The 11 Best Day Trips From Scottsdale, Arizona

Whether you’re living in Scottsdale or just visiting with the family, there are a multitude of things you can do that cater to essentially everyone, including adults and kids. When we say ‘day trip’, we’re talking about places about 2 hours away at most. It’s not common that a day trip is more than that, since by that point you’re likely to be staying at a hotel or lodging somewhere.

A Brief Understanding of Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale, Arizona, often referred to as “The West’s Most Western Town,” is a gem in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.

It offers a unique blend of modern urban living, rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a plethora of recreational and leisure activities.

What makes Scottsdale so great is not only the amazing history of the city, but there’s so much to do that not everyone knows about. When someone who doesn’t live in Arizona thinks of this state or any city in it, what usually comes to mind are cactus, hot weather, armadillos and tumbleweeds.

However, here’s a small taste of what Scottsdale, AZ has:

Natural Beauty: Scottsdale is surrounded by the picturesque Sonoran Desert, characterized by its iconic saguaro cacti. The city also boasts a backdrop of the McDowell Mountains, providing beautiful views and numerous hiking opportunities.

Cultural Vibrancy: This city home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art are just a couple of the cultural hubs in the city.
World-Class Golf: Scottsdale is renowned for its golf courses. With over 200 courses in the area, it’s a golfer’s paradise, hosting several professional tournaments like the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Luxurious Resorts & Spas: This city boasts some of the country’s top luxury resorts and spas, providing visitors with world-class amenities, spa treatments, and relaxation opportunities.

Old Town Scottsdale: This vibrant downtown area is a mix of historic sites, contemporary arts, boutique shopping, and a diverse range of dining options. It’s a cultural hub and a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
Events and Festivals: From the Barrett-Jackson Car Auction and the Arabian Horse Show to art walks and culinary festivals, Scottsdale hosts numerous events throughout the year.
Western Heritage: Its history is rooted in its cowboy era. This heritage is celebrated in various ways, from western-themed activities and events to its architecture and design.

Outdoor Recreation: Beyond golf, Scottsdale offers a plethora of outdoor activities from hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, to hot air balloon rides, providing countless ways to explore and appreciate its natural beauty.
Culinary Scene: The city has a dynamic dining scene, with numerous restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines. Whether you’re looking for upscale dining, Southwestern specialties, or international fare, they have it all.
Nightlife: The nightlife here is lively and varied. With a plethora of bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into dancing, live music, or just a relaxed evening out.

Safety and Cleanliness: This city often ranks high in terms of safety among US cities, and it’s known for its clean streets and well-maintained public areas.
Proximity to Other Attractions: Scottsdale’s location in Arizona makes it a convenient base for exploring other regional attractions, including Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and other parts of the Greater Phoenix area.

With all that being said, if you opt to stay in this city and skip the day trip, there’s so much to do here.

But as promised, here’s a comprehensive list of the best day trips from Scottsdale, AZ to enjoy and make unforgettable memories.

The Best Day Trips From Scottsdale, Arizona

1. Sedona, Arizona

Distance from Scottsdale: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Website:Visit Sedona
- Why is this place popular?
  - Known for its iconic red rock formations.
  - Offers numerous hiking and biking trails.
  - Spiritual vortexes draw visitors from around the world.
- How much does the place cost?
  - Many areas are free, but some hiking trails and parks might have an entrance fee.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Cathedral Rock
  - Chapel of the Holy Cross
  - Bell Rock

2. Prescott, Arizona

Distance from Scottsdale: About 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Website:Visit Prescott
- Why is this place popular?
  - Historical significance as Arizona’s former territorial capital.
  - Whiskey Row, known for its old saloons.
  - Offers a cooler climate and lush green landscapes.
- How much does the place cost?
  - Exploring the town is free, but certain attractions may have fees.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Courthouse Plaza
  - Sharlot Hall Museum
  - Lynx Lake

3. Apache Trail Scenic Drive

Distance from Scottsdale: Starts approximately 40 minutes away.
Website:Apache Trail Arizona
- Why is this place popular?
  - Scenic views of the Superstition Mountains.
  - Passes through the Tonto National Forest.
  - Desert landscapes, canyons, and lakes can be seen on the drive.
- How much does the place cost?
  - It’s free to drive, but certain attractions on the way might have entrance fees.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Goldfield Ghost Town
  - Canyon Lake
  - Lost Dutchman State Park

