Weekend Trips from Phoenix: 10 Best Getaways

Phoenix, Arizona is something special. From the vibrant food scene, to the plethera of Saguaro cacti, to the rugged mountains, and to the city- it has something to offer for everyone. It’s also close in proximity to many other wonderful places in the state. Within an hour, you can drive from a sea of Saguaro cactus, to the most dense forest of Ponderosa Pines in the entire United States. If you live here, you know sometimes it’s fun to get out of town (especially when its over 100 degrees). You may also be thinking about visiting Phoenix, and wanting to see as much of Arizona as you can during your trip. Either way, this post is for you! Let’s go over the best weekend trips from Phoenix.

***updated 3/2026

Best Weekend Trips from Phoenix (Quick Guide)

If you’re short on time or just want a quick overview, here are the best weekend trips from Phoenix based on drive time, vibe, and what each destination is known for. Whether you’re looking for red rock hikes, cooler mountain air, or a relaxing small-town escape, there’s something within just a few hours of the city.

Adventurous Weekend Trips from Phoenix

If you’re craving a weekend filled with hiking, scenic drives, and unforgettable landscapes, there are plenty of adventurous weekend trips from Phoenix just a few hours away. From red rock trails in Sedona to alpine forests in Flagstaff and dramatic desert views near Page, these destinations are perfect for getting outside and exploring Arizona’s diverse terrain.

Whether you’re planning a hiking-focused trip, chasing cooler temperatures in the summer, or looking for iconic bucket-list views, these are some of the best outdoor weekend getaways from Phoenix.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is one of the most popular weekend trips from Phoenix—and for good reason. Just about two hours north of the city, you’ll find some of Arizona’s most iconic red rock landscapes, along with endless opportunities for hiking, jeep tours, and scenic viewpoints.

Spend your weekend exploring trails like Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Bell Rock, or take in sunset views from Airport Mesa. Sedona is also known for its vortex sites, making it a unique mix of adventure and relaxation.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2 hours

My Recommendations:

• Stay: Amara Resort, Arabella Hotel Sedona
• Hikes: Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Soldier Pass
• Eat: Wildflower Bakery, Oak Creek Brewery
• Do: Jeep tour, sunset at Airport Mesa

Flagstaff, Arizona

If you’re looking to escape the Phoenix heat, Flagstaff is one of the best adventurous weekend getaways. Sitting at 7,000 feet, this mountain town offers cooler temperatures, pine forests, and a completely different landscape from the desert.

In the summer, hike through aspen groves on the Aspen Nature Loop or explore trails around Mount Elden. In the winter, Flagstaff transforms into a snowy playground with skiing and snowboarding at Arizona Snowbowl.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2–2.5 hours

My Recommendations:

• • Stay: Little America Hotel, High Country Motor Lodge
  • Hikes: Aspen Nature Loop (fall), Fatman’s Loop, Mount Elden Lookout Trail, Sycamore Falls (pictured)
  • Eat & Drink: Sosta, Tourist Home Cafe, Dark Sky Brewing Co.
  • Do: Walk downtown Flagstaff, visit Lowell Observatory, ski or take the gondola at Arizona Snowbowl

The Grand Canyon

No list of weekend trips from Phoenix would be complete without the Grand Canyon. One of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, the South Rim is just a few hours away and makes for an unforgettable weekend filled with sweeping views, scenic overlooks, and epic hiking opportunities.

Spend your time walking along the Rim Trail, stopping at viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Point, or catching sunrise and sunset over the canyon for some of the best views in Arizona. If you’re up for more adventure, hiking below the rim offers a completely different perspective—but be sure to plan ahead, especially in warmer months.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~3.5 hours

My Recommendations:

• • Stay: Read My Post: Where To Stay Near the Grand Canyon
  • Hikes: Bright Angel Trail (start early), South Kaibab Trail for views
  • Eat: Arizona Steakhouse, El Tovar Dining Room
  • Do: Walk the Rim Trail, sunrise at Mather Point, sunset at Yavapai Point

Prescott, Arizona

Prescott is one of the best weekend trips from Phoenix if you’re looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and a charming downtown scene. Surrounded by forests, lakes, and granite boulders, it’s a great destination for hiking, kayaking, and relaxing in cooler temperatures.

