phoenix road trip

Road tripping from Phoenix? Here are 6 destinations to set your sights on

With its dry, sunny weather and picturesque surroundings, Phoenix, Arizona , is a popular year-round destination with plenty of fun attractions. For travelers eager to get out of the capital, though, there are also many great spots within driving distance of the Valley of the Sun.

Explore the surrounding trails, incredible natural landscapes and smaller cities just beyond Phoenix. They offer iconic views and plenty of history — if you're anything like me, learning the backstory of a destination is an important part of any trip.

Whether you want to discover a new favorite destination, or you're itching for a scenic escape after spending too much time inside over the past two years, here are six of our favorite road-trip destinations for a day trip or weekend getaway from Phoenix.

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1. Gold Canyon, Arizona

Distance from Phoenix: 1 hour

What to do in Gold Canyon

If you're interested in getting some exercise while discovering the region's history, head to the Hieroglyphic Trail. This moderate trail, located in the Superstition Mountains, measures 1.5 miles each way. It leads to a steep valley where you can take in sweeping views of the landscape, as well as ancient petroglyphs from Hohokam natives who called the region home about 1,500 years ago. After you work up an appetite, pop into Wahoo's Restaurant & Bar, located on Topaz Drive in Gold Canyon, for beer-battered mushrooms and the namesake three-pound burger with house-made jalapeño cream cheese and bacon.

Related: Going on road trips this summer? Consider using these credit cards

Where to stay in Gold Canyon

Gold Canyon has a few places to bed down, but one of our favorites is Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa. The hotel features two 18-hole golf courses, Dinosaur Mountain and Sidewinder, and offers beautiful views of the Superstition Mountains. Rooms start at $265 per night. You can easily relax and unwind here after a day of hiking and golfing — just be sure to book with a credit card that will help you maximize your travel purchases, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve (3 points per dollar) or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2 points per dollar).

Related: Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a great pick for golf fans

2. Flagstaff, Arizona

Distance from Phoenix: 2 hours

What to do: Located northeast of Phoenix, this town is popular among hikers. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon or a long weekend thanks to its cool breweries (grab a pint at Lumberyard Brewing Company) and coffee shops (refuel at Kickstand Kafe). Travelers can also use Flagstaff as a comfortable overnight stop before venturing on to the Grand Canyon, which is only about two hours away.

Like Gold Canyon, Flagstaff is surrounded by trails. Head east to Walnut Canyon, with its sheer, vertical cliffs, to see endemic plants and animals, such as mountain firs, canyon wren and elk. It's the perfect place to enjoy meaningful time outdoors if you've been working from home.

Related: 10 tips for anyone taking a road trip this summer

W here to stay: To get a taste of downtown Flagstaff, stay at the Hotel Monte Vista . Open since the mid-1920s, the Hotel Monte Vista sits just off historic Route 66. Guests can grab a drink at the cocktail lounge which was disguised as a newspaper publishing house during Prohibition. Room rates start around $100 per night.

If you'd prefer to book a stay with points, Marriott has four properties located right in Flagstaff. Just be sure to compare the cash rates before emptying your points balance, since rates start at $139.

Related: How to redeem points with the Marriott Bonvoy program

3. Palm Springs, California

Distance from Phoenix: 4 hours

What to do in Palm Springs

Honestly, who doesn't want to escape to California for a long weekend these days? Quirky Palm Springs is the perfect road-trip destination for travelers seeking a sunny escape with excellent golfing, great food and stunning midcentury modern architecture. Tee up at the reopened Escena Golf Club, where you can also elbow up for California-fusion fare.

Related: 9 great restaurants for families in Palm Springs

If golfing isn't your thing, venture out to Cabazon Outlets, a sprawling shopping paradise perfect for travelers looking to snag a deal at a bevy of shops ranging from Oakley and Merrill to Tommy Bahama and Brighton.

Related: 6 tips for surviving a road trip with a large family

Where to stay in Palm Springs

Spend the night at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel , where rates can get as low as 31,000 IHG points or less than $300 per night. Guests will enjoy spaces filled with midcentury furnishings, though the rooftop pool is the property's crown jewel.

For Marriott loyalists, the Triada Palm Springs, Autograph Collection has a central location and rates from $275 or 40,000 points on off-peak nights. Just beyond Palm Springs, the clifftop Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage will set you back 50,000 points on off-peak nights. Cash rates can drop as low as $250, but can exceed $600 per night.

4. San Tan Valley, Arizona

What to do in San Tan Valley

For a family-friendly adventure, visit Schnepf Farms, an organic farm where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables. With 300 acres, Schnepf Farms is the perfect place to enjoy fresh air and naturally grown, pesticide-free produce (peppers, cucumbers, kale and green onions, among others). They are especially known for their peaches, and picking season is usually in May.

Related: Farm to flight: Korean Air grows its cabin food from its own Jedong Ranch

If you're into clean eating, check out the Queen Creek Olive Mill. You can tour the grounds and learn how to make extra virgin olive oil, the best uses for it in the kitchen and why it's so healthy.

Related: 10 airlines that let you get your regional foodie fix

San Tan Valley also has incredible trails and peaks to explore, including the Goldmine Trail. The trail is relatively steep and takes you to the highest point in San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Goldmine Mountain.

Where to stay in San Tan Valley

Schnepf Farms offers several RVs and Airstreams available for rent for travelers searching for a weekend glamping trip. Some rentals come with outdoor seating and uninterrupted mountain views. Most rentals start at $198 a night, and you can't beat the location.

5. Coyote Buttes North, Utah-Arizona border

Distance from Phoenix: 5.5 hours

What to do in Coyote Buttes North

Though quite a ways north of Phoenix, this stunning area is worth the drive — and a far cry from your home office. Visitors will be drawn to The Wave , a natural phenomenon in the Coyote Buttes North area along the Utah and Arizona border. This copper-and-tan-banded rock formation attracts photographers from around the globe.

Expect a six-mile round-trip hike to and from The Wave. You can hike there with a guide, but if you plan to navigate the trail on your own, a map and compass or GPS is recommended. Only a certain number of permits are available each day to hike to The Wave, so it's important to plan in advance.

Related: 8 survival tips for wilderness hikes

You can also explore around Kanab, Utah , while you're in the area. As the name implies, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park features vibrant sand dunes known to move as much as 50 feet per year. So even if you've been before, the view will be slightly different every time you return.

Related: The best U.S. state parks

Where to stay in Coyote Buttes North

The Grand Circle Bed and Breakfast is a charming place to stay, with easy access to beautiful trails in the area. Rates start at $120. This is just one of multiple hotels in the Canyon Collections group. Others include the Canyons Boutique Hotel, Canyons Lodge and Quail Park Lodge. There's also a Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Kanab for IHG loyalists. Rates start around $120 and IHG members can redeem a reward night for as low as 20,000 points.

Related: Transferring ultimate rewards points to IHG

6. Tucson, Arizona

What to do in Tucson

The West is full of beautiful national parks , but one of the most iconic symbols of the West is the cactus — and Saguaro National Park is full of them. Declared a national monument in 1933 by Herbert Hoover, the park has a long history. Learn about cacti in the gardens on the east and west sides of the visitor center, and take in beautiful sunsets on the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail (a half-mile hike) from the Javelina Rocks pullout on the east or from the Gates Pass on the west side. Sample Sonoran hot dogs (bacon-wrapped franks) which are a Tucson staple, or head to The Neighborhood for their award-winning Michelada.

Where to stay in Tucson

Camping at the Saguaro National Park is an option, but plan ahead because it's first come, first served. Vehicles cannot access the campsites, so visitors must hike there. Camping permits start at $8 per campsite per night.

Looking for something a bit more upscale? Stay at the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa, located in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. With views of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this Westin property has an ideal location with even better views. For a standard room, Marriott Bonvoy members would need 30,000 points per night during off-peak dates, and cash rates may be an even better value, starting as low as $189.

Related: The best hotel credit cards for 2022

• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

11 Epic Weekend Road Trips from Phoenix, Arizona

Posted by D.T. Christensen April 29, 2019 Updated January 08, 2024

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

Phoenix’s central location in Arizona makes it the perfect hub for weekend road trips across the Southwest. Here’s a look at our favorite routes.

For Phoenicians, escaping the city is an annual rite of passage. In the spring we trade the rising heat for cooler temps up north. Over summer we cool off by swimming at Oak Creek or paddling around Woods Canyon Lake.

And when we forget what the seasons actually look like during fall and winter, we head to other parts of the state in pursuit of amber leaves and snow flurries.

Fortunately there are no shortage of options for weekend road trips in Phoenix, from exploring abandoned mining towns down south to enjoying high-elevation weather in Northern Arizona.

Related read: 17 Refreshing Arizona Swimming Holes for Summer Fun

Road Trip Planning

For each itinerary, we’ve explored some of the best things to do, where to stay and how to get there. To learn more about what you can see on each route, we’ve included links to extra resources. Each trip offers all kinds of options and side trips to fit your days and nights accordingly.

Before you hit the road, consider the seasonality of each trip and how you want to stay in each place. Some of the things we’ve covered include:

Airbnbs and hotels . Most of these routes includes nearby towns and cities with Airbnbs and hotels. You may need to start planning months ahead of time if you’re looking to reserve somewhere popular like Joshua Tree or Zion. If you’re here from out of town, here are some of the best Phoenix Airbnbs or pet-friendly cabins in Arizona .

You can also find some of the most unique places to stay in Arizona if you’re open to any type of lodging.

Campgrounds . We’ve included some popular camping options for each trip, from basic, primitive campgrounds to RV parks and family-friendly KOA campgrounds . You can also research some of the best camping in Arizona ahead of time.

For a classic road trip experience, check out the slick van rentals over at Escape Campervans . They sleep 2 to 5 travelers and free you up to stay wherever you’d like: campgrounds, hotels or dispersed camping areas along the way. You can pick one up at their Phoenix Depot , located near Sky Harbor and open 7 days a week. You can also research more of the best Phoenix campervan rental companies for other options.

No matter how you explore Arizona and beyond, the important part is to remember the journey is the destination, even if that sounds like a fortune cookie cliché. Still true.

1. Grand Canyon

This one’s a no-brainer, sure, but there are ways to avoid the more touristy version of Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

For killer sunrise views, check out Moran Point  — it’s accessible by car, offers great views to the east, and has smaller crowds than Mather Point. For sunsets, our resident Grand Canyon expert and former tour guide Jake Case says Lipan Point is the place to be.

“I’ve done tons of sunsets, and for me a big part of it is being able to avoid the sunset crowds,” he says. “Like Moran, Lipan Point is accessible by car year-round, has good views to the west, usually isn’t crowded and has a lot of room to safely explore beyond the railings of the viewpoint.”

Related Read:  14 Vanlife Hacks: How to Make Van Living Easier

Easy hikes in the park include taking the Bright Angel Trail to Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse for a three-mile round trip, or hiking South Kaibab to Ooh-Aah Point for a 1.8-mile trip. More experienced hikers can take Bright Angel to Three-Mile Resthouse, or South Kaibab to Cedar Ridge.

For more challenging day hikes, take Bright Angel to Indian Garden for a 9-mile trip, or South Kaibab to Skeleton Point for a 6-mile hike. It goes without saying, but remember to plan your hike ahead, bring plenty of water, and keep in mind the hike out is tougher than the way in, and can often take twice as long as the hike in.

Related read : 15 Native American Ruins in Arizona that Offer a Historic Glimpse into the Past

Scenic Drives

If you’re visiting for the day, take Desert View Drive out to The Watchtower , and be sure to go upstairs for a 360° view from 70 feet up. Hit the main viewpoints on the way back to get a variety of looks at the Canyon.

For a multi-day trip, check out viewpoints on Hermit Road  — it’s closed to private vehicles March 1st to November 20th, but you can take a shuttle or walk stretches of the Rim Trail between viewpoints.

Explore the historic buildings in Grand Canyon Village, including El Tovar Hotel and Lookout Studio, and visit the Yavapai Geology Museum , which offers guided park ranger talks on the geology of the area.

According to the Park Service, only 10% of Grand Canyon visitors make it to the North Rim . It’s a 4.5-hour drive from the South Rim, but it can be worth the extra effort for a quieter experience.

The season here is May 15th through October 15th, and the roads are closed to all vehicles from December 1st to May 15th. You’ll find fewer visitor services, but fewer tourists as well.

If you go : Plan Your Grand Canyon Visit

Where to Stay

• Lodging: El Tovar is one of five lodging options in the park. Hotels abound in Tusayan , and here’s a list of our favorite Airbnbs near the Grand Canyon . If you’re bound for the North Rim, it’s the Grand Canyon Lodge or bust. That’s not a bad thing, though it does book far in advance, so you’ll need to plan ahead.
• Camping : Mather Campground and Desert View Campground offer in-park camping on the south rim. Dispersed camping is allowed in the Kaibab National Forest outside of the park, but you must be a quarter-mile away from Highway 64. The lone North Rim campground operates from May to October.

2. Sedona to Flagstaff

If for some hypothetical reason I was exiled from Arizona and had only one more day to spend in-state, I would squeeze in a drive from Sedona to Flagstaff. Then I would hide in the forest.

This picturesque stretch of State Route 89A winds through Oak Creek Canyon and delivers one of the most scenic drives in the Southwest. Before you get there, though, you’ll hit beautiful red-rock country in the Village of Oak Creek and Sedona — in all its hiking glory.

In Oak Creek Canyon, take some time to explore Slide Rock ,  Indian Gardens Cafe & Market , day use areas, a trout farm , scenic viewpoints and more. Pull-offs along the highway make it easy to stop and explore at your leisure, and although the main spots get busy —  West Fork , for example — you can also find quiet pockets and trails that aren’t as popular.

In Flagstaff, check out some of the best hiking options before heading downtown for grub and drinks. Breweries, coffee shops and other small businesses give the town a distinct local vibe that offers a refreshing contrast to the Valley’s impersonal sprawl.

Related read : 7 Spectacular Places to See Arizona’s Fall Colors

• Lodging : the basic hotels in Sedona don’t compare to the places you can stay in Oak Creek Canyon to the north, including the Forest Houses Resort . It’s minutes from the main drag but offers woodsy scenery and solitude at affordable rates. That said, some of the best resorts in Arizona are in the Sedona area.
• Camping : Pine Flat is our favorite campground in Oak Creek, but Cave Springs and Manzanita offer similar creek-side digs. Campsites at each of these can be reserved online, and some are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. For large groups closer to Sedona, check out Chavez Crossing .
• Lodging : Consider Little America for a midcentury throwback, or the Drury Inn to get closer to downtown without spending too much. Here’s a list of our other favorite Flagstaff hotels . Even better, rent an A-frame cabin out on 1.5 acres of Coconino National Forest, or check out our favorite Flagstaff cabin rentals .
• Camping : There are plenty of camping options, including paid campgrounds and free dispersed camping , but these almost all require a short drive into town. A KOA on the east side of town isn’t exactly roughing it, but it’s great for camping with kids.

Related read : 15 Unforgettable Romantic Getaways in Arizona

3. Petrified Forest, Canyon de Chelly and Monument Valley

This desert journey takes you through three icons of the Southwest, starting with Petrified Forest National Park , a low-key park with less than 700,000 visitors each year. It’s a great spot for stargazing, wildflower-hunting in the spring, and exploring the petrified wood and other geological features that make this place special.

Next, you’ll hit the Navajo Nation’s Canyon de Chelly National Monument and its famous canyon walls, scenic overlooks, and historic ruins. It’s the oldest continually inhabited area of the Colorado Plateau and home to the White House Ruin , Antelope House Ruin and more. Take scenic drives on the north or south rim or the White House Trail to fully appreciate the park.

A few-hour drive through Navajo land takes you north to Monument Valley and its universally recognizable sandstone buttes. Take the Valley Drive for a loop around the area, then ditch the car for a hike to enjoy the serene landscape.

If you go : Canyon de Chelly and Monument Valley: An Arizona Road Trip ; 15 Things To Know Before Visiting Monument Valley Park

Petrified Forest

• Lodging : In nearby Holbrook, you’ll find hotel options not far from the park and a handful of well-reviewed Airbnbs around town.
• Camping : The park doesn’t have campgrounds, but does allow backpacking. The Holbrook KOA is the only established campground in the area.

Canyon de Chelly

• Lodging: Choose from a handful of basic hotels in Chinle to the west, but if you can swing it, we recommend camping in this stretch of your trip.
• Camping: there are two campgrounds in the park. First is  Cottonwood Campground , a large area ran by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department. There’s also the privately owned Spider Rock Campground , which has a few more amenities and lies about 12 miles southeast of the park’s entrance.

Monument Valley

• Lodging : The View Hotel lives up to its name on the Arizona side, and you’ll find Goulding’s  and its quirky history in Utah. Both have plenty to explore on site and the option of renting cabins if you need more space.
• Camping : The View and Goulding’s both have campgrounds, and Monument Valley Tipi Village serves up tipi camping, a hogan-style cabin and spacious tent sites. Consider the newly built Monument Valley KOA for more refined camping, or experience an authentic stay in the area with the Rose Hogan on Airbnb.

4. Las Vegas

Set aside the obvious reasons for a Vegas road trip and consider this a more outdoorsy trip. The stretch from Phoenix to the border isn’t thrilling, but things pick up at the Hoover Dam , where you’ll find scenic lookouts, tours and more.

On the west side of Lake Mead you can explore the shoreline at Boulder Beach . From there, take the 167 north for about an hour and you’ll hit Valley of Fire State Park , a 40,000-acre sandstone playground of sorts. There’s a Joshua Tree-like following here thanks to winding roads and brilliant red rock landscapes.

Vegas is flanked by Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area to the west and Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area to the southeast. Further northwest of town you’ll find the Spring Mountains and Mt. Charleston , an ideal place to ditch the Strip in any season.

If you go : Get off the Strip: 7 Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas ; 9 incredible outdoor adventures near Las Vegas you’ve probably never considered

• Lodging : choosing where to stay in Vegas is slightly overwhelming, so we’ll point you to the best hotels and Airbnbs in the area. To escape the crowds, check out The Retreat on Charleston Peak  — it’s less than an hour from the Strip but feels a world away.
• Camping : Valley of Fire has two campgrounds , Red Rock Canyon has one campground , and there are quite a few private camping spots in the area. If you make it up to the Spring Mountains, you can choose between several developed campgrounds or free dispersed camping . If you’re lake-bound, check out Boulder Beach Campground on Lake Mead.

5. Zion and Bryce Canyon

A bucket list-level Utah road trip would include all 5 of the state’s national parks, but if you’re looking for a doable weekend getaway, you can knock out Zion and Bryce Canyon in one fell swoop. In Zion you’ll find popular spots like Angels Landing , but there are under-the-radar hiking options with less foot traffic.

Take a shuttle to see some of the more scenic areas like Court of the Patriarchs, or drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway for slow, gorgeous views (check for closures before you go).

Bryce Canyon may get fewer visitors — 2.6 million in 2018, compared to Zion’s 4.3 million  — but don’t sleep on Utah’s smallest national park. Areas like Bryce Canyon Amphitheater and the park’s main viewpoints are worth the drive, and if you have time to wander, there are plenty of mild and challenging hikes in the park.

If you go : What You Need to Know for a Successful Zion National Park Visit ; Plan Your Visit to Bryce Canyon

• Lodging : The only in-park Lodging, Zion Lodge , offers cabins, suites, and basic hotel rooms right in the heart of the park. Just south of Zion you’ll find hotels in Springdale . Options to the east of the park are limited.
• Camping : Zion has three campgrounds, two of which —  South and Watchman — are conveniently located by the south entrance. Lava Point is a small, primitive campground off Kolob Terrace Road about 80 minutes north of the south entrance. If glamping’s your thing, check out Under Canvas Zion .

Bryce Canyon

• Lodging : The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is your lone in-park option, but there are plenty of well-reviewed hotels in the area. Considering the park’s remote location, there’s a solid Airbnb selection , including this  house on one acre  that’s perfect for large groups.
• Camping : The park’s two campgrounds —  North and Sunset — both offer easy access to some of the best things to do and see in Bryce Canyon. Options outside of the park include Bryce Canyon Pines for something close and clean.

6. Route 66 Road Trip

The original Route 66 created in the 1920s ran from Chicago to Santa Monica. Call us biased, but the Arizona stretch is where it’s at. We have the longest unbroken stretch of 66 still in use, as well as the steepest grade, the highest point, and the longest curve according to Roger Naylor’s Arizona Kicks on Route 66 .

Unlike most of our itineraries, this is a “choose your own adventure” trip based on how much of Route 66 you’d like to see. Want to see the long-abandoned Two Guns and haunted Apache Death Cave ? Start in Winslow.

Head to Flagstaff or Williams for a more streamlined drive through the western half of 66, stopping in spots like Ash Fork, Seligman, Peach Springs, Truxton and Kingman for kitschy Route 66 sights.

If you go : Route 66 in Arizona: All the Highlights ; 66 Things To See & Do on Route 66

• Lodging : La Posada Hotel is the place to stay in Winslow — past guests include Albert Einstein, Franklin Roosevelt, and John Wayne. If you’re overnighting in Williams, go with an Airbnb or the Canyon Motel & RV Park . For quirky Route 66 digs, check out Supai Hotel in Seligman, Grand Canyon Caverns Inn in Peach Springs, or El Trovatore in Kingman.
• Camping : old-school hotels are part of Route 66’s appeal, but if you’re set on camping, you’ll find free camping at McHood Park Campground outside of Winslow. There’s plenty to explore in Flagstaff (see above), and a handful of campgrounds near Williams, including Kaibab Lake Campground . There’s a KOA in Seligman, a campground at Grand Canyon Caverns and a few RV parks in Kingman.

7. Prescott and Jerome

Prescott is about 90 minutes from our place in the West Valley, so it’s an easy day option when we need to get out of Phoenix fast and without much planning. It’s usually a relaxing day spent at Goldwater Lake , eating downtown at Bill’s Pizza , playing in the courthouse plaza grass, and visiting the Sharlot Hall Museum .

To make a longer road trip of it, take 89A from Prescott to Jerome (or vice versa for downhill views), a winding 35-mile stretch that passes by Mingus Mountain, its historic lookout tower, and a number of picnic areas and campgrounds .

In Jerome you’ll find the artsy-ghost town scene that keeps the town alive and well. Wine fans can follow the Verde Valley Wine Trail down to Cottonwood, then take the 260 to the I-17 to complete the loop.

