
A group enjoys a Pink Jeep tour in Sedona, Ariz. (Gillfoto/CC BY-SA 4.0).
Discover 15 ways to enjoy a spring break staycation in Arizona, from family-friendly activities to top places to eat in central, northern, and southern Arizona.
With spring break just around the corner, the travel bug is in the air. But travel doesn’t have to mean flying hundreds of miles away. One of the best things about living in Arizona is its incredible variety of landscapes, climates, and places to explore. So why not skip the plane ride and enjoy a staycation right here at home?
Whether you’re staycationing with a partner, family, friends, your furry friend, or just treating yourself, Arizona has a spot for everyone. Check them out!
Central Arizona
Arizona Boardwalk
Head to the Arizona Boardwalk for a day of family fun! With nine unique attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the largest aquarium in the Southwest at OdySea Aquarium, watch butterflies emerge from their chrysalises at Butterfly Wonderland, experience the extraordinary at the UFO Experience, uncover the unbelievable at Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and so much more!
When you’re ready for a break, grab a bite to eat right on the boardwalk. Options include classic burgers and American food at Johnny Rockets and dinosaur-themed meals at Pangaea Dinosaur Grill. To top off a great day, grab a famous ice cream sandwich from Frozen Penguin or fill up on goodies from the Sugar Drop Candy Shop.
The Fairmont Princess
Soak up the sun with a day at The Fairmont Princess! Whether you reserve a cabana or daybed or just enjoy one of the resort’s stunning pools through Resort Pass, you’re in for a day of pure relaxation. With six gorgeous pools to choose from—featuring everything from water slides to cozy cabanas and poolside drinks and bites—it’s the perfect way to unwind.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the pools. The Fairmont Princess is also a food lover’s dream. Treat yourself to a perfectly cooked steak at Bourbon Steak Scottsdale, savor top-rated Mexican dishes at La Hacienda, enjoy vibrant Latin American flavors at Toro Scottsdale, or indulge in fresh farm-to-table dining at Ironwood American Kitchen. And don’t forget to top off your day with a handcrafted cocktail at The Plaza Bar—because you deserve it.
Phoenix Zoo
It’s hard to top a day at the zoo. Seriously, where else can you ride a camel and snap a selfie with a giraffe in the same afternoon? And if you’re ready to “go bananas,” you’re in for a treat—the Phoenix Zoo is the ONLY zoo in the US with an open monkey exhibit. That’s right! You can walk through the squirrel monkey habitat as the playful little monkeys scamper through bushes and trees all around you.
The zoo also features four different trails to explore:
- Africa Trail: See some of the most iconic animals from across the globe.
- Arizona Trail: Discover the wildlife and plants native to Arizona.
- Tropics Trail: Take a journey through the lush Forest of Uco.
- Children’s Trail: Get up close and personal with smaller animals, perfect for little explorers.
When it’s time to refuel, you’ve got plenty of great dining options nearby. Grab a perfect pizza from Pitch, a custom burger from Burger Theory, or some finger-licking BBQ from Honey Bear’s.

Large male lion sunbathes at the Phoenix Zoo in Phoenix, Ariz., (Noah Grezlak svbtext/CC0).
Tempe Town Lake
Just because Arizona isn’t on the ocean doesn’t mean you can’t have a beach day! In fact, you can do exactly that—and so much more. Head to Tempe Town Lake for a day of outdoor fun with a beachy vibe. Start your day with a bike ride, walk, or rollerblade along the over five miles of scenic paths. Play a game of sand volleyball, enjoy a picnic, or hit the water for some boating adventures. Tempe Town Lake offers a variety of boat rentals, including donut boats, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, pontoon boats, pedal boats, and electric boats.
Depending on the time of year, you might also catch one of the many exciting festivals held at Tempe Town Lake. Be sure to check the event calendar for what’s happening during your visit!
But the fun doesn’t end there. After your time at the lake, head to downtown Tempe for some amazing dining options. Try a famous Cornish pasty at Cornish Pasty Co, sip on your drink of choice (there’s something for everyone!) while playing board games at Snakes and Lattes, or enjoy live music and great food at Culinary Dropout.
Explore the Superstition Mountains
Just 40 miles outside of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains rise 6,000 feet above the Sonoran Desert, offering the perfect staycation escape. Spending a day here feels like stepping into another world!
Whether you’re into hiking, biking, horseback riding, or spending time on the water, there’s something for everyone. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore the trails in Superstition Mountain, Lost Dutchman State Park, and Tonto National Forest. If you’re more in the mood for a scenic drive, take the Apache Trail, a 40-mile route with beautiful views of canyons, cliff dwellings, bright blue lakes, and vibrant desert flora.
Want to take a step back in time? Visit Goldfield Ghost Town in Apache Junction. Stroll down its historic main street, tour an old gold mine, pan for gold, watch an old-west-style gunfight, and so much more.
After a day of adventure, head to nearby Tortilla Flat, a former stagecoach stop. Enjoy a signature meal at the Tortilla Flat Saloon and Restaurant, where favorites like “Killer Chili,” “The Prospector,” and backyard-style BBQ are sure to hit the spot.

