Feeling like taking off for a weekend road trip? If you want to see some amazing little places right here in Arizona that will wow you and urge you to explore our state just a little bit more, you’re going to love this road trip! We’ve designed it so that you can easily drive on one gas tank through a few iconic northern Arizona features and hitting a few hidden gems along the way. These destinations make up some of the best road trips in Arizona.

The entire trip is 225 miles and the total driving time will take you five and a half hours but definitely make sure you set aside time to explore each place. You may want to consider spending the night at stop number five or seven but that’s up to you! Here’s a link to the driving route. Enjoy!

1. Museum of Northern Arizona

What better way to start up a road trip in northern Arizona than by visiting the Museum of Northern Arizona? This place has a variety of exhibits (including five permanent exhibits) that illustrate life in the northern portion of our state. You’ll find art and artifacts around the beautiful museum campus that also has a nature trail.

2. Lockett Meadow

Our next stop is a Flagstaff favorite, especially in the fall season. Lockett Meadow gives you a fantastic view of the Peaks but keep in mind it is typically closed during the winter season. Check the Forest Service website for details.

3. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Part of the San Francisco volcanic field, this volcano came alive just 1,000 years ago. The earth trembled and hot ash, cinders, and gases spread over the area. A walk through here today will introduce you to some incredibly delicate landscapes that are beautiful and rich with life. Details about fees for the park can be found at

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4. Wupatki National Monument

Just down the road from Sunset Crater sits a collection of ancient pueblos that are about a century younger than the volcano at Sunset Crater. They are quite striking with their red bricks standing against a bright blue sky, plus you’ll get a sense of what life may have been like all those centuries ago when you visit.

5. Cameron Trading Post

Chances are unless you are from the area, you probably haven’t heard of this tiny town on the Navajo Nation. The trading post here has been operating since 1916 and you’ll find a large collection of art, crafts, food, and other goods being sold here. You can even stop for an overnight stay in their hotel or RV park.

6. Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park

Whoa, that is some view, isn’t it? This is were the Little Colorado River comes to the end of its voyage to the much larger Colorado River and it is one dramatic view. You can find details about fees and hours of operation at the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation website.

7. Grand Canyon

If you’re going to be traveling through northern Arizona and don’t stop at the Grand Canyon at least once, you might as well have not even gone at all. Welcome to our jewel! Enjoy visiting the historic buildings, the scenic views, and perhaps even go for a walk or hike while you’re here. Details for visiting can be found at the National Park website.

8. Flintstones Bedrock City

If you’re looking for a reminder of your childhood that is inexpensive, then a visit to Flintstones Bedrock City in Valle is a stop you won’t want to miss. The entrance fee is inexpensive (just $5 per person) and you’ll get a chance to see what life for Fred and Wilma may have been like.

9. Chapel of the Holy Dove

Its easy to miss this tiny wooden chapel sitting on the side of the road but it’s a great little find sitting within view of the peaks. The interdenominational chapel easily fits a dozen or so people inside and has one fantastic view!

10. Lowell Observatory

The last destination will take you to the stars...sort of. Lowell Observatory earned its place in the history books after astronomer Clyde Tombaugh discovered the dwarf planet Pluto and was named one of the most important places in the world by TIME Magazine. In addition to the old telescopes and working campus, you’ll find multiple exhibits and a nature walk that will help you to understand how vast our galaxy is.

Have you ever visited any of these attractions in Arizona? Which one of the best road trips in Arizona is your favorite? Shout it out in the comments below!

Want to find more fantastic excursions you can take around Arizona? If discovering remnants of the Old West is your thing, you may be interested in reading A Visit To These 13 Saloons In Arizona Will Make You Feel Like You’ve Traveled Back In Time.