50 Interesting & Fun Facts About Arizona State You Should Know

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Aerial of rocky canyons with red and yellow layers and a river flowing through
The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders and a famous landmark in Arizona

When you think of Arizona, you probably think about sunny weather, deserts, and cacti, right? Maybe you even think about the Grand Canyon!

However, there are many other interesting and fun facts about Arizona state worth knowing about. From its natural history to its culture, it's one of the most interesting states in the country!

For example, did you know that the weather around the state isn't all the same? What about the fact that it's got some of the most dangerous animals in the country?

Whether you've been to Arizona before, you're planning a trip to the state for the first time, or you're just simply interested in learning more about it, here's some Arizona trivia that will intrigue you. Keep reading to learn more!

50 Arizona State Facts

  1. Arizona Fun Facts
    1. Arizona was the 48th state
    2. It's also called the "Copper State"
    3. Arizona has the most populous state capital
    4. The Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is in Arizona
    5. The state has a population of seven million people
    6. Lake Havasu City offers fishing in the desert
    7. The state motto is "God enriches"
    8. Arizona is home to the Petrified Forest National Park
    9. It's also known as the "Grand Canyon State"
    10. Arizona has an official state fossil
    11. The Saguaro cactus blossom is the state flower
    12. The Navajo Nation is within Arizona's borders
    13. Arizona is home to one of the "seven natural wonders"
    14. The state doesn't observe daylight savings
    15. Arizona's official state bird is the Cactus wren
  2. Interesting Facts About Arizona
    1. There are 22 Native American tribes in the state
    2. The Sonoran Desert is one of the hottest places in the USA
    3. The Saguaro cactus is native to the area
    4. Kitt Peak National Observatory has one of the largest solar telescopes
    5. The Four Corners Monument lets you be in four places at once
    6. The state tree is the palo verde
    7. The state gets water from the Colorado River
    8. There are 22 national parks and 18 national monuments
    9. Arizona used to be part of Mexico
    10. Astronauts train in Arizona
    11. The highest point in the state is Humphrey's Peak
    12. Phoenix is the hottest US city
    13. Mules deliver mail in a part of Arizona
    14. Arizona has the largest human-made lake in the country
    15. You can't cut down the cacti in Arizona
  3. Funny Facts About Arizona
    1. Arizona has an official state neckwear
    2. You might see Gila monsters in Arizona
    3. Arizona has a London Bridge in Lake Havasu City
    4. It snows in Arizona
    5. There are no dinosaur bones in the Grand Canyon
  4. Weird Facts About Arizona
    1. The right to remain silent began in Arizona in 1966
    2. Dust storms and monsoons both happen
    3. The unofficial state food is the chimichanga
    4. The country's oldest rodeos are here
    5. You can't refuse to give someone water in Arizona
  5. Cool Facts About Arizona
    1. Navajo is the third most spoken language
    2. There are around 4,000 mountain peaks in the state
    3. The lowest point in Arizona is 70 feet
    4. The state animal is the ringtail cat
    5. Arizona has the world's largest Kokopelli
  6. Scary Facts About Arizona
    1. There are 13 rattlesnake species
    2. Scorpions are common
    3. Skinwalkers are an urban legend
    4. Luana's Canyon has spooky echoes
    5. Flagstaff is supposedly haunted

Show all

Arizona Fun Facts

Colorful buildings and skyscrapers surrounded by greenery in front of mountains
Phoenix being the most populous capital is one of the fun facts about Arizona state

Arizona was the 48th state

To start this list of interesting facts about Arizona is the fact that it was one of the last territories to become a state. Arizona was the 48th out of the 50 states to join the USA. Arizona had been part of the country's territory since 1848. However, it didn't get its star on the American flag until 1912.

It's also called the "Copper State"

If you're wondering what Arizona nickname you might find on the state's license plate, you might be surprised to know that one of its monikers is the "Copper State." The state's ground is rich in this metal.

Due to the large deposits of copper, mining has been a large part of the state's economy since the 19th century. Today, the metal is used by local artists in their work.

Arizona has the most populous state capital

Arizona's state capital is the city of Phoenix. Since it is the state's most famous city, most people already know that fact. However, most people don't know that Phoenix is the US state capital with the largest population. As of the last census, there were nearly 2 million people who called Phoenix home, and that number has likely risen in the time since.

The Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is in Arizona

Arizona is full of some of the country's most unique landscapes, one of which is the world-renowned Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

This landmark is a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve due to the diverse plant and animal life found here. Due to this designation, the area is used for scientific research on habitat preservation.

