As a resident of Sun City or Sun City West, you are surrounded by the natural beauty of Arizona. From majestic mountains to vast desert landscapes, there is no shortage of exciting day trip destinations within easy commute. Here are eight top day trips, perfect for adventure-seekers, nature lovers and anyone looking to explore the Grand Canyon State.

1. Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Just a thirty-minute drive from Sun City and Sun City West, Lake Pleasant is a popular spot for boating, fishing and water sports. Enjoy a relaxing day on the lake or explore the surrounding desert landscapes on horseback or by ATV.

2. Saguaro National Park

Take a day trip to Tucson, Arizona to visit Saguaro National Park. Tucson is home to the nation’s largest cacti (saguaro cactus)—the universal symbol of the American west. It is a large, tree-sized cactus that has a lifespan of up to 250 years. It blooms from late May to July and is the Arizona state flower.

Hike and take in views of the beautiful desert, go biking, or head over to the Tucson Mountain District (West) for the largest petroglyph site in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. This site has over 200 prehistoric Native American petroglyphs, which were created about 550 to 1,550 years ago.

3. Jerome, Arizona

A town with the fun moniker of “Wickedest Town in the West”, Jerome, Arizona is located near the top of Cleopatra Hill between Prescott and Flagstaff. It is a historic copper mining town founded in 1876. It was once the fourth largest city in Arizona with the population peaking at around 15,000 in the 1920s.

Today, it is a thriving tourist town and artist hub that people across the world travel to in order to find work and a new way of life. Stop by the town yourself and pick up some fun mementos at a gift shop, book a ghost tour, or visit the Mine Museum.

4. Lake Havasu City, Arizona

You do not have to book a flight to experience European history—just head over to Lake Havasu City, the home of the famous London Bridge. Built in 1831 over the River Thames in London, the structure was dismantled and sold to the founder of Lake Havasu City, Robert McCulloch, in 1967. In fact, you can still see the strafing scars left by Nazi warplanes during WWII and the original steel lamps, which were made from the melted-down metal of Napoleon Bonaparte’s war cannons.

Outside of this piece of British history, Lake Havasu City is also a great destination for water sports and outdoor recreation. Rent a boat, go fishing or simply relax by the lake and catch up on some reading.

5. Wupatki National Monument

Just under three hours from Sun City and Sun City West, Wupatki National Monument is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers. Explore the ancient Native American ruins, hike through the scenic trails, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Consider going on the Crack-In-Rock ranger-led hike to visit the Ancestral Puebloan structures and view petroglyph panels (please note that this is a strenuous hike).

6. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Located near Camp Verde, Montezuma Castle National Monument is a stunning example of ancient cliff dwellings. Take a guided tour, explore the scenic trails, and learn about the history of the Sinagua people. For extra fun, plan a picnic along the shore of Beaver Creek.

Their Junior Ranger Program is a group of fun activities that focus on archeology and preservation in understanding our past and present—perfect for any grandkids that might be on the trip.

7. Tombstone, Arizona

Step back in time to the Wild West in Tombstone—Arizona's most famous ghost town (lovingly known as the “Town Too Tough to Die”). Take a stroll down Main Street, enjoy the live reenactments of the famous gunfight at the OK Corral, and learn about Tombstone’s history by taking a scenic ride on a stagecoach or trolley.

While you are there, you will also want to check out Boothill Graveyard, which is said to be the most famous Wild West cemetery in the world. It is the final resting place of many lawmen, outlaws, ranchers, and gamblers. Oh, and did you know that it is home to the World’s Largest Rose Bush?

8. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center

For something a little closer to home, head to the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center, nestled in the scenic Sonoran Desert. This wildlife sanctuary features beautiful trails and a variety of amazing animals, including majestic mountain lions, playful coyotes, and curious bobcats. Learn more about how they were rescued and how Arizona’s wildlife is being protected.

You can even stop by the award-winning golf course at Eagle Mountain Golf Club for a delicious lunch and round of golf.

Sun Canyon Bank: Your Partner In Adventure

At Sun Canyon Bank, we are proud to serve the communities of Sun City West and beyond. Whether you are planning a day trip or a longer adventure, we are here to help you achieve your financial goals and make the most of your Arizona lifestyle.