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By Huuk Team

Road trip from Phoenix to Tucson

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ITINERARY

2h 31m132 miles14 stops
1
Arizona Science Center
600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004-2303
Located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center has been a hub for science and discovery for the community and visitors. Featuring more than 300 hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, a range of interactive online science content, the state-of-the-art Dorrance Planetarium, and the five-story Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater– Arizona Science Center offers programs for all ages. For further details, please visit azscience.org.
2
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
9051 East Via De Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
3
Troon North Golf Club Monument Course
10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262-5662
The Monument Course, which opened in 1990, was conceived by legendary golfer Tom Weiskopf and Architect Jay Morrish. In 2007, the course underwent a major renovation project, led by Tom Weiskopf. An entirely new playing experience was created by exchanging its front nine holes with the front nine of its sibling course, the Pinnacle Course, and changing the sequence in which the holes are played. Hallmarks of the course include balance, variety and immaculate course conditions.
4
Makutu's Island
6919 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-1769
Makutu’s [Ma-coo-two’s] [means magic] Island was called Club Disney - is an evergreen lush, exciting indoor “island” with towering trees, climbs, mysterious caves, a "bungee jump", a zip track, an arcade, a café, a special toddler zone and so much more. Our admission price includes ALL DAY fun (and it is not a trampoline park or bounce jungle that you need to pay by the hour). Makutu's Island has no affiliation with Disney. Even though the structure and design were done by Disney, it is now re-themed as Makutu's Island with our cute characters that include the jaguar cub Makutu and his friends. It is a unique tropical jungle themed as a Regional Entertainment. The centerpiece of Makutu’s Island is a magnificent indoor tree. The tree is filled with tunnels, tubes, mole-holes, and slides. Our facility offers hours of fun and adventure.
5
Whirlwind Golf Club
5692 W North Loop Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5268
Whirlwind Golf Club is truly a unique southwest golf experience. The courses, clubhouse, and practice facilities are sensitively designed to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Gila River Indian Community. Named for the prominent design feature of the hand-woven basketry of the Authum tribe, Whirlwind is the work of golf course architect Gary Panks. His design weaves the spirit and legacy of this ancient land into a marvelous test of golf. The Devil's Claw course features sweeping elevation changes and dramatic bunkering. The Cattail course complements the Devil's Claw, but lends a whole new flavor to this 36-hole masterpiece, with its rolling fairways accented by striking water features and deep canyons. Whirlwind promises a dynamic golf experience marked by spectacular landscaping, unrivaled course conditions, and genuine customer service.
6
Escape the Room
3157 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5168
Escape The Room Chandler is the premier escape game experience in the Chandler area. With three unique rooms to play and the most technologically advanced puzzles, you will truly be tested to see if you and your friends can put together enough of the clues and escape the room!
7
Wild West Horse Adventures
31402 N 136th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Experience the Sonoran Desert the way it was intended, on horseback. We offer private trail rides in the Sonoran Preserve. They are maintained to provide the most exceptional experience that you'll remember for a lifetime. Let's hit the trails!
8
Omni Tucson National Resort Golf Course
2727 W Club Dr, Tucson, AZ 85742-9766
This golf course is the home of the PGA Northern Telecom Open.
9
Gates Pass
Gates Pass Road, Tucson, AZ 85743
10
La Paloma Country Club
3660 E Sunrise Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718-3397
This 27-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, appealing to pros and beginners alike, is situated on the lovely 250-acre Westin La Paloma resort and offers magnificent city and mountain views.
11
Presidio San Agustin Del Tucson Museum
196 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701-1002
Whether you are a lifelong Tucson resident or a first-time visitor, the Tucson Presidio Historic Museum is must-see. At this re-creation of a Spanish fort built in 1775, experience a 150-year-old classic Sonoran Row house to see how houses were built before the railroad brought in the new building materials of that age. See archaeological remains of a pit house in the ground, and learn about the lives of early Native Americans. Take a docent-led tour of where you’ll discover how Tucson residents lived before air conditioning and cell phones. Kids of all ages can try out Presidio-era kids games in the box on the Territorial Patio and try on the cuera, the Presidio soldier’s version of chainmail, in the soldiers’ quarters. During our many Living History events, visitors enjoy demonstrations of blacksmithing, food preparation, and also see historical re-enactments and soldier drills. We also offer more than 15 historic and cultural walking tours, most in the downtown area.
12
Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
1601 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719
Located on the University of Arizona campus, Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium inspires visitors of all ages to explore the wonders of science. Take a journey through the solar system and beyond in Flandrau’s state-of-the-art planetarium theater, featuring a fulldome digital projection system that launches you from the Earth to the planets, moons, and asteroids of our galaxy. Flandrau also offers fun interactive science exhibits that will engage the whole family, and dazzling specimens from the UA Mineral Museum. Current exhibit topics include earth science, sharks, astronomy, math puzzles, and gemstones. Open Tuesday through Sunday, see website for hours, showtimes, and admission prices.
13
Golf N' Stuff Family Fun Center
6503 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715-3812
14
All Around Trail Horses
16721 E Old Spanish Trl, Tucson, AZ 85641
Discover the Southwest by Horseback! Tucson’s long running and family owned Pantano Riding Stables caters to people of all ages, sizes, and experience levels. Enjoy a Ride Enjoy a romantic ride or join a group of friends for a combination trail ride and dinner. Have a bale of fun on a wagon hay-ride with an option of dining under the stars by campfire or explore the Saguaro National Park with our special park rides. Photography and Artist rides are also available, or if you are looking for something special — just let us know. Please take a look around our website and if you have any questions please contact our friendly staff.
Customize this Trip

