6 Places in Arizona I Wouldn’t Take My Worst Enemy

There are certain places I, without a doubt, will take friends and out-of-town guests whenever possible. Small towns like Payson and Pine, the red rocks of Sedona, and hiking trails within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve are just a few of my favorites, and I'm eager to share them with those I care about. And then there are those places I wouldn't take anyone, places that are overcrowded during certain times of the week or year, too touristy, or too expensive. While every attraction has its own draw and may be worth visiting at least once, these are the places I avoid visiting during the high tourist season.

1. Camelback Mountain

By far, the most popular place to hike in Arizona is Camelback Mountain. Sure, the views are impressive from the top, but people come from all over the world, completely underestimating how challenging the hike is with incredibly steep sections. I've seen people arrive at the mountain without backpacks, without water, and without proper footwear. Additionally, the mountain's main trail, Echo Canyon, is incredibly crowded, and it's often difficult to find parking unless you arrive very early in the morning. Many people are airlifted off the mountain each year, especially on hot days, due to dehydration. So, given the parking, crowds, and terrain, would I take my worst enemy here? Not unless it was a cool day and we arrived early enough for a parking spot.

If you decide to hike up Camelback Mountain, please wear hiking boots and carry a backpack with water, snacks, and other necessary supplies. You should also avoid hiking in the summer and time your hike for early morning, before it gets too hot and crowded during other times of the year.

2. The Thing? in Dragoon

Here's the thing about The Thing... you'll see numerous signs for it along your drive along the I-10, and believe me, your curiosity will be piqued. But was it worth seeing this oddity when I went? Maybe, but it's still a bit of a tourist trap, albeit interesting.

While The Thing is the star attraction at this roadside tourist stop and you must pay to find out what it is, there's more to it than that. It's a fun and convenient place to refuel, grab a bite to eat, and explore the museum's other fascinating exhibits.

3. Whiskey Row in Prescott

While I love walking around the historic streets of Prescott during the day, I prefer avoiding the famous area known as Whiskey Row at night. Why? As I've grown older, I avoid bar crowds and prefer to spend my evenings at a lovely, quiet restaurant, where I can enjoy a glass of wine with my dinner instead. Is Whiskey Row fun? It can be! But I'd rather see this historic part of town during the day.

4. Old Town Scottsdale ... on the Weekend

Ah, to be young again, and then maybe I would enjoy being in Old Town Scottsdale on a Friday or Saturday night. But because I am no longer in my 20s and probably won't be attending a bachelorette party here any time soon (if ever), I avoid Old Town like the plague at night on the weekends, and would never drag anyone there with me. However, it's a delightful place to be in the daytime!

If you find yourself in the Old Town area on a weekend night but would like to avoid crowds, I suggest visiting Cafe Monarch on 1st Ave. or ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho. Both have bars where you can sit, relax, and have a cocktail and appetizer without all the noise and craziness of other places in the area.

5. Rustler's Rooste

Sitting at the top of a hill in the Ahwatukee neighborhood of Phoenix, with panoramic views of the city, Rustler's Rooste is a famous Western-themed restaurant that has been open since 1971. This large restaurant attracts a steady stream of tourists, often arriving in tour buses. If you don't mind crowds, a loud and lively ambiance, and an expensive meal from a menu set at tourist prices, then you may enjoy this Arizona restaurant.

I have been here twice, around the time I first moved to Arizona, and that was years ago. I found it to be fun, but the restaurant was packed, and we had to wait a while for a table. If you haven't been yet, it's worth giving it a try at least once. But many other locally-owned restaurants won't have the crowds, if that's something you prefer.

6. Tombstone

Have you ever been to the Old West town of Tombstone in southern Arizona? I have, and aside from the historical elements, I found it to be a little too touristy. Sure, seeing a gunfight reenactment in the streets was fun, and we were able to see the O.K. Corral as well as the World's Largest Rose Tree. However, the next time I'm down this way, I think I will explore the old mining town of Bisbee instead.

What do you think? Would you take your friends and family to any of the places mentioned above? I happen to think that every place is worth visiting at least once, but the above are places I would avoid taking someone, especially during the high tourist season or certain times of the week or year. If you prefer lesser-known places to visit, take a look at our list of the best hidden gems in Arizona.