If you go : 19 Must-Do’s in Prescott, Arizona ; A Wicked Good Ghost Town: 9 Things to Do in Jerome

• Lodging : Prescott’s all about the historic hotels: Hotel St. Michael , Hotel Vendome , and Grand Highland Hotel all offer unique glimpses into Prescott’s past. For more space, check out the Cactus Cottage or the Kiehl House .
• Camping : Prescott National Forest has more than 10 campgrounds , including Lynx Lake Campground near a tranquil 50+ acre trout lake. Family campers will enjoy Watson Lake Park — it’s close to town and includes a playground, lakeside hiking trails and more.
• Lodging : The Jerome Grand Hotel was a hospital from 1926 until closing in 1950; today, it’s one of the most popular places to stay in town. The Connor Hotel , built in 1898, is another popular historic option. Airbnb also features several unique places to stay.
• Camping : most folks go to Jerome for the artsy historic vibe, but if you’re set on camping nearby, check out Woodchute Wilderness or Potato Patch Campground in the Mingus Mountain area.

8. Mogollon Rim

Payson is a solid jumping-off point for exploring the Mogollon Rim , an impressive 200-mile escarpment that runs more than half the east-west length of Arizona. Travel northwest from Payson to explore Pine, Strawberry and areas like Tonto Natural Bridge or Blue Ridge Reservoir .

Head east from Payson to check out the Rim Lakes , a series of small, dammed lakes that are great for hiking, camping and enjoying scenic views from the Rim. Take the 260 past the lakes to hit Heber-Overgaard , a White Mountains community with “more trails than roads, more trees than buildings, and more wildlife than people.”

Further east you’ll find Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside, but you don’t necessarily need to go that far east to fill your road trip. There are excellent hiking and exploring options within a few hours of Phoenix, including hiking the Mogollon Rim Vista Loop , wading through Horton Creek , or fossil-hunting at the Paleo Site off the 260.

The Mogollon Rim offers a low-key road trip, but that’s its appeal: a quick and easy break from the desert when you need it.

If you go : 14 Best Things to do in Payson, Arizona ; 10 best things to do in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona

• Lodging : forget hotels — the best way to experience the Rim area is a good ol’ fashioned cabin in the woods. Check out Airbnb for options in Pine , Payson , Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside . The Strawberry Inn is a quirky throwback option at the base of the Rim and Bison Ranch is an excellent year-round option in Overgaard.
• Camping : you’ll find family-friendly camping at Woods Canyon Lake , off-the-highway camping at Willow Springs Lake and remote camping back in Bear Canyon Lake and Chevelon Canyon Lake . For free camping, great views, and fewer crowds, consider Kehl Springs Campground .

9. Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is a trendy desert mecca, but even before the age of Instagram, people like Minerva Hamilton Hoyt recognized its beauty. Her campaigns to preserve the area date back to the 1920s, and she’s one of the main reasons the park exists today.

There’s not much to see or do between Phoenix and Joshua Tree, so the epic part of this roadtrip starts when you enter the park. A few main roads — Pinto Basin and Park Blvd. — run the length of the park, but less-traveled backcountry roads are a great way to explore the outer reaches of Joshua Tree.

Backpacking , rock climbing , hiking and camping are all popular activities, and you’ll find a number of free park ranger programs and talks on desert geology, wildlife, vegetation and more. When you’re done in the park, explore the small, eccentric desert towns to the north, including Pioneertown , founded as a movie set in the 1940s and home to the Pioneertown Motel .

If you go : 8 Things You Can’t Miss on Your First Visit to Joshua Tree ; A Guide to California’s Joshua Tree National Park

• Lodging : There’s no lodging in the park, but the Airbnb market here is insane. Our favorites: the Copper Cabin , Cabin Cabin Cabin , and The Joshua Tree House . Budget-friendlier options abound at hotels near Joshua Tree .
• Camping : desert camping is the best way to experience Joshua Tree, and there are 9 in-park campgrounds to choose from, including Hidden Valley , Jumbo Rocks , and Belle Campground . Even the larger campgrounds fill up fast, so plan accordingly.

10. Mount Lemmon

Mount Lemmon is the Santa Catalina Mountains’ tallest peak at 9,157 feet, and the winding drive up from Tucson is one of the most scenic routes in Arizona. The Sky Island Scenic Byway climbs more than 6,000 feet from desert to forest in less than 30 miles, but you’ll feel a world away from the bustling city below.

There are plenty of spots to stop, take in the views and hike around — check Babad Do’ag Vista or Aspen Vista for starters. Once you’re at the top, enjoy Summerhaven, a great place for snow play in the winter and cool temps in the summer. Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley is the southernmost ski area in the US and offers off-season attractions like a sky ride to the summit.

Quaint shopping, outdoor activities and room to explore can easily occupy your weekend on Mt. Lemmon, but with Tucson just over an hour away, there’s sufficient nightlife and entertainment close by.

If you go:   Your guide to a lovely, cool day on the mountain

• Lodging : We dig staying at Hotel Congress in town, but it can be loud and crowded. For something more tranquil, check out Lodge on the Desert . The Airbnb scene here is also stellar — we featured Adobe Libre on our list of unique Arizona Airbnbs . For a mountain getaway, scope out a cabin near Mt. Lemmon like this .
• Camping : If you have the time, camping at Pichaco Peak State Park is a great way to start your trip off right. For camping closer to Tucson, check out Catalina State Park , Rose Canyon Campground , or General Hitchcock Campground . An in-town KOA offers family-focused camping with pools, playground, gym, mini golf and more.

11. Mining Town Tour

This southeast Arizona trip gains steam in Benson, where you can make a detour to Kartchner Caverns to the south or hit Singing Wind Bookshop , the “headquarters for books about the Southwest.”

Next, you’ll roll through Cochise, named for the 19th century Chiricahua Apache leader , and its scattering of buildings and cemeteries. The hotel, general store and church offer a fascinating look at life in the late 1800s and Old West towns in general.

From there, take the Ghost Town Trail through Pearce, Courtland and Gleeson. In Tombstone you’ll find the usual tourist haunts (O.K. Corral, Birdcage Theater) and plenty of history about the town’s infamous characters, like Virgil Earp, Johnny Ringo and the rest of the Tombstone cast. Make a side trip down to Bisbee to see how the artsy community has reignited over the years.

• Lodging : History buffs will dig the Cochise Hotel and hikers will love this adobe and wood cabin in Cochise Stronghold Canyon. Once you’ve passed through the smaller ghost towns, check out The Tombstone Grand Hotel or Wyatt’s Hotel . Bisbee’s old-school options include the Copper Queen Hotel , Bisbee Grand Hotel and Hotel San Ramon . For a quirkier (and kid-free) stay, check out The Shady Dell vintage trailer park.
• Camping: Cochise Stronghold Campground offers rugged camping in Coronado National Forest. If you take a side trip to Kartchner Caverns, you can camp or rent a cabin in the park. Good tent camping options are limited in these parts, but Bisbee and Tombstone both have their share of RV parks.

Related read :  29 Most Iconic Quotes from Tombstone

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Seen in: Arizona , Phoenix , Things to Do in Arizona

Posted by D.T. Christensen

Dustin is the founder of Territory Supply. He was born and raised in Phoenix, and fills most of his shelves with books on American West history. When he’s not writing or reading, he likes to travel with his wife and twin daughters, a rambunctious team that makes backpacking the Grand Canyon seem easy.

21 Epic Waterfall Hikes in Arizona

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Epic 7-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary: From Phoenix to Page

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Looking for an unforgettable adventure in the American Southwest? You’re going to love this epic 7 day Arizona road trip itinerary! This state is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, from the red rocks of Sedona to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. And what better way to experience all of the beauty and diversity of Arizona than with a week-long road trip?

In this post I take you on a journey from Phoenix to Page, highlighting the best stops and sights along the way. So buckle up , hit the road, and get ready for a week of adventure you’ll never forget!

Table of Contents

7-day Arizona road trip itinerary

Day 1-3: phoenix and scottsdale.

Scottsdale and Phoenix are pretty close driving distance to each other, so we kind of went back and forth between the two. We made Phoenix our home base and stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix . I love Kimpton hotels, and I knew our stay would be nothing short of delightful. I have the IHG credit card ( check out my travel credit card guide! ) so 9 times out of 10 those are the hotels we stay at since they typically give us free upgrades, or we book with points ( book through IHG directly here ).

The Kimpton has public bikes available for use, a lovely pool, and daily wine hour from 5-6 PM. Yes, free wine! Feel free to check out other Phoenix and Scottsdale hotel options in the booking widget below.

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Phoenix and Scottsdale very much gave me Tampa and St. Pete vibes. There was plenty to do in both of these towns, so get ready to have your hands full!

Phoenix, Arizona sits at an elevation of 1,028 feet and is the capital city of Arizona. It’s also one of the most populous cities in the U.S., with more than 1.6 million residents! Great hikes, mouthwatering restaurants, interesting museums, and historic areas like Old Town Scottsdale and Downtown Phoenix are just a few of Phoenix’s top attractions.

Things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale

Changing hands bookstore.

First, we stopped at Changing Hands Bookstore . If you don’t know this by now, I have an obsession with speakeasies, bookstores, and libraries. So when I read about Changing Hands Bookstore, I knew we had to go.

It had an awesome variety of book genres, a great area to read or get work done, and it even had a book bar. And get this, it’s called First Draft . I’m sorry but I died at how clever that was! Okay, now that I’m done geeking out…just know that it’s a great stop if you’re looking for a new read or just want to experience a cool vibe and grab a drink!

Desert Botanical Garden

Another must on your list of things to do in Phoenix is the Desert Botanical Garden . The Desert Botanical Garden is a great place to explore, get some steps in, and see some beautiful flora.

It’s open daily from 7 AM – 8 PM and general admission costs $24.95-29.95 (active military personnel gets in free with a valid ID). The garden sits on 40 acres and has over 50,000 plant displays which include over 4,000 different species. In addition to having several cacti and other sorts of desert plants, they also feature several trails , a butterfly pavilion, and greenhouses where you can observe various tree and plant species.

Camelback Mountain

Ahhh Camelback Mountain …my old friend. Okay, more like a foe, but whatever. It’s still a must! We made the mistake of going midday, you know when the scorching Arizona sun was beating on us.

Camelback Mountain is one of the most popular and well-known hikes in Phoenix. It’s a 2.4-mile challenging hike with an elevation gain of 1,322 ft. It offers amazing views of Phoenix once you reach the top. Learn from my rookie mistake and go early in the morning. Also, be sure to take plenty of water!

Dobbins Lookout at sunset

Dobbins Lookout is a moderately challenging 4-mile out and back hike in Phoenix. It’s one of the most stunning views in Phoenix, especially around sunset. You have the option to make the hike or drive to the summit. The road is open for vehicles to drive here most days between 5 AM – 7 PM.

Hot air balloon ride

Take in stunning vistas of the Sonoran Desert on a thrilling hot air balloon ride . You’ll have the ideal morning feeling like you’re floating on a cloud followed by a Champagne breakfast. Each flight lasts around an hour, and hotel transportation is available.

I have done a hot air balloon ride in Tampa , and it was so magical! It’s truly a surreal experience that you can’t really explain.

Enjoy some of the amazing restaurants and eateries Phoenix has to offer

In between all of these fun things, you’re of course going to be working up an appetite. Check out this list of great restaurants in Scottsdale and Phoenix . It also includes two of my favorite coffee shops, one of those being Dutch Bros of course!

Day 3-4: Sedona

You’ll know you hit Sedona when you begin to see all of the gorgeous red rocks. Sedona is a resort town, as well as a popular tourist destination. There are many red rock formations, hiking trails, art galleries, wineries, and vortexes for you to explore! This fun mix of activities made Sedona one of my favorite Arizona road trip stops. Below I’ve compiled my top picks for things to do in Sedona.

We ended up staying at the Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek . What I love about Holiday Inn Expresses is that they include breakfast (always thinking of little ways to save during my trips). This stay came equipped with everything we needed, and the location was perfect.

Book the Holiday Inn Express Sedona directly with IHG here , or check out other hotel options for your stay here !

Things to do in Sedona

Winery hopping.

You certainly can’t leave Sedona without checking out a winery or two! Lucky for you several areas have multiple wineries just a hop, skip, and jump away from each other! We did DA Winery, Javelina Winery, and Oak Creek Winery and loved each one of them.

Several areas with groups of wineries are all a part of the Verde Valley Wine Trail. Check out the full map here . If you don’t want to worry about driving, book this all-inclusive wine tasting tour ! The tour includes a souvenir wine glass, 5-6 tastings at each of the three vineyards, a picnic lunch, and round-trip transportation from Sedona.

If you want to mix wine with adventure, check out this water-to-wine kayak trip . Taste wines from Arizona’s top wine-growing region, the Verde Valley, while taking a leisurely paddle down the Verde River. You’ll also get a $20 credit to use on tastings, snacks, or gifts at the winery.

Experience a vortex

For those unfamiliar, a vortex is a location where the earth seems to be particularly buzzing with energy. They are said to be beneficial for meditation, self-discovery, and healing.

Many individuals experience inspiration, refueling, or a boost after going to a vortex. I suggest taking a journal, or just taking some time to meditate while you’re in the vortex.

The four most well-known Sedona vortexes are located in Boynton Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Airport Mesa, and Bell Rock. Each emits its own distinctive energy. Some are supposed to create energy that spirals downward and into the earth, while others are thought to produce energy that flows upward.

Enjoy a hike

We hiked Cathedral Rock at sunset, and just wow . Not to mention you’re killing two birds with one stone here as it’s also a vortex! This Sedona activity should be a part of anyone’s Arizona itinerary!

It’s a somewhat challenging 1.2-mile out-and-back trail with epic views at the summit. There is some nearly vertical climbing and hiking involved at one part of the trail so good hiking shoes with traction are important.

At one point we were following people and realized we were off the trail, so be sure to download the All Trails map when you do trails! This helped us navigate back to the proper path.

Devil’s Bridge and Birthing Cave are also popular hikes. Devil’s Bridge is a 3.9-mile trail that’s recommended for sunrise. It typically takes around 2 hours to complete. Birthing Cave is 2 miles long and usually takes less than an hour.

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a Roman Catholic church erected into the red rock buttes of Sedona. It’s a must-see as it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in all of Sedona. The chapel’s most prominent feature is a 90-foot-tall iron cross that serves both decorative and structural functions.

Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a local rancher and artist, was the one who came up with the idea for and commissioned the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Her first efforts were to construct it in Budapest Hungary, however, the start of World War II forced her to abandon the endeavor and bring it to her homeland, Sedona.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is open seven days a week from 9 AM-5 PM.

Eat at The Hudson

I didn’t get to check out too many restaurants in Sedona, but our experience at The Hudson was so good I can only assume it’s one of the best restaurants in Sedona.

The Hudson is perched on a hillside with a view of Sedona’s picturesque red rocks. They offer lunch and dinner which showcases seasonal American cuisine with inventive takes on tried-and-true comfort foods. Their cocktails and wine selection were also lovely.

They have a fantastic patio, open dining area, and a central bar with an industrial-chic atmosphere overall. Check them out for their daily happy hour at the lounge and bar for special pricing on select apps, wine, cocktails, and draft beer.

If you plan ahead, make reservations. We went here without them, but enjoyed some of the happy hour prices at the bar while we waited for a table on the patio!

Grab Firecreek Coffee on your way out

We just really enjoyed our stop here on the way out! Delicious coffee and some yummy baked goods you can snag for the road!

Slide Rock State Park

This was the one thing on our Sedona list we, unfortunately, didn’t get to check out, but I wished we did! Slide Rock State Park has a few short nature trails and a swimming hole where you can cool off after a long day roaming through the town. It has even been named one of America’s top 10 swimming holes.

The park gets its name from the 80-foot-long slippery chute that is worn into sandstone visitors get to enjoy. It’s vehicle admission only and there are no walk-ins or drop-offs.

Hours and prices vary depending on the season, so check those out here .

Day 4-5: Flagstaff and Page

Things to do in flagstaff, sunset crater volcano national monument.

One of the most popular places in Flagstaff is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument . This national monument is one of the best places to see the effects of volcanic eruptions in Arizona. It features several hiking trails including a 1-mile loop trail located at the base of Sunset Crater. Hiking to the summit is not permitted. Be sure to come with good shoes or boots on hand if you’re planning on exploring on foot!

It costs $25 per vehicle unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass which I recommend getting, especially if you’re heading to Utah after your Arizona road trip. The pass costs $80 and covers the entrance to over 2,000 parks across the US and is valid for 1 year!

Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory was established in 1894, making it one of the oldest observatories in the US. Discover planets, faraway gas clouds, and distant galaxies at night with the Giovale Open Deck Observatory’s six cutting-edge telescopes and Flagstaff’s renowned dark sky.

Admission is $25 for adults, aside from Tuesdays when it is $18.

Grand Falls

Grand Falls is a chain of natural waterfalls in the Painted Desert on the Navajo Nation, 30 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona. It’s also known as Chocolate Falls due to its hue. It is higher than Niagara Falls at 185 feet. It empties seasonal rain or snow melt into the Little Colorado River beneath.

The view trail is 1.1 miles out and back and is considered to be easy with a small amount of elevation gain. Be sure to check the conditions before going. There are certain months when the falls don’t have much flow and may not be worth the stop. March and April are the best times to visit because of the melting snowfall.

Grab a cocktail at a fun bar

We, unfortunately, had left Flagstaff before it got into the evening, but if you’re still around Hotel Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge and Annex Cocktail Lounge were both spots on my list that looked super cool with some fun specialty cocktails.

Annex Cocktail Loung is a modern club with a speakeasy feel that also has a rustic patio, and Hotel Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge is an old-fashioned, bi-level hotel cocktail lounge featuring karaoke and live music nights.

Page, Arizona

We ended the day in Page, Arizona where we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Page – Lake Powell . Page is a small town located in northern Arizona. It’s known for its hiking and camping opportunities, scenic views, and wildlife. The town also has several shops and restaurants where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

If you’re looking for something to do other than hike then there are many places to visit including Antelope Canyon which is well known for its beautiful scenery! Another must-see place is Horseshoe Bend which was formed by the Colorado River thousands of years ago when it carved out this beautiful valley over time. It’s one of America’s most spectacular natural wonders!

There are so many beautiful views in Page , you’d be amazed!

Day 5-6: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon

We certainly crammed a lot in here, but it was so worth it (that’s what she said)! Right we woke up we headed to Horseshoe Bend. Luckily it was just a short 10-minute drive from our hotel . We arrived around 6:30 AM and then left by around 7:30 AM to head to our Antelope Canyon tour .

We decided not to spend too much time at the Grand Canyon doing hiking trails, but instead drove through and stopped at some of the viewpoints.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a unique geological formation. It’s literally a horseshoe-shaped incised meander carved out in the Colorado River. From the parking lot to Horseshoe Bend is about a 0.6-mile walk.

The cost is $10 per vehicle. Despite it being a National Park, you will still have to pay this fee even if you have a National Parks Pass . The parking lot belongs to the city of Page, and the fee is charged by them.

The timing of visiting can be tricky. We visited for sunrise. While the shots we got were okay, there was a shadow on the bend or river that we couldn’t avoid. The most ideal time to visit is late morning or midday when the sun is more directly overhead so you can avoid shadows.

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon was the most unique experience and my favorite activity of the entire Arizona road trip! It is a slot canyon located on Navajo land and is protected by the Navajo Parks and Recreation. The only way you can visit and experience the canyon is through an authorized tour company.

While the tours are a little costly, I can assure you they are so worth it! Going with a tour group was actually great though. They were so informative, took dozens of photos for us, and even gave us some good laughs.

The canyon formed from water running through Navajo Sandstone over the course of hundreds of years. The walls of the canyon are so smooth it’s really wild to see!

You can choose to take a tour with either the Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon . The size of the canyon itself is the main distinction between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. The iconic light beams that fill the canyon are caused by the fact that the upper canyon is broader at the bottom than the top.

Lower Antelope is formed like a “V” and is considerably smaller towards the bottom. There is also a little bit of price difference. Lower Antelope Canyon is a little bit cheaper (almost half the price), which is the tour we decided on. While it doesn’t have all of the light beams that the upper canyon has it was nothing short of amazing! There’s really no bad choice.

Be sure to book your tour for Upper Antelope Canyon , or for Lower Antelope Canyon in advance.

If time allows, kayaking Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend is a super cool way to explore the areas!

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. Formed by erosion from flowing water over millions of years—its shear walls are almost vertical at some points. Today visitors come from all over the world to see this marvel firsthand so make sure not to miss visiting during your road trip through Arizona!

The Grand Canyon is actually the second most visited National Park in the US. You can explore the North or South Rim. 90% of visitors explore the South Rim, as the North Rim is harder to get to and more secluded.

We chose to do the South Rim. You can drive, hike, or take the free shuttle around the park. Check out this guide for how to spend a day visiting the Grand Canyon !

After all of these adventures, we headed back to Sedona to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek for one more night. We planned on heading back to Scottsdale in the morning so we figured it was best to begin making our way back that way after the Grand Canyon.

Day 6-7: Scottsdale

The great thing about Scottsdale is it is right next to Phoenix, so anything you didn’t have time for in this area at the beginning of your Arizona road trip, you can check it out here! If you’re looking for more Scottsdale recs check out this guide .

I’m not going to lie, we didn’t get to experience too much of Scottsdale. This was the last day of our 3-week road trip so we were pretty beat. We had friends we were visiting with so on this last day we just relaxed by the pool and then went out for a night on the town. It was so fun, but I definitely need to make an Arizona trip just to spend a few days in Scottsdale.

We did enjoy Old Town Scottsdale which definitely has some charm to it, and the bars were a blast! The Old Town district has tons of shopping options, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and more.

Some of my favorite coffee shops, bars, and restaurants:

• Luci’s at the Orchard — for brunch
• Toca Madera — for dinner
• Fat Ox — for dinner

• Culinary Dropout — for lunch or dinner
• Hash Kitchen — for brunch
• AZ/88 — for drinks

• Dutch Bros — for coffee
• Sip Coffee and Beer — for coffee
• The Beverly on Main — for drinks
• Sugar Bowl — I didn’t get to check this spot out, but it looks like such a fun spot for ice cream and a little photoshoot

If you want to spend some time outdoors sunrise at Papago Park and hiking Tom’s Thumb Trail are two of the most popular outdoor activities in Scottsdale.

Sunrise at Papago Park is a good choice if you want to see Phoenix from above without having to climb any mountains yourself! This park offers beautiful views of downtown Phoenix as well as South Mountain Park where all those big red rocks are located.

