2026 Arizona Travel Awards Winners

Arizona might be the 48th state, but when it comes to scenic outdoor adventures, eye-catching art festivals and award-winning restaurants, it ranks near the top of any credible list, attracting visitors from all corners of the world. To celebrate those destinations that set our state apart from the rest, the Arizona Travel Awards has returned for a third year.

The program, presented by Cities West Media and selected by an independent panel of judges, highlights the attractions and activities that captivate visitors and residents alike. The awards are comprised of 33 categories, ranging from brewery to museum. In the interest of fairness and equal coverage, some awards are split into large- and small-market subcategories.

Our select group of judges, with experience exploring and working across the state’s regions and hospitality venues, reviewed the unique qualities and innovations of destinations and businesses, small and large, to select the winners. The 2026 Arizona Travel Awards winners will also be highlighted on arizonatravelawards.com and the Arizona Travel Awards’ social media accounts, including @arizonatravelawards on Instagram.

MEET THE JUDGES

ART FESTIVAL

Tubac Festival of the Arts
(Small Market)

This five-day event proves that art is the journey as well as the destination. For nearly 70 years, art enthusiasts have flocked to this small Southern Arizona town for five days in February to see more than 200 juried artists from around the world showcase their impressive range of work in a multitude of mediums. It’s all set against Tubac’s jaw-dropping mountain views and adobe architecture. tubacaz.com 

ALT (Art, Light, Technology) Fest, Mesa
(Big market)

In March, ALT Fest returned to Mesa Arts Center as part of the city’s Arts & Culture Week. Attendees explored local creativity through immersive experiences, including hands-on activities, demonstrations and interactive augmented reality exhibits, all coming from local artists and student and creative organizations. “It is not just a festival people attend, it is something they step inside of together, creating moments of wonder, connection and discovery for all ages,” says Mandy Tripoli, the executive director of Mesa Arts Center. mesaartscenter.com/alt-fest

BAR

The General Store
(Small market)

Like a great conversation, it’s hard to leave this pleasant spot located inside Flagstaff’s High Country Motor Lodge. Grab your favorite drink, sip slowly and linger as you enjoy the charming, vintage interior. Then gather with friends around one of the fire pits to settle in as the stars twinkle above and live music plays. “The good stuff happens outside your room,” says Emily Dille, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Management at Marc & Rose Hospitality. “This is a place that pulls people out of their rooms and into the moment.” 1000 W. Route 66, Flagstaff, 928-774-5221, highcountrymotorlodge.com/the-general-store

The Little Woody
(Big market)

The Little Woody is a huge standout in Phoenix’s Arcadia neighborhood, combining all the charms of a dive bar with a high-end cocktail lounge. Guests can grab their favorite drink, enjoy some bites and chat in a cozy booth or wander through its rooms to check out its quirky owl décor or play darts, Skee-Ball or a round of pool. 4228 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 602-955-0339, littlewoodyaz.com

BREWERY

Huss Brewing Co.

Huss Brewing Co. has become an Arizona favorite because it focuses on making quality, balanced brews that go down smooth, including its Scottsdale Blonde, Koffee Kölsch and seasonal Oktoberfest. “Brewed more traditionally, we focus on balance and drinkability,” says Elisa Duprey, Huss’s Director of Marketing. “We take pride in our ties to Arizona through our local partnerships, including being the official craft beer of ASU, and are always looking for ways to be involved in the community as well as to be on all local grocery shelves.” Two Valley locations, hussbrewing.com

DESTINATION MARKETING CAMPAIGN

Mesa Arts and Culture Week
(Big market)

With destinations like the Arizona Museum of Natural History, idea Museum and Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, Mesa has emerged as a Valley cultural hot spot. The city launched the online multi-channel marketing campaign, Mesa Arts and Culture Week (March 4-14), to share its bounty. The promotion led to increased online traffic and a significant increase in visitors to its downtown area. visitmesa.com

Visit Superior
(Small market)

