Ultimate Family Day Trip from Tempe to Payson: Trails, History, and Tasty Bites
Recently, my husband and I took our two toddlers on a delightful day trip from Tempe to Payson, packed with outdoor adventures. Just 1.5 hours away, this charming small town offers pine forests, vast open spaces, quirky eateries, and stunning mountains. Easy to navigate with friendly locals everywhere, Payson boasts abundant hiking trails—from gentle paths to challenging treks. Check our route on Google Maps for drive times between stops.
Breakfast kicked off our day at Great Harvest Bread Co., where everything is scratch-made without chemicals, artificial preservatives, or high-fructose corn syrup. My daughter and I savored a fresh cinnamon roll, my husband claimed his own (wise choice), and our one-year-old devoured a Morning Glory muffin—a heavenly blend of bran and carrot cake.
Refueled, we drove 20 minutes past Payson to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Nestled in a lush pine-filled valley, this is the world's largest natural travertine bridge. With young kids, we stuck to the top, exploring four scenic viewpoints with ample space to play and picnic tables. Open daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (last entry 4 p.m.), it's family-friendly perfection.
Hungry again, we lunched at Pinon Cafe near downtown Payson. This cozy diner delivers classic comfort food, stellar service, and kid crayons. I loved the breakfast sandwich on a homemade biscuit; my husband raved about his burger; kids demolished chicken strips. Affordable and casual—ideal for family meals.
Next, the Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin, steps from downtown. Dive into Rim Country's natural and cultural history at the museum. Adjacent is a 2005 replica of author Zane Grey's cabin (original lost in the 1990 Dude Fire), thanks to the Zane Grey Cabin Foundation. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors (55+), $3 students (12-18), free for kids under 12. Hours: Mon, Wed–Sat 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sun 1–4 p.m.
As afternoon waned, we headed back to Tempe during nap time, enjoying the scenic drive. Dinner awaited at RigaTony's Authentic Italian Restaurant in south Tempe—homemade dishes, top service, and kid-approved spaghetti. My lasagna was unbeatable; the namesake RigaTony (baked rigatoni with sausage and cheese) wowed my husband.
This relaxing Payson escape was a hit—kids want more! For a quick mountain getaway from Tempe, Payson delivers hiking, history, and hearty eats.
