Now OUT
DAYTRIPPIN’
Exciting explorations just a short car ride away
Getting out of town doesn’t have to require packing an overnight bag. Taking a daytrip is a great option to see some beautiful views, learn some Arizona history and wow your visitors.
BY MANDY HOLMES
Sip Near Sedona Since 2002, Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery located just outside of Sedona has been producing a variety of fine wines, helping to establish Northern Arizona’s Verde Valley as a well-respected wine region. The 10-acre, high desert estate vineyard sits at a 3,400-foot elevation and was introduced to wine grapes by Spanish Missionaries in the 1600 and 1700s. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly option, the Page Springs Hatchery just down the road features a thriving fish, wildlife, and bird habitat and is free to visitors of all ages. www.oakcreekvineyards.com. See Exotic Animals in Camp Verde Out of Africa is home to exotic animals including tigers, bears, zebras, and giraffes. Established to create the ultimate animal adventure inspired by a colorful world of astonishing wildlife, the wildlife park provides interactive learning experiences that are worth the 90-minute drive north. Fifteen minutes away you will find the Montezuma Castle National Monument, a spectacular five-story structure built by the Sinagua Indians around the 14th century. Be sure to stop for a world famous pie at Rock Springs Café on the way home, you won’t be disappointed! www.outofafricapark.com. Visit Historic Tucson Elevated north of Tucson, Hacienda Del Sol is a relaxing retreat with breathtaking views and a storied history. Grab lunch at one of the luxury ranch’s restaurants or book a stay that includes a guestroom from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., lunch and wine for two, a spa credit and access to resort amenities. On the way back stop by the Rooster Gogburn Ostrich Ranch, a three-generation, family-owned and -operated ostrich haven (with many other animals) in the town of Picacho. www.haciendadelsol.com Explore Pine’s Nature Believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world, Tonto National Bridge State Park is located approximately two hours north of the valley in the quaint town of Pine. Standing over 183 feet high, the 400-foot-long tunnel is home to the flowing Pine Creek, with three hiking trails, a picnic area, and a group use area. On your way out of town, grab a meal at That Brewery, a casual eatery for beer enthusiasts, foodies, nature fanatics, and families and enjoy beer flights served in muffin tins and elk chili topped with their signature beer cheese sauce. www.azstateparks.com. Head to Haunted Jerome Brave the Haunted Hamburger and experience sweeping views of the Verde Valley and the San Francisco Peaks in the distance. Learn about the spirits that supposedly inhabit the historical building between bites of a Ghostly Burger or Chocolate Devil boozy shake. After you’ve hung out for a while to determine if the restaurant is truly haunted, head to the Jerome Art Walk on the first Saturday of each month. Galleries and studios open their doors for evenings of summertime enchantment filled with one of a kind art around every corner. www.thehauntedhamburger.com.
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Uptown August '18