The Top Arizona Day trips
Discover Arizona Day Trips: 10 Must Do Trips
Arizona, with its stunning landscapes and rich history, offers an abundance of opportunities for unforgettable day trips. Whether you're a local looking to explore more of your home state or a visitor seeking to make the most of your time, these top-rated destinations promise adventure, beauty, and a taste of the unique culture that defines Arizona.
.jpeg)
The Grand Canyon: Nature’s Majestic Marvel
No list of Arizona day trips would be complete without mentioning the Grand Canyon. One of the world’s natural wonders, this awe-inspiring destination is just a few hours' drive from Phoenix. As you approach the canyon, the landscape begins to transform, hinting at the grandeur that lies ahead. The South Rim, open year-round, is particularly popular for day trips. Here, you can take in breathtaking views from numerous lookout points, each offering a unique perspective on the canyon’s immense scale.
Start your visit at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, where you can pick up maps, watch informative films, and learn about the park's history and geology. From there, explore the scenic Rim Trail, which offers easy walking paths with stunning vistas. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Bright Angel Trail provides a more challenging hike into the canyon. After a day of exploration, grab a bite at one of the rim-side restaurants and watch the sun set over the canyon, casting its deep shadows and vibrant colors.
Sedona: A Red Rock Wonderland
Sedona, known for its striking red rock formations and vibrant arts scene, is a perfect day trip destination. Just a two-hour drive from Phoenix, Sedona captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and spiritual energy. Upon arrival, head to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a stunning architectural marvel built into the red rocks. The chapel offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Sedona's numerous hiking trails are a must. The Cathedral Rock Trail is a popular choice, offering a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views at the top. Alternatively, the Bell Rock Pathway provides an easier trek with equally impressive scenery. After a morning of hiking, stroll through the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, where you can browse local art, jewelry, and unique gifts. Finish your day with a visit to one of Sedona’s renowned vortex sites, said to emanate powerful energy, perfect for meditation and rejuvenation.
Montezuma Castle: Ancient Cliff Dwellings
Step back in time with a visit to Montezuma Castle, an ancient cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago. Located about an hour and a half north of Phoenix, this well-preserved site offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of its early inhabitants. The five-story structure, nestled in a limestone cliff, is one of the best-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings in North America.
Begin your tour at the visitor center, which provides detailed information about the history and culture of the Sinagua people. Then, take a short walk along the paved trail to view the impressive cliff dwelling. As you marvel at the ancient architecture, interpretive signs provide insights into the daily lives, agricultural practices, and community structure of the Sinagua. After exploring Montezuma Castle, consider a visit to nearby Montezuma Well, a natural limestone sinkhole that served as a vital water source for the Sinagua. The serene environment and rich history make this an enriching and contemplative day trip.
Jerome: Arizona’s Most Vertical Town
Perched on Cleopatra Hill, Jerome is a former mining town turned vibrant artist community, just two hours from Phoenix. Known as "the largest ghost town in America," Jerome’s narrow streets are lined with historic buildings, art galleries, and eclectic shops. Start your visit at the Jerome State Historic Park, which offers a comprehensive overview of the town’s mining history and spectacular views of the Verde Valley.
Wander through the town’s numerous art galleries, where local artists showcase a variety of works, from paintings to sculptures. Don’t miss the Jerome Historical Society’s Mine Museum, which provides an in-depth look at the town’s mining past with fascinating exhibits and artifacts. For a taste of local flavor, stop by the Jerome Grand Hotel, an erstwhile hospital reputed to be haunted. The hotel’s Asylum Restaurant offers delicious meals with a side of spooky history. Jerome’s unique blend of history, art, and panoramic views makes it an unforgettable day trip.
Antelope Canyon: A Photographer’s Dream
Antelope Canyon, located near Page, Arizona, is renowned for its surreal, otherworldly beauty. This slot canyon, carved by centuries of water erosion, features narrow passageways and stunning light beams that filter through the canyon’s undulating walls. A five-hour drive from Phoenix, Antelope Canyon is a bit further afield but well worth the journey.
To visit Antelope Canyon, you must join a guided tour, as the canyon is located on Navajo land. Tours typically begin with a short ride to the canyon entrance, followed by a guided walk through the narrow passageways. As you navigate the canyon, your guide will point out the best spots for photography and share stories about the canyon’s history and cultural significance. The play of light and shadow on the sandstone walls creates a mesmerizing effect, making this a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Tucson: A Desert Oasis
Tucson, just a two-hour drive from Phoenix, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Begin your day with a visit to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combination of zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum. The museum’s extensive exhibits showcase the diverse flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert, providing a fascinating and educational experience.
Next, explore the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac, a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. The mission, often referred to as the "White Dove of the Desert," features beautiful frescoes, intricate carvings, and a serene courtyard. After touring the mission, head downtown to the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson, a reconstructed 18th-century fort that offers a glimpse into Tucson’s early history.
For lunch, sample Tucson’s renowned culinary scene, which has earned the city a UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation. From traditional Mexican fare to innovative Southwestern cuisine, Tucson’s restaurants offer a feast for the senses. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Barrio Viejo neighborhood, known for its colorful adobe homes and vibrant street art. Tucson’s rich cultural heritage and stunning desert landscapes make it a perfect day trip destination.
