Are you looking to explore the beautiful surroundings of Tucson, AZ? Embark on exciting day trips from Tucson AZ to discover the wonders of the region. From stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural experiences, there are plenty of options for a memorable day out. Whether you’re interested in hiking through scenic trails, visiting historic sites, or indulging in local cuisine, these day trips from Tucson AZ offer something for everyone. Join us as we uncover the best destinations just a short drive away from Tucson.
Saguaro National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Tucson AZ: Approximately 15 miles
- Time to get there: Around 30 minutes by car
- How to get there: From Tucson, take E Broadway Blvd and head east. Continue onto E Broadway Blvd for about 8 miles, then turn left onto S Old Spanish Trail. Follow S Old Spanish Trail for approximately 7 miles until you reach the park entrance.
- Click for Google maps directions: Saguaro National Park
Exploring Saguaro National Park: Things to do
Saguaro National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park is renowned for its iconic saguaro cacti, which can reach heights of up to 40 feet and live for over 150 years. These majestic cacti are a symbol of the American Southwest and provide a unique backdrop for exploring the desert landscape.
Visitors to Saguaro National Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The park offers numerous trails of varying difficulty levels, allowing hikers to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot over 200 species of birds that call the park home, including the colorful vermilion flycatcher and the elusive elf owl.
For those interested in astronomy, Saguaro National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Visitors can marvel at the Milky Way and countless stars twinkling overhead, away from the light pollution of the city.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventure-filled day exploring the desert, Saguaro National Park offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty and tranquility of this unique desert landscape.
Mount Lemmon
Travel tips
- Distance from Tucson AZ: Approximately 27 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour drive
- How to get there: From Tucson, take the Catalina Highway (also known as the Mount Lemmon Highway) which leads directly to Mount Lemmon. There are no direct bus or train stations to Mount Lemmon.
- Click for Google maps directions: Mount Lemmon
Exploring Mount Lemmon: Things to do
Mount Lemmon, towering over the Sonoran Desert, offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat and a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. As the southernmost ski destination in the United States, Mount Lemmon attracts visitors year-round with its cool temperatures and diverse recreational opportunities.
One of the must-do activities on Mount Lemmon is hiking. With trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks, hikers of all levels can enjoy the stunning vistas and diverse flora and fauna of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The popular Butterfly Trail and the scenic Aspen Trail are favorites among nature enthusiasts.
For those seeking adventure, rock climbing and bouldering are popular activities on Mount Lemmon. The rugged cliffs and rock formations provide ample opportunities for climbers to test their skills and enjoy breathtaking views from the top.
If you prefer a more leisurely experience, a scenic drive along the Catalina Highway offers panoramic views of the desert below and the lush pine forests above. Be sure to stop at Windy Point Vista for a photo opportunity and to take in the sweeping vistas.
During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the Mount Lemmon Ski Valley, making it a unique destination where you can experience the desert and winter sports in one trip.
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Mount Lemmon offers something for everyone. Plan a day trip to this natural wonderland and discover the beauty and adventure that await just a short drive from Tucson.
Bisbee
Travel tips
- Distance of Bisbee from Tucson AZ: Approximately 95 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there from Tucson AZ: You can drive to Bisbee from Tucson via I-10 E and AZ-80 E. Alternatively, you can take the Greyhound bus from Tucson to Benson and then transfer to the Bisbee Bus Station. There is no direct train service to Bisbee.
- Click for Google maps directions: Bisbee
Exploring Bisbee: Things to do
Bisbee, a historic mining town in Arizona, is a must-see destination for those seeking a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. One of the top attractions in Bisbee is the Queen Mine Tour, where visitors can descend into a real former copper mine and learn about the town’s mining heritage. The Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum is another must-visit spot, showcasing the town’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts.
For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking in the scenic Mule Mountains offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Lavender Pit, an open-pit copper mine, is a striking sight that shouldn’t be missed. Art lovers will appreciate the vibrant art scene in Bisbee, with numerous galleries and studios to explore.
Exploring the historic downtown area, with its colorful buildings and eclectic shops, is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Don’t forget to stop by the Bisbee Breakfast Club for a delicious meal in a charming setting. Overall, Bisbee’s charm lies in its quirky character, fascinating history, and stunning scenery, making it a destination worth visiting.
Tombstone
Travel tips
- Distance of Tombstone from Tucson AZ: Approximately 70 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there from Tucson AZ: You can drive to Tombstone from Tucson by taking AZ-80 E. If you prefer public transportation, you can take the Greyhound bus from Tucson to Benson, and then transfer to the Bisbee Bus which stops in Tombstone. The closest train station is in Benson.
- Click for Google maps directions: Tombstone
Exploring Tombstone: Things to do
Tombstone, Arizona, is a historic town that offers visitors a glimpse into the Wild West era. Known for the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Tombstone is a must-see destination for history buffs and those interested in cowboy culture.