Whether you choose to hike along the East Side Trails or the West Side Trails at Papago Park , you’ll have a grand start to your morning enjoying the sunrise here. You will need to enter the park on your own because the parking lot doesn’t open until sunrise and the gated roads don’t open until 6 AM.

One of the most visited trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is Tom’s Thumb Trail. Due to how steep it is and how many twists and turns you must navigate in order to reach the peak, this 4-mile climb is moderately challenging. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy some breathtaking vistas of Phoenix and the McDowell Mountains.

Bring lots of water and be sure to wear sunscreen. Check out this awesome tour if you prefer to experience this iconic hike with a guide!

The next time you’re thinking about taking a road trip, I hope you consider this Arizona itinerary. It’s a beautiful state with many exciting places to visit and see, from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. You may even want to stop in Sedona or Page for some great sights!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other West Coast blog posts:

Joshua Tree day trip

One day in Palm Springs

LA to Joshua Tree road trip itinerary

Destiny Snyder is a passionate travel blogger and content creator based in the Tampa Bay area. Originally from a small town near Toledo, Ohio, Destiny's love for exploring new places began when she moved to Florida in 2017. She enjoys uncovering hidden gems, sharing insider tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and coffee shops to visit in every destination. With her blog Guided by Destiny and niche sites Sunkissed in Tampa and Sunkissed in St. Pete, Destiny aims to make trip planning stress-free and fun for her readers.

My husband and I are wanting to take a trip like this and this itinerary is perfect! Hoping to see Arizona this year or next!

Yay! You’re going to love it! SO much to see and do

A great guide to follow with much to see and experience. Having visited Sedona and the Grand Canyon this post brought back wonderful memories.

Wow Arizona has been on my list but this post makes me want to go even more now!! Your pictures are beautiful. Saving this to use for my own road trip in the future, thanks for sharing!

Arizona looks so beautiful! I am planning a long US road trip soon and there really is so much to see! Thank you for sharing your itinerary!

Love Arizona, been there twice on a road trip and it’s a beautiful state. Somehow I have in my mind that we could still hike up Sunset Crater. It could be that it has changed since 2008 or that I’m mixing things up.

If you don’t mind me asking how much did this entire trip cost you. Planning one in October-December.

I honestly wish I would’ve kept track because you’re not the first to ask, but I don’t recall

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Phoenix is the capital of the state of Arizona and as such has many attractions to appeal to visitors. Its desert climate leads to good weather year-round, though beware the summers are very, very hot.

This suggested (and tested!) itinerary will help you get the most of this great city. We explored many sites within the city and beyond in our short visit. From hikes to scenic drives, quirky bridges to beautiful gardens and living museums to world-class architecture, Phoenix has plenty to appeal to visitors of all kinds.

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To get the most out of Phoenix you’ll need a car. You won’t be able to get to many of the sites which can be quite remote by public transport in a sensible amount of time or possibly at all. By having a car you can get between the sites quickly, stop when you want and explore at your own pace.

So let’s hop in the car and take a 3-day road trip around Phoenix!

PHOENIX ROAD TRIP OVERVIEW

• Travel to Phoenix
• DAY 1 : Waterfall Canyon Trail  |  Pioneer Living History Museum  |  Taliesin West
• DAY 2 : Apache Trail  |  Theodore Roosevelt Dam  |  Tonto National Monument
• DAY 3 : Desert Botanical Garden  |  Hole in the Rock  |  Soleri Bridge  |  Mystery Castle  |  Gila and Dobbins Lookouts
• Travel Home from Phoenix

Click the link on the “DAY” to quickly jump to that section of this itinerary.

PHOENIX ROAD TRIP MAP

Please feel free to download this map for your personal use when planning your trip.

To download this Google Map, click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. 

We use these maps in the planning stage of creating all our itineraries as you can set out your plan in advance and then quickly reference these maps through the planning process.

WHERE TO STAY IN PHOENIX

Phoenix is compact enough that you can set up camp in one spot rather than move from night to night. We picked an Airbnb somewhere fairly central, but you could pretty much do this itinerary whilst staying anywhere within striking distance of the coast.

NEW TO AIRBNB?  Click for a discount on your first booking when you sign up for a new account.

PHOENIX ROAD TRIP: DAY 1

Waterfall Canyon Trail  |  Pioneer Living History Museum  |  Taliesin West

Our trip starts to the West of Phoenix for a hike along Waterfall Canyon Trail . The trail is located within White Tank Mountain Regional Park, which offers many other trails if you want to do more hiking. The Waterfall Canyon Trail is an easy hike along a pretty flat surface for almost all of its length. Only towards the end does it involve a bit more clambering, but if the waterfall is flowing, this part will be pretty inaccessible anyway. If it’s not, you can see into the cascade pool if you wish. Along the hike, you can view many rocks with ancient petroglyphs on them dating back many thousands of years.

After the hike out west, we head to the north of the city to the Pioneer Living History Museum . This outdoor museum set in 90 acres houses about 30 stops in their town for visitors to explore. The time period of the town is during pioneer times, hence the name, which dates from 1863 to 1912. The living part of the museum is because many of the stops include costumed characters talking about the buildings, the history and the artefacts on display. With everything from a church to a schoolhouse and a Sheriff’s office to a Victorian house, there are plenty of things to explore during your visit.

The final stop for the day is at Taliesin West , the Arizona winter home of the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Since his death, it is the home of his foundation and offers guided tours of the interesting architecture including pointing out aspects you probably wouldn’t notice if they weren’t pointed out to you. Depending on your level of interest, you can choose from a variety of tours of different lengths. We took the 90-minute “Insights Tour” which we felt offered a good insight into the estate.

READ MORE: Guide to Visiting Taliesin West

PHOENIX ROAD TRIP: DAY 2

Apache Trail  |  Theodore Roosevelt Dam  |  Tonto National Monument

After a hike to start day 1, day 2 is all about a scenic drive. The Apache Trail is a 40 mile (65 km) trail through the Superstition Mountains to the northeast of Phoenix. Paved, to begin with, the road gives way to a gravel road for much of its length. However, don’t let that put you off, it is easy to drive and doesn’t require an off-road vehicle or any special skills. Along the drive, you can choose to stop at various lookout points, a ghost town, lakes and the small town of Tortilla Flat.

At the end of the Apache Trail, you’ll arrive at the Theodore Roosevelt Dam. Built in 1911 from bricks it remains the world’s largest masonry dam, standing at 91m tall. In front of the dam is a scenic look-off with toilet facilities and information placards about the dam.

A short distance beyond the end of the Apache Trail you’ll find the Tonto National Monument . Here the national park service tells the story of what is known about the Salado people. The dwellings which are high up in the cliffs were occupied as long ago as 1150-1450 AD. Why they lived up there and why they deserted the dwellings are mysteries, but what is left behind makes for a fascinating trek up to explore the lower ruins. If you want to learn more about the monument then you can book the tour to the upper ruins. These are larger, but require a much longer walk across rougher terrain to reach and you have to reserve a tour in advance to visit them.

READ MORE: Guide to Driving the Apache Trail

PHOENIX ROAD TRIP: DAY 3

Desert Botanical Garden  |  Hole in the Rock  |  Soleri Bridge  |  Mystery Castle  |  Gila and Dobbins Lookouts

The last day of this short, but intense, itinerary starts with a visit to the Desert Botanical Gardens . Set out over 140 acres within Papago Park, the gardens showcase over 21,000 plants, with 140 of those on the rare, threatened or endangered list. Visitors can wander around the various sections at their own pace and enjoy the beautifully manicured gardens. You can also check their events calendar as they run many special events during the year.

Next to the gardens is the naturally occurring rock formation known as Hole in the Rock. Whether you just check it out from ground level or make the climb up to get closer to the hole, the rock is worth checking out. The climb up is not too arduous and does offer a great view of the area.

If you can time your arrival at Soleri Bridge just before solar noon, you can check out the unique feature of this bridge. The two columns have a narrow split between them and at solar noon (which is not necessarily 12:00) the sunlight peeks through the slit and bathes the thin line of red bricks with the midday sun.

The bridge was designed by Paolo Soleri and the shadows length change with the season, lengthening in the winter and shortening in the summer. On the solstices, they are at their longest (winter) and disappeared completely (summer). The speed with which the light shines through the gap only to be in shadow moments later illustrates how fast the earth is moving around the sun, even though it appears to be barely moving at all most of the time.

Heading south from the city, you can explore the oddity that is the Mystery Castle . This eclectic building appears to have been built with anything that the builder could find, which is pretty much what happened. The builder was Boyce Gully who left his family when he was diagnosed with tuberculosis so that they wouldn’t catch it.

Settling south of Phoenix, he began to build a castle for his daughter who had asked for a castle which wouldn’t wash away when building sandcastles on the beach as a child. Over many years, Boyce created an 18 room castle. Sadly he died before his family could see, but once his daughter arrived as an adult she moved in and lived in the fairy castle that her father had built for her.

The final stop of the day is to head up into the South Mountain Park along the winding summit road to a pair of lookouts. Gila Lookout faces out to the south and Dobbins Lookout at the highest point in the park offers panoramic views in all directions. The two lookouts are worth a visit to take in the spectacular views and round out a great trip.

READ MORE: Guide to Visiting the Mystery Castle

BEST TIME TO TAKE AN PHOENIX ROAD TRIP

In our opinion, the best time to visit Phoenix is either the spring (March to May) or the autumn (mid-September to October). The weather is good (although it can vary so pack layers!) especially as it gets closer to May and it will still be warm in September. The summer crowds aren’t in full swing and accommodation rates aren’t as high as the peak season and you’ll avoid the scorching heat of a Phoenix summer.

We visited in November and found everything we wanted to visit was open, though the living history museum wasn’t as “living” as it is in the busier months. Nowhere we visited was very crowded and in some cases, we had “private” tours as we happened to be the only people visiting a particular attraction at the time, which was fantastic!

But you may not be able to visit during those times of the year so what should you expect in the summer or winter?

In the summer (June to mid-September) the days are long (like 08:30 pm sunsets), the weather is insanely hot, and every sightseeing attraction, B&B, and hotel is open. However, with this, you’ll also find the biggest crowds, especially in the most popular sites. This is also the time of year where airfare, car rental, and hotel prices will be the highest.

In the winter (November – February) there are fewer daylight hours and in many cases, you may find some of the sites are closed. The weather is usually still warm with not too much chance of rain, so as long as the sights you want to visit are open, it can still be a great time to visit. You are also more likely to find great prices on airfares, hotels, and B&Bs (though some B&Bs may not be open at all).

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR PHOENIX ROAD TRIP

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

These are a few tours we would recommend for your Phoenix road trip.

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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11 Stops on the Phoenix to Sedona Drive

The Phoenix to Sedona drive may just be one of the prettiest in the world. If you’re lucky enough to be making the trek and its your first visit, you’re in for a pleasant surprise.

The drive is just 2 short hours, but you’ll be met with some of the most stunning desert landscapes you’ve ever seen.

While the iconic red rock formations steal the show as you near the outskirts of Sedona, there is still plenty to see along the way.

If you’re up for a little adventure on your Phoenix to Sedona road trip, you don’t want to miss the stops below.

Having been to both Phoenix and Sedona dozens of times over the past several years, I’m excited to share my favorite stops with you.

I promise a Phoenix to Sedona road trip is one you won’t soon forget.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Phoenix to Sedona Drive Itinerary

This Phoenix to Sedona drive makes for one of the best road trips in the country.

There are not many places in the world where you can go from a lively and cosmopolitan city like Phoenix, then be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes like those of Sedona in red rock country in just a few short hours.

Honestly I make this drive every year and it never gets old.

The Red Rock Scenic byway runs along Arizona State Route 179 up to Sedona and it’s my favorite stretch of highway in the entire world. I’m pretty sure you’re going to love it too.

Without further ado, let’s get to exploring my favorite places between Sedona and Phoenix.

Also, I’ve included a few popular tours in the area just above. I usually join a tour when I have time. It’s a fun way to get to know the area better and meet other travelers.

Phoenix to Sedona Drive

Sedona is located about 2 hours north of Phoenix if you drive straight without stopping. From Phoenix airport to Sedona the drive is also about 2 hours.

Sky Harbor International Airport is just about 10 minutes from downtown Phoenix by car.

If you make all 11 stops listed below on this day trip itinerary, the drive itself will take about 6 hours but I promise the stops are worth it.

If one of these stops doesn’t sound fun to you, just skip it. In my opinion, I would not skip Montezuma Castle National Monument or Jerome. These are my favorite stops and you’ll quickly see why once you visit.

While Jerome is a little out of the way, it’s definitely worth it. Jerome is awesome, you’ll see.

If you don’t have a car or simply don’t want to drive, you can experience this same trip on a guided day trip to Sedona . This is a full day tour that includes pick up and drop off from your hotel.

While there is no train from Phoenix to Sedona, you could Uber from Phoenix to Sedona if you just don’t want to drive or take a guided tour.

You can expect an Uber from Phoenix to Sedona to cost around $200, but please don’t forget to tip your driver.

If you’re making the drive in the other direction you can view my Sedona to Phoenix itinerary here .

Drive time Phoenix to Sedona

The drive time from Phoenix to Sedona is 2 hours without stops.

Best Stops on the Phoenix to Sedona Drive

Below I’ve included my favorite stops on the Phoenix to Sedona drive. Make as few or as many as you like depending on your interests and how much time you have.

Remember, you don’t have to see everything in one trip. You can always visit again.

Stop 1: Phoenix

Since you’re starting out in Phoenix, I’ll assume you’ve already had some time to enjoy the city.

However, if you’re looking for things to do in Phoenix don’t miss the Wrigley Mansion, the Heard Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden, or the local hikes and wine tasting.

If you’re looking for a unique guided tour in Phoenix, here are a few Phoenix area tours to get you started. Those of you looking for little adventure or wanting to celebrate a special occasion should consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride .

You can’t beat the views from a hot air balloon over Arizona.

I also recommend a visit to Scottsdale before you depart Phoenix. Old Town Scottsdale has many great restaurants and the city is packed with fun things to do.

After you’ve finished exploring Phoenix, plan to get an early start on your Phoenix to Sedona road trip. You’ve got lots to see.

Phoenix to Lake Pleasant Regional Park distance: 46 minutes / 42 miles

Stop 2: Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Arizona’s Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a nature lover’s paradise located about 45 minutes north of Phoenix.

This stunning Arizona park is situated near the Arizona Canal and provides visitors with awe-inspiring mountain views and miles of scenic trails, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

With plenty of convenient recreational amenities including picnic areas, camping sites, two marinas, and an artificial lake, this Arizona park is sure to impress anyone looking for some time in nature.

If you prefer observation to activity, the park’s abundant wildlife will provide a wildlife spectacle like no other, so don’t forget your binoculars.

I recommend a short stop at Lake Pleasant because its a beautiful park, but also because its a great opportunity to get in a little exercise before your road trip. The park has several trails and walking paths for you to choose from as well.

For those looking to stick around and enjoy the park for a while, you can also enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and even SCUBA diving.

Arrive early to avoid the heat and the crowds.

Time for stop: 1 hour

Lake Pleasant Regional Park to Black Canyon City distance: 35 minutes / 30 miles

Stop 3: Black Canyon City

Black Canyon City is a former Old West town from the 1800s located about 40 minutes north of Lake Pleasant. It’s a good stop if you’re looking to grab something to eat or take a quick break from the road.

If you’ve got your mountain bike with you, consider checking out the Black Canyon Trail . This is an 80 plus mile mountain biking trail running through the Sonoran desert. The trail is a former route used by Native American travelers and traders.

Time for stop: 15 minutes if just driving through.

Black Canyon City to Agua Fria National Monument distance: 18 minutes / 13 miles

Stop 4: Agua Fria National Monument

Arizona’s Agua Fria National Monument is truly one of the Southwest’s greatest gifts. Nestled just north of Phoenix, this 221,000-acre preserve is home to centuries-old Native American artifacts and historical structures, including dwellings that are over 1,000 years old.

From Las Lomitas and Rye Canyon to Aurora and Liberty Hills, Agua Fria is an adventure seeker’s paradise.

Visitors to Agua Fria can see over 450 Native American structures including large pueblos and petroglyphs.

Agua Fria is also home to two mesas and the Agua Fria river and canyon. The preserve is home to an abundance of wildlife including bobcats, coyotes, mule deer, javelina, and a whole bunch of other small critters, reptiles and birds.

At Agua Fria you can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. There are also camping and picnic spots available.

Agua Fria is located off Interstate 17 about 20 minutes north of Black Canyon City.

Time for stop: 30 minutes to one hour.

Agua Fria National Monument to Arcosanti distance: 25 minutes / 21 miles

Stop 5: Arcosanti

Magical, mystical Arcosanti is a peculiar place located between Phoenix and Sedona. It opened its gates to the public in 1975 as an attempt to create an architecture that combines ecology with social theories for a better world.

If you’ve ever wanted an experience that combines urban living, minimalism, and equality, look no further than Arcosanti.

Situated in the high desert of central Arizona, this utopian city is a fun stop for those interested in urban planning and architecture.

A visit to Arcosanti reveals the efforts of urban designer Paolo Soleri to create self-sustaining communities throughout the world by creating innovative architecture, sustainable practices, and efficient energy consumption.

There are 90 minute guided tours available that share the history and philosophy of Arcosanti while touring its uniquely designed structures. You’ll want to book your tour in advance as they often sell out.

After your tour, stop at the Arcosanti Cafe for a seasonal menu of fresh salads, sandwiches, and soups.

The Arcosanti visitor center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Time for stop: 2 hours

Arcosanti to Montezuma Castle National Monument distance: 32 minutes / 30 miles

Stop 6: Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument was one of my favorite stops on the way up to Sedona. Visitors to the monument can view pre-Colombian cliffside dwellings built into a limestone cliff (pictured above).

The dwellings date back to 1100 to 1425 AD. The main dwelling shown above was five stories with 45 to 60 rooms. Even more impressive is that it was constructed over the course of three centuries.

There is also a gift shop and several exhibits located in the visitor center where you can learn more about Montezuma Castle and the people who lived there. Short guided tours are also available.

Time for stop: 35 minutes

Montezuma Castle national monument to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park distance: 1 hour/ 53 miles

Stop 7: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

If you have extra time to spare on your scenic drive from Phoenix to Sedona, consider making the one hour detour over to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is located near Payson Arizona and is reported to be home to the world’s largest natural travertine bridge.

For those wondering, a natural travertine bridge is one formed naturally from the area’s iconic red rock. This particular bridge stands 183 feet high over a 400 ft long tunnel.

In addition to the Natural Bridge this park is also home to three hiking trails and a picnic area. There is also plenty of opportunity for spotting local wildlife.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park to Jerome distance: 90 minutes / 73 miles

Stop 8: Jerome

I said it before and I’ll say it again. Jerome is awesome.

The town of Jerome is famous for being designated the largest ghost town in America. It was also a roaring copper mining town in the 1920s and 1930s. Unfortunately, due to decreased demand for copper, the Phelps Dodge Mine closed in 1953, taking most of the city’s jobs along with it.

Today, Jerome is a beautiful hillside tourist town home to musicians, artists, and shop owners. Visitors will enjoy exploring the small downtown where you can find boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.

if you’d like to know more about what I’d recommend for your time in Jerome, check out my post on the Best Things to do in Jerome Arizona .

Before you leave, be sure to stop at the haunted Jerome Grand Hotel . You can’t miss it, the famous hotel sits at the very top of the hill. Ghost tours are available to hotel guests, inquire in advance.

Jerome is located 45 minutes west of Montezuma Castle National Monument. If you’d like a guided tour around the city you can find one here .

Jerome to Tuzigoot National Monument distance: 15 minutes / 7 miles

Stop 9: Tuzigoot National Monument & Verde Canyon Railroad

Tuzigoot National Monument is the location of a former Pueblo that was home to the Sinagua people.

Visitors to Tuzigoot National Monument can explore the remnants of the former Pueblo, walk along the Tavasci Marsh, and visit the Tuzigoot Museum.

Inside the Tuzigoot Museum you can learn about the lives of the sinagua people, how the Pueblo was built, and what their lives might have been like during the time they lived at the Pueblo.

Located just five minutes from Tuzigoot National Monument is the Verde Canyon Railroad.

Arizona is a gorgeous place to explore, and the Verde Canyon Railroad offers you the perfect opportunity to see even more of this beautiful state.

Enjoy breathtaking views as you wind your way through Arizona’s desert landscape in an authentic steam engine.

Whether you take a full day journey or opt for the shorter version, it’s sure to be an adventure that will make any train enthusiast smile.

Tuzigoot National Monument to Verde Valley distance: 15 minutes / 6 miles

Stop 10: Verde Valley Wine Trail

For your wine tasting pleasure, the Verde Valley Wine Trail is located 20 minutes east of Jerome in Cottonwood.

Make your way to Main Street in Old Town Cottonwood and you’ll be walking distance to all six wineries and tasting rooms located in town. Wine tasting has never been easier, seriously.

Here is a list of the six wineries you’ll find in Cottonwood.

• Burning Tree Cellars
• Arizona Stronghold
• Pillsbury Wine Company
• Merkin Vineyards Osteria

I haven’t been to these wineries but did visit Page Springs Cellars , which is a bit closer to Sedona and loved it.

I have a trip to Cottonwood scheduled in the next few months and will be sure to report back on my favorite wineries.

Merkin Vineyards is reportedly a great place to dine while in Cottonwood. I’ve only heard great things about their food and wine. I’ll definitely be visiting her during my trip as well.

Time for stop: 1 hour (or as much time as you need).

Verde Valley Wine Trail to Sedona distance: 45 minutes / 19 miles

Stop 11: Sedona

After you’ve finished up on the Verde Valley Wine Trail, make your way to your final destination in Sedona. Once you’re settled in, there are a million ways to enjoy a day in Sedona .

If you’re interested in exploring more of the local wines, head to the beautiful wineries in Sedona along Page Springs Road. My personal favorite is Javelina Leap.

If this is your first visit don’t miss Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock Trail, Slide Rock State Park, Red Rock State Park, Oak Creek Canyon, or the pink jeep tours .

Chapel of the Holy Cross is an active Roman Catholic chapel built from 1954 to 1956. It’s beautiful and worth a visit but be sure to be respectful if services or wedding ceremonies are in progress.

My personal favorite stops are Bell Rock and Oak Creek Canyon. Bell Rock is perfect for an early morning hike or to enjoy stargazing late at night. Bring your camera to get pictures of those beautiful red rocks.

Oak Creek Canyon is sort of a mini Grand Canyon (very mini), but its incredibly beautiful.

If you’d like a guided tour of Sedona you can find one here .

