Goodyear, Arizona: 10 Best Short Day Trips Nearby
10 Easy Road Trips from Goodyear, Arizona for a Fun Day Out
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| From cactus-lined trails and lake paddles to red rock views and old Arizona towns, these easy day trips from Goodyear turn a simple drive into a memorable escape. |
Living in or visiting Goodyear, Arizona makes quick escapes feel easy. One of the best things about this part of the Valley is that you can hop in the car, head out for a few hours, and land somewhere totally different. If you're searching for things to do near Goodyear, AZ that take you beyond Maricopa County, these short road trip ideas are a great place to start.
From desert lakes and old mining towns to giant cactus forests and red rock views, these day trips from Goodyear offer a little bit of everything. Some are perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Others can turn into a full weekend trip if you want to slow down and stay awhile. Either way, each nearby getaway on this list is outside Maricopa County and worth the drive.
1. Wander the Desert Botanical Trail at Boyce Thompson Arboretum
County: Pinal County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 1 hour 30 minutes
If you want an easy first pick, Boyce Thompson Arboretum near Superior is hard to beat. This place is full of desert plants, shady paths, and wide-open mountain views. It feels like a calm outdoor classroom, but in the best way.
I always think spots like this are great when you want nature without a brutal hike. You can stroll at your own pace, snap photos of towering cacti, and still be back in Goodyear by dinner. In spring, the blooms can be a real treat.
- Great for families and casual walkers
- Nice photo stops along the trails
- Easy to pair with a stop in Superior
2. Step Back in Time in Globe
County: Gila County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 2 hours
Globe has that old Arizona feel many travelers love. Think historic buildings, local shops, and mining-town character. It’s the kind of place where a simple walk downtown can turn into a fun little adventure.
If you enjoy towns with stories to tell, Globe makes a solid day trip from Goodyear, Arizona. Grab lunch, browse antique shops, and soak up the slower pace. It’s like opening a book and walking right into one of the chapters.
- Historic downtown charm
- Good pick for shopping and local dining
- Works well for a laid-back nearby getaway
3. Enjoy Lake Time at Watson Lake in Prescott
County: Yavapai County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 2 hours
Need a break from the flat desert scene? Watson Lake in Prescott brings giant granite boulders, calm water, and cooler air. The views here almost look painted, especially around sunset.
This is a fun option if your ideal road trip includes a picnic, kayaking, or a scenic walk. The rock formations give the place a totally different feel from Goodyear. Honestly, it’s one of those spots that makes you wonder, “Wait, this is still Arizona?”
- Pretty hiking and walking trails
- Kayaking available in the area
- One of the most scenic quick escapes near Goodyear
4. Visit the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City
County: La Paz County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 3 hours
Yes, the London Bridge in Arizona is real, and yes, it’s worth seeing at least once. Lake Havasu City offers waterfront views, boat energy, and a fun change of pace from the Phoenix area.
If you want a quirky and memorable road trip from Goodyear, this one checks the box. It’s part sightseeing stop, part mini vacation. Walk the bridge, grab a bite by the water, and enjoy a destination that feels a bit unexpected.
- Iconic Arizona attraction
- Good for couples, families, or friend groups
- Easy to turn into a sunny weekend trip
5. Hike Among the Giants at Saguaro National Park
County: Pima County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 2 hours 30 minutes
If you picture Arizona as a land of giant cacti and glowing sunsets, Saguaro National Park near Tucson delivers exactly that. These massive saguaros are the stars of the show, and they’re even more impressive in person.
It’s a classic day trip near Goodyear, AZ for anyone who loves desert beauty. Go early if temperatures are high, bring water, and enjoy a hike or scenic drive. The whole area feels like a postcard come to life.
- Classic Sonoran Desert scenery
- Several trail options for different skill levels
- Excellent spot for sunrise or sunset photos
6. Explore the Wild West Feel of Tombstone
County: Cochise County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 3 hours 30 minutes
Tombstone is touristy, sure, but it’s also a lot of fun. If you’ve ever wanted to see a real Old West town with wooden sidewalks, old saloons, and cowboy history, this is the place.
