The best time to visit Arizona: a month-by-month guide
From Scottsdale and Paradise Valley to Sedona and beyond, discover the best time to visit Arizona with our month-by-month guide.
The best time to visit Arizona: a month-by-month guide
The best time to visit Arizona is from October to April, when temperatures are mild, desert landscapes are vibrant, and iconic destinations such as Scottsdale, Sedona, Phoenix, Flagstaff, Paradise Valley, and Gilbert are at their most enjoyable. Whether you’re exploring red-rock trails, golfing at world-renowned desert courses, relaxing at resort-style villas, or discovering local arts and cuisine, Arizona offers unforgettable experiences year-round.
Visitors staying in our Arizona vacation rentals - from luxury villas in Paradise Valley to spacious family retreats in Scottsdale - will experience private amenities, pools, panoramic desert views, and optional concierge for a first-class vacation.
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Arizona in January
Average temperature: 40-70°F (4-21°C) Rainfall: Low
January is one of the most comfortable months to explore Arizona. With sunny days and mild temperatures, it’s perfect for hiking in Sedona, strolling Old Town Scottsdale, wandering the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, or enjoying a winter getaway in Paradise Valley.
In the high country, Flagstaff turns into a winter playground, ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy cabin retreats. January also hosts major events such as the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction in Scottsdale.
Weather in Arizona in January
Cool, sunny, and comfortable - ideal for outdoor exploring.
Arizona in February
Average temperature: 43-73°F (6-23°C) Rainfall: Low
February combines gorgeous weather with lively events. Baseball fans flock to Phoenix and Scottsdale for the beginning of Cactus League Spring Training festivities.
Sedona’s red-rock trails are still quiet, offering serene photography and hiking conditions. Paradise Valley’s spa resorts are in full swing, while Flagstaff continues its winter sports season. It’s a wonderful month for outdoor adventures and wellness-focused escapes.
Weather in Arizona in February
Mild and mostly sunny, with ideal outdoor temperatures.
Arizona in March
Average temperature: 47-78°F (8-26°C) Rainfall: Low to moderate
March is one of the best months to visit Arizona, offering warm days, cool nights, and vibrant spring landscapes. Wildflowers begin blooming, especially around Phoenix, Gilbert, and Scottsdale.
Cactus League baseball hits its peak, and Sedona offers ideal hiking weather before the busy season arrives. Paradise Valley’s luxury resorts host culinary events, wellness workshops, and poolside gatherings - perfect for travelers seeking mild temperatures and sunshine.
Weather in Arizona in March
Warm and sunny with blooming desert flora.
Arizona in April
Average temperature: 53-85°F (12-29°C) Rainfall: Low
April is prime time for hiking and exploring outdoor attractions. Sedona’s trails are spectacular, with red rocks glowing at sunrise and sunset. Scottsdale hosts luxury events and spring arts festivals, while Phoenix gardens and parks burst with wildflowers.
Weather in Arizona in April
Warm, bright, and dry - ideal for any outdoor activity.
Arizona in May
Average temperature: 62-95°F (17-35°C) Rainfall: Very low
May transitions into early summer, with hot afternoons in lower-elevation cities like Phoenix, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, but beautifully mild weather in Flagstaff. It’s a great month for sunrise hikes, golf outings, and poolside afternoons in Paradise Valley.
Sedona remains comfortably warm, attracting wellness retreats and outdoor concerts. Expect warm, sunny days and clear skies.
Weather in Arizona in May
Hot in desert areas; cooler in northern regions.
Arizona in June
Average temperature: 70-104°F (21-40°C) Rainfall: Very low
June is one of Arizona’s hottest months, especially in Phoenix and Scottsdale. This is the time for early morning hikes, spa days, and enjoying vacation rentals with private pools.
In contrast, Flagstaff is at its summer best, offering mild temperatures perfect for camping, stargazing, and mountain adventures. Sedona begins its warm season but is still manageable with shaded trails and creek-side escapes.