Spend your weekend exploring Watson Lake’s unique rock formations, hiking in Prescott National Forest, and strolling along Whiskey Row for shops, restaurants, and historic western charm.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2 hours

My Recommendations:

• • Stay: Read My Post: Where to Stay in Prescott
  • Hikes: Watson Lake Loop, Thumb Butte Trail, Constellation Trail
  • Eat & Drink: The Raven Café, Farm Provisions, Superstition Meadery
  • Do: Kayak at Watson Lake, walk Whiskey Row, explore Prescott Courthouse Plaza

Payson, Arizona

Payson is one of the easiest weekend trips from Phoenix and perfect for a quick nature-filled getaway. Located along the Mogollon Rim, this area offers cooler temperatures, forested trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives just a short distance from the city.

It’s a great option if you want to spend more time outdoors without a long drive, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, and relaxing in nature.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~1.5 hours

My Recommendations:

• • Stay: Kohl’s Ranch Lodge, Rim Country Inn, or nearby cabin rentals
  • Hikes: Water Wheel Falls, Horton Creek Trail, Tonto Natural Bridge trails
  • Eat & Drink: Macky’s Grill, Fargo’s Steakhouse, Tiny’s Family Restaurant
  • Do: Hike to Horton Springs, Swim at Water Wheel Falls drive along the Mogollon Rim

Pine & Strawberry

If you’re looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path getaway, Pine and Strawberry are perfect hidden gem weekend trips from Phoenix. These small mountain towns sit along the Mogollon Rim and offer cooler temperatures, forested trails, and a peaceful cabin getaway vibe.

Spend your weekend hiking to scenic viewpoints, exploring creeks, and enjoying a slower pace surrounded by nature. It’s one of the best spots near Phoenix for a cozy and relaxing escape.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~1.5–2 hours

My Recommendations:

• • • Stay: Strawberry Inn, Fossil Creek Cabins, or a cozy A-frame cabin
    • Hikes: Fossil Creek (permit required), Horton Creek Trail, Pine Canyon Trail
    • Eat & Drink: Old County Inn, THAT Brewery & Pub, Early Bird Café
    • Do: Explore the Mogollon Rim, visit Pine Creek Lavender Farm, shop small businesses in Pine

The White Mountains

If you’re looking to escape the Phoenix heat, the White Mountains are one of the best weekend trips from Phoenix. Located in eastern Arizona, this region is known for its cooler temperatures, alpine forests, and peaceful mountain towns like Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low.

It’s the perfect destination for a slower-paced, outdoorsy weekend filled with hiking, lakes, and cozy cabin stays. Compared to Flagstaff, the White Mountains feel a bit more under-the-radar, making them ideal if you’re looking to avoid crowds.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~3–3.5 hours

My Recommendations:

• • • Stay: The Nook- Pinetop, Corduroy Lodge
    • Hikes: Woodland Lake Loop, Thompson Trail, Mount Baldy Wilderness hikes
    • Eat & Drink: Darbi’s Café, Charlie Clark’s Steakhouse, The House (Show Low)
    • Do: Rent a kayak at Woodland Lake, scenic drive through Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, relax at your cabin

Page, Arizona

Page is one of the most unique and visually stunning weekend trips from Phoenix, offering a completely different landscape from central Arizona. Known for its slot canyons, dramatic viewpoints, and access to Lake Powell, it’s a destination that feels almost otherworldly.

From hiking to iconic overlooks to exploring narrow canyon walls, Page is perfect if you’re looking for adventure and unforgettable scenery.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~4.5 hours

My Recommendations:

• Stay: Hyatt Place Page / Lake Powell, Marble Canyon Lodge
• Hikes: Horseshoe Bend, Beehive Trail, Rim View Trail
• Eat & Drink: Big John’s Texas BBQ, BirdHouse, Lake Powell Coffee
• Do: Tour Antelope Canyon, rent a boat on Lake Powell, catch sunset at Horseshoe Bend

Williams, Arizona

Williams is a fun and nostalgic weekend trip from Phoenix, especially if you love Route 66 charm and small-town vibes. Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” it’s also a great base for visiting the canyon while enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere.

