places to visit between phoenix and grand canyon

8 Best Stops on the Phoenix to Grand Canyon Drive

Last Updated on November 12, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Many routes through Arizona will include a Phoenix to Grand Canyon drive and there are few better routes to take in this southwestern state than from the capital city up to one of the most spectacular natural monuments in the entire world.

And though the Grand Canyon is reachable in about four hours direct from Phoenix and doable as a (very long!) day trip , there is so much to see in between these two places that it is well worth making a proper road trip of it.

It will give you the time to appreciate just how diverse and beautiful the state is and take you by some of the highlights (and hidden gems!) that lie between the capital and its iconic canyon.

Table of Contents

Planning a Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Before I get into all of the amazing places to see on this road trip, we need to discuss some logistical planning. And first on that list is one of the most necessary — how you’re going to do this drive!

If you don’t have your own car to do this road trip, it is highly likely that you’re going to need to rent one. There isn’t a lot of public transit to rely on in Arizona and you’re going to find it necessary to have your own car to make all of the stops in this article.

If you need to rent a car for your road trip to the Grand Canyon, then we suggest using Rentalcars.com to find deals. This platform aggregates prices across major car hire companies to ensure that you get a great deal on your car rental.

If you’re interested in taking a campervan or a motorhome on this drive, then make sure to check out Outdoorsy for a wealth of RV rental options — you’re sure to find something that suits your needs and budget!

It is also worth mentioning that the vast majority of this drive is along well-established highway (the Interstate 17) that needs no particular driving skills to navigate.

It is all fairly populated, so you don’t need to plan too far in advance in regards to fuel stations, etc. There are very few things that you need to be overly aware of when doing this drive — so just buckle up and enjoy!

Once you get to the canyon, you can plan to drive around the stops or you could also opt to use the shuttle service offered by the national park. Or, for an unforgettable view of the Grand Canyon, consider booking a helicopter tour .

Distance from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

The distance on the drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon South Rim and Grand Canyon Village is 229 miles (369 kilometres) and the drive time is approximately 4 hours by car if going non-stop without traffic. However, you will be missing a LOT of what the state has to offer along the way.

So while the drive time is only about four hours, if you make all of the stops on this list, it can actually take about 7-9 hours.

Looking for other road trips from Phoenix? Check out our Phoenix to Denver drive , Phoenix to Las Vegas drive & Phoenix to Albuquerque drive articles!

That is why we recommend doing the drive over a few days in order to really get the most out of all of the things to see along the way.

Plan to spend one day driving up to Sedona from Phoenix and stopping at all of the places to see along the way, spend a couple of days in Sedona , and then continue on to Flagstaff or the Grand Canyon itself after that. You can also make some of the stops on the way back down to Phoenix if you’re not continuing on elsewhere after visiting the Canyon.

Stops Between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon

All the stops below are listed in order of proximity to Arizona’s capital, however, they are not all located on the same highway and may require significant detours depending. Make sure to map out your route ahead of time if you would like to visit all of these stops — it should likely be spread out over the course of a few days!

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

The first stop on this list is located just past the town of Payson, Arizona, about an hour’s drive from Phoenix along the AZ-87 highway — the Tonto Natural Bridge.

Arizona is packed to the brim with incredible natural sites and beautiful scenery and you’re sure to be awestruck by the cascades of saguaro cacti as you drive north on the highway. However, one of the most underrated natural sites in the entire state is undoubtedly the Tonto Natural Bridge.

The incredible site is believed to be the world’s largest natural travertine bridge and stands at a whopping 56 metres (184 feet) at its highest point. Depending on the weather, your itinerary and the season, there are also a number of hiking trails that can take you to the foot of the bridge and around it, all very well maintained.

If you’re trying to stick to a tight schedule on your drive, then you can also admire the bridge from a number of different viewpoints just off the parking lot — meaning that you can get a myriad of different perspectives of this incredible natural site while not sacrificing accessibility.

So if you’re looking for an interesting and a little off-the-beaten-path place to visit on a road trip to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, then you can’t go wrong with the Tonto Natural Bridge.

Skirting back west onto the I-17 on your route up to Grand Canyon National Park, your next stop on this road trip should be in the experimental town of Arcosanti.

Located about 110 kilometres north of Phoenix (about 70 miles) and slightly southeast of the city of Prescott, this is an excellent place to visit if you’re interested in local art, handicrafts and interesting ways of life.

Arcosanti is most famous for the unique bronze bells that are cast here, however, there is a lot else that is interesting about the concept of this town.

Originally founded in 1970 by famous Italian-American architect Paolo Soleri, Arcosanti was meant to be a settlement that was founded on the concept of arcology — a concept developed by Soleri that combined ecology with architecture.

The majority of the funding of Arcosanti comes directly from the sales of the hand-cast bronze bells that are made there and also from donations from visitors. You can take a tour of the interesting commune while visiting Arcosanti and purchase one of these unique bells for yourself — the perfect souvenir to bring home from your Arizona road trip!

Located about a 45-minute drive northeast of Arcosanti lies the lovely city of Prescott, Arizona. If you’re interested in just how diverse ecologically the state of Arizona is, you will be astounded at how different the feel of Prescott is from the way Phoenix is just 100 miles to the south.

Prescott is famed for its “Wild West” history and has a lovely, walkable downtown and historic area that is very much worth exploring.

There are countless house museums to explore where you can learn about the history of this city and you can even check out the bars on the iconic Whisky Row. This area has a number of saloons that date back to the Gold Rush era in the mid-19th century and it is super interesting.

The Palace Restaurant and Saloon on Whisky Row is actually known to have been a spot frequented by the infamous lawmen Doc Holliday, Wyatt Earp and his brother, Virgil, the latter of whom was actually the constable of Prescott at one time. Having been opened in 1877, the saloon is considered to be the longest-operating business in the state of Arizona.

Prescott has plenty to offer visitors, but do make sure to pronounce the town correctly — it is pronounced Press-KITT rather than the more logical Press-KOTT.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Skirting back west onto the I-17 as you make your way north to the Grand Canyon, the next stop on this list is another testament to the vast and deep history that lies within Arizona.

Montezuma Castle National Monument, in particular, harkens back to pre-Columbian times and will have anyone second-guessing themselves when it is said that there is no “history” in the United States.

Montezuma Castle is a collection of cave dwellings that are carved into a cliff just outside the town of Camp Verde in central Arizona. Dating back to the 12th century CE, they were originally inhabited by the Sinagua people — a native tribe that was related to the Hohokam.

When the dwellings were first discovered by Europeans in the mid-19th century, it was (wrongly) assumed that they were inhabited by the Aztec and thus named after the famous Aztec king, Montezuma, and the name has since stuck.

This site is now a national monument and it is truly an interesting place to visit. Countless Native American tribes can trace their roots back to the Sinagua people who once lived here and Montezuma Castle serves as a testament to just how much there was in Arizona long before Europeans came.

Situated between Prescott and Flagstaff, the next stop is the historic copper mining town of Jerome. Located at the top of Cleopatra Hill in the Verde Valley, Jerome makes for an excellent stop if you’re driving from the Grand Canyon to Phoenix (or vice versa!), as it offers just another slice and insight into Arizona’s complex and multifaceted history.

Once home to the largest copper mine in the state (and Arizona came upon early wealth as being a major resource for copper), Jerome is known as the “wickedest town in the west” and was, at one point, the fourth-largest city in Arizona with a population of over 15,000 people.

Today, Jerome’s population doesn’t ever top 500 people, however, and the major mine ceased operations in the 1950s. The town is now a tourist hub, welcoming in tens of thousands of visitors every year and a haven for local artists.

So if you’re interested in learning about some of Arizona’s history and are also keen to support local artisans, then Jerome makes for an excellent stop on a Grand Canyon to Phoenix road trip!

One of the most popular places to visit in the entirety of Arizona and one of my personal favourite cities in the state, there is no road trip to the Grand Canyon that would be complete without making a stop in the gorgeous city of Sedona.

Located in Northern Arizona about an hour south of Flagstaff, Sedona is famed for its iconic red rocks and New Age vibes.

Known for being home to a number of psychic vortexes, Sedona is a wonderful haven for New Age followers and outdoor lovers alike. There are countless hikes for all activity levels, beautiful scenery to take in, and a lovely city centre to explore.

There are great restaurants, local artisans, cool shops and so much more on offer in Sedona that it’s worth spending a day or two here to really get the most out of the city.

Take the time to go for one of Sedona’s iconic hikes, including to the Devil’s Bridge or Oak Creek Canyon, or, just to take in one of its vortexes without too much effort, catch the sunset at the airport viewpoint. Browse local shops at the Tlaquepaque Village or even get your fortune told at one of the countless psychics that call the city home.

You can also consider going on a jeep tour such as this one to Mogollon Rim or this jeep tour to several vortexes if you prefer not to hike.

Sedona is a wonderful place to visit and a must-see on any trip to Arizona.

The final city on the way to the Grand Canyon and a great place to spend the night if you want to save some cash instead of staying closer to the National Park is Flagstaff — Arizona’s Alpine city. While it is possible to stay in Sedona over Flagstaff when visiting the Grand Canyon, it does involve a longer drive and you don’t get to experience to this cool town.

Known for being a summer haven for Phoenicians escaping the heat, you will be forgiven for assuming the climate here wouldn’t even exist in Arizona — if you visit in the winter, expect there to be several feet of snow!

Flagstaff is a bustling college town with a lot of cool things to offer visitors and has a distinct youthful energy that you’re sure to enjoy.

Home to Northern Arizona University, there is a young population here and a lot of cool things to see and do because of it. It is also a stop on the historic Route 66, meaning there are a lot of nostalgia shops and things to explore here, as well.

The town is also home to its own ski resort, meaning that it’s a great place to hit the slopes if you happen to visit in the winter months. It is also a great jumping-off point for exploring the Grand Canyon as accommodation is typically less expensive than it is closer to the rim and it is located only about an hour’s drive south of the Park.

Sunset Crater National Monument

And finally on this list of places to visit between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon road trip Sunset Crater National Monument, a beautiful dormant cinder cone volcano that lies just outside of the Flagstaff city limits.

While you’re sure to get your fill of amazing natural scenery at the Grand Canyon, you really would be remiss if you didn’t take the time to detour slightly and explore this area.

Sunset Crater is another of the “hidden gems” in Arizona that, like the Tonto Natural Bridge, often gets overlooked in lieu of the state’s more iconic natural sites.

Take the time to explore the visitor’s centre to get to know a bit more about the history of this cinder cone and make sure to go on the short hike around the perimeter of the volcano. Keep in mind that due to conservation efforts, it is not possible to hike to the summit of the volcano.

From here, you can make your way up to Williams (where you can catch the Grand Canyon Railway) and then finally arrive at the Grand Canyon itself!

Where to Stay Between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon

If you want to find the perfect place to stay while driving between these two destinations, Sedona and Flagstaff are the most obvious choices.

You can make a few of the stops on the way to Sedona, spend a day or two in the city itself, before heading on to Flagstaff and up to the Canyon.

Where to Stay in Sedona

Sedona Village Lodge — A great choice if you’re looking for an affordable option in expensive Sedona, this hotel is centrally located and situated within easy reach of many hiking trails. They have a range of basic, yet clean and comfortable rooms available, and they come very highly rated.

Sky Ranch Lodge — If you’re looking for a more luxe option in the red rocks of Sedona, then this is a great choice for you. Centrally located in the midst of all of the action in Sedona, they have a range of lovely rooms available and a great bar and restaurant on site.

A Sunset Chateau — If you are looking for a luxury escape, then this bed & breakfast is the ideal place to stay in Sedona. Located close to hiking trails and the shops and restaurants of the city centre, they have a number of great amenities and a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Private Vacation Rental – This is a great option in Sedona or really anywhere in Arizona if you’re after some privacy and self-catering facilities. There are a number of places to choose from such as this lovely private cottage near all the hiking trails.

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

Where to Stay in Flagstaff

Hotel Elev8 — Perfect for mid-range travellers looking for a comfortable place to stay. They have a great location close to the downtown area, a range of clean and comfortable rooms on offer, and a great swimming pool and sauna on site!

Little America Hotel — If your budget allows for a high-end option, then this hotel is a great option. They have a swimming pool, a delicious restaurant and a number of great, spacious rooms to choose from.

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

There are so many incredible things to see and do while driving from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon that it is impossible to fit them all in. However, make sure that you take the time to explore some of the splendours that lie in northern Arizona as you drive from the capital city to the state’s most iconic natural site.

Are you planning a road trip to the Grand Canyon? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Planning a Grand Canyon Day Trip from Sedona or Phoenix

10 Best Stops on the Phoenix to Tucson Drive

10 Best Stops on a Zion to Grand Canyon Road Trip

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

Great article to help plan our family vacation in early April. Any advice on what clothes to pack? Given the change in weather from Phoenix to Flagstaff, etc. I assume layers are the best bet? Thank you!

You’re correct that layers are best, Jen! Keep in mind that it can still be pretty cold in Northern AZ in early April but it will be gorgeous in the Phoenix area – it’s a great time to visit.

Thank you for all the information. This is very helpful.

Cheer! Glad you found this helpful 🙂

great ideas, thanks! Anything good to see in January?

We used this article, thank you!! We thought it would be too short but we actually ran out of time. We skipped Tonto since it was a little bit out of the way. We went to Arcosanti but that was underwhelming. We visited Montezuma’s castle and Tuzigoot; loved the drive through Cornville; then we ended up lingering and shopping in Cottonwood. By the time we got to Jerome it was after 4:00 and the national park was closed. Still a lovely drive up the hill though!! We went to the store that sells copper items; the owner told us about the copper museum which closes at 5. Wish we’d had time to go there! We still got to see the rocks of Sedona while we ate dinner, then wound through the gorgeous Oak Creek pass. Didn’t make it to our hotel near Grand Canyon until after 8pm. Perfect day; will just have to come back sometime to see all the things we missed!

So glad this article helped you plan a great trip, Laurel! Hope you’re able to get back to AZ and see all of the things you missed in the future 🙂

Hi – any advice – we had hoped to stay in Sedona next weekend – May 21-23 as we travel from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon , but the rates are outrageous, given a festival going on then. Will the town be too crowded to visit? Is there somewhere an hour outside in either direction which would be affordable? Thanks!

Hi Linda, I’m not sure what festival is going on but rates in Sedona can often be incredibly expensive, unfortunately. I’d recommend spending the night in Flagstaff instead. It’s only about 45 minutes north and it can be a lot more affordable.

Thanks Maggie. We decided to explore a few of your must sees, instead of taking the straight road from Phoenix to Grand Canyon. The Natural Bridge was quite a sight and Sedona and Red Rocks SP were wonderful. There’s so much to see in the US but not enough time. We were able to see more! Thanks again! Karen

Hi Karen! Thanks for your kind words and I’m so happy that you enjoyed some of these stops! Sounds like you had a great trip — it really is amazing all of the diversity that’s in the US – it astounds me every time.

Very helpful article and was happy to find the recommendation of the Sedona Village Lodge. Booked one night there during our Arizona vacation in September.

Happy you found this helpful, Kim! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Thank you! Great ideas as we plan our visit this October.

Glad you found it helpful, Margot! October is a fantastic time to visit AZ — hope you have a fantastic time 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Absolute Best Stops along the Phoenix to Grand Canyon Drive

Phoenix to the grand canyon- day trip itinerary and best things to do when driving from phoenix to grand canyon 2020.

Phoenix to Grand Canyon: Looking for the best stops along the Phoenix to Grand Canyon drive? Wanting to take a day trip to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix?  Visiting the Grand Canyon from Phoenix is one of the best day trips from Phoenix .

Table of Contents

In this post, you will find out helpful information including how long it takes to travel to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, where to stop along the way, and all the best viewpoints and things to do once you get to the Grand Canyon.

Plus I’ve even added in where to stay near the Grand Canyon if you decide to stay for the night.

So let’s get started with directions to the Grand Canyon and all the practical information you need.

If you are looking for more information on the Grand Canyon , I have over 50 articles to help you plan your trip – even a Grand Canyon Packing List !

Thank you for supporting this website written by an American. This post may contain affiliate links. This means I earn a small commission on these links at no extra cost to you.

How to get from Phoenix, Arizona to Grand Canyon

There are five ways to get from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: either by car, plane, train, bus, or helicopter.

One of the best ways to get to the Grand Canyon is to take a road trip!

The drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is easy and I recommend renting a car from Discover Cars . It’s who I use on my road trips. If you are taking a road trip remember to reserve a car in advance using  Discover Cars  .

But for most people who enjoy long drives and stopovers, they prefer taking it by car. But either way, you would still have a great time in the South Rim. 

1.  How far is the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, Arizona?

The approximate driving time from Phoenix to Grand Canyon is 3.5 hours, and that would depend on how you want to kick-off your adventure. If you have a lot of stop-overs, it would take you about 4 hours. 

2.  Directions Phoenix to Grand Canyon

There are three routes from Phoenix to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, but each route takes the same amount of driving time. 

Via Williams (230 miles): 

– Head north on Interstate 17 towards Flagstaff

– Then merge onto I-40 West towards Williams 

– At State Route 64 (Exit 164), go north towards the tiny town of Tusayan.

Via Flagstaff (230 miles):

– Take I-17 north to Flagstaff 

– Continue straight through town to the turnoff for U.S. 180. 

– Turn left on U.S. 180 and drive northwest to Valle 

– Then turn right and drive north on SR 64 to the park entrance. 

Via Cameron (230 miles):

– Take I-17 north to Flagstaff

– Go east on I-40

– Get off at exit 201 and go north on U.S. 89 to Cameron.

– At the roundabout, head west on SR 64 to the park’s eastern entrance at Desert View. 

3.  Where to stop along the way when visiting the Grand Canyon from Phoenix

Montezuma castle – 94 miles from phoenix.

Montezuma is one of the well-preserved ancient dwellings in Arizona, and it is believed to be the most spectacular indian ruins in Arizona . It is a 5-story structure built into a recess in a white limestone cliff about 70 feet above the ground and it consists of 20 rooms.

It is easy to locate the Montezuma Castle because there is a well-maintained access road and upon entering the area, you will find a wheel-chair accessible walking path leading from the parking lot. There is an entrance fee of $5.00 per person and you can also find a gift shop and interpretive center inside.

Although visitors are not allowed anymore up inside the actual ruins, you can still do other things such as walk the loop trail and take a lot of good and worthy shots around the site. 

Sedona – 116 miles from Phoenix

The city of Sedona is considered one of Arizona’s premier tourism, recreation, art centers, and a lot more. It has the natural beauty of its red rock formation that will really mesmerize your eyes.

And aside from that, Sedona has become a well-known haven for spiritual wellness because of its numerous energy vortexes that many believe surround the region.

Check out my post on How to Enjoy the Drive From Phoenix to Sedona (and What to Do Once You Get There)

If you are into outdoor adventures, Sedona is also perfect for you. It has some of the most amazing hiking trails that you can explore in the world.

The trail and hiking adventures are limitless in Sedona, plus not to mention the astonishing views that will give vitamins to your eyes. 

Hiking in Sedona is one of the most popular activities and there are even some easy hikes in Sedona if you want to take it easy. 

And for history junkies, Sedona is a paradise for people who are into arts and history. It showcases more than 500 artists and 80 unique shops and galleries that are waiting for you to explore.

They also have specialty and souvenir items and artwork such as Kachina dolls, hand-made pottery, sculptures, Native American jewelry, and a lot more. 

Check out my post on the Best Things to do in Sedona if you would like to stop off here.

Flagstaff – 144 miles from Phoenix

No matter what time of the year you visit, you will never run out of wonderful things to do in Flagstaff. It is brimming with cultural diversity, history, recreational, and scientific opportunities.

Its stunning nature makes it a paradise for any outdoor activities such as running, hiking, biking, climbing, camping, and even skiing. 

Flagstaff is also a foodie paradise that boasts a sophisticated restaurant scene and represents ethnic cuisines from around the world. You can dine at any of the more than 200 restaurants that they have such as Criollo Latin Kitchen for Latin-inspired meals, or Diablo Burger whose beef comes from the nearby Diablo Trust Ranch. 

You can also stay in Flagstaff either in a pet friendly hotel in Flagstaff or one of the best hotels in Flagstaff . If you would like to stop off here check out my post on the Best Things to do in Flagstaff .

Williams – on Route 66 from Phoenix

Williams, a small town nestled in Arizona’s pine nation, has a wealth of things to see and do. History buffs can visit more than six blocks of historic buildings and memorabilia-filled shops.