OVERVIEW

You'll start your journey in the vibrant city of Phoenix, Arizona, renowned for its stunning desert landscapes, towering mountains, and fascinating history. From there, you'll embark on an exciting adventure, traversing through the heart of the Sonoran Desert as you make your way to the captivating city of Tucson. Along the way, you'll encounter a diverse array of natural wonders, from towering saguaro cacti to meandering rivers and rugged mountain ranges.

As you journey through the desert, keep an eye out for the region’s iconic wildlife, such as majestic roadrunners, sly coyotes, and graceful deer. The Sonoran Desert is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. Don’t forget to take breaks along the route to soak up the breathtaking scenery and capture the beauty of the desert in photographs.

Upon arriving in Tucson, you'll be charmed by its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and captivating natural surroundings. Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains, Tucson offers an enticing blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking historical exploration, artistic inspiration, or thrilling desert experiences, Tucson has something to offer every traveler.

1
Start:Arizona Science Center
Phoenix, Arizona·
4.0
(967) review
Located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center has been a hub for science and discovery for the community and visitors. Featuring more than 300 hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, a range of interactive online science content, the state-of-the-art Dorrance Planetarium, and the five-story Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater– Arizona Science Center offers programs for all ages. For further details, please visit azscience.org.
600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004-2303
2
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Scottsdale, Arizona·
4.0
(95) review
9051 East Via De Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
3
Troon North Golf Club Monument Course
Scottsdale, Arizona·
4.5
(96) review
The Monument Course, which opened in 1990, was conceived by legendary golfer Tom Weiskopf and Architect Jay Morrish. In 2007, the course underwent a major renovation project, led by Tom Weiskopf. An entirely new playing experience was created by exchanging its front nine holes with the front nine of its sibling course, the Pinnacle Course, and changing the sequence in which the holes are played. Hallmarks of the course include balance, variety and immaculate course conditions.
10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262-5662
4
Makutu's Island
Chandler, Arizona·
3.5
(92) review
Makutu’s [Ma-coo-two’s] [means magic] Island was called Club Disney - is an evergreen lush, exciting indoor “island” with towering trees, climbs, mysterious caves, a "bungee jump", a zip track, an arcade, a café, a special toddler zone and so much more. Our admission price includes ALL DAY fun (and it is not a trampoline park or bounce jungle that you need to pay by the hour). Makutu's Island has no affiliation with Disney. Even though the structure and design were done by Disney, it is now re-themed as Makutu's Island with our cute characters that include the jaguar cub Makutu and his friends. It is a unique tropical jungle themed as a Regional Entertainment. The centerpiece of Makutu’s Island is a magnificent indoor tree. The tree is filled with tunnels, tubes, mole-holes, and slides. Our facility offers hours of fun and adventure.
6919 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-1769
5
Whirlwind Golf Club
Chandler, Arizona·
4.0
(94) review
Whirlwind Golf Club is truly a unique southwest golf experience. The courses, clubhouse, and practice facilities are sensitively designed to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Gila River Indian Community. Named for the prominent design feature of the hand-woven basketry of the Authum tribe, Whirlwind is the work of golf course architect Gary Panks. His design weaves the spirit and legacy of this ancient land into a marvelous test of golf. The Devil's Claw course features sweeping elevation changes and dramatic bunkering. The Cattail course complements the Devil's Claw, but lends a whole new flavor to this 36-hole masterpiece, with its rolling fairways accented by striking water features and deep canyons. Whirlwind promises a dynamic golf experience marked by spectacular landscaping, unrivaled course conditions, and genuine customer service.
5692 W North Loop Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5268
6
Escape the Room
Chandler, Arizona·
5.0
(92) review
Escape The Room Chandler is the premier escape game experience in the Chandler area. With three unique rooms to play and the most technologically advanced puzzles, you will truly be tested to see if you and your friends can put together enough of the clues and escape the room!
3157 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5168
7
Wild West Horse Adventures
Scottsdale, Arizona·
5.0
(97) review