The town itself is full of character, with classic diners, local shops, and seasonal activities that make it a great year-round destination.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2.5–3 hours

My Recommendations:

• Stay: Read My Post- Where to Stay in Williams
• Eat & Drink: Pine Country Restaurant, Cruiser’s Route 66 Café, Red Raven Restaurant
• Do: Ride the Grand Canyon Railway, visit Bearizona, explore Route 66 downtown

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson is one of the best weekend trips from Phoenix if you’re looking for a mix of outdoor adventure, desert landscapes, and an incredible food scene. Surrounded by mountains and home to Saguaro National Park, it offers plenty of opportunities to explore while still enjoying a vibrant city atmosphere.

From hiking among towering cacti to exploring downtown and trying some of Arizona’s best restaurants, Tucson is a well-rounded getaway with something for everyone.

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2 hours

My Recommendations:

• Stay: Hotel Congress, The Tuxon, or a desert-style boutique stay
• Hikes: Valley View Overlook Trail, Tumamoc Hill, Seven Falls Trail
• Eat & Drink: Seis Kitchen, Exo Roast Co., Baja Café
• Do: Visit Saguaro National Park, explore downtown Tucson, catch sunset in the desert

Weekend Trips from Phoenix By Style

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family-friendly getaway, or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of weekend trips from Phoenix to match your travel style. Here are some of the best options based on what kind of trip you’re looking for.

Romantic Weekend Trips

If you’re planning a cozy or scenic getaway, these destinations offer beautiful landscapes, boutique stays, and a more relaxed pace.

• Sedona: Red rock views, luxury resorts, and sunset hikes
• Pine & Strawberry: Quiet cabins, forest views, and a peaceful atmosphere
• Prescott: Charming downtown, lakes, and cozy restaurants
• White Mountains: Secluded cabins and cooler alpine scenery

Family-Friendly Weekend Trips

These destinations are great for a fun and easy trip with kids, offering a mix of activities, attractions, and accessibility.

• Williams: Bearizona, Route 66, and the Grand Canyon Railway
• Flagstaff: Outdoor adventures plus walkable downtown and dining
• Payson: Easy hikes, waterfalls, and plenty of space to explore
• Tucson: Saguaro National Park, museums, and great food

Best Outdoor Adventure Weekend Trips

If your ideal weekend involves hiking, scenic drives, and time outside, these destinations offer some of the best outdoor experiences in Arizona.

• Sedona: Iconic hikes and red rock landscapes
• Grand Canyon: Rim views and challenging hikes below the canyon
• Page: Slot canyons, overlooks, and water activities at Lake Powell
• White Mountains: Forest hikes, lakes, and cooler summer weather

Best Time of Year for Weekend Trips from Phoenix

One of the best things about living in Phoenix is how many incredible destinations are just a short drive away year-round. The key is knowing where to go based on the season.

Spring

Spring is one of the best times for weekend trips from Phoenix, with mild temperatures and blooming desert landscapes.

• Sedona: Ideal hiking weather and vibrant scenery
• Prescott: Comfortable temps and great for exploring downtown
• Tucson: Wildflowers and perfect desert hiking conditions
• Payson: Waterfalls and greenery after winter rains

Summer

When Phoenix temperatures rise, heading to higher elevations is key for a comfortable weekend getaway.

• Flagstaff: Cool mountain air, hiking, and outdoor dining
• White Mountains: One of the coolest regions in Arizona with lakes and forests
• Pine & Strawberry: Easy, nearby escape with shaded trails
• Prescott: Mild temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities

Fall/ Autumn

Fall brings cooler temperatures across Arizona along with changing leaves in higher elevations.

• Flagstaff: Aspen trees and fall colors (Aspen Nature Loop)
• Sedona: Great hiking weather with fewer crowds than peak spring
• Prescott: Crisp air and scenic lake views
• Pine & Strawberry: Cozy cabin vibes and fall foliage

Winter

Winter is one of the most unique times for weekend trips from Phoenix, offering both snowy escapes and mild desert destinations.

• Flagstaff: Snowboarding and skiing at Arizona Snowbowl
• Williams: Snowy small-town charm and Polar Express rides
• Grand Canyon: Quiet trails and dramatic winter views
• Tucson: Mild weather perfect for hiking and exploring

Final Thoughts About Weekend Trips from Phoenix