The state has a population of seven million people

Arizona may have the capital with the largest population, but that doesn't translate to every part of the state. With a territory-wide population of just over seven million, it's only the 14th most populated state in the country. However, the state has seen a growth rate of roughly 1% each year. Fifty years ago, in fact, the population was only two million.

Lake Havasu City offers fishing in the desert

Arizona is primarily made up of desert terrain, and much of the state has an arid climate. So, it might surprise you to learn that you can find Lake Havasu City on the edge of the Mohave desert. The name isn't tongue-in-cheek. The city takes its name from an actual lake that offers some of the most abundant fishing in the state.

The state motto is "God enriches"

If you ever get any official Arizona information papers, you may notice that the state has an official motto. "Ditat Deus" can be seen on the state's seal.

The motto is written in Latin and means "God Enriches." The saying has been the state's motto since 1863. Though it's not stated exactly where the phrase comes from, most US history buffs agree it's likely a biblical reference.

Aerial shot of geologic formations with layers in hues of purple, gray, and brown
Blue Mesa is located in the protected Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona

Arizona is home to the Petrified Forest National Park

In Arizona's northeast, you'll find Petrified Forest National Park and an area full of colorful petrified wood that dates back 200 million years.

Though the territory today is grassy and dry, it was once a rich forest that has been remarkably preserved. It's a protected area that aims to educate visitors about the state's history.

One of the fun facts about Arizona state is that the Grand Canyon is located in it
Horseshoe Bend in the Grand Canyon is a popular tourist attraction in Arizona

It's also known as the "Grand Canyon State"

When you don't see the moniker "Copper State" around, you'll likely notice Arizona's other nickname, the "Grand Canyon State." That's due to it being the home of Grand Canyon National Park.

Due to its size, you can see parts of the canyon from Utah and Nevada. However, Arizona offers the best and most expansive views of this national landmark.

Arizona has an official state fossil

Because petrified wood has long been associated with Arizona, it was officially recognized as the state fossil in 1988. It may not be what you consider a typical fossil when you're used to hearing about animal bones.

For fossils to form, very specific environmental factors must balance out perfectly. Heat, sediment size, and pressure will all affect the chances of a fossil developing. The fact that Arizona has so much petrified wood that's been preserved for millions of years is a scientific marvel.

The Saguaro cactus blossom is the state flower

While many different flowers can grow and thrive in Arizona, the official state flower is the Saguaro cactus blossom. This flower grows on the Saguaro cactus, one of the most important plants in Arizona.

Since 1931, the flower has been recognized as a symbol for the area. The flowers are white and waxy in texture, making them easily recognizable.

The Navajo Nation is within Arizona's borders

The Navajo Native Americans have a long and rich history and culture. They were crucial for US victories during WWII and have contributed to much of the state culture in Arizona.

So, it's no surprise that the Navajo Nation reservation, the largest reservation in the country, is within Arizona territory. Due to the size of the reservation, it also spans parts of Utah and New Mexico.

Arizona is home to one of the "seven natural wonders"

If you're looking for Arizona cool facts, you'll be happy to find out that it's the home of one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Grand Canyon is a natural marvel that is one of a kind on Earth.

The canyon is one of the most important monuments in the US. As such, it draws visitors from all over the US and from around the globe.

The state doesn't observe daylight savings

If you're tired of changing your clock twice a year for daylight savings, you should consider moving to Arizona. The state doesn't adjust the clock during the spring and keeps the same time all year.

Hawaii is the only other state in the country that doesn't observe DST. The only exception to this rule is the Navajo Nation, which is a sovereign territory within Arizona's borders.

A brown bird with black spots sitting atop a cactus under a clear blue sky
A Cactus Wren, Arizona's state bird, resting on top of a Saguaro cactus

Arizona's official state bird is the Cactus wren

If you're looking for a list of Arizona state symbols, don't forget about its state bird. The Cactus wren is native to the area and became a symbol for the state in 1931.

Since the bird is endemic to Arizona, no other state can claim it. Cactus wrens are vivacious little birds with a unique song you can hear when they're nesting in the spring.

Interesting Facts About Arizona

White and gray domes atop a tree-covered mountain overlooking a valley
Kitt Peak National Observatory houses one of the world's largest solar telescopes

There are 22 Native American tribes in the state

Though the Navajo are one of the most well-known Native American tribes in Arizona, they're far from the only one. Currently, there are 22 officially recognized tribes in the state.

These tribes are spread all over the state. The Navajo Nation reservation spans multiple state territories, but so do the Colorado River Indian Tribes and the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe.

