Tucson Real Estate Guide: 5 Day Trips to Cool Summer Spots in Arizona
Photo by Ruoyu Li
Tucson may sizzle in the summer, but there are some seriously cool getaways just a short drive away. Whether you're craving mountain air, quirky towns, or stargazing skies, these Southern Arizona day trips are perfect for beating the heat or just getting a fresh perspective.
Here are five of our favorite day trip destinations from Tucson:
1. Mount Lemmon
Distance from Tucson: ~1 hour
Escape the heat with a 30-degree temperature drop as you climb into the pines. Mount Lemmon is a local favorite for hiking, picnics, scenic drives, and even a slice of pie at the Cookie Cabin. The Catalina Highway drive alone is worth the trip.
2. Patagonia & Sonoita Wine Country
Distance from Tucson: ~1.5 hours
Sip your way through Southern Arizona’s wine region with stunning grassland views. Start in Sonoita for a tasting, then head to Patagonia for boutique shops, birdwatching, and a chill small-town vibe. Cooler temps and wide open skies make it a top pick. Please don’t drink and drive. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver or hire one of the wine-tasting tour driving companies so you can taste at will.
3. Kitt Peak National Observatory
Distance from Tucson: ~1.5 hours
A unique high-elevation adventure for curious minds. Kitt Peak is home to one of the world’s largest collections of telescopes and offers public daytime and evening programs. The altitude means cooler air and dark skies, perfect for stargazing. It can be COLD up on Kitt Peak so pack accordingly!
4. Bisbee
Distance from Tucson: ~2 hours
Art, history, and cool canyon breezes. Bisbee is a former mining town turned funky artist haven with galleries, antique shops, coffee houses, and ghost tours. You’ll feel like you stepped into a Southwest time capsule.
5. Madera Canyon
Distance from Tucson: ~1 hour
A hidden gem for nature lovers, birders, and hikers. Located in the Santa Rita Mountains, Madera Canyon offers cooler temps, shaded trails, and picnic areas; no wine or shops here, just serenity and wildlife.
Quick Tips for Summer Day Trips
Leave early to beat the midday heat
Bring extra water and snacks
Pack layers, mountain temps can surprise you
Make sure your car is road-trip ready
Check for wildfire or storm alerts before you go
Thinking about putting down roots in Southern Arizona?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating, or searching for a second home near these incredible Arizona destinations, Kristen Glasheen, REALTOR®, is your go-to Tucson Real Estate expert.
☎️ Call: 520-345-9360
📱 Text: 520-345-9360
📧 Email: kglasheen@kw.com
Interested in buying or selling Tucson real estate? Contact Kristen today for expert guidance and personalized service in the Tucson area.