Tourists to Arizona will find yet another reason to fall in love with the state. Williams is known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon is a charming rest stop for world travelers.

Williams is a great little place to stop off and get something to eat. From pie, Thai, or steak you will find lots of choices for places to eat included fast food in Williams.

Best Things to do in the Grand Canyon on your Grand Canyon day trip from Phoenix:

Desert view point and the watchtower.

Desert View is a small settlement on the South Rim just 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. If you are visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time, this is a great place to be if you want the first views of the Grand Canyon. 

One of the attractions inside the Desert View includes the finest view of the Colorado River and canyon geology, park ranger programs and cultural demonstration, and Tusayan Museum that features the story of American Indians of the region. 

And one of the facilities in Desert View that guests can take advantage of is the Desert View Watchtower. Since its completion in 1932, the watchtower was a combination of a tourist attraction, curio shop, and museum of Hopi culture and symbolism.

Each story of the watchtower has several windows that allow visitors to gain sight of the Canyon and the surrounding areas. 

The Main Visitor Center

The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is a great starting point to begin your journey to the Grand Canyon National Park. It is situated at the South Rim and it offers an interesting and educational overview of Arizona’s famous landmarks.

You will be guided by their knowledgeable local representatives, as well as their helpful staff who will provide you with information about hotels and restaurants near Grand Canyon. 

Wiki Commons  Grand Canyon National Park

You can also stop by at Grand Canyon Conservancy’s Park Store, just across the plaza from the Visitor Center. It showcases a wide variety of books, maps, DVDs, and gifts to make your trip to the Grand Canyon more memorable. 

Walk the Trail of Time

The trail of time is an interpretative walking timeline trail that is focused on showcasing Grand Canyon vistas and rocks so that visitors can explore and understand the vastness of geologic time, as well as the stories captured by Grand Canyon rock layers and landscapes.

The objective of the Trail of Time is for visitors to have a grasp of the vast geologic history of the Grand Canyon by utilizing a section of the existing South Rim trail. 

The trail stretches from Yavapai Observation Station to Verkamps’s Visitor Center. And as you stroll down the trail, you will encounter 24×36 inch information panels that document important events such as the Cambrian explosion, the uplift of the Colorado Plateau, and other topics. 

Take a Shuttle Bus to Viewpoints

The shuttle buses at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon are one of the newest services offered in the area. Currently, there are five routes covered by the Grand Canyon shuttle bus service. The buses run every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the season. And as a tip, make sure to check the maps at each bus stop to avoid confusion and getting lost. 

Check out my post on the Best Grand Canyon Viewpoints along the South Rim

One of the routes available is the Orange Route/Kaibab Rim Route that is about 50 minutes land and it provides transportation between Grand Canyon Visitor Center and the scenic viewpoints: 

Yaki Point is the easternmost stop on the Orange or Kaibab Trail Route that also provides Pipe Creek Vista and the Canyon View Information Plaza at Mather Point. The views at Yaki Point are incomparably different to the popular points.

The westward vista surrounds the end of the Bright Angel Trail and a fine view of the South Kaibab Trail as it descends along Cedar Ridge and O’Neille Butte. 

Mather Point

A vast majority of visitors to the South Rim first gaze over the Grand Canyon at Mather Point because due to the fact that it is the closest to the entrance station and it is just a short walk from the visitor center. Also, the viewing area here is quite massive and it offers terrific sunset vistas. 

Yavapai Point

Yavapai is just an easy walk west from Mather Point and it has quite excellent views of the Grand Canyon. And just like Mather Point, it also has a Yavapai Observation Station that sells books and displays information about the history of the Grand Canyon. However, the parking area is very limited and vehicles over 22 feet are not allowed. 

Nevertheless, Yavapai Point gives the best panoramic views of the three points of the south rim and it is closest to the Colorado River. 

Rim Trail – Visitors Centre to Village

The Rim Trail offers hikers the chance to see the Main Amphitheater from above and its extends from Fairyland Point to Bryce Point. It has a one-way distance of 5.5 miles and has several steep elevation changes. 

Head to Tusayan

The Imax Theater at Tusayan features a giant six-story movies screen and over 12,000 watts of digital surround sound. It lets you experience the history of the Grand Canyon while sitting comfortably in the theater. 

The Yavapai Museum of Geology features a bookstore and museum shop where you can buy memorabilia to make your trip to the Grand Canyon truly unforgettable. 

Where to stay near the Grand Canyon

If you can’t make it back from the Grand Canyon to Phoenix and you are wondering where to stay in the Grand Canyon , read my post on the 5 closest cities to the Grand Canyon and where to stay. This is helpful if you are heading onto other locations.

Tusayan is the nearest city to the Grand Canyon.  Tusayan is about 5 miles from the South Entrance of the Grand Canyon.

You will find shops and restaurants there, the Grand Canyon IMAX, and the Grand Canyon Airport is about one mile south of town.

Canyon Plaza Premier Studio and Apartments

Views of the valleys and forest areas are featured in select Arizona apartments. Grand Canyon South Rim Entrance is 5 minutes drive.

Studios feature a kitchenette and apartments offer a fully equipped kitchen at Canyon Plaza Premier Studio and Apartments. A balcony is provided in each unit.

JJK’s Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Studio and Apartments Canyon Plaza Premier.

Check out Rates on Booking

Arizona Luxury Expeditions – Grand Canyon

Arizona Luxury Expeditions has tents where you can glamp overnight.  This is part of their all inclusive and customized to include 12’x12′ Expedition Tents, all meals freshly prepared daily, and a professional Tour Guide for your stay with us.

The weather at the Grand Canyon during Dec. averages 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit daytime and 20’s degree at nighttime. They provide heaters for inside your sleeping and private dining tents with plenty of warm heavy wool blankets. 

Most guests enjoy this time of the year in the Grand Canyon because of fewer crowds of people and the winter landscape that is incredible to experience.

Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn

Located right next to the Holiday Inn Express, the Best Western has 250 rooms.  The Best Western has an indoor heated pool, a hot tub, sauna, and fitness center.

There are also two restaurants in the hotel – Coronado Room and the Canyon Room.  If you are looking for fast food you can find the McDonalds and Pizza Hut are close.

Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon

The Holiday Inn Express is located just two miles from the South Entrance of the Grand Canyon.  The Holiday Inn Express has 164 rooms and is located centrally in Tusayan which means you can walk to the restaurants and shops.

The Holiday Inn Express has an indoor pool, a whirlpool, and a continental breakfast is included.

The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

The hotel offers 5-star accommodation with a hot tub.  All units are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a microwave, a coffee machine, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk. Guest rooms include a wardrobe.

Featuring a restaurant, bar, shared lounge and free WiFi, The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is located in Tusayan, 10 km from Mather Campground and 12 km from Bright Angel Trail. This 5-star hotel offers a concierge service and a tour desk.

The hotel features an indoor pool, fitness centre, evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk.

Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel

Canyon Plaza Premier Studio and Apartments is a 3 star hotel located 6 miles from the Grand Canyon.

There are only 10 rooms here and each room has a microwave, a refrigerator, and a coffee maker.

There is one restaurant here called JJK’s restaurant.  Close to the hotel is the Plaza Bonita where you can also eat.

Conclusion: Phoenix to Grand Canyon Day Trip

There are so many amazing things to see and do on the way from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon that it’s difficult to see and do anything. However, as you travel from the capital city to the state’s most famous natural location, take the time to discover some hidden gems in northern Arizona.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for your trip make sure you have a valid  Travel Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I have used  World Nomads  when I travel since 2015 when I went to Africa and I love them.

Getting coverage is important as you never know what will happen and need assistance when you are more than a hundred miles from home in case of an accident, sickness, theft, etc.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip  here.

Nicole LaBarge

Nicole is a travel expert who has been traveling to the American Southwest since 1992. There is so much to see and do in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and California. I spend part of the year in Phoenix and travel around the area visiting all the best places and going on the best hikes. Check out my detailed destination guides, the best hiking in each state guides, and the travel gear you need for your next trip.

Recent Posts

19 Day Trips from Vegas: Unmissable Adventures!

Discover the Top 19 Unforgettable Day Trips Just Hours from Vegas! Are you looking for day trips from Vegas?  Whether you are looking to get away from the strip or are using Vegas as a base...

15 Upscale Las Vegas Restaurants Worth the Hype

Vegas Fine Dining: A Tour of 15 Exquisite Upscale Dining Destinations Welcome to the ultimate guide to upscale dining in Las Vegas! Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply seeking a taste of...

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.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

What to See on an Epic Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Posted by Jake Case January 30, 2022 Updated October 15, 2023

If you’re heading up to the Grand Canyon South Rim from Phoenix, there’s plenty to see along the way.

Whether you want to know a couple quick stops along the route or you’re ready to make the drive a full-day thing with side-excursions, this guide will help you maximize the wow-factor no matter the timeline you’re working under. Below you’ll find a leg-by-leg breakdown of the road trip, including some of the best stops for grub, sightseeing, and exploring.

While the route mostly follows Interstate highways, even the direct non-stop drive to the Grand Canyon is interesting, especially for out-of-state travelers not used to the rugged terrain and varied landscapes of Arizona. It’s pretty common for first timers to experience shock and awe after leaving the scorching hot desert in Phoenix only to reach the high elevation Ponderosa pine forest in Flagstaff — where the temperature is 20 to 30 degrees cooler — in just two hours.

Related Read:   13 Waterfalls in the Grand Canyon You Won’t Believe are Real

Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip by Section

The quickest route from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is by traveling north on I-17 to Flagstaff, west on I-40 to Williams, and then north on Highway 64 — a 3 hour, 30 minute drive covering 229 miles (368 kilometers).

Of course, you may also choose to detour through Sedona (add at least 35 minutes of drive time) on the way to Flagstaff — and the beauty is absolutely worth the extra time.

Another alternate route is to take Highway 180 north from Flagstaff (add at least 15 minutes of drive time) instead of continuing on the Interstate to Williams. Highway 180 is gorgeous as you climb as high into the forest 8,000 feet above sea level near the San Francisco Peaks. But keep in mind this route also experiences more snow, ice, and road closures in the winter.

Related Read:   Visiting the Grand Canyon in Winter: Things to Do & Where to Stay

Segment 1: Phoenix to Flagstaff

Let’s be real, most Arizona locals don’t care for driving the 17 (yes, we put “the” in front of our freeway numbers, just like Californians) because we’ve all done it soooo many times.

But for visitors, this is a really interesting and dramatic stretch of highway. Iconic saguaros tower over the sweeping curves above Black Canyon City, the red rocks of Sedona and sometimes snow-capped San Francisco Peaks line the horizon as you drop into the Verde Valley, not to mention the sudden climb up into the cool forest after tromping across the desert for 90 minutes.

Enjoy the ride, pray you don’t get stuck in traffic — Friday night or Saturday morning + just one car accident = a lot of extra travel time — and consider stopping a couple times along the way too.

Segment 1 Highlight: Rock Springs Cafe

If you’re looking for a place to grub out on some breakfast and take in some local history, check out Rock Springs Cafe just north of Phoenix. Originally built as a general store in 1918, the Rock Springs Cafe has been an important watering hole for travelers for over a century — although the traveling in those days wasn’t nearly as easy as setting the cruise control and cranking up the AC!

Even if you’re not in the mood for some down home cookin’, Rock Springs still runs a little general store (yep, like Cracker Barrel but with more local flavor) plus an indigenous crafts boutique. But it’s also cool to just walk around a bit to look at the old buildings and take in the scenery of Sonoran Desert surrounding the place.

Also, Rock Springs is famous for its pies so if you’ve got a cooler in tow, bring one along for the ride with a plan to eat a piece of pie while watching the sun go down over the Grand Canyon.

Segment 1 Highlight: Montezuma Castle National Monument

Located right off of I-17 at Camp Verde, Montezuma Castle National Monument is a fab place to get a good look at an ancient cliff dwelling — something you likely won’t see at the Grand Canyon. Built over 900 years ago, the 5-story residence was used by the Sinagua people for over 300 years.

A visit to Montezuma Castle can be just a quick stop, as the walk from the parking to the dwelling viewing area is just 1/3 of a mile. The path also passes near Wet Beaver Creek, and although there is no creek access, you’ll get to see the surprisingly lush “riparian” environment of a desert creek juxtaposed against the creosote-dominated scrub at the cliff’s base.

Segment 1 Side Trip: Sedona

If you want to make your Phoenix to Grand Canyon drive as stunning as possible, be sure to take the side trip through Sedona. And even if you don’t stop along the way, the scenery is straight eye-candy from the Village of Oak Creek all the way to the top of Oak Creek Canyon.

And if time is on your side, consider hitting the trail, especially since Sedona has plenty of short and easy hikes right off the highway. Consider a short hike on popular but easy to access ones like Bell Rock , Cathedral Rock , or West Fork of Oak Creek .

You’ll pass Sedona’s plethora of shops and restaurants along the route, and Uptown Sedona is a fine place for a stroll if you want to browse for souvenirs, Southwestern jewelry, or crystals. If you’re in the mood to stop for a nice lunch, the Elote Cafe serves up the high-class Mexican cuisine created by Chef Jeff Smedstad.

See the full Phoenix to Grand Canyon driving route modified with the detour through Sedona here .

Related Read:   9 of the Best Places to Camp Near Sedona, Arizona

Segment 2: Flagstaff to Grand Canyon

Once you reach Flagstaff, you have a choice to take the safe route through Williams via I-40, or the scenic route by the San Francisco Peaks via US-180.

Unless you’re traveling during or directly after a big snow storm, I recommend the scenic route. The winding climb up through the forest up to 8,000 feet just feels more refreshing than weaving in between semis on I-40. Plus, the I-40 route bypasses downtown Flagstaff, so if you’re interested in stopping in this cool college town, the scenic route also makes sense.

On the flip side, Williams is an interesting little town in its own right, and if you want to catch some hardcore Route 66 vibes — or want to check out a dope wildlife park — Williams is the way to go. Obviously if you’re just trying to get to the Grand Canyon ASAP, just go the fast way.

Related Read:   The 7 Best Caves in Arizona for Subterranean Exploration

Segment 2 Highlight: Bearizona

On the eastern outskirts of Williams sits a unique attraction called Bearizona . This beloved-by-locals high-country wildlife park features both a safari-style drive-through area and a walk-through zoo where you can view all types of forest-dwelling North-American animals. Among the beasts you’ll encounter are mule deer, bighorn sheep, arctic wolves, and of course BEARS.

Just keep in mind a solid visit to Bearizona takes about two hours, so plan accordingly. If you want to incorporate a meal into this stop, Bearizona’s walk-through area has both a snackbar and a restaurant (located in the hotel attached to the gift shop).

Related Read:   9 Amazingly Cozy Cabin Rentals in Williams, Arizona

Segment 2 Highlight: Williams

If you stay on the fastest route to Grand Canyon, the highways bypasses the heart of Williams, so you’ll have to venture a couple miles off the route — but it’s a quick and easy detour. So if you’re into Route 66 nostalgia, it’s worth it to stop — or even just stay in the car and take a couple minutes to drive down the main drag.

Williams is a small burg of just 7,000 people, so the main point of interest is the historic business district that takes up just a few city blocks. There are loads of Route 66-themed stores and galleries, and the Cruiser’s Route 66 Cafe is great if you want to grab a bite in a blast-from-the-past atmosphere.

Related Read:   12 Magical Glamping Sites Near the Grand Canyon South Rim

Segment 2 Highlight: Flagstaff

I cannot tell a lie — Flagstaff is my hometown and I love it so I’m biased — but I highly recommend you stop by. The historic downtown is the place to walk around, with tons of old sandstone and brick buildings built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Two historic hotels — the Weatherford and the Monte Vista — anchor the district, each with its own distinctive architecture and lore (the Monte Vista in particular is fabled to be haunted).

Flag’s downtown is home to plethora of superb eateries, with Martanne’s , Diablo Burger , and Brandy’s Cafe are some of the most loved by locals — my personal favorites are NiMarco’s Pizza and Bigfoot BBQ .

Related Read:   The 10 Best Hotels in Flagstaff for Every Traveler

Segment 2 Side Trip: Snowbowl Road

If you opt for the scenic route via Highway 180, this is an option to make your trip  extra scenic. This winding mountain road just north of Flagstaff will take you through beautiful aspen groves to a viewpoint on the western slope of the San Francisco Peaks.

It’s a 7-mile drive from the junction up to Snow Bowl (the local ski resort) at an elevation of 9,300 feet — where you’ll have beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re game for a short hike in the forest, there are three options: Veit Springs Trail , Aspen Corner , and Aspen Loop Trail .

I recommend this side trip in the summer (for the best weather) and fall (for the autumn colors) — just be ready for lots of cars and people when the fall colors peak in early to mid October.

Explore Arizona

12 Best Hikes in Arizona, From Desert to Tundra

11 Unforgettable Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

14 Gorgeous Cabin Rentals in Arizona

8 Best Grand Canyon Airbnbs for Adventurous Travelers

Essential Guide to Hiking the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim

Get epic travel ideas delivered to your inbox with Weekend Wanderer, our newsletter inspiring more than 10,000 readers every week.

Seen in: Arizona , Grand Canyon , Phoenix , Road Trips , Southwest

Posted by Jake Case

Jake is a bearded, flannel-loving tree-hugger with a passion for the natural world. A geographer by education, he’s worked as a park ranger with the National Park Service, a tour guide at the Grand Canyon South Rim, and a docent at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West.

11 Best Campervan Rentals in Phoenix for Your Next Road Trip

Find your next adventure.

Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly.

Related Posts

What to See and Do on a Chicago to Nashville Road Trip

Here's your guide to the perfect road trip between Chicago and Nashville, filled with great stops along the way that will turn this unassuming journey into a trip you'll never forget.

12 Best Airbnb Rentals Near Zion National Park, Utah

Check out 12 of the best places to stay near Zion National Park, no matter your budget or group size.

12 Chill Vacation Rentals in Albuquerque, New Mexico

A trip to New Mexico’s largest city is not complete without taking in the city's culture and exploring the architectural styles of its Native American and Spanish ancestry.

14 Vanlife Hacks: How to Make Van Living Easier

There's so much online content out there about vanlife and how to make it work for you. But it seems most of those stories focus on the weekend warriors or one-time van trippers, rather than the full-time vanlifer.

The Ultimate Dallas to San Antonio Road Trip

A road trip between Dallas and San Antonio can be filled with tons of excellent and quirky stops, including caves, award-winning donut shops, and even...giant pecans.

The 10 Best Scenic Drives in Oregon

From the enchanting waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge to the salt flats of the Alvord Desert, you’re sure to find a scenic drive to your liking on this list.

The Grand Canyon, a mile-deep gash in the crust of Arizona’s rust-red sandstone, has been a beloved tourist destination for over a century, and it’s easy to see why.

A Winter Guide to Visiting Zion National Park

With minimal snow and moderate temperatures in the main canyon, intrepid winter travelers have the unique opportunity to see this top-ten park in an uncrowded atmosphere.

Travel Advice & Inspiration From The Experts

Suggestions

Phoenix to the grand canyon road trip: 17 best stops.

We have been lucky enough to experience the car ride from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon National Park and back a couple times. It is an easy route to drive if you want to straight through but is filled with really enriching, worthwhile stops along the way that allow you to see all that this area has to offer!

We’re going to talk about how to road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, and the places to enjoy along the way.

Table of contents

How far is the car ride from phoenix to the grand canyon, the ideal route to take, places to stop during your road trip from phoenix to the grand canyon, places to stay when driving from phoenix to the grand canyon, the ideal time of year to road trip from phoenix to the grand canyon.

The trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by car takes around four hours or less, depending on the route you take and traffic.

Option 1: The route that takes the shortest amount of time is about three hours and twenty minutes long, covering 224 miles of road. This is the most direct route between the two locations. It hugs the rim of the valley where Sedona is located and takes you through Flagstaff.

Option 2: The second main route between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon takes you on a slight detour through Sedona. This drive is 225 miles and takes approximately three hours and fifty minutes.

Option 3: The third route you can take goes just a bit farther west than the other two, skirting the northern edge of Prescott. The drive takes about three and a half hours to cover the 215 miles.

We highly, HIGHLY suggest the second route mentioned above because it guides you on a slight detour into the Verde Valley and to Sedona which sits in the heart of the Red Rocks. We think this is the best scenic drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, and an overall fantastic road tip. Sedona can be seen in a couple of hours if you don’t have a lot of time to spare, but it’s best enjoyed for a few days. This allows you to stroll through the town, immerse yourself in the surrounding nature and native history, and enjoy a truly remarkable sunset that sets the valley on fire.