4. Payson, Arizona

Distance from Scottsdale: Roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Website:Visit Payson
- Why is this place popular?
  - Known as the “Heart of Arizona” for its central location.
  - Offers a mix of pine forests and desert landscapes.
  - Famous for the Tonto Natural Bridge.
- How much does the place cost?
  - Exploring the town is free, but some attractions like Tonto Natural Bridge have an entrance fee.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
  - Rim Country Museum
  - Green Valley Park

5. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Distance from Scottsdale: About 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Website:National Park Service – Montezuma Castle
- Why is this place popular?
  - One of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America.
  - Offers a glimpse into the life of the Sinagua people.
  - Surrounded by beautiful desert landscapes.
- How much does the place cost?
  - There’s an entrance fee, which includes access to the main castle and the nearby Montezuma Well.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Montezuma Castle
  - Montezuma Well
  - Beaver Creek

6. Jerome, Arizona

Distance from Scottsdale: Approximately 2 hours.
Website:Jerome Chamber of Commerce
- Why is this place popular?
  - Historic copper mining town.
  - Known as the “Wickedest Town in the West”.
  - Offers breathtaking views as it sits on Cleopatra Hill.
- How much does the place cost?
  - Exploring Jerome is mostly free, though specific attractions or tours may have fees.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Jerome State Historic Park
  - Gold King Mine Museum
  - The Sliding Jail

7. Tuzigoot National Monument

Distance from Scottsdale: Just under 2 hours.
Website:National Park Service – Tuzigoot
- Why is this place popular?
  - Ancient ruins of the Sinagua people.
  - Perched on a 120-foot ridge with panoramic views.
  - Provides insight into the pre-Columbian era of the region.
- How much does the place cost?
  - There’s an entrance fee which covers the entire monument.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Tuzigoot Pueblo
  - Bridgeport State Park
  - Verde River

8. Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Distance from Scottsdale: About 45 minutes.
Website:Maricopa County Parks – Lake Pleasant
- Why is this place popular?
  - Largest lake in the Phoenix metro area.
  - Popular for boating, fishing, and camping.
  - Spectacular views, especially during sunset.
- How much does the place cost?
  - There is an entrance fee which varies depending on vehicle type and season.
- Famous landmarks:
  - The marina
  - Scorpion Bay
  - Waddell Dam

9. Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Distance from Scottsdale: About 1 hour.
Website:Boyce Thompson Arboretum
- Why is this place popular?
  - Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden.
  - Showcases plants from the world’s deserts.
  - Offers themed trails such as the Cactus Garden and Eucalyptus Forest.
- How much does the place cost?
  - There’s an admission fee for adults, with discounts for children and members.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Smith Interpretive Center
  - Butterfly Pavilion
  - Ayer Lake

10. Kartchner Caverns State Park

Distance from Scottsdale: Approximately 2 hours.
Website:Kartchner Caverns State Park
- Why is this place popular?
  - Showcases a stunning limestone cave.
  - Home to the world’s longest stalactite formation.
  - Offers guided tours that delve into the cavern’s history.
- How much does the place cost?
  - Entrance fee to the park, with an additional fee for cave tours.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Big Room and Rotunda/Throne Room tours
  - Discovery Center
  - Bat Cave Cafe

11. Picacho Peak State Park

Distance from Scottsdale: About 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Website:Picacho Peak State Park
- Why is this place popular?
  - Known for the iconic Picacho Peak.
  - Popular spot for hiking and spring wildflower viewing.
  - Site of the westernmost Civil War battle.
- How much does the place cost?
  - There’s an entrance fee to the park, with a discount for Arizona residents.
- Famous landmarks:
  - Hunter Trail
  - Civil War Battlefield
  - Sunset Vista Trail

What Have We Learned?

We have learned that although Scottsdale is an amazing city filled with endless adventures, there’s also so much to do just outside the city borders. In the case that you and your family does travel, don’t forget the supplies, sunscreen, water, and good vibes!

Be sure to check out our list of top destinations in Arizona for when you’re planning a visit to the South West!