One of the best parts about staying in the Phoenix or Scottsdale area is how close you are to everything worth seeing in Arizona. You can wake up surrounded by desert palms, hit red rocks by lunch, and be in a mountain town before dinner. If you plan it right, you can see Sedona, Jerome, and Prescott all in a single unforgettable weekend.
Start early and drive north on the 17. Within two hours, the desert changes into something almost unreal. The red cliffs of Sedona rise up like ancient cathedrals, glowing against the morning light.
Sedona is more than a photo stop. You can hike Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock Trail, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and then grab a bite at The Hudson or Hideaway House, both with amazing views. If you’re into the spiritual side, there are plenty of vortex sites and crystal shops to explore. Whether or not you believe in the energy of Sedona, it’s hard to deny the peace it gives you.
From Sedona, it’s a short but scenic drive to Jerome, one of the most interesting little towns in the state. Once a booming copper mining community, Jerome is now a quirky artist haven clinging to the side of Cleopatra Hill. The drive alone is worth it, with winding roads and endless views of the Verde Valley below.
In town, stop at The Haunted Hamburger for lunch and enjoy the balcony view. Then wander through the art galleries, antique stores, and old mining sites that tell stories of boom and bust. Jerome’s ghost tours are a hit with visitors too, especially at sunset when the town starts to glow and the wind whistles through the old buildings.
Keep heading west and you’ll reach Prescott, a place that feels like stepping back in time in the best way. The historic downtown square is filled with old brick buildings, local shops, and saloons that have been serving travelers for over a century. Grab a drink at The Palace, Arizona’s oldest frontier bar, and walk off your meal with a stroll around Courthouse Plaza.
If you stay overnight, check into one of the boutique hotels nearby or find a cozy bed and breakfast tucked in the pines. Prescott’s weather is cooler than the Valley, which makes it a refreshing finish to your trip.
When you make your way back to Phoenix or Scottsdale, you’ll have seen three sides of Arizona: the red desert, the mountain town, and the pine-filled highlands. Each one offers its own flavor of history, beauty, and charm.If you’re planning your Arizona adventure, visit our digital magazine at ExploreDinePlay.com for maps, routes, and insider tips that make your trip smoother and more fun.
