For those of us who live in the Phoenix area, it’s incredibly easy to tour many of Arizona’s natural wonders without having to stay overnight in a hotel. There are several day tours in the area that are well worth the trip. Let’s discuss a few of the day trips you can take and what you can expect.
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Sedona
Sedona, located just two hours north of Phoenix, is a charming town of just 10,000 people. Situated in the mouth of the Oak Creek Canyon, it is surrounded by towering red rock formations, making it perfect for hiking, biking, and kayaking. If you’re an art lover, you’ll appreciate the town’s 80 galleries and shops. Be sure to consult the Sedona Gallery Art Walk guide so you don’t miss anything. Stop by the Sedona Heritage Museum to learn about the area’s history and culture. For a more unique view of the town, you can take a hot air balloon ride.
If you’ve worked up an appetite, Sedona’s restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, and Indian. If you decide to stay an extra day, there are several charming bed and breakfasts.
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Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, is just a three hour and 20-minute drive from Phoenix. The park contains miles of trails for hiking and backpacking through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. You can also enjoy the exquisite canyon views while riding on the back of a mule or on a bicycle. You can learn about the history of the park at the historic Kolb Studio. There are several restaurants in and around the park serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Montezuma Castle National Monument
The Montezuma Castle National Monument, located just an hour and a half north of Phoenix, is one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America. It was carved into the side of a limestone cliff by the Sinagua, a Native American tribe who lived in the area over 600 years ago. The site was declared a national monument by Theodore Roosevelt in 1906. When walking along the trails near the cliff-side dwelling, you’re sure to spot hawks and eagles, along with great views of the Arizona sycamore tree. There’s also a museum where you can view archeological artifacts, natural specimens, and historic photos.
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Prescott
The town of Prescott, located two hours north of Phoenix, was once the capital of the Arizona Territory. Several historic buildings and Victorian-era homes are open for touring. If you’re a fan of Western art, you won’t want to miss the Phippen Museum. Over 200 of the country’s best Western artists display and sell pieces there. The town’s dry, temperate climate makes it a great place for outdoor activities, including a round of golf at one of the area’s four golf courses.
These are just some of the great day tours you can take in the Phoenix area. Consider planning a trip so you can see for yourself the wonders of Arizona.
Image via Flickr by Dan Kunz/ Under use by CC BY-SA 2.0
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