When it comes to planning a getaway, Phoenix, Arizona offers a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local searching for weekend escapes or a traveler planning a vacation, there are countless trip ideas to take around Phoenix that cater to every type of traveler. From breathtaking desert landscapes to vibrant city attractions, the surrounding areas of Phoenix are filled with destinations worth exploring.
This guide will cover everything you need to know to plan your trip — including the best places to stay, activities for families and couples, and handpicked tours that can transform your vacation into a memorable adventure.
Trip Ideas To Take Around Phoenix - All You Need To Know
Table of contents
- Trip Ideas To Take Around Phoenix - All You Need To Know
- Why Phoenix is the Perfect Hub for Exploring Arizona
- Best Hotels for Your Trip Around Phoenix
- Top Trip Ideas To Take Around Phoenix
- Family-Friendly Tours & Activities
- Recommended Driving Routes & Itineraries Around Phoenix
- Romantic Tours for Couples
- Extend Your Adventures Beyond Phoenix
- Trip Ideas To Take Around Phoenix: In Conclusion
- FAQs For Trip Ideas To Take Around Phoenix
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Why Phoenix is the Perfect Hub for Exploring Arizona
Phoenix is known for its year-round sunshine, iconic desert scenery, and cultural gems. But what makes the city even more exciting is its central location, which makes it easy to access incredible day trips and weekend getaways. With destinations like Sedona, Flagstaff, and the Grand Canyon just a short drive away, you’ll never run out of trip ideas to take around Phoenix.
Best Hotels for Your Trip Around Phoenix
Finding the right accommodation sets the tone for your entire trip. Here are some of the top hotels near Phoenix, complete with booking links:
| Hotel Name | Location | Best For | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyatt Regency Phoenix | Phoenix | Luxury & Couples | Book Here |
| The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort | Scottsdale | Families & Couples | Book Here |
| Hotel Valley Ho | Scottsdale | Retro & Stylish Stays | Book Here |
| JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa | North Phoenix | Families | Book Here |
| Sanctuary Camelback Mountain | Paradise Valley | Romantic Getaways | Book Here |
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Top Trip Ideas To Take Around Phoenix
1. Sedona: Red Rock Adventures
Just two hours north of Phoenix, Sedona is a paradise for hikers, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers. Explore Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, or book a jeep tour to experience the stunning red rock formations up close. Don’t miss the Chapel of the Holy Cross, perched dramatically in the red rocks, or enjoy an energy vortex tour for a unique experience.
2. Grand Canyon National Park
No list of trip ideas to take around Phoenix would be complete without the Grand Canyon. Only about 3.5 hours away, this natural wonder is perfect for day trips or overnight stays. You can hike the South Kaibab Trail, enjoy breathtaking views from Mather Point, or even book a helicopter tour for an unforgettable perspective of this world-famous landmark.
3. Scottsdale: Shopping, Art & Nightlife
Scottsdale is just 25 minutes from Phoenix and is perfect for those who love a mix of luxury and culture. Stroll through Old Town Scottsdale for boutique shopping, dine at award-winning restaurants, or visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. For nightlife, Scottsdale’s entertainment district offers rooftop bars and vibrant clubs.
4. Flagstaff: Cool Pines & Adventure
Located just over two hours away, Flagstaff offers a refreshing mountain escape from the desert heat. It’s home to Arizona Snowbowl for skiing and snowboarding in winter, and in summer you can enjoy scenic gondola rides and mountain biking. Plus, Flagstaff is a great base for exploring Walnut Canyon National Monument and Meteor Crater.
5. Tucson: Desert Culture & History
About a 2-hour drive south, Tucson blends history, culture, and desert beauty. Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, explore Mission San Xavier del Bac, or take a hike in Saguaro National Park to see the iconic giant cacti. Tucson also boasts a UNESCO designation for its food culture, making it a foodie’s paradise.
