If you’re staying at the Best Western Sonora Inn & Suites your location near Nogales Arizona hotels puts a variety of memorable Southern Arizona day trips within easy reach. Whether you’re searching for best hotels in Nogales AZ, cheap hotels near Mexico border, or just planning a nature‑filled afternoon outside hotel Nogales AZ, these scenic drives and historic towns offer great escapes.
Top Scenic Drives Around Nogales
Patagonia–Sonoita Scenic Road (AZ‑82 & AZ‑83)
A ~52-mile drive winding through the Santa Cruz River Basin, from emerald grasslands to juniper-dotted hills and narrow canyons. It connects Nogales with Patagonia and Sonoita, a perfect route showcasing desert-to-mountain transitions and abundant birdlife at Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve.
Box Canyon Road Scenic Drive
This ~22-mile one‑way road from Nogales leads up into rolling grassland and high‑desert basins, offering panoramic views of the Santa Rita Mountains. Ideal for a quiet nature route just minutes from Best Western Sonora Inn Nogales.
Ruby Road Scenic Drive
A longer ~75-mile loop featuring ghost town ruins, occasional lakes, border‑country vistas, and rare desert wildlife. The mix of paved and light gravel makes it an adventurous side trip near Nogales Go Arizona.
Canelo Hills Scenic Loop
This ~52-mile loop west of Nogales reveals historic ranching landscapes, distant buttes, and expansive grasslands. A peaceful route that captures southeast Arizona’s ranching roots and hilltop vistas.
Harshaw Road Scenic Drive
A shorter, historic ~16-mile dirt‑and‑gravel route into mining country and shaded canyons lined by sycamore trees. A gem of local history and off-the-beaten‑path exploration near Nogales Go Arizona.
Charming Small Towns to Explore
Tumacácori & Mission San José de Tumacácori
Just north of Nogales, this National Historical Park preserves one of the oldest Spanish mission complexes in Arizona. Visitors can explore the Mission San José de Tumacácori, historic museum, interpretive center, and hike parts of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail.
Patagonia
Along AZ‑82 just north of Nogales, Patagonia is a scenic, artsy small town filled with galleries, thoughtful restaurants, and nature trails. The Patagonia Train Track Trail and nearby bird preserve invite a relaxed, outdoor stop to pair with the drive Just a Little Further.
Bisbee
Around 90 miles southeast near Tucson, Bisbee is an architecture-rich, artist-friendly mining town in the Mule Mountains. Known for its stair-lined streets, vintage charm, and scenic views, it’s perfect for a longer day trip from Nogales .
Why These Routes Are Perfect with Your Nogales Hotel Stay
- Convenient access from Best Western Nogales, Best Western Sonora Inn & Suites, or other hotels in Nogales AZ near the border.
- Variety: desert basins, historic mining roads, high grasslands, mission ruins, and hillside towns—all within 1–2 hours drive.
- Blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and small-town ambiance—ideal for guests seeking day‑long outings from Nogales AZ hotels.
Itinerary Ideas
| Day Trip | Distance from Hotel | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Patagonia–Sonoita Scenic Road & Patagonia town | ~20–30 min drive north | Grasslands, mountain views, birding at Patagonia Preserve, small‑town shopping |
| Tumacácori National Historical Park | ~10 min north | Historic mission churches, museum, Anza Trail, interpretive center |
| Box Canyon Road | ~5–10 min drive | Quiet scenic road into high desert, mountain vistas |
| Ruby Road Loop | ~1 hr | Desert lakes, ghost town remnants, wildlife |
| Bisbee (longer day) | ~2 hrs | Arts district, Mule Mountain vistas, galleries, historic streets |
Planning Tips for Day Trips
- Start early, especially if driving into open desert routes or heading to Patagonia or Bisbee—cooler morning hours offer best light and wildlife spotting.
- Pack essentials: water, sun protection, binoculars for birding, and snacks. Some rural roads have minimal services.
- Respect historical sites: at Tumacácori, visitors should stay on designated paths and read signage at the visitor center.
- Combine attractions: a shared trip from Best Western Nogales AZ could pair a mission visit with wildlife roadstop or a town stroll.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How far are these excursions from Best Western Sonora Inn & Suites?
A1: Most are within 5–60 miles. Tumacácori is just north of Nogales, Patagonia 20–30 miles away; Bisbee is ~90 miles southeast for a longer day.
Q2: Are scenic drives suitable for all vehicles?
A2: Most drives are on paved or lightly graveled roads. Routes like Harshaw or parts of Ruby Road may be rough but accessible in most cars if driven carefully.
Q3: Can I combine multiple stops in one day?
A3: Yes—Tumacácori + Patagonia is an excellent combo within a single outing. Bisbee requires more travel time.
Q4: When is the best time of year?
A4: Spring and fall offer mild weather and wildflowers. Early mornings yield best bird activity and lighting along scenic roads.
Q5: Is cash needed for any stops?
A5: There are no entrance fees for scenic roads or Tumacácori Park. Dining in small towns may require cash at local cafes.
Q6: Do I need reservations for the mission or town museums?
A6: The Tumacácori visitor center and museum allow walk-ins. Guided tours to other mission sites may require prior booking.
Conclusion
From your base at Best Western Nogales—whether you call it Best Western Sonora Inn & Suites, hotel Nogales AZ, or check other hotels in Nogales AZ near the border—Southern Arizona’s scenic drives and small towns deliver unforgettable day trips. Explore dramatic landscapes on routes like Patagonia–Sonoita Scenic Road, step back in time at Mission Tumacácori, and wander vibrant towns like Patagonia or Bisbee. These drives offer cultural stories, desert beauty, and easy access from your Nogales hotel stay.