Sedona is about 20 minutes northeast of Cottonwood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, I found it to be very safe. Interstate 17 is a pretty straight shot up to Sedona, so the drive is not complicated.

No, not really. The highway is a little windy as it goes through some hills but for the most part the road is straight and flat.

Yes, you can make a Phoenix to Sedona car rental reservation and pick up your car from the Phoenix airport.

From the airport there is a Phoenix to Sedona shuttle service. Advanced reservations are required.

The distance from Flagstaff to Sedona is 29 miles or about 50 minutes.

The distance from Phoenix to Sedona is 177 miles or about 2 hours.

The distance from Phoenix to Flagstaff is 144 miles or about 2 hours 10 minutes.

Yes, you can charter a plane to fly from Phoenix to Sedona. However the Sedona airport does not service commercial flights.

Yes, both Greyhound and Flixbus offer bus service between Phoenix and Sedona.

The drive from Sedona to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is 119 miles or about 1 hour and 52 minutes.

Sedona is 113 miles, or about 2 hours from the Grand Canyon.

I hope you’ve found this Phoenix to Sedona Road Trip Itinerary useful in planning a trip of your own. If you’d like to support this blog please consider sharing this post. As always, thanks for reading.

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How to Plan an Amazing Arizona Road Trip (7-14 Days)

How were we so late to the Arizona party? Despite both having been to Arizona MULTIPLE TIMES before, we were radically unprepared for the sheer beauty that we experienced over the course of our Arizona road trip. We spent around two weeks in Arizona, and already started making plans for our return. Because there is SO MUCH to do and see in Arizona that it’s honestly a little overwhelming.

We originally had plans to go all over the state, but ended up having to cut our trip a little short. Which turned out to be a good thing, because it forced us to focus in on the things we really wanted to do and see while we were in Arizona.

We used our experience road tripping in Arizona – along with the hours of research that went into planning our own trip – to put together this guide to planning an amazing Arizona adventure.

In it, you’ll find the logistics – when to go, where to fly in, etc etc – along with our favorite stops in Arizona and exactly what to do and see while you’re there.

We think that you should spend your time going deep (or, as deep as you can go with 2-3 days) in each of the stops you make rather than trying to see everything in one trip. The latter approach means you’re spending 4-5 hours a day in the car, which, honestly, sucks.

Instead, spend your time exploring hiking trails, stuffing your face with food and drinks, and seeing some of Arizona’s most spectacular landscapes.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days in Arizona?

Arizona is huge, and if you’re trying to hit all of the different corners of the state, you’ll need at least two weeks .

If you have less than that, we’d strongly recommend focusing your Arizona road trip itinerary on three main areas : Phoenix and the Superstition Mountains, Sedona, and Grand Canyon National Park.

You will need at least seven days – more would be better – to do Phoenix, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon.

We’ve written the road trip itinerary below for seven days, but have suggestions for what to do with extra time that are equally as detailed as the 7 day itinerary below – you can find them at the end of this guide.

• With a few extra days – 10 or so – you can add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park.
• With 14 days, add the southern loop through Tucson , plus Page and Zion National Park , ending your time by flying out of Vegas. 

Monument Valley, which is spectacular, is FAR from most of the places on this itinerary. For example, it’ll take you three to four hours to get there from the Grand Canyon.

Other than the drive, which is beautiful, there’s nothing else to really do there, so we don’t think it really makes sense to take a huge detour to get there . In fact, it would be a better addition to a broader Arizona / Utah road trip on your way to Moab .

Instead, we’d STRONGLY recommend focusing your time on the corridor between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, immersing yourself in the spectacular landscapes along the way rather than spending all day in the car.

Where to Start and End Your Arizona Road Trip

For most people, a loop that starts and ends in Phoenix, Arizona is going to be the best way to do this road trip.

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which generally has a good selection of flights from around the country (and even the world, in some cases). Click here to check flight prices into Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport for your dates.

The benefit of doing this as a loop is that you won’t have to pay a one-way rental car fee.

From the furthest points on the itinerary below – either Page or the Grand Canyon South Rim – it’s about a four hour drive back to the airport.

Plan on booking the earliest possible flight into Phoenix, and the latest possible flight out to maximize your time.

Note : The exception to doing this as a loop is if you have 14 days and decide to add on Zion National Park at the end. Then, it would actually be better to end in Las Vegas – about two and a half hours or 172 miles from Zion.

Do You Need to Rent a Car for this Road Trip?

In short, yes. You’ll need to rent a car for the entirety of this itinerary. We’d recommend picking up and dropping off at the same place – Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix – to avoid a one-way rental car fee if you can. 

We like using Kayak for booking rental cars because they aggregate all the different car rental sites to help you find the best price. Make sure to rent from a reputable company – Hertz, Enterprise, National, or Avis, which you can do by using Kayak’s helpful filters.  Cl i ck here to check prices for rental cars in Phoenix.

A Complete 7 Day Itinerary for a Road Trip in Arizona

Now that we’ve got all the logistics out of the way, time to get into the exact itinerary we’d recommend. 

Day 1: Fly in and Explore Phoenix

A lot of people pick up their rental car and head straight for either Sedona or Tucson, depending on what route you’re taking.

However, we think there are a few things to do in Phoenix that are well worth a day of your time.

We’d spend your first day, night, and second day in the Phoenix area, focusing on the many outdoor activities nearby, most notably the Superstition Mountains, which were a highlight of our Arizona trip. Then, on your second night, head up to Sedona and sleep there so you can get an early start the next morning.

What to Do in Phoenix

There are a couple of things worth doing in Phoenix itself on your first day in Arizona – we’ll cover the Superstition Mountains on day 2 of this itinerary.

• The Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park is worth a stop to see all sorts of desert flora – over 50,000 different kinds! There are multiple loops that take you on a journey through the plant life of the Sonoran desert, which will give you a great foundation for the rest of your trip (“Hey Alysha! It’s a teddy bear cholla cactus!”).
• Speaking of Papago Park, Hole in the Wall is a short climb that takes you to a perfect spot to take in your first Arizona sunset! Unlike places on the west coast, there’s no marine layer or clouds in the sky to ruin the evening glow – sunsets in Arizona are spectacular.
• There are a surprising number of great hikes within 45 minutes of Phoenix. Camelback Mountain is seemingly right in the middle of town, and gives you sweeping views of the surrounding area from the summit, which is reached with a 2.5 mile out-and-back trail that is basically straight up. Tom’s Thumb is another great hike that takes you to a saddle with panoramic views – it’s a little further out to the north of town, but is worth the journey in our opinion.
• Get coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab , who has the best coffee in Phoenix (in our opinion, anyway) and has created a mini empire in southern Arizona.

Where to Stay in Phoenix

We were walking through Uptown Phoenix on our way to Cartel Coffee – some of the best coffee in Phoenix – when we found ourselves in the courtyard of a hip-looking hotel.

That hotel was Rise Uptown , and we wish we would have stayed there. It’s a great location for exploring Phoenix, and the rooms are spacious and beautiful. Plus, there’s a nice pool, and Cartel Coffee is essentially in the lobby. 

In general, we’d recommend staying somewhere between Downtown and uptown, between the two highways that run north-south (51 and 17).

Here are a couple of other good choices in Phoenix.

• Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix : Great value with bright-colored rooms and charming décor. Plus, it’s super affordable! It’s also near the freeway that you’ll take out to the Superstitions, which puts you in a great location for exploring.
• Aloft Phoenix Airport : Location is nothing special, but it’s convenient for the airport, and it’s an affordable choice with nice rooms and a pool.
• The AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore : A little more on the boutique end of the spectrum, this hotel is beautiful, and is well-located in the Biltmore area of Phoenix, which is a perfect home base for exploring the city and surrounding area.

Day 2: Day Trip to the Superstition Mountains

Stay in Phoenix for the night, and head out early to the east, where you’ll find the Superstition Wilderness, a highlight of our time in Arizona. You can explore most of the main part of the western end of the park in a morning, which is exactly what you’re going to do here.

Head to Lost Dutchman State Park , which will be your base for exploring, and park at either the Treasure Loop or Siphon Draw Trailheads . There’s a day use fee of $10 to enter the park.

There are a couple of established hikes in the park, but we created our own by putting together multiple hikes into one big loop.

Start with the eastern part of the Treasure Loop Trail , which winds its way up to the ridge. From there, rather than heading back down via the Treasure Loop Trail, take the Prospector’s Ridge Trail to the west until it intersects with the Siphon Draw Trail . From that intersection, take the Jacob’s Crosscut trail back to the trailhead.

All-in, it’ll be around four miles, and you’ll see the Superstition Mountains and a ton of desert flora and fauna along the way.

On your way back into Phoenix, stop in Mesa, Arizona for a couple of our favorite spots in the Phoenix Metro Area. 

• Get coffee at Mythical Coffee , which is actually in Gilbert, but is roughly on the way. This is the best coffee in the Phoenix area, we think. An alternative would be Peixoto Coffee , which we like because they own a coffee farm in Brazil (or more accurately, are owned by a family who also owns a coffee farm in Brazil) and highlight the coffees from their farm in their shop. 
• Need to refuel post-hike? There are two great gluten free spots in Mesa, which we’d recommend whether you have Celiac Disease (like me) or not. First is Spooky Swirls , a cupcake shop (they make all sorts of baked goods) that makes fun, themed cupcakes that are not only beautiful, but they’re also delicious. We got a Baby Yoda cupcake (see below), that didn’t quite survive the Arizona heat, but was delicious either way. The second spot is Intentional Foods Cafe , which is a 100% gluten free restaurant that is also free of eight other allergens, so it’s perfect if you or any of your traveling companions have food sensitivities. Get the donuts and the fries. 
• Last, but certainly not least, head up to Cider Corps , a veteran-owned cidery in Mesa to try some local cider. I believe (I could be wrong) that they are Phoenix’s only cider bar! They have a nice outdoor patio if it’s cool enough, otherwise they have a high-ceilinged, light-filled indoor space. Plus, CIDER SLUSHIES! You can bring outside food, so we’d recommend grabbing lunch and heading here to eat and sip on some cider. 

Days 3 & 4: Sedona

Drive Time from Phoenix: 2 hours / 115 miles

Sedona is gorgeous. We did Sedona and Zion on the same trip (see our recommendations for 14 days below to see how we did it), and in a lot of ways, they’re very similar. You’ll find red rock walls and towering buttes with lush greenery in the canyons below.

Another thing that makes them similar? The crowds.

We were in Sedona in April, and it was a zoo. Think hundreds of cars parked at the most popular trailheads, and roads to trailheads closed because the trailhead is full.

Still, it’s a beautiful place, and as long as you know what you’re getting into before you get there, you’ll enjoy your visit.

What to Do in Sedona

Sedona, like Bend, Oregon, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There’s all sorts of fantastic hikes (psst! We have a guide to our favorite hikes in Sedona ), 4×4 offroading, areas to spend a summer day lounging at the river, and more. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Sedona.

Crescent Moon Picnic Area : At this park on the south side of town, you’ll have some of the best views of Cathedral Rock that you’ll find anywhere in Sedona. Plus, there’s a river, so bring a picnic, a blanket and some towels, your swimsuit, and make an afternoon of it. 

Drink Mind-blowing Chai at the Chai Spot : This was unexpected. As I was scrolling Google Maps getting myself oriented, I realized that there was a chai shop in Sedona called the Chai Spot . Not only do they make INCREDIBLE chai (get the butter chai, it’s creamy and rich and delicious), but their story is worth looking into as well. It’s a social project that focuses on economic empowerment of women and education of children in Pakistan. The inside of the shop is colorful and vibrant, and the outdoor patio is a welcome refuge from the heat – it’s the perfect spot for chai lovers (like Alysha) to relax in Sedona. 

Hiking in Sedona: There are an incredible number of great hikes in Sedona. So many, that we have a whole separate post highlighting the best hikes in Sedona – if you want to spend most of your time on the hiking trails, you should absolutely go read that. We really enjoyed the West Fork of Oak Creek , which is a beautiful meander through a lush canyon with towering red rock walls. You cross the river 13 times, but none of the crossings are particularly hard, especially if you have waterproof shoes on. The Boynton Canyon Trail and Soldier Pass Trail were our next two picks, though you need to read our hiking guide to figure out the parking situation for Soldier Pass, which is a bonafide nightmare. Devils Bridge is cool, but you’ll probably have to wait in line at the top for a picture, which isn’t our cup of tea. 

Sunset Spots: Arizona sunsets are amazing. Catch sunset at Airport Mesa , which is one of the most popular spots (there were literally hundreds of people there when we were there) or the top of Cathedral Rock , which requires a steep hike to reach. Another good option that should be less crowded is Bell Rock . Make the climb about halfway up the south side of the towering rock formation and find a nice spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’ll light up the red rocks of the valley in front of you as it does. 

Wine Tasting: I bet you didn’t expect to see wine tasting on an itinerary for Arizona, did you? The Verde Valley Wine Trail is just outside of Sedona, in nearby Cottonwood and Corndale (~30 minutes from Sedona by car) and a trip out there would make for a great afternoon activity after a morning hike. Head to Oak Creek Vineyards for wine flights and small plates (also dog + kid friendly!), or Arizona Stronghold Vineyards (no reservations, tables are first-come-first-served) for a delightfully rustic tasting experience just outside of Cottonwood. If you don’t want to make the journey out of town, head to Art of Wine in Sedona and get a flight of the Arizona reds or whites, depending on what you’re into. 

Where to Stay in Sedona

There are a couple of options in Sedona in terms of style and budget. You could stay in a hotel or resort, which will give you a nice refuge from the heat if you’re visiting in the summertime (or the cold if it’s winter or early spring). Or, you could camp at one of the campgrounds along 89A just north of Sedona. 

Hotels in Sedona

If you’re looking to stay in a hotel, you’ve got a pretty impressive number of options. 

We like Sky Ranch Lodge , which is walkable to the best sunset spot in the area at Airport Mesa. It’s where we’d stay if we were planning a trip to Sedona and weren’t living in our van.

They have a beautiful, lush property that has a patio with a great view of Sedona, and rooms are spacious. Plus, they’re certified sustainable by the Sustainability Alliance of Arizona!

Plus, a free shuttle to areas within five miles of the hotel means you won’t have to deal with parking at some of the most popular trailheads like the Soldier Pass Trail (though you should be careful, because cell-service is nonexistent in some parts of Sedona). It’s also walkable from the airport, which is a nice bonus if you’re flying in. 

The other spot we’d recommend looking at is Junipine Resort , which is along 89A north of town and offers a quieter, more private place to stay. We drove past it on our way to our campground and were intrigued. Sure enough, it looks like an amazing place to stay!

It’s along the banks of Oak Creek, they’re certified sustainable, and they have “Creekhomes” that have plenty of space and a full kitchen. It’s only 10-15 minutes outside of Sedona, and is perfect if you’re in search of a bit of tranquility, which you might not find if you’re staying in downtown Sedona. 

Camping in Sedona

If you want to camp, there are a bunch of campgrounds north of Sedona along Highway 89A. We’ll cover three of them, starting with the closest to Sedona and ending with one that’s about 15-20 minutes outside of town that we stayed at and really liked. 

Manzanita Campground : Right along the creek in a nice shady spot, this is the closest campground to town, which also means it’s the most competitive. There are only 18 sites, 11 of which are reservable in advance. Seven sites are first-come-first-served, so plan on getting there early in the day to secure a spot. More info here . 

Cave Springs Campground: With 84 sites, this is the biggest campground in the area. You must make reservations in advance (at least three days before you show up), and there’s usually availability (though we’d recommend grabbing a spot well in advance for the month of April, which is high season in Sedona). More info here .  

Pine Flat Campground : This is the one we stayed at, and 18 of the 54 sites here are reservable in advance. It’s a nice campground, though it is right along the road (though all of them are, really). Try to get a site on the side of the campground that’s along Oak Creek – that’s on the west side of the road, and the west side of the campground (look at a map and you’ll see what I mean). More info here . 

Days 5 & 6: The Grand Canyon

Drive Time from Sedona: 2 hours / 115 miles

We think 2 days in the Grand Canyon is the perfect amount of time to explore the rim, take the scenic drive out to the East Entrance of the park and Desert View, and do one of the difficult but spectacular hikes that take you below the rim.

There’s plenty to do and see to fill a few more days if you have extra time on this road trip and you’re particularly interested in the Grand Canyon – like the North Rim, or backpacking to the floor of the canyon – but we think your time is actually better spent elsewhere unless you’re up for a long drive around to the North Rim, or a long overnight backpacking trip.

So spend a couple of days exploring the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is plenty of time to see the highlights.

What to Do in Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

Like we mentioned above, there are three things we think are “must-do” at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

• Hike the Rim Trail : All along the Rim Trail, you’ll have spectacular and ever-changing views of the vastness of the canyon below. We like the stretch from Mather Point to the Bright Angel Trailhead, which is a 3.1 mile hike that is mostly flat with plenty of viewpoints along the way. Don’t miss Mather Point , Yavapai Point , and the Yavapai Geology Museum . This hike is best done in the early morning before 10am, which is when the crowds start to show up, or within an hour of sunset for stunning light on the canyon.
• Scenic Drive out to Desert View : This drive is amazing, with about a half-dozen viewpoints that are worth stopping at along the way. You’ll have a different perspective on the canyon from the eastern end, and it’s the only part of the rim road that you can drive in a private vehicle (except between December and February, when the road out to Hermit’s Rest is open to private vehicles). Start two hours before sunset, stopping at the viewpoints along the way, and ending at Desert View to take in the usually-stunning Arizona sunset.
• Get below the Canyon Rim : Like Bryce Canyon , one of our favorite national parks in the United States, the best way to really get a feel for the Grand Canyon is to hike down into it. You’re sure to appreciate the scale of the canyon if you have to make the climb up the canyon walls, gaining several thousand feet over the course of your journey! The two most popular trails are the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail. The Bright Angel Trail is more of a way to get all the way to the canyon floor, which you won’t be able to do in a day hike. We’d recommend taking the South Kaibab Trail out to Skeleton Point , which is 6 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet on the way back. Shorten it to 3 miles / 1,100 feet by turning around at Cedar Point instead.

The hikes below the rim are not for the faint of heart – you’ll need to be prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and salty snacks.

The interior of the canyon is often 20+ degrees hotter than the rim, which means you’re going to be at risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration, particularly in the summer months. Do not underestimate the difficulty of these hikes.

It’s probably better to underestimate your abilities rather than overestimating them, in this case.

Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon

There are three places we’d recommend staying on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, and it largely depends on your budget and style.

If you’re camping, stay at Mather Campground , which is within walking distance (~1 mile one-way) of the main Visitors Center and the Marketplace. We stayed here and although it’s a massive campground, it’s relatively nice with flush toilets, shaded sites, and good water. Honestly, we were surprised at how nice it was.

Staying inside the park on the Rim is a great option, but like most national parks, you’re going to pay a little extra for the convenience of having the Grand Canyon literally out your front door (in most cases). Along the rim, the best options are going to be El Tovar Hotel , the Bright Angel Lodge , and the Maswik Lodge .

Staying outside of the south entrance of the park (which is the best place to stay outside the park), is going to be cheaper, but means a little bit of a journey to get to the rim of the canyon, and often a line at the park entrance (though, not if you get there early enough!).

We’d recommend looking in the town of Tusayan (15 minutes from the rim), which is just outside the South Entrance, or Grand Canyon Junction (30 minutes to the rim), which has a better selection of places to stay, but is a little further out. Here are three places to check out:

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon Junction): Bucket list-worthy glamping! If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, check out their safari tents in the desert.
• Red Feather Lodge (Tusayan): Located a few minutes from the entrance to the park, this is a solid value with simple rooms in a perfect location. Plus, relatively affordable!
• Holiday Inn Express or Best Western Premier (Tusayan): Two well-rated, good value hotels just outside the south entrance. Not a whole lot of bells and whistles here, but a pleasant place to use as a home base for exploring the Grand Canyon.

Williams and Flagstaff will have you driving for an hour (or more) each way to and from the rim of the Grand Canyon, and we wouldn’t recommend staying there if you can avoid it.

Day 7: Drive to Phoenix & Fly Home

The drive back to Phoenix is going to take you about four hours from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Plan on booking an afternoon / evening flight to give yourself plenty of time for the drive back.

Longer Itinerary Options (10 & 14 Days)

If you have a full 10 days or even two weeks, you’ll unlock more possibilities for your trip.

Here’s how we would spend 10 days and 14 days in Arizona.

How to Spend 10 Days in Arizona

With 10 days, we think you should add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park on the front end of your road trip, and Page, Arizona on the tail end after the Grand Canyon.

For this version of the itinerary, pick up your rental car in Phoenix and head south to Tucson, where you’ll spend the first 2-3 days. Then, continue on the road trip above as written. On the second-to-last day, head up to Page.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, drive to Tucson
• Day 2: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 4: Drive to Phoenix, afternoon in Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains, drive to Sedona
• Day 6: Sedona
• Day 7: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon
• Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park + Drive to Page
• Day 10: Page + Drive to Phoenix + Head Home

Tucson and Saguaro National Park

Southern Arizona is a vastly different landscape than northern Arizona, which is what the 7 day itinerary above focuses on. With more time, you’ll be able to dip your toes in the southern Arizona water (just kidding, this is the desert!), but you won’t be able to see it all.

For your introduction to southern Arizona, we think you should focus on the area around Tucson.

What to Do in Tucson

There are two main focuses for your time in Tucson – Saguaro National Park (there are two parts!) and Mt. Lemmon .

Saguaro National Park

First, you should know that there are two parts of Saguaro National Park that straddle Tucson, one on either side. They are the Rincon Mountain District , which is on the east side of Tucson, and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. 

Stop at the Visitor Center in each part of the park to grab a map, fill up your water, and get ready to explore. There is nowhere to get food or drinks other than water within the park, so you’ll want to pack a lunch and plenty of snacks. 

Here are some things to do in each region of the park. 

In the Tucson Mountain District, which is smaller in area but has a higher density of cacti and is therefore more popular: 

• Drive the 5 mile Bajada Loop scenic drive , which is a loop consisting of Golden Gate Road and Hohokam Road. It’s unpaved, but is passable by all vehicles. Drive it counterclockwise, starting with Hohokam road and ending on Golden Gate. This is a great way to explore the park, especially if you make stops at the Valley View Overlook Trail (extend it a bit by combining it with the Wild Dog Trail ) to get up close and personal with a ton of cacti, and the Signal Hill area, where you’ll find petroglyphs at the top of the hill. 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike , do the hike up to Wasson Peak either from the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead (7.5 miles / 1,600 feet of elevation) or via the Hugh Norris Trailhead (8.9 miles / 2,400 feet of elevation gain). 
• Stop at the Red Hills Visitor Center to walk the short loop through the cactus garden and pick up some maps and park information. 
• The Desert Discovery Center , which is outside the park’s southern boundary, is worth a stop either on the way in or out to learn about all the flora and fauna in the desert. 

