Below are 10 popular tourist attractions I recommend skipping. If your trip is limited, you will definitely want to concentrate on the above mentioned attractions.

1. The Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Arizona

While the Grand Canyon is definitely worthy of a visit, the popular Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, as a means of convenient transportation, is honestly not all that convenient, not to mention a bad value. First of all, the views are not all that impressive, consisting mainly of barren high desert. So if you are thinking that you are going to kick back and relax in the train, while enjoying the views from a comfy seat instead of the driver’s seat, you will be sorely dissapointed.

The majority of the scenery from Williams to the Grand Canyon looks like this - nothing too impressive!
The majority of the scenery from Williams to the Grand Canyon looks like this – nothing too impressive!

Second, pricing is quite high. The most economical car is $65 per adult, way more than you would pay in gas. Save your money for a nice lunch out. And, this package does not include any perks besides entry to the Grand Canyon ($35).

Third, your time at the canyon is severely limited when you take the railway. You will have roughly 3 hours, definitely not enough time to explore all the South Rim has to offer! Driving yourself is a much more relaxing experience as you will have no time limit. Thus, you can explore the natural wonder at your own leisure, leaving when you say so! On the other hand, if you love trains, the splurge may be worth it.

With views like this, you will want to take your time!
With views like this, you will want to take your time!

2. The Arboretum at Flagstaff

Mountain views at the Flagstaff Arboretum

Flagstaff’s Arboretum is a pretty big disappointment: a barren space which is not well-maintained, offering views no different than those that can be experienced around town on various hiking trails. Honestly, you can enjoy a free hike in the wilderness surrounding the city, all while taking in more picturesque views. Try a Snowbowl area hike like Aspen Nature Loop.

I can see how residents from areas like Phoenix and Tucson would be excited to see lots of pine trees. However, there are better places than the Arboretum that will cost you nothing. Sometimes you just need to know where to go! From easy options like the Aspen Nature Loop, Fort Tuthill, and Veit Springs to intense adventures like Humphrey’s Peak, you will have no shortage of gorgeous trails that take you through the beautiful diverse landscapes in the area. Observe the area’s diverse plant life in its’ natural setting, rather than at a planned arboretum.

Views at the Flagstaff Arboretum…

Pine and mountain views at the Flagstaff Arboretum

Versus views on a hiking trail…

The Aspen Nature Loop is great year-round, especially during the colorful fall months.
The Aspen Nature Loop is great year-round, especially during the colorful fall months.