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Road trip from Houston to Phoenix
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ITINERARY
20h 0m1,185 miles22 stops
1
The Menil Collection
Houston philanthropists and art patrons John and Dominique de Menil established the Menil Foundation in 1954 to foster greater public understanding and appreciation of art, architecture, culture, religion, and philosophy. In 1987, the Menil Collection’s main museum building opened to the public. Today, the Menil Collection consists of a group of five art buildings and green spaces located within a residential neighborhood. The Menil remains committed to its founders’ belief that art is essential to human experience and fosters direct personal encounters with works of art. The museum welcomes all visitors free of charge to its buildings and surrounding green spaces.
2
Lillie and Hugh Roy Cullen Sculpture Garden
3
LoneStar Handgun
Situated on 130 acres with over 85 shooting stalls and reactive steel targets out to 300yds, 13 private bays, reactive steel targets, 10 Station Sporting Clays, 5 Stand Clays, Archery Range out to 80yds. We offer a variety of rental firearms, training classes and a full gun shop. Come see why our facility has become the go to range for those in the San Antonio area!
4
Paramour Roof Top Bar
5
Extreme Escape
Extreme Escape San Antonio is the FIRST to offer four different themed escape experience. Mutiny and Trapped Below have broad appeal, including puzzle loving families and children ages 9 and above, while Undead and Master of Illusion are suitable for teenagers and adults looking for a thrill. We’ve incorporated multi-dimensional elements like life-sized props, special effects and even smells to make your “escape” amazing!
6
Santikos Palladium IMAX
7
Magoffin Home State Historic Site
A striking adobe structure, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site explores the stories of a multicultural family who actively participated in U.S. expansion and settlement, military service, and U.S.-Mexico relations. The home, built around 1875 by Joseph Magoffin, is a prime example of Territorial style architecture and features a center courtyard and peaceful landscape. Explore the home's authentic art and furnishings reflecting the daily lives of this prominent El Paso family.
8
The Briar Patch
9
The Lhakhang
10
La Paloma Country Club
This 27-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, appealing to pros and beginners alike, is situated on the lovely 250-acre Westin La Paloma resort and offers magnificent city and mountain views.
11
Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
Located on the University of Arizona campus, Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium inspires visitors of all ages to explore the wonders of science. Take a journey through the solar system and beyond in Flandrau’s state-of-the-art planetarium theater, featuring a fulldome digital projection system that launches you from the Earth to the planets, moons, and asteroids of our galaxy. Flandrau also offers fun interactive science exhibits that will engage the whole family, and dazzling specimens from the UA Mineral Museum. Current exhibit topics include earth science, sharks, astronomy, math puzzles, and gemstones. Open Tuesday through Sunday, see website for hours, showtimes, and admission prices.
12
Will You Escape LLC
This is Tucson's first live escape game. Your group, comprised of friends, family or colleagues are locked in a room together. Your objective is to solve riddles, uncover clues and crack codes in order to escape in time. This game will test your problem solving skills while racing against the clock. Do you have what it takes? Will you make it out in time? Will You Escape?
13
Presidio San Agustin Del Tucson Museum
Whether you are a lifelong Tucson resident or a first-time visitor, the Tucson Presidio Historic Museum is must-see. At this re-creation of a Spanish fort built in 1775, experience a 150-year-old classic Sonoran Row house to see how houses were built before the railroad brought in the new building materials of that age. See archaeological remains of a pit house in the ground, and learn about the lives of early Native Americans. Take a docent-led tour of where you’ll discover how Tucson residents lived before air conditioning and cell phones. Kids of all ages can try out Presidio-era kids games in the box on the Territorial Patio and try on the cuera, the Presidio soldier’s version of chainmail, in the soldiers’ quarters. During our many Living History events, visitors enjoy demonstrations of blacksmithing, food preparation, and also see historical re-enactments and soldier drills. We also offer more than 15 historic and cultural walking tours, most in the downtown area.
