Arizona’s rocky canyon walls, beautiful Western-style towns, and the sweeping Sonoran Desert provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Whether you want to stroll through wineries or spend a few days at a secluded desert spa, there are plenty of fun activities conveniently located near many Arizona vacation rentals. Here are eight vacation destinations in Arizona ideal for a short weekend trip with your loved one.
1. Sedona
Situated just a few hours north of Phoenix, Sedona offers cabins and other romantic vacation rentals surrounded by the natural beauty of Red Rock State Park. Enjoy a couple’s treatment at a day spa such as Sedona Body and Soul, or hike to see the sunset from Airport Mesa. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner, your choices are classy and hip, including upscale picks such as Creekside American Bistro. While a weekend in Sedona goes by fast, you have plenty of time to take in the landscape and city attractions.
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2. Fountain Hills
Set against the Sonoran Desert, this charming small town just northeast of Phoenix is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few days. Its main draw is The Fountain, an impressive display that was once the tallest in the world. Walk hand in hand through Fountain Hills Botanical Garden to see flowering desert flora, or stroll through Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery. Check out one of the golf courses or day spas, followed by a hike on the Fountain Hills Lake Overlook Trail with your loved one. Before heading back to your vacation home for a glass of wine, enjoy fine dining at Du Jour Restaurant and other local favorites.
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3. Canyon Lake
This impressive area just east of Phoenix may not host enough attractions for a long vacation, but its natural beauty makes it the perfect spot for a weekend couple’s retreat. See the canyon walls rising high above the water from a ride on the nostalgic The Dolly Steamboat, or rent a boat at Canyon Lake Marina for a cruise for two. For a real treat, enjoy a helicopter tour before stopping for a romantic meal at Silver Sage Grille, one of many upscale gastropubs and restaurants on and around the lake.
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4. Cottonwood
Offering a taste of the Old West, this romantic town in Arizona wine country is ideal for a few days of wine tasting and relaxation. Arizona Stronghold Vineyards Tasting Room, Alcantara Vineyards, and Burning Tree Cellars Tasting Room are a few favorites. Plus, gourmet dining spots such as Nic’s Italian Steak and Crab House cater to couples, and between tastings, you can stroll through the antique stores of Historic Old Town Cottonwood.
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5. Lake Havasu City
Situated three hours northwest of Phoenix, this unique town is the permanent home of the old London Bridge, a romantic spot for taking photos or simply watching the sun set over the lake. Rent a boat to cruise Lake Havasu with your loved one, or roll a few dice on the water at Havasu Landing Casino. Before the weekend ends, you have plenty of time to see the Lake Havasu Lighthouses or even take a hot-air balloon ride with your sweetheart.
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6. Willcox
Escape to the heart of wine country just east of Tucson for a weekend of wine-tasting and enjoying the sweeping desert scenery. Head out from your secluded vacation home to sample wines at Coronado Vineyard or Zarpara Vineyard, and be sure to stop by Apple Annie’s Orchard for some fresh picks. For a natural escape, visit Muleshoe Ranch to hike through what locals call a top birding spot. Western fans should check out the Willcox Cowboy Hall of Fame for a unique date.
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7. Page
While it may lack big-city entertainment, this romantic escape on the northern border of the state just four hours from Phoenix is a natural treasure. Kayak or raft the Lower Antelope Canyon or Horseshoe Bend to gaze up at flowing red rock formations, or take a laid-back boat tour with your loved one. Page is also home to charming massage parlors and spas, such as Dimensions Salon and Spa. Looking for a place to enjoy a romantic dinner? Try the Rainbow Room overlooking the river and canyon walls, or enjoy trendy spots such as Blue Wine Bar.
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8. Alpine
Nestled in the White Mountains, this secluded town lies just over four hours from both Tucson and Phoenix at an elevation of 8,000 feet. Enjoy the area’s top attractions with your sweetheart over the weekend, which may include a horseback ride with Chuck’s Trail Riding Adventures at Hannagan Meadow or MD Ranch. When you’re not enjoying mountain views from your Alpine cabin, take a romantic hike along the Escudilla Wilderness Trail, or stop for a bite at a local tavern such as Bear Wallow Cafe. You can also enjoy a picnic along the San Francisco River, which is famous for its trout fishing.
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