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18 Sustainable Stays, Eats, Shops, and Experiences in Arizona
Written by Stephanie Stevens | April 11, 2021
Whether it’s a night under starry desert skies, a day traversing the mountains, or a moment taking in sweeping panoramic vistas, the many natural sites of Arizona are sure to take your breath away. This vibrant southwestern state, which borders five U.S. states and Mexico, is filled with numerous National Parks & monuments that allow for adventure, cultural immersion, and self exploration. The state is made up of a diverse population and is home to Navajo Nation, the largest of the Native American tribes in the United States. One of the state’s most sought after outdoor destinations is Grand Canyon National Park, which is a steep, red rock canyon that is carved by the Colorado River and extends for nearly 300 miles. Other of Arizona’s main outdoor attractions include Saguaro National Park, Monument Valley, and Antelope Canyon.
It’s not just Arizona’s natural wonders that attract visitors, however. The state’s many vibrant cities including Phoenix, Sedona, Tempe, and Flagstaff showcase the best of Southwestern culture with art galleries, historical landmarks, and an array of shops, eateries, stays, and experiences. With so much to explore, this guide will introduce you to places to play, stay, shop, and eat all across Arizona that are noted for their sustainable practices, support of local communities, and efforts to preserve cultural heritage. No matter whether you are looking for a tranquil night in the desert or a lively night out in the city, a visit to any of the destinations listed in this guide will show you the best of what this state in the wild, wild West has to offer.
Eco-Accommodations
Shash Dine EcoRetreat: A Glamping Hotel
Source: Shash Dine EcoRetreat
Price Range – $$$
Shash Dine EcoRetreat is an off-grid Glamping B&B on the Navajo nation that offers guests the chance to experience Navajo culture and the quiet magic of the great outdoors. Located just minutes from some of Arizona’s attractions, including Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend, this unique stay is situated on a working sheep ranch. There is a rich history and story to be told of the property, which hosts Baya and Paul, enjoy telling to those who come to stay at Shash Dine. During their stay, guests are given the chance to stay in a Hogan, which is a traditional Navajo Dwelling with an earthen floor that paints a picture of how the Navajo lived not too long ago. In fact, there are Hogans on the property that was built by Baya’s ancestors. With this retreat’s rich cultural history and serene natural surroundings, Shash Dine truly offers an immersive cultural and natural experience like no other.
Hotel Congress
Source: Hotel Congress
Price Range – $$
Originally built in 1919, Hotel Congress is a landmark Tucson hotel steeped in history and designed with classic Southwestern charm. This hotel, located in downtown Tucson, once hosted legendary criminal John Diligener and members of his entourage. Today, the hotel grants guests access to many amenities including many lively bars, a cafe, a dance club, and a hair salon. With its many green initiatives, Hotel Congress strives to further sustainability efforts in downtown Tucson and the hotel partners with leaders in sustainability to implement sustainable practices into all aspects of operations. This includes using solar-heated water, sourcing local produce, and the use of compostable food cups and containers. The hotel has received many awards for its efforts in sustainability.
Lodge on the Desert
Source: Lodge on the Desert
Price Range – $$$
Situated on five acres amongst the Santa Catalina Mountains, Lodge on the Desert is a true Tucson oasis. Originally built in the 1930s, the lodge was once a private family residence and was frequented by many Old-Western movie stars such as John Wayne and Paul Newman. Today, the hotel has many wonderful amenities including a heated saltwater pool, whirlpool spa, and an outstanding restaurant, Cielos, which serves Southwestern cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. When it comes to sustainability, Lodge on the Desert implements many environmentally friendly practices in all aspects of operations. In their restaurant, Lodge sources food from local growers, seafood from sustainable fisheries, and serves their wine on tap to eliminate the need for bottles, labels, and corks. In the guest rooms, the hotel offers water-saving options for linens and towels, utilizes eco-conscious cleaning products, and implements a recycling program for guest room magazines. Whether you are traveling to Tucson for business or for pleasure, Lodge on the Desert is where you’ll find relaxation while enjoying this Old Western city.
Elden Trails Bed & Breakfast
Source: Elden Trails Flagstaff B&B
Price Range – $$
Book this place – Receive a 5% discount when you call to schedule your next vacation: (928) 266-0230
At the foot of Mount Elden, just outside of scenic Flagstaff, Elden Trails Bed and Breakfast provides a sustainable place to rest and recharge while enjoying the amazing outdoor activities Arizona has to offer. The B&B hosts, Marnie and Steve, provide guests with a delicious breakfast that is made with organic, locally grown ingredients, including produce from the B&B’s micro-farm! As a retired MD and homeopath and a retired radio announcer/former pilot respectively, Marnie and Steve are passionate about hosting guests and treating them to nourishing wholesome meals. The property includes a four-season greenhouse, spectacular vistas of Mt. Elden, and miles of high desert hiking trails for guests to enjoy during their visit to Flagstaff.