Travelers have recently discovered the charm of Superior, Arizona, thanks to its innovative marketing campaign. Titled “Expand Your Wonder,” the small town didn’t boast about its numerous attractions, of which it has many. Rather, it marketed a feeling of fascination, encouraging visitors to hike its trails, view and purchase art from its creatives, and build memorable moments inside its city limits. superiorarizona.com

DESTINATION OF THE YEAR

Queen Creek Olive Mill

The Queen Creek Olive Mill doesn’t just sell olive oil. This picturesque estate, located in the southeastern suburbs of Phoenix, offers guests the opportunity to embark on immersive culinary adventures, from guided tours and workshops to delicious food and shopping, creating an unforgettable journey for both families and foodies. “We’ve watched children play, couples celebrate and neighbors connect here for years, and that sense of community is at the heart of everything we do,” says owner Perry Rea. 25062 S. Meridan Rd., Queen Creek, 480-888-9290, queencreekolivemill.com

DESTINATION SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT

Visit Cottonwood’s Instagram
(Small market)

They say you only have a couple of seconds to capture someone’s attention on social media, so whoever is posting the images and videos on Visit Cottonwood’s Instagram account has their technique down. From the scenery at Montezuma’s Castle National Monument to its wine tasting rooms along its historical downtown, this profile captures what makes this Verde Valley community a must-visit destination. “Our goal with Visit Cottonwood’s social media has always been to showcase the authentic heart, vibrant culture, and natural beauty and character of our community,” says Tourism and Economic Development Manager, Michelle Kostecki. @visitcottonwoodaz

Visit Mesa’s City Limitless Podcast
(Big market)

Like a wildflower in the desert, the City of Mesa has blossomed into a cultural destination, and the video podcast City Limitless tells the story of its growth with in-depth interviews with its residents, including Oscar-winning actor Troy Kotsur and local concert promoter Danny Zelisko. visitmesa.com

FOOD FESTIVAL OR EVENT

Queen Creek Olive Mill Garlic Fest

Is there a better pairing than garlic and olive oil? Queen Creek Olive Mill celebrates its commitment to the shapely allium with its free Garlic Fest, which is held annually over two weekends in September. The venue is a working farm that harvests six varieties of the aromatic vegetable, and those in attendance can sample some of the bold, flavorful food that incorporates it. “This event celebrates our organically grown farm garlic, Arizona’s bounty and the joy of community. From the aroma of roasting garlic and fresh olive oil to families enjoying great food, music and farm activities, it has become a beloved tradition,” says owner Perry Rea. 25062 S. Meridan Rd., Queen Creek, 480-888-9290, queencreekolivemill.com

GOLF COURSE

Las Sendas Golf Club
(Big market)

Nationally recognized by Golf Digest, Mesa’s Las Sendas Golf Club offers players a challenging course without sacrificing scenery, with stunning views of the Superstitions and the Downtown Phoenix skyline. The experience continues after your 18 holes at The Patio & Grille at Las Sendas, which features outdoor dining and live entertainment. 7555 E. Eagle Crest Dr., Mesa, 480-396-4000, lassendas.com

Sewailo Golf Club
(Small market)

Speaking of challenges, the 18th hole at Sewailo Golf Club at Casino Del Sol is a 416-yard par-4 with an island green. But the real attraction is the scenery, with more than 30,000 indigenous plants, cacti and flowers throughout the fairways, making it the Tucson golf course nonpareil with our judges. 5655 W. Valencia Rd., Tucson, 520-838-6645, casinodelsol.com

HIKING/BIKING TRAIL

Hawes Trail System

Perhaps the best way to describe the Hawes Trail System is that it’s like a Choose Your Own Adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in northeast Mesa between the Salt River and Usery Mountain, this 75-mile network of interconnected trails was created by local cyclists and laid out so users can create their own route tailored to their skill level. The Hawes Trail Alliance, Tonto National Forest and other local stakeholders have helped with its upkeep and expansion, adding more than 40 miles of new and improved trails. hawestrailalliance.com