This is one of those nearby getaways where you lean into the theme and enjoy the ride. Watch a reenactment, visit historic sites, and have fun with it. Sometimes the best trips are the ones that don’t take themselves too seriously.
- One of Arizona’s most famous historic towns
- Fun for history fans and first-time visitors
- Best for a full-day outing or overnight stay
7. Cool Off at Slide Rock State Park
County: Coconino County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 2 hours 45 minutes
Want a different kind of Arizona day trip? Head to Slide Rock State Park near Sedona, where smooth red rocks and flowing water create a natural swimming area. It’s part playground, part beautiful canyon stop.
On a hot day, this place can feel like finding an ice-cold drink in the desert. Bring water shoes, pack snacks, and expect company, because this spot is popular for good reason. It’s one of the best weekend trip add-ons if you also want to see Sedona.
- Natural water slide experience
- Beautiful red rock surroundings
- Best during warmer months
8. See the Desert from Above at Picacho Peak State Park
County: Pinal County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Picacho Peak rises dramatically from the desert floor, and it’s hard to miss when driving between Phoenix and Tucson. But stopping there is even better than passing by. The park offers hiking, spring wildflowers, and amazing wide-open views.
If you like your day trips with a little challenge, this is a smart pick. Even if you don’t do the toughest trail, the scenery alone makes the drive worth it. In spring, the area can pop with color.
- Iconic desert mountain views
- Popular during wildflower season
- Good choice for active travelers
9. Explore Historic Jerome on the Mountainside
County: Yavapai County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 2 hours 30 minutes
Jerome is one of Arizona’s most interesting small towns. Built into the side of Cleopatra Hill, it mixes ghost-town history with art galleries, old buildings, and sweeping valley views.
Walking Jerome feels a bit like exploring a movie set, only with better coffee and real history. It’s compact, memorable, and perfect for travelers who like towns with personality. For a road trip from Goodyear, Arizona, it’s a strong pick.
- Historic mining town atmosphere
- Fun shops, food, and art stops
- Great paired with nearby scenic drives
10. Discover the Sand Dunes at Imperial Sand Dunes
County: Yuma County, AZ
Drive from Goodyear: About 2 hours 30 minutes
If you’re craving something dramatic and different, head west toward the Imperial Sand Dunes. These huge rolling dunes look almost unreal, like the desert decided to go extra for the day.
This makes a unique nearby getaway from Goodyear for sightseeing, photography, and off-road fun in designated areas. Sunset is especially beautiful, when the light softens and the dunes seem to change color by the minute.
- One of the most striking desert landscapes in the region
- Popular for photos and off-road recreation
- A memorable choice for adventurous travelers
Tips for Planning Your Goodyear, AZ Day Trips
Before you hit the road, a little planning goes a long way. Arizona day trips can be easy and fun, but desert travel comes with a few basics.
- Bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months
- Check park hours and weather before leaving
- Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes
- Fill up your gas tank before heading into more remote areas
- Start early if you want cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
One thing I’ve learned from Arizona drives is that the road itself is part of the fun. A quick snack stop, a scenic overlook, or a small-town café can end up being the part you remember most.
Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trips from Goodyear, Arizona
Whether you want desert hikes, cool mountain towns, lakeside views, or a little Wild West history, there are plenty of great things to do near Goodyear, Arizona without staying in Maricopa County. These short day trips and weekend trip ideas prove you don’t have to drive all day to find something new.
Which one sounds most like your kind of escape? A cactus-filled national park, a charming historic town, or a splashy stop at Slide Rock?
If you found this list helpful, share it with a friend who loves an easy Arizona road trip. And if you’ve visited any of these spots, leave a comment and share your favorite stop. I’d love to hear which nearby getaway you’d do again.
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