Socially Responsible Eateries
The Pomegranate Cafe
Source: Vertical Diner
Price Range – $$
A cozy neighborhood spot in Phoenix, Pomegranate Cafe serves amazing vegan & vegetarian food made from organic and locally sourced ingredients. Started by mother-daughter duo Cassie and Marlene in 2010, the cafe was created as a space for the community to come together to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals that nourish the body and the planet. The menu features plenty of tasty options for brunch, lunch, dinner, drinks, and dessert, which are sure to satisfy any appetite. When it comes to coffee, Pomegranate Cafe uses locally roasted coffee from Peixoto Coffee Roasters and their handcrafted vegan milk made from cashews, oats, coconut & dates for lattes and mochas. The cafe also supports the local community through sourcing ingredients from small, local farmers with ecologically responsible practices and by donating a percentage of profits to local animal charities!
Green New American Restaurant
Source: Green New American
Price Range – $
With two locations in Phoenix and Tempe, Green New American Vegetarian, or “Green” for short, is a vegan restaurant serving delicious American comfort food. Using organic and non-GMO ingredients whenever possible, Green’s Chef Damon Brasch strives to create food that both vegans and meat-eaters alike will enjoy. The menu at Green was created as a celebration of vegetables and features small bites, burritos, sandwiches, and sweet treats. The restaurant has also been designated as a Phoenix Green Business Leader and an Arizona Green business for its sustainable practices.
Nami
Source: Nami
Price Range – $
In North Phoenix, you’ll find Nami – a vegan cafe serving coffee, breakfast, sweet treats, and Sunday brunch. The cafe gets its name from its infamous vegan ice cream treat, the tSoynami, which is a soy soft serve with all sorts of yummy homemade mix-ins, like cake, cookies, marshmallows, and chocolate syrup. About 75% of the ingredients at Nami are organic and everything is 100% vegan. The Nami baristas also make stellar coffee drinks with locally roasted beans. The cafe also strives to reduce its footprint by using biodegradable cups, boxes, and flatware when possible.
The Little One
Source: Friends of the Little One
Price Range – $
The Little One is a locally owned restaurant in Tucson serving healthy and affordable authentic Mexican cuisine to the Tucson community. Owners Sandra & Marcela are beloved members of the community and are a part of a family that has been in the restaurant industry in Tucson since the mid-80s. The restaurant’s menu is filled with many delicious and homemade items including tamales, Rellenos, and many vegan and vegetarian options. The restaurant also strives to give back to the Tucson community through its many philanthropic initiatives.
ChoclaTree
Source: ChoclaTree
Price Range – $$
ChocolaTree is an organic eatery and chocolate factory serving amazing fresh and healthy eats in Sedona. With a menu that is entirely organic and gluten-free, this restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a meal that will nourish both your body and the planet. Most of the food served at ChocolaTree is locally sourced, including from the restaurant’s onsite garden, and 95% of the menu is seasonal, depending on what’s available locally. Delicious and decadent chocolate treats made at the onsite chocolate factory come from cacao sourced from the restaurant’s own small cacao farms and are naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey. ChocolaTree has many sustainable practices, including 100% recycled packaging, a commitment to local sourcing, and the use of reusable shipping materials, which aid in the restaurant’s mission of taking care of ourselves, each other, and the planet.
Social Enterprise Shopping
Local Nomad
Source: Salt & Honey
Price Range – $$
With an amazing selection of handcrafted clothing, gifts, home goods, and more, Local Nomad in Phoenix is the place to discover unique finds. Located in a cozy, earthy setting, this clothing and gift boutique carries handcrafted goods made by artists and creatives from around the world, including products from local artists in Arizona. When curating their collection of products, Local Nomad puts a focus on finding items that are sustainable and ethically produced. The team at Local Nomad is also passionate about the slow fashion movement and has created their store as a way to support the creative endeavors of entrepreneurs. As a way to give back, the store proudly donates 1% of sales in Q1 to The Rooted Doula Collective, which is a community of Black doulas offering comprehensive support to Black pregnant people and families.
Phoenix General Store
Source: Phoenix General Store
Price Range – $$
The Phoenix General Store is a trendy boutique featuring a curated collection of local and internationally made clothing, gifts, and home products that are inspired by life in a desert city. Using Phoenix’s desert surroundings as inspiration, the store’s co-owners, Kenny Barrett and Joshua Hahn handpick items that are ethically created and sustainably sourced. The store has two Phoenix locations, one in Uptown and one in Downtown, and has been on the receiving end of many awards and accolades, including Best Clothing Store in 2018 and 2019.
Cero.
Source: Cero.
Price – $$
Cero. is a unique social enterprise shop located in Tucson. The shop fixates on low waste and ethically made products. Not only do they carry package-free home and body products, but they also support local artisans too – selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and accessories. From bamboo toothbrushes to shampoo & conditioner bars, Cero. is the perfect shop to assist you on your zero waste journey.