In the Rincon Mountain District, which is the bigger but less popular part of the park on the east side of Tucson (If you only have time for one, we’d recommend the Tucson Mountain District. However, if you have time for both, this section of the park makes for a nice combination with Mt. Lemmon, since there’s only really about a half day worth of things to do and see here.):

• The number one thing you should do is drive Cactus Forest Loop Drive , which is a huge loop that takes you through the majority of the park. It is paved, and well worth the time. Stop at the Freeman Homestead Nature Trail , the Loma Verde Trail (do a loop with the Squeeze Pen Trail for a nice stroll through the desert), and the Cactus Forest Overlook . 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike, there are a bunch of great options leaving from the Broadway Trailhead at the northwest corner of the park and the Douglas Spring Trailhead along the northern boundary. 

Then, head to Mt. Lemmon for a completely different perspective on Tucson and the surrounding area. 

At 9,159 feet above sea level, Mt. Lemmon is a completely different place than Tucson. It’s likely going to be 20-30 degrees cooler, which means different ecosystems thrive here on the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains. 

To put it in perspective, the average high temperature in July in Tucson is 100 degrees F. On Mt. Lemmon, it’s 76 degrees. 

Would you believe me if I told you there’s a SKI RESORT on Mt. Lemmon?

You should definitely drive all the way to the top – Summerhaven. It’s 26 miles, and the landscape gradually shifts over the course of the journey. At the top, you’ll be in the woods. In Arizona. Which is an odd feeling when just an hour or two ago you were driving through Saguaro National Park, home of a bazillion cacti. 

Stop by Windy Point Vista and San Pedro Vista on the way up for great views of the surrounding area. 

There’s a bunch of things to do and see in the town of Summerhaven at the top, whether you want to hike or just peruse shops, but we think the drive itself is by far the best part about Mt. Lemmon.

If you’re looking for a great, relatively easy hike, head out to the Mt. Lemmon Fire Lookout Station. It’s 2.1 miles round trip with 360 feet of elevation gain, and you can make a nice loop of it by returning via the Meadow trail. 

Where to Stay in Tucson

There are exactly zero campgrounds to stay at in Tucson, so your only options are going to be hotels and vacation rentals. Since you have two nights, you have your choice between staying in a hotel, which will provide more convenience and flexibility but less space, and vacation rentals, which give you more space and usually a kitchen, but less flexibility.

If you’re looking for a hotel, stay at Hotel McCoy , a cool hotel on the outskirts of town that’s perfect for exploring Saguaro National Park, or the Tuxon or the Graduate Hotel , which are both closer in to town and the amenities in Tucson.

Page, Arizona: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Page is a good home base for exploring two now Insta-famous sights in Arizona: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend .

I know Page as the jumping off point for renting a houseboat on Lake Powell, which my family has done twice now. Other than those three things, there’s not a whole lot going on, which makes it a perfect half-day addition after the Grand Canyon.

We’d recommend leaving the Grand Canyon on the afternoon of your last day to make it to Horseshoe Bend for sunset. Keep in mind, you’ll be with hundreds of your new closest friends – it’s a popular spot. You’ll need to get there early if you want a prime location.

Then, the next morning, get up early and head to Antelope Canyon . It’s on Navajo land, and is only accessible via guided tours, which take between one and a half to two hours. Grab an early 8am departure, which will give you plenty of time to head back to Phoenix afterwards and catch your flight home (or start the drive home, if you drove).

Where to Stay in Page

Stay at the Desert Canyon Inn , which is where we had booked a room before we had to cut our trip a bit short. They have basic apartments – complete with kitchens! – in a perfect location in downtown Page.

What to Do in Arizona With 14 Days

With a full two weeks, you’ve got options. At a high level, you could either make a big loop, including Monument Valley and Page, or you could tack on Zion National Park at the end of your trip, and fly out of Vegas.

For this itinerary, head south to Tucson first, then spend two days in Phoenix before heading up to Sedona, on to the Grand Canyon, then to Page for a night before heading to Zion National Park, which is technically in Utah, but close enough, right?

Note that we’re skipping Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley. It’s not that they aren’t cool and worth seeing. It’s that we think you’re better served focusing on western Arizona here, and making a return trip to explore eastern Arizona. 

Otherwise, you’ll spend WAY too much time driving – and those drives are not particularly scenic, though there are some nice spots along the way – and not enough time actually exploring. 

For reference, it’s going to take you four and a half hours to go from Tucson to Petrified Forest National Park, another three or more hours to go from there to Monument Valley, and another two hours to get to Page. All in the span of about 36 hours, because there’s really not that much to do along that route. 

We think your time is better spent immersing yourself in Tucson, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon (and Zion). Some might disagree, but that’s our perspective. 

Here’s what that itinerary looks like:

• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park + Mt. Lemmon
• Day 4: Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains (sleep in Phoenix)
• Day 7: Sedona
• Day 8: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon in evening
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 10: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 11: Page (Antelope Canyon morning + Horseshoe Bend sunset)
• Day 12: Drive to Zion
• Day 13: Zion 
• Day 14: Drive to Vegas and Fly Home (stop at Valley of Fire if you have time)

Wondering what to do in Zion National Park? We’ve got you covered. 

• How to Plan a Perfect Zion National Park Itinerary
• Where to Stay at Zion National Park

The Best Time to Road Trip in Arizona

Essentially, we’d say “anytime other than the summer.” But ideally spring and fall – March and April, and September and October being the best months.

We spent three weeks on this road trip in the spring in April, and it was very, very pleasant. In Phoenix, it’s still going to be warm, but not unbearable just yet – think 80’s and 90’s during the day. In higher elevation Sedona and the Grand Canyon, it’ll be slightly cooler, even downright cold in the Grand Canyon at night.

In the fall , it’s going to be similar, with relatively warm temperatures in Phoenix and southern Arizona that start to cool off as you head north into the higher elevation parts of the state.

The winter is also a decent time to visit, particularly in southern Arizona (Phoenix and Tucson). However, you could run into snow in Sedona and the Grand Canyon, which can put a damper on your trip.

Summer in Arizona is going to be borderline unbearable, with temperatures regularly over 100 degrees, and huge crowds of people – particularly families with kids out of school – flocking to places like the Grand Canyon. You’ll need to book things well in advance if you visit during the summer, and be prepared for incredibly hot weather.

More Arizona + Utah Travel Guides

If you liked this guide, you’re going to love our other Arizona and Utah travel guides.

Phoenix : Plan a perfect weekend in Phoenix , and figure out where to stay in Phoenix.

The Grand Canyon : Planning a trip that includes the Grand Canyon? We’ve got you covered with a guide on exactly how to plan an amazing Grand Canyon itinerary and how to find the perfect place to stay .

Sedona : Plan the perfect weekend getaway to Sedona , and learn everything you need to know to go hiking in Sedona .

If you’re making your way into Utah , you’ll want to read our guides to:

• Zion ( 2 day itinerary and where to stay )
• Bryce Canyon (the best hikes and how to spend one day in Bryce Canyon )
• Moab ( a perfect itinerary , the best hikes in Arches , and the best places to stay and things to do )

Plus, our 10 day Utah National Parks road trip is a super detailed guide to exploring Utah, if you’ve got the time. Otherwise, save it for later.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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12 Best Road Trips From Phoenix

Phoenix is the capital of the US state of Arizona. This city is famous for its outstanding hotel resorts , desert gardens, and year-round hot temperature. The city of phoenix is rather new. It was founded in February 1881. It has an area of about 1340 square kilometers.

The Phoenix is a beautiful place and has many amazing places nearby to explore. Here we curated the best Road Trips From Phoenix.

Road Trips From Phoenix

Talking about road trips, there are plenty of them that you can take from the city of Phoenix. Here we curated

1. The Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon is one of America’s best-known natural features situated just 224 miles from Phoenix. There are quite a number of activities that you can do there. To reach the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, you can take Interstate 17 north to Flagstaff. After it, take Interstate 40 west that reaches Williams. At Exit 164, head north on State Route 64 to the town of Tusayan, from where it’s about a 230-mile drive to the destination. 

2. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a desert resort city in California. It is situated at a distance of around 270 miles from Phoenix. Known for hot weather, golf courses and spas, a road trip to Palm Springs is worth it. There is an art museum, a mind-blowing aerial tramway tour, a dino museum, and whatnot. If you are planning a visit with family or friends, trust me, you won’t regret it. 

3. Mogollon Rim

On Route 87 to the town of Payson, lies a 2000 foot tall ridge known as Mogollon Rim. It runs about 200 miles through Arizona. The area is a part of Tonto National Forest. The top of the ridge is a lot cooler than the Phoenix city area. The javelinas are a common occurrence here. Overall, Mogollon Rim is a great road trip from Phoenix.

Surrounded by vivid red rock mountains, Sedona is quite a popular destination among travelers. Although the town consists of around 10000 people, Sedona is one of the most scenic towns in the entire Southwest. There is a lot to do in this small town. You can go hiking, shopping, biking, and sightseeing. There are many great eateries here. The temperate weather of this town is almost perfect for anything you want to do.  

5. Sonoran Desert

Nearly all the southern half of Arizona is a desert-like land called the Sonoran Desert. The thing about this place is the vast variety of ecosystems. About all the world’s biomes can be found here including tundra, desert, grassland, deciduous forest, and coniferous. The type of track in the Sonoran Desert is a dirt road. There are also short hiking trails all around the place. Some man-made establishments like gardens, aquariums, and an aviary can also be found here. 

6. Montezuma Castle National Monument

This place is righteously an heirloom from the past. It was carved into an apartment-like housing by a native American tribe by the name of Sinagua. The tribe was the origins; inhabitants of the area about 600 hundred years ago. President Theodore Roosevelt honored the site by naming it one of the country’s first national monuments in 1906. Today, there is an on-site museum here and visitors can visit it freely. 

7. Saguaro National Park

This park was built originally to ensure the survival of the Saguaro Cactus. Today the Saguaro Cactus stands as a symbol of the American West. At present, the park offers various activities like camping, trekking, and of course, desert landscape sightseeing. The park is open all around the year with Christmas Day as an exception. There are also special nighttime events that are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. 

8. Prescott

Prescott was the former original capital of Arizona. This was changed because of the extreme weather conditions of this place and the dependency of the railroad to reach the place. Today, Prescott is a small city of 40,000 people. Historical buildings from the Victorian era have been preserved till now. You can visit here all around the year. There are various shopping establishments, restaurants, golf courses, and a small zoo here. The temperature is also temperate here.

9. Flagstaff

At an elevation of about 7000 feet, Flagstaff is an amazing place to visit. The weather here is very different from that in Phoenix. The city is surrounded by pine trees. There are many historic buildings and sports stores here. The iconic Route 66 is also partly present in the downtown area of the city. During the winters, it snows a lot at Flagstaff which makes the city even more majestic and beautiful. Just outside the town, there is Arizona Snowbowl ski hill which is a famous ski resort built on the slopes of an inactive volcano. 

10. The mission of San Xavier del Bac

Often known as “The White Dove of the Desert”. This Catholic parish has been in the service of the people since 1797. Before becoming part of the United States, it was a part of Spain and Mexico. The architecture of the building is based on the Spanish style. The church is open for masses and special events. There is a museum and a gift shop in the church. 

11. Tortilla Flat

Tortilla Flat is yet another good road trip from Phoenix. The striking feature of this place. Well, it is solace. With a single-digit population and a couple of buildings, this place is famous among travelers for solace and lunches. If you wanna ride away from the crowd, this is the place. Activities that can be done here are hiking, strolling by the Apache Lake, and taking a great cruise of the Canyon Lake. 

If you are interested in mining, or just wanna explore a mining city, head over to Jerome. Jerome is located ninety miles north of Phoenix. In earlier days, Jerome was a thriving copper mining community that got ghost towns during the Depression. The town is popular today as a tourist spot. You can still find shops and various other establishments from the mining days. 

Phoenix’s prestigious neighborhood is home to many important archaeological sites, wonders, and parks offering a plethora of outdoor adventures. There are a great number of road trips from Phoenix that can lead you to places you have never seen before.

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Epic 1 Week Phoenix to Page AZ Road Trip

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Looking for an unforgettable road trip that showcases all of the best natural beauty of Arizona , one of the most beautiful places in the USA ? Take a Phoenix to Page AZ road trip!

This beautiful road trip through Arizona is brought to you by Kate from Kate Roams the World , a travel nurse by profession and a traveler, and a travel blogger by passion. Presently in Philly, she has been lucky to live in different states on the US West Coast – California, Colorado, Arizona, and Washington.

Arizona Road Trip: A Beautiful Drive from Phoenix to Page

270 miles separate Phoenix from Page and the drive nonstop takes about 4 ½ hours. But in a state like Arizona, you’ll find endless detours and things to do along the way.

This Arizona road trip takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the state, including towering red rock formations, deep canyons, serene lakes, and cacti larger than life.

Along the way, you’ll discover hidden gems like ancient Native American ruins and charming small towns. Whether you’re a nature lover or just seeking an adventurous road trip for your next vacation, this drive is one not to be missed.

In this post, I’ll share the best stops to make on a Phoenix to Page drive. All the best hikes, viewpoints, and art & cultural immersions along the way!

PS : If you’ve time, you can explore Arizona as a part of a bigger Southwest USA road trip .

Phoenix to Page Arizona Road Trip: Basics

Best time to visit arizona.

The best times to visit Arizona are the spring and fall months. These months don’t have the extreme temperatures and weather that the summer and winter months can bring.

The summer months of June- August can bring average temperatures as high as 107°F in Phoenix. Summer is also the monsoon season in Arizona’s desert, which can bring heavy rains, flash flooding, and high winds.

Winter months can be cool and comfortable in the lower elevation parts of the desert like Phoenix. But expect below-freezing temperatures in higher elevation destinations such as the Grand Canyon.

Although if you can brave the cold and some snow, a visit in the winter can offer more solitude. Places like Sedona and the Grand Canyon will have considerably fewer crowds and may make your experience more enjoyable. But do keep in mind some trails or activities may be closed during the winter season.

Spring and fall months are optimal since the temperatures in the desert and high elevations will be comfortable when most attractions are open. But since these are the peak tourist seasons, be prepared for more crowds.

How to Get to Phoenix, AZ

Fly into Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport. You will need a rental car for this trip, so pick one up at one of the many car rental companies at the airport.

For this road trip we have listed below you can certainly stick to an economy car or sedan if you’d like with no need to upgrade to a 4×4 vehicle.

Best Stops on your Phoenix AZ to Page AZ Road Trip

Prescott & jerome.

• Grand Canyon National Park
• Marble Canyon

Phoenix to Page Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

Phoenix to page az road trip day 1: phoenix.

With one full day in Phoenix, pick one or two of the many hikes around the city.

Some of the best hikes around Phoenix are:

• The Wave Cave (3.2 miles roundtrip & 870 ft elevation gain)
• Peralta trail to Weaver’s Needle (5.8 miles & 1560 ft elevation gain)
• Piestawa Peak- Best sunrise hike in Phoenix! (2.2 miles & 1150 ft elevation gain)
• Camelback Mountain (2.4 miles & 1320 elevation gain)

If you’re not up for hiking stop by the huge Desert Botanical Garden to see thousands of flourishing cacti and plant species.

Picacho Peak State Park and the Lost Dutchman State Park both offer jaw-dropping mountain views for you to simply walk up to. The Lost Dutchman State Park makes for a stunning sunset location.

Those wanting to soak in some art and culture – stop by Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix. This is a walkable downtown art district with street murals around every corner. You’ll also find plentiful art galleries, museums, restaurants, and bars.

Phoenix to Page AZ Road Trip Day 2: Drive from Phoenix to Sedona

On your second day in Arizona, drive to the red rock paradise that is Sedona. If you have a couple more hours to spare, consider taking a detour to the small towns of Prescott and Jerome.

This detour will take about 1 ½ more hours of driving time, plus any time you spend in the towns themselves.

In Prescott, you can stop by the stunning Watson Lake to go kayaking or paddleboarding. Whiskey Row , a historic section of the town, is full of Old West bars and saloons that will make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time.

Next drive from Prescott to Jerome, a once flourishing mining town and the 3rd largest city in Arizona.

A huge amount of dynamite was set off in the 1930s which caused a large amount of the town to collapse. Because of this history, it is now known as a ghost town .

Today it is a tourist destination and art haven with many galleries and art shops. Or visit the creepy ruins of the Bartlett Hotel or the Sliding Jail . You can join a guided Jerome Ghost Walk .

If you’ve driven up to Sedona via the long route from Phoenix stopping in Prescott and Jerome, you’ll probably arrive in Sedona sometime in the afternoon.

Get something to eat at the Hideaway House to enjoy Italian fare with amazing red rock views.

End your day with a sunset hike.

Some of the best sunset hikes in Sedona are:

• Bell Rock (0.8 miles roundtrip & 200 ft elevation gain)
• Cathedral Rock (1.2 miles roundtrip & 740 ft elevation gain)
• Red Rock Crossing Viewpoint
• Doe Mountain (1.5 miles roundtrip & 510 ft elevation gain)
• Munds Wagon trail to Merry Go Round Rock – my favorite! (6.5 miles roundtrip & 1100 ft elevation gain)

Sedona, an International Dark Sky Community , has amazing stargazing opportunities . So stay up late and look up at the sky – you may even see the milky way!

Phoenix to Page AZ Road Trip Day 3: Sedona

With one day in Sedona, you’ll want to get an early start as there is so much to do in this little town, a highlight of any Arizona bucket list !

A lot of the hikes in Sedona are rather short and many trailheads are near each other, so it’s easy to fit in a few hikes in one day.

Below are the best hikes in Sedona broken down into more popular and less popular. Do the more popular trails early in the morning or in the mid-afternoon for the least crowds.

Don’t assume that just because a hike is less popular that it is not as stunning- you really can’t go wrong with any trail in Sedona!

Most popular Sedona trails:

• Devils Bridge (4 miles roundtrip & 520 ft elevation gain)
• Soldier Pass trail to the caves and 7 sacred pools (4.5 miles roundtrip & 840 ft elevation gain)
• Birthing Cave (2 miles roundtrip & 300 ft elevation gain)
• Subway Cave via Boynton Canyon (6 miles roundtrip & 820 ft elevation gain)

Sedona hikes with fewer crowds:

• Keyhole Cave : one of my favorites! (2.2 miles roundtrip & 470 ft elevation gain)
• Shaman’s Cave via Robbers Roost trail (3 miles roundtrip & 460 ft elevation gain)
• Fay Canyon Arch trail (1.5 miles roundtrip & 245 ft elevation gain)
• Bear Mountain (5 miles & 2025 ft elevation gain)

Not up for hiking? There is plenty of easy access to beautiful views around Sedona.

Visit Airport Mesa , Slide Rock State Park , or simply enjoy the views from the shops in Uptown Sedona .

There are also plentiful tours and activities to do, such as the infamous Pink Jeep Tours that go off-roading to some of the best sights Sedona has to offer.

Or get an adrenaline rush by going off-roading and driving yourself on a guided ATV tour .

Phoenix to Page AZ Road Trip Day 4: Sedona to Grand Canyon via Flagstaff

The next day you’ll want to wake up and start your scenic 2 ½ hour drive to Grand Canyon National Park !

You’ll drive through the beautiful and densely forested Oak Creek up to Flagstaff.

Stretch your legs and walk around downtown Flagstaff. Admire the San Francisco peaks , with Humphrey’s Peak being the tallest mountain in the state.

Arrive at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park in the afternoon. Pick from some viewpoints and hikes listed below.

Don’t forget to enjoy an unforgettable sunset to end your day!

Best viewpoints in the Grand Canyon:

• Mather Point
• Grandview Point
• Yavapai Point
• Mohave Point
• Desert View (views of the Colorado River!)

Best half-day hikes in the Grand Canyon:

• Ooh Aah Point via South Kaibab trail (1.8 miles round trip & 685 ft elevation gain)
• South Kaibab trail to Cedar Ridge (3.1 miles & 1,180 ft elevation gain)
• 1.5-mile Resthouse via Bright Angel trail (3.2 miles & 1,180 ft elevation gain)

I highly suggest booking a night at one of the lodges on the South Rim , you do have to book a room in advance but the prices are more reasonable than you’d expect.

Staying in the National Park itself is super convenient!

Recommended Read: The Most Beautiful National Parks in the USA The Most Beautiful National Parks in the World

Phoenix to Page AZ Road Trip Day 5: Grand Canyon

Try to set an early alarm to wake up to watch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon- it is stunning and a big bucket list moment!

Spend a full or half day at the Grand Canyon on this day, depending on how fast you want to get to Page.

Hit up some more viewpoints or hikes in the Grand Canyon you didn’t get to the day prior and then head off to Page.

The drive from the Grand Canyon to Page will take you about 2 ½ hours. On the way to Page, you’ll pass through the stunning Marble Canyon .

If you’re not tired yet, stop and do the 1.3-mile round-trip hike to Horseshoe Bend for sunset!

Planning on camping while in Page? Go to Lone Rock Beach on the shores of Lake Powell for the dreamiest place to rest your head at night!

Phoenix to Page AZ Road Trip Day 6: Page

With one full day in Page, you have a few options. If you want to get out on the water for a full day during the warmer months, I highly suggest renting a small boat for the day and cruising around Lake Powell.

Out of all of my Arizona memories, this is at the top. Being on the turquoise waters with the orange canyon walls towering above you is really spectacular.

You could also join a guided kayak tour and paddle a few miles into Lower Antelope Canyon and hike in the slot canyon. This is also a fantastic and truly unique experience!

On the Navajo Nation you can go on a walking tour of the famous Antelope Canyon , a slot canyon with walls so smooth they look like they were sculpted.

Buckskin Gulch , a one-hour drive from Page, AZ, is a hiking trail with amazing rock formations and another slot canyon.

Or hike to the ‘ New Wave ’ trail . At less than 1 mile round trip this hike features beautifully textured rocks that resemble the Wave, a trail that is notoriously hard to get a permit for.

Phoenix to Page AZ Road Trip Day 7: Drive back from Page to Phoenix

Head back down to Phoenix on your last day. The drive direct from Page to Phoenix takes just over 4 hours.

