Arizona - The Grand Canyon State

Arizona

Arizona

Welcome to Arizona

Arizona is a southwestern state known for its dramatic landscapes, warm desert climate, and deep cultural history. Bordered by California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Mexico, it is a crossroads of natural beauty and diverse traditions. Arizona officially became the 48th state of the United States in 1912, completing the nation’s mainland expansion.

Land of Natural Wonders

The state is home to one of the most famous landmarks in the world—the Grand Canyon. Towering rock formations, colorful deserts, and mountain ranges add to Arizona’s unique geography. Beyond its deserts, northern Arizona holds pine forests and cooler climates, showing the state’s surprising variety.

Culture and Heritage

Arizona has a strong Native American presence, with 22 federally recognized tribes, including the Navajo Nation and Hopi people. Spanish, Mexican, and frontier influences also shape its culture, visible in its architecture, festivals, and food. Cities like Phoenix and Tucson balance modern growth with traditions that reflect this layered heritage.

Modern Arizona

Today, Arizona is known for technology, tourism, and agriculture, as well as being a popular destination for retirees seeking warm weather. Its blend of natural wonders and cultural depth makes it a fascinating state to explore and learn about.

Arizona Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Region Southwest
  1. Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
  2. The state has more Native American land than any other U.S. state, with 22 federally recognized tribes.
  3. Phoenix is the hottest major city in the United States, often topping 110°F in summer.
  4. Arizona is the only state where all four North American deserts are found: Sonoran, Mojave, Chihuahuan, and Great Basin.
  5. The famous London Bridge was relocated from England to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, in 1971.
  6. Copper mining is so significant that Arizona is nicknamed the "Copper State" as well.
  7. Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time (except for the Navajo Nation).
  8. It was the last of the contiguous 48 states admitted to the Union.
  9. The saguaro cactus, native to Arizona, can live for over 150 years and grow over 40 feet tall.
  10. Arizona has more golf courses per capita than almost any other state, thanks to its sunny climate.
Population ~7.4 million (2025 est.)
Area 113,990 sq mi (6th largest)
Statehood February 14, 1912 (48th state)
Capital City Phoenix
Largest City Phoenix
Abbreviation AZ
Nickname The Grand Canyon State
Geography Deserts, plateaus, mountains, Grand Canyon, Sonoran Desert
Bordering States California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico; also borders Mexico
Economy Aerospace, copper mining, tourism, agriculture, technology
State Tree Palo Verde
State Bird Cactus Wren

Our Content
Arizona Interactive Map

Interactive and Printable Arizona Maps and Map Activities

This section features numerous interactive and printable Arizona maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own Arizona map.

Colorado History

History of Arizona

Arizona became the 48th state of the United States in 1912, the last of the contiguous states to join the Union. Its history includes Native American cultures, Spanish exploration, and its role as part of Mexico before becoming U.S. territory after the Mexican-American War.
John Wesley Powell

Famous People from Arizona

Cochise, the respected Chiricahua Apache leader, is remembered for his strong resistance during the Apache Wars in Arizona. Explorer John Wesley Powell is famous for leading expeditions that mapped the Grand Canyon, bringing national attention to Arizona’s unique landscape.
Comprehension

Arizona Literacy and Comprehension Exercises

This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.
Arizona Symbols Coloring

Fun Arizona Printables and Coloring Activities

This section features fun and educational Arizona-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to Arizona' sign, and much more!
Collage America

Fun Arizona and United States Online Games

This section provides some really exciting online games such as Arizona or Not Arizona, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.