Kartchner Caverns: Underground Marvels
Kartchner Caverns, located in the Whetstone Mountains near Benson, Arizona, is a remarkable underground wonder. Discovered in 1974 but kept secret for over a decade to protect its pristine condition, the caverns were opened to the public in 1999. Today, they offer a fascinating and educational experience for visitors.
Begin your visit at the Kartchner Caverns State Park visitor center, where you can learn about the history, geology, and conservation efforts of the caverns. The center features interactive exhibits and a theater showing an introductory film. From there, join a guided tour to explore the caverns' stunning formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate soda straw structures. The tours are meticulously designed to protect the delicate environment, ensuring that future generations can enjoy this natural wonder.
After exploring the caverns, take advantage of the park’s above-ground amenities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a discovery center for children. Kartchner Caverns offers a unique and awe-inspiring day trip that combines natural beauty with a sense of adventure.
Prescott: A Step Back in Time
Prescott, Arizona’s former territorial capital, offers a charming and historic day trip destination just an hour and a half from Phoenix. Known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant downtown, Prescott provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Start your visit with a stroll around Courthouse Plaza, the heart of downtown Prescott. The historic Yavapai County Courthouse, surrounded by a lush green lawn and shaded by towering trees, is a focal point of the plaza. The surrounding streets are lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and antique stores, perfect for leisurely browsing.
For a taste of the Old West, visit Whiskey Row, a historic street once notorious for its saloons and gambling halls. Today, Whiskey Row retains its wild west charm with a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops. Don’t miss the Palace Restaurant and Saloon, Arizona’s oldest frontier saloon, where you can enjoy a meal in an authentically restored setting.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Prescott’s numerous parks and hiking trails. The Granite Dells, with its unique rock formations and scenic lakes, offers excellent hiking, kayaking, and photography opportunities. Thumb Butte, a prominent landmark, provides a moderately challenging hike with panoramic views of the surrounding area. Prescott’s combination of historic charm and natural beauty makes it an ideal day trip destination.
Payson: Gateway to the Mogollon Rim
Payson, known as the "Heart of Arizona," is a picturesque town located about an hour and a half northeast of Phoenix. Surrounded by the Tonto National Forest and nestled at the base of the Mogollon Rim, Payson offers a cool respite from the desert heat and a gateway to stunning natural landscapes.
Begin your day with a visit to the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, home to the world’s largest natural travertine bridge. The park offers several hiking trails that provide views of the bridge from different angles, as well as a trail that leads to the base of the bridge. The sight of the massive stone arch, formed over thousands of years by the erosive power of Pine Creek, is truly awe-inspiring.
Next, explore the scenic beauty of the Mogollon Rim, a rugged escarpment that stretches across central Arizona. The Rim offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The Rim Road (Forest Road 300) provides breathtaking views and access to several scenic overlooks.
For a taste of local culture, visit the Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin in Payson. The museum offers exhibits on the area’s history, including displays on the early settlers, the local Native American tribes, and the legendary author Zane Grey, who wrote many of his novels in a cabin near Payson. Payson’s blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip.
Tombstone: The Town Too Tough to Die
Step into the Wild West with a visit to Tombstone, a historic town known for its colorful past and iconic gunfights. Located about three hours southeast of Phoenix, Tombstone offers a unique glimpse into the rough-and-tumble days of the American frontier.
Start your visit at the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, which provides a comprehensive overview of the town’s history. The museum features exhibits on the lawmen, outlaws, and everyday citizens who shaped Tombstone’s development. The courthouse itself is a beautifully preserved example of 19th-century architecture.
Next, stroll down Allen Street, Tombstone’s historic main drag. Here, you can visit the OK Corral, site of the famous 1881 gunfight between the Earp brothers and the Clanton-McLaury gang. The OK Corral offers daily reenactments of the gunfight, complete with costumed actors and plenty of Wild West flair.
Don’t miss a visit to the Bird Cage Theatre, a notorious saloon and brothel that operated 24/7 during Tombstone’s boom years. The theatre has been preserved as a museum, with original furnishings, photographs, and artifacts that provide a fascinating look at Tombstone’s rowdy past.
For a taste of the town’s more macabre history, visit Boothill Graveyard, where many of Tombstone’s famous (and infamous) residents are buried. The epitaphs on the gravestones provide a glimpse into the often violent and short lives of Tombstone’s early inhabitants.
After a day of exploring, relax with a meal at one of Tombstone’s historic restaurants, such as Big Nose Kate’s Saloon, named after a colorful character from Tombstone’s past. Tombstone’s unique blend of history, legend, and Wild West charm makes it a must-visit destination for any Arizona day trip.
Amazing Arizona Day Trips
Arizona's diverse landscapes and rich history offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. From the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Grand Canyon to the artistic charm of Sedona, the ancient dwellings at Montezuma Castle, and the Wild West allure of Tombstone, each day trip provides a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're hiking through the stunning red rocks, exploring underground caverns, or immersing yourself in the state's vibrant cultural heritage, these top-rated destinations showcase the very best of what Arizona has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the beauty and excitement of Arizona's incredible day trips.