14
Cactus Forest Trail
15
Omni Tucson National Resort Golf Course
This golf course is the home of the PGA Northern Telecom Open.
16
Gates Pass
17
Escape the Room
Escape The Room Chandler is the premier escape game experience in the Chandler area. With three unique rooms to play and the most technologically advanced puzzles, you will truly be tested to see if you and your friends can put together enough of the clues and escape the room!
18
Makutu's Island
Makutu’s [Ma-coo-two’s] [means magic] Island was called Club Disney - is an evergreen lush, exciting indoor “island” with towering trees, climbs, mysterious caves, a "bungee jump", a zip track, an arcade, a café, a special toddler zone and so much more. Our admission price includes ALL DAY fun (and it is not a trampoline park or bounce jungle that you need to pay by the hour). Makutu's Island has no affiliation with Disney. Even though the structure and design were done by Disney, it is now re-themed as Makutu's Island with our cute characters that include the jaguar cub Makutu and his friends. It is a unique tropical jungle themed as a Regional Entertainment. The centerpiece of Makutu’s Island is a magnificent indoor tree. The tree is filled with tunnels, tubes, mole-holes, and slides. Our facility offers hours of fun and adventure.
19
Desert Botanical Garden
Discover the tranquil vibrancy of desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of the Sonoran Desert, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. Scroll through the Garden's calendar so not to miss festive events and dazzling exhibitions. Delve deeper to learn about desert landscaping, nature art, cooking and wellness and more through the Garden's various adult and children's classes.
20
Whirlwind Golf Club
Whirlwind Golf Club is truly a unique southwest golf experience. The courses, clubhouse, and practice facilities are sensitively designed to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Gila River Indian Community. Named for the prominent design feature of the hand-woven basketry of the Authum tribe, Whirlwind is the work of golf course architect Gary Panks. His design weaves the spirit and legacy of this ancient land into a marvelous test of golf. The Devil's Claw course features sweeping elevation changes and dramatic bunkering. The Cattail course complements the Devil's Claw, but lends a whole new flavor to this 36-hole masterpiece, with its rolling fairways accented by striking water features and deep canyons. Whirlwind promises a dynamic golf experience marked by spectacular landscaping, unrivaled course conditions, and genuine customer service.
21
Arizona Science Center
Located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center has been a hub for science and discovery for the community and visitors. Featuring more than 300 hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, a range of interactive online science content, the state-of-the-art Dorrance Planetarium, and the five-story Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater– Arizona Science Center offers programs for all ages. For further details, please visit azscience.org.
22
Stand Up Live
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OVERVIEW
Get ready for an exciting adventure as we embark on a thrilling road trip from the bustling streets of Houston to the vibrant city of Phoenix! Along the way, we'll traverse vast landscapes, marvel at natural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The journey promises to be filled with awe-inspiring sights, educational experiences, and endless opportunities for fun and exploration.
As we leave Houston behind, we'll journey through diverse terrains, passing charming towns and wide-open spaces. We'll stop at roadside attractions, where we can stretch our legs, learn about local history, and savor delicious treats. Nature enthusiasts will be in awe of the breathtaking landscapes, with majestic mountains, sparkling rivers, and vibrant deserts painting a canvas of natural beauty. Along the way, we'll take time to appreciate the region's rich cultural heritage, visiting historical landmarks and learning about the traditions and stories that have shaped this part of the country.
As we approach Phoenix, the landscape transforms into a vibrant desert metropolis. We'll explore the city's urban attractions, from towering skyscrapers to sprawling parks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Shopping enthusiasts will delight in the endless retail options, while art lovers will appreciate the city's thriving art scene. The trip culminates in a grand finale, where we'll bid farewell to this incredible journey with a heart filled with cherished memories and a desire to return one day to relive the magic.