The drive itself is beautiful and puts the changing landscape of Arizona on display. With a change in elevation of around 6,000 feet, this route starts in the arid desert climate of Phoenix where the dusty ground is flat and dotted with cacti.

As you begin the drive north on I-17, the level ground changes to rolling hills. This was the first time we saw a Saguaro cactus, the most identifiable and defining plants that grow in the Sonoran Desert. These towering cacti only grow in this small area of the world and hundreds of thousands dot the earth on either side of the highway.

Further north on I-17 as you start to angle northeast, the terrain becomes more mountainous and rugged. The brown undulating hills become craggy and rocky. The cacti give way to low growing bushes which become more numerous the farther you get.

Once you turn onto I-179 towards Sedona, the view changes quickly. Instead of a barren desert, you will be gifted with a view filled with red and orange rocks and mountains of every hue. Trees such as the Arizona cypress, sycamore, and ponderosa pines line the roadway. The terrain is lush and green. Impressive sandstone formations rise out of the ground to towering heights.

Continuing north towards Flagstaff and beyond, your drive will consist of winding through dense, old mixed-conifer forests, a far different landscape than the one you started in. These trees escort you all the way to the Grand Canyon where you get to take in the vast canyon and surrounding vista carved out by the Colorado River over millions of years.

This list is a culmination of our experiences and places we think are worth taking a little extra time to check out! You will find suggestions for places to eat, lodging, campgrounds, hikes, tourist attractions, and natural historical features. Starting in Phoenix, we will order this list from south to north, ending at the Grand Canyon.

1. Lola Coffee

Every successful road trip starts with coffee right? We think so. Lola Coffee has delicious drinks, yummy pastries, and small breakfast bites to get you going! There are two locations, one in downtown Phoenix and one in Arcadia, a neighborhood of Phoenix to the northeast and bordering Scottsdale to the west.

I got my usual cold brew coffee while Pierce opted for water (a smart but boring option!). We both ordered the breakfast burrito and split a croissant. Yum!

• Address: 3950 E. Indian School Rd. #120, Phoenix, AZ 85018 or 1001 N. 3rd Ave, #3, Phoenix, Az 85003
• Website: https://lolacoffeebarphx.com/

2. Taliesin West

One of the most underrated things to see on a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park is Taliesin West. Open for public tours, Taliesin West is a remarkable home designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright that embodies desert living. Wright, along with his apprentices, built and maintained Taliesin West almost solely on his own and used it as his winter home from 1938-1959.

Built from the rocks and sand of the surrounding Sonoran Desert, Taliesin West is built into the land it occupies. The sprawling one story interlaced structures of the home are built around gardens and pools.

You can enjoy Taliesin West by taking a self-guided audio tour that takes one hour to complete or by joining a guided ninety minute tour. Public tours cost $39-$54 per adult and are available Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Be sure to book in advance and plan for a morning tour as the property is only open until noon on the previously mentioned days.

• Address: 12621 North Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85259
• Website: https://franklloydwright.org/

3. Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River Recreation Area

Fossil Creek is a bit off the main route (30-45 minutes) but it’s a great area for anyone interested in hiking, swimming, camping, and an overall scenic drive. The calcium content in the water has created fascinating limestone deposits that have formed natural swimming pools and waterfalls. The gem colored waters are naturally maintained around 70°F. If you have extra time, we think it’s worth staying at one of the surrounding campsites so you have more time to explore.

Reservations for parking are required April 1st to October 1st. Limited numbers of permits are available in order to keep the crowds down, which we think is fantastic! Camping is only permitted in select areas.

• Coordinates: 34°23’40.5”N 111°39’02.8”W
• Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=75356

4. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well (discussed next) are both must-see Native American monuments when going from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by car. Built by the Sinagua people around 1050 CE, Montezuma Castle is actually a large collection of cliff dwellings containing twenty rooms. This impressive feat of architecture is built five stories high into the walls of the limestone cliff. There are ruins of other dwellings that are on ground level that allow you a closer look at how they were built.

The monument is accessible to all via a 1/3 mile paved loop that walks you past the monument itself and back along the spring fed Beaver Creek. While it was crowded when we visited, we didn’t feel cramped or rushed to see everything.

Since this is a national monument, you can enter without additional fees with an America The Beautiful pass. If you don’t have this, the entrance fee is $10 per adult. Well behaved dogs are allowed on the leash. We visited with our dog, Ethyl!

• Coordinates: 34°36’41.8”N 111°50’06.0”W
• Website: https://www.nps.gov/moca/index.htm

5. Montezuma Well

Located just 11 miles north of Montezuma Castle, the Well is quite a special and unique feature. The water itself contains a number of plants and animals not found in any other body of water in the world! The walk from the parking lot to the rim of the well is 1/3 mile long and paved.

Once at the edge of the rim, you get to see the Well itself along with cliff dwellings that reside just beneath the rim. There is a trail down steep steps that takes you to the water’s edge and to more dwellings.

Be sure to bring a hat and water because there is minimal shade. Some days, the Well can actually provide a significant amount of relief from the heat as it can be up to twenty degrees fahrenheit cooler than the air above.

There is no entrance fee!

• Coordinates: 34°38’55.9″N 111°45’15.6″W
• Website: https://www.nps.gov/moca/planyourvisit/exploring-montezuma-well.htm

6. Bell Rock

One of the first distinguishable landmarks as you approach Sedona is the large, rounded butte just off to the side of the road called Bell Rock (for obvious reasons). There are a couple of hikes around and up onto Bell Rock that are popular with hikers and bikers.

Pro Tip: GET UP EARLY! It can get super crowded by mid morning so if you want a peaceful hike, get up with the sun.

There are two main trails we suggest checking out. The first takes you up onto Bell Rock (not all the way, while this is possible it can be quite technical so proceed with caution). It is a 0.8 mile out-and-back hike with 203 feet of elevation. The second trail is Bell Rock Loop which is 1.8 miles total with the same elevation gain. It takes you around the entire base of the formation.

You need a Red Rock Pass ($5 for one day) or an America The Beautiful Pass to park. The Red Rock Pass can be really useful as it allows parking at eighteen difference fee sites in the Sedona area.

• Coordinates: 34°48’19.8”N 111°46’00.5”W (northern parking lot)

7. Cathedral Rock

Another popular and stunning “red rock” formation in Sedona is Cathedral Rock, and it’s definitely worth seeing if you’re on a road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. In fact, it’s probably one of the most recognizable and pictured sandstone buttes in Arizona. Beautiful and towering red spires rise from the rocks below.

There are a lot of trails that link together to get you to Cathedral Rock, but the closest and most direct trail is the Cathedral Rock Trail. It is 1.2 miles out-and-back and takes you up 741 feet of elevation. There is minimal shade, so we suggest doing it super early or much later in the day to enjoy the natural shade from the rocks themselves (and to avoid crowds).

A Red Rock Pass or American The Beautiful Pass are needed to park here.

• Coordinates: 34°49’30.7”N 111°47’18.3”W

8. Pump House Station

Ok, if you’ve gone on a couple of hikes after the two hour drive from Phoenix, you’re probably ready for some food. We really enjoyed the lunch from Pumphouse Station. They serve breakfast and lunch daily and dinner on Friday and Saturday nights.

• Address: 313 State Road 179 Suite D10, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Website: https://pumphousestation.com

9. Tlaquepaque Arts And Shopping Village

Inspired by its namesake, Tlaquepaque in Mexico, this stucco adorned outdoor shopping village is filled with one-of-a-kind art galleries, jewelry stores, and specialty stores. Most things are on the pricier side, but we loved going into all the shops and walking through the beautifully curated and landscaped paths.

It’s not very big so it can be seen in an hour or two depending on how fast you shop.

• Address: 335 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Website: https://www.tlaq.com

If you’re driving from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by car and need a little break, check out downtown Sedona. There are a number of shops featuring Native American art and jewelry as well as stores selling every type of crystal you can imagine! There are a lot of great restaurants and ice cream shops. We ate dinner at Elote Cafe, which serves regional Mexican food!

There are also so many other hikes in this area that we would be listing them for days, but please check them out! Some of our favorites (other than the ones listed above) include Seven Sacred Pools and Soldier Pass Trail, Devil’s Bridge Trail, and Capitol Butte.

11. Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook

For a perfect unobstructed panoramic view of Sedona at sunset, drive up to the Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook and enjoy the rocks that are set ablaze by the setting sun. There is a $3 parking fee and the lot fills up fast, so plan to get there well in advance to secure a spot.

• Address: 538 Airport Road, Sedona, AZ 86336

12. Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park is a 286 acre nature preserve that was founded in 1991. Just fifteen minutes from downtown, it can be accessed by driving west out of Sedona on AZ-89A. Oak Creek runs centrally through the state park and wends its way through the lush greenery shaded by manzanita and juniper trees.

There are five main trails, all less than three miles long but with really stunning views of many of the main rock formations in the area including Cathedral Rock. Eagles Nest Trail, coming in at 2.8 miles and only 341 feet of elevation gain gives you the perspectives of the entire area.

At the top there are also informative plaques that talk about the changing landscape as well as images that will help you identify landmarks. We think that the whole area is really easy to navigate thanks to the signs.

There is an admission fee per person to gain access to Red Rock State Park. Also, it’s worth noting that dogs are not allowed.

• Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Website: https://azstateparks.com/red-rock

13. Palatki Heritage Site

Nestled in the cliffs of Red Canyon, Palatki Heritage Site is a must-visit if you’re on a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park. At this site you get to witness cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people dating back to 1100 CE.

There are also breathtaking pictographs and petroglyphs on display that were created by not only the Sinagua people, but likely people who lived one thousand or more years before. We love ancient history of all kinds so this was really exciting to see!

Accessible by tour via reservation only, the site is open daily from 9:30 am to 3 pm. There are three trails, one of which is wheelchair accessible.

• Coordinates: 34°54’53.6”N 111°54’08.4”W
• Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55368

Check out a (revival) ghost town! Stopping to check out Jerome in Arizona only adds an additional thirty minutes to your road trip. Jerome was founded in 1876 and was a booming copper mining town, boasting up to 15,000 residents in the 1920s. After the mine closed in the 1950s Jerome became a ghost town of about 50 people.

Today it has become a tourist attraction and center for funky art. As of 2021, Jerome had a population of about 460 people. It’s a really interesting town to visit built upon Cleopatra Hill. Despite being a tourist destination, it felt really authentic and was not gimmicky like you may think.

Walk up and down the main street to admire the historic buildings and houses. There are a surprising number of restaurants with a variety of fares. You can also take tours of the old mines with all of the equipment still standing.

15. Slide Rock State Park

If you’re traveling from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by car, this is the perfect place to stop for a picnic and cool off with a swim. Slide Rock State Park is just six miles north of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon. It’s a gorgeous and refreshing natural pool and rock slide. You are still surrounded by the famous rusty red rocks and lush greenery seen around Sedona.

There is an entrance fee up to $30 per car and is open for the majority of the day throughout the entire year.

• Coordinates: 34°56’41.1”N 111°45’10.9”W
• Website: https://azstateparks.com/slide-rock

16. Sunset Crater Volcano National Park

Sunset Crater Volcano erupted just under 1,000 years ago and left behind some really distinctive geological formations. It is now a national park where you can walk through black lava fields via numerous trails.

Entrance fees cost $15-$25. It is free for holders of the America The Beautiful pass and who have the annual national monuments pass for the Flagstaff area.

• Address: 6082 Sunset Crater Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
• Website: https://www.nps.gov/sucr/index.htm

17. Hiking In The Grand Canyon

Congratulations! You’ve now completed your road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. And now that you’re here, it’s time to explore!

The view from the rim around the Grand Canyon is breathtaking enough, but we suggest venturing into the canyon if you’re up to it. Make sure you’re prepared with enough water and food.

Regardless of the time of year, we suggest wearing a hat with a wide rim. Weather can change unexpectedly, especially in the winter months, so pack extra layers. Most importantly, know your limitations!!!

Pro Tip: Our favorite hikes are Bright Angel Trail to Havasupai Gardens, South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point, and Shoshone Point.

We have some lodging suggestions if you want to make your trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by car a multi day journey! Because of the abundance of activities and it being located about halfway between the two, Sedona makes the most sense to hunker down for a night or two. However, there are a couple of places that are scattered throughout the drive that we think are great as well.

We’ve stayed in a couple places in the area and had good experiences at all three. Hotels and Airbnbs in the downtown and surrounding areas are expensive, especially in peak tourist season (spring and mid to late fall). If you want something affordable on your road trip, we suggest the Holiday Inn Express Sedona in Oak Creek. It is about a fifteen minute drive away from downtown.

For something more upscale and all inclusive, consider booking at the Hyatt Vacation Club at Piñon Pointe. It is located just steps away from downtown and really convenient.

The third place we stayed was an Airbnb in a really quiet residential area. We loved how peaceful and cozy the casita and gardens were. The owner was so friendly and welcoming!

• Holiday Inn Express: https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/sedona/sdoaz/hoteldetail
• Hyatt: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/arizona/hyatt-vacation-club-at-pinon-pointe/sedsh
• Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/34318637

The Jerome Grand Hotel is a really unique place to stay as it transports you back in time to the 1920s while providing modern amenities, including WIFI, climate controlled rooms (yes for AC!), and free breakfast in the lobby. It sits upon Cleopatra Hill with an unobstructed view of the Verde Valley below.

• Address: 200 Hill Street, Jerome, AZ 86331
• Website: https://jeromegrandhotel.net/

The only campground we have stayed at in this general area is the Clear Creek Group Campgrounds near the Fossil Creek area. It’s a rustic campground that accommodates tents, trailers, RVs, and motorhomes (36 feet for less). Their 18 single unit sites are first come first serve.

We enjoyed our stay here and it put us close to some really cool trails and swimming areas! Because it is close to a river, there are a lot of trees which provide much needed shade from the Arizona sun!

Coordinates: 34°30’58.8”N 111°46’05.0”W

Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=55274&actid=29

If you don’t already know, we LOVE offseason travel. There are always less crowds allowing for a less hectic experience. The early spring and mid to late fall are the best times to road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. Temperatures are much more mild and the crowds are significantly less in all areas!

We have done this road trip in early February and in mid May. Both were excellent and we highly recommend these times!

Wrapping Up

With a drive time of less than four hours, the trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park by car can be done any number of ways. If you want to drive straight through, you’ll get to enjoy the passing landscape as it transitions from a pure desert feel to a semi-arid desert with greenery and pines.

To better appreciate and immerse yourself in the area, we absolutely suggest visiting at least a couple of the stops listed above. The area spanning the two destinations are absolutely stunning!

Katie and Pierce

The 43 Best Winter Vacations In The USA (2024 Guide)

7 Best RV Skirting Ideas For Winter (DIY, Custom & More)

The Ultimate Road Trip Guide: Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

• June 30, 2023

If you’re planning a drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, you’re about to embark on a road trip adventure that contains many noteworthy stops along the way. We’ve put together the definitive guide for a Phoenix to the Grand Canyon road trip. This breathtaking journey will take you through captivating landscapes, vibrant desert vistas, and iconic landmarks. We’ll help you navigate the scenic routes, find the hidden gems, and highlight the must-visit stops along the way. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Arizona.

Pre-Trip Preparation

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is during spring and fall, when it is neither too hot nor too cold. Temperatures during the winter season can drop dramatically and the area receives a fair amount of snowfall every winter. During the summer, it can get into the 90–100 degree Fahrenheit temperatures with blazing sun. Whenever you visit, make sure to pack wisely for the season, as the temperatures can differ so dramatically throughout the day! We recommend packing layers, so that you’ll be prepared for both the cooler mornings and the warmer afternoons are can adjust accordingly. 

The nearest entrance to the Grand Canyon from both Phoenix and Flagstaff is the south entrance. It is roughly three and a half hours from Phoenix and about an hour and a half from Flagstaff. The nearest international airport is in Arizona’s capital city of Phoenix. Flagstaff is one of the cities that is nearest to the Grand Canyon, where you will find plenty of adventures and things to do. 

In neighboring towns to the Grand Canyon, you’ll never lack for choice in accommodations. In Flagstaff, there are over 70 hotels you can choose from at various price points! Our suggestion is to book well in advance for the spring and fall season should you choose to visit during that time. We also recommended you book any additional tours or activities you would like to go on, as they tend to fill up far in advance due to their popularity.

Exploring Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona, has the nearest international airport to the Grand Canyon. This dynamic city also boasts an abundance of sights to see and activities to experience before you begin your journey to the Grand Canyon! Before setting off on your Grand Canyon road trip, immerse yourself in Phoenix’s vibrant dining scene and check out its best sites. The following include just a couple of our top recommendations for Phoenix experiences before hitting the road.

1. Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West :

• It wouldn’t be a true southwestern road trip if you didn’t stop at a Western museum. Here you’ll find all sorts of historical artifacts, arts, jewelry, and much more of the American Southwestern cultures on display. This is a great start to learning about the history of the American West and its variety of cultures.

2. Desert Botanical Gardens :

• If you would rather spend the day outdoors, this is the place to go. You’ll find some short trails to stroll along to learn about the native desert plants and environments. It truly is a sight to see with the variety of plants present!

Must-See Stops Along the Way

Cottonwood & jerome.

In Cottonwood, you’ll encounter some phenomenal vineyards and wineries, as well as some amazing kayaking on the Verde River. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is known for camping, hiking, and kayaking. In the neighboring town of Jerome, you’ll get to learn about the history of a once-booming copper-mining town! You can visit the Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum while you are there to learn more about the town’s rich history.

Prescott is the home of the world’s oldest rodeo, which takes place during the first week in July. Don’t miss Whiskey Row, named for its historic saloons that originated in the Gold Rush era. You’ll find authentic cowboy history and culture here unlike anywhere else. There are also two amazing museums to visit here—the Museum of Indigenous People  and the Sharlot Hall Museum .

Sedona’s Red Rocks are world-renowned for their beauty. With a desert sunrise or sunset, the vibrant red rocks illuminate the landscape in a unique way that is hard to find anywhere else. Sedona is home to some amazing hiking trails, Oak Creek, and other scenic sites. At Grand Canyon Adventures, we offer an exclusive private tour of Sedona that includes a 15-minute helicopter ride and stops at some of the major viewpoints. Our professional guides and pilots enhance this tour experience. If you can only stop in Sedona for a short time, here are some notable places to see: 

• This 1.8 mile round trip trek boasts a 54-foot-tall and 45-foot-long natural rock bridge. It’s one of Sedona’s most famous and recognizable viewpoints. 
• This 1.2 mile out-and-back trail showcases some of Sedona’s beautiful and unique Red Rock formations. This is a popular option for adventurers of all ages!
• Nestled on Oak Creek, you’ll find a natural slide made out of the landscape that you can swim down. It’s a fun adventure for all ages!
• This is one of Sedona’s premier shopping locations that is fashioned after a traditional Mexican village! It hosts exclusive art galleries and a wide variety of arts to see. 

Flagstaff is your last stop before the Grand Canyon, where you will find some great accommodations! It has a rich history as an old logging town that is now a quaint and quiet college town. Flagstaff sits in one of the largest deciduous pine forests in the world, was the first international dark sky city, and is near the beautiful Humpreys Peak. There are some wonderful monuments and sights to see while in Flagstaff that can be seen during Grand Canyon Adventures’ Flagstaff Monuments Day Tour, which is currently only offered as a private tour. 

If you come during the winter, you’ll most commonly find Flagstaff under a blanket of snow. For those looking to go skiing or snowboarding, check out Flagstaff’s local ski resort on Humpreys Peak, Snowbowl. If you come during the summer, you’ll find perfect temperatures and endless amounts of hiking trails, kayaking, and outdoor events to fill your time.

Arriving at Grand Canyon National Park

Finally, the main reason for your road trip adventure—Grand Canyon National Park! Totaling 277 miles long, 18 miles wide at its largest, and a mile deep, it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. There are four main entrances to get into the Grand Canyon National Park: the North, South, West, and East entrances. Each entrance provides a unique view of the Grand Canyon, and we can guarantee you won’t see the same view twice while you are there! 

