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Tempe’s central location is an ideal starting point for destinations throughout Arizona. Tempe is located in the heart of Metropolitan Phoenix, minutes from PHX Sky Harbor International Airport. Tempe is easily accessed from the I-10, 202, 101 or U.S. 60 freeways. During your Arizona trip, you can experience the awe inspiring Grand Canyon, visit the picture perfect red rocks of Sedona and the pine forests of the Mogollon Rim. Or, see the beautiful Saguaro National Park near Tucson or the amazing Kartchner Caverns in Benson. The choices are endless and the access is incredible from Tempe.
Check out our staff picks for day trips from Tempe, including fun destinations like Flagstaff and Bearizona, Goldfield Ghost Town, Payson, and the mining towns Globe, Superior and Miami.
Before visiting one of the state parks below, please go to their website for hours of operation, entry fees and more details. And, for more information about things to do in Arizona, visit the Arizona Office of Tourism website.
Mogollon Rim
Vast panoramas, forests and scenic trails, extending from Payson to Pinetop-Lakeside. (165 miles/ 264 km north) Photo credit: Arizona Office of Tourism
Phone: (800) 672-9766
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Montezuma Castle
A well-preserved ancient Indian cliff dwelling built more than six centuries ago. (114 miles/182.4 km north)
Phone: (928) 567-3322
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Nogales
Nogales offers visitors a blend of regional cultures and natural beauty. It is also a gateway to Mexico. (174 miles/280 km south)
Phone: (520) 287-3685
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Painted Desert and Petrified Forest
High desert region splashed with a brilliant array of colors, including a 160-million-year-old petrified forest. (200 miles/320 km north)
Phone: (928) 524-6228
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Prescott
Enjoy the mild climate, national forest, historical sites, galleries and museums in Arizona’s first capitol. (111 miles/178 km north)
Phone: (800) 266-7534
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Roosevelt Dam
This dam forms Lake Roosevelt, a popular spot for fishing, boating, swimming and water skiing. (54 miles/86.4 km north)
Phone: (623) 773-6480
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Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is home to both the Tucson Mountain District and the Rincon Mountain District. Elevation ranges from 2,180 ft. to 8,666 ft. and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Common wildlife in the park includes the coyote, quail, desert tortoise, black bear and the Mexican spotted owl.
Phone: (520) 733-5158
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Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon
Spectacular beauty makes the red rock country a paradise for artists, photographers, golfers, hikers and nature lovers. (129 miles/206 km north)
Phone: (800) 288-7336
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Sunset Crater
Located 20 miles from Flagstaff, this once-active volcano is unique in color and beauty. (175 miles/280 km north)
Phone: (928) 526-1157
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Tombstone
Known as “the town too tough to die,” Tombstone is an authentic 1880 Western town and the famous location of the Shoot-out at the O.K. Corral. (200 miles/320 km south) Photo credit: Cochise County Tourism Council
Phone: (888) 457-3929
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