Below is a three-day itinerary through some of the region’s most notable areas, including Superior, Globe, Miami, Kearny, and Oracle, including both can’t-miss stops along the way and a few hidden gems
This story was created in partnership with the Town of Cooper Corridor, Arizona.
Day 1: Phoenix → Superior
Start your road trip out of Phoenix and take a quick 50-minute drive to Superior. The drive takes less time than watching an episode of your favorite show, but the final destination of Superior will make you feel like you drove hours away with its quiet desert and dark skies.
Stop 1: Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Ease into your trip with a peaceful morning at Boyce Thompson Arboretum – Arizona’s largest and oldest botanical garden. Take a slow stroll among the cactuses, or lace up your shoes and hike the entire three-mile loop
Stop 2: Downtown Superior
Afterwards, head to downtown Superior for a bite to eat and a little local shopping. We recommend Bella’s Cafe, Jalapeños, Porter’s Saloon, or Silverking Smokehouse for lunch, or Gypsy Sister’s Coffee and El Barrio for a sweet treat.
After lunch, spend some time walking Superior’s shops, murals, and galleries or check out the LOST Trail if you’re looking to stretch your legs
Stop 3: Adrenaline Chasing
Get your heart pumping for the last stop of the day – choose between an ATV ride through the desert or catch a bird’s-eye view of Superior at Superior Soaring.
When it’s time to settle down for the night, either get a head start on tomorrow by staying in neighboring Globe, AZ, or stay the night right in Superior at the Magma Hotel (we’re not responsible for ghost encounters).
Day 2: Globe + Miami
Drive over the Top-of-the-World and check out two artsy towns on the south side of the Copper Corridor region.
Stop 1: Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum
Head to Bullion Plaza for an in-depth look into the history of the Copper Corridor – from its pivotal place in USA copper production, to Native American heritage, and much more.
After your tour, head downtown to explore local antique shops, Miami’s own meadery, and the huge collection of murals found throughout town.
Stop 2: Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park
Walk through partially restored Salado ruins dating to the 1200s. This area will give you an interesting look at how some of the first people in the area survived the harsh summer temperatures.
When it’s time for lunch, head to Globe’s downtown area for award-winning food. We especially love Nurd Burgers, Bloom Sushi, and Bravo!
Stop 3: Stairizona Art Trail + Downtown Globe
Get a first-hand look at the work of local artists by walking the Stairizona Trail right in town. Bring your walking shoes, and be ready to take plenty of photos as you walk past huge murals, colorful mosaics, and unique sculptures on the route.
More into shopping? Broad Street (and the surrounding area) has a ton of unique shops and small businesses, and the Pickle Barrel Trading Post is a must-see in town.
Day 3: Kearny + Oracle → Tucson
Explore unique desert landscapes and end your trip —-
Stop 1: Arizona Trail
Kearny is an official gateway to the Arizona Trail, an 800-mile thru-hiking route crossing the entire state. If you’re looking for one of the most unique experiences in Arizona, Old Time Pizza will deliver a pizza lunch right to the trailhead for you after your hike. Alternatively, you could spend the morning walking, fishing, or relaxing at Kearny Lake – a wonderful lake in the desert surrounded by towering saguaro cactuses.
Stop 2: Take in the Scenery
Soar over the desert with outstanding views of the Galiuro Mountains at Arizona Zipline Adventures, or take a hike along the Arizona Trail at the Tiger Mine Trailhead for a section of trail with sweeping Sonoran desert views.
Stop 3: Local Eats in Oracle
Take some time for lunch in Oracle, AZ. We love the Oracle Patio Café, Sue & Jerry’s Trading Post, Riot Cafe, and Café Indio
Stop 4: Visit the Oracle Lavender Farm
For your final activity, stop at Life Under The Oaks Lavender Farm to learn about lavender production and desert agriculture. They also have an adorable shop with locally made lavender goods that are perfect to bring back for friends and family.
Head Home
From Oracle, it’s an easy and scenic drive back to Phoenix or Tucson — a perfect ending to a trip that feels much farther from the crowds than it actually is.
