Basecamp Superior: Day Trips Through Arizona’s Copper Corridor
- Superior, Arizona
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Tucked between rugged mountains and desert wildlands, Superior, Arizona is more than just a charming small town—it's the perfect launching point for unforgettable day trips along the Copper Corridor. Whether you're craving natural beauty, old-school Americana, or creative energy, these nearby destinations offer something for everyone.
Don’t forget to explore Superior itself— from hiking trails and botanical gardens to vibrant art, dining, and local shops, this little town is packed with attractions that can easily fill a weekend (or more).
1. Miami – Murals, Mining & a Gold-Mine of Culture
Drive time from Superior: ~23 minutes
Step into a town where history and heritage are on every corner. Once a booming mining hub, Miami is now known for its rich culture, vintage charm, and a growing arts scene. Explore vibrant murals, browse antique shops, and dive into local stories at the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum, which highlights the area’s deep Mexican-American roots.
What brings people here? The food! Grab some great burros at Burger House, delicious Mexican fare at Guayo El Rey, mouth-watering burgers at Dick’s Chicken and some ice cream and espresso treats at The Lyric Soda Fountain.
Don’t miss: Strolling through downtown, snapping mural photos, and learning why Miami was once considered the crossroads of copper country.
2. Globe – Antique Shops & Artistic Finds
Drive time from Superior: ~35 minutes
Just a few minutes beyond Miami, Globe offers vintage vibes and a walkable downtown filled with antique stores, cafes, and galleries. The Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, housed in a stately old courthouse, is a must-see. Globe’s layered history and charming streetscapes make it perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploring.
Step back in time in Globe: Visit Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park, a partially reconstructed Salado pueblo that offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in the region from A.D. 1225 to A.D.1400.
2. Kearny – Rails, River & Recreation
Drive time from Superior: ~ 24 minutes
Nestled along the Gila River, Kearny offers peaceful scenery and a slower pace. Visit the Kearny Lake City Park for a picnic or stay overnight at the campground. History lovers will enjoy spotting trains along the Copper Basin Railway, which still moves ore and goods through the region.
Insider tip: Time your visit with local events like Kearny Pioneer Days which celebrates the old west when the pioneers traveled though the area along with modern fun for the whole fam.
3. Winkelman & Hayden – Gateway to Aravaipa Canyon
Drive time from Superior: ~ 36 minutes
At the meeting point of rugged canyons and desert rivers, Winkelman and Hayden offer a quiet window into Arizona’s copper past—and a wild, untamed future. These small towns are the closest jumping-off point for the stunning Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness, a protected area of towering cliffs, flowing streams, and rare desert wildlife. Permits are required, but the adventure is worth it.
Why go? Birdwatching, canyon hikes, and a rare chance to explore one of Arizona’s most pristine riparian habitats.
Photo op: Capture the vintage bridges over the Gila River, then lace up your boots for a hike into Aravaipa's wilderness magic.
4. San Manuel & Oracle – Mountains, Makers & Microclimates
Drive time from Superior: ~1 hour via AZ-177
Head south for cooler temps and creative surprises. San Manuel is a former mining town reinventing itself as a haven for off-roaders, mountain bikers, and makers. Oracle, just beyond, offers pine-dotted trails, artist studios, and funky dining spots. You’ll also find Biosphere 2, the famous Earth science research facility.
Local gem: Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm offers seasonal events, scenic picnic spots, and fragrant beauty under a canopy of oak trees—perfect for a peaceful detour.
Off the beaten path: Explore the Arizona Zipline Adventures just outside Oracle for family-friendly thrills.
Make Superior your basecamp. Stay the night in one of our locally owned hotels or Airbnbs and enjoy small-town hospitality at its best. So what are you waiting for? Book now and start planning your Copper Corridor adventure!