The popular restaurant Tortilla Flat Saloon located in Apache Junction, Ariz. (Tortilla Flat Saloon/Facebook)
Northern Arizona
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the seven wonders of the world—and it’s right here in our state! Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, every trip feels magical and unique. Spanning 277 miles from end to end, the Grand Canyon is carved by the winding Colorado River, creating a truly unbelievable landscape.
With its vast size and stunning beauty, there are plenty of ways to experience the Grand Canyon, depending on what you’re looking for. For the classic experience, head to the South Rim, where you’ll find iconic panoramic views and popular sightseeing spots. If you’re after something more interactive, hop on the Grand Canyon Railway. This scenic ride takes you from Williams to the South Rim, letting you skip the hassle of parking.
The North Rim, closed during early spring, reopens in May and offers a quieter, more rugged vibe. For those craving adventure, exploring the Canyon floor is a must. Popular trails include the Bright Angel Trail, a challenging, two-day round trip, and the South Kaibab Trail, a slightly shorter trek. If you prefer something you can do in one day, try descending the Bright Angel Trail to Indian Garden or Plateau Point.
Still seeking thrills? Consider white-water rafting, a helicopter tour, a mule ride, or mountain biking. If there’s one thing the Grand Canyon guarantees, it’s adventure.
Fuel your day with an espresso from Canyon Adventures Bike Tours and Cafe, where you can also grab breakfast or lunch. After a full day of exploring, unwind with Southwestern cuisine and a frosty Arizona beer at Yavapai Tavern. For more dining options, check here.

The Grand Canyon at dawn in Ariz. (Murray Foubister/CC BY-SA 2.0)
Bearizona
Make a stop at Bearizona for a zoo day—right from the comfort of your car. That’s right, you can enjoy all the excitement of a zoo while keeping your road trip playlist going. Bearizona offers a drive-thru experience where you can observe animals like bears, wolves, sheep, bison, and more in their natural habitat.
For even more up-close encounters, check out Bearizona’s walk-thru area, VIP experiences, and animal encounters.
After all the excitement, grab a meal at the Canyonlands-themed restaurant. Designed with canyon walls and ancient ruins, the restaurant also features incredible views of the jaguar exhibit, letting you enjoy a delicious lunch with some wild and unforgettable company.
Pink Jeep Tours
Cruise through Arizona in a hot-pink jeep and soak in sweeping views of the state. Climb legendary trails, explore backcountry canyons and deep ravines, or follow historic wagon trails—and even chase after vortexes. Pink Jeep Tours offers a fun and interactive way to experience Arizona’s stunning and diverse landscapes.
Tour locations include Sedona, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon, with a variety of adventures to choose from. Options range in length, location, and intensity, so there’s something for every kind of explorer, whether you’re looking for something extreme and heart-pumping or something a little more serene and low-key.
Lowell Observatory
Discover new worlds at Flagstaff’s legendary Lowell Observatory. Founded in 1894 by Percival Lowell, this iconic site remains an exceptional hub for astronomical research and public education. As the world’s first International Dark Sky City, Flagstaff offers the perfect setting for groundbreaking research and incredible stargazing opportunities.
If you’re visiting during the day, Lowell’s General Admission provides all-day access to a variety of fascinating exhibits. Explore the Orbits Curiosity Zone, a kid-friendly exhibit hall for budding scientists, and the Origins Exhibit, which delves into the beginnings of the universe. Don’t miss the Stardust Lab Astronomy Gallery, an interactive experience that helps you discover your place in the cosmos, or the Diverse Universe Wall, which celebrates individuals who’ve made vital contributions to STEM fields.
While you’re there, you can also attend a show, book a private stargazing tour, take an astronomy course, and more!
On your way in or out of Flagstaff, be sure to grab a bite at one of the local favorites: MartAnne’s for burritos, Satchmo’s for barbecue, Lumberyard for burgers, or Pizzicletta for pizza.
Antelope Canyon
Visit Antelope Canyon to marvel at its stunning slot canyons and intricate sandstone formations. Since the slot canyons are located on Navajo Nation land, a bit of planning is required before your trip—a permit and a guided tour are both necessary, but securing them is easy. Consider Antelope Canyon Tours, a Navajo-owned and operated company offering tours of Upper Antelope Canyon as well as other stunning spots in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, located nearby.
While you’re in the area, don’t miss Horseshoe Bend, a breathtaking horseshoe-shaped curve in the Colorado River. These iconic landmarks will leave you in awe of the wonderful beauty and diversity of our world.
Both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are near Page, a lively small town in Northern Arizona. If you’re looking to grab a bite, check out Grand Canyon Brewing and Distillery, The Barnyard (seasonally closed January–February), or Big John’s Texas BBQ (closed in January).

The beautiful slot canyons in Antelope Canyon located in Navajo Nation land, Ariz. (King of Hearts/CC BY-SA 4.0).
Southern Arizona
Copper Queen Mine Tour
Brush up on your Arizona history with a visit to Copper Queen Mine, located in Bisbee, a copper mining town since the late 1870s. Although the Bisbee underground mines closed in 1975, Mayor Chuck Eads, along with others, ensured that the town’s rich history would live on. The Queen Mine Tour officially opened on February 1, 1976, and has been a favorite ever since.
On this tour, you’ll gear up with a fashionable hard hat, miner’s headlamp, and safety vest before descending 1,500 feet into the mine. Led by passionate and knowledgeable guides, the tour lasts about an hour and offers a glimpse into Bisbee’s mining past.
After your time underground, explore the unique charm of Bisbee’s downtown. The area is filled with eclectic shops, galleries, and restaurants. For a bite to eat, check out Cafe Cornucopia for fresh salads, soups, and bread, Patisserie Jacqui for delectable pastries, Screaming Banshee for pizza, or Cafe Roka for upscale dining.
Tombstone
History class is still in session! After your visit to Copper Queen Mine, head to Tombstone and step back into the unruly and untamed 1800s. Known as the town “too tough to die,” Tombstone was home to infamous figures like Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the Clanton family. Walk the same streets they did over 140 years ago and immerse yourself in the Wild West.
Start your visit at the O.K. Corral, where daily reenactments bring the famous shootout to life. Then, check out the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park for even more historical reenactments, gold panning, and a round of mini golf. Don’t miss the original sheriff’s office or the iconic Boothill Graveyard, where you can learn about the town’s storied past.
And since even cowboys have to eat, Tombstone offers plenty of restaurants, dessert spots, and saloons. Some local favorites include Big Nose Kate’s Saloon and Restaurant, Puny John’s BBQ (voted one of Arizona’s 10 best BBQ places), and The Longhorn Restaurant.

White horses lead a carriage through the main street of Tombstone, Ariz. (Packbj/CC BY-SA 4.0).
Sabino Canyon
Lace up your hiking boots and head to Sabino Canyon for an epic outdoor adventure. Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains, Sabino Canyon offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Tucson life. Its paved paths wind through the majestic mountains, welcoming walkers and joggers year-round. Cyclists are also welcome but are limited to riding before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
For those who prefer to venture off the “paved” path, Sabino Canyon features over 30 miles of stunning trails. A favorite among hikers is the Bear Canyon Trail, which leads to Seven Falls—a waterfall with pristine pools at its base.
If you’re in the mood for a more relaxing experience, hop on the Sabino Canyon Crawler, an emission-free shuttle that gives a narrated tour of the canyon’s natural beauty.
Be sure to pack your picnic basket as Sabino Canyon has plenty of great picnic spots, including the Visitor Center, Lower Sabino Canyon, Sabino Dam East, Cactus Picnic Area, and Bear Canyon Overlook.
Arizona Zipline Adventures
Fly high over the Sonoran Desert with Arizona Zipline Adventures, located just one hour outside of Tucson. Since opening nearly 10 years ago, they’ve been committed to enriching the community and promoting the exploration of the region. What better way to do that than by helping people step out of their comfort zones and into the sky?
They offer two main tours: the Zipline EcoTour and the Sunset Zipline (note: the Sunset tour is closed during the winter). Each tour features five ziplines, ranging from 400 to 1,500 feet, allowing you to experience the desert from a new perspective each time.
After soaring through the sky, grab a bite at their Peppersauce Kitchen, known for its build-your-own burgers and house-made sauces.

Woman enjoys a zipline ride through the desert at Arizona Zipline Adventures in Tuscon, Ariz. (Arizona Zipline Adventures/Facebook)
Golf N’ Stuff
Is spring break really spring break if you don’t go mini golfing? Head to Tucson’s beloved Golf N’ Stuff for a day filled with family fun, games, and a healthy dose of competition. Golf N’ Stuff offers two 18-hole miniature golf courses, Indy Go Karts, an arcade with over 100 games, batting cages, bumper boats, laser tag, and more! In other words, there’s something for everyone in the family.
If you’re visiting on a Thursday, you’ll get discounted wristbands and can enjoy Family Fun Night from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a variety of deals like the $18.50 Mini Park Pass or the $29.50 Two-Hour Unlimited Wristband.
While you’re there, check out some nearby restaurants: Zio Peppe, Zinburger, and Pinnacle Peak, a famous steakhouse known for its Western-themed atmosphere and cowboy-inspired dining experience.
This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
READ MORE: 15 unique things to do in Sedona

Explore Hank Willis Thomas’ largest Southwest exhibition at U of A
Explore Hank Willis Thomas' exhibition "LOVERULES" at the University of Arizona Museum of Art. It features over 90 conceptual artworks by the...

Weird & wacky Arizona festivals happening in 2025
Aside from the typical food, beverage, and music events, there are plenty of weird and wacky Arizona festivals to look forward to in 2025. Calling...

A 6-stop tour of Arizona’s literary hotspots
Explore Arizona’s six most bookish spots, including poetry slams, book bars, creative centers, a historic literary landmark, and a...

Meet your person IRL at Tucson’s speed dating & singles mixers
In the world of swiping right, meeting others can be challenging. Fortunately, Tucson offers speed dating and singles mixers so you can meet your...