Where Desert Adventure Begins
Phoenix isn’t just a bustling desert city—it’s the launchpad to some of the most breathtaking and culturally rich destinations in the Southwest. Whether you’re into majestic natural wonders, Wild West ghost towns, or exploring Native American art and history, there’s no shortage of unforgettable day trips from Phoenix.
In fact, this region offers more variety in a single day than some places offer in a week. And thanks to DETOURS American West, exploring these wonders has never been more comfortable or enriching. With expert tour guides, luxury transportation, and deep local knowledge, these tours turn “day trips” into lifelong memories.
Let’s dive into 10 of the most exciting Phoenix day trip options for travelers of all kinds.
1. Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Optional Helicopter Ride
No list of trips from Phoenix is complete without the legendary Grand Canyon National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder is a must-see, even if you’ve only got a single day to spare. While on our Grand Canyon South Rim Tour, you’ll marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim.
Highlights:
- Scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff
- Visit multiple iconic viewpoints along the Grand Canyon South Rim
- Optional “Colors & Canyons” 45-minute helicopter ride
If you choose to add on this unforgettable experience, get ready for a breathtaking aerial adventure! Soar above one of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes as your helicopter glides over the Grand Canyon’s vast cliffs, colorful rock layers, and winding river paths. From the lush Kaibab National Forest to the Painted Desert and the Dragon Corridor, every turn reveals a new and unforgettable perspective of this natural wonder.
Whether you’re gazing across the Canyon’s vast depths or soaring above it by helicopter, you’ll be awestruck. This is more than just a Phoenix day trip—it’s a soul-stirring experience.
2. Sedona + Montezuma Castle National Monument
Just two hours north of Phoenix lies Sedona, a town surrounded by red rock formations, spiritual energy, and local charm. Along the way, stop at the ancient cliff dwellings of Montezuma Castle—a fascinating window into the lives of the Sinagua people. Our Sedona and Montezuma Castle Day Trip from Phoenix truly offers a blend of culture, nature, and history.
Highlights:
- Explore Bell Rock, Airport Mesa and Chapel of the Holy Cross
- Visit Montezuma Castle National Monument
- Free time to explore Sedona’s art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques in Uptown or Tlaquepaque–or opt for a thrilling add-on to elevate your experience.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Sedona offers epic hiking trails and views that shift with the changing light. You can swap your free time exploring Uptown Sedona for an adventurous add-on, such as an off-road Jeep tour or a guided hike.
3. Antelope Canyon + Horseshoe Bend
Located near the Arizona-Utah border, Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon that glows in vibrant oranges and purples as sunlight pours in from above. Our Antelope Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix pairs with a stop at Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River makes a dramatic U-shaped bend around a towering sandstone formation below the cliff’s edge.
Highlights:
- Guided walk through Lower Antelope Canyon with an expert Navajo guide
- Visit the stunning overlook at Horseshoe Bend
- Journey to the town of Page, Arizona and visit a Navajo Trading Post along the way
This is one of those natural wonders that looks even better in person than in pictures—if that’s even possible! Please note that this tour has physical requirements, including climbing up and down steep metal ladders.
4. Grand Canyon + Sedona Combo
Can’t decide between the Grand Canyon and Sedona? Do both in a single day on this action-packed Grand Canyon & Sedona adventure!
Highlights:
- Experience several viewpoints at the spectacular Grand Canyon South Rim
- Stroll the rim and visit El Tovar, Hopi House, and more!
- Photo stops in Sedona, including Bell Rock, Uptown and Oak Creek Canyon
While this is a great way to experience both the Grand Canyon and Sedona, if you’re looking to spend more time there, check out our multi-day trips from Phoenix.
5. Apache Trail + Dolly Steamboat Cruise
For a journey into the Superstition Mountains and Sonoran Desert, our Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Cruise is one of the most scenic road trips in Arizona. It’s a favorite for those who want to explore ghost towns, legends, and lakes—all in a single day.
Highlights:
- Visit the Goldfield Ghost Town and Tortilla Flat, a quirky Old West hamlet
- Cruise Canyon Lake on the Dolly Steamboat
- Take a scenic drive along the Apache Trail–Arizona’s first Historic Highway
This day trip from Phoenix is especially great for families and those who want a little bit of everything—history, nature, and a splash of floating fun.
