Best Day Trips From Scottsdale
From Scottsdale, Arizona
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Scottsdale, Arizona, is a gateway to a diverse range of day trip destinations that cater to various interests. From the breathtaking natural wonders of the Grand Canyon to the historic charm of Prescott, there's something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing day out, these day trips offer a mix of nature spots, historic towns, beaches, and attractions within driving distance. Embark on a journey to discover the best of what Arizona has to offer.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views, hiking, rafting, and scenic overlooks. The South Rim is the most accessible and offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. Don't miss the Grand Canyon Skywalk for a unique perspective of the canyon.
What to See & Do:
- βBreathtaking views of the Grand Canyon
- βHiking trails for all levels
- βGrand Canyon Skywalk
- βScenic overlooks and picnic areas
2. Sedona
Known for its vibrant red rock formations, Sedona offers a blend of natural beauty and spiritual experiences. Explore the numerous hiking trails, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, or indulge in a spa day. The town is also famous for its vortex sites, believed to be centers of spiritual energy.
What to See & Do:
- βRed rock formations and hiking trails
- βChapel of the Holy Cross
- βSpiritual vortex sites
- βSpa and wellness centers
3. Prescott
A historic city with Victorian homes, hiking trails, and Whiskey Row saloons. Prescott offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visit the Sharlot Hall Museum, explore the downtown area, or take a hike in the nearby Prescott National Forest.
What to See & Do:
- βHistoric Whiskey Row
- βSharlot Hall Museum
- βHiking trails in Prescott National Forest
- βDowntown shopping and dining
4. Flagstaff
A mountain town known for skiing, Route 66, and its proximity to national parks. Flagstaff offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing. Visit the Lowell Observatory, explore the historic downtown, or take a scenic drive along Route 66.
What to See & Do:
- βLowell Observatory
- βHistoric Route 66
- βOutdoor activities and national parks
- βDowntown shopping and dining
5. Lake Havasu City
A popular spot for boating and home to the transplanted London Bridge. Lake Havasu City offers a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, and jet-skiing. Explore the historic London Bridge, visit the English Village, or relax on the beach.
What to See & Do:
- βBoating and water activities
- βHistoric London Bridge
- βEnglish Village
- βBeaches and picnic areas
6. Tucson
Known for its desert landscapes and cultural attractions, Tucson offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visit the Saguaro National Park, explore the Tucson Museum of Art, or take a stroll through the historic downtown area.
What to See & Do:
- βSaguaro National Park
- βTucson Museum of Art
- βHistoric downtown area
- βDesert landscapes and hiking trails
7. Page
A gateway to some of Arizona's most stunning natural wonders, including Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. Page offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, and scenic drives.
What to See & Do:
- βGlen Canyon National Recreation Area
- βHorseshoe Bend
- βAntelope Canyon
- βScenic drives and hiking trails
8. Canyon De Chelly National Monument
Ancient cliff dwellings and dramatic canyon scenery, rich in Native American history. Canyon De Chelly offers a variety of hiking trails and scenic drives, allowing visitors to explore the canyon's natural and cultural heritage.
What to See & Do:
- βAncient cliff dwellings
- βDramatic canyon scenery
- βHiking trails and scenic drives
- βNative American history and culture
9. Winslow
A historic town known for its connection to Route 66 and the famous song 'Take It Easy' by the Eagles. Winslow offers a mix of historic sites, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Visit the Standin' on the Corner Park, explore the historic downtown area, or take a scenic drive along Route 66.
What to See & Do:
- βStandin' on the Corner Park
- βHistoric Route 66
- βHistoric downtown area
- βOutdoor activities and scenic drives
Available Tours:
10. Kingman
A historic town known for its connection to Route 66 and the Mohave Museum of History and Arts. Kingman offers a mix of historic sites, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Visit the Mohave Museum of History and Arts, explore the historic downtown area, or take a scenic drive along Route 66.
What to See & Do:
- βMohave Museum of History and Arts
- βHistoric Route 66
- βHistoric downtown area
- βOutdoor activities and scenic drives
11. Jerome
A historic mining town turned arts community, Jerome offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the Jerome State Historic Park, explore the town's art galleries and shops, or take a hike in the nearby Sedona Red Rock State Park.
What to See & Do:
- βJerome State Historic Park
- βArt galleries and shops
- βHiking trails in Sedona Red Rock State Park
- βHistoric mining town
12. Cottonwood
A charming town known for its wine country and outdoor activities. Cottonwood offers a variety of wineries, tasting rooms, and outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. Visit the Page Springs Cellars, explore the town's shops and restaurants, or take a scenic drive through the Verde Valley.
What to See & Do:
- βWine tasting and wineries
- βOutdoor activities and scenic drives
- βShops and restaurants
- βPage Springs Cellars
Ready to Explore?
Start planning your perfect day trip from Scottsdale
Looking for more travel inspiration? Explore all Scottsdale attractions or plan a custom itinerary