Ethical Experiences
Lowell Observatory
Source: Lowell Observatory
Price Range – $$
Located in Flagstaff, The Lowell Observatory is a non-profit research institution that is a pioneer in space exploration and research. The observatory was founded by Percival Lowell in 1894 and has been home to many discoveries through the years including the first detection of the expanding nature of the universe and the discovery of Pluto, among many others. Through their Native American Outreach Program, the center works with Native American communities to implement science and astronomy courses in school curriculums. This includes facilitating field trips and residential summer camps for Native American students and supplying classrooms with materials for activity and discussion. The center’s open deck observatory and several amazing guided tours give visitors the chance to experience solar observations and to marvel at the wonders of the night sky.
Arizona Raft Adventures
Source: Arizona Raft Adventures
Price Range – $$$
Arizona Raft Adventures is a family-owned tour company providing high-quality Colorado River rafting adventures in the Grand Canyon. Through facilitating rafting excursions, the company hopes to awaken a sense of wonder in all that participate in their trips. The company is owned and operated by longtime rafters Fred and Alexandra Thevenin who believe in both sharing and protecting the magic of the Grand Canyon. Arizona Raft Adventures also employs many sustainable practices during their trips including the use of reusable dishware, flatware, and cookware, the use of fuel-efficient propane stoves, minimizing food waste, and emphasizing the importance of environmentally friendly products. No matter your experience or expertise, a trip down the Colorado River with Arizona Raft Adventures is sure to be a trip like no other.
The Desert Botanical Garden
Source: @nichole1999
Price Range – $$
Spanning over 140 acres, The Desert Botanical Garden is a haven for exploring and learning about the many species of plants that call the desert home. For over 70 years, the Garden has been working to protect and preserve desert plants, animals, and habitats through showcasing the beauty of the desert and educating visitors on how to be responsible stewards of the natural world. With its many conservation initiatives, the Garden collaborates with academic, research, and conservation groups, striving to save desert plants and habitats from the growing threat of climate change. The Desert Botanical Garden offers many outdoor activities, such as garden trails, a butterfly pavilion, galleries, and a garden shop, making it the perfect place to explore and enjoy the beauty of the Arizona desert.
Grand Canyon National Park
Price Range – $$
In the desertous Arizona lies a mountainous park that’s many miles long to the point it’s split into two sections for visitors! This is the Grand Canyon National Park. As you head to the south rim of the park (north rim is only available between May 15th to October 15th annually), you’ll find many adventures awaiting you! Although there are current limitations due to COVID-19, don’t let that deter you from enjoying the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Take a hike around the various canyon trails, including the famous Trail of Time between the Yavapai Geology Museum and Hermits Rest. Along the trail, you’ll learn about the geological background of the Grand Canyon through historical signs you’ll see on your walk, or just taking in the various views and landscapes. If you’re lucky enough, you may even see a Californian condor! You can also receive delightful views of the desertous destination through the Grand Canyon Railway, water rafting on the Colorado River, or even by mule! When you’re done hiking, take your reusable bottle and fill up with some fresh, clean water from the Arizona park! Water not on your mind, you may also fill up on tea, coffee, or other healthy beverages for a small discount if you’re using a reusable bottle! Be sure to get a pass in advance, and enjoy an Arizonan adventure!
Petrified Forest National Park
Price Range – $$
Don’t let the name of this location perturb you, for there is nothing petrifying about the Petrified Forest National Park! Whether by foot, car, on bicycle, promenade through areas where fossils, erosion-formed mesas and buttes, and colorful, petrified wood reside. When you’re not exploring the park’s two geological formations, be on the lookout for the Painted Desert, the ancient remains of Pueblo Perco, and a preserved section of the iconic Route 66! Open every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving, hope the Petrified Forest National Park will be a pleasant experience!
Saguaro National Park
Source: @cvgellhorn
Price Range – $$
When we think of desert areas, cactuses often come to mind. All Arizona parks consist of them, but the Saguaro National Park is a special space for them, specifically the tree-like cactuses known as saguaros! Trek through the wilderness of the saguaro safe space, and spot various settings such as the cactus gardens, and the Tucson and Rincon mountain districts. If you’re tired of walking, relax around the Gates Pass, and hopefully you’ll get an amazing view of the sunset. Though strolling at the Saguaro National Park is surely a moment you do not want to miss, you must be careful: there are many carnivorous animals you may encounter on your hike! But don’t let that prick your stride, for seeking the Saguaro National Park scenery in the end is well-worth it!
meet the author
Stephanie Stevens
Stephanie is a writer and photographer passionate about sustainable living, mindfulness, and exploring the outdoors. She loves microadventures but her favorite part about traveling abroad is immersing herself in other cultures. When she’s not writing, you can find her drinking coffee, playing soccer, or backpacking.
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