Rippled sand dunes in a desert with a clear blue sky in the background
The Sonoran Desert is one of the hottest deserts in the US

The Sonoran Desert is one of the hottest places in the USA

Between the Mojave and the Chihuahuan deserts, you'll find the Sonoran Desert. This stretch of over 86 thousand square miles of land is often claimed to be the hottest desert in the US.

The average temperatures vary between 39 and 107 degrees Fahrenheit during the year. However, due to the lack of shade, it can often feel much warmer.

A desert with different varieties and sizes of cacti on a sunny day
Saguaro Cacti, exclusive to Southern Arizona, can grow as tall as trees

The Saguaro cactus is native to the area

The Saguaro cactus is a point of pride for Arizona. These cacti can grow to be as large as trees, and since they take so long to grow, the taller the cactus, the older it is. If you visit Saguaro National Park, you'll see some of the oldest in the state. These cacti are also only native to southern Arizona.

Kitt Peak National Observatory has one of the largest solar telescopes

The McMath-Pierce Solar Telescope contributes to some of the most interesting facts about Arizona state. This telescope used to be the largest solar telescope in the world and is found at the Kitt Peak National Observatory.

This telescope has helped scientists study the structure of sunspots and make important discoveries, such as the presence of water and isotopic helium in the sun.

A bronze disk embedded in a granite floor
Arizona shares the Four Corners Monument with New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah

The Four Corners Monument lets you be in four places at once

Arizona is one of the "Four Corners states." The borders of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona all come together to share a corner border.

A popular attraction for locals and tourists is the Four Corners Monument. This is a marked spot on the ground where these state borders meet. If you crouch with a hand or foot in each of the sections of the monument, you can technically be in 4 places at once.

The state tree is the palo verde

Though the Saguaro cactus may reach tree-like heights, it's not a tree. Thus, the actual state tree of Arizona is the palo verde.

One interesting fact about the Palo Verde is that there are actually two species of this tree that are native to Arizona- the Foothill Palo Verde and the Blue Palo Verde. No specific species were named in the approved House bill, so both species enjoy this honor.

The state gets water from the Colorado River

The Colorado River runs through Arizona on its path toward California's gulf. The river doesn't just cut through the state but also supplies water. The river isn't the only water source for the state. Most of Arizona's supply comes from groundwater. However, the river is still responsible for about 36% of the state's water.

There are 22 national parks and 18 national monuments

Arizona's unique climate and landscape have caused it to have some of the most interesting habitats in the country. So, it's no surprise that the state has 22 national parks and 18 national monuments.

Many of these monuments are natural and offer visitors dramatic looks at Arizona's territory far away from its cities. Arizona is a must-visit state if you're a history or nature lover.

Arizona used to be part of Mexico

Due to its proximity to the Mexican border, American history buffs will likely remember that the state used to be part of the Spanish and Mexican territories. Before 1848, the area was part of Sonora, a state in Mexico.

Though it's been a US territory since the mid-1800s, the state's Mexican history still plays an important role in its culture. In fact, many of the state's city and county names still show their old roots.

Astronauts train in Arizona

Some interesting information about Arizona you probably didn't know is that it's regularly been used as an astronaut training site. Astronauts undergo rigorous training at the official NASA center in Texas, which is more often used to train candidates for rocket conditions.

However, in order to get used to the terrain and perform geology exercises, they're often sent to Arizona. The state's landscape was thought to be a close match for the moon before the Apollo 11 mission, for example, so astronauts were sent here to prepare for the moon landing.

The highest point in the state is Humphrey's Peak

Arizona is far from being a flat state. It has thousands of mountains and hills, and most of the state is above sea level. However, even considering all that, you might be surprised to learn that its highest point is 12,633 feet. Humphrey's Peak is the 12th highest state point in the country. The hike to the top is 5 miles long and considered very challenging.

Phoenix is the hottest US city

In a country as large as the United States, climates can vary widely. The hottest parts of the country can also be vastly different. The temperature in Phoenix, Arizona, is typically over 100 degrees during the summer months.

Phoenix has experienced a 31-day heat streak where temperatures exceeded 110 degrees. Events like these contribute to Phoenix being the hottest city in the USA.

Mules deliver mail in a part of Arizona

When the postal service said snow, rain, and heat wouldn't be able to keep their workers from carrying mail, they meant it. That determination also covers difficult terrain.

The Havasupai is a Native American tribe who call the bottom of the Grand Canyon home. Unfortunately, reaching them by car is impossible. In order to deliver their mail, the USPS employs the use of special mail-delivery mules.

