7 Day Trips from Phoenix You Can’t Miss

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Phoenix, Arizona, is a city that thrives on sunshine, saguaros, and the occasional existential crisis when you realize it’s 110°F in October.

But let’s be real – it is also the perfect launchpad for some of the most epic day trips in the Southwest.

Whether you’re a local looking to escape the urban sprawl or a visitor trying to maximize your time, these seven day trips are guaranteed to make you forget about your inbox (or at least distract you for a few hours).

1. Sedona: Red Rocks and Vibes That’ll Make You Question Your Life Choices

Distance from Phoenix: ~2 hours

Sedona is like that friend who’s way too spiritual for their own good but somehow still manages to be cool.

The red rock formations are jaw-dropping, and the energy vortexes? Well, even if you’re skeptical, you’ll leave feeling something.

What to Do:

• Hike Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock for Instagram-worthy views.
• Drive the scenic Red Rock Loop for a low-effort, high-reward experience.
• Stop by Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for overpriced but charming souvenirs.

Pro Tip: If you’re into crystals, Sedona’s shops will happily take your money. Just don’t blame me when you’re $200 poorer and holding a rock that “totally aligns your chakras.”

2. Grand Canyon: Because You Can’t Live in Arizona and Not See It

Distance from Phoenix: ~3.5 hours

Yes, it’s cliché. Yes, it’s crowded. But the Grand Canyon is one of those places that actually lives up to the hype. It’s like the Beyoncé of natural wonders—iconic, awe-inspiring, and impossible to ignore.

What to Do:

• Visit the South Rim (the most accessible part for a day trip).
• Walk along the Rim Trail for panoramic views without the death-defying hikes.
• Snap a selfie at Mather Point and pretend you’re not terrified of heights.

Pro Tip: Leave early. Like, really early. The drive is long, and you’ll want to maximize your time before the tour buses arrive.

3. Jerome: A Ghost Town That’s Surprisingly Alive

Distance from Phoenix: ~2 hours

Jerome is the kind of place where you half-expect a tumbleweed to roll by while a cowboy duel breaks out. Once a booming mining town, it’s now a quirky artist colony with a side of haunted history.

What to Do:

• Explore the Jerome State Historic Park for a crash course in mining history.
• Check out the local art galleries and wine-tasting rooms (yes, wine in a ghost town).
• Visit the Jerome Grand Hotel, which is allegedly haunted. Bring a Ouija board if you’re feeling brave.

Pro Tip: The roads are steep and winding, so if you’re prone to car sickness, maybe skip the second glass of wine.

4. Prescott: A Slice of the Old West with a Side of Hipster

Distance from Phoenix: ~1.5 hours

Prescott is like if a cowboy and a barista had a baby. It’s got historic saloons, a charming town square, and enough craft coffee shops to make you forget you’re in the desert.

What to Do:

• Stroll around Whiskey Row and pretend you’re in a Western movie.
• Visit Watson Lake for kayaking or hiking among the unique granite boulders.
• Grab a latte at one of the local cafes and feel superior to everyone back in Phoenix.

Pro Tip: If you’re there in the summer, Prescott’s cooler temps will feel like a miracle.

5. Tombstone: Where the Wild West Comes Alive (Sort Of)

Distance from Phoenix: ~3 hours

Tombstone is the town that time forgot—and then turned into a tourist attraction. It’s cheesy, it’s kitschy, and it’s 100% worth the drive.

What to Do:

• Watch a reenactment of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (spoiler: Wyatt Earp wins).
• Explore the historic district and try not to laugh at the actors in period costumes.
• Visit Boot Hill Cemetery, where the epitaphs are as dramatic as the town itself.

Pro Tip: Embrace the cheesiness. Tombstone is all about having fun, not taking yourself too seriously.

6. Flagstaff: A Mountain Escape That’s Not Just for Skiers

Distance from Phoenix: ~2.5 hours

Flagstaff is Phoenix’s cooler, more laid-back cousin. With its pine forests, crisp mountain air, and craft breweries, it’s the perfect antidote to desert burnout.

What to Do:

• Hike in the San Francisco Peaks or explore Walnut Canyon National Monument.
• Stroll through downtown Flagstaff for quirky shops and great food.
• Visit Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered (RIP, Pluto).

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, check the weather. Flagstaff gets snow, and you don’t want to be that person stuck on I-17 without chains.

7. Saguaro Lake: Desert Beauty Without the Crowds

Distance from Phoenix: ~45 minutes

Sometimes you just need a quick escape, and Saguaro Lake delivers. It’s close, it’s beautiful, and it’s way less crowded than other spots.

What to Do:

• Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake.
• Take a scenic boat tour if you’re feeling lazy (no judgment).
• Pack a picnic and enjoy the views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Pro Tip: Go early or late in the day to avoid the heat and catch the best light for photos.

FAQs

Q: Can I do these trips year-round?
A: Mostly, yes. But summer trips to Sedona or the Grand Canyon can be brutal due to the heat. Flagstaff is great in summer but snowy in winter. Plan accordingly.

Q: Are these trips kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Just bring snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

Q: Do I need a 4×4 for any of these?
A: Nope. All these destinations are accessible with a regular car.

Conclusion

Phoenix may be a desert metropolis, but its surroundings are anything but boring. From the spiritual vibes of Sedona to the Wild West antics of Tombstone, these day trips offer something for everyone. So pack your sunscreen, grab your water bottle, and hit the road. Because let’s face it—you’ve been staring at your phone long enough.

Now go explore. And if you see a vortex in Sedona, tell it I said hi.