HISTORIC SITE

Taliesin West

Frank Lloyd Wright used his Sonoran surroundings to design and build his 494-acre winter home and studio in north Scottsdale in 1937. It now stands as a testament to his legacy as America’s seminal architect, attracting more than 105,000 visitors from around the world to see this National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site and take part in tours, programs and other events. “Eighty-eight years after the first buildings rose from the desert, it remains a privilege to steward Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy and its enduring message of better, more intentional living,” says Joe Specter, President and CEO of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale, 888-516-0811, franklloydwright.org

HOTEL

High Country Motor Lodge
(Small market)

Flagstaff’s High Country Motor Lodge defines the vintage feel of the roadside retreat. Not only does it provide some needed respite from the open road, but it is also a spot where you unwind with friends and make new ones. “The lobby isn’t a check-in moment – it’s the heartbeat of the lodge,” says Emily Dille, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Management at Marc & Rose Hospitality. “Designed as a warm, layered living room for everyone passing through, it shifts throughout the day with curated playlists, natural energy and an easy sense of flow.” 1000 W. Route 66, Flagstaff, 928-774-5221, highcountrymotorlodge.com

The Global Ambassador
(Big market)

In the less than three years since it opened, Sam Fox’s first venture into the hospitality space has earned countless accolades from national publications and a coveted Michelin Key. “Our people, their commitment to service excellence and our focus on every detail are what make us truly special. In a market defined by Southwestern aesthetic and hyper-modern design, The Global Ambassador stands in a class entirely its own,” says Younes Atallah, the hotel’s managing director. “It’s the kind of warmth and sophistication more often found in a Parisian boutique hotel than in the Arizona desert.” 4360 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, 480-800-2211, globalambassadorhotel.com

ICONIC TOURIST ATTRACTION

Queen Creek Olive Mill

Arizona isn’t the first place you think of when it comes to olive oil, but that’s what makes the Queen Creek Olive Mill a truly remarkable place. And visitors stay for the day to enjoy guided tours and tastings as well as farm-to-table meals. “Queen Creek Olive Mill welcomes over 750,000 visitors each year from around the world to experience our working olive mill, desert groves, fresh olive oil tastings and warm Arizona hospitality,” owner Perry Rea says. 25062 S. Meridan Rd., Queen Creek, 480-888-9290, queencreekolivemill.com

INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOT

Queen Creek Olive Mill
(Big market)

Between the colorful food and the venue’s natural, inviting atmosphere, guests of the Queen Creek Olive Mill often have their phones out to share their visit with others. “Queen Creek Olive Mill offers stunning views of our sun-drenched olive groves, historic working mill, charming desert landscapes and our popular restaurant that visitors love to capture,” owner Perry Rea says. “From golden hour photos among the trees to vibrant scenes at the market and restaurant, it’s a place that naturally inspires beautiful memories.” 25062 S. Meridan Rd., Queen Creek, 480-888-9290, queencreekolivemill.com

Sky Rock Sedona
(Small market)

The red rocks of Sedona are the perfect backdrop for any snapshot, but they look quite different when snapped from the point of view of Sky Rock Sedona. Natural formations such as Snoopy Rock, Thunder Mountain and Coffee Pot Rock can be captured from this boutique hotel without obstruction, inspiring visitors and giving them a deeper connection with the scenery. 1200 W. AZ-89A, Sedona, 928-282-3072, skyrocksedona.com

LIVE MUSIC VENUE

Pepsi Amphitheater

Ensconced in the ponderosa pines at Fort Tuthill Park in Flagstaff, every genre of music seemingly sounds great at this outdoor music venue. In fact, more than half of the audience who attend a show comes from Maricopa County. “We’ve worked for years to bring world-class talent and events to Pepsi Amphitheater, and after 14 years, it’s become a respected industry stop on many tours,” says Reed Glick, principal at R Entertainmen.  Fort Tuthill County Park, 250 Garrison Rd., Flagstaff, 480-656-9940, pepsiamp.com

