Prescott Valley, Arizona: 10 Best Short Day Trips Nearby
10 Fun Road Trips from Prescott Valley, Arizona for Easy Day Trips and Nearby Getaways
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| Cruise from Prescott Valley into Sedona red rocks, stand above a vast canyon, spot Meteor Crater, and unwind by Lake Havasu for an easy Arizona escape. |
If you’re based in Prescott Valley, Arizona and itching for a quick escape, you’re in a great spot. This Yavapai County town is close enough to some of the Southwest’s biggest sights that a road trip from Prescott Valley can turn an ordinary day into something memorable. Whether you want red rocks, desert views, mountain air, or a little city fun, there are plenty of things to do near Prescott Valley, AZ without staying in Yavapai County.
I’ve always loved day trips like these because they feel like hitting the reset button without needing to pack for a full vacation. Just grab snacks, fill the tank, and go. Below are 10 great out-of-county day trips that make perfect quick escapes, easy weekend trip ideas, and scenic nearby getaways.
1. Sedona Red Rock Scenic Drive and Chapel of the Holy Cross, Coconino County
Sedona is one of those places that almost doesn’t look real. The red rock views feel painted, especially when the sun hits them in the morning or late afternoon. For travelers looking for a classic day trip from Prescott Valley, this one is hard to beat.
Start with a scenic drive through town, then stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Built right into the rocks, it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Arizona. After that, take a short walk at Bell Rock or simply browse the shops and cafés.
- Why go: Famous red rocks, easy sightseeing, great photo spots
- Drive time: About 1.5 to 2 hours one way
- Best for: Couples, first-time Arizona visitors, scenic road trip fans
If you want a nearby getaway that feels special without being too far, Sedona is like Arizona showing off a little.
2. Walnut Canyon National Monument, Coconino County
Want something a little different? Head toward Flagstaff and visit Walnut Canyon National Monument. This spot gives you a close look at cliff dwellings built by Indigenous people long ago, and it’s a great mix of history and nature.
The Island Trail is the main draw here, with a loop that takes you down into the canyon past the stone homes tucked into the cliffs. It’s not a huge all-day hike, which makes it perfect for travelers who want adventure without going overboard.
- Why go: Cliff dwellings, canyon views, history
- Drive time: About 2 hours one way
- Best for: Families, history lovers, light hikers
It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and imagine what life looked like here centuries ago.
3. Meteor Crater, Coconino County
If you’ve ever wanted to see something truly unusual on a road trip near Prescott Valley, Meteor Crater is a great pick. This giant impact site is one of the best-preserved meteor craters in the world, and seeing it in person really puts things into perspective.
Pictures don’t fully show the scale. It’s massive, wide, and surprisingly dramatic. The visitor center adds a lot too, with exhibits about space, science, and the crater’s history.
- Why go: One-of-a-kind natural attraction, family-friendly stop, educational fun
- Drive time: Around 2.5 hours one way
- Best for: Families, science fans, curious travelers
Think of it as a day trip with a little outer space energy mixed in.
4. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Gila County
For a pretty and peaceful escape, head to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. This natural bridge is believed to be the largest travertine bridge in the world, and it’s one of those spots that feels tucked away from everything.
You’ll find viewpoints, picnic areas, and trails that let you see the bridge from different angles. Depending on the season, there may be water flowing below, which makes the whole place even more impressive.
- Why go: Unique rock formation, short hikes, relaxing scenery
- Drive time: About 2 hours one way
- Best for: Nature lovers, couples, photographers
If your ideal weekend trip means less noise and more fresh air, put this one high on your list.
5. Roosevelt Lake Scenic Day Trip, Gila County
Sometimes the best nearby getaway is just water, open sky, and room to breathe. Roosevelt Lake offers exactly that. It’s one of Arizona’s biggest lakes, and it makes a nice change from the usual desert stop.
You can spend the day fishing, boating, picnicking, or simply enjoying the views. There are also scenic pull-offs in the area, so even a casual drive works well here. On a warm day, this kind of trip can feel like a mini vacation.
- Why go: Lake views, fishing, boating, laid-back vibe
- Drive time: About 2.5 hours one way
- Best for: Families, anglers, anyone wanting a slower pace
Bring a cooler and make a day of it. Honestly, these are often the trips people remember most.
