15 May 5 Arizona Getaways to Kickstart Your Summer

With the close of Memorial Day Weekend, summertime is upon us! We’ve gathered a few Arizona destinations for your next getway to start off the summer. These five locales are just far enough to give you that out-of-town feel, while still giving you the opportunity to explore new areas of our amazing state!

Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff is just about two hours north of Phoenix, but offers a completely different environment from the Valley. You’ll find yourself amongst high-country pines and idyllic camping spots. Rent out a cabin for a larger party and enjoy some of the amazing hiking and mountain biking trails around the area! Of course, don’t forget about a quick stop at the Snowbowl, one of the two offical skiing destinations in the state. During the summer months, between Memorial Day Weekend through October, you can take a scenic chairlift ride through the cool pines. Definitely worth the trip.

More info here.

Sedona, AZ

If you aren’t up for cool pines and snowy peaks, stop short of Flagstaff to Sedona for a visit. Sedona is just about an hour and a half out of Phoenix, making it perfect for even a quick day trip. There are literally hundreds of different activities to do in Sedona, like hiking up the rocky red trails that the area is known for — or take an amazing helicopter ride through the cliffs! There is also plenty of shopping and dining, as well as premier boutique day spas for a little more R & R. Make sure to drive through beautiful Oak Creek for amazing panoramic views of the area.

More info here.

Jerome, AZ

Located right between Prescott and Flagstaff and just a short drive from Sedona lies Jerome, the “Largest Haunted City in Arizona.” This is an old copper mining city, and most of the buildings in town were built in the late 1890’s, making Jerome a really interesting place to explore. The town is fabled to be haunted — but judge that for yourself by taking a guided “Haunted Tour” through Main Street. And, of course, as with any historical town, you will find plenty of attractions in the two historic museums and guided mine tours.

More info here.

Box Canyon, AZ

Box Canyon is one of those “secret spots” in Arizona — you really have to be looking for it to find it. Located just a few miles East of Payson in northern Arizona, you can find Box Canyon only through a designated trail, travelling in sturdy 4×4’s or four-wheelers. The trails wind through incredibly steep red and orange canyon walls, eventually passing near pristine swimming holes. It’s not uncommon to see groups of people jumping off of the tall rocks into the water, you’ll want to try it!

More info here. 

Page, AZ

Near the border of Arizona and Utah, Page sits along the southern shores of Lake Powell.  It’s proximity to the lake eventually transformed the city into a resort area that boasts all kinds of outdoor recreation. Boating and water activities are profound, but it should be noted that there are major canyons worth exploring, including the Rainbow Bridge National Monument that can be reached via watercraft. Page also hosts all kinds of events from bass fishing tournaments to mountain bike races. The most incredible stop may be at Antelope Canyon, which can only be accessed through guided tours but is arguably one of the most interesting places in Arizona.

More info here.