Route map
Start / endStopsHalfway
Phoenix to Tucson: the drive
The drive from Phoenix to Tucson covers 113 miles (182 km) and takes about 1 hr 45 min without stops, mostly on I-10 and I-17.
It's an easy drive that leaves plenty of time to explore along the way. Allow about 2 hr 15 min with breaks.
We found 3 worthwhile stops within about 25 miles of the route, including Picacho Peak State Park, Biosphere 2 and Saguaro National Park (West).
| Main roads | Approx. miles |
|---|---|
| I-10 | 96 |
| I-17 | 14 |
Best time to go: October to April.
Best stops between Phoenix and Tucson
- 1
Picacho Peak State Park
A distinctive volcanic peak beside I-10. Spring wildflowers carpet the base, and the summit trail uses steel cables.
Photo: ksblack99 · Public domain
Near Tucson
- 2
Biosphere 2
The giant glass research facility from the 1990s closed-system experiments, now run by the University of Arizona with guided tours.
Photo: Johndedios · CC BY 3.0 - 3
Saguaro National Park (West)
Dense forests of giant saguaro cactus along the Bajada Loop Drive, with spectacular sunsets from Gates Pass.
Photo: Saguaro Pictures · CC BY 3.0
Where to stay in Tucson
Saguaro country, with Tombstone, Biosphere 2 and southern New Mexico in easy reach.
Map not loading? See places to stay near Tucson →
Renting a car for this trip
Most travelers fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and pick up a car there. If you're not driving back, compare one-way rentals that drop off at TUS. One-way fees vary a lot between companies.
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Rental cars at PHX
Compare prices from major and local agencies at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in one search. Dropping off near Tucson? Search a one-way rental; drop fees vary a lot between companies, so compare first.
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Trip cost calculator
Estimate gas or charging, hotels and car rental for a round trip from Phoenix to Tucson:
Phoenix to Tucson road trip FAQ
How long is the drive from Phoenix to Tucson?
About 1 hr 45 min without stops for 113 miles via I-10 and I-17. With breaks for fuel and food, allow around 2 hr 15 min.
What is the halfway point between Phoenix and Tucson?
Eloy, AZ is about halfway, roughly 57 miles from each end. It's a good place for fuel and a meal.
Can you drive from Phoenix to Tucson in one day?
Yes. At 1 hr 45 min of driving it's a comfortable one-day trip. Leave early so you arrive with daylight to spare.
What are the best stops between Phoenix and Tucson?
Top stops include Picacho Peak State Park, Biosphere 2 and Saguaro National Park (West). See the full list with detour times above.
How much does gas cost from Phoenix to Tucson?
About $15 one way in a car that gets 28 mpg with gas at $3.60 a gallon. Use the calculator on this page to plug in your own car and prices.
When is the best time to visit Tucson?
October to April.
Route calculated from OpenStreetMap data and checked 2026-11-09. Drive times assume normal traffic and no stops.
