Venture Farther On The Best Day Trips From Scottsdale, AZ
Put the top down on the convertible, hit the open road and cruise through Arizona's beautiful desert scenery to these exciting nearby day trip destinations. Visit authentic Wild West ghost towns and mysterious limestone caverns. Practice yoga in a New Age hotspot. Ride a horse in the foothills and drive to one of the greatest Wonders of the World. From funky college towns to an eco-utopia, embark on an easy day trip journey and discover fun things to do near Scottsdale.
Sedona
As an epicenter of New Age healing, wellness and spirituality, Sedona has been said to be a life-changing destination for many visitors. Enigmatic energy vortexes dot the red rock landscape of this high-desert getaway, but if that's not your thing there's plenty more to see and do. Enjoy exquisite dining, wineries and shopping, plus captivating outdoor adventure trails with panoramic views of the iconic red rocks, which have brought Sedona to the top spot of USA Weekend's Most Beautiful Places in America list.
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Cave Creek & Carefree
Discover a wilder pace of life in these genuine Western towns, which are nestled high in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, less than 30 minutes from the resort. Go horseback riding and have a bowl of chili while watching the rodeo at Buffalo Chip Saloon. Buy some boots and learn how to line dance to live country music. Explore artist's workshops and galleries.
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Grand Canyon
The biggest. The best. The bucket list. No matter how many pictures you've seen of this giant chasm in the earth, nothing can compare to taking in its vast natural wonder. Did you know the Grand Canyon National Park is 100 years old? Celebrate the famous park's centennial anniversary with a visit just three hours from Scottsdale. We mean it when we say everyone should see the Grand Canyon at least once in their lifetime.
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Kartchner Caverns
Be a spelunker for a day at this geological wonder and state park. Its mysterious limestone cave system runs for 24 miles underground and includes the world's largest stalactite formation. Guided tours give you an understanding of the cave's unique history and ecosystem.
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Flagstaff
Surrounded by a ponderosa pine forest and blessed with a mountain climate at an elevation of 7,000 ft., this friendly college town is known for craft beer, hiking, and winter skiing and snowboarding at Arizona Snowbowl. You'll also find a pedestrian-friendly downtown area with historic architecture and a laid-back vibe. Bonus: The famous Route 66 runs directly through Flagstaff—a road tripper's dream!
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Arcosanti
Visit a utopian urban laboratory and desert village that's the brainchild of the Italian-American architect Paolo Soleri. Fusing architecture and ecology, the experimental, eco-conscious community is home to 80 residents and Soleri's instantly recognizable bronze-casted wind-bells. Located just an hour's drive from the resort, visitors are encouraged to schedule guided tours to learn more about the philosophy, history and ongoing education of Arcosanti.
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Goldfield Ghost Town
Step back in time to the 1890s at this reconstructed Old West town, a hilltop enclave with gold mine tours and historic buildings. Mosey down the boardwalks and watch out for gunfights in the street. Wet your whistle at a saloon and tour the museum.
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Queen Creek Olive Mill
Taste fresh-pressed olive oils that are produced right on-site at this family-owned olive farm and mill, which is home to 7,000 olive trees. Take a tour to learn how high-quality Arizona olive oil is pressed. There's also a gourmet market, restaurant, and in-house coffee roastery. A local favorite, let's chill at the mill!
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