With gas prices skyrocketing, the thought of taking a summer vacation might make you sweat more than the Arizona heat. But you don’t have to travel far from home to escape from it all or have a thrilling adventure.
The Copper Courier, a publication owned by Courier Newsroom, has rounded up a group of Arizona staycation destinations that feel miles away from even if they’re a skip away from your backyard.
Emerald Cave Kayak Tour
Where: Willow Beach, AZ 86445
How much: $60
Did you know that you could hop in a Kayak and explore glistening cave systems… in Arizona!? Certainly one of the most thrilling escapes, this kayaking excursion satisfies the need to beat the heat and explore natural wonders.
On the way to the caves, you’ll paddle along 5000 ft. cliffs—truly a humbling experience. Wildlife sightings are also common. Don’t miss this Arizona staycation.
Arcosanti Guided Tour
Where: 13555 S. Cross L Rd., Mayer, AZ 86333
How much: $20
This old hippie commune (ahem,… experimental living community) from the 1970s is now a pilgrimage site for architecture and nature lovers. The Copper Courier, a Courier Newsroom publication, reports that the unique structures were designed by The Cosanti Foundation to achieve a balance with the natural environment,
During a visit to Arcosanti, you can enjoy guided tours, hiking paths, and a cafe. There are also campsites nearby to extend your staycation into a full-blown getaway.
Happy Hooves Farm
Where: 15220 N. 27th St., Phoenix, AZ 85032
How much: $29
Need an escape from politics and pandemics? Once you take a gander at the adorable miniature horses at Happy Hooves Farm, you won’t be able to do anything but smile. Happy Hooves is a non-profit organization that cares for mini-horses and mini-ponies.
During a day on the farm, you’ll get to pet, groom, and hang out with your new pony pals.
French Crêpes Cooking Class
Where: Chef Arthur’s home in Paradise Valley
How much: $65
You might not be able to take a selfie with the Eiffel Tower this summer, but you can still eat like you’re on the Champs Elysées.
Learn how to make and serve crêpes from a real French chef—a skill that you can use to wow guests at many future brunches. Your stay at Chef Arthur’s home also includes an all-you-can-eat crêpe buffet and your own batch of crêpe batter to take home.
Plumb Creek Alpaca Tour
Where: 8260 E. Plum Creek Way, Prescott Valley, AZ 86315
How much: $13
Ever wanted to spend a day with alpacas? These uber-soft and cuddly animals are the star attractions of the Plumb Creek Alpaca Tour. The tour takes place on an alpaca farm, so you’re sure to get an up-close and personal experience with adult and baby alpacas. The farm is also home to chickens, ducks, turkeys, and friendly dogs. This is a wonderful excursion for families with children!
Shamanic Journey in Sedona Vortex
Where: The excursion begins at Whole Foods: 1420 W. state Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
How much: $111
A spiritual journey can feel like more of an escape than a trip around the globe. The Shamanic Journey in Sedona Vortex is a guided tour into the vortexes of Arizona. These areas are known for having strong energy.
According to The Copper Courier, owned by Courier Newsroom, the tour is led by a shaman and reiki master. She helps you open your mind to the energy vortexes in order to release stress and experience cosmic healing. This is an eye-opening and potentially life-changing experience.
K-Pop Dance Workshop
Where: 1810 W. Baseline Rd. #2, Mesa, AZ 85202
How much: $10
You know you love K-pop. Stop pretending you don’t, and embrace your K-love by attending this K-pop dance workshop in Mesa. Learn the moves from a real K-pop choreography instructor who coached in Tokyo for two years. During the hour-long sessions, you’ll learn to do choreographed K-pop dances to your favorite tracks by groups like Blackpink and EXO.
This story originally appeared in The Copper Courier, a publication owned by Courier Newsroom.
https://coppercourier.com/story/7-arizona-family-budget-staycations/?
Check more articles: