There is nothing better than a road trip to experience some of the best sights and natural features of the Grand Canyon State. While we have created dozens of road trips that take you all around the state, we have found that some of our favorite adventures take multiple days and include immersing ourselves in nature and making stops at local businesses along the way. If you are up for an unforgettable journey, check out this road trip in Arizona that will take you to some of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls and best local wineries. It’s the perfect combination for an extraordinary adventure!

This is no short road trip. You will travel nearly 850 miles and will want to plan at least 15.5 hours just for driving. However, there’s no need to worry about the distance! We’ve located multiple Best Western hotels in Arizona along the route. You can enjoy the sights, tastes, and comforts of Arizona in just a few days. Are you ready for the journey? Let’s hop in the car and go!

1. Grand Falls, Flagstaff
Grand Falls, Arizona, Arizona 86035, USA
JeffGoulden/E+ Via Getty Images
No waterfall road trip in Arizona is complete without a visit to Grand Falls. These waterfalls are more than 180 feet tall and are fed by the snowmelt and rain from the White Mountains and Little Colorado River — this means the best times to view the falls are during the spring or monsoon seasons. While no hike is necessary to see these falls, you can take a short trail down to the water for a unique viewpoint.
2. Water Wheel Falls, Payson
Water Wheel, Arizona 85541, USA
jmpncsu/TripAdvisor
Water Wheel Falls is a small yet beautiful waterfall that deserves your attention. This waterfall is named for the water wheel that is found along the one-mile hike to reach the falls. While the trail itself is a bit rocky, it is fairly easy and scenic every step of the way. Bring your swimsuit and water shoes and hop in the small pool at the bottom of the falls to cool off on a hot Arizona day!

After exploring two stunning waterfalls in one day, you can stay the night at the Best Western Inn of Payson or drive a little farther down the road to the Best Western Copper Hills Inn.
3. Carlson Creek Vineyard, Willcox
115 N Railview Ave, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Carlson Creek Vineyard/Facebook
Carlson Creek Vineyard is a charming family-owned vineyard located in southeastern Arizona. Because it sits at 4,200 feet in elevation, much higher than other locations in the Grand Canyon State, you’ll find grapes with richer colors and thicker skins, which produce more flavorful wines. Stop by and enjoy a sip of wine on the gorgeous outdoor patio. You can even take a tour of the vineyards if you desire. If you plan your trip just right, you may even participate in one of the many events or classes hosted at the winery.

You'll then want to continue down the road just a little more to Sierra Vista, where you can stay in the Best Western Plus Sun Canyon, a great location to recharge and relax!
4. Callaghan Vineyards, Elgin
336 Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611, USA
Callaghan Vineyards/Facebook
When visiting some of the best local wineries in Arizona, you must make a stop at Callaghan Vineyards. This is one of Arizona’s largest producers of award-winning wines and these wines have even been served multiple times at White House dinners. You’ll want to see what all of the fuss is about by stopping in this winery's tasting room. You can even bring a picnic lunch for the ultimate road trip stop.

Related Stories

The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Arizona

The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Arizona

 The Stunning Arizona Drive That Is One Of The Best Road Trips You Can Take In America

The Stunning Arizona Drive That Is One Of The Best Road Trips You Can Take In America

 4 Spots Along The Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive In Arizona That Everyone Should Stop And Visit

4 Spots Along The Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive In Arizona That Everyone Should Stop And Visit
5. Charron Vineyards, Vail
18585 S Sonoita Hwy, Vail, AZ 85641, USA
Charron Vineyards and Winery/Facebook
Charron Vineyard and Winery is tucked away in Vail, outside of Tucson, and features gorgeous desert views. During your visit, you will not only enjoy the beautiful landscape, but you can easily find a flavor of wine that you love as there are more than 16 options available. This winery is known for its dry and white merlots, but if visiting on a hot day, we suggest trying a wine slushie.

You will certainly need a break and a chance to relax after a visit to Charron Vineyards and the Best Western Tucson International Airport Hotel and Suites is the perfect stop!
6. Tanque Verde Falls, Tucson
Tanque Verde Falls Trail, Arizona 85749, USA
Breakfree Unlimited/iStock Via Getty Images Plus
If you are up for a little adventure, you will have to conquer a 1.8-mile trail through the Arizona desert to view Tanque Verde Falls. But don't worry as this is a scenic hike that offers variations in terrain, beautiful views, and a gorgeous waterfall. Once you reach the 80-foot falls, you can relax and admire the natural beauty of Arizona while sitting on a sandy beach.

While you can always continue your drive, there are many great places to stay in Tucson to rest before a day of more driving, waterfalls, and wine. Consider a stay at the Best Western Royal Sun Inn and Suites or the Best Western Gold Poppy Inn, both conveniently located along the route!
7. Arizona Falls, Phoenix AZ
Arizona Falls, 5802 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
Previa1994/TripAdvisor
Arizona Falls is actually a unique urban waterfall that is found right in the heart of Phoenix. This waterfall is part of an old hydroelectric dam and the 20-foot falls generate enough electricity to power up to 150 homes. In addition to viewing the waterfall during your visit, explore the many walking paths that are paved and accessible. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and explore.

You've had a long day of driving and we recommend you take a break. For a good night's sleep, book a stay at the Vīb Hotel by Best Western Phoenix-Tempe or the Best Western Downtown Phoenix.
8. Stetson Winery, Kingman
10965 Moonscape Way, Kingman, AZ 86401, USA
Marie-France BAUDRIT/Google
Located just a few minutes from Historic Route 66, Stetson Winery is the perfect place to conclude our road trip. This is the only winery in northwestern Arizona and it is delightful in every way. This is another winery with gorgeous mountain views as the property is surrounded by three different mountain ranges. This family-owned winery features a 40-foot-long tasting bar where you can sample the wines and if in the area on Sunday evenings, make sure to stop by for live entertainment and wine tastings.

For one last place to spend the night on this waterfalls and wineries road trip in Arizona, stay at the Best Western Plus King's Inn and Suites.

What do you think of our wineries and waterfalls multi-day road trip in Arizona? Are there any stops you would add to the itinerary? Let us know in the comments! And, when you need to recharge and refresh on any trip, make sure to find the closest Best Western property to you!

More to Explore

Road Trip in Arizona

Courtnie Erickson | March 09, 2023

What are some other road trips in Arizona I should take?

Here at Only In Your State, we love a good road trip. In fact, we have created dozens of road trip itineraries to take you to destinations, natural wonders, restaurants, and more all around Arizona. Whether you want an exciting trip with your friends, family, or even just by yourself, take a look at a small sampling of our road trips in Arizona:

 

However, before you head on any road trip in Arizona — like our wineries in Arizona road trip — make sure you are prepared with all of the essentials! Check out our ultimate road trip packing list to ensure you don’t forget a thing. By using this list to prepare for your adventure, you will be ready for any challenge that comes your way!

What are some of the best scenic drives in Arizona?

While the best road trip in Arizona is certainly worthwhile, sometimes you don’t have days to devote to a trip. Rather, you may want to tackle a scenic drive. The following are some of the best scenic drives in Arizona. Prepare yourself for pure beauty!

 

What are some of the most beautiful places in Arizona?

While the waterfalls in Arizona are certainly some of the most beautiful destinations in our great state, there are so many other scenic destinations in Arizona that deserve a spot on every bucket list. Some of the most beautiful places in Arizona include:

Related Articles