17-05-2025
Memorial Day weekend 2025: Best Arizona road trips to kick off summer
Why battle airport chaos or long drives out of state when some of Arizona's most charming getaways are just a few hours away? This Memorial Day weekend, skip the stress and opt for an in-state staycation.
Whether you're craving cool mountain air, red rock views, ghost town chills or artistic escapes, Arizona has you covered. From the historic allure of Prescott and Jerome to the starry skies of Flagstaff, the red rock magic of Sedona and the quirky charm of Bisbee, each destination offers something unique.
With plenty of local flavor, these towns are perfect for a quick reset, full of fresh air, fun and a taste of Arizona's rich personality.
Here are the best Arizona road trips to take on Memorial Day weekend.
Once dubbed the 'Wickedest Town in the West,' Jerome was a booming copper mining town built into the side of Cleopatra Hill in the late 1800s.
Today, it's a quirky artist enclave with haunted hotels, wine-tasting rooms and shops tucked into historic buildings that seem to defy gravity.
Just about two hours north of Phoenix, the drive to Jerome winds through the scenic desert and twisting mountain curves. Whether you're chasing ghosts or admiring the views, Jerome is the kind of weird, wonderful place that proves Arizona's past is never too far behind. Here are the top things to do:
Eat at Haunted Hamburger: Get a delicious burger with a priceless view at this favorite restaurant. Order a red wine Wagyu bacon burger and grab a seat on the patio, where you can savor your meal as well as a panoramic view of the Verde Valley and the red rocks of Sedona in the distance.
Check out Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes: Considered one of the largest kaleidoscope galleries and showcasing handcrafted pieces from over 90 artists worldwide, this whimsical shop captivates visitors with its mesmerizing collection of optical art, ranging from playful toys to intricate, museum-quality designs.
Stay at the Jerome Grand Hotel: If you're brave enough to check in and maybe never sleep again, the Jerome Grand Hotel is your kind of haunt. Perched high above the Verde Valley, this former hospital-turned-hotel is infamous for its paranormal activity. Guests have reported ghostly apparitions of doctors, nurses and patients, and mysterious sounds like footsteps. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just curious, the Jerome Grand Hotel offers a spine-tingling stay in one of Arizona's most haunted locations.
Things to do: This metro Phoenix city has a new water park. Here's where you can slide, splash and swim
Sedona is a stunning desert town known for its vibrant red rock formations and spiritual energy. Originally home to Native American peoples and then settlers who arrived in the early 1900s, Sedona became a hotspot for artists, hikers and healers drawn to its natural beauty and mysterious vortexes. Here are the top things to do:
Eat at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill: The Food Network recently named Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill in Sedona the most charming small-town restaurant in Arizona. Known for its breathtaking views and elegant architecture, the restaurant reflects Sedona's natural beauty and artistic spirit. Chef Lisa Dahl, who also owns five other restaurants and has competed on the Food Network's "Beat Bobby Flay," crafts a menu that combines Latin flair with upscale comfort. Guests rave about the churrasco grilled meats and the empanadas.
Grab a treat at Sedonuts: Husband-and-wife duo Paul and Lynette Gilkey opened Sedonuts & Coffee with a commitment to quality and freshness that quickly made the shop a local favorite. Their menu features classic donuts and the signature Vortex cinnamon roll topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Many of their donuts are playfully named after famous Sedona landmarks, like the Red Rocks, adding a creative, hometown touch to every bite. Their dedication has earned Sedonuts a spot on Yelp's list of the Top 100 Donut Shops in the U.S. and Canada.
Take a dip in a swimming hole: Sedona and the Verde Valley have numerous natural swimming holes, scenic gems carved by time and water. Slide Rock State Park may be the superstar, but savvy locals often head for Grasshopper Point, where you can leap from ledges into deep pools or lounge under sycamore shade. Another stunner is Crescent Moon Picnic Site, with mellow water and that iconic Cathedral Rock view that practically begs to be Instagrammed. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, 'The Crack' at Wet Beaver Creek rewards hardy hikers with sun-drenched red rocks and plunge-worthy pools. Just don't forget a trash bag because these places should be treated with care.
Bisbee was once a booming copper-mining town in the early 1900s, earning the nickname "Queen of the Copper Camps." Today, it's known less for its minerals and more for its quirky, artsy charm, with historic buildings nestled into the Mule Mountains and colorful staircases zigzagging through the hills. It's a fun destination for those who love a mix of Old West history, ghost stories, art galleries, and offbeat local shops. Here are the top things to do:
Experience the Queen Mine tour: Journey into Arizona's rich mining heritage where you'll don hard hats, safety vests and miners' headlamps before boarding an original mine train that ventures 1,500 feet into the historic Copper Queen Mine. The tour provides insights into mining techniques, the daily lives of miners and the challenges they face underground. Along the way, guests can disembark to walk through tunnels and explore the mine's depths, experiencing firsthand the environment where miners once toiled.
