Best Day Trips From Phoenix To Take This Summer

The US state of Arizona is hot, and so is its capital Phoenix. With desert all around, the sun feels scorching. Summers are blazing, making residents and tourists look for good spots to beat the heat. Phoenix is a metropolitan with pulsating nightclubs, luxurious spas, expansive golf courses, redefined cityscape, southwestern cultural influence, and exciting outdoor pursuits. It is a vibrant place to spend some time, but what makes it more appealing is the abundance of attractions to discover in the vicinity. 

Phoenix sits in a convenient location, from where big cities, natural hotspots, charming towns, and other attractions are easily accessible. Tourists can plan some day trips to experience what the area has to offer. While some popular places are about 3-4 hours away, there are several under 2-hour destinations for the perfect summer escape near Phoenix. So let us look at the 10 best day trips from Phoenix to take this summer.

Prescott

About an hour and a half drive from Phoenix will take visitors to Prescott's historical and lively town. The temperature is low by fewer degrees than in Phoenix, and the place is captivating with its traditional architecture, specialty boutiques, and buzzing art spaces. Visitors will also have the option to try canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, rock climbing, trekking, and mountain biking. The town is particularly known for its attractive avenue, full of classic bars and refurbished clubs, Whiskey Row. It provides an idyllic setting for bar tripping with karaoke, standups, and a lively atmosphere. Tourists can also spend their evenings strolling and soaking in the captivating beauty. 

Lake Pleasant Regional Park

The state's largest artificial lake is Lake Pleasant, just under an hour's drive from the city. It feels like a drop of relief in the expansive desert surroundings. Visitors can enjoy boating, paddleboarding, and even jet skiing in the lake and enjoy the cool waters. One can also lounge on the beach areas or go fishing. Biking and trekking routes are also available in the regional park for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can also have a picnic or set up a camp to make the best out of the trip. Weekdays are the best to visit without any crowds. Overall, it will be a thrilling encounter. 

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Those looking for cultural and historic immersion can drive for about an hour and a half to reach the Montezuma Castle National Monument. The attraction exhibits the lifestyle and residence of the eight-centuries old Arizonian natives, Singuas. Set in the Camp Verde range, one can admire the captivating main castle and other dwellings, along with soaking in the magnificent views of the area and flora and fauna. Monetzuma's Well is another attraction in the vicinity, known for the vegetation growing around. It will be a stepping-back-in-time experience for everyone. 

Cottonwood

The quaint town of Cottonwood is a hidden gem of Arizona. The presence of more than 24 vineyards offering artisan wines makes this place a must-visit when in Phoenix. The wineries provide tasting rooms, wine sampling, and special tours to familiarize visitors with the process. One can relish the stunning sights of Verde Valley while sipping on exquisite wines. The Dead Horse Ranch State Park, on the banks of Verde River, in the vicinity, is the place to check out for mountain biking, trekking, and picnics. Visitors would also like the charming atmosphere and the unique handcrafted items in the town. 

Saguaro National Park

The rare Saguaro Cactus is among the highlights of Arizona. Saguaro National Park is a Tuscan gem offering the best opportunities for hiking, horse riding, wildlife watching, and photography. The sunset is absolutely gorgeous from Saguaro National Park, making even the desert seem like a paradise. Visitors can also explore the region of Tuscan and its captivating architecture, cultural attractions, and beautiful landscapes. The region also houses a myriad of heritage and charming people, a bonus for those planning to visit the area. 

Salt River

Water bodies and summer escape go hand-in-hand. Salt River is the ultimate beat-the-heat destination near Phoenix, just under 40 minutes drive. The student population swarms the area during weekends, so weekdays are the best to visit. Tourists can enjoy various water pursuits like paddleboarding, kayaking, tubing, or floating in the cold waters. Wildlife spotting is another exciting activity with diverse fishes, bald eagles, and wild horses in the region. People can also simply lounge on the shores and admire the stunning landscape. 

Payson

The quaint mountain town of Payson provides a cool respite from the arid desert. It is a picturesque hour and a half drive from Phoenix and offers a pleasant environment and a variety of outdoor pursuits. The Tonto National Forest, encircling the town, provides a wealth of hiking and riding paths for outdoor lovers. The Mogollon Rim has a stunning background for exploration with its soaring cliffs and dense pine trees. The downtown is full of charming boutiques, art spaces, and inviting cafes, making it ideal for strolls and window shopping. Payson is the perfect place for a calm and replenishing day vacation.

Scottsdale

Scottsdale, just twenty minutes away, is a top choice for a day getaway from Phoenix owing to its magnificent resorts, thriving art culture, and retail stores. The flourishing town caters to various interests by combining contemporary conveniences with the allure of the desert. History enthusiasts can check out the charming Old Town Scottsdale boasting its breathtaking architecture and cultural institutions, while art lovers may browse the Scottsdale Arts District. The town offers several golfing venues and beautiful hiking paths, including the well-known Camelback Mountain. One of the biggest shopping centers is Fashion Square, with a wide selection of upscale stores and shops. Scottsdale offers a day excursion that mixes leisure, culture, and extravagance.

Canyon Lake

Just an hour from Phoenix, Canyon Lake is the ideal place to escape the city. Get away from the city and explore Canyon Lake, tucked away in the Tonto National Forest. The gorgeous lake offers a tranquil and idyllic day trip option. Renting a boat allows visitors to discover the lake and engage in activities like fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking while looking for quiet coves. The marina on the lake provides boat trips and supervised nature tours that offer a distinctive viewpoint on the local animals and geology. For those who would rather stay on dry land, there are a variety of hiking paths that run through the nearby Superstition Mountains and provide the lake's sweeping views. It is an excellent summer day adventure.

Tempe

Tempe, just 15 minutes away from the Phoenix metropolis, is a bustling city that provides various sights and things to do for a day trip. Tempe, where Arizona State University is located, boasts a vibrant cultural and artistic scene with a youthful spirit. Visitor options include the ASU Art Museum, showcasing modern art, and the ASU Gammage Theatre, hosting live performances. There are many chances for outdoor activity at Tempe Town Lake, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and cycling around the picturesque walkways encircling the lake. The city's main strip, Mill Avenue, is brimming with stores, eateries, and entertainment establishments, offering several dining and shopping opportunities.

Phoenix is stunning and teeming with things to do. Day trips would be the best way to explore not just the city but also the nearby attractions. So, if planning to visit Phoenix, ensure to check out the spots and have the best summer experience.