. The trail is pretty easy and only 0.7 miles long.
It is a must-visit spot for those picture-perfect desert vibes. For the best lighting, hit the trail during golden hour.
Tip: don’t forget to capture the reflection in the puddles after a rain!
11. Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock is a fun and photogenic spot where you can glide down natural red rock water slides and wade in the crystal-clear creek. I warn you – the water is pretty cold but it is worth jumping in!
Pro tip: head there on a weekday to avoid the crowds and capture the perfect peaceful shot of this unique Sedona gem! It is located close to the West Fork Trail, so you can combine your visit!
12. Courthouse Butte
Courthouse Butte is another staple when looking for Sedona Instagram spots.
It stands tall with its majestic red rock formations, perfect for dramatic and awe-inspiring Instagram shots.
Take the easy loop trail for stunning views from all angles.
Secret tip: sunrise paints the butte in warm, glowing colors!
13. Sedona Helicopter Tour
If you want to see the magical red rocks of Sedona up close (and from above), you can treat yourself to a Sedona Helicopter Tour.
Personally, I have just taken my drone around the most photogenic rocks of Sedona – but for everyone without a drone, this is a perfect way to get some Instagram snaps from above.
14. Sedona Airbnb
Sedona is home to some of the coolest Airbnbs in Arizona. If you are looking for some awesome and private Instagram spots, I can totally recommend booking a private property for a night.
We were so lucky with our Airbnb – since it has undoubtedly the best views in Sedona. And we had it all to ourselves for a fantastic photo shoot.
15. Seven Sacred Pools
The Seven Sacred Pools in Sedona is a stunning Instagram spot located along the Soldier Pass Trail.
These pools are a series of naturally carved sandstone basins that fill with water. The amount of water in the pools depends on recent rainfall, so they’re more dramatic during or after the rainy season.
The hike is moderately difficult, so keep that in mind!
16. Subway Cave
The Subway Cave in Sedona is a unique sandstone formation along the Boynton Canyon Trail.
It looks a lot like a natural tunnel. Its arched walls and soft light make it a magical spot for photos.
While the trail is moderately challenging, the stunning views and the cave’s vibe make it worth the hike!
Page
Keep on reading: 1 Awesome Day in Page, Arizona: Itinerary and Insider Tips
17. Lower Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon is one of the coolest Instagram spots in the world (I am not kidding). Every single picture I took in this fabulous slot canyon came out awesome!
Sadly, you can’t take any videos in the Lower Antelope Canyon, as your mandatory tour guide will tell you.
Tip: Use a warm-vibrant filter while taking your pics!
18. Upper Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon is the more famous one of the two slot canyons.
It is slightly more expensive to visit – but you might get a chance to see one of the fantastic light beams come in through the ceiling.
Both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon are super Instagram-worthy photo spots. If you can’t decide, make sure to read my full guide on Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon!
Keep on reading: Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon? Honest Review!
19. Viral Shell Gas Station
We’ve probably all seen the Instagram reel that talks about a super cool photo spot in Page, AZ right behind a Shell Gas Station.
Well, we went there and it did not disappoint. The colors are a bit similar to Antelope Canyon, but you can visit without a tour and without the masses of people there. Also, you are allowed to make videos too!
20. Vermillion Cliffs
The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is known for its vibrant, layered rock formations, dramatic canyons, and super cool landscapes.
There are a couple of interesting Instagram spots in this area, so you’ll need some time if you want to explore them all!
The Wave: A totally bucket-list spot for photographers! It’s a sandstone formation with pretty swirls of color, but it’s highly protected. You need a permit (and some luck!) to visit since only 64 people are allowed daily
White Pocket: Less crowded than The Wave, but equally stunning, with surreal patterns and white stone formations
Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness: This awesome spot, is full of slot canyons like Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest slot canyons in the world
21. Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is a stunning, instagrammable spot in Arizona. The Colorado River curves into a dramatic horseshoe-shaped meander – and it looks devastatingly cool!
It’s an easy hike to the overlook, from there you’ll have breathtaking views of the canyon and river below. It is a super popular spot, especially at sunrise or sunset.
If you walk a bit away from the viewing platform (but be careful) you can take some pretty cool pics!
22. Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir on the Colorado River, and you can find it on the border between Arizona and Utah.
It is also famous for its striking red rock canyons, crystal-clear waters, and endless Instagram photo opportunities.
