Your Summer Weekend Itinerary for Superior, Arizona
- Superior, Arizona
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Looking for a quick summer getaway with early morning adventure, shady trails, cool drinks, and a dash of small-town charm? Plan a trip to Superior, AZ — a desert escape where you can start your day with sunrise hikes, browse local shops, and cool off with sweet treats. Whether you’re coming for a day trip or a weekend, here’s how to enjoy the best of summer in Superior:
Start Early at Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Kick off your day at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden. To help you enjoy the desert beauty before the heat sets in, summer hours run from 6 AM to noon (Wednesday–Monday, closed Tuesdays) in June through August.
Plan ahead for special events that make the most of the cooler hours:
• Critter Crawl - Night Tour: Get a peek at the nocturnal side of the desert.
• Sunrise Hike: Walk the peaceful garden trails bathed in golden morning light.
You can check the full summer events lineup here: btarboretum.org/events
Hit the Trails: Legends of Superior Trails (LOST)
For even more outdoor fun, explore the Legends of Superior Trails (LOST) system. Start at the Picketpost Trailhead or hop on from downtown Superior for a sunrise or sunset trek. The views of the Upper Sonoran Desert are spectacular — especially in those early or late golden hours.
Tips for hiking in summer:
• Start early (or late) to avoid the midday heat.
• Bring lots of water and wear sun protection.
• Stick to marked trails and know your limits.
Cool Off Downtown
After your outdoor adventures, stroll through historic downtown Superior for some well-earned refreshments. You’ll find plenty of places to cool down and grab a treat:
• El Barrio Salty and Sweet — unique frozen treats and snacks
• The Gypsy Sisters Coffee & Tea — refreshing teas and a charming coffee shop atmosphere
• Mountainside Coffee — cool coffee drinks, smoothies and comfy Main Street vibes
• Felicia’s Ice Cream — Downtown ice cream shop with fun flavors
Taste What’s New at Bella’s Café
Bella’s Marketplace and Café is a local favorite and now offers expanded summer hours and menus!
• Thursdays: Open 11 AM to 6:30 PM with a delicious evening menu
• Fridays: 4 PM to 6:30 PM — perfect for an early dinner or bite before the music starts
• Saturdays: Breakfast from 8 AM to 11 AM
• Sundays: Breakfast from 8 AM to 1 PM
The menu changes weekly, so there’s always something fresh and tasty to try.
Saturday Market: Farm to Fantastic Farmers Market
If your visit lands on a Saturday, be sure to stop by the Superior Farm to Fantastic Farmers Market — moved indoors for summer at 165 Main St. inside the Chamber of Commerce building.
You’ll find:
• Local produce
• Handcrafted goods
• Artisan treats
• A cool, shaded shopping experience
First Saturdays: Free Music in Besich Park
For a perfect summer evening, visit on the First Saturday of the month to catch live music at Besich Park starting at 7 PM. Bring a camp chair, grab some local takeout, and enjoy a relaxing evening under the stars.
Friday Nights: Santa Maria Summer Nights at Silver King
If you’re looking for a little Friday night fun, head to Silver King Smokehouse & Saloon for their Santa Maria Summer Nights — happening every Friday starting at 5 PM.
Expect:
• Specialty BBQ and drinks
• Fun bar games
• Laid-back, lively atmosphere
Stay the Night and Make It a Weekend
Why not turn your day trip into a relaxing weekend? Superior has great options for overnight stays — so you can enjoy sunset hikes, Friday night fun, and Sunday breakfast all in one trip!
Stay in town at the charming Hotel Magma, book a cozy Airbnb, or bring your tent and enjoy dispersed camping near Picketpost Mountain. You’ll find all your lodging options here: superiorarizona.com/stay-the-night
Plan Your Summer Escape
From early morning trails to cool drinks and live music, Superior makes a great summer day trip or weekend destination. Pack your hiking shoes, bring your appetite, and come explore all that this small Arizona town has to offer this season!
