Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Glendale, AZ
Glendale sits northwest of Phoenix with access to Lake Pleasant, historic downtown, and the Thunderbird conservation area.
The Desert Fox and Lake Pleasant offer water sports in the desert.
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or browse all12 destinations near Glendale
Dragon Fly Cove
Prescott, AZ 86301
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.9 stars) · 1 hr 44 min from Glendale · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Javelina Rocks
Tucson, AZ 85748
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 49 min from Glendale · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Watson Lake Park
Prescott, AZ 86301
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 44 min from Glendale · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Canyon Lake Vista
Arizona 85219, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.8 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 11 min from Glendale
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Dobbins Lookout
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 5.5k+ visitors) · 48 min from Glendale · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Highlands Center for Natural History
Prescott, AZ 86303
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 41 min from Glendale · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Colossal Cave Mountain Park
Vail, AZ 85641
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.9k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 26 min from Glendale · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Jerome State Historic Park
Jerome, AZ 86331
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs from Glendale · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Apache Death Cave
Winslow, AZ 86047
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 39 min from Glendale · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Tuzigoot National Monument
Clarkdale, AZ 86324
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 53 min from Glendale · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Superstition Mountain - Lost Dutchman Museum
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.7k+ visitors) · 57 min from Glendale · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Out of Africa Wildlife Park
Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 5.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 30 min from Glendale · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Glendale, AZ?
The best day trips from Glendale include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Glendale?
Most great day trips from Glendale are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Glendale?
Many of the best day trips near Glendale are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Glendale?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Glendale, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Glendale?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Glendale make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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