6. Desert Botanical Garden, Maricopa County
If you’re heading into the Phoenix area, the Desert Botanical Garden is a fantastic stop. It makes the desert feel colorful, creative, and full of life. Even people who think plants sound boring usually end up loving this place.
The paths are easy to walk, and the displays help you understand the Sonoran Desert in a fun way. You’ll see giant saguaros, blooming cacti depending on the season, and art mixed into the landscape.
- Why go: Beautiful desert plants, easy paths, relaxing atmosphere
- Drive time: Around 2 hours one way
- Best for: Casual explorers, photographers, multigenerational groups
It’s a simple day trip, but sometimes simple is exactly what you want.
7. Old Town Scottsdale, Maricopa County
Looking for something with shops, food, and a lively feel? Old Town Scottsdale is a fun pick for a Prescott Valley weekend trip or easy day trip. It blends Southwestern style with modern restaurants, galleries, and walkable streets.
You can browse local art, stop for lunch, grab dessert, and poke around the boutiques. It’s especially nice if your group wants a little variety instead of one single attraction.
- Why go: Shopping, dining, art galleries, people-watching
- Drive time: About 2 hours one way
- Best for: Friends’ outings, couples, flexible day trippers
And let’s be real: sometimes a road trip is really just an excuse to eat somewhere new.
8. London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, Mohave County
Yes, the London Bridge in Arizona is real, and yes, it’s worth seeing at least once. Located in Lake Havasu City, this attraction is part landmark, part conversation starter, and part waterfront hangout.
You can walk across the bridge, explore the channel area, rent a boat, or relax by the water. It’s a fun choice if you want your nearby getaway to feel a bit unexpected.
- Why go: Famous landmark, waterfront setting, easy walking area
- Drive time: About 3 hours one way
- Best for: Families, couples, quirky road trip fans
It’s one of those places where someone in the car usually says, “Wait, how did this end up here?”
9. Grand Canyon West Skywalk, Mohave County
If you’re after a bigger adventure, Grand Canyon West Skywalk is a memorable day trip option. This glass bridge extends out over the canyon, giving visitors a thrilling view straight down.
It’s not the national park side of the Grand Canyon, so the experience feels different, but the views are still dramatic and unforgettable. If you enjoy bucket-list style stops, this one fits the bill.
- Why go: Canyon views, glass skywalk, major wow factor
- Drive time: Roughly 3.5 hours one way
- Best for: Adventurous travelers, first-time visitors, photo lovers
This is a longer haul, but for some people, that’s the fun of the road trip. A little more windshield time, a lot more payoff.
10. Quartzsite Rock Shops and Desert Finds, La Paz County
For something different, head to Quartzsite in La Paz County. This desert town is famous for gem shows, rock shops, and a one-of-a-kind roadside feel. It’s a place with personality, which makes it a fun change from parks and scenic drives.
If you like digging through unusual finds, browsing local vendors, or just seeing a town that feels totally unlike the norm, Quartzsite delivers. Winter is especially lively, but you can still enjoy the area year-round.
- Why go: Rock and gem shopping, quirky desert culture, unique stop
- Drive time: About 3 hours one way
- Best for: Treasure hunters, curious travelers, repeat Arizona visitors
Not every day trip needs to be polished. Some are better when they’re a little dusty, a little odd, and full of stories.
Tips for Planning Your Prescott Valley, AZ Day Trips
Before you head out on any of these day trips from Prescott Valley, Arizona, a little planning goes a long way.
- Bring extra water, especially in warmer months
- Check hours before you go since some attractions change by season
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike or walk scenic trails
- Start early for the best light, cooler weather, and smaller crowds
- Keep gas topped off on longer desert routes
Arizona road trips can look short on a map, but the open landscape has a way of stretching things out. In a good way, of course.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Prescott Valley
One of the best things about living in or visiting Prescott Valley, AZ is how many quick escapes are within reach. From Sedona’s red rocks to a desert lake, from a famous bridge to botanical gardens, there’s no shortage of things to do near Prescott Valley when you’re ready for a change of scenery.
So, which trip sounds best to you? A scenic road trip, a history stop, a nature-filled day, or a fun weekend trip with food and shopping? No matter your style, these out-of-county adventures make it easy to explore more of Arizona.
If you found this list helpful, share it with friends who love Arizona travel and leave a comment with your favorite Prescott Valley day trip idea. I’d love to hear which nearby getaway you’d pick first.
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