Holiday Road Trips: Budget-Friendly Adventures You Can Take This Season
Whether you're craving snowy mountains, sandy beaches, or small-town holiday charm, we've mapped out the perfect holiday getaways. And if your car’s not quite road-trip-ready, Hughes Federal Credit Union’s One Low Rate™ auto loan can help you upgrade your wheels without denting your wallet. Ready to roll? Here’s where to go:
Tucson to Sedona: Red Rocks, Blue Skies, and Holiday Magic
Why Visit?
There’s something about Sedona that feels otherworldly, like you've stepped into a postcard where the rocks are redder, the skies are bluer, and the holiday spirit practically hums in the air. When winter rolls around, Sedona is a dreamy wonderland of towering red rocks and cool, crisp air that’ll make you feel like you’ve found a secret desert oasis—minus the summer heat.
What to Do:
- Hike Cathedral Rock: Hiking Cathedral Rock is like a rite of passage. The trail may be short, but the views are off-the-charts stunning. Watch the sun sink behind the red rocks, casting long shadows and golden light—it’s a sunset you’ll want to frame on your wall.
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village: Want to wander cobblestone streets under twinkling lights like in a Nora Ephron movie, shopping for handmade holiday treasures? At Tlaquepaque, you can do exactly that, with festive events and live music adding extra holiday cheer.
- Budget Tip: Sedona’s beauty is free—bring a picnic, park at a scenic overlook, and enjoy a gourmet meal with million-dollar views. No restaurant required.
Tucson to Bisbee: Quirky Charm and Small-Town Vibes
Why Visit?
If you’re the kind of person who loves discovering places that feel a little offbeat and a lot quirky, Bisbee’s calling your name. This artsy, bohemian town tucked into the mountains feels like stepping back in time—but with an artsy twist. During the holidays, Bisbee’s funky charm only gets better, with old-fashioned decorations, twinkling lights, and a dash of magic in the mountain air.
What to Do:
- Main Street Stroll: Forget the cookie-cutter shops. In Bisbee, every shop is as unique as the town itself. From eclectic art galleries to vintage stores, you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts you didn’t even know you were looking for.
- Queen Mine Tour: Descend into the depths of an actual copper mine, complete with hard hats and stories of Bisbee’s mining past. It’s the perfect blend of history and adventure.
- Budget Tip: Many of Bisbee’s best spots are free or low-cost. Walk the streets, snap some pics, and take in the quirky atmosphere. Plus, Bisbee’s small inns and B&Bs offer affordable and cozy overnight stays.
Tucson to San Diego: Beachside Holidays with a Twist
Why Visit?
Want to trade snow for sand this holiday season? San Diego’s where it’s at. Go ice skating by the ocean, wander through a holiday festival in Balboa Park, and end the day with your toes in the sand. San Diego during the holidays is all about combining sunshine with festive fun, making it a perfect escape if you’re craving something different.
What to Do:
- December Nights at Balboa Park: Think holiday lights, live music, food from around the world, and endless holiday cheer. Balboa Park’s December Nights is a two-day festival that’ll get even the biggest Grinch into the holiday spirit.
- Beach Day: While it won’t be the warmest, yes, you can still have a beach day during the holidays. Whether you’re just walking along the shore or actually brave enough to take a dip, the beach is calling.
- Budget Tip: Skip the tourist traps and grab tacos from a local taqueria. San Diego has some of the best street food around, and it won’t cost you much more than a few bucks for a mouthwatering meal.
Tucson to Flagstaff: Winter Wonderland, Arizona Style
Distance: 275 miles (approx. 5 hours)
Why Visit?
If you're dreaming of snow-dusted pines and cozy mountain vibes while you’re snuggled up near a fire, Flagstaff is the answer to your holiday wishes. With its mountain air, ski slopes, and twinkling lights, Flagstaff turns into a holiday wonderland, giving you all the winter feels without leaving Arizona.
What to Do:
- Arizona Snowbowl: If skiing or snowboarding is on your bucket list, Arizona Snowbowl delivers. Spend the day carving down the slopes and soaking in the views—you can even see the Grand Canyon from the top!
- Holiday Lights: Flagstaff goes all out with its holiday light displays. Grab a hot drink, bundle up, and take a walking tour of the town’s beautifully lit downtown. It’s like walking through a snow globe.
- Budget Tip: Pack your own snacks and hot chocolate in a thermos to save on pricey lodge food. You’ll get to enjoy the slopes without the sticker shock.
Tucson to Prescott: Arizona’s Christmas City
Why Visit?
If you want to dive headfirst into holiday spirit, Prescott is your place. Known as Arizona’s Christmas City, this small mountain town embraces the holidays with a passion. See lights on every building, trees wrapped in garland, and festive events that’ll get you feeling like a kid on Christmas morning. Did we mention it has the world’s largest gingerbread village?
What to Do:
- Courthouse Lighting Ceremony: Prescott’s Courthouse Lighting Ceremony is like something straight out of a Hallmark movie. With thousands of lights illuminating the historic courthouse, it’s pure holiday magic.
- Acker Night: Combine live music with holiday shopping, and you’ve got Acker Night. Wander downtown Prescott and pop into local shops while musicians play holiday tunes in every corner.
- Budget Tip: Many of Prescott’s holiday events are free, so you can enjoy the lights, music, and festive spirit without spending a dime. Bring your camera—this town is seriously photogenic.Holiday Road Trip Hacks for the Win
No holiday road trip is complete without some clever tips to keep things running smoothly. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Skip the overpriced gas station snacks and pack your own. Try homemade trail mix, sandwiches, or fresh fruit for easy, budget-friendly fuel.
- Keep the festive vibes going on the road. Curate a playlist that mixes classic holiday hits with your favorite road trip anthems. Think Mariah Carey meets Tom Petty.
- Keep your mind entertained with podcasts like “The Moth” for great stories, or dive into “How I Built This” if you're feeling inspired by entrepreneurs. It’ll make the miles fly by.
Holiday travel doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With these budget-friendly road trips, you can make the most of the season and create memories that’ll last long after the holiday lights come down. And if upgrading your car is on your wish list this year, Hughes Federal Credit Union’s One Low Rate™ auto loan is here to help you get our best deal—no matter your credit score.