Convertible Rentals in Arizona: Best Desert Drives & Top-Down Routes (2025)

There's something magical about dropping the top and feeling the warm Arizona desert air as you cruise past towering saguaros and red rock formations. With 299 sunny days per year and some of America's most scenic drives, Arizona isn't just a good convertible destination — it's the convertible destination.

Why Arizona is Perfect for Convertible Driving

Arizona offers what few places can match: consistently beautiful weather, minimal rain, and landscapes that were made to be experienced with nothing between you and the sky. From October through April, the weather is literally perfect — clear skies, temperatures between 65-85°F, and humidity so low you'll forget what sticky feels like.

The Numbers Don't Lie

• 299 sunny days per year in Phoenix
• 7.2 inches of annual rainfall (compare to 47" in Miami)
• 0 days of snow in the Valley (though you can drive to it)
• 5 national parks/monuments within day-trip distance

Top 7 Convertible Routes in Arizona

1. Apache Trail (AZ-88) — The Classic

Distance: 40 miles | Time: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

Starting from Apache Junction, this historic route follows the path of the ancient Apache and later supplied the Roosevelt Dam construction. The winding road offers:

• Canyon Lake overlooks with pristine blue water
• Tortilla Flat — a quirky western town (population: 6)
• Fish Creek Canyon viewpoint — a must-stop photo op
• Superstition Mountains backdrop the entire journey

Pro tip: Do this drive east-to-west in late afternoon for the best light and to avoid sun in your eyes.

2. Sedona Red Rock Scenic Byway (AZ-179)

Distance: 14 miles | Time: 1-2 hours (with stops) | Difficulty: Easy

Possibly the most Instagrammed road in Arizona, this short but spectacular route passes through:

• Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte formations
• Chapel of the Holy Cross (worth the stop)
• Red Rock Crossing viewpoint
• Tlaquepaque Arts Village in Sedona

The red rocks are most dramatic at sunrise and sunset — the "golden hour" here is actually red hour.

3. Oak Creek Canyon Drive (AZ-89A)

Distance: 14 miles | Time: 45 min - 1.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Connecting Sedona to Flagstaff, this route takes you from desert to pine forest in under an hour. Features include:

• Dramatic elevation change (4,500 to 7,000 feet)
• Slide Rock State Park (bring swimsuits in summer)
• Fall foliage that rivals New England (October)
• Switchbacks with stunning canyon views

4. Scottsdale to Carefree Loop

Distance: 35 miles | Time: 1-2 hours | Difficulty: Easy

This local favorite takes you through some of Arizona's most exclusive real estate and pristine Sonoran Desert:

• Start on Scottsdale Road heading north
• Pass by legendary resorts and golf courses
• Downtown Carefree with its giant sundial
• Cave Creek for western-themed dining
• Return via Cave Creek Road for variety

5. Fountain Hills & Fort McDowell Loop

Distance: 45 miles | Time: 1.5-2 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Perfect for a sunset drive, this east Valley loop offers:

• Views of the famous Fountain Hills fountain (560 feet tall!)
• Saguaro Lake scenic overlooks
• Verde River riparian areas
• McDowell Mountain views throughout

6. Route 66 — Kingman to Seligman

Distance: 85 miles | Time: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Get your kicks on Arizona's best-preserved section of the Mother Road:

• Authentic 1950s roadside America vibes
• Hackberry General Store — frozen in time
• Seligman — birthplace of Route 66 preservation
• Quirky photo ops and vintage cars everywhere

7. Phoenix to Tucson via Florence

Distance: 140 miles | Time: 3-4 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Skip I-10 and take the scenic way between Arizona's two largest cities:

• Historic Florence with Wild West architecture
• Pinal Pioneer Parkway — designated scenic road
• Massive saguaro forests
• Picacho Peak (famous Civil War battle site)

Best Convertibles for Arizona Driving

Vehicle	Best For	Daily Rate*	Notes
Ford Mustang Convertible	Classic American experience	$89-149	Most popular choice, V8 for that rumble
Chevrolet Camaro Convertible	Performance driving	$99-169	Better handling than Mustang
Mazda MX-5 Miata	Twisty mountain roads	$69-99	Light, nimble, fun
BMW 4 Series Convertible	Luxury resort trips	$149-249	Premium feel, great tech
Jeep Wrangler (doorless)	Rugged adventures	$99-149	Not a convertible but same vibe!