Park Entrances and Information:

• This entrance only receives about 1/10th of the total visitors for the Grand Canyon each year and it is only open to the public from mid-May to mid-October. 
• This entrance offers the most popular and common views of the Grand Canyon that you see, and it is an hour and a half drive from Flagstaff! This park entrance is open year round for sightseeing, and at the South Rim you will find over two dozen viewpoints where you can stop (the most out of any of the park entrances)! 
• The West entrance of the Grand Canyon is most notably famous for its Havasu Falls and The Glass Skywalk. Not many visitors come to this entrance, as it is one of the farthest away from any major city. This entrance also requires a separate fee from the regular Grand Canyon entrance fee since it is on Havasupai Tribal Land. 
• Like the South entrance, the East entrance is the other popular entry point to Grand Canyon National Park. It’s also the closest to Desert View Watchtower—a great viewpoint with some amazing history!

Activities & Tours:

• One of most notable activities to do at the Grand Canyon is rafting the majestic Colorado River. This multi-day adventure requires visitors to either have expert river knowledge or go with a professional guide, as it has rapids unlike anywhere else in the world.
• To see another breathtaking view of the Grand Canyon, take a 30-minute helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon . Grand Canyon Adventures partners with local helicopter tour companies to provide a one-of-a-kind experience for every guest.
• If you are looking for a comprehensive overview of the Grand Canyon, consider going with Grand Canyon Adventures on our Grand Canyon Day Tour . This top-rated guided tour takes you to the best viewpoints and stops in the Grand Canyon. Our extremely knowledgeable guides curate an experience that involves both adventure and learning. And if you would rather adventure solo or with a group, we can always arrange a Private Grand Canyon Day Tour for you. 

• A beautiful overlook point that is popular for hiking. It is a 1.8-mile out-and-back trail. 
• There are plenty of places to stop and check out the views. This trail does take you all the way down to the river and is a grueling hike if done in its entirety. It is 8 miles long one way. You can turn around at any point to return back to the top and the visitor’s center. 
• Here at Grand Canyon Adventures, we take care of the trip preparation and planning for our private hiking tours . Your guide is extremely knowledgeable and WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certified. You can trust that your safety is in the best hands. 
• As always, bring more than enough water for your hikes, sunscreen, and wear proper hiking shoes, clothes, and gear. Be sure to research your trails extensively before embarking on your adventure! 

• Some of our favorite lookout points includes: Lipan Point, Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Grandview Point, Moran Point, and plenty more viewpoints in Grand Canyon Village. You won’t find the same view twice at any of these different viewpoints! 
• We suggest taking the Grand Canyon Day Tour with Grand Canyon Adventures. You’ll get to see the majority of these viewpoints, and you’ll learn more information about the Canyon from our fantastic guides than you would get at museums or from pamphlets.

Nearby Attractions

If your itinerary isn’t already full by now, here are some more adventures to add on to your road trip of a lifetime! Other world-renowned sights to see include Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in Northern Arizona. Antelope Canyon is the site of the world’s most most expensive photograph sold at $6.5 million (as of 2014)! This slot canyon is located on Navajo nation land and has limited availability for tours every day. Horseshoe Bend is located on the east side of the Grand Canyon in Page, AZ. It gets its name from its iconic horseshoe shape that was created by the Colorado River. If you’re looking to visit these sites, we offer a day tour that takes you to both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend . Come with us, and we’ll show you the best sights and cut the lines! 

If you feel like you have no idea how to see all these amazing sights across Northern Arizona, we also offer our Grand Canyon Excursion 4-Day Tour , which takes you to all of the best stops. We take care of all of the trip preparation, so all you have to do is meet us in Flagstaff to begin your adventure. This 4-day tour sees the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Sedona, and more!

Road Trip Tips & Safety

• There is a highway that takes you directly from Phoenix to Flagstaff, which is I-17 North. Once you make it into Flagstaff, you can take AZ-664 North to the South Entrance of the Grand Canyon.
• Most of the stops that have been mentioned are on the way from Phoenix to Flagstaff via I-17 North and are extremely accessible.
• During the winter, the roads surrounding and on the way to the Grand Canyon can be extremely icy, so drive slowly and cautiously during the winter season.
• The Grand Canyon and surrounding areas are filled with a wide variety of wildlife . Be aware when driving and look out for animals crossing the road.
• Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your time at the Grand Canyon. The elevation and heat affect a lot of people and are some of the main reasons visitors seek medical attention. 
• Be aware of wildlife and do not feed or provoke them!

Tour the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is surrounded by world renowned beauty, and a road trip from Phoenix is a great way to experience it. From statuesque saguaros painting the desert landscape and the red rocks of Sedona, to the breathtaking views of the San Francisco mountains in Flagstaff, there are many places to visit along your drive to the Grand Canyon. Once you arrive, take a Grand Canyon day tour to experience this amazing landscape with expert guides, which is truly one of the best ways to see the Grand Canyon . If you’re tired from your journey, you’ll love getting to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights while we take care of the transportation and planning. Contact Grand Canyon Adventures today to learn more and book your tour!

Need Help Planning Your Trip?

Quick links, area guides.

Searching Availability...

Phoenix to Grand Canyon (Top Sites + 5 Day Itinerary)

Phoenix, Arizona to the Grand Canyon is a absolutely phenomenal vacation adventure to take with your family. This area is simply bursting with awe-inspiring scenery and mind-blowing activities that are sure to impress and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our family was completely blown away by how incredible this area of Arizona was. There are so many diverse and stunning landscapes to see (aside from the impressive Grand Canyon.) There is so much history here to try and understand from enormous meteor craters to vast lava fields to numerous Native American dwellings. And the hiking here is absolutely fantastic! (And perfect for families!)

Below, I would love to share with you the top sites that our family found on our own vacation from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon.  These are our favorite sites, the best kid-friendly trails that we hiked and I’ll give you our 7 day itinerary in hopes that this can help you more easily plan a spectacular adventure from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon with your own family. 

The Top Things to Do

Phoenix to the grand canyon, 1. montezuma castle national monument.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best preserved cliff dwellings in North America! Built approximately 800 years ago by the Sinagua Indians, this incredible 5 story, 20 room building lies practically hidden among the limestone cliffs in the Verde Valley of Central Arizona.

Today you can only gaze at it from afar, but our family really enjoyed visiting this site and trying to imagine what it was like living up in this cliff-side dwelling hundreds of years ago.

10 Traveling Feet Fun Fact: Along the 0.4 mile loop path to see Montezuma Castle there are white barked trees with gnarled branches. These are Arizona Sycamores and they can be over 200 years old!

Where is Montezuma Castle Located?

Montezuma Castle is right off of I-17N and about 1.5 hours north of Phoenix, Arizona.

2. SEDONA, AZ

Sedona is a great town that is completely surrounded by a spectacular landscape full of majestic red rock formations and stunning scenery. This is a true hiker’s paradise and there are breathtaking trails for all levels and ages. 

Our family was seriously impressed with Sedona. Before visiting I had no idea just how beautiful it would be. Sedona’s dramatic landscape, incredible atmosphere and its ever-changing colors that dance upon these rocks simply took our breath away. We highly recommend visiting!

10 Traveling Feet Tip: If you are able to, try and catch one of Sedona’s phenomenal sunsets and/or sunrises. They are completely breathtaking!

Where is Sedona Located?

Sedona is located just 2 hours north of Phoenix, Arizona and 2 hours south of the Grand Canyon. 

OUR FAVORITE SEDONA HIKES (PREFECT FOR FAMILIES!)

Our favorite hiking trails in Sedona are Doe Mountain Trail (see above), Courthouse Loop/ Bell Rock T rail and Fay Canyon .  For sunrise, our favorite spot was at Airport Mesa Overlook . And our favorite adventure was with Pink Jeep Tours on Broken Arrow Trail (which we highly recommend!) 

5 Easy Hikes in Sedona Your Family Shouldn’t Miss!

WHERE WE STAYED IN SEDONA

We stayed at the   Sky Rock Inn of Sedona which was not only a great hotel with amazing views and family friendly, but it is also less than 1 mile from Airport Mesa, which is a top vortex spot and has a fantastic sunrise view! (Sunset from our hotel balcony was incredible too!)

3 . WEST FORK OF OAK CREEK TRAIL

The West Fork of Oak Creek Trail in the Coconino National Forest is an insanely fun trail that is full of gorgeous scenery, spectacular rock formations and it crosses a creek 13 times! Just grab some water shoes   and walk all or part of this 3.3 mile one way, shady, breathtaking trail. It’s Fantastic!

10 Traveling Feet Tip: Arrive early to hike this trail. (Due to it’s popularity the parking lot fills up quickly.) There is also a charge to park at this trailhead.

Where is West Fork of Oak Creek Trail Located?

The West Fork of Oak Creek is located just 10 miles north of Sedona. 

4. WALNUT CANYON NATIONAL MONUMENT

At Walnut Canyon National Monument you can walk through an ancient cliff dwelling consisting of 25 cliff-side rooms! These dwellings were once inhabited by the Sinagua people. It’s amazing to think how these Native Americans accessed these dwellings so high up in the cliff and lived here for so many years.

Where is Walnut Canyon National Monument Located?

Walnut Canyon is located on the east side of Flagstaff, AZ. (Flagstaff is 2 hours north of Phoenix.)

5. METEOR CRATER NATURAL LANDMARK

I’ll admit, I was unsure about visiting Meteor Crater Natural Landmark when I first saw that it was privately owned and kind of pricey, but I am so glad we decided to go. This incredible crater is ~1 mile across and ~700′ deep! It is also the best preserved impact site on Earth! 

Our family thoroughly enjoyed seeing this impressive site. Just to give you an idea of this crater’s size, there is a cut out of a 6 foot tall person down in the center. (You can see this cut out with a telescope that they provide). But in the picture above there are four real people standing along it’s rim on the side closest to me. There are simply no words to describe how small you feel standing next to this massive hole! 

The museum at this site is excellent too! Our children really loved all of the interactive videos of how meteors impact Earth and they were really excited to be able to touch a pillow sized meteor fragment from the site that weighed over 1,400lbs! 

Where is Meteor Crater Natural Landmark Located?

Meteor Crater lies 45 minutes east of Flagstaff, Arizona. This would be a fun side trip off the direct route from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon.

6. PETRIFIED FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Petrified Forest National Park is one of the largest concentrations of petrified wood in the world! View miles upon miles of beautifully-colored petrified wood lying scatted across the ground. Several short trails here will take you out among the large groupings of petrified wood and let you get a closer look at its amazing colors!

Our family really enjoyed visiting the Petrified Forest and learning about how all of these petrified logs came to be. Don’t miss Giant Logs Loop and Crystal Forest Loop in this park for some fantastic examples of petrified wood. And as you continue through this park, make sure you check out Blue Mesa Trail (see picture below.) It was like walking through another world!

Where is the Petrified Forest Located?

The Petrified Forest is 1 hour 45 minutes east of Flagstaff, Arizona. This would be a longer side trip off the direct route between Phoenix, Arizona and the Grand Canyon, but it’s definitely worth it if you have the extra time.

At the end of your visit, continue on this road and you’ll immediately end up in another incredible area called the Painted Desert (see our next top site below).

Read More: 

Petrified Forest/ Painted Desert, AZ 

(Important Information You Don’t Want to Miss!)

7. THE PAINTED DESERT

Journey through a land of beautifully colored scenery in the northern section of the Petrified Forest National Park. Numerous overlooks and fun trails will immerse you into this fascinating and unearthly landscape. Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to watch the colors explode and dance across these hills.

Where is the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert Located?

The Painted Desert is on the north side of the Petrified Forest National Park and lies 1 hour 45 minutes east of Flagstaff, Arizona. 

8. SUNSET CRATER VOLCANO NATIONAL MONUMENT

Did you know that you can visit a volcano and walk in its lava flow in Arizona? Just 30 minutes north of Flagstaff, AZ (or about 2 hours south of the Grand Canyon) is Sunset Crater Volcano. Here, around 1085 A.D., a powerful eruption dramatically altered the landscape and changed the lives of the people that once lived here forever.

When I first discovered Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, I knew I had to visit with my family. My children had never seen a volcano, let alone be able to walk in a lava flow! This was a great opportunity that I didn’t want to miss! Here, our family had a blast hiking on both the Lava Flow Trail (1 mile) and the Aa Flow trail (0.2 miles). We highly recommend both trails! Just imagine walking on a lava flow that cooled over 900 years ago. This is truly an incredible experience! 

Where is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument Located?

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is located 25 minutes north of Flagstaff, AZ and just over an hour south of Grand Canyon’s Desert View Watch Tower.

9. WUPATKI NATIONAL MONUMENT

In just a 20 minute drive north from Sunset Crater Volcano you can find the ancient pueblos of Wupatki. Ruins of these prehistoric villages dot the landscape today across an environment where food and water would seem impossible to find. And yet 900 years ago populations here used to thrive.

The Wupatki Pueblo (shown above) is the largest of the pueblos found at this national monument. Here, there are about 100 rooms in ruins that you can walk around. 

Our family really enjoyed seeing this ancient pueblo and imagining what life must have been like to live here. But it’s actually not the ruins that impressed us the most about this site, even though the ruins themselves are pretty cool. What impressed us the most is found along the bottom of the trail, just past these ruins. This trail will take you to their ancient ball court. And here you will find  “the blowhole.”  

“The Blowhole” is a fascinating geological feature. Here, cold air naturally flies out of the Earth through a small opening. The ancient Native Americans used this natural phenomenon to their advantage. They built a small structure around it and basically created an outdoor air conditioner! We were ecstatic to feel this blast of continuously cold air! This air caused our hair to fly and cooled us off in the hot Arizona sun. It was an amazing experience and something you won’t want to miss!

Where is the Wupatki National Monument Located?

Wupatki National Monument is located just over 30 minutes north of Flagstaff, Arizona and right off US-89.  It is also just over 15 minutes north of Sunset Crater Volcano and about 50 minutes south of Grand Canyon’s Desert View Watch Tower.

10. GRAND CANYON NATIONAL  PARK

The impressive Grand Canyon National Park certainly needs no introduction. It alone is the reason why many people travel to Arizona and it’s not hard to see why. Witness millions of years of geologic history layered in bands across this magnificent canyon that is 277 river miles long, up to 18 miles wide and a mile deep. Here your senses will become overwhelmed from its immense size and breathtaking scenery. This truly is a spectacular place to visit!

Our family began our Grand Canyon Adventure on the east side of the South Rim at the Desert View Watch Tower , which has a fantastic view (and restrooms.) We then drove west, along the rim, and really enjoyed our scenic overlook stops at Navajo Point, Lipan and Grand View Point before reaching the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

The main area near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center has a ton of fantastic viewpoints to check out like Mather Point and Yavapai Point. We also chose to hike the Kaibab Trail to Ohh Ahh Point so that we could venture below the rim. This is 1.8 miles round trip and 671 feet down into the canyon. But this also means that it is a steep 671 feet back up. It was a tough journey back up but our 7 year old did great on it and the views were beyond spectacular!

Looking for an Incredible Experience?

Try the Popular 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon

OUR 7-DAY ITINERARY

From phoenix to the grand canyon.

• After we landed at 9:20am, we went to eat at Mat’s Big Breakfast , just 10 minutes from the airport. It was fantastic!
• Drive 1 hour 40 minutes to Montezuma Castle National Monument . (~30-45 minutes)
• Allowed 50 minutes to slowly drive the beautiful Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) to our hotel in Sedona. Sky Rock Inn of Sedona
• We ate an early dinner at the Hideway House . It’s just 5 minutes from the Sky Rock Inn of Sedona. They had really great salads and pizza.
• Sunset Hike on Doe Mountain Trail   (We allowed 2 hours to enjoy this trail, just make sure you allow plenty of time to hike down off the mountain before the sun fully sets.)
• We had a picnic breakfast while watching the sunrise. (There’s a Whole Foods next to the Sky Rock Inn where we picked up supplies the night before.)
• Hike at Bell Rock/ Courthouse Butte Loop (this trail took us 2 hours and 40 minutes. If you are short on time then just stop at Bell Rock and hike near there or skip it and you can see Bell Rock from a pullout along the road itself.)
• Pink Jeep 2 hour Tour – Broken Arrow Trail
• We had an AMAZING early dinner at Picazzo’s Healthy Italien Kitchen. The pizza was absolutely incredible!
• Early Evening/Sunset hike at Fay Canyon.  (We hiked for 1 hour and 45 minutes)
• We grabbed fast food for lunch as we passed through Flagstaff.
• And we picked up Subway Sandwiches to have a picnic dinner overlooking the Painted Desert later that night. (We use this wonderful IceMule cooler bag to keep food cold for all 5 of us when we travel. We love it!)
• Please note that this park may close before sunset so check the closing time before you go.
• We spent 3.5 hours at Petrified Forest/ Painted Desert.
• We stayed at the Best Western Arizonian Inn, just 20 minutes down the road and enjoyed our stay there.
• We spent 1.5 hours here, but we spent a lot of time with the hands on interactions in their museum with our kids.
• (We didn’t have time on this specific trip but you could also stop at Walnut Canyon on the way. It’s 40 minutes west of Meteor Crater, on the east side of Flagstaff.)
• We ate lunch in Cameron, AZ but the restaurant we ate at is closed now. There are very few choices out in this area but the Cameron Trading Post near here is ranked well.
• Drive 50 minutes to Desert View Watchtower. You’ll enter at the Grand Canyon East Entrance shortly before you get to the Watchtower.
• Drive along Desert View Drive to the Grand Canyon National Park Visitor Center .
• 1.8 miles and about 2 hours to hike for our family.
• From Mather Point and Yavapai Point we watched the sun set with beautiful colors bursting from the canyon walls.
• We stayed the night in the Grand Canyon Village at the Maswik Lodge and really enjoyed it. They have a food court here too if you’re looking for something quick to eat.
•  Watched the sunrise over the Grand Canyon at Yavapai Point.
• We continued on toward Las Vegas to continue our trip. This drive is about 4 hours and 30 minutes.
• You could easily return back to Phoenix to fly out. This is a 3 hours and 30 minute drive.
• If you needed to, you could fly out this evening if you only had 5 days.
• If you have more time, then you could alter this schedule and spend more time in Flagstaff, Phoenix or at the Grand Canyon itself.

POPULAR TOURS IN ARIZONA

Phoenix, az to grand canyon.

This 5 day itinerary of Phoenix, AZ to Grand Canyon National Park was our own family’s itinerary when traveling between these two destinations and for us, it was amazing!

I realize that this schedule may be too fast-paced for some people, but this is how we enjoy traveling. We try to make every moment count and see as much as we can with limited vacation time. So please just look at this as a suggestion of one way to see these incredible sites.

I hope you found this information helpful in your planning and that you even discovered several sites that you would like to visit on the way to Grand Canyon National Park from Phoenix, AZ.

Have a Great Trip with Your Traveling Feet!

If You Found This Post Helpful, Please Share / Pin It

Related Posts:

• 15 Top Things to Do in New Mexico with Kids
• 10 Fantastic Road Trip Toys (Non-Electronic)

Traveling with Kids & Looking for Great Books?

• 100 Fantastic American History Books for Kids (Elementary to Tweens)
• 15 Best Travel & Adventure Series for Kids (Elementary to Tweens)
• 20+ Must-Read Fantasy Books Series for Tweens

10 Traveling Feet is a participant of Amazon Associates which means means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I will only recommend products that I have found useful and have loved using with my family. Thank you for your support.

Welcome to 10 Traveling Feet! My name is Jenny and we are a family of five that loves to explore & learn about our incredible world! Discover our favorite sites, top hikes, fantastic hidden gems and helpful travel tips for Your Next Adventure! Let's Find Your "Traveling Feet!"

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

The Ultimate Road Trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

Are you seeking a unique adventure on your next Phoenix trip? A little road trip to the Grand Canyon is a fantastic addition to any Phoenix vacation!

Only 230 miles from Phoenix and 280 miles from Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon is where you can experience mother nature in all its desert glory. The drive to the Canyon is a picturesque journey, peppered with breathtaking cacti and desert views that morph into sanctuaries of pine forests and red terrain.

It takes 3-4 hours of driving time to reach the Grand Canyon from Phoenix on a good day; traffic and the weather can make it longer. You can turn the four-hour drive into 2.5 or 3 if you bypass the Red Rock Scenic Byway. However, we don’t recommend this because you would miss out on some of the ride’s most stunning sights.

Instead of cramming the journey in one day, break it up over two to three days. Our road trip itinerary will guide you through the best spots on the route, with an overnight stopover in the mystical Sedona.

All settled in your Arizona rental ? Perfect.

Let’s plan your perfect Grand Canyon road trip!

SOURCE: Google Maps

Best Places to Stop Along the Way

Rather than driving straight to the Grand Canyon National Park on a day trip, make it a two-day escapade. Follow our guide and tick off bucket-list-worthy places along the way.