Have more time? Pick another activity around Page in the morning or head down to Phoenix early to do some more sightseeing or hiking!

Conclusion: Phoenix to Page Arizona Road Trip

In conclusion, a road trip from Phoenix to Page, AZ offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

From exploring the stunning landscapes of Sedona and the Grand Canyon to hiking through the colorful slot canyons of Antelope Canyon, this journey is full of incredible sights and experiences that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

With plenty of exciting stops along the way, including scenic overlooks, historic landmarks, and charming small towns, this road trip is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature’s splendor .

So pack your bags, hit the open road, and get ready for an epic adventure on one of America’s most scenic routes !

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Road Trip From Phoenix To The Grand Canyon

If you're looking for a respite from the scorching heat of Arizona's capital, a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon might be just what you're looking for. The route mapped out below happens to be incredibly scenic, so your journey will be every bit as gorgeous as the (admittedly epic) destination.

The road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon takes 4 hours and 30 minutes. Make time to cool off at Lake Pleasant and Slide Rock State Park, marvel at Montezuma Castle and the red rocks of Sedona on the way, and explore the scenic Flagstaff area.

This itinerary is truly unlike any other in the States, so continue reading to get an idea of just what you're in for.

How far is Grand Canyon from Phoenix and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon covers around 225 miles and can be done in 4 hours and 30 minutes if you drive through Sedona (and you have every reason to do so!). You can essentially take off whenever you want and still make it to the Canyon that same day.

With that said, this is one of the most unique and beautiful itineraries in this part of America and most definitely the best one in Arizona. Instead of trying to squeeze everything into a single day, stop along the way and do as much sightseeing as you can.

Another reason to split the trip up is that you're very likely to get caught in traffic at least once. Phoenix is a huge city and can really do a number on your travel time, and Sedona is the textbook definition of a tourist town, so you can expect moderate to heavy traffic throughout most of the year.

Best road trip route from Phoenix to Grand Canyon

The best road trip route from Phoenix to Grand Canyon passes through the Red Rock Scenic Byway – although you can arrive an hour quicker by avoiding this road and Sedona altogether, you'd definitely be missing out, as this is arguably the most scenic stretch of the entire trip.

Whether you're flying into Phoenix or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Road trip route from Phoenix to Grand Canyon

Take Interstate 17 out of Phoenix, past Phoenix Sonoran Preserve and Lake Pleasant. Drive through Black Canyon City and cross the Verde River, and check out Montezuma Castle National Monument before resting at The Crack at Beaver Creek.

Past Montezuma Well, get on State Route 179 (or the Red Rock Scenic Byway) and follow it through the quaint Village of Oak Creek. Past Red Rock State Park and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, you'll enter Sedona – this is the perfect place for a stop if you haven't made one yet (and even if you have!)

Leave the city and follow another scenic road, State Route 89A, through Slide Rock State Park and past various hiking trails to the city of Flagstaff. From there, follow Interstate 40 as it runs parallel to the Historic Route, then make a right onto State Route 64 – stay on this road all the way to Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Park.

Best places to stop between Phoenix and Grand Canyon

Short or not, this scenic route will command your full attention, so you'll need to stop somewhere overnight and cover as much ground as you can. These are some of the best hotels along this amazing route:

Explore the unique and beautiful Sedona

Thanks to its signature red rock formations, Sedona is a staple of any good Arizona road trip. Being the tourist magnet that it is, the city features plenty of great hotels, but Adobe Grand Villas stand out among the crowd.

With their unique, adobe-inspired design and exquisite attention to detail, the rooms at this resort are nothing short of incredible – they're all fairly different from each other aesthetically, so every return trip will feel like a brand new experience for you. Besides just looking great, the rooms come equipped with fireplaces, as well as amazing window views of the desert and the colorful garden.

Hiking and canyoneering can take a lot out of you, so Adobe Grand Villas' swimming pool and spa areas will relax you and have you up and running for the next day's adventure. You can enjoy a 3-course meal at the on-site Adobe Grand Restaurant, and you'll be greeted with freshly baked bread before you've even unpacked your bags.

Topping everything off is the great location – many of Sedona's main attractions will be within walking distance or a short drive away. The price you pay for a room at the Adobe is well above those of most other Sedona hotels, but then again, so is the quality of the accommodation.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Relax at the Grand Canyon in style

When picking out a hotel at GC (or near any major national park), it's important not to make a hasty decision and pick a lousy hotel – you are on vacation, after all, and there's more to the experience than hiking and sightseeing. A great hotel in the area that ticks all the boxes is the Best Western Plus Inn of Williams.

From its stylish, comfortable rooms to the cozy lounge area, you will feel right at home during your visit. Nothing beats a relaxing dip in a heated outdoor pool or hot tub after a long day spent outdoors, and after a swim, you will go to sleep completely invigorated.

On top of that, throw in a glass of wine and a romantic dinner at the amazing on-site steakhouse for good measure. If you somehow still have the strength to move, blow off some steam in the fitness area before bed.

This hotel also very affordable, all things considered – considering that many mediocre resorts in the Grand Canyon area are usually on the expensive side because they're near the national park, the Best Western Plus Inn of Williams is an absolute bargain in every way imaginable.

Things to see on a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon

As opposed to rushing straight to GC, wait until you have at least a week of free time to explore as you drive along this route. These are just a few of the countless places worth checking out during your road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon:

• Phoenix Sonoran Reserve – Featuring plenty of hiking trails and vast expanses of cacti and other desert plants, this reserve is living proof that the desert can be just as beautiful as any field or meadow.
• Lake Pleasant Regional Park – As it's one of the larger bodies of water in the area, Lake Pleasant is one of the go-to spots for water-related sports and activities in Arizona.
• Sunset Point – Offers a great view of Black Canyon City and, as the name suggests, a beautiful view of the sun setting behind the mountains.
• Montezuma Castle National Monument - This early example of a ‘housing complex' is a testament to the resourcefulness of the Sinagua people.
• Red Rock State Park – Combining unique rock formations, luscious greenery, and the scenic Oak Creek Canyon, there's a reason why this is the state's most significant environmental education park.
• Chapel of the Holy Cross – Thanks to its unique design and positioning between Sedona's buttes, this chapel is a sight to behold, irrespective of religious beliefs.
• Sedona – Parks, wineries, red rocks, and the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village all help make this city the heart and soul of Arizona.
• Coconino National Forest – With terrain featuring everything from deserts to mountains, this forest alone warrants days of exploration.
• Slide Rock State Park – Features an all-natural water slide and the beautiful red rocks that make this itinerary so special.
• Flagstaff – A major city sandwiched between various landmarks, each more scenic than the last.
• Walnut Canyon National Monument – Another example of the ingenuity of the Sinagua, who took advantage of the canyon's unique form to create their pueblos.
• Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument – This monument protects the beautiful Sunset Crater, which hasn't erupted in around a millennium.
• Williams – A lively, artsy city that carries with it the spirit of the Historic Route 66.
• Kaibab National Forest – The ‘entrance' to Grand Canyon stands out thanks to its beautiful ponderosa pines among a sea of Aspen trees.
• Vermillion Cliffs National Monument – Featuring a beautiful blend of buttes, sandstone formations, and gulches, this area demonstrates the desert at its very best.

Spreading the trip out over several days will leave you room for some bigger detours you might enjoy – taking a few extra hours to check out Prescott, Horseshoe Bend, and other deviations from the route would do wonders for this already-amazing trip.

Best time to go on a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon

There's really no objectively ‘best' season to go on a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon, but visiting during different seasons can have different perks.

Although the park is definitely still beautiful in the winter, visiting around this time can be hard to recommend – on top of having limited lodging options, you'll mainly just have access to the South Rim, and while every effort is made to keep the roads as clean as possible, the low temperatures and high elevations can make it difficult to get around.

Naturally, the crowds at the Canyon will be largest in the summer, but this is also when temperatures are at their highest. The good news is that Phoenix is generally hotter than any other part of this itinerary (save for some of the lower-altitude spots at GC), so if you're accustomed to the heat in the capital, you should have no trouble driving north once you're out of the city.

If you want to avoid extremes, both in terms of crowds and temperatures, fall and spring are both great for a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon. The only catch is that you'll want to avoid visiting in early-to-mid spring after a particularly snowy winter, because there's likely to be leftover snow at higher altitudes well into April.

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12 Best Stops on the Phoenix to Las Vegas Drive

Last Updated on January 15, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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The Phoenix to Las Vegas drive is not a route that typically excites people. In fact, the fastest and most common route between the two cities along the US-93 highway doesn’t pass through anything of interest and can, at times, feel as if you’re just trudging along through barren, endless desert.

However, if you take the time to venture away from the quickest route and decide to take a leisurely scenic drive and make a bit of a road trip out of it, you will have the opportunity to see and experience some of the most incredible natural and historical sites that the great state of Arizona has to offer .

While there are countless things to do in Phoenix and we all know that Las Vegas is a stand-alone destination in itself, it’s time to make the drive just as fun and interesting!

Table of Contents

Planning a Phoenix to Las Vegas Road Trip

Before I get into all of the amazing stops to make on the route from Phoenix to Las Vegas , we need to cover a few logistics first.

If you’re not taking your own vehicle, you’re likely going to need to rent a car. And while you might be inclined just to take a look online at your favourite rental company, we would prefer finding your perfect car hire via Rentalcars.com . This platform aggregates deals across many rental car companies to ensure that you get a great price on your car hire.

Alternatively, you can choose to hire an RV or campervan through Outdoorsy for more flexibility and to save on accommodation costs.

Now that you know where to get your car from, we need to talk about the route you’re going to take. The stops along this drive don’t like on the most direct route to Las Vegas, however, no great road trip ever came to fruition by following the most efficient way to go, did it?

If you want to make a fun and engaging trip, then you’re going to need to ignore what Google Maps may tell you and decide which of these stops sound the most interesting to you.

The majority of these stops are located somewhere along (with a few detours) the Interstate-17 highway. However, if you want to visit a couple of stops (notably Payson and the Tonto Natural Bridge), you’re going to want to drive slightly northeast along the AZ-87 before heading back west and joining up with the I-17.

Distance from Phoenix to Las Vegas

The distance from Phoenix to Las Vegas along the US-93 N passing through Wickenburg & Kingman is only about 300 miles (or 482 kilometres) with the direct drive time taking about 5 hours. However as the scenic road trip is going to be a bit longer, I recommend that you spend a few days doing this trip to get the most out of it.

If you want to make a couple of stops along the way but don’t have time to include everything, then you only need one or two nights along the way. If you want to see everything on this list, then you’re going to want to spend three or four nights (or more) on this road trip.

Looking for other road trips from Phoenix? Check out our Phoenix to Denver drive , Phoenix to Grand Canyon drive & Phonix to Albuquerque drive articles!

Phoenix to Las Vegas Drive Stops

So without further ado, these are what I (born and raised in Arizona!) believe to be the best stops on the drive between Phoenix and Las Vegas and have the best road trip possible!

1. Old Town Scottsdale

This first stop doesn’t even have you leaving the greater Phoenix metro area — it is Old Town Scottsdale!

Scottsdale is well-known as a getaway for many looking for some winter sunshine, great eats, fantastic shopping, good golf, and world-class nightlife and there is no better place to experience all of that than in Old Town Scottsdale!

The Old Town area isn’t large, but there is a lot to see and do there. If you love to shop, then you’ll enjoy checking out all of the boutiques in the area. If you’re a fan of nightlife, then this is the area to go out in. If you are after a great meal, then you need to head to some of the area’s top-notch restaurants.

Modelled like an old western town, Scottsdale is an eclectic mix of old-world charm and modern amenities and it is the perfect place to begin any road trip to Vegas.

Spending the night in Phoenix? This centrally located 2 bedroom apartment in Scottsdale is a great option!

If you want to take your time as you get to Vegas from Phoenix and don’t mind making a pretty big detour, then make sure to work your way north along the AZ-87 instead of sticking to the interstate-17 from the get-go.

This drive outside of Phoenix is one of the most scenic that you will encounter, with an entire forest’s worth of Arizona’s iconic Saguaro cacti through your windows – a site you can only get in the American southwest.

About 90 minutes driving outside of Phoenix. you will reach the small town of Payson. While Arizona towns may draw images of tumbleweeds, cacti and desert dust, Payson is situated in the mountains and has a distinctly alpine feel to it.

The small town is worth exploring for a few hours and you can even enjoy some of the surrounding forest for a hike if you choose.

Though it isn’t infinitely exciting, Payson is a popular retreat for Phoenix locals in the summer months looking to cool off from the oppressive heat in the Valley of the Sun and there are lots of outdoor sports offerings that are sure to please.

3. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Not far from the town of Payson lies one of my favourite and one of the most underrated natural sites in Arizona, the Tonto Natural Bridge.

This incredible piece of natural scenery tucked within the lush Ponderosa pine forest is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge (stone arch) in the world and it is absolutely incredible to see.

Entry into the state park is $7 per person and from the car park, you can walk to four different viewpoints where you can see the bridge from numerous angles.

If you’re up for a bit of a hike and weather permitting, there are also a number of trails that you could take that bring you down under and around the bridge so you can truly experience the magnificence of this force of nature.

4. Prescott

If you forgo the detour to Payson and the Tonto Natural Bridge, then one of the best first stops on the drive would be the town of Prescott. Located a bit of a detour off of the I-17, Prescott is a charming small town that is very much worth exploring.

If you don’t want to stand out like the tourist that you are, make sure that you pronounce this town correctly — it’s Press-KITT, not Press-KOTT. Other than that, Prescott also has different things to offer than what one would typically assume of a town in Arizona.

Also situated in pine forest, Prescott is home to a charming town square and numerous picturesque small-town streets. There are lots of shops to browse and some great restaurants to grab a bit to eat at, as well.

If you want to spend a night here, make sure to head out to the bars on Whiskey Row and you will be greeted by traditional Western-style saloons along with some modern-style bars, as well.

Prescott has a lovely small-town vibe that you can’t get in a lot of places in Arizona and it makes it a great place to visit on a drive from Las Vegas to Phoenix or vice versa.

5. Montezuma Castle National Monument

The trip from Phoenix to Las Vegas is actually quite a diverse one and it’s not only filled with picturesque towns or natural sites. No, you can also visit some incredible historical sites as well! And one of the top historical sites to see on the drive is Montezuma Castle National Monument.

This pre-Columbian dwelling situated in a cave just outside of the town of Camp Verde, not far north of Prescott, was first discovered in the 1860s. It was called Montezuma’s Castle after the Aztec emperor because it was believed to be connected to that people group of Mexico (it wasn’t).

Archaeological findings since then have determined that the “castle” acted as something of a prehistoric apartment complex for the Sinagua people.

In fact, many people in Hopi clans (a tribe native to Arizona and other southwestern states) can trace their lineage to the people who once inhabited Montezuma’s castle.

Entry into the monument is $10 for adults and free for children under the age of 16. There are also a handful of public holidays throughout the year where entry into the monument is free.

6. Verde Valley

While Arizona may not be the first destination that springs to mind when it comes to grape cultivation, there is actually some incredible wine country located in the Verde Valley in Northern Arizona, near to the town of Cornville.

In the town of Cornville itself, you can visit several tasting rooms that offer wines made from nearby wineries, or you could visit some of the vineyards yourself. One of the most popular and highly acclaimed is Oak Creek Vineyards , a family-run boutique winery located just outside of Cornville.

Just keep in mind that Arizona has some of the strictest drink-driving laws in the country, so make sure you’re sober enough to take the wheel after you have a wine tasting!

One of the absolute best attractions on a road trip from Phoenix to Vegas is the inimitable town of Sedona. Known for its iconic red rock formations and incredible natural scenery, there are a lot of things to do that could easily keep you occupied for a couple of days in Sedona.

If you’re a nature lover, this is the stop for you! Encompassed by countless hiking trails providing beautiful vistas of the surrounding area, there is a hike for all kinds of fitness levels.

If you would rather see it on four wheels, maybe opt for an iconic Jeep tour of Sedona’s red rocks.

There are lots of different jeep tours to choose from, for instance, this jeep tour takes you to Mogollon Rim or this one will drive you to some of the vortexes that are iconic in Sedona.

The town itself is also worth exploring, with lots of independent shops and great restaurants abounding. Take the time to browse the boutiques in Tlaquepaque village or even get your palm read in one of the many new-age centres in the town!

Want to spend the night in Sedona? This lovely peaceful cottage is a great option!

8. Slide Rock State Park

Just a bit north of Sedona lies one of the most fun stops on the drive — Slide Rock State Park!

This state park is located in Oak Creek Canyon where a natural water slide has formed from years of Oak Creek eroding the red rocks.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, make sure to pack your swimsuits and get sliding as the current propels you along some of the smoothest rocks that you will ever see.

The water can be very chilly, but if you’re visiting on a hot summer’s day, it will be a welcome respite. The natural water slides may be unique, but the beautiful scenery surrounding the park is what makes this an incredible stop on this road trip.

9. Flagstaff

The biggest city outside of the Phoenix metro area on this drive, Flagstaff makes an excellent stop on the road trip and is certainly no ghost town.

Home to Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff is reminiscent of an alpine town and, if you visit in the wintertime, you will find the city buried beneath a thick layer of snow. In fact, the town is home to Arizona’s only ski resort — the Arizona Snow Bowl!

Because it is a university town, there are a lot of cool hangouts, bars and restaurants, making it a worthwhile stop on this road trip.

It is also a stop on the historic Route 66 — a driving route that was opened in 1926 (before the introduction of the interstate system) that connected Chicago to Los Angeles . You can find lots of Route 66 nostalgia and history in Flagstaff.

It is also a popular place to visit for outdoor lovers and makes a great jumping-off point to visit the Grand Canyon, as it is the largest city in Northern Arizona.

10. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Located about 30 minutes driving north of Flagstaff lies another of Arizona’s underrated natural sites — Sunset Crater Volcano.

This dormant cinder cone volcano is an incredible place to visit no matter the season (it’s particularly beautiful in the winter months buried underneath the snow) and makes for a unique stop on the Las Vegas to Phoenix drive.

When the volcano last erupted around 1085 CE, the environmental and cultural impact shaped the landscape and ethnological makeup of Arizona today.

Entry into the National Monument is $25 per passenger vehicle (so if you have 4 people in your car, it is $6.25 per person) and it is valid for one week upon purchase. There are a handful of free entry days throughout the year, so make sure to check their website to keep abreast of them.

11. Grand Canyon National Park

As one of the most popular side-trips from Las Vegas, one of the most visited national parks in the US, and honestly one of the most breathtaking natural sites in the entire world, visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the things that you have to do at least once in your lifetime.

Though many people will drive to a viewpoint, take a few photos, and then get back in their cars and get on their merry way, there is so much more that the Grand Canyon has to offer than this.

So please make sure that you take the time to properly do your research before visiting and plan your time at the canyon well. It is truly one of the most spectacular things you will ever see in your life!

If you’re driving from Phoenix to Las Vegas, the easiest place to visit in the Grand Canyon is going to be the South Rim. This is the most developed part of the canyon and has the most amenities, and therefore has the most tourist crowds.

If you want to escape the crowds, we recommend heading a bit further afield and visiting the North Rim, however, note that it is only open from May 15 to October 15 every year.

Regardless of which rim you visit, entry into the National Park is $35 per passenger vehicle and there are also a handful of free-entry days throughout the year. Check their website for details on the dates.

Want to spend the night near the Grand Canyon? Consider this peaceful forest cottage located nearby in Flagstaff.

12. Lake Mead National Recreation Area

The final stop driving towards Vegas from the Grand Canyon is situated on the border of Arizona and Nevada and is the perfect place to visit for lovers of watersports — Lake Mead!

A man-made lake as a result of the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead was first flooded on 30 September 1935 and is also the very first National Recreation Area inscribed and protected by the National Parks Service.

Lake Mead on the Colorado River acts as a reservoir and serves water to the states of Nevada, Arizona, and California as well as parts of Mexico. However, due to some severe drought in recent years, the lake is at historic lows.

Entry into Lake Mead National Recreation Area is $25 per vehicle and the entry is valid for one week following purchase. You could also stop at Hoover Dam and see how Lake Mead was created.

Where to Stay on the Drive from Phoenix to Las Vegas

Sedona Village Lodge – This hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a simple and affordable room. Located close to the city centre and also within easy reach of many hiking trails, they come very highly rated and have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available. 

Sky Ranch Lodge — If you are travelling on a slightly higher budget, then this romantic hotel is a fantastic option. Centrally located, they have a range of comfortable rooms available and a bar and restaurant on site. 

A Sunset Chateau — This luxury bed & breakfast is the ideal place to stay if you’re looking for a romantic escape. Ideally located for hiking trails and exploring the town, there are numerous amenities on offer and a great breakfast included in the nightly rare.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Sedona !

Hotel Elev8 Flagstaff — Located within easy reach of the downtown Flagstaff, there are a range of comfortable rooms available and the hotel also has a swimming pool and even a sauna on site!

Little America Hotel — This is an excellent high-end option with numerous amenities — including a lovely swimming pool and a great restaurant that serves breakfast lunch and dinner — and also has a range of spacious and comfortable rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Flagstaff

Horseshoe Las Vegas — If you’re looking to stay in a nice hotel on the strip without breaking the bank, then this is a great option for you. They have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available, numerous restaurants, bars, and a swimming pool on site, along with a casino and breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Bellagio — If you want to splash the cash in Las Vegas, then you cannot go wrong with booking a room at the iconic Bellagio. Located directly on the strip, this is one of the most famous hotels in Vegas and it includes countless amenities, a world-class casino, and even one of Sin City’s most famous Cirque du Soleil shows.

Sin City Hostel — If you’re looking to save money on accommodation when visiting the oasis in the Mojave Desert (Las Vegas), then this hostel is a great choice for you. They have a range of dorm beds available, an involved staff, great common areas, and social events organised most nights of the week.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Vegas hotels!

The Phoenix to Las Vegas drive doesn’t have to be a boring trek through an uninteresting desert. If you take the time to detour from the typical 93 highway route, you will find that there are numerous worthwhile stops along the way.

Are you planning a road trip between Phoenix and Las Vegas? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

9 Best Stops on a San Diego to Grand Canyon Road Trip

10 Best Stops on the Phoenix to Albuquerque Drive

8 Best Stops on the Phoenix to Grand Canyon Drive

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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Few things beat the thrill of a road trip.

While snacks, playlists and, in some cases, fur babies are essential ingredients for your next outing in the family truckster (Clark Griswold, anyone?), we recommend adding a few stops to explore some of the top hidden gems along the way.

