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By Huuk Team

Road trip from San Jose to Tucson

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ITINERARY

15h 13m829 miles18 stops
1
Wildlife Learning Center
16027 Yarnell St Sylmar, Los Angeles, CA 91342-1011
2
Gloria Molina Grand Park
227 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012-3201
3
Ryan Bonaminio Park
5000 Tequesquite Ave, Riverside, CA 92506
4
The Brickwood Tavern
3653 Main St, Riverside, CA 92501-2838
5
Van Buren Drive-In Theatre
3035 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92503-5656
6
Hangar Trampoline Park
12125 Day St Ste A201 Canyon Springs Plaza North of Hwy 60, Riverside, CA 92557-6703
7
Whitewater Preserve
9160 Whitewater Canyon Rd Whitewater, Riverside, CA 92282-2102
8
Stand Up Live
50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003-2321
9
Arizona Science Center
600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004-2303
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.
10
Makutu's Island
6919 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-1769
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.
11
Whirlwind Golf Club
5692 W North Loop Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5268
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.
12
Escape the Room
3157 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5168
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!
13
Omni Tucson National Resort Golf Course
2727 W Club Dr, Tucson, AZ 85742-9766
This golf course is the home of the PGA Northern Telecom Open.
14
Gates Pass
Gates Pass Road, Tucson, AZ 85743
15
Cactus Forest Trail
Saguaro National Park, Tucson, AZ 85743
16
Presidio San Agustin Del Tucson Museum
196 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701-1002
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.
17
Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
1601 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719
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.
18
Golf N' Stuff Family Fun Center
6503 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715-3812
Customize this Trip

OVERVIEW

Get ready for an adventure as we embark on a thrilling road trip from the vibrant city of San Jose to the captivating desert landscape of Tucson! Along the way, we'll traverse diverse terrains, encounter charming towns, and soak in the breathtaking scenery that California, Arizona, and Nevada have to offer.

Our journey will take us through towering mountains, sprawling valleys, and vast deserts, each with its unique character and allure. We'll have the chance to explore hidden gems, discover local flavors, and learn about the rich history and culture that these regions possess. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this road trip promises an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.

As we navigate the winding roads and open highways, we'll create lasting memories and capture the spirit of the American Southwest. From exploring national parks to indulging in local cuisine, this journey will ignite your sense of wonder and leave you yearning for more. So buckle up, get your cameras ready, and join us on an extraordinary adventure from San Jose to Tucson!

1
Start:Wildlife Learning Center
Los Angeles, California·
4.5
(88) review
16027 Yarnell St Sylmar, Los Angeles, CA 91342-1011
2
Gloria Molina Grand Park
Los Angeles, California·
4.5
(98) review
227 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012-3201
3
Ryan Bonaminio Park
Riverside, California·
4.5
(8) review
5000 Tequesquite Ave, Riverside, CA 92506
4
The Brickwood Tavern
Riverside, California·
5.0
(9) review
3653 Main St, Riverside, CA 92501-2838
5
Van Buren Drive-In Theatre
Riverside, California·
4.5
(81) review
3035 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92503-5656
6
Hangar Trampoline Park
Riverside, California·
5.0
(8) review
12125 Day St Ste A201 Canyon Springs Plaza North of Hwy 60, Riverside, CA 92557-6703
7
Whitewater Preserve
Riverside, California·
4.5
(66) review
9160 Whitewater Canyon Rd Whitewater, Riverside, CA 92282-2102
8
Stand Up Live
Phoenix, Arizona·
3.5
(91) review
50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003-2321
9
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.
600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004-2303
10
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.
6919 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-1769
11
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.
5692 W North Loop Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5268
12
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!
3157 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85226-5168
13
Omni Tucson National Resort Golf Course
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(95) review
This golf course is the home of the PGA Northern Telecom Open.
2727 W Club Dr, Tucson, AZ 85742-9766
14
Gates Pass
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(952) review
Gates Pass Road, Tucson, AZ 85743
15
Cactus Forest Trail
Tucson, Arizona·
4.5
(9) review
Saguaro National Park, Tucson, AZ 85743
16
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.
196 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701-1002
17
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.
1601 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719
18
Golf N' Stuff Family Fun Center
Tucson, Arizona·
4.0
(91) review
6503 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715-3812

CHECKLIST

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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between San Jose and Tucson?
The distance is 829 miles
What's the travel time between San Jose and Tucson?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 15h 13m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between San Jose and Tucson?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Tucson?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Tucson
What’s the weather like in Tucson?
The weather in Tucson is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Tucson in January
Weather in Tucson in February
Weather in Tucson in March
Weather in Tucson in April
Weather in Tucson in May
Weather in Tucson in June
Weather in Tucson in July
Weather in Tucson in August
Weather in Tucson in September
Weather in Tucson in October
Weather in Tucson in November
Weather in Tucson in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Tucson?
Plan your dream Tucson trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Tucson
A 2-day itinerary in Tucson
A 3-day itinerary in Tucson
A 4-day itinerary in Tucson
A 5-day itinerary in Tucson
A 6-day itinerary in Tucson
Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in San Jose?
We have a lot of great trip options for San Jose! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you