1
Start:The Menil Collection
Houston, Texas·
4.5
(970) review
Houston philanthropists and art patrons John and Dominique de Menil established the Menil Foundation in 1954 to foster greater public understanding and appreciation of art, architecture, culture, religion, and philosophy. In 1987, the Menil Collection’s main museum building opened to the public. Today, the Menil Collection consists of a group of five art buildings and green spaces located within a residential neighborhood. The Menil remains committed to its founders’ belief that art is essential to human experience and fosters direct personal encounters with works of art. The museum welcomes all visitors free of charge to its buildings and surrounding green spaces.
2
Start:Lillie and Hugh Roy Cullen Sculpture Garden
Houston, Texas·
4.5
(96) review
900 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
3
Start:LoneStar Handgun
San Antonio, Texas·
5.0
(25) review
Situated on 130 acres with over 85 shooting stalls and reactive steel targets out to 300yds, 13 private bays, reactive steel targets, 10 Station Sporting Clays, 5 Stand Clays, Archery Range out to 80yds. We offer a variety of rental firearms, training classes and a full gun shop. Come see why our facility has become the go to range for those in the San Antonio area!
4
Start:Paramour Roof Top Bar
San Antonio, Texas·
3.5
(93) review
102 9th St 4th Floor, San Antonio, TX 78215-1524
5
Start:Extreme Escape
San Antonio, Texas·
5.0
(966) review
Extreme Escape San Antonio is the FIRST to offer four different themed escape experience. Mutiny and Trapped Below have broad appeal, including puzzle loving families and children ages 9 and above, while Undead and Master of Illusion are suitable for teenagers and adults looking for a thrill. We’ve incorporated multi-dimensional elements like life-sized props, special effects and even smells to make your “escape” amazing!
6
Start:Santikos Palladium IMAX
San Antonio, Texas·
4.5
(96) review
17703 W Interstate 10, San Antonio, TX 78257-9529
7
Start:Magoffin Home State Historic Site
El Paso, Texas·
4.5
(94) review
A striking adobe structure, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site explores the stories of a multicultural family who actively participated in U.S. expansion and settlement, military service, and U.S.-Mexico relations. The home, built around 1875 by Joseph Magoffin, is a prime example of Territorial style architecture and features a center courtyard and peaceful landscape. Explore the home's authentic art and furnishings reflecting the daily lives of this prominent El Paso family.
8
Start:The Briar Patch
El Paso, Texas·
4.0
(8) review
508 N Stanton St, El Paso, TX 79901-1238
9
Start:The Lhakhang
El Paso, Texas·
5.0
(8) review
500 W University Ave Centennial Plaza, El Paso, TX 79968-8900
10
Start:La Paloma Country Club
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(93) review
This 27-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, appealing to pros and beginners alike, is situated on the lovely 250-acre Westin La Paloma resort and offers magnificent city and mountain views.
11
Start:Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(93) review
Located on the University of Arizona campus, Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium inspires visitors of all ages to explore the wonders of science. Take a journey through the solar system and beyond in Flandrau’s state-of-the-art planetarium theater, featuring a fulldome digital projection system that launches you from the Earth to the planets, moons, and asteroids of our galaxy. Flandrau also offers fun interactive science exhibits that will engage the whole family, and dazzling specimens from the UA Mineral Museum. Current exhibit topics include earth science, sharks, astronomy, math puzzles, and gemstones. Open Tuesday through Sunday, see website for hours, showtimes, and admission prices.
12
Start:Will You Escape LLC
Tucson, Arizona·
5.0
(9) review
This is Tucson's first live escape game. Your group, comprised of friends, family or colleagues are locked in a room together. Your objective is to solve riddles, uncover clues and crack codes in order to escape in time. This game will test your problem solving skills while racing against the clock. Do you have what it takes? Will you make it out in time? Will You Escape?