Sedona sits approximately midway between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon. We suggest splitting your road trip into two days with a night of rest in one of our luxury rentals in Sedona .

1. Arcosanti

Photo Credit: commons.wikimedia.org

From Phoenix, follow the I-17 N to Arcosanti Rd. Stop for an hour and wander around Arcosanti, an experimental town in Yavapai County, Arizona.

This urban lab fuses ideologies of architecture with ecology (arcology). People of Arcosanti work towards environmental welfare, innovation, and community building.

Since its conception in 1970 by architect Paolo Soleri, 7,000 volunteers have worked tirelessly to build this utopia’s structures. Some people live and work here full-time, while visitors come to admire art and learn about life in Arcosanti.

Arcosanti generates most of its revenue from selling Arizona-famous bronze bells.

• Notable features: Experimental town; architectural beauty; famous hand-cast bells
• Time & Distance from Phoenix: 1 hr, 70 miles

2. Prescott, Arizona

Photo Credit: Mike McBey via Flickr CC2.0

Less than an hour from Arcosanti is Prescott, a place frozen in time. Prescott, one of Arizona’s smallest towns, takes great pride in its cowboy culture. Its “Wild Wild West” vibe is evident from its swinging tavern doors, store signage, and old-school saloons. In fact, Prescott’s intriguing saloons date back to the Gold Rush period.

The town prohibits commercial development around its immediate proximity. The vast expanse of space around Prescott only adds to its retro feel.

Take a walk around the historic downtown before heading to Whisky Row street. Are you the designated driver? Maybe skip the tempting bars. Instead, stop by the Ian Russell Gallery of Fine Art. Before leaving, grab a bite at the legendary Palace Restaurant and Saloon.

End your time in Prescott with a walk inside the Museum of Indigenous People. It houses fascinating relics belonging to the indigenous tribes of the region.

• Notable sites: Vintage Saloons, Museums, Bars, and iconic Palace Restaurant
• Time & Distance from Phoenix: 1.5-2.5 hrs, 100 miles

3. Jerome, Arizona

Jerome, the “Wickedest Town in the West,” is now predominantly vacant with less than 500 residents. Many of them are artists who moved here from bigger cities for solitude and inspiration. It’s considered a ghost town because of its small population and the many apparition incidents.

Stretch your legs and take a walk around the historic center of this former mining town. Art lovers will particularly enjoy gallery hopping. Zen Mountain Gallery, Raku Gallery, and the Artist Coop are worth visiting.

Where to Eat in Jerome

The town’s history and folklore inspire the eateries. Just want takeaway for the road? Pick up breakfast quesadillas, egg sandwiches, and coffee at Flatiron .

For a delightful sit-down lunch, go to the Haunted Hamburger . Besides juicy hamburgers, the restaurant is famous for its supernatural history. Snap a few pictures while you’re there; if you’re (un)lucky, you may glimpse the ghostly woman supposedly haunting the restaurant.

And if you’re a skeptic? The stunning sight of Verde Valley serves as a lovely background as you gobble on your burger. You’ll feel relaxed and ready to get back on the road.

• Notable sites: Art Galleries, Wineries, Restaurants Flatiron & Haunted Hamburger
• Time & Distance from Phoenix: 1.5-2.5 hrs, 111 miles

4. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Established in 1906, the iconic Montezuma Castle is a monument of significance in Arizona’s Native American heritage. This castle, carved inside a limestone cliff, comprises multiple cave dwellings.

Today, it serves as a reminder of the trials and tribulations faced by the Sinagua people who lived in the arid Arizonian land.

During its discovery in the 19th century, the Europeans mistook the castle to be the home of the Aztecs. So they named it Montezuma after the famed Aztec king.

Park your car and follow the short paved path to get a closer look at the dwellings. It will take about 45 minutes to stroll to it unless you stop to admire the gorgeous sycamore trees.

• Notable sites: Ancient monument; home of Sinagua people
• Time & Distance from Phoenix: 1.5 hrs, 93 miles

Photo Credit: JacobLoyacano

Sedona is Arizona’s second most visited destination — preceded only by the Grand Canyon in popularity. Recently, the town has gained global attention and become a mecca of all things New Age.

With its red rock landscapes, supposedly healing vortexes, and delectable eateries, Sedona is the perfect town to spend a night or two in.

The spectacular sights of dark green scenery and red rock formations juxtaposed with the backdrop of blue skies evoke magical intrigue. No wonder millions of tourists flock here annually.

Seek Spirituality in Sedona

Spiritually inclined visitors will immediately fall in love with Sedona. Indulge in morning yoga, therapeutic massages, and chakra balancing exercises. It’s one of the few places in the USA where you can take a picture of your aura.

The reason for this spiritual explosion is due to the presence of several electromagnetic energy “vortex sites.” The famous ones are Boynton Canyon, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, and Bell Rock. Stop by at least one of them to experience uplifting healing energy.

If the metaphysical plane isn’t up your alley, spend your time shopping in Uptown Sedona. There are boutique stores, souvenir shops, and a plethora of restaurants.

In the mood for some heavenly Mexican food? Get a table at Tii Gavo or Elote Cafe. For a more romantic affair, Cress on Oak Creek is ideal.

Remember to look up at the starry sky as you make your way to your luxury rentals to turn in for the night.

• Notable sites: Red Rocks of Sedona, Vortex Tours, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, Crystal shops, Elote Cafe
• Time & Distance from Phoenix: 2 – 2.5 hrs, 116 miles

6. Flagstaff, Arizona

Photo Credit: canadastock

After basking in the healing energies of Sedona overnight, kickstart the second half of your trip to the Grand Canyon early in the morning. In less than an hour, you’ll reach Flagstaff.

Visitors escape to this mountain town to unwind while students come from all over the nation to study at Northern Arizona University. You will know you entered Flagstaff when the temperatures drop to a breezy cool. Bid goodbye to the cacti green of the desert and navigate your way to the town’s center through a pathway of tall ponderosa pines.

This hip college town with dense nature is full of opportunities for hiking, biking, exploring, and even skiing in the winter. Glimpse into this culturally rich town’s history by spending an hour at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Where to Eat in Flagstaff

Recently, Flagstaff has seen an influx of world-class restaurants with varied cuisines ranging from American diner food to special ethnic meals. The tantalizing food at Criollo Latin Kitchen is a direct portal to Latin America. We recommend poblano cheddar grits, sweet ancho chili sausage gravy, or huevos motuleños for a hearty lunch.

The bustling historic Route 66 downtown gets a neon makeover during the evenings. So if you’re there during twilight hours, follow the pink neon glow of the food trucks. They serve a variety of yummy items like burgers, fries, and tacos.

• Notable sites: Hip college town and foodie haven full of pine forests.
• Time & Distance from Phoenix: 2-2.5 hrs, 144 miles

7. Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monument

The last leg of your trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon has two stops at monuments on the outskirts of Flagstaff.

Sunset Crater

30 mins from Flagstaff lies the Sunset Crater National Monument. It’s an otherworldly cinder cone formed from volcanic eruptions 900 years ago.

How often can you say that you’ve been to the same place as astronauts from the Apollo mission? Sunset Crater’s alien terrain is where they trained before heading off to explore outer space.

Make your way to the visitor center and grab a trail map. We recommend an easy hikers’ walk to the Cinder Hills Overlook for panoramic viewpoints.

Wupatki National Monument

Photo Credit: Al_HikesAZ via Flickr CC2.0

Sitting on US-89, 20 mins from the Sunset Crater, is Wupatki National Monument. This historically significant monument houses Native American ruins discovered in the desert. Any history buffs in your entourage? Those interested in ancient civilizations will particularly enjoy visiting this structure. Ancestors of present-day Zuni and Hopi people created the Wupatki Pueblos.

The monument consists of seven pueblos made up of limestone and sandstone. Explore them via four easy hiking trails, each about 0.5 miles roundtrip. Make sure you read the signs on the trails, revealing the stories of the Sinagua and Anasazi communities.

• Time & Distance from Phoenix: 2-3 hrs

8. Grand Canyon

Congrats! You made it to one of the Seven Natural Wonders on planet earth. Start your exploration from the Grand Canyon visitor center on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

And if you have a few dollars to splurge? Take a canyon helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of the marvelous terrain.

What to Pack

• Pack a mix of healthy and sweet snacks. Pretzels, string cheese, baby carrots, nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate bars are tasty road trip treats. Remember to pack water bottles and other refreshing drinks for you and your companions.
• Create a stellar playlist. A road trip with stunning cinematic vistas is incomplete without background beats. So queue some Desert Tunes as you cruise along the stretches of the open road.
• Remember your camera! This drive has superb photo opportunities. You might be lucky enough to see a herd of wild horses as you drive around Sedona.

Alternative Ways to Reach the Grand Canyon from Phoenix

If you desire complete flexibility, a car’s your best bet. Still, you have other options to reach your destination:

Shuttle Bus

Photo Credit: Grand Canyon National Park

Take the Groome Shuttle Bus from the Phoenix Sky Harbour Airport. It departs Phoenix airport at 10:30 am and gets to Flagstaff by about 2 pm. The company can arrange a customized connecting transfer from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon.

Greyhound Bus

You could travel to the Grand Canyon on a Greyhound bus for as little as $30. Take the bus from Glendale at 11:40 am. It will drop you off at Flagstaff at approximately 1:30 pm. Then, take a shuttle bus and arrive at the Grand Canyon by 5:45 pm.

Photo Credit: Bilanol

Take a flight from Phoenix heading to Flagstaff in the morning. Afterward, you could either take the shuttle bus to the Grand Canyon or rent a car and drive the rest of the way.

Get ready to fall in love with Arizona as you explore some of the best places in the region.

Need a place to stay? We’ll add even more “wow” to your experience with one of our luxury rentals . Hello, glamour with world-class amenities!

Relish Phoenix, Arizona, with a rental that feels like paradise.

bellapalazzo

• Bars and Restaurants
• Local Activity Guide
• Things to do
• Destination Info
• Travel Tips

RECENT POSTS

• PRIVACY POLICY
• SEARCH RENTALS
• BELLA DESIGN
• DAMAGE POLICIES
• AZ REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

Get In Touch

Email: [email protected] Call Us: 480-725-8858

© 2024 Bella Palazzo. All rights reserved.

• REAL ESTATE
• TRAVEL INSURANCE
• 480-725-8858

Phoenix To The Grand Canyon: A Road Trip Itinerary

A road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon may look short and easy, but there is plenty to see and do on this unique Arizona route.

• Plan for 3-5 days to fully explore Phoenix, Grand Canyon, and scenic stops in between for the ultimate road trip experience.
• Spend a day enjoying Phoenix's activities before hitting the road, from shopping on High Street to fine dining experiences.
• Take time to explore between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon to discover red rock formations and scenic spots like Sedona and Flagstaff.

Road trips are a favorite travel experience in the US. With so many large stretches of wide open spaces to enjoy, road trips are a popular option to see the hidden gems of America's backcountry.

While there are many exciting cross-country road trip routes to explore, some of the best road trips in the US are also some of the shortest. The drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, for instance, takes just three and a half hours straight through. Driving at such a pace, however, means missing out on some of the other popular Arizona attractions that are right along the way.

18 Scenic Drives Near Phoenix, Arizona

Both Phoenix and the Grand Canyon are scenic landmarks on many Arizona road trip routes that need to be given plenty of time to explore.

Smaller-scale destinations between the two promise equally exciting opportunities. With so much to see and do along the way, it's no wonder this afternoon drive is worthy of a true road trip experience.

How Long To Take On A Road Trip From Phoenix To The Grand Canyon

Plan three to five days to fully explore phoenix, the grand canyon, and the stops in between.

On paper, the drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is a simple one. Following I-17 North for the majority of the trip, the total distance between the two is just 224 miles. This smaller distance makes it much more realistic to enjoy spontaneous stops along the way or schedule some time in several of the smaller towns along I-17.

• Distance from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: 224–237 miles
• Straight-through Time to Drive: 3.5–4.5 hours
• Ideal Road Trip Time: 3–5 days

Scenic, But Underrated: Why The Drive From Phoenix To The Grand Canyon Is Worth It

For avid road trip travelers, however, it is clear that what can be seen on paper doesn't always reflect reality. To truly appreciate this stretch of the Arizona desert, travelers should plan to give themselves a minimum of three days, more if they want to try some of the longer hiking trails in Grand Canyon National Park and at stops along the way.

So where is all that time being spent? Phoenix and the Grand Canyon are two of the biggest destinations in Arizona, and any road trip itinerary should leave at least a day for each of these locations. A day or two in between for driving and exploration, and suddenly three hours become three days of Arizona exploration.

What To Do In Phoenix On A Road Trip

Phoenix has plenty of activities to enjoy before officially hitting the road.

While it may seem unusual to take a stop on a road trip before officially beginning, a destination like Phoenix is well worth the time. Phoenix is one of the best vacation spots in the US that won't break the bank , making it an ideal starting point for plenty of adventures, including a road trip to the Grand Canyon.

Guests can easily spend the day exploring the many things to do in Phoenix , from shopping on the High Street to dining at one of the many splurge-worthy fine dining experiences of Phoenix . In the evening, if setting out on the road seems too much, accommodations in Phoenix average just $126 a night , making it affordable for even the strictest road trip budgets.

• Things to Do in Phoenix: High Street, Fine Dining, Desert Botanical Garden , Phoenix Zoo , Heard Museum , Papago Park
• Ideal Time Spent in Phoenix: ~1 day

10 Affordable And Distinctive Phoenix Hotels For An Authentic Arizona Getaway

Major stops to include between phoenix and the grand canyon, travelers should give themselves one or two to explore the stops between phoenix and the grand canyon.

While the Grand Canyon may be the main event on this Phoenix road trip, Arizona is full of unusual red rock formations, many of which are protected by national monuments and state parks. In particular, Walnut Canyon National Monument and Montezuma Castle National Monument highlight some of the dramatic natural structures in this part of Arizona.

• Things to Do between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon: Chapel of the Holy Cross , Railway & Hotel , Cathedral Rock , Walnut Canyon National Monument, Montezuma Castle National Monument, Sunset Crater , Sedona, Tlaquepaque Village, Flagstaff
• Ideal Time Spent Between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon: 1–2 days

Sedona is also right along the route between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon and is equally full of scenic hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and exciting in-city activities. Many of the best things to do in Sedona include exploring the rough terrain around the city, but for those who want a change of scenery, the Mexican-inspired Tlaquepaque village is perfect for a day of shopping and fine dining.

As Sedona is just 100 miles from the Grand Canyon itself, travelers can opt to either continue on their way or spend the night in this popular desert town.

• Distance from Phoenix to Sedona: 116 miles
• Time to Drive: ~2 hours

Another popular town that makes a perfect road trip stop between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon is Flagstaff. Sitting at a slightly higher elevation, this city is a great opportunity to enjoy some more alpine-style scenery, all while also taking advantage of even more great places to eat and shop.

• Distance from Phoenix to Flagstaff: 144 miles
• Time to Drive: ~2.5 hours

What To Do In Grand Canyon National Park On A Road Trip

Save one or two days for scenic drives and unique hiking at grand canyon national park.

While there are plenty of canyons besides the Grand Canyon to visit in Arizona , there is nothing quite like standing on the edge of this giant. For those planning to stick to some of the best Grand Canyon hikes for beginners , a single day is likely enough to catch the highlights of the park.

More experienced backpackers, however, may want to leave themselves two or three days to spend a night in the canyon itself.

If road trippers aren't too tired of the car just yet, Grand Canyon National Park also has several scenic drives with unique overlooks. These are a great option for those who are limited on time at the tail end of this scenic Arizona Road trip.

The drive between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon may seem uneventful and short, but the variety of things to enjoy at both locations and at the various stops along the way proves that this is a true road trip adventure.

A day in Phoenix, one to two days on the road, and another day or two in Grand Canyon National Park, and this three-hour drive quickly becomes a scenic Arizona road trip.

Phoenix to Grand Canyon Ultimate Road Trip Guide

• by Danika Clark
• March 7, 2022

A classic all-American road trip. Posting 2.9 MILLION visitors in 2020, there is a reason everyone is visiting the Grand Canyon. Its close proximity to many cities makes it an easy and worthwhile place to visit. If you find yourself lucky enough to be in Phoenix , this Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip is one filled with adventure.

I have had the luxury of taking this awe-inspiring road trip twice and when I say it is one of my favorites, I really mean it. Maybe it’s because of the stark desert contrast from the Florida greens and rain. 

Either way, I LOVE this road trip and I think it is a fantastic way to spend a couple of days when you are in the area. 

As one of the most popular and picturesque national parks, it definitely is a tourist trap but also a wonder of the world! Stretch this 3-hour journey one way into a weekend or week-long trip to truly enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon and the many stops along the way.

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon road trip is a quintessentially American classic road trip so today I will be taking you through where to fly into, the best pit stops along the way, my favorite Grand Canyon views (and secrets!), and how long you should plan to spend on this trip!

In addition, I also threw in an itinerary!

Phoenix/ Phoenix Airport

Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) is the largest airport in Phoenix and all of Arizona. Additionally, this airport is a hub for American Airlines and also serves as a base for Southwest airlines, but all major carriers fly into PHX.

For this road trip, you will need a car. There really is no efficient way to get around out west without a car. Of course, there are greyhound busses and such, but using these you are doing yourself a disservice as you will miss so many hidden gems and beautiful stops along the way.

Besides having a huge airport, Phoenix offers plenty to do for visitors! A nice city, good food scene, and great nature.

Things to do:

Hike Camelback Mountain

Explore Boujee Scottsdale

Check out the Phoenix Zoo

Where To Stop from Phoenix to Grand Canyon?

A hyped-up town just north of Phoenix, Sedona is a BEAUTIFUL red rock canyon with a lovely vintage charm. Lots of fun thrift stores, the famous blue-arched McDonalds, world-class hiking, and a small church perched high on the rocks.

There is so much to do in Sedona it is more than just a stop through town, it is a destination.

So,if you are planning on road-tripping from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon add in a full day (at least!) to see beautiful Sedona.

Sedona lives up to its high praise.

Slide Rock State Park

A super fun stop just north of Sedona is Slide Rock State Park!

Bring your own towel and sunscreen and enjoy nature’s paradise. This state park is packed with cliff jumping, hiking, swimming, and a natural waterslide formed out of red rocks!

Slide Rock State Park is a super fun stop for people of all ages, and a way to relax in nature on your way up to the Grand Canyon.

Sitting at almost 7,000 ft, Flagstaff is one unique city in Arizona. Hosting a Ski Resort, beautiful mountain hikes, and Route 66 Flagstaff is loaded with things to do.

It is also the largest city close to the grand canyon to stock up on any last-minute items before you hit the Grand Canyon.

Coconino National Forest

Looking to add to your National Park count? Hit the Coconino National Forest on your way up. Although there are lots of beautiful cities and scenery on this drive, this is only a spot I would visit if I had lots of extra time on my trip!

This diverse National Forest hosts the Red Rocks of Sedona to pine forests to alpine tundra. It also has a beautiful waterfall (fossil creek waterfall) and a scenic drive.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Just off the highway, you will find Montezuma Castle National Monument.

This cliff-dwelling castle is commonly referred to as one of Arizona’s best-preserved. Sinagua natives built this between 1100 and 1425 AD. 

Montezuma’s Castle is an impressive look at history and definitely worth the stop.

Before I visited I had never heard of this before, but afterward, it became one of my favorite spots on the trip! 

This quick pit stop shouldn’t take you more than 2 hours at best. There is a visitors center with lots of information.

Do not miss Montezuma Castle National Monument.

Just a 40-minute drive west of Sedona you will enter Jerome, a charming mining town from the late 19th century. 

This is another stop to visit if you find yourself with extra time. Although it is charming and well worth the drive, it is far off the main highway and takes time away from the Grand Canyon and other stops.

While in Jerome, get spooky and creeped out with a ghost tour, visit the Gold King Mine Museum, or drive around and see all the quirky mining tools remaining.

This ghost town really feeds into its historic past, and because of that it is well preserved and an adventure to visit.

Grand Canyon Guide: Phoenix to Grand Canyon

The drive to the Grand Canyon is on a two-lane highway with few amenities along the way. Be sure you are stocked up on the essentials before you arrive.

What to Expect at the Visitors Center/ Grand Canyon Village

The South Rim Visitors Center, in my opinion, is the nicest visitor center of them all. Additionally, all the rims in this section are railed off making them much safer and adding peace of mind.

