Discover Hidden Gems: Top Day Trips from Phoenix You Can’t Miss

There are so many fun day trips from Phoenix. Below are some of our favorites places in Arizona you can easily drive to and return to Phoenix in a day.

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Top Day Trips from Phoenix

For day trips we tried to keep this list to places you can reach in 2.5 hours or less from Phoenix. We find this distance to be the ideal drive time for a day trip. If you’re looking for a weekend trip we have another post for that.

Clarkdale & Cottonwood

In about 2 hours and just over 100 miles from Phoenix you can visit the towns of Clarkdale and Cottonwood. The towns are easy to get to as they are about 20 miles from Interstate 17. The best time of year to visit is Spring and Fall. Both Clarkdale and Cottonwood are part of the part of the Verde Valley Wine Trail, known for its excellent wineries.

Hop aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad for a scenic journey through the beautiful wilderness of the Verde Valley.

This historic train ride offers unparalleled views of red rock formations, lush greenery, and wildlife. It’s a relaxing way to soak in the area’s natural beauty and if you’re lucky you will even see some eagles. See ancient pueblos.

Find out the Best Things to Do in Clarkdale & Cottonwood.

Camp Verde

Take a road trip to Camp Verde. Just 1.5 hours from Phoenix (90 miles) to see. Camp Verde is right off the Interstate 17 making it an easy drive. The best time to visit is Spring and Fall.

Lion at Out of Africa Wildlife Park Arizona

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is about two and half hours from Phoenix (140 miles). The city is conveniently just off Interstate 17, so it is an easy drive from Phoenix. It is an ideal day trip to cool off during the hot summer months, to see fall colors or to participate in winter sports. Nestled at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, it boasts stunning landscapes and outdoor activities year-round, from hiking and skiing to stargazing at the Lowell Observatory.

The charming downtown area features unique shops, art galleries, and delicious local eateries, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Additionally, nearby attractions like Walnut Canyon National Monument and the Historic Route 66 add to the adventure. With its cooler climate and vibrant atmosphere, Flagstaff provides a perfect contrast to the desert heat of Phoenix, making it a must-visit destination.

Find out some of the Best Things to Do in Flagstaff.

Jerome

Just over two hours from Phoenix (110 miles) this cool old mining town is on top of Cleopatra Hill.

Find out the Best Things to Do in Jerome, Arizona.

Payson

Just an hour and a half from Phoenix (90 miles) and you can be in the woods. The ideal time to visit is in the summer- cool off from the hot summer temps. Fall

Find out the Best Things to Do in Payson.