MUSEUM

Arizona Baseball Museum

Baseball and Arizona have a long shared history, and the curated exhibits at the Arizona Baseball Museum at the Mesa Historical Museum go beyond the Cactus League. It traces the sport’s presence in the state’s mining towns and wartime leagues, creating a rich, detailed narrative about America’s pastime. “When I see people walk through our doors and light up with nostalgia, sharing their own baseball memories, it makes me so happy,” says Susan Ricci, the museum’s executive director. 2345 N. Horne St., Mesa, 480-835-2286, arizonabaseballmuseum.org

OUTDOOR ACTIVITY

Rainbow Ryders

Even if you think you’ve seen it all in the 48th state, chances are you’ll view the desert very differently from inside one of Rainbow Ryders’ hot air balloons. Thousands of locals and tourists have witnessed the colors of sunrise or sunset or taken in the mountain landscape from inside the balloon’s gondola, with each journey ending with a celebratory toast. “A ride in one of our balloons gives a peaceful bird’s-eye view of the Valley – no traffic, no crowds, just open sky and sweeping landscapes,” says director of operations Lindsay Mayer. 7345 N. Glen Harbor Blvd., Glendale, 866-965-0877, rainbowryders.com

RESORT

Enchantment Resort
(Small market)

If you’re looking to get in touch with your creative side, visit the latest addition to this resort near scenic Boynton Canyon. The 2,000-square-foot space offers hands-on creative workshops, including watercolor painting, pottery glazing and beading. But for those who simply want a quiet afternoon by the pool, its newly renovated deck offers stunning views, spacious cabanas and a delicious poolside menu. 525 Boynton Canyon Rd., Sedona, 928-282-2900, enchantmentresort.com

Miraval Resort and Spa
(Big market)

Most resorts are created to help visitors relax. Miraval Arizona is designed to improve one’s well-being. In addition to world-class spa treatments, it offers programming such as sunrise hikes, equine therapy and meditations that can help those going through life transitions or processing grief. Miraval Arizona also encourages a digital-free environment, offering workshops to help visitors practice digital mindfulness upon leaving. “While we’ve continued to evolve and innovate over the years, our purpose remains the same – meeting guests where they are and supporting their well-being journey with mindfulness, balance, and compassion at the center of everything we do,” says general manager Mark Stebbings. 5000 E. Via Estancia, Tucson, 855-403-0700, miravalresorts.com

RESTAURANT
(Big market)

Théa

The spirit of the Mediterranean comes alive at Théa, the rooftop restaurant at The Global Ambassador hotel. Guests can sip wine and sample flavorful coastal-inspired entrées against one of the Valley’s most recognizable natural backdrops, Camelback Mountain. 4360 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, 480-800-2211, globalambassadorhotel.com

Virtù Honest Craft

The Mediterranean also inspired the creative menu built by James Beard-nominated chef Gio Osso. His selections incorporate seasonal ingredients and bold flavors into a variety of pasta and seafood dishes, providing an inspired dining experience. 3701 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, 480-946-3477, virtuscottsdale.com

RESTAURANT
(Small market)

Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria

Although the Cottonwood restaurants that share this category are two distinctly separate entities, they do have one big name in common: Tool frontman and Arizona wine enthusiast Maynard James Keenan, who owns both. Located adjacent to his vineyards, Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery and Trattoria overlooks Old Town Cottonwood, courtesy of a tram ride up to the top. The ingredients on the menu are even sourced on-site. 770 N. Verde Heights Dr., Cottonwood, 928-639-1001, merkintrattoria.com

Queen B Vinyl Café

While both winners in this category offer award-winning wine, Queen B Vinyl Café also sources the finest organic coffee beans from around the world and roasts them in-house. A cup goes great with the all-day breakfast and lunch menu, which includes pastries, burgers and homemade gelato. 102 Pima St., Cottonwood, 928-634-1173, queenbvinylcafe.com

