A Southwestern road trip is an unforgettable experience, filled with diverse landscapes and endless adventures waiting around every bend. It’s a fantastic way to visit some of the coolest cities in the country, from the top-tier culture of Phoenix to the endless excitement of Las Vegas, and the excellent dining in Salt Lake City.
Moreover, the string of small, historic towns that connect these glittering urban centers adds to the charm of the journey. This itinerary will allow you to get off the main roads and explore quirky small towns as well, like living time capsules such as Kingman and Oatman, Arizona, along with nature and outdoor adventure found in towns like St. George, Utah.
No matter what you’re looking for, your best bet is to start in Arizona, where you’ll cruise along historic Route 66, hit the open road, and create some lasting memories.
Phoenix
Phoenix is an ideal starting point, with its delicious Southwestern and Mexican cuisine, excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, and vibrant nightlife – a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Culturally, it offers an array of experiences including opera, symphonies, theaters, and three of the state’s finest museums.
Additionally, take a stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden to marvel at the cacti and other unique desert plants or explore the many hiking and biking trails in nearby Papago Park. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, exploring the ‘Valley of the Sun’ is a treat.
After a day of sightseeing, indulge in the vibrant culinary scene, showcasing everything from traditional fare to contemporary fusion dishes.
The drive: Make your way to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, taking US60 through Wickenburg to 72 then 95. It’s about 200 miles so budget 4+ hours for stops.
Lake Havasu City, Ariz.
With its turquoise waters and stunning desert scenery, Lake Havasu is a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of outdoor activities including water sports, fishing, off-roading, and more.
When you visit, be sure to stroll across the iconic London Bridge, which was relocated from England to Lake Havasu in the 1960s. For a little more adventure, consider off-roading at nearby Sandbar Beach, or explore the surrounding desert landscape on an ATV or dirt bike.
Dining options include local favorites like Cha-Bones and the Red Onion, and for local beer and delightful sunsets, one should check out Mudshark Public House.
The drive: Make your way to Oatman, located along historic Route 66. It’s just 65 miles from Lake Havasu City and will take about 1.5 hours. Travel north on 95, west on I-40, then take historic Route 66 right into the town.
Oatman, Ariz.
Oatman is a charming, historic mining town that offers a glimpse into the Wild West. Stroll the streets and interact with the roaming burros – descendants of the pack animals once used by miners in the town’s boom days.
Moreover, you can visit the historic Oatman Hotel, which served as a stagecoach stop and hotel in the 1900s, or explore the Oatman Ghost Town Museum to learn about the town’s rich history. For even more entertainment, watch the famous Oatman Gunfighter Show, where actors recreate the Wild West in a lively performance.
With its delightful charm, rich heritage, and lively Wild West atmosphere, Oatman is a must-visit stop on any Arizona road trip.
The Drive: Kingman is just a short 30-mile drive from Oatman – follow Route 66 for 29 miles right into Kingman. Along the way, enjoy stunning desert scenery, with towering cacti, rolling hills, and rugged canyons. Stop at Sitgreaves Pass for a great view.
Kingman, Ariz.
Kingman is the quintessential Route 66 stop, featuring the perfect blend of natural beauty and historic charm.
Upon arrival, visit the Route 66 Museum to learn about the famous highway and its significance in American culture. Alternatively, the Mohave Museum of History and Arts offers insights into the local culture and history – a mural outside illustrates the timeline of Route 66, serving as an ideal photo opportunity.
Additionally, take a leisurely stroll through Locomotive Park, which showcases a collection of vintage trains. For outdoor adventures, escape the heat with a hike in the nearby Hualapai Mountain Park, or during cooler months, explore the Monolith Garden Trail.
Of course, you can’t leave Kingman without indulging in malts and burgers, as Kingman is the place for both.
The drive: Next stop, Grand Canyon West. 70 miles northeast of Kingman, utilize Stockton Hill Road, staying right at 25/261. Don’t miss the Joshua Tree Forest, nearly as dense and grand as the National Park in California.
Grand Canyon West, Ariz.
Grand Canyon West is not located within the National Park, but instead on Hualapai Tribal Lands. This destination offers a unique perspective of the world-renowned canyon.
The most well-known attraction here is the Skywalk, a heart-pounding horseshoe-shaped glass bridge extending 70 feet over the canyon, showcasing towering cliffs, deep gorges, and breathtaking vistas.
For an added thrill, consider a helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view of the canyon, complete with a stop at the bottom for a boat ride down the river. Stay the night to enjoy stargazing; there are RV/Camping sites, glamping, and cabins available for rent.
The drive: Take County road 25 to Hwy 93 toward Nevada. Boulder City is about 93 miles from Grand Canyon West, just past the Hoover Dam. A short road trip from Boulder City to the El Dorado ghost town of Nelson is highly recommended for a step back in time to explore this once-thriving mining town.
Boulder City, Nevada
Boulder City is an idyllic community perched above Lake Mead and the dam that created the town. Interestingly, it’s also one of the only places in the state that does not allow gambling.
While just 30 miles from Las Vegas, Boulder City offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. The Hoover Dam, one of the most iconic landmarks in the southwest, is located right in the heart of town. A visit to the on-site museum, along with a tour of the dam, provides valuable insights into its historical significance and engineering marvel.
The drive: Boulder City is just 26 miles from Las Vegas, yet it feels worlds apart.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, bright lights, world-class entertainment, and a multitude of dining and shopping options. Few places rival its selection of A-list entertainers and big-budget stage shows, while the concentration of celebrity chefs and exquisite fine-dining restaurants is remarkable.
However, it’s not solely about gambling and entertainment; just a short drive from the city reveals a wealth of natural wonders waiting to be explored.
The Valley of Fire State Park boasts stunning landscapes of red sandstone formations that provide incredible views and unique geological formations. Nearby, the ghost town of St. Thomas awaits exploration, a former boomtown that was abandoned when the Hoover Dam was built, subsequently submerged by Lake Mead.
St. George, Utah, and Zion National Park
St. George is a scenic and historic city that serves as an ideal base for exploring surrounding natural wonders. One prominent destination is Snow Canyon State Park, an awe-inspiring landscape filled with fantastic hiking and biking trails, along with rock climbing opportunities. Another popular spot is Sand Hollow, known for its unique sand dunes and crystal-clear waters, providing endless outdoor recreation options.
St. George is perhaps best known as a gateway to the spectacular Zion National Park. This park features colossal cliffs, dramatic canyons, and diverse plant and wildlife treasures. Hike through the Narrows or ascend Angels Landing for breathtaking views. Explore lesser-known grottoes and swim in pools of refreshing water.
Extend Your Trip
After a memorable road trip through small towns and glittering metropolises, consider seeking a spot that combines both. Look no further than Salt Lake City, a day trip away from St. George and Zion National Park. This vibrant city thrives on a liberal spirit, bolstered by a bustling college scene and nature-loving locals. Food enthusiasts will find much to enjoy, with a myriad of international and organic dining options.
When the call of the outdoors beckons, the Wasatch Mountains are just a short drive away, offering brilliant hiking and skiing opportunities. Friendly people, great food, and a wealth of outdoor adventures await in Salt Lake City.