The six-hour jaunt from the LA area to Phoenix is nearly a straight shot that takes you from coast to cactus, with plenty of historic landmarks and stunning scenery and explore in between — as long as you know where to look. Here are six stops to make your next journey just as exciting as the destination.

Before hitting the open road, be sure to check out these fall deals at Greater Phoenix hotels and resorts.

1. the cabazon dinosaurs.

Some roadside attractions can really withstand the test of time — which, in this case, is about 65 million years. No, seriously, the “world’s biggest outdoor display of prehistoric animals” debuted in 1975 and travelers of a certain age (though, not nearly as old) might recognize the super-sized tyrannosaurus rex and brontosaurus from such cult classics as “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure” and “The Wizard.”

While Mr. Rex's Dinosaur Adventure and the gift shop may be closed in accordance with CDC guidelines, the outdoor dinosaur trail and the photo ops are available seven days a week. Bonus: Stop by Friday through Sunday and treat yourself to a prehistoric-themed ice cream treat from the Wafflesaurus Truck, which is open from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Hours: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. ­– 7:30 p.m. Saturday & Sunday

Admission:  Adults, $13; children, $11; seniors and military, $10

Address: 50770 Seminole Drive, Cabazon, CA

Contact: 951-922-8700

If you like the Cabazon Dinosaurs, you'll love  Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs  at Arizona Boardwalk .

2. salton sea state park.

Just about 30 minutes off of I-10 sits the Salton Sea. While the history of this Basin dates back to ancient times, the lake was accidentally created by Colorado River runoff in 1905. The result was considered a "miracle in the desert." In the ’50 and ’60s it's warm water and sandy beaches drew droves of visitors – including Rock Hudson, Frank Sinatra, Jerry Lewis and other Hollywood elites – for a wide variety of recreation and relaxation activities. Hotels, motels, casinos and yacht clubs popped up along the lake’s 116-mile shoreline. But, in the '70s, heavy rain from a series of tropical storms caused the to flood its banks and devastated shoreline businesses and surrounding towns. 

While it's nothing like the resort town of decades past, the lake is an important stopover point for migrating birds, it's also the stage for spectacular sunsets and a variety of ever-changing public art ( t hink: small-scale Burning Man set against a post-apocalyptic landscape). Of course, at this point you're asking why would this spot make our list, and the answer is simple: one-of-a-kind photo ops. Just check out Instagram .

Hours: Day use and campground open 24 hours.

Admission: Day use area, $7; campground, $20; boat launch, $5

Address: 100-225 State Park Road, Mecca, CA   (north shore)

Contact:  760-393-3059

If you like the views and recreation of this state park, you'll love these  Greater Phoenix lakes .

3. joshua tree national park.

Although the national park has reopened for the public to enjoy, visitors are encouraged to review the alerts and conditions  here .

This national park has the distinction of encompassing two desert ecosystems: the Mojave and the Colorado. The result is a fascinating variety of desert plants, including the park's unmistakeable namesake, and animals — ranging from large herds of desert bighorn sheep and black-tailed jack rabbits to coyotes and kangaroo rats — make their homes in a land sculpted heat, strong winds and occasional torrents of rain.

Visitors can explore 800,000 acres of "dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness," and the park welcomes camping, backpacking, horseback riding, biking, birding, climbing, slacklining, hiking and stargazing. Leashed pets are welcome within 100 feet of roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

Additionally, the park is home to significant prehistoric and historic sites and artifacts, including art, shelters, pottery sherds and flaked stone from tool making. The earliest known inhabitants of the park was the Pinto Culture, more than 8,000 years ago.

Hours:  Open 24 hours a day, year-round. The visitor centers are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Admission: $30 per vehicle

Address: The Joshua Tree Visitor Center is located at  6554 Park Blvd., Joshua Tree, CA . The Oasis Visitor Center is located at  74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA .

Contact:  Joshua Tree Visitor Center: 760-366-1855 | Oasis Visitor Center: 760-367-5500

If you like the views and recreation of this state park, you'll love Phoenix's Papago Park .

4. general patton memorial museum.

If you find yourself asking what a museum dedicated to General Patton is doing out in the middle of the desert, we have the answer for you: In 1942, the War Department ordered Patton to create a desert training center in California to ready American combat troops for battle in North Africa during World War II. 

Today, the museum promotes peace by honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans while educating the public on modern U.S. military history through the preservation and interpretation of artifacts from the major conflicts of the 20th and 21st centuries. Exhibits include a large collection of tanks used in World War II and the Korean War, as well as memorabilia from Patton's life and career, and a Remembrance Wall, memorializing those who have protected our freedom — past and present.

Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4: 30 p.m. daily

Admission: Adults, $11; seniors and prior military, $9; ages 7-12, $6; ages 6 and under & active duty military, free.

Address:   62-510 Chiriaco Road, Chiriaco Summit, CA

Contact:  760-507-4143

If you like this museum, you'll love the USS Arizona Memorial Gardens at Salt River  in Phoenix.

5. kofa national wildlife refuge.

Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, visitors are encouraged to take the precautions outlined here .

Just over 30 minutes south off I-10, this refuge is a walk on the wild side that’s worth the drive. As the second-largest wilderness area in Arizona (666,640 total acres), 80% of refuge was designated as wilderness under the Arizona Desert Wilderness Act of 1990. This designation plays an important role in ensuring this desert landscape and its inhabitants are protected for future generations.

The refuge — named after the King of Arizona gold mine, which was active from 1897 to 1910 – is home to numerous amphibians and reptiles, a variety of birds and desert mammals – is a sanctuary for such activities as wildlife watching and photography, hiking, camping and limited hunting.

Archaeological research has found remnants, including petroglyphs, of people inhabiting the area as early as 9,000 B.C. And a hike to Palm Canyon, one of the park's most popular areas, reveals scattered clusters of California fan palms — the only native species of palm tree in Arizona — that can be traced back to the last periods of North American glaciation.

Please note: The Visitor Center, open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, is located more than 20 minutes south of the refuge itself. 

Admission: Free

Directions: I-10 passes within a few miles of the north edge of the refuge , and the northeast corner is accessed by Vicksburg Road (exit 45), but most approaches are from the west, via side tracks off US 95 between Quartzsite and Yuma. 

Contact: 928-783-7861

If you like the natural landscapes and hiking of this refuge, you'll love Phoenix's  South Mountain Park and Preserve , one of the largest municipal parks in the country.

6. el dorado hot springs, tonopah.

El Dorado Hot Springs check all the boxes of both a roadside attraction and a hidden gem. Take exit 94 off I-10 and within half a mile, you'll find yourself in the midst of desert oasis. This rustic operation is hidden behind overgrown palms, other flora, fences and weathered decor. But once inside, check-in is low key: You'll likely be greeted by any combination of the peacocks, ducks, chickens and quail, make your payment, get directions to the private soaking pool you reserved (yes, reservations are required) and from there you can pull your car right up to that area. 

There are five distinctly different pools to choose from, depending on whether your in the mood for the shady Duck Pond or the sunny Desert Vista. Each area is usually quiet, private, accommodates four to six people and offers chairs for lounging while your not soaking. Less ideal, but still an option, is the common area that hosts variety of smaller tubs in a secluded, but shared space (people are coming and going at their leisure and in whatever attire they deem appropriate for soaking).

Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

Admission:  Private soaking areas, $15 per person (ages 16 and under are free) Overnight camping, $50 per person ($100 minimum for overnight stay) from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. Bunkhouse rentals, $50 per person or $70 per pair from 3 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Address: 41225 Indian School Road, Tonopah

Contact: 623-386-5412

If you like a relaxing soak in a serene scene, you'll love these desert-inspired spa treatments .

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Lost In Phoenix

From City Lights to Arizona Skies – A Drive from Los Angeles to Phoenix with 8 Great Stops!

Carol Bastian

Updated on: December 28, 2023

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip between two iconic cities in the US? Join us as we explore the best of Los Angeles and Phoenix with a journey along the famous I-10 highway. On this thrilling route, you’ll experience stunning natural views, take advantage of unique attractions, and visit some must-see sites. From historic roadside landmarks to jaw-dropping national parks, here are some unmissable stops on your LA – Phoenix road trip adventure!

Table of Contents

Ready to hit the open road? Buckle up your seatbelts, and let’s get started! The first stop on our journey is:

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA

951-784-0300

https://www.missioninn.com/

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a National Historic Landmark member of the renowned Historic Hotels of America. It draws inspiration from Europe’s castles with a design masterminded by some of California’s most popular architects. If you find yourself in Riverside, stay overnight to get the full experience; or if you’re passing through, make sure to sightsee this hotel–you’ll feel like you’re really in Spain!

Cabazon Outlet

48750 Seminole Dr Ste 100, Cabazon, CA

951-922-3000

https://www.cabazonoutlets.com/

Hours: Daily 10 AM-8 PM, Thursdays Closed

If you’re looking for a fun shopping experience during your road trip from LA to Phoenix, then make sure to add Cabazon Outlet to your itinerary. Located halfway between Los Angeles and Phoenix off Interstate 10, this outlet mall has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for apparel items, accessories, or home décor, something here will surely spark your interest. Plus, since it’s an outlet center, you can find great discounts on top brands all year round.

After taking advantage of the amazing deals at Cabazon Outlet, don’t forget to treat yourself to some delicious food at one of the various eateries located within the mall. With its wide selection of stores and restaurants, Cabazon Outlet will surely provide a fun shopping experience that will make your LA to Phoenix road trip one to remember!

Cabazon Dinosaurs

50770 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA

951-272-8167

https://www.cabazondinosaurs.com/

Hours: Daily 10 AM-5 PM, Saturdays & Sundays till 8 PM

This fun roadside attraction is a must-see on your road trip from LA to Phoenix. Along the way, you can explore two larger-than-life dinosaurs – Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex – at Cabazon Dinosaurs in Cabazon, California, with no entrance fee. Inside their mouths are great gift shops full of exciting dinosaur memorabilia, such as tees, toys, and books. Enjoy this cool spot along the road!

Palm Springs Tram

1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA

760-325-1391

https://pstramway.com/

Hours: Daily 10 AM-8 PM, Saturdays & Sundays 8 AM-8 PM

Make sure to add the Palm Springs Tram to your list of must-see sites on your journey from LA to Phoenix. This popular attraction in Palm Springs, California, offers breathtaking views of the beautiful Coachella Valley and Mount San Jacinto in the San Bernardino National Forest. Hop on board one of the two rotating trams for a 10-minute ride up 8,516 feet into the mountains.

Once you reach the top, marvel at awe-inspiring panoramic views while having lunch or dinner at Peaks Restaurant before heading back down. Whether you visit during the day or night, you’ll be captivated by an unforgettable experience that can only be achieved with a ride on the world’s largest rotating tramcar! So take advantage of this incredible opportunity and make sure to add the Palm Springs Tram to your road trip from LA to Phoenix.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-see if you’re looking for a spectacular experience on your road trip from LA to Phoenix. This stunning desert park is home to the iconic Joshua tree, which earned its name from Mormon settlers who thought the twisted branches of these trees resembled the outstretched arms of Joshua leading them into the Promised Land.

You can explore over 800,000 acres of desert terrain filled with mountains and valleys, sprawling cholla cactus gardens, and incredible rock formations that are a haven for climbers. Take a hike to Keys View or Ryan Mountain for stunning views of the park. Or take advantage of the star gazing opportunities this park offers – you can easily spot constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way in the clear night sky. Don’t let Joshua Tree National Park pass you on your road trip – it’s an unforgettable experience worth all your time!

Although the national park is now open for everyone to enjoy, we recommend that visitors look at the alerts and conditions before coming. All the information can be found here .

Salton Sea State Park

100225 State Park Rd, Mecca, CA

760-393-3059

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=639

Hours: Open 24 hours

This picturesque park, situated on the shores of the Salton Sea, is a great place for a picnic or to take a walk along the beach and admire its bird-filled waters. In addition to its stunning views, visitors can enjoy fishing and camping in this tranquil setting. The nearby trails are perfect for biking , hiking , and horseback riding. After exploring this dreamy destination, you’ll be ready to continue your road trip with lasting memories.

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

9300 E. 28th Street Yuma, AZ

928-783-7861

https://www.fws.gov/refuge/kofa

To reach the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, you will have to take a detour, but it is worth your time. An impressive 600,000 acres of this refuge remain untouched by man. The region includes attractions such as the Castle Dome Mine Museum and the Kofa Mountains in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. The Castle Dome Mine Museum replicates an old mining town from 1878. You can camp anywhere in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, as long as it’s not too close to a waterhole.

While there, keep your eyes peeled for some of the rarest flora and fauna species – or enjoy the more common palm trees scattered across the landscape. You might even encounter desert bighorn sheep and other wildlife while camping here.

Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open to the public, we encourage visitors to take the precautions outlined  here .

Skyline Regional Park

2600 N Watson Rd, Buckeye, AZ

623-349-6350

https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/community/skyline-regional-park

Hours: Daily 5 AM-10 PM

Skyline Regional Park is the perfect spot to end your road trip from LA to Phoenix. Situated in Buckeye, AZ, this sprawling park offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape and a variety of activities for everyone. Skyline Regional Park also offers rock climbing areas and mountain biking trails for those looking for adventure.

No matter what activity you choose, make sure to take in the views of the Sonoran Desert . With 360-degree views, it provides a grand finale to your road trip from LA to Phoenix that you won’t soon forget!

Remember to check alerts and conditions before visiting. You can find the information on their  website .

To wrap up, a road trip from LA to Phoenix is the perfect way to explore all that this part of the country has to offer. From majestic national parks and wildlife refuges to picturesque beaches, you’ll find some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Make sure to check alerts and conditions before visiting each destination along the way. Have an incredible journey!

Happy travels! Enjoy your journey and all of these amazing sights!

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Phoenix To Tombstone: Getting There & 11 Best Road Trip Stops

Traveling In Focus - Couples Travel Around The USA & Canada

Phoenix To Tombstone: Getting There & 11 Best Road Trip Stops

Google Search Central Blog

Are you planning a trip from Phoenix to Tombstone? You’ve come to the right place as we cover the best road trip itinerary and other options to get between these two fantastic cities.

As seasoned travelers who have taken this route multiple times, we can assure you that there’s no shortage of adventures along the way.

And as a couple who has spent much time exploring Arizona, we are excited to share our recommendations with you.

So please sit back, relax, and prepare to embark on a journey through time as we make our way to one of the most historic and iconic towns in the American West.

Distance From Phoenix To Tombstone Az

The driving distance between Phoenix to Tombstone is 184 miles if you take the shortest and quickest route.

On the quickest route, the drive time is right around 3 hours.

We also have a Scottdale to Tombstone road trip . Some of the stops are different, so check it out for other options that would work here too.

Optional Driving Routes For Your Road Trip

We are providing two different routes for a Phoenix to Tombstone road trip.

Route 1 – I-10 East (3 Hrs)

This route is the most direct and will be the quickest.

Route 2 – US 60 E / I-10 E (3.5 Hrs)

This route is slightly longer, adding about 30 minutes to your drive time. But if you prefer some of the stops along this route, it is well worth the extra few minutes.

Once you get to Tombstone, there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy .

Best Road Trip Stops When Heading To Tombstone

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about all the fun road trip stops you can make along the way.

We suggest an overnight in Tombstone so you can take all day and enjoy some stops on the way down from Phoenix. The following day you can explore Tombstone before heading back to Phoenix in the evening or continuing your journey.

We provide a couple of hotel options below, but if you want to bring your furry bestie with you, we have a post dedicated to pet-friendly hotels in Tombstone !

Along Route 1 (I-10 East)

Let’s start with the quickest route.

1. Mystery Castle

Location: Phoenix, Az

Mystery Castle is a quirky and unusual tourist attraction in the foothills of South Mountain Park.

It’s a one-of-a-kind home built by Boyce Gulley in the 1930s as a gift to his daughter.

The castle is made of adobe, stone, and recycled materials such as automobile parts, telephone poles, and discarded materials that Gulley collected around the Southwest.

It has 18 rooms decorated with unique features such as stained glass windows, mosaics, and antiques.

One of the most interesting aspects of the Mystery Castle is the story behind its creation.

When his daughter was young, Gulley built elaborate sand castles for her. So when he was diagnosed with tuberculosis and thought he would die, he began to create an adult version of those sand castles. One that would provide his daughter with a magical and unique place to live.

After his death, the daughter Mary Lou did move in and lived there for the rest of her life.

Today, you can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its fascinating history and unique features.

Wondering if it is worth visiting Tombstone ? Check out why we think you should head to the Old West.

2. Museum Of Casa Grande Or Casa Grande Neon Sign Park

Location: Casa Grande, Az

The Museum of Casa Grande is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Casa Grande area.

Located in the heart of downtown Casa Grande, the museum is housed in a historic building that dates back to the early 20th century. The museum’s exhibits showcase the region’s rich history, from its ancient Hohokam roots to its recent ranching and mining industries.

With thousands of photographs and artifacts, you will journey through time as you see how the Casa Grande area has changed over the years.

The second option here is Casa Grande can be seen during the day, but you will get more out of it after dark.

Casa Grande Neon Sign Park is a public art installation and outdoor museum that features restored neon signs from businesses around the city.

There are about a dozen signs, most dating from the late 1940s to the mid-1950s. And they are turned on each evening from dusk until 11 pm.

It is a unique and quirky way to explore a bit of Casa Grande’s history.

If you are already in Tombstone, why not swing down to the mining town of Bisbee ? It is another cute town worth a quick visit.

Along Route 2 (US 60 E / I-10 E)

We have a couple of options if you prefer to take this alternative route.

3. Desert Botanical Garden

This 140-acre garden is a must-see for nature lovers and is a great way to start your road trip to Tombstone along this route.

The garden is home to a vast collection of desert plant life, including various cacti, succulents, and wildflowers. Visitors can explore the garden’s many paths and trails, which wind through a range of desert habitats and showcase the diversity of plant life in the region.

One of the highlights of the Desert Botanical Garden is the Sonoran Desert Loop Trail, which takes visitors on a journey through the iconic Sonoran Desert.

This trail is home to some of the garden’s most impressive specimens, including towering saguaro cacti and the spiky, otherworldly ocotillo plant.

Along the way, you will learn about the ecology and natural history of the Sonoran Desert and the importance of conserving this unique ecosystem.

The garden is a beautiful and serene place to spend a bit of time. Its tranquil atmosphere is the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of city life, and its many shaded benches offer plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the absolutely gorgeous desert scenery.

4. Lost Dutchman State Park

Location: Apache Junction, Az

Lost Dutchman State Park is a breathtakingly beautiful park in the Superstition Mountains.

The park is known for its desert scenery, which includes towering saguaro cacti, rugged canyons, and awe-inspiring rock formations.

Hiking is the most popular activity at Lost Dutchman State Park, as there are a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.

One of the most iconic hikes in the park is the Siphon Draw Trail, which winds into the Siphon Draw Canyon. For advanced hikers, you can head to the top of the towering Flatiron formation, though keep in mind the trail is not a maintained, designated trail past a certain point.

The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

For a shorter but equally scenic hike, you can try the Treasure Loop Trail, which travels through the park’s canyons and has incredible views of the nearby Superstition Mountains.

Tip: As you hike, keep an eye out for the Lost Dutchman’s gold mine, which is said to be hidden somewhere in the mountains.

5. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

Location: Coolidge, Az

Casa Grande Ruins National Park is home to some of North America ‘s most well-preserved ancient structures.

These structures date back to the Hohokam culture, which thrived in the area around Phoenix and Tucson for more than a thousand years (if not longer).

One of the most prominent structures in the park is the Casa Grande (or Big House), a four-story building made of caliche that is the largest known structure from the Hohokam still in existence.

The Casa Grande is estimated to have been built around 1350 and served as a gathering place for the Hohokam people until 1450, when it was abandoned.

In addition to the big house, there are other ruins on the park grounds to explore.

Beyond the impressive architecture, the park also offers fantastic views of the surrounding desert. Stroll along the park’s trails and marvel at the saguaro cacti and desert wildflowers that dot the landscape.

Along Both Routes, After Merging

These next stops can be done with either route because the routes merge along one path for the second half of the drive.

6. Picacho Peak State Park

Location: Picacho, Az

Located between Tucson and Phoenix, Picacho Peak State Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast.

The park is home to one of the state’s most iconic and recognizable landmarks, Picacho Peak, which rises 1,500 feet above the Sonoran Desert.

It boasts several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, ranging from easy to challenging, all with breathtaking views of the desert.

For the adrenaline junkies out there, the Hunter Trail to the summit of Picacho Peak is a must-do.

The trail is challenging, but the panoramic views from the top are worth the effort. Be prepared for steep inclines, narrow paths, and even a cable handrail to help you navigate the rocky terrain.

But if you’re looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the park, you can wander along the Nature Trail, which is accessible for all ages and abilities.

7. Saguaro National Park

Location: Tucson, Az

Named after the iconic saguaro cactus, which can reach heights of up to 60 feet and live for over 200 years, Saguaro National Park is divided into two districts, the East and the West.

Each district offers a visitor center, unique experiences like scenic drives and hikes, and various plant and animal life.

Hike among the towering cacti and stunning desert landscapes on trails ranging from short, easy walks to challenging all-day hikes.

A popular trail in the East district is the hike to the summit of Tanque Verde Peak, which offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the local desert terrain.

In the West district, you can explore the Signal Hill Trail, a short, easy hike that leads to ancient petroglyphs, or take on the challenging Hugh Norris Trail, which offers fantastic views of the Tucson valley.

If you prefer a more relaxed way to enjoy the park, you can instead drive the scenic loops available in either district of the park.

Along the way, you’ll see a variety of desert plants, including the majestic saguaro cactus. And if you are lucky, you might spot some of the wildlife in the park, from jackrabbits to javelina.

Don’t forget to stay for the sunset! The park offers some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see, with the sky exploding in pink, orange, and purple hues.

While this park isn’t as popular as another Arizona park, the Grand Canyon , we loved it here and would highly recommend you stop for a bit or plan another trip here.

8. Mt Lemmon Scenic Byway

Looking for a scenic drive that will take your breath away?

The Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a 27-mile drive through the beautiful Santa Catalina Mountains.

As you ascend the mountain, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding desert, with views that stretch for miles.

Along the drive, numerous pullouts and overlooks allow you to stop and take in the views, snap some photos, and even have a picnic.

One of the most popular stops is Windy Point Vista, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Keep a lookout for animals like mule deer and black bears as you ascend the mountain.

At the top of the drive, you’ll arrive at the charming mountain town of Summerhaven.

