Looking for the perfect Arizona day trip? Exploring the sunny state of Arizona is easy to do from Tempe, Arizona.

Located in the middle of the state, Tempe is a perfect jumping off point to head north to the pines in Flagstaff, or south to Tucson for scenic desert beauty and incredible Mexican food. There are lots of fun destinations to explore on a day trip from Tempe. So, after a couple of days of relaxing, shopping, eating and outdoor fun in Tempe, stay an extra night to check out a great part of Arizona that you can see in just one day.

Where should you go you ask? We are here to help! We have personally tested out several of our favorite day trips from Tempe, including great restaurants and stops along the way, to make your decision easy!

Read the blogs detailing each excursion, watch the videos, and then pick the day trip that fits you best.

Day Trips from Tempe: Apache Trail Loop – A day trip to Goldfield Ghost Town and Tortilla Flat along the Apache Trail Loop is perfect for those looking for not too much driving, great food and a taste for the Wild West. This is a great option for families with kids.

Day Trips from Tempe: Florence – Within just over an hour, travelers can step into the peaceful space at St Anthony’s Greek Orthodox Monastery. Afterwards, drive just 10 minutes to the town of Florence for some good grub and a historic downtown experience.

Day Trips from Tempe: Out of Africa Wildlife Park – A 90-minute, scenic drive north of Tempe will lead you to family fun at Out of Africa Wildlife Park and a legendary spot for delicious slices of pie.

Day Trips from Tempe: Flagstaff and Bearizona – Escape the desert and head north to Flagstaff where you’ll find a charming downtown, the Pioneer Museum and a wildlife park (complete with lots of bears) in nearby Williams.

Day Trips from Tempe: Sedona – Looking for that great hike with out of this world views? A quick 90-minute drive up the I-17 will take you to Sedona.

Day Trips from Tempe: Payson – A quick hour and a half drive north will lead you to the quaint mountain town of Payson. Explore nearby Tonto Natural Bridge for scenic views of the area and plenty of hiking opportunities.

Day Trips from Tempe: Jerome – Visit an eccentric artist community that is built into the mountainside. A two hour drive will get you there! A bonus to this trip? Jerome is also known to be haunted, so after visiting Jerome’s local galleries and shops, sign up for a ghost tour for some after dark fun.

Day Trips from Tempe: Superior, Miami and Globe – Take a day trip from Tempe to explore and reminisce in the old copper mining towns of Superior, Miami and Globe, Arizona.

Day Trips from Tempe: Antelope Canyon – Travel to northern Arizona and into Navajo Nation to experience the awe inspiring Antelope Canyon. We left the driving to someone else and joined a DETOURS tour for this excursion. With a knowledgeable tour guide and a full itinerary, it’s a great way to see so much in just one day.

Day Trips from Tempe: Cave Creek – Discover scenic Cave Creek, a place that is within 45 minutes to an hour north of Tempe. It’s known for beautiful Sonoran Desert hiking trails, wide open spaces and spots that are reminiscent of the Wild West.

Day Trips from Tempe: Salt River Rafting – From February through May, Salt River Rafting can take you on a relaxing and exhilarating trip down the scenic Salt River. Just make sure to stop in Globe, Arizona before or after rafting for seriously good Mexican food.