Your Phoenix to Globe Day Trip at a Glance
Ready to trade the city bustle for a journey into Arizona’s authentic Old West? This quick guide gives you everything you need to know for the perfect day trip to historic Globe.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Phoenix | Approx. 87 miles (one way) |
| Driving Time | 1.5 – 2 hours (one way) |
| Estimated Day Cost (2025) | $50 – $100 per person (gas, food, one attraction) |
| Best Time to Visit | October – May (avoiding peak summer heat) |
| Vibe | Historic, Old West, Mining Town, Archaeological |
Why Choose a Globe Day Trip Over the Grand Canyon?
We see you searching: “Can you take a day trip to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix?” While it’s technically possible, it’s an exhausting marathon. A day trip to the Grand Canyon involves a grueling 7-8+ hours of driving, leaving you with precious little time to actually experience the wonder before you have to turn back. It’s rushed, crowded, and tiring.
Enter Globe. This historic mining town offers a rich, fascinating, and manageable day trip that’s packed with character. Instead of spending your day in the car, you’ll spend it exploring 800-year-old ruins, walking down a street straight out of a Western film, and soaking up authentic Arizona heritage. For a truly enjoyable and relaxing day away from Phoenix, Globe is the hidden gem you’ve been looking for.
How to Get to Globe from Phoenix
Getting to Globe is part of the adventure! The journey is straightforward and scenic, making it an enjoyable part of your day.
The only practical way to make this day trip work is by car. The drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way, primarily along the US-60 East. As you leave the Phoenix metro area, the landscape transforms into rugged Sonoran Desert beauty. A key highlight of the drive is passing through the historic Queen Creek Tunnel, a true marvel of engineering carved through the mountain. For plant lovers, an optional but highly recommended stop is the world-renowned Boyce Thompson Arboretum right off the highway.
| Method | Time (One Way) | Cost (Round Trip, Est. 2025) | Feasibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Car | 1.5 – 2 hours | $20 – $30 (Gas) | Excellent. Flexible, scenic, and highly recommended. |
| Public Transit | N/A | N/A | Not feasible for a day trip. Service is too limited for a same-day return. |
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Globe Day Trip
Globe is brimming with history and charm. Here are the must-see attractions to build your perfect day around.
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Step Back in Time at Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park
Immerse yourself in the world of the ancient Salado culture at this incredible 800-year-old pueblo. Besh-Ba-Gowah, which means “place of metal” in the Apache language, features partially restored rooms you can enter, a fascinating museum filled with one of the largest collections of Salado pottery, and a lovely ethno-botanical garden. It’s an intimate and powerful connection to Arizona’s deep past.
- Location: 1324 S Jesse Hayes Rd, Globe, AZ 85501
- Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Always verify online before visiting!
- Price: Adults: $5, Seniors: $4, Children (12 & under): Free.
- Pro-Tip: Allow at least 90 minutes to fully explore the ruins and the museum. The self-guided tour is excellent.
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Wander Historic Broad Street
Walking down Broad Street is like stepping onto a movie set. This is the heart of historic Globe, lined with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Pop into unique antique shops, browse local art at the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts (housed in the former Gila County Courthouse), and simply soak in the Old West atmosphere. It’s a photographer’s dream.
- Location: Broad Street, Downtown Globe, AZ
- Price: Free to walk and explore.
- Pro-Tip: Look for the historic plaques on many of the buildings to learn about their original purpose, from old saloons to banks.
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Visit the Gila County Historical Museum
Housed in a former mine rescue station, this charming museum tells the story of Globe’s rugged mining and ranching heritage. Discover fascinating exhibits on the region’s geology, see impressive mineral collections, and learn about the pioneers who shaped this corner of Arizona. It’s a quick but essential stop for anyone interested in the area’s history.
- Location: 1330 N Broad St, Globe, AZ 85501
- Hours: Typically Thursday – Saturday. Hours can vary, so check their website or call ahead.
- Price: Free admission, but donations are warmly welcomed.
- Pro-Tip: This is a great way to spend 30-45 minutes learning the context behind the town you’re exploring.
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Peek into the Old Gila County Jail & Sheriff’s Office
For a touch of spooky, authentic history, don’t miss this stop. The old jail, built in 1910, is a stark reminder of frontier justice. While you can’t always go inside without a special tour, it’s an incredibly photogenic building from the outside and is allegedly haunted. It perfectly captures the rough-and-tumble spirit of Globe’s past.
- Location: 177 E Oak St, Globe, AZ 85501
- Hours: Viewable from the outside anytime. Check with the local visitor center for tour availability.
- Price: Free.
- Pro-Tip: The contrast between the imposing stone jail and the blue Arizona sky makes for a fantastic photo opportunity.
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(Optional Stop) Explore Boyce Thompson Arboretum
While not technically in Globe, this is a must-do if you have extra time. Located on your route (US-60 near Superior), this is Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Stroll through stunning landscapes showcasing desert plants from across the globe. The Wallace Desert Garden and the High Trail offer breathtaking views.
