Need a peaceful wine country getaway in Southern Arizona? Head to Elgin! Sip award-winning wines, tour picturesque vineyards, and enjoy sweeping views of the Sonoita grasslands. Whether you're into rustic charm, cowboy culture, or laid-back tastings, Elgin is a hidden gem in the high desert.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Elgin is in the spring and fall (March–May and September–November). These seasons offer mild weather perfect for wine tasting, scenic drives, and attending local festivals.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Elgin is located off Highway 83, about 1 hour southeast of Tucson and 3 hours from Phoenix.
- By Air: Fly into Tucson International Airport and rent a car for a scenic drive to Elgin.
- By Bus or Train: Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the best way to reach Elgin.
Where to Stay
- The Vineyard Bed & Breakfast – Stay among the vines with cozy rooms and warm hospitality.
- Dos Cabezas WineWorks Guesthouse – Rustic yet refined accommodations connected to a boutique winery.
- Rancho Milagro Bed & Breakfast – Western-style lodging with stunning views and horseback riding options nearby.
Vineyards and Wineries
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Arizona Wine Country – Taste wines at Sonoita-Elgin AVA’s many family-owned vineyards and tasting rooms.
- Wilhelm Family Vineyards – Sample Spanish varietals and relax in a scenic patio setting.
- Hops and Vines – A quirky, fun tasting room offering both craft beer and wine.
- Empire Ranch – Explore this historic working cattle ranch and filming site in nearby Sonoita.
Where to Eat
- The Café – Farm-to-table meals made with local ingredients, in nearby Sonoita.
- Canelo Cowboy Café – Grab hearty breakfasts and burgers with Western flair.
- Pronghorn Pizza – Mobile wood-fired pizza often set up at local wineries on weekends.
If you are interested in local events:
- Southeast Arizona Wine Growers Festival (April) – Celebrate regional wines with tastings, music, and food.
- HarvestFest at Sonoita Vineyards (July) – Annual grape-stomping and wine celebration.
- St. Martin’s New Release Festival (November) – Sample newly released wines in celebration of the season.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Elgin, Arizona:
- Sonoita (10–15 min) – Visit more tasting rooms, explore art galleries, or horseback ride through scenic grasslands.
- Patagonia (20–25 min) – Birdwatch at the nature preserve, stroll local shops, or enjoy small-town cafés.
- Coronado National Forest (25–30 min) – Hike forested trails and catch panoramic views of the Arizona borderlands.
- Las Cienegas National Conservation Area (20 min) – Discover open-range beauty, wildlife viewing, and photo ops.
- Tombstone (30 min) – Step back in time with Wild West reenactments and saloons in this historic town.
FAQ:
- Q: What is the area surrounding Elgin, Arizona known as?
- A: The area surrounding Elgin, Arizona, is often referred to as the Mountain Empire, with the Santa Rita Mountains in the west, the Patagonia Mountains to the southwest, the Whetstone Mountains in the east, and the Hauchuca Mountains in the southeast.
- Q: What can be found between the mountain ranges near Elgin?
- A: Between the mountain ranges lie rolling hills and several different vineyards.
- Q: Why are Elgin's wineries a good day trip destination from Tucson?
- A: The wineries of Elgin are located around an hour away from Tucson, making them a great day trip destination during a visit to the city.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and perfect for wine tasting.
Rancho Milagro Bed & Breakfast – A charming and peaceful stay in wine country.
Tour Sonoita-Elgin Wine Trail – Visit top wineries and vineyards.
Summer (June-August) – Warm but great for scenic drives and stargazing.
Spirit Tree Inn B&B – A rustic and relaxing retreat.
Visit Coronado National Forest – Enjoy scenic hikes and wildlife viewing.
Fall (September-November) – Beautiful vineyard landscapes and harvest season.
The Last Territory Inn – A cozy southwestern-style stay.
Attend the Sonoita AVA New Release Festival – Celebrate local winemaking.
Winter (December-February) – Cool temperatures and fewer crowds.
Elgin Winery Guest House – Stay in a unique winery setting.
Explore historic ghost towns nearby – Visit the old mining town of Patagonia.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Sip Bold Blends at Twisted Union Wine Company
- 2. Taste Award-Winning Wines at Callaghan Vineyards
- 3. Experience Italian-Inspired Vintages at Lightning Ridge Cellars
- 4. Explore Spirits and Wines at Flying Leap Vineyards & Distillery
- 5. Visit Arizona's Oldest Commercial Winery at Sonoita Vineyards
- 6. Sample Local Varietals at The Village of Elgin Winery