Experience the Sonoran Desert the way it was intended, on horseback. We offer private trail rides in the Sonoran Preserve. They are maintained to provide the most exceptional experience that you'll remember for a lifetime. Let's hit the trails!
31402 N 136th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
8
Omni Tucson National Resort Golf Course
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(95) review
This golf course is the home of the PGA Northern Telecom Open.
2727 W Club Dr, Tucson, AZ 85742-9766
9
Gates Pass
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(952) review
Gates Pass Road, Tucson, AZ 85743
10
La Paloma Country Club
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(93) review
This 27-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, appealing to pros and beginners alike, is situated on the lovely 250-acre Westin La Paloma resort and offers magnificent city and mountain views.
3660 E Sunrise Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718-3397
11
Presidio San Agustin Del Tucson Museum
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(92) review
Whether you are a lifelong Tucson resident or a first-time visitor, the Tucson Presidio Historic Museum is must-see. At this re-creation of a Spanish fort built in 1775, experience a 150-year-old classic Sonoran Row house to see how houses were built before the railroad brought in the new building materials of that age. See archaeological remains of a pit house in the ground, and learn about the lives of early Native Americans. Take a docent-led tour of where you’ll discover how Tucson residents lived before air conditioning and cell phones. Kids of all ages can try out Presidio-era kids games in the box on the Territorial Patio and try on the cuera, the Presidio soldier’s version of chainmail, in the soldiers’ quarters. During our many Living History events, visitors enjoy demonstrations of blacksmithing, food preparation, and also see historical re-enactments and soldier drills. We also offer more than 15 historic and cultural walking tours, most in the downtown area.
196 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701-1002
12
Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(93) review
Located on the University of Arizona campus, Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium inspires visitors of all ages to explore the wonders of science. Take a journey through the solar system and beyond in Flandrau’s state-of-the-art planetarium theater, featuring a fulldome digital projection system that launches you from the Earth to the planets, moons, and asteroids of our galaxy. Flandrau also offers fun interactive science exhibits that will engage the whole family, and dazzling specimens from the UA Mineral Museum. Current exhibit topics include earth science, sharks, astronomy, math puzzles, and gemstones. Open Tuesday through Sunday, see website for hours, showtimes, and admission prices.
1601 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719
13
Golf N' Stuff Family Fun Center
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(91) review
6503 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715-3812
14
All Around Trail Horses
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(96) review
Discover the Southwest by Horseback! Tucson’s long running and family owned Pantano Riding Stables caters to people of all ages, sizes, and experience levels. Enjoy a Ride Enjoy a romantic ride or join a group of friends for a combination trail ride and dinner. Have a bale of fun on a wagon hay-ride with an option of dining under the stars by campfire or explore the Saguaro National Park with our special park rides. Photography and Artist rides are also available, or if you are looking for something special — just let us know. Please take a look around our website and if you have any questions please contact our friendly staff.
16721 E Old Spanish Trl, Tucson, AZ 85641

CHECKLIST

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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between Phoenix and Tucson?
The distance is 132 miles
What's the travel time between Phoenix and Tucson?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 2h 31m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Phoenix and Tucson?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Tucson?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Tucson
What’s the weather like in Tucson?
The weather in Tucson is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Tucson in January
Weather in Tucson in February
Weather in Tucson in March
Weather in Tucson in April
Weather in Tucson in May
Weather in Tucson in June
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Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Tucson?
Plan your dream Tucson trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Tucson
A 2-day itinerary in Tucson
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Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in Phoenix?
We have a lot of great trip options for Phoenix! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you