The visitors center is home to the park rangers. I always recommend stopping here first on any trip to a National Park! 

Here is where you will find the most up-to-date information on trails and things to do. The visitors center is a great spot to get your bearings and explore exhibits.

Grand Canyon Village is a 2-mile drive down the road from the visitor center. This area is home to many hotels, gift shops, and a convenience store. It also has additional viewpoints of the canyon.

This is the most popular rim of the Grand Canyon, so expect crowds. BUT the way to avoid the crowds is to walk about a mile in any direction. 

Many visitors do not leave the main visitors center area, so just walking an extra 10-20 minutes makes all the difference.

Mather Campground/Hotels

Mather Campground is AMAZING. I booked a 1-night tent site when I visited, but unfortunately, we got snowed out and the campground closed on us. We did get refunded, but man I wish I had that experience. 

Mather Campground sells out early, so book in advance. Located right on the edge of the Grand Canyon, this epic campsite is a great way to experience all the beauty 24/7.

Any hotel inside of the park will come with an expensive price tag, but the convenience can be worth it. These also can sell out, so be sure to plan in advance.

The most affordable hotel accommodations will be in Flagstaff, 1.5 hours south of the Visitors Center.

How Long to Spend and Itinerary for Phoenix to Grand Canyon

Ideally, one week is the minimum to see everything along the way! Give yourself more than a week to have time to see Jerome and Flagstaff a bit more.

If needed, this trip could be done on a weekend as well.

Week-Long Itinerary from Phoenix to Grand Canyon

Fly into Phoenix/ Phoenix – Day 1

Phoenix to Sedona (2 hr 15 min) – Day 2

Sedona/ Slide Rock State park – Day 3

Sedona/ Stop in Flagstaff for Lunch/ Grand Canyon – Day 4

Visit Grand Canyon Visitors Center- Day 5

Hike Grand Canyon – Day 6

Grand Canyon to Phoenix (Montezuma/ Jerome stops) – Day 7

Fly Home – Day 8

Weened Itinerary from Phoenix to Grand Canyon

Friday – Fly into Phoenix/ Drive to GC

Saturday – GC 

Sunday – GC – Sedona – Phoenix (red-eye flight home)

And there you have it! My ultimate Phoenix to the Grand Canyon road trip!

I’m Danika! A travel obsessed, Disney adult, with a knack for budgeting.

In 2020 I was furlough from my “dream” job at Disney and have pursued my first love of travel ever since. I have traveled to 33 states and 28 countries spanning 5 continents.

follow me on social media

Get insider secrets, stories from the road, and my free packing list!

Read More About Post: Phoenix to Grand Canyon Ultimate Road Trip Guide

See all posts.

A backpackers rite of passage, the 2 day slow boat  to Luang Prabang is a bucket list item for some, and a long dreaded day

Best known for its scuba diving and snorkeling, but it’s also home to some of the best beaches in Thailand.   I had the opportunity

Located on the mighty Mekong river, Huay Xai is a small Laos town famous for the starting (and ending) point for the slow boat or

Soaring limestone cliffs and crystal clear by water is what you will find when googling pictures of Krabi. When planning your trip to Krabi 3

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Comments are manually moderated.

Come with me on my travels, as you plan yours

An Epic One Week Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip

This post might contain affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, if you buy through my site. I appreciate your support of my site.

The Grand Canyon is the second most visited national park in the USA! As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, you need to take a visit to this impressive canyon in Arizona at least once in your life. 

In addition to the Grand Canyon, Arizona has some other awesome cities, forests, national park service sites, restaurants, and attractions. Phoenix, Arizona is the perfect gateway to explore all that central Arizona has to offer. Follow my one week Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip to discover where to go, what to do, where to eat, and where to stay on your way to and from the Grand Canyon. 

A lot of hiking is included in this one week Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip, but you definitely don’t need to be a hiker to follow the itinerary. It is based on my own trip, but includes additional recommendations that I researched, but didn’t have time to include. With the additional ideas you can easily swap out places in each destination or extend this trip if you have more time. 

One Week Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip 

Day 1: Phoenix to Prescott

After arriving at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), rent a car from an airport rental car company or from Turo . Avoid renting from Krystyn on Turo. I love Turo, but had a very bad experience with this owner who runs a business with her husband. When using Turo choose a driver with only one car to ensure you are renting from a local host!

From the airport, drive about one hour and 40 minutes to Prescott. Prescott (pronounced press-kitt) is the former territorial capitol of Arizona. The old frontier town is full of history and there are many places to hike and kayak around the town. 

What to Do in Prescott

Sharlot Hall Museum

It was hard to choose which Prescott museum to visit, but I chose this historic open-air museum to learn more about the history of Prescott. Start your visit in the permanent galleries where you will explore the early history of the Prescott area and about Sharlot Hall, the founder of the museum. 

Then head outside to the historic buildings. The Sharlot Hall Building includes more exhibits on the history and early days of Prescott. Other buildings were built on site, moved from other locations, or are replicas of originals located in Arizona Territory. 

Museum of Indigenous People

Formerly the Smoki Museum, this museum focuses on the culture, history, and art of Native Americans from the area. 

Phippen Museum

Phippen Museum is home to a large collection of western art. 

Prescott Heritage Trail

Pick up a free map from the visitor center and follow the Prescott Heritage Trail. The self-guided walk takes about an hour and will bring you to different historical spots around the city with information plaques.

Courthouse Plaza & Whiskey Row

Whether you follow the Heritage Trail or not, you will want to take a walk around Courthouse Plaza and along Whiskey Row. It’s the heart of the town and home to many historic saloons from the wild west days. Early evening after the museums close and before dinner is the best time to walk around downtown. 

In between the saloons you’ll also find tourist gift shops, boutique shops, and art galleries. Stop into the Treat Center on Whiskey Row for some free popcorn samples! 

Behind Whiskey Row on Whiskey Row Alley you’ll find a couple of Prescott murals for good photo ops! 

Hiking and Kayaking

Prescott National Forest surrounds the town and provides ample opportunities for hiking. Thumb Butte and the Constellation Loop are popular choices. 

Watson Lake, Goldwater Lake, and Lynx Lake offer hiking as well as beautiful spots for water activities including kayaking. 

Prescott Frontier Days

If you time your visit right you’ll be lucky enough to attend the World’s Oldest Rodeo. I didn’t visit over the 4th of July weekend so I didn’t have the first hand experience, but I did learn about it at a temporary exhibit at Sharlot Hall. I can’t think of a better western experience to have! 

Where to Eat in Prescott

That Apple Pan 

This charming red and white apple themed restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch. You need to order something apple when at an apple centric restaurant. The apple-filled crepes are quite sweet, but the apple pancakes are perfect. The portion is quite large too. 

The County Seat

The County Seat is another favorite local spot for breakfast and lunch. 

Bistro St Michael 

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, Bistro St. Michael serves American fare. 

Palace Restaurant 

I take Yelp reviews pretty seriously so I was a little skeptical about the 3.5 star rating. As the Palace Restaurant and Saloon is from the 1870s it is the most historic saloon still running in Arizona. My curiosity won out and I was quite happy it did. 

We had excellent service and I loved the historic atmosphere and servers in classic saloon outfits. The fiesta fish tacos were tasty as well.  

El Gato Azul

With outdoor seating and live music some nights, this cute tapas place is a top choice in Prescott. 

Limoncello Pizzeria

I considered this casual pizza and pasta spot, but knew that I would be having Italian later in my Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip. 

Where to Stay in Prescott

We stayed at the Hampton Inn . About a 10 minute drive to downtown Prescott it was handy, but cheaper than staying downtown. The hotel has been renovated and offers clean and quiet accommodations with a free breakfast and an indoor pool. It was my favorite hotel breakfast of the trip! My only complaint was that the clanky AC was rather loud. 

Other top rated places to stay in Prescott include: 

• Hassayampa Inn : A historic Inn right downtown. 
• Prescott Resort & Conference Center : Offers mountain view rooms. 
• Sheldon Street Lodge : Budget friendly accommodations only a couple blocks from Courthouse Plaza. 

Day 2: Prescott to Grand Canyon South Rim 

Prescott to williams.

The drive from Prescott to the south entrance of the Grand Canyon takes about 2 hours and 20 mins. Williams is conveniently located halfway in between. Williams is an original route 66 town and a perfect place for a pit stop. Drive right through the town on Route 66 and you’ll run into the murals and gift shops. 

If you want to cut back on driving, take the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams to the park. Not only will you be able to enjoy the scenery without focusing on the road, but you also don’t have to worry about parking at the Grand Canyon. At peak times there can be long lines to enter the park and a wait for a parking spot. Plus the retro train ride will keep you entertained with western cowboys and performers.

Visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim

Entrance Fee

Purchase an America the Beautiful annual pass for $80. This pass gives you unlimited access to all the national parks as well as all the other national lands including national monuments, national forests, and national historic sites. 

If you are following this Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip and planning to visit the national monuments mentioned later in the itinerary, it will definitely be worth it to buy the pass.

If not, 7 day passes for private vehicles are $35. They are valid for everyone in the vehicle. 

Shuttle Buses

The Grand Canyon has multiple free shuttles. Use the shuttles as transportation within the park and to visit all the scenic viewpoints with less walking. Check the current shuttle times on each route as they vary. Some very comical and informative drivers made taking the shuttles quite enjoyable! 

Blue Route : Year-round route that connects the visitor center at the entrance with Grand Canyon Village. 

Orange Route : Year-round route for access to Yaki Point, South Kaibab Trailhead , and Yavapai Point Geology Museum from the visitor center. 

Red Route : Seasonal route from March 1st to November 30th that runs from Grand Canyon Village to Hermit’s Rest. This road is only accessible by shuttle bus when the shuttle is in service. 

Purple Route : Seasonal route from Memorial Day to Labor Day with stops in the town of Tusayan to the visitor center at the entrance. 

Hikers Express Shuttle : Year-round shuttle that goes from Grand Canyon Village to the South Kaibab Trailhead . It only has early morning departures between 4am – 9am depending on the time of the year. 

Rim Trail (from East to West) 

Your first day at the Grand Canyon is the perfect time to get the lay of the land. The best way to do that is by walking the rim trail which runs from the South Kaibab Trail to Hermit’s Rest. The majority of the 13 mile trail is paved. 

Mather Point to the Yavapai Geology Museum is very crowded with a lot of people taking photos. Between Yavapai Geology Museum and Grand Canyon Village is the Trail of Time which has informational panels on the geological history of the Grand Canyon. There are quite a few people here, but not quite as many as before the museum. The crowds pick up again in Grand Canyon Village.

The last ~6 miles past Grand Canyon Village are on the red shuttle bus route. You can take the shuttle bus and get off at as many viewpoints as you would like. If you’re able to walk, I encourage you to walk as much as possible, because it seems like a hassle getting on and off the bus and then waiting for the next bus at every viewpoint. It’s also the least busiest part of the rim trail with dirt trails the last few miles. If I had to choose, I would pick Pima Point as my favorite viewpoint. 

We parked at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and walked from Mather Point to Monument Creek Vista. As our legs were tiring and sunset was approaching we took the shuttle bus for the final two stops and all the way back to Grand Canyon Village. 

Museums, Visitor Centers & Gift Shops (from east to west) 

As you walk along the rim trail make stops at the various museums, visitor centers, and gift shops. 

The South Rim Visitor Center at the entrance is not open daily year-round. Indoors is mostly the ranger station for people to ask questions, the national parks passport book stamping station, and a theater for the 20 minute movie. 

Yavapai Geology Museum has geology exhibits and a small gift shop. It can be reached by walking on the rim trail or by taking the orange shuttle. 

Grand Canyon Village is home to many gift shops, museums, and park accommodations. Verkamp’s visitor center has a gift shop and exhibits on the Verkamp’s family and the early days of the park. These exhibits focused more on the people aspect of the park’s history which I really enjoyed! 

The Hopi House sells Native American products made by locals. The Lookout Studio is a gift shop with an outdoor lookout, surprise surprise, in the back! Kolb Studio also has a gift shop, but my favorite part was the small exhibit downstairs about the Kolb brothers’ adventurous photography business. 

Where to Eat Near the Grand Canyon

There are many places to eat or pick up food within the park. National Parks are known for their beauty and awesome hiking trails, but unfortunately not for their food. Typically national park food is quite pricey and underwhelming. 

We brought food for the day while hiking. My day pack hiking list includes my go to hiking foods. For dinner we ate in Tusayan. 

Foodie’s Club

After a late night in the park watching the sunset we decided to try Foodie’s Club as it was one of the only restaurants open. The counter service spot serves burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and salads. My fierce hunger could have affected this, but I thought my wrap was really good. 

We Cook Pizza & Pasta

Bet you can’t guess what this restaurant serves? It’s also a counter service spot with custom pizzas, build your own pizzas, pasta dishes, and sandwiches. 

Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon

Like food, accommodations are always more expensive in national parks. I found Maswik Lodge to be one of the cheaper park accommodations. It is handy to stay in the park and not worry about driving or parking. If you wish to stay in the park make sure to book at least several months in advance for the best availability. Park accommodations are marked on the map above and you can find a full list here . 

Staying in Tusayan is a good alternative. Accommodations are much cheaper and it is a very short drive to the entrance. During busy periods you may have to wait an hour or two to get into the park though. There’s a webcam where you can check the traffic at the entrance. At the end of May (before Memorial Day weekend) the wait was very short. 

Holiday Inn Express in Tusayan provides nice accommodations with free parking and free breakfast. There’s also a pool and a hot tub to soak your legs after a long day of hiking. 

Other top rated places to stay near the Grand Canyon include: 

• Best Western Premier : Another good chain hotel in Tusayan with an indoor pool and hot tub. Rates are available with or without breakfast included. 
• Grand Canyon Inn & Motel : This basic motel is located in Valle. It has some of the cheapest rates near the park. It’s closer than Williams, but is still a bit of a drive to and from the park. There is hardly anything in the town for meals. Make sure you consider this if leaving the park after dark or wanting to arrive before sunrise. 
• There are many chain hotels in Williams , but it is usually over an hour one way to the park. 

Day 3: Grand Canyon South Rim 

If you are up for a challenge, hike into the canyon today. There are 4 trails on the south rim that go into the canyon: Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, Hermit Trail, and Grandview Trail. The first two are the most popular. 

Bright Angel is the most well known and the “easiest” as the elevation change is more gradual. They are all really challenging hikes and are not recommended to hike all the way to the bottom of the canyon and back up in one day. You can turn around at any point, but remember the way up on any of the trails is much harder! Check water availability at the trailheads before heading out and bring enough for your hike. 

South Kaibab Trail

My full guide to the South Kaibab Trail will prepare you for this strenuous, but exhilarating day hike into the canyon. 

For more things to do, places to eat, and accommodation choices around the south rim of the Grand Canyon see day two above. 

Day 4: Grand Canyon to Flagstaff 

This Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip takes you to so many distinct parts of Arizona. Flagstaff is the perfect example of that. From the Grand Canyon it will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Flagstaff. 

Home to Arizona’s tallest mountain, Flagstaff sits at a higher elevation and is surrounded by forests. 

What to Do Around Flagstaff

Did you know that Arizona and California both have 18 national monuments, more than any other state? With only one day in Flagstaff we chose to visit the national monuments around the city. They are all included on the America the Beautiful Annual pass . 

Walnut Canyon National Monument

This fascinating national monument includes a visitor center with exhibits and a film describing the history of Walnut Canyon. After watching the film and learning about these ancient cliff homes that Native Americans lived in hundreds of years ago you can see them for yourself by walking on the Island Trail. The one mile trail takes you into the canyon and up close to these amazing natural homes. Informational panels explain more about the people who lived here and their way of life. 

The rim trail is an easier .7 mile trail that overlooks the cliff dwellings below. Do both of the trails to get different perspectives. It’s a beautiful site to walk around in and explore. 

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

At Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument stop at the visitor center first to read the exhibits, watch the film, and receive recommendations from the rangers. 

Several trailheads will take you to the base of the volcano and through the lava fields. One starts at the visitor center, but most are a short drive from separate trailheads. 

It’s a really cool spot that connects well with Walnut Canyon National Monument as many people fled the area and established themselves in Walnut Canyon before the eruption hundreds of years ago. 

Wupatki National Monument 

Drive on the loop road for about 20 minutes farther to reach Wupatki National Monument. The full circle back to 89 where you turned off for Sunset Crater takes about 45 minutes to drive (not including the time spent at both national monuments). 

Wupatki National Monument was home to another community hundreds of years ago. Various trails take you to the different prehistoric pueblos.

What to Do in Flagstaff

With an extra day in Flagstaff or instead of visiting the national monuments nearby you can do some of the following activities in Flagstaff. 

Historic Downtown Flagstaff

Take a walk through historic downtown Flagstaff. Stop at the visitor center, browse the shops, and admire street art on the public art walking tour . 

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

This duplex home was built in 1904 for two brothers and their wives who were successful in the logging business in Flagstaff. Take a self-guided walk around the grounds or a guided tour inside of the mansion to learn more about the family and their role in Flagstaff’s history. 

Other Museums

Flagstaff is full of museums. Head to the Pioneer Museum – Arizona Historical Society, to learn more of Flagstaff’s history. The Fort Tuthill Military Museum focuses on the history of Arizona through different infantry regiments. The Museum of Northern Arizona is a natural history museum with a large focus on indigenous people from Arizona. 

Lowell Observatory

Tour one of the oldest observatories in the country. Learn about the astronomer who discovered Pluto and the research that has been done since on a separate Pluto tour.

Arizona Snowbowl

If visiting in the winter go skiing at the Arizona Snowbowl. In the summer take a scenic gondola ride. I can only imagine this would be beautiful.

Arizona is the perfect state if you love to hike. Within the Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff has abundant hiking opportunities. Avid hikers enjoy the San Francisco Peaks and climbing Humprey’s Peak. 

Where to Eat in Flagstaff

Over Easy is an Arizona chain that is known for breakfast. The Phoenix location was featured on Diners, Dives, and Drive Ins. The fresh squeezed orange juice was delicious and the huge, hearty portion of chicken and waffles filled me up for a day of hiking. 

Tourist Home Flagstaff Cafe

This is another highly rated choice for breakfast. 

Swaddee Thai Cuisine 

I’m a big fan of Asian cuisine and was looking forward to having more Asian restaurants as an option in Flagstaff. The restaurant lived up to my expectations and I enjoyed both the veggie rolls and the Pad Won Seen. The restaurant was quite busy and food took awhile to come out. 

Asia Station

We were also considering eating at this Asian restaurant with great reviews. 

MartAnne’s Burrito Palace

This colorful restaurant is known for the best Mexican food in Flagstaff. 

Satchmo’s is the place to go for BBQ in town. 

Where to Stay in Flagstaff

We stayed at the Courtyard , about 10 minutes from downtown. The modern hotel had very nice rooms. There is a gym and an indoor pool. Breakfast vouchers are given if you have platinum status or above. If you don’t or don’t want to use them, Over Easy is a short drive away. 

• Residence Inn : Located downtown, the hotel is very handy if you don’t have a car or if you want to walk around downtown. 
• Highland Country Inn : A budget motel with basic accommodations near downtown. 
• Comfort Inn : Located a 10 minute drive from downtown, this chain motel has breakfast included as well as an outdoor pool.

Day 5: Flagstaff to Sedona

Only about 45 minutes south of Flagstaff is Sedona, another city you need to include on your Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip. Despite the short distance, Sedona’s scenery is vastly different from Flagstaff’s. Red rock formations will slowly take the place of all the ponderosa pines. 

Sedona is known as a spiritual wellness destination with vortex sites believed to generate energy and spiritual connections. 

What to Do in Sedona

Cathedral Rock Hike 

Hiking is one of the top things to do in Sedona. Cathedral Rock is an excellent hike to see the red rock scenery of Sedona and also hike to one of the most powerful vortex sites. 

The 1.2 mile out and back hike is fairly short, but involves steep sections and some rock scrambling to reach the top. I thought it was a lot of fun and the views at the top were worth the effort! 

There are restrooms at the trailhead. Parking is closed when the Sedona Shuttle is in operation. The free shuttle (route #15) picks up at the SR 179 Park & Ride. The shuttle schedule varies throughout the year. 

Little Horse Hike

The same shuttle (#15) that goes to Cathedral Rock also goes to Little Horse. Our original plan was to hike Cathedral Rock and then take the shuttle to Little Horse. We thought it would save time to go to another hike on the same shuttle bus then return to the park and ride and find an alternative hike. 