*Rates vary by season and availability

Seasonal Guide: When to Drive Top-Down

Peak Season (October - April)

Perfect conditions. This is why snowbirds flock here. Daytime temps range from 65-85°F, nights are cool but not cold, and rain is rare. Book early — convertibles are in high demand.

Shoulder Season (May & September)

Still great, with caveats. May can creep into the 100s by late month. September starts hot but cools quickly. Early morning and evening drives are ideal.

Summer (June - August)

Morning drives only. Yes, you can still enjoy a convertible, but plan carefully:

• Drive before 9 AM or after 6 PM
• Head to higher elevations (Flagstaff, Sedona, Prescott)
• Stay hydrated — seriously
• Watch for monsoon storms (usually afternoon)

Essential Tips for Arizona Convertible Driving

Sun Protection is Not Optional

• SPF 50+ even on "short" drives — Arizona sun is intense
• Bring a hat that won't blow away (strap it)
• Sunglasses are essential, not just for style
• Light, long sleeves beat sunburns

The Basics

• Water: Carry at least 1 gallon per person
• Gas: Fill up before scenic routes — stations are sparse
• Cell service: Download offline maps for remote areas
• Wildlife: Watch for javelinas, deer, and (rarely) roadrunners

Timing Your Drive

• Sunrise drives: Cool temps, soft light, empty roads
• Sunset drives: Dramatic colors, photo opportunities
• Midday: Best for higher elevation routes in winter
• Night: Consider — Arizona stars are spectacular away from cities

Popular Convertible Day Trip Itineraries

The Sedona Special (Full Day)

1. Depart Phoenix at sunrise
2. Breakfast in Camp Verde
3. Drive AZ-179 into Sedona
4. Explore Tlaquepaque, lunch
5. Drive Oak Creek Canyon to Flagstaff
6. Return via I-17 (or reverse Oak Creek at sunset)

The Desert Classic (Half Day)

1. Morning start from Scottsdale
2. North on Scottsdale Road
3. Coffee in Carefree
4. Loop through Cave Creek
5. Lunch at a western saloon
6. Return via 51 or Scottsdale Road

The Ultimate Apache Trail (Full Day)

1. Early departure from Phoenix/Mesa
2. Stop at Lost Dutchman State Park
3. Canyon Lake boat cruise (optional)
4. Lunch at Tortilla Flat (population: 6)
5. Fish Creek Hill viewpoint
6. Roosevelt Lake & Dam
7. Return via Globe or reverse route

Renting a Convertible in Arizona: What to Know

Where to Rent

Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) has the largest selection, but consider:

• Resort delivery: Many hosts deliver directly to Scottsdale resorts
• Tucson (TUS): Great for southern Arizona routes
• Local hosts: Often have better-maintained, more interesting vehicles than airport chains

Insurance Considerations

Convertibles often have different insurance requirements. Check:

• Your personal auto policy coverage for rentals
• Credit card rental car benefits
• Whether the host requires supplemental coverage

What to Inspect

• Top mechanism — test it before leaving
• Any existing scratches on soft top
• Air conditioning (yes, you'll want it working)
• Tire condition for remote route driving

FAQs About Convertible Driving in Arizona

Is it too hot for a convertible in Phoenix?

From October to April, absolutely not — it's perfect. Summer requires strategy (early mornings, higher elevations) but is still doable.

What about dust and sand?

Paved scenic routes are generally fine. Avoid convertibles on dirt roads, and watch for dust storms (haboobs) during monsoon season (July-September).

Can I drive a convertible to the Grand Canyon?

Yes! It's about 3.5 hours from Phoenix to the South Rim. The elevation is 7,000 feet, so it's cooler. Just watch for afternoon summer thunderstorms.

Are there good roads for spirited driving?

Arizona has excellent twisty roads: Oak Creek Canyon, Apache Trail, and the road from Prescott to Jerome are all driver favorites.

Ready to Drop the Top?

Arizona isn't just a place to rent a convertible — it's the place. With nearly perfect weather, world-class scenery, and roads that beg to be driven with the wind in your hair, there's no better destination for a top-down adventure.

Whether you're chasing Route 66 nostalgia, exploring Sedona's red rocks, or just cruising Scottsdale at sunset, a convertible transforms a drive into an experience.