SCENIC VIEW

Sky Rock Sedona

Great wine, mystical vortexes and great hiking trails are just a few of the reasons why people flock to the Verde Valley. But when someone books a stay at Sky Rock Sedona, chances are they want to see the stunning red rock formations. The panoramic views of Snoopy Rock, Thunder Mountain and Coffee Pot Rock are never out of a guest’s line of sight, making for an awe-spiring and humbling experience. 1200 W. AZ-89A, Sedona, 928-282-3072, skyrocksedona.com

SPA

Miraval Arizona’s Life in Balance Spa
(Big market)

The Life in Balance Spa offers services that help guests find tranquility for all stages of their lives. In addition to its new cold plunges, steam rooms and saunas, the spa offers services for new mothers and mothers-to-be. Its latest treatment additions include the botanical-based Resonance Facial and the Brilliance Facial, which uses plant-based extracts to restore the skin’s integrity and glow through plant-powered extracts, hyaluronic acids and facial massage. “What makes this place so special is the way our desert setting inspires people to slow down, be present and reconnect with themselves, others and with the natural world around them,” says general manager Mark Stebbings. E. Via Estancia, Tucson, 855-403-0700, miravalresorts.com

Mii Amo at Enchantment Resort
(Small market)

Mii Amo, which recently earned its first Forbes Five-Star rating, sets itself apart by focusing services that heal the body both inside and out. For example, guests can take part in Aura Photography or go on a Quiet Quest Journey, which encourages stillness through meditation, intention-setting and quiet reflection. 525 Boynton Canyon Rd., Sedona, 928-282-2900, miiamo.com

UNDER-THE-RADAR ACTIVITY

Rare Earth Gallery
(Big market)

The 15-foot-tall Transformer outside the Rare Earth Gallery serves as a metaphor for the treasures inside “the Eighth Wonder of the World.” Eye-catching crystals, minerals and gemstones of every shape, size and color make up its inventory. There are also rare formations, dramatic geodes, illuminated onyx, fluorite, calcite, quartz and sculptural pieces sourced from around the world. Visitors can also pop inside its event space for a full moon sound bath and other wellness events. “Over the past 14 years, it’s been a privilege to welcome visitors and locals alike,” says owner Wayne Helfand. 6401 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek, 480-575-4360, rareearthgallerycc.com

Caduceus Cellar Ventura Room
(Small market)

For enthusiasts who want an in-depth look at how Maynard James Keenan creates his award-winning line of wines, the Caduceus Cellar Ventura Room offers a private tour of the grounds, greenhouse and barrel room. The experience also includes a chance to sample some limited-edition and rare archival selections dating back to 2004 as well as a dining experience featuring seasonal dishes from Merkin Vineyards’ orchards. 760 Verde Heights Dr., Cottonwood, caduceusvscventuraroom.com

UNIQUE LODGING

Village Camp Flagstaff

Wanting to connect with nature doesn’t mean giving up luxury. Village Camp, located minutes from Flagstaff among Northern Arizona’s ponderosa pines, offers both thoughtfully designed cabins and spacious RV sites centered around a beautiful mountain-view clubhouse. The property includes a heated outdoor pool, hot tub and fire pits. You can also get to know your fellow guests at any of the gathering spaces, at the on-site bistro, or at any of the live music and seasonal events scheduled at the site throughout the year. 1 VC Dr., Bellemont, 928-928-378-7580, villagecamp.com 

WINERY

Merkin Vineyards & Caduceus Cellars

Over the last two decades, Arizona’s Verde Valley has become a destination for wine connoisseurs, and much of that can be credited to Grammy Award-winning musician Maynard James Keenan. The Tool frontman launched Merkin Vineyards and Caduceus Cellars more than two decades ago, and it has now expanded over 100 acres in multiple sites across the 48th state, with six of them located in the Verde Valley. The winery produces 14,000 cases of vino a year across its multiple brands. caduceus.org