This quaint town has a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs before heading back down the mountain.

9. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a unique museum and outdoor living exhibit that showcases the beauty and diversity of the Sonoran Desert in southern Arizona.

It’s not your typical museum – it’s more like a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum all rolled into one.

Spread over 98 acres; it features more than 240 animal species and over 1,200 plant species, many of which are native to the Sonoran Desert.

The exhibits are arranged along a series of walking trails that travel through the desert landscape, with informative signs to educate you.

One of the museum’s highlights is the Desert Loop Trail, which takes you along a half-mile path to see javelinas, coyotes, and reptiles in their natural habitat.

Other exhibits include the stingray touch, experiences with raptors in flight, cactus gardens, and a cat canyon, where you can see bobcats and foxes.

If you enjoy birds, the hummingbird aviary or the birds of Sonoran Desert exhibits are perfect for you.

Overall, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a fascinating and educational experience that will delight visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a science enthusiast, or just looking for a unique museum experience, this museum is a highlight of this trip.

10. Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Location: Vail, Az

Colossal Cave Mountain Park is a 2,400-acre park where the main attraction is, of course, Colossal Cave.

The cave was formed millions of years ago and features breathtaking rock formations and unique geological features.

The cave is famous for its impressive limestone formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and large underground chambers. It is also one of the largest dry caves in North America (this means it is alive but no longer growing).

You can take a guided tour of the cave, which lasts approximately 45 minutes and has you descending six stories and through several different chambers and passages.

While the cave is the main draw, there is plenty to do above ground as well. The park is home to plenty of hiking trails to explore the desert and spot wildlife.

Tip: If you love horses, opt for the horseback ride through the park. It is a fun and different way to experience the trails.

11. OK Corral And Gunfight Show

Location: Tombstone, Az

You’ve arrived in Tombstone! While there is plenty to see in this small town, one thing you shouldn’t miss is a visit to the OK Corral.

The OK Corral and Gunfight Show is the most popular tourist attraction in town.

It is a recreation of the infamous gunfight that took place on October 26, 1881, between lawmen and outlaws in the Old West.

The gunfight show is performed a few times daily in an outdoor theater, with actors portraying legendary characters like Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the Clanton Gang.

Before or after the show, your ticket allows you to explore the museum area on a self-guided tour. The museum houses a collection of Old West artifacts, including guns, photos, and other memorabilia. You can also explore the old barn and carriages on display.

And when you are done at the OK Corral and looking at any other attractions you want to see, make sure you swing by the famous Big Nose Kate’s Saloon. Not only is the food and drink pretty good but there is nightly entertainment.

If you want to take this road trip, renting a car is the perfect way to explore the Arizona desert at your own pace.

From the rugged trails of Picacho Peak State Park to the scenic drives of Mt. Lemmon, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to see everything this area offers.

Plus, with so many spectacular stops along the way, you’ll want to have the flexibility to stay as long as you like at each destination.

When renting a car, we like Discover Cars because the company works with the most well-known car rental companies worldwide.

Book a Car with Discover Cars

Tours To Tombstone

If you don’t have a car or want to avoid renting one, there are a couple of Phoenix to Tombstone tours you can choose from instead.

Each of these day trips includes Tombstone plus another stop, which makes it a full day but allows you to experience other incredible places.

Tombstone & San Xavier Del Bac Mission

This day tour is a small group tour, just 13 max, and has you spending several hours in Tombstone. On the way to (or back from) Phoenix, you will see the incredible San Xavier Mission just south of Tucson. The mission was built in 1692 and is quite impressive.

Book Tombstone & San Xavier

Tombstone, Bisbee & Saguaro National Park

This small group tour is for just 12 guests. On this tour, you will spend slightly less time in Tombstone, but will also get to see Bisbee and Saguaro National Park. Bisbee is a small mining town just south of Tombstone. And Saguaro National Park is one of the best places to see the famous Saguaro cactus in the US.

Book Tombstone, Bisbee, & Saguaro

Other Options To Get To Tombstone

While we think the road trip is the way to go, here are your other options.

Unfortunately, Tombstone has no commercial airports, so flying directly from Phoenix is impossible.

You could fly from Phoenix to Tucson. Tucson is about 75 miles from Tombstone. From there, you can rent a car and take a scenic drive through the desert to reach Tombstone.

This option is viable but probably not worth it. The flight is about 1 hour, and you will have to arrive at the airport 1 hour before. So for the convenience of flying, you may save an hour, and that is if the flight isn’t delayed.

It will also be more expensive than driving.

You will have similar issues with a bus as you did with the flight. There are no direct buses that run between Phoenix and Tombstone.

Your option is to catch a bus from Phoenix to Tucson, but then you will still need to rent a car at that point to travel the remainder of the way.

While the bus option will take you about the same time as driving yourself (if you go direct), you won’t have the opportunity to stop anywhere along the route to enjoy what there is to do between these two locations.

Where To Stay In Tombstone

You have plenty of hotels to choose from in Tombstone. But these are our favorites.

Luxury – Tombstone Monument Guest Ranch

• Located in a beautiful, peaceful location just outside of town
• Keep the Wild West theme going into the evening
• Offers a variety of activities and amenities, such as archery, UTV tours, and nightly entertainment

Check Prices & Availability at Tombstone Monument Ranch

Mid-Range – Tombstone Bordello B&B

• Incredible homemade breakfast
• Unique experience as you stay in what was once a brothel in the heyday of Tombstone’s mining era
• Despite its age, this B&B offers comfortable and modern accommodations

Check Prices & Availability at Tombstone Bordello B&B

Budget – Larian Motel

• Plenty of historic charm as this motel has been around since the 1950s
• Perfect location as it is only a block from East Allen St, making it just steps away from city center and all the major attractions in town
• Might have a paranormal visitor during your stay, as the Larian Motel is one of the most haunted places in Tombstone

Check Prices & Availability at Larian Motel

FAQs: Phoenix To Tombstone

Let’s talk about some common questions.

Is There A Train From Phoenix To Tombstone

No, there is no direct train to Tombstone from Phoenix. However, other transportation options are available, such as renting a car, taking a bus, or booking a guided tour. Tombstone is located about 200 miles southeast of Phoenix, and driving is the most common mode of transportation to get there.

Is Tombstone Close To Tucson

Yes, Tombstone is relatively close to Tucson, which is about 75 miles northwest of Tombstone. The drive takes about an hour and a half, and guided tours are available from Tucson to Tombstone. Additionally, other nearby attractions in Tucson make it a great weekend getaway.

How Many Days Do You Need In Tombstone

The time needed in Tombstone largely depends on your interests and how much you want to explore the town and its attractions. Many visitors find that a day trip is enough time to see the highlights of Tombstone, while others may choose to stay for a few days to immerse themselves in the town’s history and culture fully.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To Tombstone Arizona

The best times to visit Tombstone are spring and fall, from March to May, and September to November. The weather is mild during these seasons, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 80s F. Visiting during these times avoids the scorching heat of the summer months.

Is Tombstone Arizona A Tourist Trap

While Tombstone is definitely a popular tourist destination, it is not necessarily a tourist trap. The town’s historic sites and attractions, such as the OK Corral, the Bird Cage Theatre, and Boot Hill Cemetery, offer visitors a unique glimpse into the Old West and the town’s history. However, most shops and businesses in town do cater to tourists.

To Finish – From Phoenix To Tombstone Az

Whether you fly, drive, or take one of the day tours, Tombstone should be on your list to visit. But we feel taking a road trip offers a unique and exciting adventure through the heart of Arizona’s Old West.

Along the way, you can explore historic towns, national parks, and natural wonders and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the region.

From the scenic drive along the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway to the fascinating exhibits at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, there is something for everyone on this road trip.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and memorable getaway, a Phoenix to Tombstone road trip will leave you with lasting memories of Arizona’s rugged and beautiful landscape.

The post Phoenix To Tombstone: Getting There & 11 Best Road Trip Stops appeared first on Traveling In Focus .

Here's what to know about weekend freeway closures through Phoenix metro

Several freeway closures and lane restrictions set throughout the Phoenix metro area will require commuters to pay special attention when they hit the road this weekend.

The Arizona Department of Transportation announced starting Friday night portions of the eastbound U.S. 60 and southbound Loop 101 will be closed until early Monday morning for construction work. The U.S. 60 closure is part of the I-10 Broadway Curve Project.

Major street and freeway ramp closures throughout the Valley can make detours a bit more difficult for drivers over the weekend and until the early morning hours on Monday.

Here's what drivers should know about the freeway restrictions.

Ready for a road trip? These are the 10 most scenic drives in the US

U.S. 60 set for weekend closure

Starting at 10 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Monday, the eastbound U.S. 60 is scheduled to be closed between Interstate 10 and Mill Avenue.

The eastbound lanes of the I-10, just before drivers arrive at the closures, are set to be narrowed to three lanes between 40th Street and Baseline Road, according to ADOT.

ADOT added that all the freeway ramps from I-10 to eastbound U.S. 60 will be closed, in addition to the eastbound I-10 on-ramp at 40th Street and the westbound I-10 on-ramp at Baseline Road.

As a detour, ADOT suggests drivers consider taking Loop 202 in Chandler to northbound Loop 101 to bypass the closure entirely.

ADOT said the closures were set for the ongoing work on the Broadway Curve Project which reached a halfway mark late last year.

Loop 101 to be closed in Tempe

Starting at 9 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday, the southbound Loop 101 is scheduled to be closed between U.S. 60 and Guadalupe Road.

Southbound Loop 101 on-ramp at University Drive and both U.S. 60 ramps are set to be closed as a result of the road work, according to ADOT.

ADOT suggested drivers exit ahead of the closures using the Price frontage roads and then use Dobson Road and McClintock Drive as alternative southbound routes.

32nd Street closed in both directions in Phoenix

Both directions of 32nd Street between the I-10 and Elwood Street near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport are scheduled to be closed for ramp construction from 8 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Monday.

The westbound I-10 on-ramp at 32nd Street is set to be closed during the same time.

ADOT suggested drivers use 24th or 40th streets as detours for the closures.

The agency added that those drivers trying to avoid the closure should note the westbound I-10 lanes between Broadway Road and 48th Street will be narrowed to two lanes from 7 p.m. Sunday to 4 a.m. Monday.

Northbound Loop 101 exit slated to close Monday

ADOT announced that Loop 101's next northbound off-ramp at Cactus Road is scheduled to be closed for 60 days starting Monday as part of a freeway widening project.

Detours include exiting northbound Loop 101 at Shea Boulevard and then using northbound 92nd Street or Hayden Road to Cactus Road.

The northbound Loop 101 on-ramp at Shea Boulevard also remains closed until mid-June.

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BYU Basketball update: Cougars bring two players back, take road trip to Phoenix

By darnell dickson - | apr 26, 2024.

Nothing brings a bunch of college students together better than a road trip.

New BYU coach Kevin Young flew his Cougar players to Phoenix on Friday for an NBA playoff game between the Suns (the team Young is still an assistant coach with) and Minnesota.

In his introductory news conference, Young said he wanted his players to watch film on what the Suns are currently running to get an idea of what they might see in practice.

They’re getting a closeup view in Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs.

Young also said retaining the current talent on the team was his No. 1 priority and the 2024-25 roster grew by two over the past 36 hours with recommitments from sophomore guards Dallin Hall and Richie Saunders.

Hall was getting looks from some pretty serious basketball programs (Duke, Creighton, Virginia, Clemson, among others) after entering the transfer portal a couple of weeks ago before ultimately deciding to return to Provo.

Hall’s social media post said, “Run It Back,” which is what the kids say when they are opting to stay with their original school.

Hall has started 51 games over the past two seasons. In BYU’s first year in the Big 12, Hall averaged 9.0 points and 5.1 assists per game at the point guard spot. Those numbers and his experience brought a lot of attention his way in the transfer portal, but he was convinced by Young to come back.

Saunders entered the portal after Mark Pope left to take the Kentucky job and made a trip to Lexington to check out opportunities with his former coach. Saunders let Cougar Nation know he was returning with a social media post that read simply, “I’m in.”

Saunders has played in 68 games, 65 of them off the bench, in two seasons. He averaged 9.6 points per game in 2023-24 and shot 36% from the 3-point line, but his real value is his energy and intensity on both ends of the court.

Both players were rated 4-star transfers by 24/7 Sports.

The BYU roster for next season is expected to include seven returning scholarship players (Hall, Saunders, Trey Stewart, Dawson Baker, Trevin Knell, Noah Waterman and Fousseyni Traore) along with incoming freshmen Isaac Davis and Brody Kozlowski.

Kozlowski was officially announced as a signee on Friday.

“We are thrilled to add Brody to our program,” Young said. “He is a high character and high achieving student-athlete on and off the court, evidenced by winning back-to-back Player of the Year honors in the state of Utah. He will bring size, versatility, shooting and toughness to our program. It’s a great time for BYU basketball and we are excited Brody and his family are joining with us.”

Young and his coaching staff are making contacts in the transfer portal, including guards Pop Isaacs (Texas Tech), Mike Sharavjamts (San Francisco) and Jalen Blackmon (Stetson) and forward TJ Power (Duke). Young also recently offered four-star guard JJ Mandiquit (Class of 2025).

Hudgins signs with BYU women’s hoops

Cougar coach Amber Whiting announced on Friday the addition of Marya Hudgins to the 2024-25 roster.

Hudgins comes to BYU after playing the first two years of her collegiate career at Santa Clara where she appeared in 63 games, starting 13 during her freshman and sophomore seasons.

“Marya [Hudgins] is a two-way, competitive player who wants to win,” said Whiting “She is a scoring threat on offense and a menace on the defensive end. Her length and athleticism will help us on the perimeter. She is a great perimeter shooter but can also take defenders off the bounce and has an incredibly high ceiling. She and I connected instantly and she will be a great fit for the team and culture we are building at BYU.”

The incoming junior scored 7.6 points per game on 39 percent shooting from the field and a 33.3 percent clip from three over two seasons with the Broncos. Hudgins also pulled down 5.1 rebounds, dished 0.9 assists and recorded nearly a steal per game.

Whiting’s roster for 2024-25 is coming together with seven returning players: Her daughter, sophomore Amari, along with seniors Emma Calvert, Heather Hamson, Kylie Krebs and Lauren Davenport, redshirt junior Arielle Mackey-Williams (who missed last season due to injury) and sophomore Marina Mata.

Incoming freshmen include Canadian star Delaney Gibb, Lone Peak’s Sarah Bartholomew and Idaho standouts Brinley Cannon and Kambree Barber.

In addition to Hudgins, the Cougars have also obtained a commitment from 6-foot-3 Buffalo transfer Hattie Ogden.

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BYU 1-on-1: Are the Cougar men’s hoops changes positive overall?

BYU baseball gets walk-off win vs. Utes

Without Damian Lillard, the Milwaukee Bucks hang tough with star-laden Suns, but lose 114-106, end road trip 1-4

PHOENIX – The Milwaukee Bucks opened their game against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night without all-star point guard Damian Lillard and center Brook Lopez and eight minutes into it they were without all-star forward Khris Middleton – but they kept the game close before ultimately surrendering in a 114-106 loss at the Footprint Center.

The Bucks concluded their five-game, nine-day road trip 1-4 and are 33-18 overall. The Suns improved to 30-21.

Milwaukee led 49-48 after the first half by forcing Suns stars Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal into isolation offensive sets, and funneling them into tough, contested shots over multiple defenders. While doing that, the Bucks limited Grayson Allen – one of the league’s top three-point shooters – to only one attempt.

And even when it appeared at times the Suns might break the game open in the third quarter – they led by nine at one point – the Bucks stayed solid defensively and eventually made enough shots to stay connected into the early minutes of the fourth quarter. Durant, Booker and Beal eventually won the tug of war in the final 12 minutes, as they created enough baskets to finally put some distance between them and the cold-shooting Bucks.

"It just shows how great our defense is becoming," Bucks guard Malik Beasley said. "They got a lot of great superstars on that team, so to be able to hold them to (114 points), to be able to hold them down the stretch like that is pretty good. Obviously on the offensive end we gotta be better but we're still figuring it out. We're still positive in the locker room. When you have an injury mid-game and Dame (out) before the game, our center out, everybody's adjusting, so we'll be alright."

But even after falling behind by 14 points at 107-93, the Bucks starters kept fighting and eventually cut it to 107-99 to keep the pressure on.

"The confidence is growing -- you can see it," Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said. "Made a couple mistakes, which is fine, but you can see the confidence, you can see the talking. At halftime they were talking about the little run and jumps we were going to in the second half. The defensive confidence is absolutely growing. That's a big thing for this team. If they can get that confidence, that takes us to a different level."

Phoenix did its part to make life difficult on Giannis Antetokounmpo, but Milwaukee’s strong defense and patient ball movement helped the Bucks manufacture enough points to threaten the star-laden Suns. Antetokounmpo faced crowds all night but still scored 34 points on 13 of 24 shooting. He was just 7-for-13 from the free throw line, however, including a 2-for-7 mark in the fourth quarter.

Antetokounmpo added 10 rebounds and six assists. Malik Beasley scored 22 points on 7 of 17 shooting while Jae Crowder added 10 off the bench.

"I think guys responded the right way," Antetokounmpo said of the Bucks after the injuries to three starters. "Played hard throughout the whole game. Obviously we're playing a very, very talented team, a team that can score the ball at any time they want. I think we did a good job just mucking up the game, playing hard, moving the ball, taking care of the ball. But again, if you don't have three of your starters, it just becomes hard. It's hard on everybody. But, can't make excuses. Anybody that's available to play are all NBA players, we've worked extremely hard to be here so we go out there and give our all for the team and sometimes we win and sometimes we don't."

Booker led the Suns with 32 points while Durant had 28 points and 10 rebounds. Beal also had a double-double with 25 points and 10 rebounds.

Khris Middleton exits game with injury

The Bucks lost Middleton to a left ankle sprain less than nine minutes into the game. He landed on Durant's foot on a long jump shot and was in obvious pain, but remained in the game for a few possessions before ultimately heading to the locker room. Before he got hurt, Middleton had six points and helped the Bucks take a 23-22 first quarter lead.

Pat Connaughton starts at point guard

With Lillard being ruled with an ankle sprain, it seemed natural that the Bucks would turn to Cameron Payne to start in that position in his return to Phoenix – but instead Rivers elected to start Pat Connaughton.

Connaughton had started 62 previous times in his six years with the Bucks, but running point was a bit different for the 6-foot-5 wing. He said he last played point guard in high school.

"I'm trying to build Pat's confidence back," Rivers said. "I don't know if he's lost it or not but I just think he can help us and I'm trying to actually give him more minutes. In a normal thing I would probably play one of the other guys but I'm trying to get Pat going. I think he's important for us later as well."

With Antetokounmpo and Middleton available, Connaughton wasn’t going to be the primary ball handler on every offensive setup but he still was tasked with organizing the team at times.

In 32 minutes of action in his first start of the season, Connaughton scored 12 points on 4-of-6 shooting. He also had five assists and five rebounds.

"It's great to hear that from Doc. I didn't know him well before this but I had a good enough relationship with him and since he's been here growing the relationship with him and trying to learn about the philosophy he's trying to instill both offensively and defensively. I think for me, it's been one of those years to date where it's just hey, I want to make sure guys on the team are figuring out how they fit in and want to win games and try to impact winning and I think sometimes that has a rollercoaster of statistical games for me, if you will. At the end of the day I'm here to try to help win games and I'm here to try to help win games in the long run, right? That means now but it also means in the playoffs and it also means bringing that winning experience with me that I've had kind of my whole career.

"Something that gotta keep working on, continuing to find ways to improve, keep continuing to find ways to do extra, do more. That's kind of been the m.o. of me my entire career and it was nice tonight to be out there."

Payne came off the bench and played 23 minutes, his most action since Nov. 11. The veteran scored 11 points and had three assists to go with two steals. He also forced Booker into a backcourt violation.

Five numbers

1-4 Bucks record after concluding their season-long five-game, nine-day road trip on Tuesday.

8 Person rotation for the Bucks after Middleton exited with his injury.

11.1% First half three-point shooting for the Suns (1-for-9). Their ineffectiveness from deep allowed the Bucks to take a 49-48 lead at the break despite shooting 28% on their own from behind the three-point line.

12 Games this season Bucks guard Malik Beasley has made at least 5 three-pointers, tying Ray Allen’s club record set in 2000-01. Beasley went 6-for-14 from behind the three-point line and matched Allen in his 49 th game of the season. He will participate in the three-point contest during NBA all-star weekend on Feb. 17.

25 Times when an opposing guard has scored at least 30 points on the Bucks this season.

Damian Lillard ruled out for Bucks with ankle injury

Lillard began Tuesday as questionable to play with a left ankle sprain, as he was clearly limping heading into the fourth quarter against the Jazz on Sunday. But throughout that game, in which Lillard played 38 minutes, Rivers said he thought about pulling the all-star point guard at various points of the game.

So after shootaround in Phoenix, Rivers said the team decided it would be best for Lillard to rest his ankle. The Bucks don't play again until Thursday night at Fiserv Forum.

"He wanted to go," Rivers said pregame. "I just, to me, why? His foot's sore. It's game (50). If it was a playoff game he would play. With this group, I told you, my feeling is we want to get to the playoffs, we want to get right first as a team, which we have work to do. And we gotta be healthy."

This is just the fourth game Lillard has missed this season and his first since a Jan. 8 loss to Utah. The Bucks also lost games against Indiana (Nov. 9) and Orlando (Nov. 11) without him.

In his 47 games, Lillard is averaging 24.9 points per game on 42.5% shooting, including a 34.7% clip from behind the three-point line. He's also handing out 6.8 assists per game.

Rivers navigating a unique Bucks trade deadline

As his players took to the Footprint Center court for their usual pregame warmups Tuesday evening, Doc Rivers knew some of them might be dealing with the impending trade deadline in their own way. Rivers has played and coached through over three decades of trade deadlines, but his issue is that being less than two weeks into the job he wasn't sure how guys were being affected by it in the run up to the 2 p.m. deadline on Thursday.

"Obviously with the deadline coming up, I hate the deadline as a coach because some players are nervous and some players aren't," he said. "And you gotta try to figure out, because everyone -- it's like when you come in a huddle and you ask a player which way you wanna go, 100% are going to say I can go either way. And we all know in this room half of them can't go but one way, left or right, but they're always going to say either way. It's the same thing with that. I don't know the guys, and so I'm trying to figure out who is it affecting? And, they all say 'I'm good,' but you know that's not true.

"It's a tough stretch. The whole league goes through it. I'm very happy the day after, 'cause now you know who you have."