5 Day Trips in Southeastern Arizona on a Budget
If you're feeling the crush of a busy schedule or the pinch of the economy, getting away for an extended vacation may not be in the cards at the moment. Gather the kids or round up your pals for a day trip and experience the beauty of Southern Arizona.
Here are some of the Best Day Trips in Southeastern Arizona:
1. Tombstone
Spend an afternoon in the Town Too Tough to Die. Walk along the wooden sidewalks and experience the Wild West in Tombstone. Walk where they fell in the historic town renowned for the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
Visit the original courthouse, saloon, theater, and cemetery, and watch reenactments of the shootout. Don't miss the stagecoach ride, a mine tour, or a ghost tour for a guided tour of history.
2. Saguaro National Park
Marvel at the majestic saguaro cacti that dot the landscape of this national park. The area covers two districts on either side of Tucson.
Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the park. Take in the landscape dotted with wildlife and native plants. Spend a little time learning about the culture and history of the native people who lived in the area.
3. Bisbee
Explore the charming and quirky town of Bisbee. This eclectic art colony was once a booming copper mining town.
Stroll through the colorful streets and admire the historic architecture, art galleries, shops, antique stores and cafes. For a real treat, be sure to schedule an Old Bisbee Ghost Tour, where the Ghost Hosts will guide you on a walking tour with the legends of haunted history of Old Bisbee.
4. Coronado National Monument
This beautiful spot commemorates the first European exploration of the American Southwest by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado and his expedition in 1540.
While you're there, check out the museum, visitor center, hiking trails, and take in the stunning views of the San Pedro River Valley and the Huachuca Mountains.
Learn the history and culture and keep get ready to spy some of the diverse wildlife and plants in the area.
5. Mount Lemmon
Escape the heat and enjoy the cool breeze at Mount Lemmon, the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson.
Drive the scenic Catalina Highway and be sure to stop to take in the view. There are picnic areas along the way, for a lovely al fresco snack. This is a great place for hike, bike, ski, or snowshoe on the trails that offer spectacular views of the valley below.
Be sure to check the weather before you go. This area can see large amounts of snowfall and travel may be restricted.