Arizona Day Trips

1. Sedona

• What is Sedona known for?
  • Nestled in the heart of the desert and surrounded by spectacular red sandstone formations, Sedona is a unique city known for attracting artists and spiritual seekers.
• What are Sedona’s spiritual energy centers?
  • Many believe the area is home to spiritual energy centers known as "vortexes". These locations are said to radiate powerful energy, drawing visitors seeking healing and personal transformation.
• Are there alternative medicine practitioners in Sedona?
  • Yes, the city is filled with alternative medicine practitioners and workshops offering services such as reiki healing and dream interpretation lessons.
• Is Sedona only for spiritual seekers?
  • No, while many come seeking vortex energy, Sedona is also a popular destination for those who love outdoor adventures.
• What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy?
  • The area offers incredible opportunities to hike, climb, and mountain bike among the stunning rock spires and breathtaking landscapes.

2. Coconino National Forest

• What is the Coconino National Forest?
  • Encompassing almost 1.9 million acres of land, the Coconino National Forest is a true paradise for nature lovers.
• Does the forest only consist of trees?
  • No, the forest offers an incredibly diverse selection of terrain, including alpine tundra, towering red sandstone formations, and the peaceful pine and juniper woodlands that visitors might expect.
• What activities can visitors enjoy in Coconino National Forest?
  • Thanks to its varied landscapes, popular activities include hiking, picnicking, camping, and simply driving around to admire the stunning scenery.
• Does the forest include any cities?
  • Yes, the forest also contains the city of Flagstaff, where visitors can stop by the headquarters to pick up a trail map or chat with one of the rangers.

3. Flagstaff, Arizona

• What makes Flagstaff a great destination?
  • Tucked away in the mountainous high country in the northern part of the state, Flagstaff offers the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and big-city amenities.
• What outdoor activities are available in Flagstaff?
  • Depending on the season, visitors can explore world-class trails on Mt. Humphreys or hit the slopes at the Arizona Snowbowl.
• What can visitors do in the afternoon?
  • The afternoon can be spent browsing downtown art galleries and shops, enjoying a beer at a local brewery, or strolling through the Arboretum.
• Where can visitors dine in Flagstaff?
  • There are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from, many of which feature fantastic patios for outdoor dining.

4. Grand Canyon

• Why is the Grand Canyon such a famous landmark?
  • The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, and once you've visited, it's easy to understand why. Its breathtaking views and immense scale make it a must-see destination.
• How can visitors explore the Grand Canyon in a day?
  • To make the most of a day trip, visitors can take a free shuttle bus around the rim to explore the best viewpoints and museums.
• Is there a good hiking option for a short visit?
  • If you're feeling energetic, you can take a short walk along the South Kaibab Trail to experience a view from below the rim.
• Where is the best place to watch the sunset?
  • Don't forget to stay for sunset if you can; the lookout points along Hermit Rest Road offer some of the most spectacular views.

5. Arcosanti

• What is Arcosanti?
  • Arcosanti is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Arizona. It is a bold and exciting example of what the “perfect” urban environment could be.
• What does the term "arcology" mean?
  • The term arcology is a combination of the words architecture and ecology. At Arcosanti, arcology is the guiding principle used to create a real-life, ongoing experiment in designing an ideal city.
• What makes Arcosanti a unique experience?
  • Arcosanti is like nothing else you have ever experienced. It offers a unique blend of architecture, ecology, art, and nature.
• What activities can visitors enjoy at Arcosanti?
  • Visitors can take a guided tour of the center, go hiking, or enjoy breakfast and lunch at the on-site restaurant.
• Can visitors stay overnight at Arcosanti?
  • Yes, visitors have the option to stay overnight and immerse themselves further in the Arcosanti experience.

13555 S Cross L Road, Mayer, AZ 86333, Phone: 928-632-6218

6. Kartchner Caverns State Park

• What is Kartchner Caverns State Park?
  • Home to one of the longest stalactite formations in the world, Kartchner Caverns State Park is an impressive limestone cave system that was first discovered in 1974.
• Can visitors explore the caves on their own?
  • No, visitors can only explore the caves if accompanied by a trained guide. Guided tours are offered throughout the year.
• What is the most popular tour?
  • The most popular tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and takes visitors along the original trail used by the explorers who first discovered the cave.
• Are there other tour options available?
  • Yes, several other tours are offered, including one designed especially for photography enthusiasts.
• Should visitors make reservations?
  • Yes, reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during the summer months.

2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602, Phone: 520-586-4100

7. Mesa

• What is Mesa known for?
  • Although not as well-known as Phoenix and Sedona, Mesa is the third largest city in Arizona. It boasts a vibrant downtown with family-friendly museums, craft breweries, and locally run boutique shops.
• Where can visitors enjoy arts and entertainment in Mesa?
  • The Mesa Arts Center is an excellent place to catch a Broadway play or a jazz concert.
• Are there historical sites to visit in Mesa?
  • Yes, the Mesa Grande Cultural Park provides a chance to explore ancient ruins left by the Hohokam people.
• What outdoor recreation opportunities are available?
  • For those looking for outdoor adventure, the city provides easy access to the spectacular Tonto National Forest, where visitors can hike, kayak, and swim.

8. Meteor Crater

• What is Meteor Crater?
  • Created by a meteorite impact approximately 50,000 years ago, Meteor Crater is a massive impact site that is nearly one mile across and more than 550 feet deep.
• What can visitors do at the Discovery Center?
  • The Discovery Center on the rim of the crater features fun and informative exhibits about asteroids and meteors. It also offers visitors the chance to view the crater from the comfort of an air-conditioned room.
• Are there outdoor viewpoints?
  • Yes, there are three outdoor lookout points that provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Can visitors take a guided tour of the crater?
  • Yes, visitors who want to get even closer to the crater can take a one-hour guided tour of the rim.

Interstate 40, Exit 233 Winslow, AZ 86047

9. Mission of San Xavier del Bac

• What is the Mission of San Xavier del Bac?
  • Affectionately known as “The White Dove of the Desert”, the Mission of San Xavier del Bac is a gorgeous baroque-style mission originally founded in 1692.
• What can visitors see at the on-site museum?
  • The museum is filled with historical artifacts that offer a glimpse into how people have lived in the area over the centuries. It also features a 20-minute film about the history of the mission.
• Can visitors explore the mission on their own?
  • Yes, visitors are welcome to explore the site on their own at their own pace.
• Are guided tours available?
  • Yes, for those who would like a more in-depth experience, free guided tours are available Monday through Saturday.

1950 W San Xavier Rd, Tucson, AZ 85746, Phone: 520-294-2624

10. Montezuma Castle National Monument

• What is Montezuma Castle National Monument?
  • Tucked into the recess of a limestone cliff 90 feet above Beaver Creek, Montezuma Castle National Monument is an incredibly well-preserved cliff dwelling that was inhabited by the Sinagua people until approximately 600 years ago.
• Can visitors climb up to Montezuma Castle?
  • No, visitors have not been allowed to climb up to the five-story building since the 1950s, but excellent views can be seen from the base of the cliff.
• What trails are available at the site?
  • A short trail loops along the river and through a sycamore grove, offering scenic views of the dwelling and surrounding landscape.
• What can visitors find at the Visitor Center?
  • A small museum inside the Visitor Center provides additional historical information about the Sinagua people and the site's significance.
• Is there a place for visitors to relax?
  • Yes, a beautiful picnic area is located along the shore of Beaver Creek, providing a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy nature.

Montezuma Castle National Monument , Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ, Phone: 928-567-3322