- Location: 37615 E Arboretum Way, Superior, AZ 85173
- Hours: Varies by season, typically open daily. Check their website for current times.
- Price: Around $25 for adults.
- Pro-Tip: Plan for an additional 2-3 hours in your schedule if you add this stop. It’s worth every minute, especially in the spring when everything is in bloom.
Sample One-Day Itinerary: Phoenix to Globe
Use this schedule as a template to structure your perfect day exploring Globe and its surroundings. Adjust as needed based on your interests!
- 8:00 AM: Depart from the Phoenix area. Grab a coffee and hit the road to beat any traffic.
- 9:00 AM: Optional Stop: Arrive at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Spend two hours wandering the beautiful trails.
- 11:30 AM: Arrive in Globe. Drive directly to Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park to explore before lunch.
- 1:00 PM: Head to Historic Downtown for lunch. We recommend La Casita Cafe for authentic Mexican food.
- 2:30 PM: Time to explore! Wander down Broad Street, visit the Gila County Historical Museum, and snap photos of the Old Gila County Jail.
- 4:30 PM: Grab a refreshing drink or coffee at Bloom to recharge before the drive home.
- 6:30 PM: Arrive back in the Phoenix area, filled with memories of Arizona’s rich history.
Where to Eat in Globe, AZ
From quirky burger joints to classic Sonoran cuisine, Globe’s food scene is a delightful surprise. Here are a few local favorites:
Nurd Berger ($$)
A must-visit for its fun, nerdy theme and seriously delicious burgers. The creative combinations and hand-spun milkshakes make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
La Casita Cafe (“The Little House”) ($$)
Serving the community for decades, this charming spot offers authentic Sonoran-style Mexican food in a historic, cozy setting. A true Globe institution.
The Huddle ($)
If you’re looking for a classic American diner experience, this is your place. Perfect for a hearty, budget-friendly breakfast or lunch where you can mingle with the locals.
Insider Tips for Your Trip
Make your 2025 day trip as smooth as possible with these essential tips:
- Check Hours Before You Go! This is the most important tip. Many shops and museums in Globe are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your trip for Wednesday through Saturday for the best experience.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a fair amount of walking, especially around downtown and at Besh-Ba-Gowah.
- Stay Hydrated: This is Arizona! Always carry a reusable water bottle, especially if you’re visiting between late spring and early fall.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty on stretches of US-60 and in the mountains. Download the Globe area map on your phone before you leave.
- Bring Cash: While most places accept cards, some of the smaller antique shops or vendors might be cash-only.
What to Pack for a Day Trip to Globe
Pack light but smart for a comfortable and prepared adventure.
- [ ] Reusable Water Bottle
- [ ] Sunscreen
- [ ] Hat and Sunglasses
- [ ] Comfortable Walking Shoes
- [ ] Camera or Smartphone
- [ ] Portable Charger/Power Bank
- [ ] Light Jacket (for cooler evenings or winter visits)
- [ ] Snacks for the car
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person, 2025)
A day trip to Globe can be very affordable. Here’s a sample breakdown to help you plan.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (shared) | $10 – $15 | $10 – $15 |
| Lunch | $15 – $20 | $20 – $30 |
| Attractions | $5 (Besh-Ba-Gowah) | $30 (B-B-G + Arboretum) |
| Coffee/Snacks | $5 | $10 |
| TOTAL | $35 – $55 | $70 – $85 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Globe, AZ worth visiting?
Absolutely. If you love history, Old West charm, and unique archaeology, Globe is a fantastic and underrated day trip from Phoenix. It offers a genuine glimpse into Arizona’s rich mining past without the overwhelming crowds of other destinations.
How long does it take to get to Globe from Phoenix?
The drive from Phoenix to Globe typically takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, covering about 87 miles on the scenic US-60 highway.
Can you take a day trip to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix?
While it’s technically possible, a day trip to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix is extremely long and rushed. It involves at least 7-8 hours of driving round-trip, leaving very little time to enjoy the park. For a more relaxed and manageable day trip, destinations like Globe are a much better option.
Is it worth driving from Phoenix to Grand Canyon for a day?
Most travelers find that driving from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is not worth it for just a single day due to the extensive travel time. It is much better suited for an overnight trip. A Phoenix to Globe day trip, in contrast, maximizes your time exploring and minimizes your time in the car, making it a far more rewarding experience.
TL;DR: Your Globe Day Trip Summary
Don’t have time to read it all? Here’s the scoop: Globe is a fantastic, easy day trip from Phoenix (1.5-2 hours drive). It’s perfect for history buffs and anyone seeking an authentic Old West experience. Don’t miss the Besh-Ba-Gowah ruins and historic Broad Street. Plan your trip for Thursday-Saturday, as many places are closed early in the week. Forget the exhausting 8-hour round trip to the Grand Canyon for a day; Globe offers more discovery with less driving.