Weather in Arizona in June
Extremely hot in southern Arizona; pleasant in the mountains.
Arizona in July
Average temperature: 75-106°F (24-41°C) Rainfall: Moderate (start of monsoon season)
July is peak summer and the start of the monsoon season. Expect impressive desert storms, dramatic sunsets, and high humidity.
Travelers still enjoy cooling off in private pools, spa resorts in Paradise Valley, and indoor attractions in Phoenix and Gilbert. Sedona and Flagstaff remain popular for their cooler climates and family-friendly outdoor attractions.
Weather in Arizona in July
Very hot with periodic thunderstorms and cooler nights.
Arizona in August
Average temperature: 75-104°F (24-40°C) Rainfall: High (monsoon season)
August remains hot but features spectacular monsoon cloud formations and cooler evenings. This is one of the best months for budget-conscious travelers, with excellent deals on accommodations in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Sedona’s creeks, such as Oak Creek and the turquoise waters of Havasu Falls near the Grand Canyon National Park offer refreshing swimming spots. Flagstaff meanwhile remains mild and lively, with summer events and festivals.
Weather in Arizona in August
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms.
Arizona in September
Average temperature: 68-99°F (20-37°C) Rainfall: Moderate
September brings gradually cooling temperatures and the end of the monsoon season. Sedona becomes especially scenic, with early signs of fall on higher trails.
Scottsdale and Phoenix begin hosting outdoor events again as heat decreases. Flagstaff’s weather is perfect, drawing hikers, cyclists, and fall travelers. Families and big kids meanwhile will love the hugely popular Arizona State Fair, held each year from September through October.
Weather in Arizona in September
Warm days, cooler evenings, and tapering monsoon activity.
Arizona in October
Average temperature: 55-88°F (13-31°C) Rainfall: Low
October is one of the best months to visit Arizona, with perfect weather statewide. Sedona’s fall foliage is breathtaking, especially along Oak Creek. Scottsdale’s art walks, Phoenix food festivals, and outdoor concerts make this a lively and picturesque time.
Flagstaff becomes a fall-color destination, drawing leaf-peepers from around the country. Paradise Valley enjoys impeccable pool weather without extreme heat.
Weather in Arizona in October
Mild, dry, and ideal for sightseeing.
Arizona in November
Average temperature: 45-73°F (7-23°C) Rainfall: Low
November offers crisp mornings and warm afternoons - perfect for outdoor activities. Sedona and Scottsdale are fantastic for hiking, golfing, and scenic drives.
Phoenix’s gardens and cultural venues host fall festivals, while Flagstaff begins cooling down for winter. Visitors enjoy clear skies, minimal crowds, and great hiking conditions.
Weather in Arizona in November
Cool, sunny, and comfortable.
Arizona in December
Average temperature: 38-66°F (3-19°C) Rainfall: Low
December brings mild desert winter weather to Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley, making it ideal for holiday events, festive lights, and outdoor shopping. Flagstaff often sees snowfall, transforming into a winter wonderland for skiing and holiday retreats.
Meanwhile, Sedona sparkles during the season with holiday markets and illuminated red-rock vistas.
Weather in Arizona in December
Cool and crisp; mountain regions may see snow.
FAQs About Visiting Arizona
What is the best month to go to Arizona?
The best months to visit Arizona are October through April, when temperatures are mild and perfect for outdoor activities statewide.
What is the cheapest time to go to Arizona?
The cheapest time to visit Arizona is during the summer months (June - August), especially in Phoenix and Scottsdale, when temperatures are high and hotel rates drop significantly.
What are the three hottest months in Arizona?
Arizona’s three hottest months are June, July, and August, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C) in southern areas.
What is the best time to go to the Grand Canyon?
The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is April - June and September - October, when temperatures are comfortable, crowds are manageable, and visibility is excellent.