Once we finished Cathedral Rock instead of going all the way back to the trailhead we walked on Templeton Trail. The trail connected with other trails that would lead us to the Little Horse trail eventually……or so we thought! It does look connected, but we must have missed the trail junction as we ended up taking Easy Breezy Trail back to the Cathedral Rock trailhead. 

The fairly flat Templeton and Easy Breezy trail sections we hiked had hardly any other hikers. There isn’t a lot of shade. During summer afternoons the hike is very hot! 

More Sedona Hikes 

There are way too many Sedona hikes to list. The following are some of the other hikes I researched and wanted to include if time allowed. 

Bell Rock Pathway & Courthouse Butte are popular hikes and vortex sites. Airport Mesa is also a vortex site. It isn’t known for a particular rock formation, but it provides an awesome vantage point to several other famous viewpoints. 

Shuttle #14 will take you to Soldier Pass. The hike will lead you to the Seven Sacred Pools and Soldier Pass cave. 

Devil’s Bridge can be reached by the Mescal trailhead. Shuttle #11 provides transportation to this trailhead. Devil’s Bridge itself is a cool photo spot if you don’t mind the steep drop-off! 

A yoga vortex hiking day is a really cool way to combine hiking and yoga, the best of what Sedona offers. It even includes a chocolate walking mediation!

Sedona Jeep Tour

Another way to experience the red rocks of Sedona is on an off-road jeep tour .

Arizona State Parks

Slide Rock State Park is on the way to Sedona from Flagstaff. Red Rock State Park is southwest of the city. Both parks have numerous trails and other outdoor activities. 

Sedona Heritage Museum

The museum covers the history of Sedona with three historic buildings. The museum offers a close look at the early settlers of Sedona and what their lives were like. 

Tlaquepaque Art & Crafts Village

The village with restaurants, art galleries, and shops is a good pace to get a taste of the best of Sedona. It’s a lovely area to wander around in. 

Where to Eat in Sedona

Saltrock kitchen.

You definitely want a meal with a view when in Sedona. SaltRock is perfect for views outside in the courtyard. The southwest restaurant isn’t quite fine dining, but it is upscale. 

Only valet parking is available directly in front of the restaurant, but you can easily park a few minutes away in the lot for free. The tiger shrimp tamale was recommended, but I enjoyed the flavors in the salmon. 

Everyone recommends Mariposa for fine dining. The Latin America restaurant often books well in advance. 

Hideaway House

With three outdoor patios Hideaway House also provides great views, but in a much more casual atmosphere. 

Wildflower 

Wildflower is a healthy, counter service Arizona chain. It reminds me of Panera Bread, but with a southwest flare. It has outdoor seating around a fountain and an outdoor patio with some views. 

The Sedona location is within a nice outdoor mall with shops. Plaques throughout the space tell little snippets of Sedona’s history. 

Where to Stay in Sedona

We actually stayed in Cottonwood, about a 30 minute drive away. The cheaper accommodations made the extra drive worth it. Plus we stayed at the Best Western where we were upgraded to a cute, little king suite casita! 

Check for more accommodations in Cottonwood . 

Top rated places to stay in Sedona:

• Sedona Pines Resort : Cottage accommodations with full kitchens on the western side of Sedona.  
• Element Sedona : Upscale accommodations with breakfast and an outdoor pool in the Village of Oak Creek (south Sedona). 
• Matterhorn Inn : With a prime location in Sedona’s uptown district, the inn is walking distance to many restaurants and shops. 

Day 6: Sedona to Phoenix

The drive back to Phoenix is about two hours. Once in Phoenix you can return your rental car. It will be easier to get around Phoenix with a car, but I had no problems using the public transportation to reach all of the places I included below. Make sure to plan your transit times ahead of time as service isn’t that frequent. 

On the Way Back to Phoenix: Montezuma Well & Montezuma Castle National Monument

Break up the drive and make a stop at another national monument on your way back to Phoenix. 

Coming from Sedona you’ll want to stop at Montezuma Well first. Part of Montezuma Castle National Monument, the separate site has trails where you can see and learn about the prehistoric people who lived here. 

Further south at Montezuma Castle National Monument, outdoor paths lead you to the preserved apartment in a limestone cliff. The visitor center with exhibits explains more about the history of the site. 

Things to Do in Phoenix

You can easily spend a week in Phoenix, which I did on a separate visit. My guides on things to do in Phoenix and things to do in Scottsdale will keep you busy regardless of how much time you have in Arizona’s capital city and metro area! 

Where to Eat in Phoenix, Scottsdale, & Tempe

There are so many places to eat in the Phoenix metro area. A quick summary of my favorites include:

Welcome Diner (Phoenix) 

There is a really nice outdoor seating where you can sit wherever you want and then come up to the window to order. They will bring you your food. This was the perfect set up for me as it was a good mix of service, but you could sit and really enjoy your food without a waiter checking up on you. 

I had the andouille scramble with cajun spiced country potatoes and a made from scratch fresh baked biscuit. It was very good and a hearty meal. 

Diego Pops (Scottsdale)

Diego Pops was good, but it seemed more about the environment than the food. The tacos are kind of pricey, but if you are looking for atmosphere it is a good choice.

Perfect Pear Bistro (Tempe)

This Tempe bistro serves sandwiches, tacos, salads, and pastas. I loved the outdoor courtyard! 

Cornish Pasty Co (multiple locations)

The restaurant is a southwest chain, with the majority of locations in Arizona. I walked by the restaurant after eating lunch another day. My first thoughts were my mom would like this and maybe I should add it to my list. As my mom wasn’t traveling with me and I’m usually not a huge fan of pasties, I forgot about it. A few nights later a Lyft driver recommended it to me. Then on my last full day in Phoenix when I was going to go to another place I found out from a tour guide that it usually has really long lines. I asked for another recommendation and she said the Cornish Pasty Co.

It took two solid recommendations from locals, but I was so happy I tried the restaurant. Maybe I haven’t had good pasties in the past, but my pork and apple was amazing!

Where to Stay in Phoenix

If you are spending more than a day in Phoenix, stay downtown. The SpringHill Suites is handy to all the activities downtown and provides easy access to public transportation to take you elsewhere in the city. Although they keep the airport shuttle a secret, there is a free shuttle going to and from the airport. Breakfast is also included. 

Aloft Phoenix Airport is another good choice, especially if you have a shorter time in Phoenix as it is only a couple minutes from the airport. The shuttle arrives on demand at the airport and leaves the hotel at set times. A rail station across the street will take you to downtown Phoenix or to Tempe. 

With platinum status or above you can receive free breakfast vouchers. The outdoor pool is perfect for a hot day! 

More top rated places to stay in Phoenix:

• Hampton Inn Phoenix Downtown : A conveniently located hotel with breakfast included.  
• Crowne Plaza Phoenix Airport : An airport hotel with an outdoor pool. 
• Hyatt Place Scottsdale : A hotel located in Old Town Scottsdale with breakfast and an outdoor pool.

Day 7: Phoenix

See day 6 for more things to do and places to eat in the Phoenix metro area. 

Other Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip Stops

If you are able to extend your Arizona road-trip longer you can spend more time in any of the destinations above or add on any of the following places. 

I mentioned Cottonwood earlier in the Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip while suggesting places to stay in Sedona. As well as being a cheaper base for exploring Sedona, Cottonwood has a few things to do itself. 

The Blazin M’ Ranch is a frontier themed dinner and show venue with a full country meal and music show. There are also activities around the property including ax throwing and mechanical bull riding. 

Dead Horse Ranch State Park has an interesting name and even more interesting hikes. 

I was really sad there wasn’t time for this former copper mining town in my Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip. The town can be visited after Prescott on the way to the Grand Canyon or after Sedona before heading back to Phoenix. 

The Jerome Historical Society will fill you in on the history of the town. Tour the Douglas Mansion at the Jerome State Historic Park to learn about an influential mining family. Explore the Pueblo Ruins at the Tuzigoot National Monument. Dine at the Clinkscale or the Haunted Hamburger. 

Petrified Forest National Park

Everyone comes to Arizona to go to the Grand Canyon, but the state actually has three national parks. Petrified Forest is about 1 hr & 45 minutes from Flagstaff. Historic Route 66 goes through some of the park. Winslow, another historic Route 66 town, is on the way. 

Speaking of national parks, Arizona’s third park is Saguaro National Park in Tucson. The city isn’t on the suggested Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip route, it’s actually in the opposite direction. Considering it is only about 1 hr & 45 mins south of Phoenix it isn’t too much of a detour if you have extra time! 

Plus with an international airport of its own you can fly out of Tucson at the end of your trip. Make sure to rent a car through a rental car company that offers different pick-up and drop-off spots. 

The biggest problem with adding Tucson is the change of temperatures from the south of the state to the north. While Tucson is pleasant, the Grand Canyon will probably still have snow. While the Grand Canyon has ideal temperatures in late spring and early fall, Tucson will be pushing 100 degrees. 

One Week Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip FAQ’s

What time of year is best.

I did this trip at the end of May, before Memorial Day. It was the perfect time of year as it was before the summer rush. The further north you go in Arizona and the higher the altitude (Flagstaff), the cooler it gets. Late spring and early fall have perfect temperatures. Phoenix will be hotter, but all the other spots will most likely be mild, warm weather. 

How long does it take to drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon?

Without stopping it takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon (one way). If you follow the Phoenix to Grand Canyon road trip included above the drive time is about 9 hours round-trip.

Can I do a Grand Canyon road trip without a car?

Many people in the US would consider a car essential to any road trip. I often travel without a car and call it a road trip! I did this trip by car and it will be much easier by car, but a similar trip can be done without a car. You’ll want to use a mix of public transportation (including Greyhound & Amtrak), shared shuttle services, and guided tours.

Groome Transportation has shuttles that run from Phoenix to Flagstaff, Grand Canyon, Prescott, Sedona, and Tucson. Guided tours to the Grand Canyon are available from Phoenix , Flagstaff , Williams , and Sedona .

What should I bring? 

If you plan on hiking, be prepared with my day pack hiking list and know what to pack by using my what to wear while hiking guide .

If this one week Phoenix to Grand Grand Canyon road trip helped you plan your time in Arizona please consider supporting me  by  Buying Me a Coffee !

More About Arizona

• Things to Do in Downtown Phoenix
• Things to Do in Old Town Scottsdale

Grand Canyon’s South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point

Share this:

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)

You May Also Like

The Only Guide You Need for What to Do in Downtown Phoenix

The Best Things to Do in Old Town Scottsdale

Riana Ang-Canning

This is getting me so excited for our Arizona trip in just a few days! We won’t make it to all of your stops but quite a few and now I have even more restaurant, hike and museum recommendations. Thanks!

The Fearless Foreigner

Thanks for reading the post! It’s a really fun road trip, I hope you enjoy it 🙂

Amanda smith

Arizona native here, we pronounce is press Scott, snowbirds and out of staters call it press kit .

That’s interesting as locals were the ones who told me it was “press kit”. Is it a difference between natives and more recent transplants? I wonder how it got changed to press kit?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

6 Stops You Should Take from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

Table of Contents

It is road trip season and many of you may have plans to visit the Grand Canyon. But did you know there are breathtaking scenic stops and fun small towns to visit on the way from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon that will make your trip much more fun? We’ve hand-picked our top 6 favorites in this article to help you plan your trip.

Featured image credit: Visit Sedona

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arizona State Parks (@azstateparks)

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Nf-583A, Pine, AZ 85544

Tonto Bridge is one of the first stops you can make on your way from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. It is only less than 2 hours away from Phoenix with historic lodging for you to take a short break and short trails to get your muscles warm. While all trails here are less than half a mile, they’re famous for the steep climb. But that also means you’ll get a stunning bird’s eye view once you conquer the peak!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Traverse City Photographer (@nicolegeri)

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ

If all that climbing back at Tonto Natural Bridge got you tired, the Montezuma Castle will be your perfect second spot.  You could choose to slowly drive through and get a good view of the famous castle, or stop by and explore the artifacts from the Sinagua people.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sedona, Arizona (@visitsedona)

You may be getting tired and are looking for somewhere to eat and relax before resuming your trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. Well, then why not stop by Sedona — a unique, artistic town full of delicious foods, fun shops to stop by, and historic spots to explore. When you’re done, take a scenery drive straight through endless red rocks and majestic mountains, and resume your roadtrip.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Flagstaff, Arizona 🌲🗻🌲 (@flagstaff_arizona)

Summer and fall are the most beautiful seasons in Flagstaff with wildflowers blooming all over. Also, festivals are back this year, so if you’re driving in the night during one of the festival days, then you must stop by and allow yourself some wild fun — just remember to drive safely and responsibly!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Grand Canyon Railway (@grandcanyonrail)

Williams is an absolute hidden gem in Arizona, especially if you’re a car lover. You’ll see plenty of lovely vintage cars lined out on the side of the street. If you need to plan one final stop on your day trip to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, Williams is a good place to stay too. They have plenty of lodging options with awesome restaurants nearby.

Did you know you can also ditch your car and take a train straight to the Grand Canyon from Williams, AZ?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Local First Arizona (@localfirstaz)

Did you know Jerome was known to be the wickedest town in Arizona? If you’re want to take a different route to go back home, and would rather do something equally adventurous but less exhausting, then Jerome is right there for you! This used to be a mining town. So you can find plenty empty, abandoned mines around for a ghost-hunt. With a population of around 450, this place is perfect for those wanting to enjoy some slow time as they head back to Phoenix.

You May Also Like

The Best Guided Walking Tours in The Valley

Rooftops In Phoenix You Don’t Want to Miss

4 Popular Kayaking Rivers Near Phoenix, AZ

2-FOR-1 GA TICKETS WITH OUTSIDE+

Don’t miss Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more at the Outside Festival.

GET TICKETS

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

Powered by Outside

6 Best Road Trips

Driving to the Grand Canyon is the ultimate road trip. Here are scenic, adventure-packed road-trip itineraries complete with maps and the best towns, attractions and smaller parks to stop at along the way.

Launch your Grand Canyon road trip from Phoenix , Las Vegas , Salt Lake City , Denver , New Mexico or drive a section of the famous Route 66 . But don’t be in a hurry. You’ll find that the surrounding Americana, Native American culture and Arizona’s wine country can be as enchanting as the national park itself.

>", "path": "https://www.mygrandcanyonpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/utah-parks-and-grand-canyon-road-trip/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "5 Utah National Parks Plus Grand Canyon Road Trip"}}'> 5 Utah National Parks Plus Grand Canyon Road Trip

>", "path": "https://www.mygrandcanyonpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/denver-to-grand-canyon-road-trip/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "denver, colorado to the grand canyon road trip"}}'> denver, colorado to the grand canyon road trip, >", "path": "https://www.mygrandcanyonpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/las-vegas-to-grand-canyon-road-trip/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "las vegas to the grand canyon road trip"}}'> las vegas to the grand canyon road trip, >", "path": "https://www.mygrandcanyonpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/new-mexico-to-grand-canyon-road-trip/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "new mexico to grand canyon road trip"}}'> new mexico to grand canyon road trip, >", "path": "https://www.mygrandcanyonpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/phoenix-grand-canyon-road-trip/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "phoenix to the grand canyon road trip"}}'> phoenix to the grand canyon road trip, >", "path": "https://www.mygrandcanyonpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/grand-canyon-route-66-road-trip/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "route 66 road trip from new mexico to grand canyon country"}}'> route 66 road trip from new mexico to grand canyon country.

• North Dakota
• Czech Republic
• Switzerland
• Vegan City Guides
• Vegan Travel & Tips
• Vegan Fashion
• Sustainability
• Blogging Tips
• Photo Diaries
• Unfortunate (but hilarious)
• Recommendations
• Get in Touch
• Work With Me
• Best Travel Insurance
• Freelance Gig

• Arizona , North America

Are you searching for the ultimate Arizona itinerary that features the bustling city of Phoenix, the wondrous Grand Canyon National Park, and the stunning red rocks of Sedona? Look no further! This incredible 1-week Arizona itinerary takes you across the state to all the top destinations and attractions (including the cool ghost town of Jerome!). Keep reading to plan your 7-day Arizona trip!

Psst, this post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

If there’s one state I keep going back to again and again, it’s Arizona.

As someone who hails from the northern midwest state of Minnesota , I just can’t get enough of Arizona’s sunny weather, diverse landscape, mind-blowing attractions (like the Grand Canyon), and incredible hiking opportunities !

Over the past 10 years or so, I’ve visited Arizona countless times!

Whether it was doing a one-month USA road trip with Dan (the wanderful boyfriend), visiting Sedona on a girl’s trip with my mom and sister, exploring Prescott and the Grand Canyon on spring break, or heading down there to visit my grandparents who live in Arizona for half the year, this stunning state keeps calling me back.

But it’s not just me Arizona is calling in — this state has gotten some serious love from travelers and tourists recently! More and more people are discovering the incredible outdoor opportunities and unique sites Arizona has to offer.

If you have an itching to visit this sunny state and are wondering how to best plan your trip, this itinerary will help you see the best of Arizona in a short time!

I’m recommending all of my favorite AZ spots in this 7-day itinerary — Phoenix, Grand Canyon National Park, and Sedona.

Additionally, on the drive up to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, I add in a cheeky stop at the coolest ghost town in Arizona — Jerome! You’re going to love it.

Keep reading to discover what Arizona has to offer and how you can see Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Jerome in just one week.

Table of Contents

7-DAY ARIZONA ITINERARY: PHOENIX, GRAND CANYON & SEDONA

First things first: a car is essential for this trip.

Unfortunately, public transportation is dire in the United States and getting around via vehicle is absolutely crucial to make the most of your precious time and visit the best places in Arizona.

If you don’t have your own vehicle for your Arizona trip, I recommend using Kayak for car rentals . I find this site typically displays the best car rental deals!

Additionally, if you don’t live near Arizona or in the United States, you’ll likely be flying here. I recommend flying into Phoenix, as this will be the most affordable option.

Phoenix has two main airports — Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Both are centrally-located and have rental car places right near the arrival gates.

I always use Skyscanner to search for cheap flights ! You can use the little widget below to see how much flights are from your departure airport to Phoenix, AZ.

(Side note: I have an entire post on how I score cheap flights! Check it out here .)

7-Day Arizona Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick overview of the more detailed itinerary below.

• Day 1 – Land in Phoenix and spend time exploring the city.
• Day 2 – One full day in Phoenix to visit its top sites and attractions.
• Day 3 – Drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon with a stop in Jerome.
• Day 4 – Full day at the Grand Canyon National Park.
• Day 5 – Drive from the Grand Canyon to Sedona and explore this cool town.
• Day 6 – Full day in Sedona.
• Day 7 – Drive back to Phoenix from Sedona and fly out.

Don’t forget to view the map of this road trip at the bottom of the post to get a better idea and actual visual of how you’ll be traveling around Arizona!

Phoenix — Day 1-3

Your first couple days in Arizona are going to be spent in the bustling, lively city of Phoenix! As the capital of Arizona, you can bet there are tons of fun things to do, sites to see, and attractions to visit in Phoenix.

Best Things to Do in Phoenix, AZ

• Head into Scottsdale Old Town and explore the Wild West-looking buildings.
• Check out the incredible Desert Botanical Garden and view adorable succulents, beautiful flowers, towering cacti, and gorgeous greenery! (This is a personal favorite of mine!)
• Ready to view beautiful Phoenix from above? Go on a  Sunrise Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride !
• Depending on how hot it is, have a picnic in one of the many city parks.
• Jump in the car and head out for a hike on the outskirts of Phoenix. (I’m a big fan of the Lost Dutchman State Park.)
• Visit the Heard Museum, which is devoted to Native American civilizations.
• Check out the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
• Admire the Pueblo Grande Ruin.
• Spend time outside at the Tempe Beach Park.
• Explore the the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, Ro Ho En.
• Eat your heart out at the exceptional vegan restaurants in Phoenix .

Where to Stay in Phoenix, AZ

I recommend staying somewhere central to cut down on transportation when in Phoenix. Not to mention, by staying centrally, you’ll be closer to all the best things to do in Phoenix!

My favorite areas to stay in Phoenix include:

• Scottsdale (absolutely amazing!)

Phoenix → Grand Canyon National Park

Next up on this 7-day Arizona itinerary? The Grand freakin’ Canyon, baby.

After spending a couple days seeing and experiencing the best of Phoenix, it’s time to drive up to Grand Canyon National Park. It takes around 4.5 hours to drive from Phoenix to Tusayan via Jerome, which is why you’ll find day 3 is mostly a travel day with a stop in Jerome.

