Like Rascal Flatts once famously said, “Life is a highway. I wanna ride it all night long.” And what better place to ride off into the sunset than the Valley of the Sun? Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time resident, Arizona’s diverse scenery of desert landscapes and vibrant cities make it the ideal location for weekend road trips. The sunny weather and tasty southern comfort food are a pretty great bonus, too.
So strap in, update your GPS, and let’s plan the best Phoenix weekend road trip!
Are you considering a move to Phoenix, Arizona? Don’t miss our blog “Is it a Good Idea to Move to Phoenix?” where we discuss the pros and cons of living in Phoenix with local residents.
Cities to Visit Near Phoenix, Arizona
Within driving distance from Phoenix, you’ll find several exciting cities worth exploring. Our current favorite Phoenix road trip is Sedona. Its stunning landscape of soaring red rock formations and slashing canyons offer a peaceful retreat from city life. Renowned as a place of wellness, Sedona is the perfect spot to unplug for a weekend. If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, check out the Wilde Haven Hotel Spa Sedona (you won’t regret it!).
Flagstaff, located in the Coconino National Forest, is another firm favorite for a weekend getaway near Phoenix. The city boasts a charming downtown area and easy access to the San Francisco Peaks. Meanwhile, Tucson, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, is home to the beautiful Saguaro National Park. Here you can marvel at towering cacti and desert landscapes.
Honorable Mention: While Sedona, Flagstaff, and Tucson are our go-tos for weekend road trips near Phoenix, Jerome gets our honorable mention. This former mining town provides a glimpse into Arizona’s past with its historic buildings and quirky charm.
We recommend a trip to The Gold King Mine & Ghost Town, located a mile north of Jerome. The funky stop is home to dilapidated buildings, an old mine, and a large collection of vintage trucks and automobiles.
Arizona Desert Destinations
It’s no secret that Arizona boasts some of the most captivating desert landscapes, parks, and forests in the US. From the striking red sandstone buttes in Monument Valley to the crystal clear water of Canyon Lake, there’s an endless supply of desert destinations near Phoenix.
Does a nostalgic road trip through South West America sound fun to you? Gather some friends and travel some of the infamous Route 66. The “Mother Road” winds through charming towns and roadside attractions including Flagstaff and Sedona, and offers the ideal route for your next weekend road trip from Phoenix!
National Parks Near Phoenix, Arizona
Surrounded by some of the most popular US national parks, there are plenty of parks to choose from when planning a Phoenix road trip. Saguaro National Park, located just outside Tucson, is home to the nation’s largest cacti. Visitors to Saguaro can also enjoy scenic drives and hiking trails through desert landscapes.
Located in the neighboring state of California, the Joshua Tree National Park is another must-see. The park is best known for its distinct trees (and inspiring the popular U2 album Joshua Tree).
Of course, it wouldn’t be a complete list if we didn’t mention the unmissable Grand Canyon National Park. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views from various overlooks and hiking trails. Some of our favorite viewpoints include Mather Point and Hopi Point (South Rim) and Bright Angel Point (North Rim).
Gentle Giant is Your Moving Company in Phoenix, Arizona
As you embark on your journey of exploration in Arizona, let Gentle Giant be your Phoenix moving company of choice. With our expert moving services, we’ll ensure your move is smooth and stress-free, leaving you more time to plan your next Phoenix road trip. Check out our moving checklist for information on how to prepare and use our free move estimate tool to determine the cost of your relocation.