Mountains behind a large lake with a white power boat on the water
Lake Mead is the United States' largest human-made lake

Arizona has the largest human-made lake in the country

Being in the desert, Arizona doesn't have many natural lakes. While there's certainly water in the territory, construction was done to create more consistent water supplies.

Lake Mead is an example of this construction. It's found behind the Hoover Dam, which straddles the Nevada and Arizona state lines. It's also the largest human-made lake in the USA.

You can't cut down the cacti in Arizona

Arizona may be full of cacti, but that doesn't mean you can do anything to change or move them. If you want to cut down a cactus in the state, you need to get a permit first.

If you cut down any cactus, particularly the rare and prized Saguaro cactus, you'll risk up to 25 years in prison and a hefty fine. Even if you own the land the cactus is growing on, you need permission before you pull out the saw.

Funny Facts About Arizona

A red phone booth beside water and metal poles, with a granite bridge behind it
Lake Havasu's London Bridge was shipped from London and has been in use since 1971

Arizona has an official state neckwear

If you go to Arizona, you'll likely run into a lot of Western-inspired clothing. One of the most popular items in this clothing style has even become the official Arizona state neckwear.

The bola tie (also called the bolo tie) is traditionally a leather cord with metal attached to the ends. The bola tie is then fastened around the neck with a metal clip. You'll find them in most stores that sell clothing and souvenir items.

A black and orange reptile with half of its body on a rock in a desert
Some of the deserts in Arizona are home to the poisonous Gila monster

You might see Gila monsters in Arizona

Gila monsters might seem like they belong in a storybook, but they're real lizards you might find in the AZ desert. They like to hang out in rocky dugouts on the desert slopes.

While the Gila monster is venomous, you don't have to worry much. Sightings are pretty rare, especially if you're careful. They're also mostly found in the western and southern parts of the state.

Arizona has a London Bridge in Lake Havasu City

Did you know you can find a piece of London in Lake Havasu City? The bridge you'll find here was originally built in the 1830s to cross the River Thames in London.

It was decommissioned due to sinking too much into the ground around the river. However, it was purchased in the 1960s and refurbished to be used in Lake Havasu City. It's been in use here since 1971.

It snows in Arizona

While there are plenty of deserts in the state, you'll also find plenty of places in northern Arizona where you'll encounter snow. Much of the state is elevated, and its mountains are tall enough to allow for all four seasons to occur each year. Some places can even get an average of over 21 feet of annual snowfall. That's definitely enough snow to go skiing!

There are no dinosaur bones in the Grand Canyon

You might think that the Grand Canyon would be a great place for paleontologists to do digs for dinosaur bones. However, that's actually not true!

The Grand Canyon offers geologists and casual visitors a peek into the area's distant past, but you won't find any dinos here. That's due to two things.

The Grand Canyon's rock is much older than the dinosaurs, so they couldn't have been preserved here. Also, the canyon itself didn't form until after the dinosaurs went extinct, so none could have wandered down into it.

Weird Facts About Arizona

The right to remain silent began in Arizona in 1966

If you've ever watched a police show, you've likely heard the Miranda rights. The right to remain silent is arguably the most important part of those rights.

Did you know that the Miranda warning is the result of a Supreme Court ruling in 1966 over a case that took place in Arizona? After the Supreme Court ruling, it became part of police procedure that anyone being arrested or questioned needed to be told they weren't obligated to answer any questions without a lawyer.

Dark clouds with rain falling pass over a green forest and mountain ranges
A monsoon passing over Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Dust storms and monsoons both happen

The weather in much of Arizona is dry for most of the year. Dust storms typically form in arid regions. Yet, Arizona is also prone to an opposite climate phenomenon. Monsoons have been known to hit the state. Between June and September, the arid climate becomes more humid, making monsoons much more likely.

The unofficial state food is the chimichanga

Arizona has plenty of official state symbols, but it also has some unofficial ones. For example, what's commonly thought of as the "state food" has yet to become officially recognized.

The chimichanga, a dish invented at a Mexican restaurant in Arizona, is an integral part of American Southwestern cuisine. It is a deep-fried burrito and is served all over the state.

The country's oldest rodeos are here

Rodeos are a long-standing symbol of the West. They originated in Mexico as a way to show off skills among the ranch hands. Over time, the practice came to the US as well.

You can find rodeos all over the US, but the oldest are in AZ. The oldest continually run rodeo can be found in Prescott. It began on July 4th, 1888, and continues today.

