If you’re looking to travel smarter in 2026, it all starts with your PTO calendar. By strategically taking just a few days off around holidays, you can stretch your time away into long weekends—or even full-on vacations—without burning through your balance.
Below, we’ve mapped out the best PTO-friendly weekends of 2026 and paired each one with standout events in Arizona and Tennessee. Use this guide to plan ahead, lock in stays early, and turn your time off into experiences worth remembering.
January 16–19, 2026 | Take 1 PTO Day, Get 4 Days Off
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction
Jan 17–25, 2026 | 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
Kick off the year at one of the world’s most iconic collector car events, where rare and valuable vehicles take center stage. Beyond the auction, guests can enjoy live entertainment, interactive exhibits, shopping, and the Rock the Block concert that launches the weekend with high energy.
Jan 17–18, 2026 | 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN
Monster Jam brings gravity-defying stunts, roaring trucks, and freestyle motocross action to Bridgestone Arena. This adrenaline-filled weekend is perfect for families, sports fans, and anyone looking to start the year with excitement.
February 13–16, 2026 | Take 1 PTO Day, Get 4 Days Off
Feb 14–15, 2026 | 9400 W Maryland Ave, Glendale, AZ
Turn Valentine’s weekend into a show-stopping getaway with Lady Gaga’s visually striking and theatrical tour. The performances blend fan-favorite hits with newer tracks, making this a must-see experience for music lovers.
Feb 14, 2026 | 1900 Davidson St, Nashville, TN
This inclusive race welcomes runners, walkers, and families of all ages while supporting Community Options. Pair the event with a long weekend in Nashville for a feel-good February escape.
May 22–25, 2026 | Take 1 PTO Day, Get 4 Days Off
May 16–25, 2026 | Restaurants across Phoenix & Scottsdale
Arizona Restaurant Week highlights the state’s dining scene with special prix-fixe menus at hundreds of local restaurants. It’s an ideal long weekend for food lovers looking to try new spots or revisit local favorites.
May 22–24, 2026 | 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN
Set in Centennial Park, Musicians Corner offers free outdoor concerts, local food trucks, and artisan vendors. The relaxed festival atmosphere makes it easy to spend the Memorial Day weekend enjoying live music.
June 18–21, 2026 | Take 1 PTO Day, Get 4 Days Off
Dates Vary | 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ
Spend a summer night at Chase Field cheering on the Diamondbacks in a climate-controlled ballpark with downtown views. Between unique food options and nearby nightlife, it’s an easy centerpiece for a long weekend in Phoenix.
Dates TBA | 2500 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN
This beloved Nashville tradition brings bluegrass music, food trucks, and picnic-friendly vibes to Percy Warner Park. Enjoy a laid-back night of tunes, tasty treats, and the magic of a full moon in the park.
July 3–6, 2026 | Take 1 PTO Day, Get 4 Days Off
June 29–July 5, 2026 | 840 Rodeo Dr, Prescott, AZ
Celebrate the Fourth of July at the World’s Oldest Rodeo, featuring professional competitions, parades, and classic Western traditions. With Prescott’s cooler summer temperatures, it’s an ideal way to enjoy the festivities.
Nashville Sounds Baseball Game
Dates Vary | 19 Junior Gilliam Way, Nashville, TN
Catch a Nashville Sounds game at First Horizon Park, where themed nights, fireworks, and skyline views make for a relaxed summer outing. Afterwards, head to Broadway to watch the Fourth of July fireworks on Broadway in Music City—Nashville is the place to be for the holiday!
September 4–7, 2026 | Take 1 PTO Day, Get 4 Days Off
Zach Bryan: With Heaven On Tour
Sept 5, 2026 | 1 Cardinals Dr, Glendale, AZ
Zach Bryan brings his With Heaven tour to State Farm Stadium for one of Labor Day weekend’s standout concerts. Fans can look forward to an energetic night of chart-topping hits and crowd-favorite sing-alongs.
Sept 4–6, 2026 | 600 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN
Deep Tropics blends electronic music, art installations, and sustainability-focused experiences in downtown Nashville. The multi-day festival offers an immersive and vibrant way to celebrate Labor Day weekend.
October 9–13, 2026 | Take 2 PTO Days, Get 5 Days Off
Oct 10–12, 2026 | 9400 W Maryland Ave, Glendale, AZ
This three-day PBR Team Series event brings elite bull riding and fan-focused experiences to Desert Diamond Arena. Expect high-stakes competition, live entertainment, and an energetic crowd.
Dates TBA | 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN
Cheekwood Harvest transforms the gardens with pumpkin houses, seasonal blooms, and fall-themed displays. Visitors can stroll the scenic grounds, take in festive decorations, and soak up the charm of autumn in Nashville.
November 11–15, 2026 | Take 2 PTO Days, Get 5 Days Off
Charles Schwab Cup Championship
Nov 12–15, 2026 | 2901 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ
Elite PGA Tour Champions gather at Phoenix Country Club for the season’s thrilling finale. With challenging holes, precise play, and the club’s iconic setting, every round delivers excitement and top-tier golf at its finest.
Dates TBA | 150 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN
Country music’s biggest night transforms Nashville with epic performances and unforgettable moments on stage. Across the city, red carpets, live events, and celebrations create an electric atmosphere for fans and music lovers from near and far.
November 21–29, 2026 | Take 3 PTO Days, Get 9 Days Off
Nov 20–22, 2026 | 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
This massive car show brings together classic cars, custom builds, and automotive enthusiasts from across the country. With vendor exhibits, live demos, and family-friendly activities, it’s a full weekend experience.
Dates Vary | 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN
Experience the thrill of NHL hockey as the Predators take the ice in Smashville. High-energy action and fan excitement make it a highlight of any fall or early winter trip.
December 24, 2026 – January 1, 2027 | Take 4 PTO Days, Get 11 Days Off
Date TBA (Late December) | 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ
Taking place just right after Christmas, the Rate Bowl brings postseason college football to Chase Field for a thrilling matchup. Fans can catch every fast-paced play while soaking in the excitement of downtown Phoenix and the energetic game-day crowd.
Date TBA (Late December) | 1 Titans Way, Nashville, TN
Set during the heart of the holiday season, The Music City Bowl brings college football energy to Nashville. Game-day excitement stretches beyond the field, with local events, fan gatherings, and the lively spirit of Music City shaping the weekend.
Final Tip: Plan Early, Stay Longer
These PTO-friendly weekends are some of the most popular times to travel—and they tend to book up fast. Reserving your GoodNight Stay early gives you access to the best homes, prime locations near top events, and the space to truly relax once you arrive.
Whether you’re planning a sunny escape in Arizona or a music-packed getaway in Tennessee, choosing the right home helps your PTO go further. Lock in your 2026 dates now and turn every long weekend into a stay worth remembering!
