Parker

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Parker's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, savoring classic American pancakes and coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the vintage architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the local museum to learn about Parker's rich history and cultural heritage.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a riverside café, where you can indulge in fresh fish tacos while soaking in the views of the Colorado River. Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, stopping to take photos of the scenic landscapes and wildlife. Visit the local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a popular local brewery for a tasting of craft beers brewed right in Parker. Enjoy the lively atmosphere while sharing a plate of nachos with friends or family. Wrap up the evening with a casual stroll along the river, enjoying the cool breeze and the beautiful night sky.

day 2
Adventure at Lake Havasu
morning
:

Begin your day with a drive to the stunning Lake Havasu, just a short distance from Parker. Upon arrival, grab breakfast at a lakeside café, where you can enjoy a delicious omelet while taking in the views of the water. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters and admire the surrounding scenery.

afternoon
:

For lunch, have a picnic on the beach, enjoying sandwiches and refreshing drinks while basking in the sun. Spend the afternoon swimming and soaking up the sun, or join in on a jet ski rental for an adrenaline-pumping experience on the lake. Don't forget to take a break and relax under a shaded cabana, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

evening
:

As the day winds down, grab dinner at a waterfront restaurant with a view of the iconic London Bridge. Savor a seafood feast while watching the sunset over the lake, painting the sky in vibrant colors. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the lively ambiance created by street performers and fellow visitors.

day 3
Desert Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a cozy café known for its homemade pastries and fresh coffee. After fueling up, head out to the nearby desert wildlife sanctuary for a guided tour, where you'll learn about the unique flora and fauna native to the region. Keep your camera ready as you spot desert bighorn sheep and various bird species in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch in the sanctuary's picnic area, surrounded by breathtaking desert landscapes. After lunch, take part in an educational workshop where you can learn about desert conservation efforts and how to protect these fragile ecosystems. Spend the afternoon hiking along designated trails, taking in the stunning desert vistas and capturing memorable photos.

evening
:

For dinner, return to Parker and treat yourself to a meal at a restaurant specializing in Southwestern cuisine. Enjoy dishes like enchiladas and chili while reflecting on your day surrounded by the beauty of the desert. Cap off the night with a stargazing session, as the clear desert skies provide an unobstructed view of the stars.

day 4
Cultural Immersion at Local Festivals
morning
:

Start the day by visiting a local farmer's market, where you can grab a fresh breakfast burrito and sample locally grown produce. Engage with friendly vendors and learn about the agricultural practices that sustain the community. Afterward, explore the market for unique crafts and artisanal goods to take home as souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Attend a cultural festival happening in Parker, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions, music, and dance. Enjoy lunch from food trucks offering a variety of international cuisines, providing a taste of the cultural diversity in the area. Participate in workshops to learn traditional crafts like pottery or weaving, gaining insight into the local artistry.

evening
:

As the festival continues into the evening, find a spot to enjoy live music performances by local bands and artists. Savor dinner from the festival's food stalls, sampling dishes from different cultures. Conclude your evening by joining a community dance, where you can connect with locals and experience the vibrant spirit of Parker.

day 5
Outdoor Adventure at Parker Dam
morning
:

Fuel your day with a breakfast at a local café before heading out to Parker Dam, one of the key attractions in the area. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the dam to learn about its history and engineering marvels. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Colorado River as you stroll along the scenic pathways around the dam.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas near the dam, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon hiking nearby trails that offer stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a boat to explore the waters and perhaps even try fishing.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Parker for dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring a meal with fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the serene ambiance as you reflect on a day filled with adventure and exploration. After dinner, take a relaxed walk along the riverbank, enjoying the cool evening air and the sounds of nature.

day 6
Relaxing Spa Day
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local bistro that offers healthy options and freshly squeezed juices. After breakfast, head to a nearby spa for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. Start with a soothing massage to relieve any built-up stress and tension from your travels.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a light lunch at the spa's café, featuring fresh salads and herbal teas to keep you feeling revitalized. Follow your meal with a facial or body treatment, indulging in local beauty products that highlight the region's natural ingredients. Spend the afternoon lounging by the spa’s pool or enjoying a meditation session.

evening
:

As your spa day comes to a close, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at a fine dining restaurant in Parker. Relish dishes that showcase local flavors and ingredients, perfectly paired with regional wines. Wind down your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on a day dedicated to self-care and relaxation.

day 7
Exploring Local Art and Music Scene
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café known for its artistic decor and vibrant atmosphere. After enjoying your meal, visit a nearby art gallery showcasing works by local artists, immersing yourself in the creative spirit of Parker. Engage with gallery owners and artists to learn about their inspirations and techniques.

afternoon
:

For lunch, choose a trendy eatery that features art-inspired dishes, offering a perfect blend of flavor and creativity. Spend the afternoon exploring local street art and murals, taking your time to appreciate the artistic expressions scattered throughout the town. Consider joining a workshop or class to try your hand at a creative endeavor, such as painting or pottery.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local venue hosting live music or an open mic night, where you can enjoy performances by both established and emerging artists. Indulge in dinner and drinks while soaking up the lively atmosphere that Parker’s music scene has to offer. Conclude the evening by mingling with locals and discussing the vibrant arts community in the area.

day 8
Fishing and Water Sports Fun
morning
:

Kick off the day with breakfast at a local café, fueling up with hearty portions to prepare for an active day on the water. After breakfast, gather your fishing gear and head to the Colorado River for an exciting day of fishing. Enjoy the peacefulness of the river as you cast your line and await a catch.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy on the riverbank, surrounded by the natural beauty of Parker. After lunch, switch gears and rent jet skis or a boat to explore the river, creating waves of excitement and fun. Feel the thrill of the water sports as you race across the river and take in the scenic views from the water.

evening
:

Return to shore for dinner at a popular riverside restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish prepared to perfection. Share stories about your fishing adventures while savoring delicious local cuisine. As the evening cools down, enjoy a bonfire by the river, roasting marshmallows and reminiscing about the day’s fun.

day 9
Historical Sites and Scenic Drives
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local diner, enjoying classic American fare while chatting with friendly locals. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through the surrounding desert, taking in the stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Stop at historical landmarks along the way to learn about the region's rich mining and Native American history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch at a beautiful viewpoint, soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Continue your drive, stopping at points of interest where you can explore old mining towns and learn about their significance. Capture memorable photos of the historic sites and striking desert vistas.

evening
:

Return to Parker for a relaxed dinner at a charming restaurant that serves hearty comfort food. Reflect on your day of exploration while enjoying the warm ambiance of the local eatery. End the evening with a leisurely walk through the historic downtown area, appreciating the beauty of Parker under the stars.

Discover Parker

Read more in our Parker 2025 Travel Guide.

Parker Travel Guide