13
Start:Presidio San Agustin Del Tucson Museum
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(92) review
Whether you are a lifelong Tucson resident or a first-time visitor, the Tucson Presidio Historic Museum is must-see. At this re-creation of a Spanish fort built in 1775, experience a 150-year-old classic Sonoran Row house to see how houses were built before the railroad brought in the new building materials of that age. See archaeological remains of a pit house in the ground, and learn about the lives of early Native Americans. Take a docent-led tour of where you’ll discover how Tucson residents lived before air conditioning and cell phones. Kids of all ages can try out Presidio-era kids games in the box on the Territorial Patio and try on the cuera, the Presidio soldier’s version of chainmail, in the soldiers’ quarters. During our many Living History events, visitors enjoy demonstrations of blacksmithing, food preparation, and also see historical re-enactments and soldier drills. We also offer more than 15 historic and cultural walking tours, most in the downtown area.
14
Start:Cactus Forest Trail
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(9) review
Saguaro National Park, Tucson, AZ 85743
15
Start:Omni Tucson National Resort Golf Course
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(95) review
This golf course is the home of the PGA Northern Telecom Open.
16
Start:Gates Pass
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(952) review
Gates Pass Road, Tucson, AZ 85743
17
Start:Escape the Room
Chandler, Arizona·
5.0
(92) review
Escape The Room Chandler is the premier escape game experience in the Chandler area. With three unique rooms to play and the most technologically advanced puzzles, you will truly be tested to see if you and your friends can put together enough of the clues and escape the room!
18
Start:Makutu's Island
Chandler, Arizona·
3.5
(92) review
Makutu’s [Ma-coo-two’s] [means magic] Island was called Club Disney - is an evergreen lush, exciting indoor “island” with towering trees, climbs, mysterious caves, a "bungee jump", a zip track, an arcade, a café, a special toddler zone and so much more. Our admission price includes ALL DAY fun (and it is not a trampoline park or bounce jungle that you need to pay by the hour). Makutu's Island has no affiliation with Disney. Even though the structure and design were done by Disney, it is now re-themed as Makutu's Island with our cute characters that include the jaguar cub Makutu and his friends. It is a unique tropical jungle themed as a Regional Entertainment. The centerpiece of Makutu’s Island is a magnificent indoor tree. The tree is filled with tunnels, tubes, mole-holes, and slides. Our facility offers hours of fun and adventure.
19
Start:Desert Botanical Garden
Phoenix, Arizona·
4.5
(9149) review
Discover the tranquil vibrancy of desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of the Sonoran Desert, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. Scroll through the Garden's calendar so not to miss festive events and dazzling exhibitions. Delve deeper to learn about desert landscaping, nature art, cooking and wellness and more through the Garden's various adult and children's classes.
20
Start:Whirlwind Golf Club
Chandler, Arizona·
4.0
(94) review
Whirlwind Golf Club is truly a unique southwest golf experience. The courses, clubhouse, and practice facilities are sensitively designed to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Gila River Indian Community. Named for the prominent design feature of the hand-woven basketry of the Authum tribe, Whirlwind is the work of golf course architect Gary Panks. His design weaves the spirit and legacy of this ancient land into a marvelous test of golf. The Devil's Claw course features sweeping elevation changes and dramatic bunkering. The Cattail course complements the Devil's Claw, but lends a whole new flavor to this 36-hole masterpiece, with its rolling fairways accented by striking water features and deep canyons. Whirlwind promises a dynamic golf experience marked by spectacular landscaping, unrivaled course conditions, and genuine customer service.
21
Start:Arizona Science Center
Phoenix, Arizona·
4.0
(967) review
Located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center has been a hub for science and discovery for the community and visitors. Featuring more than 300 hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, a range of interactive online science content, the state-of-the-art Dorrance Planetarium, and the five-story Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater– Arizona Science Center offers programs for all ages. For further details, please visit azscience.org.
22
Start:Stand Up Live
Phoenix, Arizona·
3.5
(91) review
50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003-2321
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between Houston and Phoenix?
The distance is 1,185 miles
What's the travel time between Houston and Phoenix?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 20h 0m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Houston and Phoenix?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Phoenix?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Phoenix
What’s the weather like in Phoenix?
The weather in Phoenix is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Phoenix in January
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Weather in Phoenix in June
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Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Phoenix?
Plan your dream Phoenix trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
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Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in Houston?
We have a lot of great trip options for Houston! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you