You can't refuse to give someone water in Arizona

Staying hydrated is important when you live somewhere where temperatures can regularly be expected to top 100 degrees. In order to keep people safe, the state passed a special law to protect people from dehydration. In Arizona, it's illegal to deny someone water if they ask you for it. Of course, this only applies to people who have access to water.

Cool Facts About Arizona

Since Arizona is a state in the USA, obviously, English is the most spoken language here. It's also not surprising that Spanish is another common language since the area is so close to Mexico.

However, did you know that Arizona's third most spoken language is Navajo? That's primarily due to the large Navajo population that lives in and around the Navajo reservation.

There are around 4,000 mountain peaks in the state

When you think about mountain states in the US, you probably think about Colorado or Utah. However, neither of those states holds the record for the most mountain peaks.

With nearly 4000 mountain peaks, Arizona is one of the most mountainous states in the US. Of these mountains, 26 even reach an altitude of over 10,000 feet.

The lowest point in Arizona is 70 feet

You can't just mention the state's highest point in a list of Arizona interesting facts. You also need to see the difference with the state's lowest point. The lowest point in Arizona is in San Luis, Arizona, where the state borders Sonora. Here, the Colorado River reaches just 70 feet above sea level.

The state animal is the ringtail cat

While Arizona already has a state bird, they also have another state animal. The ringtail cat is the official state mammal. This animal is around the size of a raccoon and is closer to a raccoon than a cat.

They're native to southern Arizona and can be found in Saguaro National Park. However, they like to keep to themselves and don't come out if they sense people.

Arizona has the world's largest Kokopelli

One of the most interesting facts about Arizona is that it has the largest Kokopelli in the world. Kokopelli is a Native American god who was revered by multiple tribes in the North American southwest.

In Camp Verde, you can find a 32-foot tall statue depicting Kokopelli. The statue used to be in front of a Native American trading post. While the trading post has been closed for years, the sculpture remains.

Scary Facts About Arizona

Two old brick buildings on a street corner under a clear sky
Monte Vista Hotel is said to be one of the haunted places in Flagstaff, Arizona
A gray and brown rattlesnake on top of rocks
A Western Diamond-back Rattlesnake, a common variety in the Arizona desert

There are 13 rattlesnake species

Rattlesnakes are a scary species found virtually everywhere in the US. Not all rattlesnakes are the same, though. There are 36 rattlesnake species currently known to scientists.

Of those 36, 13 of them can be found somewhere in Arizona. You'll most often find the Mojave, black-tailed, and Western diamond-back varieties in the Arizona desert.

Scorpions are common

When you're in Arizona, you'll have to be careful of running into scorpions. To many people, these creatures are only common occurrences in stories or movies, but they're a real part of the Arizona fauna. In fact, more than 30 species of scorpions can be found in the state.

There are many types of scorpions in the world that differ in size, color, and danger. The most common ones in Arizona are the bark scorpion, the stripetail, and the giant hairy scorpion.

Skinwalkers are an urban legend

In recent years, shows covering paranormal and supernatural phenomena have focused on skinwalkers. These creatures come from Navajo legends, so they're commonly "seen" in Arizona.

Skinwalkers are supposed to be witches who can change into an animal. You won't be able to go far in Arizona without hearing someone talk about a sighting or without seeing something promoting the myth.

Luana's Canyon has spooky echoes

Arizona facts and history can be pretty spooky. Luana's Canyon is an example of that. The canyon also goes by the name "Slaughterhouse Canyon."

According to legend, a miner and his family once lived at the bottom of the canyon. When the miner didn't return with food one day, his family starved. The wife ended up murdering her children before starving to death, and now they haunt the area.

Flagstaff is supposedly haunted

Flagstaff is one of the most picturesque cities in the state. Its elevation allows it to have milder summer temperatures, and it regularly gets snow.

It's also supposedly one of the most haunted cities in Arizona. The downtown area has haunted walking tours. In fact, 10 Flagstaff locations apparently host ghosts.

In Conclusion

Did any of the facts above surprise you? How many were completely new to you, or have you heard of before? Hopefully, this list has helped open your eyes to what a fascinating place Arizona is. Maybe you're even on the cusp of planning a visit!

If you find yourself in the Copper State sometime soon, you'll now be able to impress your friends, family, and the locals with your new-found knowledge!

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Written by Gabrielle T

ggtraveler1213 FORMER WRITER Gabrielle loves all things travel and culture. She is originally from the USA, but she has lived in Italy for over a decade. She's always ready to pack her bags, grab her passport, and head out on an adventure!

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