6. Jerome: Arizona’s Ghost Town
If you’re looking for unique trip ideas to take around Phoenix, Jerome is a fascinating destination. Once a booming mining town, it’s now known for its ghost tours, quirky shops, and art galleries. The Jerome State Historic Park gives you a glimpse into Arizona’s mining history.
7. Prescott: Lakes & Western Charm
Prescott, about 1.5 hours from Phoenix, is known for its charming historic downtown and outdoor adventures. Enjoy kayaking at Watson Lake, hiking in the surrounding Prescott National Forest, or walking down Whiskey Row, famous for its old-time saloons.
8. Payson & Mogollon Rim
For those who love the outdoors, Payson offers fishing, hiking, and breathtaking drives along the Mogollon Rim. Located about 90 minutes away, it’s a cool-weather retreat perfect for camping and nature escapes.
Family-Friendly Tours & Activities
Families will find plenty of trip ideas to take around Phoenix with activities everyone can enjoy:
- Phoenix Zoo & Desert Botanical Garden combo day
- OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale
- Hot air balloon rides over the Sonoran Desert
- Day trips to Sedona with kid-friendly hiking trails
- Things to do in San Francisco with kids if you’re planning a bigger West Coast adventure
Recommended Driving Routes & Itineraries Around Phoenix
1-Day Itinerary: Sedona Escape
- Morning: Depart Phoenix early, arrive in Sedona by 9 AM.
- Midday: Hike Bell Rock or Cathedral Rock.
- Afternoon: Lunch in Uptown Sedona, explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.
- Evening: Sunset jeep tour or scenic drive along Red Rock Scenic Byway.
- Return to Phoenix by night.
2-Day Itinerary: Grand Canyon Adventure
Day 1:
- Morning: Drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff (stop for lunch).
- Afternoon: Visit Walnut Canyon or Lowell Observatory.
- Evening: Stay overnight in Flagstaff.
Day 2:
- Morning: Depart early for the Grand Canyon (South Rim).
- Midday: Hike or enjoy viewpoints like Mather Point and Desert View.
- Afternoon: Optional helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view.
- Evening: Return to Phoenix.
Weekend Itinerary: Prescott & Jerome
Day 1:
- Morning: Drive to Prescott and kayak at Watson Lake.
- Afternoon: Explore historic Whiskey Row and Prescott Courthouse Plaza.
- Evening: Overnight stay in Prescott.
Day 2:
- Morning: Drive to Jerome, explore ghost tours and art galleries.
- Afternoon: Stop by a local winery in the Verde Valley.
- Evening: Return to Phoenix.
Extended Itinerary: Phoenix to Tucson & Beyond
- Day 1: Drive to Tucson, visit Mission San Xavier del Bac, and explore downtown.
- Day 2: Spend the day at Saguaro National Park and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
- Day 3: Head back to Phoenix with a scenic stop in Picacho Peak State Park.
Romantic Tours for Couples
Couples looking for a romantic getaway will love these options:
- Sunset hot air balloon ride
- Wine tasting in Verde Valley
- Spa retreat at a Scottsdale luxury resort
- Scenic drives through Sedona
- Explore more destinations for couples like Orlando travel deals or a charming New York itinerary for 5 days
Extend Your Adventures Beyond Phoenix
If Phoenix inspires your wanderlust, consider extending your trip to other cities with great experiences:
- San Diego helicopter tours for an aerial adventure
- 4 days in Chicago for a mix of culture and food
- Train travel across USA for a classic American journey
- Atlanta travel and tourism for Southern charm
- Family-friendly guide to 30A Florida for beach fun
- 1 week Chicago itinerary for extended city exploration
Looking for cheap flights or all-in-one travel deals? Check out:
Trip.com (Competitive flight & hotel bundles)
Expedia (Flight + hotel savings)
WayAway.io (Cashback on flights & travel bookings)
Trip Ideas To Take Around Phoenix: In Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best trip ideas to take around Phoenix, you’re spoiled for choice. From the red rocks of Sedona to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, Phoenix is the perfect starting point for unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, Arizona has experiences waiting just for you.