Arizona encapsulates the essence of the Old West. It offers thrilling gunfights in Tombstone, historic Army forts in Indian territory, and the infamous Territorial Prison in Yuma. It is also renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and the iconic saguaro cactus, which has become a symbol of the region.
Moreover, Arizona boasts a plethora of museums, art galleries, and accommodation options to cater to all types of travelers, whether they prefer hiking or luxurious hotels. Travelers can explore a significant portion of Arizona by embarking on a series of day trips from Phoenix.
9. Tombstone

Tombstone, a town in southern Arizona, is known for being a must-visit place. It gained its reputation for being tough and resilient, refusing to be wiped out. Located 180 miles away from Phoenix, Tombstone is most well-known for the infamous gunfight at the OK Corral. In this event, the famous Earp brothers faced off against a group of outlaws.
Although there is an admission fee to witness a re-enactment of this historic fight, there are also free gunfights happening multiple times a day on the main street of Old Tombstone. Additionally, Tombstone is also famous for Boot Hill cemetery, where both gunmen and regular townspeople were laid to rest, overseeing the vast desert landscape.
8. Grand Canyon

Arizona is a state famous for the Grand Canyon, a stunning natural wonder located in the northern part of the state. The Grand Canyon got its name because it is incredibly wide, stretching up to 18 miles, and can be extremely deep in some areas, reaching over a mile in depth.
The canyon took almost two billion years to form, thanks to the Colorado River, which created it over time. Even though the Colorado River is only a narrow strip at the bottom of the canyon, it played a significant role in shaping its breathtaking features.
The closest rim of the Grand Canyon to Phoenix is the South Rim, but it still takes around 4 hours by car to get there. While it is possible to do a day trip from Phoenix and return on the same day, it may be more enjoyable to spend the night at one of the hotels near the South Rim.
Another option to consider is taking an organized tour, which allows you to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving yourself.
7. Sonora Desert

The Sonora Desert is a beautiful place filled with different types of cactus, including the famous saguaro. It spans across southern Arizona and California all the way into Mexico. It’s best to visit in the spring because the temperatures are cooler compared to the scorching 120 degrees in summer.
If you want to explore the desert up close instead of just driving past on the freeway, you can join off-road vehicle tours from Phoenix or go on a self-guided tour at the Sonoran Desert National Monument.
Tucson also offers attractions like Saguaro National Park and the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, which have well-maintained trails for visitors to enjoy.
6. Apache Trail

The Apache Trail, also called State Route 88, is the oldest highway in Arizona and was initially used as a stagecoach trail through Apache Indian territory. The road begins in Apache Junction, which is part of the larger Phoenix area, and takes you through the Superstition Mountains, known for the legendary Lost Dutchman and Tonto National Forest.
Parts of the road are narrow and unpaved, winding through the mountains without many guardrails or safety barriers. Due to this, it is not recommended for larger vehicles or RVs.
5. Montezuma Castle

The Montezuma Castle is a well-preserved cliff dwelling in America. It was built by the Sinagua civilization in the 12th century. This structure is like a tall apartment complex with five stories and 20 rooms. Even though it’s named after an Aztec emperor, it was actually built 100 years before his birth.
The site also has a visitor center and museum where you can see many ancient relics and artifacts. It’s a great place to visit and stretch your legs if you’re traveling between Phoenix and Sedona.
4. Sedona

Sedona is a beautiful place with amazing red rock formations and national forests. Many people who love outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and off-road riding visit Sedona. Native Americans see this place as sacred, and it is a great destination if you want to feel spiritually refreshed or enjoy luxurious spa treatments.
Sedona is known for its beauty and has over 40 art galleries and a thriving wine industry. Moreover, Sedona is conveniently located only 115 miles away from Phoenix, which makes it an appealing option for a day trip.
3. Bisbee

Bisbee, located south of Tombstone, is a historic town famous for its copper mining. The charming Victorian houses are beautifully situated on a hillside, overlooking the old downtown area. This downtown area is bustling with numerous antique shops and boutiques, ideal for those looking for unique treasures. For fans of author J.A.
Jance, a visit to the Copper Queen Hotel is a must. This hotel holds significance as it serves as the setting for the popular Sheriff Joanna Brady murder mystery series, written by J.A. Jance and based in the Bisbee area. Just below the hotel, there is a fascinating mining museum where you can find mining equipment displayed on the lawn.
On the other side of the highway, you can explore the remnants of the open pit copper mine. It’s important to note that parking options in old Bisbee are limited. Thus, visitors should be prepared to park on the highway and take a short walk into town.
2. Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a city located in a beautiful area surrounded by the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. With its high elevation of 7,000 feet, there are activities for visitors to enjoy all year round. During the winter, people can participate in snow sports like skiing and snowboarding.
In the summer, hiking and rock climbing are popular options. And if you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can simply take in the picturesque beauty of Flagstaff. Another interesting aspect of the city is its connection to historic Route 66, providing motorists with the chance to drive on this iconic American highway.
Additionally, Flagstaff boasts a variety of museums where visitors can delve into the history of the Old West and explore Native American culture.
1. Jerome

Jerome is a town located around 90 miles away from Phoenix. It used to be a copper mining town and was once known as the most wicked town in the west due to its “prostitution row”. The town sits at an elevation of 5,200 feet and was once the fourth largest in Arizona. Today, it is considered the largest ghost town in the United States.
Tourists outnumber the 450 residents and come to visit attractions such as an old copper mine, historic buildings, and a lively arts community. Additionally, people are intrigued by the fact that the town is built on a hill so steep that buildings have been known to slide down it.