One of the top things to do in Tombstone is to visit the O.K. Corral, where the famous gunfight took place. You can watch reenactments of the event and learn about the history of the area. Another popular attraction is the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, which houses exhibits on the town’s past and the mining industry that once thrived there.
For a taste of the Old West, take a stroll down Allen Street, where you’ll find historic saloons, shops selling cowboy memorabilia, and restaurants serving up hearty Western fare. Don’t miss out on a visit to Boothill Graveyard, the final resting place of many of Tombstone’s early residents.
In addition to its historical attractions, Tombstone also offers outdoor activities such as horseback riding and hiking in the surrounding desert landscape. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique day trip from Tucson, Tombstone has something to offer every visitor.
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Tucson AZ: 50 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour
- To get to Kartchner Caverns State Park from Tucson AZ, take I-10 E to AZ-90 S in Benson. Take exit 302 from I-10 E, then follow signs for Kartchner Caverns State Park. The nearest bus station is in Benson, and the nearest train station is in Tucson.
- Click for Google maps directions: Kartchner Caverns State Park
Exploring Kartchner Caverns State Park: Things to do
Kartchner Caverns State Park is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The park is renowned for its stunning limestone caves, featuring intricate formations and awe-inspiring chambers. Visitors can embark on guided cave tours to explore the underground wonders, learning about the geology and history of the caverns along the way.
Apart from the captivating cave tours, Kartchner Caverns State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking trails wind through the picturesque desert landscape surrounding the caves, providing opportunities to spot native wildlife and admire the unique flora of the region. Birdwatching is also popular in the park, with a diverse array of bird species calling the area home.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping facilities are available within the park, allowing visitors to spend the night under the starlit desert sky. The peaceful surroundings and tranquil atmosphere make Kartchner Caverns State Park an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip from Tucson.
Whether you’re exploring the underground wonders of the caves or soaking in the natural beauty of the desert landscape, Kartchner Caverns State Park offers a memorable experience for all who visit. Plan your trip today and discover the hidden treasures waiting to be explored beneath the surface.
Sabino Canyon
Travel tips
- Distance from Tucson AZ: Approximately 15 miles
- Time to get there: Around 30 minutes by car
- How to get there: From Tucson, take the Catalina Highway northeast. The entrance to Sabino Canyon is well marked on the right-hand side.
- Click for Google maps directions: Sabino Canyon
Exploring Sabino Canyon: Things to do
Sabino Canyon is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Tucson, Arizona. The stunning desert landscape combined with the lush vegetation of the canyon creates a unique and picturesque setting that is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
One of the top activities in Sabino Canyon is hiking along the various trails that offer different levels of difficulty, catering to both beginners and experienced hikers. The Sabino Canyon Trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to spot diverse desert wildlife.
For a more leisurely experience, visitors can take a narrated tram tour through the canyon, learning about the history, geology, and ecology of the area from knowledgeable guides. The tram ride allows for a relaxing way to soak in the beauty of Sabino Canyon without the need for strenuous physical activity.
Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture the natural beauty of Sabino Canyon, from the vibrant desert flora to the rugged rock formations. The changing light throughout the day creates a dynamic and ever-evolving canvas for photographers to explore and capture stunning images.
Overall, Sabino Canyon offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the desert landscape. Whether you prefer an active hike or a leisurely tram ride, Sabino Canyon has something to offer for everyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Chiricahua National Monument
Travel tips
- Distance from Tucson AZ: Approximately 120 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 hours by car
- How to get there: The most convenient way to reach Chiricahua National Monument from Tucson is by car. Take I-10 E and US-191 S to AZ-181 S in Cochise County. Continue on AZ-181 S to the monument. Unfortunately, there are no direct bus or train stations near the monument.
- Click for Google maps directions: Chiricahua National Monument
Exploring Chiricahua National Monument: Things to do
Chiricahua National Monument is a hidden gem in southeastern Arizona that offers a unique landscape filled with towering rock formations and breathtaking vistas. The park is renowned for its striking rock pinnacles, known as hoodoos, which were formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions and erosion.
Visitors to Chiricahua National Monument can embark on scenic hikes along well-maintained trails that wind through the rugged terrain, providing opportunities to witness the park’s diverse flora and fauna up close. The Echo Canyon Trail and the Sugarloaf Mountain Trail are popular choices for those seeking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and rock formations.
For history enthusiasts, the Faraway Ranch Historic District offers a glimpse into the area’s pioneer past, with preserved buildings and exhibits showcasing life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Birdwatchers will also delight in the park’s rich avian diversity, with over 170 species of birds recorded within its boundaries.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Chiricahua National Monument is a must-see destination that promises a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit.
