Best Day Trips from Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona, offers an array of captivating day trip options for those looking to explore beyond the city limits. From stunning natural landscapes to charming small towns, there's something for everyone within a few hours' drive.

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One of the most popular day trips from Phoenix is Sedona, known for its vibrant red rock formations and spiritual energy. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, including hiking, mountain biking, and off-road jeep tours. Another fantastic destination is the Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers breathtaking views and numerous trails for all fitness levels. For a taste of the Old West, head to Tombstone, where you can witness reenactments of historic gunfights and explore museums dedicated to the town's storied past. For those interested in wine, the Verde Valley Wine Trail offers a delightful escape with its variety of wineries and tasting rooms. These destinations, along with many others, make for unforgettable day trips, showcasing the diverse beauty and cultural richness that Arizona has to offer.

  • Grand Canyon National Park

    Grand Canyon National Park - Vast, breathtaking canyon with diverse ecosystems and rich history.

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  • Sedona

    Sedona - Red rock landscapes, spiritual vortexes, artistic community.

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  • Flagstaff

    Flagstaff - Flagstaff: Mountain town, outdoor activities, astrophysical observatory, Route 66.

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Best Day Trips from Phoenix

1.

Grand Canyon National Park

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Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its immense size and intricate, colorful landscape. Spanning 277 miles of the Colorado River, the canyon reveals millions of years of geological history through its layered rock formations. Visitors are captivated by its vast vistas, dramatic cliffs, and the interplay of light and shadow that changes throughout the day. Popular activities include hiking along the rim and into the canyon, river rafting, and enjoying scenic viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. The park also offers diverse wildlife and rich cultural history, including sites significant to Native American tribes. Grand Canyon National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Hotels

  • El Tovar Hotel
  • Bright Angel Lodge
  • Yavapai Lodge
  • Maswik Lodge
  • Thunderbird Lodge
  • Kachina Lodge

Dining

  • El Tovar Dining Room
  • Bright Angel Restaurant
  • Yavapai Tavern
  • Maswik Food Court
  • Canyon Coffee House
Things to do

2.

Sedona

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Nestled in the heart of Arizona, Sedona is a breathtaking destination renowned for its stunning red rock formations and vibrant arts scene. This picturesque town is surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs that glow in shades of orange and red, especially during sunrise and sunset. Sedona is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, including the famous Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. The town is also known for its spiritual vortex sites, attracting those seeking wellness and meditation. With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual significance, Sedona provides an enchanting escape for adventurers, artists, and seekers of tranquility alike.

Hotels

  • Enchantment Resort
  • Amara Resort and Spa
  • L'Auberge de Sedona
  • Sedona Rouge Hotel and Spa
  • Sky Ranch Lodge
  • The Orchards Inn of Sedona
  • Adobe Grand Villas
  • Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
  • Arroyo Pinion Hotel
  • Best Western Plus Arroyo Roble Hotel & Creekside Villas

Dining

  • Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
  • Elote Cafe
  • The Hudson
  • Creekside American Bistro
  • Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano
  • The Golden Goose American Grill
  • Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits
  • Cress on Oak Creek
Things to do

3.

Flagstaff

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Flagstaff, Arizona, is a charming city nestled in the Coconino National Forest, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Set at an elevation of about 7,000 feet, it offers a cool respite from the desert heat. Visitors can explore the Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, or embark on scenic hikes in the San Francisco Peaks, the highest mountain range in Arizona. The historic downtown area boasts a vibrant arts scene, unique shops, and cozy eateries. Flagstaff also serves as a gateway to the Grand Canyon, making it an ideal base for day trips. With its rich Native American history and diverse landscapes, Flagstaff promises a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Hotels

  • Little America Hotel Flagstaff
  • Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff
  • Hilton Garden Inn Flagstaff
  • Courtyard by Marriott Flagstaff
  • Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

Dining

  • Tinderbox Kitchen
  • Shift Kitchen & Bar
  • Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar
  • Josephine's Modern American Bistro
  • The Cottage
  • Pizzicletta
  • Delhi Palace
  • Fat Olives
  • Lumberyard Brewing Company
  • Diablo Burger
Things to do

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