Ultimate Guide to Day Trips In & Around Lake Havasu

One of the best things about a Lake Havasu getaway is how much there is to explore in the area. From historic Route 66 towns and Colorado River hideaways to the the towering cliffs of the Grand Canyon, western Arizona and the surrounding region are full of unforgettable road-trip destinations.

Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic drive, some Old West nostalgia, or a bucket-list hiking adventure, these day trips are some of our favorite ways to make the most of a trip to Lake Havasu. With one of our luxury Lake Havasu vacation rentals as your home base, you can spend the day exploring, then come back to chill in your private pool and spa before enjoying a relaxing evening at home.

Grand Canyon National Park: A Bucket-List Adventure

Best for: Hiking, spectacular scenery, and a full day of exploration

The Grand Canyon deserves a place on any Arizona travel itinerary. Its immense scale, colorful rock layers, and sweeping vistas should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. The South Rim offers several ways to experience this natural wonder. The South Rim sites within Grand Canyon National Park and offers several ways to experience this natural wonder

Plan on a long day: the drive from Lake Havasu City takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours each way, depending on your route and weather conditions. Once you arrive, you can visit scenic overlooks, explore Grand Canyon Village, or stretch your legs on the Rim Trail, which offers beautiful canyon views and easier walking options.

For a more challenging hike, consider a short out-and-back section of the Bright Angel or South Kaibab trails. Remember that hiking back up takes considerably more effort than hiking down, and conditions can change quickly. Don’t attempt to hike to the Colorado River and back in one day.

Planning tip: Start early, bring plenty of water and snacks, and check National Park Service trail conditions before leaving. This is an ambitious day trip, so consider an overnight stay in northern Arizona if you want more time to explore.

Williams, Arizona: A Classic Route 66 Town

Best for: Vintage Americana, small-town charm, and family-friendly attractions

About 2.5 to 3 hours from Lake Havasu City, Williams makes a fun destination for travelers who enjoy historic downtowns and classic American road trips.

Known as a gateway to the Grand Canyon, Williams has a lively stretch of historic Route 66 lined with neon signs, gift shops, restaurants, and nostalgic roadside character. Spend some time browsing the downtown shops, grab a bite to eat, and take in the atmosphere of one of Arizona’s most recognizable Route 66 road stops.

Families can also visit Bearizona, a drive-through wildlife park featuring North American animals, or ride the Grand Canyon Railway for a memorable journey to the South Rim.

Planning tip: Williams and the Grand Canyon pair naturally, making them a good combination for travelers willing to spend a full day on the road.

Oatman, Arizona: Wild Burros & Wild West History

Best for: Quirky attractions, scenic drives, and Old West nostalgia

Just over an hour northwest of Lake Havasu City, Oatman is a former gold-mining town that feels like a step back into the Old West. Located along historic Route 66 in the Black Mountains, this small community is known for its wooden sidewalks, Western storefronts, and free-roaming burros.

Wander through town, browse the gift shops, and keep an eye out for the burros that roam the streets. Depending on the day, you may also catch a staged Western gunfight or stop for a meal at one of the local restaurants.

Getting there is part of the adventure. The historic road through the mountains features steep grades, tight switchbacks, and sweeping desert views. Take your time, obey posted speed limits, and enjoy the drive.

Planning tip: Arrive earlier in the day for a better chance of exploring the shops and seeing the town's attractions. Keep a respectful distance from the burros and never feed them.

Topock, Arizona: A Colorado River Escape

Best for: Wildlife, boating, kayaking, and scenic river views

If you love the Colorado River, make time to explore Topock, just a short drive from Lake Havasu City. This small river community is a gateway to the beautiful Topock Gorge and the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge, where desert cliffs meet stretches of river and marshland.

The gorge is particularly impressive from the water, and you can book a boat tour from London Bridge Resort. Boaters and paddlers can enjoy the gorge’s rugged rock formations while watching for wildlife, including birds and desert bighorn sheep. On land, the refuge offers opportunities for wildlife watching, photography, and fishing at designated access points.

For more information about recreation areas and access, visit the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge.

Planning tip: Topock Gorge is accessible by river, so you'll need a boat or suitable watercraft to explore the gorge itself. Check access rules and boating conditions before setting out.

Pirate's Cove: A Waterfront Day Trip

Best for: Riverfront dining, boating, and laid-back fun

For a change of scenery without committing to a long drive, head to Pirate Cove Resort & Marina at Moabi Regional Park near Needles, California. Set along the Colorado River near the Arizona–California border, Pirate’s Cove is a popular destination for boaters, families, and anyone who enjoys a relaxing day by the water.

Grab a meal at the pirate-themed restaurant and beach bar, take in the river views, or check out the available boating and off-road recreation options. Families can also look into the resort's kid-friendly water play area and playground.

Planning tip: Check the resort's current restaurant hours and activity availability before heading out. Some activities may require reservations or additional fees.

Sedona, Arizona: Red Rocks, shops & Art Galleries

Best for: Hiking, breathtaking scenery, art galleries, shopping, and dining

If dramatic red-rock landscapes are on your Arizona wish list, Sedona is worth the drive. Located roughly 3.5 to 4 hours from Lake Havasu City, this picturesque destination is known for towering sandstone formations, winding scenic roads, and a lively arts and dining scene. It's a longer day trip, but there's plenty to explore for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers who prefer a leisurely afternoon browsing shops and galleries.

Outdoor lovers can hit the trails around iconic formations like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock, or take a guided Jeep tour into the rugged backcountry for a closer look at the landscape. For an easier outing, enjoy the views along Red Rock Scenic Byway or visit the striking Chapel of the Holy Cross, built directly into the red-rock cliffs.

When you're ready for a change of pace, head to Uptown Sedona to browse art galleries, specialty shops, and local restaurants. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is another favorite, with charming courtyards, artisan boutiques, and Southwestern-inspired architecture.

Planning tip: Leave early to make the most of your visit, especially if hiking is on the agenda. Popular trailhead parking fills quickly, so check local trail and shuttle information before you go. With so much to see, Sedona can easily fill an entire day; consider an overnight stay if you'd rather explore at a more relaxed pace.

Route 66: Take the Scenic Route

Best for: Road-trip enthusiasts, historic landmarks, and spontaneous stops

You don't have to travel far from Lake Havasu City to experience a piece of America's legendary Route 66—and you don’t need to have a destination in mind, either. This historic highway winds through western Arizona, connecting small towns, vintage roadside attractions, and dramatic desert landscapes.

Oatman is one of the region's most distinctive Route 66 destinations, while Kingman offers the Arizona Route 66 Museum and a look at the highway's history. Farther east, Seligman is another popular stop for travelers interested in classic Route 66 culture.

Make a day of it by combining a scenic drive with local diners, historic storefronts, souvenir shopping, and photo stops along the way. Just remember that the most memorable road trips leave a little room for detours.

Planning tip: Choose a section of Route 66 rather than trying to cover too much in one day. Oatman and Kingman make a manageable western Arizona outing, while Williams and Seligman work better as part of a longer northern Arizona trip.

Come Home to Luxury in Lake Havasu

From scenic river escapes to historic highways and iconic national parks, there's plenty to discover within driving distance of Lake Havasu City. Choose a nearby destination for a relaxed outing or set aside a full day for a bigger adventure.

Then come home to one of our Lake Havasu properties to unwind in your heated pool and spa, cook dinner in your fully equipped kitchen, or gather with family and friends for a relaxing evening. With a comfortable home base and so much to explore nearby, your Lake Havasu getaway can be as adventurous—or as laid-back—as you want it to be.