From the tranquil and serene Sonoran Desert to the unlimited dining establishments, Arizona boasts of a healthy combination where the natural meets the urban landscape. Whether you enjoy museum trips and cultural landmark excursions, long autumnal hiking mornings in the crisp weather, picturesque and scenic drives along the serene desert landscape, or enjoying concerts, events, and dining establishments, there is something for every kind of traveller in the state of Arizona. If you’re staying in Phoenix, you should know that you have endless options for a scenic drive to a nearby city or a town that isn’t too far away. So, if you are planning a road trip anytime soon, read on to explore our list of the 10 best road trips from Phoenix, Arizona.
1. Colorado Springs, CO
The city of Colorado Springs is a day’s drive away from Phoenix and is a great place to visit. From its beautiful mountains in the backdrop of lush green woods, Colorado Springs is truly the ideal weekend getaway. The road trip will take you about 12 hours to drive through, and the road is extremely scenic with plenty of wildlife and forests on the way. Offering rich cultural attractions such as museums and parks, huge zoos and national parks, as well as thrilling outdoor sports such as ziplining, mountain climbing, and more, Colorado Springs is a wonderful place to go for travellers of all kinds. The weather is wonderful most times of the year as well. It is a truly pleasant vacation spot to check out.
2. San Diego
If you are looking for a city that is closer, San Diego hits the sweet spot when it comes to road trip journeys. At a comfortable five and a half hours drive away from Phoenix, you will reach San Diego before you know it, ready to embark on the adventure it promises. With beautiful white sand beaches, sparkling blue waters, and picturesque palm trees lining the edges of the shores, San Diego promises an idyllic vacation after a comfortable and enjoyable road trip.
3. Salt Lake City, UT
As the capital of Utah, Salt Lake City is an amazing weekend getaway destination and an ideal spot for road trips. An average road trip from Phoenix to Salt Lake City would take about 10.5 hours, making it a good daytime travel journey. You can pack up and leave by morning so you can reach Salt Lake by supper time. Stop by the variety of gas stations, restaurants, eateries, and other establishments along the way for breaks and to fill your stomach. Overall, the roads are very clean, straight, and without too many complications, making it a pleasant drive for the driver as well. If you are travelling with multiple people, it can also be fun to take turns completing the long journey.
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4. Santa Fe, NM
As one of the most culturally forward destinations in the vicinity, Santa Fe holds a special place in the hearts of the residents of New Mexico. Featuring a variety of amazing cultural and historic events going on throughout the year, Santa Fe emphasizes Hispanic and Latinx culture and expression. From mind-blowing events and festivals to lip-smacking Mexican cuisine, this city has a lot to offer. If you’re coming from Phoenix, a trip to Santa Fe will take you about seven and a half hours, making it an easy drive. While driving by the beautiful panoramic route, you will witness architecture and culture representing the Navajo lifestyle as well as the tranquil desert lands. It can’t get better than this!
5. El Paso, TX
One of the closer road trip destinations for the residents of Phoenix, Arizona, is El Paso. It’s a place where you can find Latinx and Mexican culture represented openly. Enjoy and absorb the amazing Tex-Mex blend of cultures here. You can drive down from Phoenix in about six and a half hours, making it a lovely road trip for sure. Known for its military bases all around the city and amazing dining establishments that serve delicious meals round the clock, anytime is a good time to visit El Paso.
6. San Francisco, CA
One of the most popular road trip routes from Phoenix, Arizona, remains to be San Francisco. Head over to the West Coast for a glimpse of relaxed living and cosy beachside accommodations. Dine on fresh seafood by the beach, or explore the rich industrial estate in the city of San Francisco. You can also take a trip to the most famous landmarks in California, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Coit Tower, Chinatown, and more.
7. Albuquerque, NM
Situated in Bernalillo County, Albuquerque is an incredible road trip destination that promises a very pleasant drive. From Phoenix, it should take you about seven hours to drive down to this lovely city in New Mexico, making it an ideal road trip destination if you wish to enjoy the journey as well. Explore the Old Town with its rich historical monuments, landmarks, and culturally rich museums as well as its modern Downtown area with a plethora of restaurants, stores, shopping complexes, and a dizzying array of establishments and services.
8. Denver, CO
As the capital of Colorado, Denver is a highly populated city with plenty of amazing establishments to check out. However, a road trip to this place would take you over 14 hours! Therefore, it is ideal to take turns driving with a companion, or stretch out your road trip over two days for a comfortable drive. A must-visit spot here is the Denver Art Museum, which is an ideal place for art enthusiasts to check out.
9. Sacramento, CA
Small towns have their own charm. Sacramento, being on the banks of the Rivers Sacramento and American River, is a quaint city with beautiful architecture and natural landscapes. Check out old-school attractions such as wooden wagons and cobblestone sidewalks.
10. San Antonio, TX
For experienced road trippers, San Antonio lies at a great distance from Phoenix, taking you about 13 hours to reach on average. However, the rich colonial and historical landmarks are absolutely worth the trip. Explore the gorgeous architecture and amazing walking tours available here. You can also enjoy the rich Mexican cuisine that is served in most of the dining establishments and eateries here.
Enjoy the panoramic drive from Phoenix!
Everyone has fond memories of taking road trips with their family as a child or with friends later in life. Watching the quiet landscapes zoom beside us as we sing along to our favourite songs playing on the car radio is an unforgettable experience no matter how old you are. Take a trip from Phoenix to relive this experience at the next available opportunity, and we are sure you will make memories to last a lifetime.
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