Visit the Art Wall: The Art Wall is an ever-evolving outdoor gallery nestled between 24 and 26 Brewery Ave. in the Brewery Gulch area of Old Bisbee. This vibrant alleyway showcases a diverse array of artworks, from colorful murals to eclectic installations, reflecting the town's rich artistic spirit and community engagement. Open 24/7, it's a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Get desserts at Patisserie Jacqui: Why get your typical bagel when you can get a little sweet treat? Owned and operated by chef Jackie Oatman, this charming spot has garnered national acclaim, earning a semifinalist nod for the 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bakery. Specializing in both sweet and savory pastries, the bakery is renowned for its flaky croissants, decadent tarts, and unique offerings like the Hatch chile croissant.
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Flagstaff, nestled at 7,000 feet in northern Arizona, began as a railroad and lumber town in the late 1800s. Today, it blends its Wild West roots with a mountain-town vibe. This high-elevation haven is a launchpad for outdoor adventures. The historic downtown is brimming with indie coffee shops, breweries and murals, while nearby attractions like Lowell Observatory and Walnut Canyon bring science and history to life. Here are the top things to do:
See the stars at Lowell Observatory: The observatory's new Astronomy Discover Center has a 40,000 square feet center of interactive exhibits, a rooftop observatory with heated seats and the Lowell Universe Theater with a massive LED screen for immersive sky shows. Kids can explore the Orbits Curiosity Zone, while adults enjoy the Planet X Café and the Starry Skies gift shop. Located just a few hundred yards from the original Lowell Observatory visitor center, it builds on the legacy of discoveries like Pluto, while offering a modern, hands-on experience connected to real scientific research.
For more planetariums around Arizona check out our guide.
Grab a bite at Joejoebobs: Joejoebob's has become Flagstaff's main lunch spot since it opened its doors. Opened by Atmosphere Kitchen executive chef Joe Rodger, he is turning heads with its chef-inspired sandwiches and small plates. Using local ingredients and made entirely in-house, the menu features creative daily specials like Cola braised pork belly with blue cheese kale slaw or Fripper's bologna with Cheddar, romaine, and Dijonnaise. The rotating offerings keep things fresh, and you can check out what's new each day on
Ride the Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Gondola: You don't need to go hiking to experience breathtaking views. Instead, the Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Gondola takes you on a ride to the summit of the San Francisco Peaks, elevating visitors to over 11,500 feet. From this vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of Coconino National Forest, the red rocks of Sedona and, on clear days, even the Grand Canyon. Each gondola cabin comfortably seats up to six passengers, making it an ideal activity for families and small groups. The ride lasts about 15 minutes each way.
Prescott was founded in 1864 and served as the original territorial capital before Phoenix took the title. Steeped in Old West heritage, it's known for its well-preserved Victorian homes, Whiskey Row saloons and storied courthouse plaza. With its charming downtown, cool pine forests and seasonal events like the World's Oldest Rodeo, Prescott offers a perfect blend of nature, history and small-town vibes. Here are the top things to do:
Browse the Western Art Show and Sale: Prescott's Memorial Day tradition returns May 24-26 with the 51st annual Phippen Museum Western Art Show & Sale at Courthouse Plaza. This free, open-air event showcases Western art, quick draw challenges, live auctions and kid-friendly art tents. Enjoy live demos from over 100 artists, with pieces in oil, watercolor, sculpture and more.
Watson Lake moonlight kayaking: Have you ever kayaked under the stars? Moonlight kayaking at Watson Lake offers a serene experience, allowing paddlers to glide across calm waters under the glow of the moon. Born To Be Wild Adventures provides guided moonlight kayaking tours this summer on Watson Lake. These tours offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the lake's beauty in a tranquil nighttime setting.
Eat at the Palace Saloon: Step through the swinging saloon doors of The Palace Restaurant and Saloon and you're instantly transported to the Wild West. Established in 1877, it's the oldest bar and business in the state, once frequented by legends like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. The meticulously restored interior boasts a 24-foot hand-carved Brunswick bar, heroically saved from the Great Fire of 1900 by patrons who carried it to safety mid-blaze. With staff donning period costumes, walls adorned with historic photos, and tales of ghostly apparitions.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Memorial Day weekend 2025: Coolest Arizona getaways