6. Phoenix to Las Vegas Adventure Transfer
Turn a boring travel day into one of the most unforgettable day trips imaginable. If you’re heading to Las Vegas from Phoenix, take a scenic detour that includes the Grand Canyon South Rim—an experience you’ll only get on our Phoenix to Las Vegas with Grand Canyon Tour.
Highlights:
- Visit some of the best viewpoints at the Grand Canyon National Park
- Stroll the rim and visit El Tovar, Hopi House, and more!
- Arrive in Las Vegas at the end of the day, adventure complete!
It’s the perfect way to combine practicality with a wow factor.
7. Tombstone + San Xavier del Bac
Relive the Wild West at Tombstone, where cowboys once ruled the streets and justice was dealt with a pistol. Learn some terrific Tombstone facts. Then visit the serene and beautiful San Xavier del Bac Mission, a spiritual and architectural marvel just south of Tucson.
Highlights:
- Walk Allen Street, the site of the O.K. Corral, Big Nose Kate’s Saloon, and Bird Cage Theatre
- Tour Boothill Cemetery, where legends like Billy Clanton and Tom & Frank McLaury are laid to rest
- Stop at San Xavier del Bac Mission, known as the “White Dove of the Desert”
Our Private Tombstone and San Xavier del Bac Trip from Phoenix offers a unique opportunity to explore two distinct aspects of Arizona’s past: its rugged frontier days and its rich spiritual heritage.
8. Sedona & Verde Valley Wineries
Combine jaw-dropping scenery with bold, local flavors on our Sedona & Verde Valley Wineries Private Day Trip from Phoenix. In Sedona, visit Bell Rock, the expansive Airport Mesa, and the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross. Just 25 minutes outside Sedona are some of the best Verde Valley Wineries.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of Sedona’s red rock landscapes
- Visit Verde Valley wineries such as Oak Creek Vineyards, Javelina Leap, Page Springs or Alcantara
- Options for shopping, galleries, and restaurants in Uptown or Tlaquepaque
- Optional visit to Jerome, an old mining ghost town turned popular artist colony
Wine lovers will be pleasantly surprised at the quality of Arizona’s vintages—and the views don’t hurt either. And because this is a private tour, the time spent at various locations is tailored to your preferences. Hence, this is also a fantastic option for bachelorette parties, team-building, friend and family celebrations, or anyone who loves gorgeous scenery and wine!
9. Jerome & Verde Canyon Railroad
Our Private Jerome & Verde Canyon Railroad Day Trip from Phoenix is tailor-made for history enthusiasts and train lovers. Begin in Jerome, a small town perched on the mountainside, overlooking the Verde Valley. Once a thriving copper mining town, Jerome earned the nickname “The Wickedest Town in the West” due to its rowdy reputation in the early 1900s. Then board the Verde Canyon Railroad in Clarkdale for a stunning ride through the wilderness.
Highlights:
- Explore the quaint shops and impressive views of the historic mining town of Jerome
- First-class seat on the famous Verde Canyon railroad offering gorgeous views of the Verde Canyon
- Tour the world-class Arizona Copper Museum in Clarkdale
Perfect for those wanting a slower pace with a hefty dose of old-timey charm.
10. Phoenix & Scottsdale City Highlights
Sometimes the best Phoenix day trip is staying local. Whether you’re visiting for a short time or want to gain a deeper understanding of the Valley, our Private Phoenix & Scottsdale City Half-Day Tour is packed with highlights.
Highlights:
- Walk Old Town Scottsdale, known for incredible dining, galleries and shopping
- Explore the historic Arizona State Capitol building in downtown Phoenix.
- Learn about the incredible architecture of the “Jewel of the Desert” at the Arizona Biltmore
This tour offers a fantastic intro for anyone visiting Phoenix for the first time.
Multi-Day Trip from Phoenix Options
Want to go beyond a single day? DETOURS American West offers several options for immersive, multi-day trips from Phoenix that allow you to delve deeper into the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes and cultural experiences. From overnight stays in Monument Valley to extended adventures that span Antelope Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park, these trips give you enough time to slow down, explore hidden gems, and soak in the magic of the desert—sunrise to starlight.
Adventure Awaits in the City of Phoenix and Beyond
These aren’t just your average day trips from Phoenix—they’re immersive journeys into the heart of Arizona and beyond. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, Native American art, desert hikes, or historic towns, the Phoenix area has it all.
With DETOURS American West, your travel experience is elevated through expert storytelling, comfort, and curated itineraries that maximize your time.
Ready to explore? Pack your essentials and book your next public or private day trip today—and discover how unforgettable a single day can truly be.
