Six Unforgettable Spring Day Trips from Phoenix Worth the Drive

In my last piece Two Day Trips from Phoenix You Must Take This Spring I discussed two exciting nearby vacation ideas for Phoenix locals. The point of a day trip is that you get to explore a new area while still sleeping in your own bed at night.

Phoenix, Arizona is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of spring. With so many fantastic day trip destinations within a few hours’ drive, it’s easy to plan an exciting day out. Here are six must-do spring day trips from Phoenix that you can take this month!

Montezuma Castle National Monument is a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike.Photo byNPS Photo by Nicholas Goodman

1. Tortilla Flat

This historic town is located in the Superstition Mountains, just an hour away from downtown Phoenix. Tortilla Flat is a great place to take a scenic drive and explore the area’s rich history. The town has a population of just six people, and features a saloon, restaurant, and gift shop. Be sure to take a ride on the historic Apache Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

To get to Tortilla Flat from downtown Phoenix, take US-60 E for 40 miles, then turn right onto AZ-88 E.

2. Montezuma Castle National Monument:

Just an hour and a half from downtown Phoenix, this national monument is a fascinating look into the history of the Sinagua people. The monument features a five-story cliff dwelling that was built over 800 years ago. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the site and learn about the Sinagua’s way of life. Entrance fees to Montezuma Castle NP also allow access to Tuzigoot National Monuments.

To get to Montezuma Castle National Monument from downtown Phoenix, take I-17 N for 90 miles, then turn right onto Montezuma Castle Rd.

A view from Montezuma Castle National ParkPhoto byNPS Photo Nicholas Goodman

3. Jerome

This historic mining town is located in the Verde Valley, just two hours from downtown Phoenix. Jerome was once a booming mining town, but is now a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a tour of the town’s historic buildings and learn about its rich history. Be sure to stop by the Jerome Grand Hotel, which was once a hospital and is said to be haunted.

To get to Jerome from downtown Phoenix, take I-17 N for 100 miles, then turn right onto AZ-260 E.

4. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park:

This state park features one of the world’s largest natural travertine bridges and is located just two hours from downtown Phoenix. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about its unique geological features. The park also offers hiking trails and picnic areas.

To get to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park from downtown Phoenix, take AZ-87 N for 110 miles, then turn right onto AZ-260 E.

Inside Tonto Natural Bridge in the mountains of Arizona looking at the pond inside of the bridge. A great day trip from Phoenix!Photo byJason Yoder on Adobe Stock

5. Boyce Thompson Arboretum

This botanical garden is located in the Sonoran Desert, just an hour and a half from downtown Phoenix. The arboretum features over 3,000 species of desert plants, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the garden and learn about the unique flora of the Sonoran Desert.

To get to Boyce Thompson Arboretum from downtown Phoenix, take US-60 E for 50 miles, then turn left onto AZ-177 N.

6. Saguaro Lake

This beautiful lake is located just an hour from downtown Phoenix, and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can take a scenic boat tour of the lake and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and coyotes.

To get to Saguaro Lake from downtown Phoenix, take AZ-87 N for 20 miles, then turn right onto Bush Hwy.

Mountains behind Saguaro LakePhoto byjbrown on Adobe Stock

With so many amazing day trips to choose from, there’s no excuse not to get out and enjoy the beautiful Arizona springtime. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just a relaxing day on the water, these six must-do spring day trips from Phoenix are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

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