Escape the Chaos of the Waste Management Phoenix Open - Take a Day Trip to Historic Wickenburg
In town for the Waste Management Phoenix Open?
If the crowds, noise, and nonstop energy have you craving a reset, take a day trip to Wickenburg, Arizona – a historic Western town with wide-open desert views, real cowboy culture, incredible shopping, BBQ, local art, and craft beer.
Less chaos – more Arizona.
Below are the Top 10 must-see experiences to build the perfect Wickenburg day trip while you’re in the Phoenix area for tournament week.
Top 10 Must-See Experiences in Wickenburg:
1) See Real Team Roping – Wickenburg’s Signature Sport
Wickenburg is one of Arizona’s true team roping hubs. Even if you’ve never watched roping before, seeing it live is fast, exciting, and unmistakably Western.
Catch the action at:
Local tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot and feel the energy build before the runs start.
2) Western Wear Shopping You’ll Actually Want to Bring Home
This is not “tourist Western.” Wickenburg shopping is authentic, curated, and full of standout finds.
Shop:
3) Antiquing and Vintage Treasure Hunting
If your group loves the thrill of the hunt, make time for Wickenburg’s antique and vintage scene.
Browse:
4) Horseback Riding Under the Arizona Sky
Want a true Arizona memory? Book a ride and experience the Sonoran Desert the classic way.
Ride with:
5) Offroad SXS Desert Adventures
Trade tournament crowds for open desert, big views, and a little adrenaline. Side-by-side rides are one of the most unforgettable ways to see the area.
Go with:
6) Golf + Day Spa – The Ultimate Reset
If your idea of escaping chaos is slowing down in style, this is your move.
Relax at:
Rancho De Los Caballeros (golf + spa)
7) BBQ Worth the Drive
Come hungry – Wickenburg’s BBQ is legit and always hits the spot after a day outside.
Eat at:
8) Craft Beer in Downtown Wickenburg
Wrap your day with a cold pint and an easygoing downtown vibe.
Stop at:
9) Step Into Western History
Wickenburg’s history is part of what makes the town feel real – not manufactured.
Visit:
10) Catch a Local Art Exhibition
Want something uniquely Wickenburg (and seriously photo-worthy)? Add an art stop to your day.
See:
Double Takes at the Wickenburg Art Center & Gallery – photography paired with local artwork inspired by the same image.
A Perfect “Escape the Chaos” Wickenburg Itinerary
Late Morning: Team roping stop (Rancho Rio or Roper Nation)
Midday: Downtown shopping (Serape Bleu, Seven Roan) + antiques
Lunch: BBQ (Hassayampa Smokehouse or Onery Hog BBQ)
Afternoon: Offroad SXS or horseback riding (Flying E Ranch)
Late Afternoon: Museum or Wickenburg Art Center & Gallery
Evening: Vulture Peak Brewery to close it out
Final Word
If the Waste Management Phoenix Open is your big event, let Wickenburg be your reset day – Western charm, desert adventure, and a slower pace that feels like the best side of Arizona.