You can find many cool spots from where to take pictures, simply take a drive around and stop whenever you like!
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is located on the Arizona-Utah border. It is a breathtaking desert landscape full of red sandstone buttes and mesas. It’s a sacred area for the Navajo Nation.
There are lots of Instagrammable spots in this area – and I’ll present you with my favorites!
23. Hunt’s Mesa
For those willing to hike or take a guided tour, Hunts Mesa offers a panoramic view of the valley’s famous formations from above. It’s breathtaking, especially at sunset or under the stars.
Keep in mind that this spot is only available to advanced hikers!
24. Forrest Gump Point
Forrest Gump Point is located on Highway 163 which goes right through Monument Valley. It is an iconic spot where Forrest stopped running in the movie Forrest Gump.
The view features a long stretch of road leading straight to the dramatic red buttes of Monument Valley.
It’s a popular stop for photos – so it might be quite busy! As usual, it is super stunning in the golden hour!
25. Highway 163
If you follow Highway 163 from the Forrest Gump Point toward Page, AZ – you’ll encounter several more awesome Instagram spots.
Especially on the other side of the red sandstones, the road is a lot less busy and you can take pictures all by yourself!
26. John Forde Point
John Ford Point is also located in Monument Valley. From this cool spot, you’ll get views of the iconic sandstone formations as well.
The point is named after the famous director who filmed many Westerns there. You can even pose for photos on horseback, capturing the essence of classic Western films.
Grand Canyon National Park
27. North Rim
The Grand Canyon’s North Rim is pure Instagram magic.
It has impressive rugged cliffs and fewer crowds than the famous South Rim. Of course, there are some jaw-dropping views.
Capture the iconic Cape Royal, where sunrise and sunset paint the canyon in dreamy hues. Don’t miss Bright Angel Point for panoramic shots.
For a unique touch, snap some forest-meets-canyon vibes along the Transept Trail—it’s all about those moody, unexpected contrasts!
Keep on reading: Awesome 1 Day Grand Canyon Itinerary (North Rim)
28. Havasupai
Havasupai is a hidden oasis in the Grand Canyon. It is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waterfalls and red rock cliffs.
Spots like Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls are perfect for those dreamy water shots. The hike to these secluded spots is challenging but so worth it.
29. South Rim
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the classic go-to for jaw-dropping views and endless Instagram spots.
Check out the most iconic spots, like Mather Point and Desert View Watchtower.
Hike the Rim Trail for easy access to canyon views, and go to Hopi Point, which is famous for epic sunsets.
The South Rim is much more busy than the North Rim, so try to go off-season for better pics!
30. Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is famous for its colorful fossilized trees, which are millions of years old. It is super underrated in my opinion!
The Painted Desert is a must-see. It is a rainbow-colored badland perfect for Insta photos. Don’t miss Blue Mesa, where trails go through unique blue-hued landscapes.
It’s also one of the few national parks you can explore on Route 66, making it a nostalgic and super Instagrammable stop!
Conclusion
Arizona is a dream destination for nature lovers and Instagram fans alike – as we have seen in this ultimate blog post.
It has so many dramatic landscapes, colorful deserts, and hidden oases, that there’s no shortage of stunning spots to photograph.
Obviously, you’ll need to see the famous Grand Canyon and the otherworldly beauty of Antelope Canyon. Sedona, Tucson, and Monument Valley are of course other must-visit spots.
These 30 nature spots prove that this state isn’t just about deserts—it’s about vibrant colors, breathtaking views, and unforgettable adventures.
So pack your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and start exploring. Arizona’s natural beauty is more than worth the trip—and your Instagram feed will thank you!
I hope you loved this summary and will have a blast planning your Arizona adventure.
Keep on reading:
Ultimate Southwest USA Road Trip Itinerary (4 – 8 Weeks)
10 Most Scenic Highways in the Southwest USA (Besides Route 66)
Arizona in Winter: The Ultimate Travel Guide
15 Beautiful Places For a Winter Holiday in the Southwest USA
Visiting Arizona: Everything You Need to Know
About The Author
Sabrina is a 30 year old Air Force Wife and passionate travel blogger, currently based in New Mexico. She loves exploring the Southwest USA with her drone.
Sabrina’s mission is help travellers have an authentic, relaxed and instagrammable trip through the American Southwest.