Tusayan is the town right by the Grand Canyon National Park south entrance and it’s where I recommend you stay due to it being more affordable than staying inside the park. More on that below.

Jerome – Day Trip

Jerome is hands down one of the COOLEST towns to visit in Arizona!

What once was a copper mining town has been turned into a tourist town filled with unique shops, little eateries, historic buildings, and a seriously interesting history.

Although, not too long ago Jerome was a bustling little place with around 15,000 residents. But as the copper mines dried up and money ran out, people up and left Jerome, leaving the town a desolate destination filled only with the lingering ghosts of long-lost miners.

Nowadays, there’s around 400 people living in Jerome! (Who often report of strange occurrences and ghoulies running around the place…)

Anyways, with all of its cool attractions and interesting history, Jerome is well worth a stop on your drive up to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix!

Grand Canyon National Park — Day 4

Who’s ready to see a giant hole in the ground? ME!

Okay, okay, the Grand Canyon is so much more than just a simple hole… it’s a seriously stunning and cavernous canyon whose size you cannot even begin to fathom until you’re standing in front of it in person witnessing just how giant it truly is!

Not to mention, this national park boasts incredible views, gorgeous colorful rocks, exciting hikes, and a wild history that goes back millenniums.

In fact, scientists believe humans have inhabited the Grand Canyon area since the Ice Age! How crazy is that?

All in all, you won’t be bored when visiting the Grand Canyon — especially if you’re into reading placards and learning about its history! While the views can get a bit monotonous (though still beautiful!), getting to know the Grand Canyon’s past is where it’s at.

In this one-week Arizona itinerary, I dedicate one full day (2 nights) to the Grand Canyon National Park. I want to make sure you get your full Grand Canyon experience when visiting Arizona!

Best Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

• 45 minutes helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, AZ .
• Drive to one of the many viewpoints situated along the Grand Canyon South Rim. (My favorites include Desert View Watchtower, Yavapai Point, and Yaki Point!)
• Go on a  Grand Canyon East Rim jeep tour .
• Visit Hopi House.
• Hike to Hopi Point from Grand Canyon Village.
• Explore the Grand Canyon Village. (Surprisingly, a LOT of vegan options in the grocery store!)
• Grand Canyon Hermit Road Bicycle Tour .

Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon National Park

As mentioned above, I recommend staying in Tusayan, which is the town located near the Grand Canyon National Park south entrance. If you’re road tripping Arizona on a budget, you’ll find accommodations in Tusayan are much more budget-friendly compared to accommodations inside the national park.

That said, if you have the means, I highly recommend staying within the national park! The hotels in Grand Canyon Village are incredible and in a spectacular location.

• Tusayan Hotels
• Grand Canyon Village Hotels

Grand Canyon National Park → Sedona

After you’ve gotten your fill of the Grand Canyon and its stunning views, it’s time to make your way back south to Sedona and its magical red rocks!

The drive from Grand Canyon National Park to Sedona takes around 2 hours so you can easily wake up in the morning, have a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Grand Canyon, make your way to Sedona, and have a good half day or so to go on a hike or explore this quirky little town.

Ever thought about visiting Yosemite and Sequoia in the winter? It’s absolutely gorgeous! But before you plan your trip, check out this post on essential things to know when visiting Yosemite & Sequoia National Park in the winter !

Sedona — Day 5-7

Sedona is by far my favorite destination on this 7-day Arizona itinerary!

With its gorgeous red rocks, endless hiking opportunities, magical atmosphere and spiritual aura (it’s known to have 4 energy vortexes!), adorable local shops, jaw-dropping views, and delicious eateries, Sedona is one of the best places to visit in Arizona.

Best Things to Do in Sedona

• Go on a hike — I recommend these short, easy hikes near Sedona .
• Hike Devil’s Bridge via Mescal + Chuckwagon Trail , which is a favorite among visitors.
• Check out Oak Creek Canyon.
• Visit Cathedral Rock.
• Explore the Red Rock Scenic Byway.
• Check out one (or a few) of the many gift and specialty shops — the crystal shops are amazing here!
• Take a look at the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
• View Sedona from above and watch the sunset from the Airport Mesa.
• Marvel at the Palatki Ruins ( Palatki Heritage Site ), just outside of Sedona in the Coconino National Forest.
• Venture to the outskirts of Sedona at night for some incredible stargazing. (Check out this Sedona Nighttime UFO + Stargazing Tour !)
• Go on a Small-Group Vortex Jeep Tour ! The vortexes are an iconic attraction in Sedona and a must-visit on your 7-day Arizona road trip.

Where to Stay in Sedona

Sedona is pretty small so no matter where you stay, you’ll likely have easy access to all the best places and attractions here! However, some of my favorite places to stay in Sedona include:

• Sky Ranch Lodge ( incredible views and amazing location!)
• L’Auberge De Sedona (this place is so unique and seriously luxurious!)
• Southwest Inn at Sedona (classic southwest theme and gorgeous views!)
• The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort (beautiful and affordable!)

Sedona → Phoenix

On the last day of your trip, it’s time to drive back to Phoenix! Depending on what time your flight is at, it might be easier to drive back to Phoenix on day 6 and stay your last night there so you’re not rushing in the morning.

However, I highly recommend staying in Sedona as long as you can and driving to the airport from Sedona the day you fly out (if possible). It’s a relatively straightforward drive from Sedona to the Phoenix airport that takes around 2 hours.

Sedona is a GORGEOUS place to hike in Arizona! I recommend going on at least one hike with your time here. Check out this post on 5 awesome short and easy hikes in Sedona, AZ for more inspiration.

Map of 7-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

How awesome does this 7-day Arizona itinerary sound?

Who wouldn’t love to road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon and Sedona, with an exciting stop in the cool ghost town of Jerome?!

As someone who has personally done this Arizona sightseeing road trip before, I can wholeheartedly say it is totally awesome! It’s not too fast and not too slow, and features the best of Arizona in a short amount of time.

Tell me, are you planning an Arizona road trip that has stops in Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona? How does this 7-day Arizona itinerary sound to you? Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• 7 essentials you should always pack for a day hike
• Falling in love with Port Townsend – Washington State
• Experiencing Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota (aka the most underrated national park in the USA)
• The ultimate 1-month USA West Coast road trip itinerary that’ll blow your mind
• Road trip packing list – 55+ essentials you can’t forget (2021 edition)
• 5 reasons you need to rent an RV for your next adventure

Love this post on a 7-day Arizona itinerary featuring Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona? Pin it!

As mentioned above, this post contains affiliate links. Which means if you make a purchase through the links, this site receives a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our full disclosure here .

Related Posts

8 fun things to do when visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota

How to plan a road trip up the North Shore in Minnesota

34 photos that’ll inspire you to visit Banff National Park in Canada

Article comments.

We enjoyed your pictures and stories about Az. We relived our trip there many years ago and still enjoy hearing about it. Thank you for all the great pictures and stories .

Go Wander Wild

This 7-day Arizona itinerary is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

Robert T Stubbs

Great job and very informative. Thanks!

Thanks, Robert! Really appreciate you stopping by and reading the blog. Are you planning a trip to Arizona?

Hi Sophie, my wife and I are doing the 7 day phoenix, grand canyon, sedona trip from June 11 to 18 Thank you for doing this.

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Sign me up for The Wanderful Me newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Travelling Blizzards

Chasing the best in budget travel, burgers, beer & tacos.

• [ July 28, 2021 ] Day Trips from Phoenix: 14 Kick Ass Arizona Road Trips Road Tripping
• [ March 9, 2020 ] Penticton Wineries: One Day Itinerary on Naramata Bench Beer & Wine
• [ January 27, 2020 ] Best Burgers in Montana: The Southeast Montana Burger Trail Burgers
• [ June 21, 2019 ] The Best Places to Eat on Oahu Dining Guides
• [ June 19, 2019 ] 9 Mouthwatering Edmonton Food Festivals You Can’t Miss this Summer Blog

Phoenix to Grand Canyon Itinerary: See It All in Under 6 Days

• Total: 5.5K
• Pinterest 5.4K
• Facebook 45

LAST UPDATED: April 25th, 2019

This post may contain affiliate links. When clicked, I may receive a small percentage of each sale. This does not affect your price in any way. As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases. See our full disclosure policy and privacy policy for more details.

Typically, I’m not much of a planner, but knowing that we wanted to see everything we possibly could and not miss out on anything, I actually spent a lot of time researching this area. And I’d say it paid off! There is SO much to do in the area surrounding the Grand Canyon, it can be difficult to put it all together in a way that lets you experience as much as possible. This Grand Canyon itinerary can be modified to suit your schedule, and is jam packed full of cool experiences and great information.

Be sure to save this Google maps Grand Canyon itinerary that goes along with this post so you can refer to it while you’re driving!

Table of Contents

Our 6 Day Grand Canyon Itinerary

Day 1, Phoenix to Flagstaff

Montezuma’s castle.

To kick off your Grand Canyon itinerary leave Phoenix early and drive north on highway 17 about 1.5 hours to visit Montezuma’s Castle near Camp Verde. This national monument protects cliff dwellings that are very well preserved, though you can’t walk through them- mostly because they are high on a cliff! This is where you could buy your America the Beautiful National Parks pass , if you decide you want to. (Between here and Grand Canyon, it’s already halfway paid for!) There’s a nice loop to walk here to stretch your legs and a nice creek side picnic area, but you won’t be here for more than an hour. Montezuma’s Castle is a great and historic addtion to your Grand Canyon itinerary, so be sure to stop here!

Red Rock Visitors Center

From Montezuma’s Castle it’s only 25 minutes to the Red Rock Visitors Center, so don’t get comfortable! The visitor’s center lines up some amazing views, and great photo ops. If the weather is suitable, you could take some time to do a hike here before continuing on. If you are a hiker, you could easily add a day onto this itinerary, and hike the rest of day 1 before heading on to Sedona.

From the Red Rock Visitors Center you’ll continue on hwy 179, through the village of Oak Creek and into Sedona. This highway is known as the Red Rock Scenic Byway, and is a seriously beautiful drive! Take your time here, and be prepared to stop often for great photo ops. You’ll see signs telling you where there are roadside pull offs for you to take photos, so watch for them!

In Sedona you can browse one of the dozens of rock shops or wander Tlaquepaque, Sedona’s Arts & Crafts village. This is also a great place to stop for a snack & take advantage of the stunning views all around you! Here’s a list of some of the best restaurants with a view in Sedona.

Once you’ve had your fill of exploring Sedona, it’s time to head north again to continue on your Grand Canyon itinerary! This piece between Sedona and Flagstaff is long and winding, and you’ll likely find your phone losing service. So if you need your GPS to feel comfortable driving this road, make sure you download the map area so it’s available offline.

Slide Rock State Park

A worthwhile stop for this Grand Canyon itinerary is Slide Rock State Park. It is a natural, stone waterslide and waterhole, so is mostly advisable in swim-able weather. It is just north of Sedona, so you can see how time is looking when you’ve finished in town.

Once you’ve had your fill of Slide Rock Park, head to Flagstaff to spend the night. Use Airbnb to find a place to stay !

Day 2, Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Village

Note: Flashlights and solid footwear are required for this activity. A jacket or sweater is also recommended

If you’ve ever wanted to stand in the tunnel of an old lava flow, this is where to go! I had never heard of this place until a friend mentioned it shortly before we left Phoenix, while I was looking for things to do at the Grand Canyon. After a bit of googling, I found where it was located and quickly added it to our Grand Canyon itinerary. And I’m so glad we did! We both still count this stop as one of our coolest experiences to date.

Getting here is a bit of a drive through the country, and one that isn’t guided by any signs to show you’re going the right way. After 20 or so minutes of driving down bumpy roads and through cattle pastures, you’ll see a single sign telling you to turn right, and a minute later you’ll find yourself in a fair sized parking lot. There’s a good chance you’ll be alone… we only saw 2 other small groups in the 90 or so minutes we were there!

Please note that this activity on our Grand Canyon itinerary isn’t ideal for small children, anyone unsteady on their feet or anyone that has fears of darkness as it involves a moderate climb into a cave on rocky terrain in pitch black. It’s not difficult for the average adult, but would be difficult to do if you had to hold a child’s hand. Also be sure to bring a few flashlights with you! The brighter the better to get a good look and take cool photos! Once you get into the cave it’s pitch black with not a bit of light- find a steady place to stand and turn off your light to test it out! This rocky entrance only lasts the first 20-30 feet, so you will get to flat ground pretty quickly!

The lava tubes are located about 35 minutes west of Flagstaff, off of hwy 40 , on your way to the Grand Canyon. Expect to spend around an hour here, depending on how far back into the cave you walk. It is 0.75 miles in and the same out. But you’ll want to take some time to pause and check out the patterns on the walls! If you bring a camera, be sure to bring along a tripod to get nice and steady photos!

Williams, AZ

Williams is a great little stop on our Grand Canyon itinerary! Known as ‘the Gateway to the Grand Canyon’, it is also the last town on historic Route 66 to be bypassed by hwy 40. Williams is home to the southern terminus of the Grand Canyon Railway, the train line that bring people north to Grand Canyon Village. The town is lined with eateries and hotels reminiscent of the days when Route 66 was bustling, along with many souvenir stores to mark your time on the Route.

After a wander up and down the main street, this is a great town to stop for lunch before driving north to the Grand Canyon. We recommend Twisters Soda Fountain for a great meal! It doesn’t look like much from the outside (though you will notice the pink Cadillac and ‘Eat Here’ sign!), but out of the 2 places we tried in town, this one wins our vote!

Bedrock City

If you grew up watching the Flintstones, this is a must stop on your Grand Canyon itinerary! It’s on the left of hwy 64, about 30 minutes north of Williams. It IS dated, and won’t take you long to walk around and get a few photos, but is worth the $5 entrance fee for nostalgia’s sake.

Rocks ‘n’ More Shop

Directly across from Bedrock City is a nice rock shop called Rocks ‘n’ More. Not recommended if you have small children as it’s pretty tight quarters and filled with a ton of beautiful and valuable items, but is a nice little shop to browse! They have a large lot out back with some massive collections of stones that was cool to take a wander around!

Planes of Fame Air Museum

If you’re any sort of aviation fan, this would be a good, quick stop on the way to the Grand Canyon, in the same area as Bedrock City. We didn’t have time on our drive, and we’d already seen all of the planes on display in this museum thanks to Seth being a complete aviation nut! We always enjoy these stops though, so consider it if you have a bit of extra time! I’d guess you’d probably want around an hour to see everything on site.

South Rim Visitors Center & Mather Point for Sunset

Once you get to the Grand Canyon park gates it’s a 15 minute drive to the parking lot of the visitors center. Mather Point is the main lookout at the South Rim, but we enjoyed walking east along the pathway to get some varying views while the sun was going down.

You can camp or stay in a cabin at the South Rim Grand Canyon Village, stay in Tusayan, or continue on to Page tonight. We opted to continue on to Page that night, but it definitely makes for a long day so I’d recommend staying in the park and setting off the next morning. Doing it this way will allow you time to stop at some of the lookouts along the road heading east out of the park. From the South Rim Visitors Center to Page is nearly 2.5 hours and tomorrow is a pretty light day, so you’ll still have time to see everything we cover in this Grand Canyon itinerary.

Day 3, Grand Canyon South Rim to Page

Glen canyon dam tour & walk across.

When in Page, you really can’t miss the Glen Canyon Dam. It’s a massively impressive dam built on the Colorado River at the edge of Page in the 1950’s to create Powell Lake, which works to distribute water equally among the 7 states within the Colorado River Basin. It is also a huge source of hydroelectric power for the area.

You can walk across the pedestrian walkway to get a view of the dam, but the only way to walk across the dam itself is to take a tour. They leave hourly, last about an hour and only cost $5 for those over 17, and $2.50 for kids 6-17. Not only do you walk across the dam on the tour but you also get to go to the bottom, 583 feet down to the base of the Colorado River. It truly is a worthwhile tour, and we highly recommend it for your Grand Canyon itinerary!

Glen Canyon Dam overlook

When planning your Grand Canyon itinerary you can’t skip this overlook! The views are beautiful, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset. You’ll see signs for the overlook and find a parking lot at the top. From there you can walk down a set of natural sandstone ‘stairs’ to get to the overlook. It’s a fun walk over and around the levels of sandstone, and the overlook offers a great view of the Colorado River, Glen Canyon, and the dam. You can stay here for 15 minutes, or an hour or 2. There will be a steady stream of people stopping to check it out, as it is a stop on most bus tours.

Get Waterholes Slot Canyon Pass

Waterholes Canyon is the lesser known little cousin of the popular Antelope Canyon. It is a similar slot canyon to Antelope, but because the upper section- the piece that is hikeable- is on Navajo land, you only need a hiking permit instead of a guide. Upper Waterholes Canyon makes for an awesome day hike, with some seriously photogenic angles. We spent about 3 hours there and only saw one other family as we were getting back to our car to leave. So if you’re not a fan of shoulder to shoulder crowds and fast moving tours, this is the canyon to choose!

You’ll get your pass from the Tribal Parks Office in Leche-e for $12/person and I’ve heard they’re also available from Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon Tours office, but I can’t verify that. So leave me a comment below if you have bought it from there!

Explore Page & Lake Powell

Page is a cute, touristy town of about 7000 that sits on the banks of Lake Powell, the second largest man-made reservoir in the world. If you stick to the main strip, you’ll find fast food stops, restaurants, souvenir stores and an abundance of tour companies. It won’t take long to get a feel of Page, so you’ll have plenty of time to check out Lake Powell!

If you have a couple extra days in your itinerary, this would be a great time to head to Monument Valley in the northeast corner of Arizona. There you’ll see the giant red rocks extending out of the desert, and experience the same view that Forrest Gump did on his run! We didn’t have time to make it there, but it’s definitely on my list for a future road trip!

Day 4, Page to Grand Canyon North Rim

Stop at navajo bridge.

Navajo Bridge is an arch bridge spanning the Colorado River on the way to Lee’s Ferry, 5 miles north on the river. It was built in 1929, and was only the second crossing of the Colorado River at the time. There are now 2 bridges at the same spot- one open to vehicle traffic, and the other only open to pedestrian and equestrian traffic. You’ll find a parking lot on either side of the pedestrian bridge, but I recommend stopping on the west side of the bridge, as this is where you’ll find the state park office, washrooms, and a picnic area. From here you can walk across to see the view. On the east side you’ll find several Indigenous artisans selling their wares, if you’re looking for some authentic souvenirs!

Marble Canyon

Marble Canyon is the section of canyon that you’ll see from Navajo Bridge, through which the Colorado River flows. It stretches from Lee’s Ferry to the beginning of the Grand Canyon, and is named so not because it is made of marble, but because the many colors and smooth sides give the look of marble. You’ll be right alongside this canyon when you get to Lee’s Ferry and stop at the beach!

Lee’s Ferry

Old Cliff Dweller’s Cabin

This is a quick stop on the Grand Canyon itinerary just to the right of the highway, about 20 minutes after leaving Lees Ferry Road. You won’t spend more than 10-15 minutes here, but it’s worth the stop to see some how the giant red rocks and balancing rocks were used as dwellings. You can go into a couple of the old homes, and wander around the balancing rocks. It’s likely you’ll see a local artisan or 2 selling their local wares, so if you’re looking for a souvenir this is a great place to get them.

Vermillion Cliffs

The Vermillion Cliffs are the second step up in the Colorado Plateau. The 5 steps in this sequence make up the ‘Grand Staircase’ of the Plateau. You’ll be driving alongside these cliffs until you veer into the hills entering the Coconino National Forest. The Old Cliff Dwellers Cabin are also at the base of these cliffs, so you’ll get a great up close and personal look at them. If you are driving along them in the right light, you’ll be able to really pick up the different colors in the rocks!

Kaibab Forest Visitors Center

This visitors center sits at Jacob Lake, right where hwy 89A and hwy 69 meet. The scenery presents a stark change from the red rock and desert you’ve been surrounded by the last couple days. You’ll enjoy the lush forest and cooler temperature, and the abundance of wildlife. Stop into the Jacob Lake Inn for a nice giftshop, delicious ice cream and cookies, and a mini grocery store.

Note that hwy 69 is closed in the winter, so you won’t be able to continue on to the North Rim between Nov 1 and May 15. It is a beautiful drive up until this point though, so I would consider it a worthwhile scenic drive even so!

North Rim walk & Sunset ( Closed October 15- May 15 )

While this part is closed during the winter, it’s a must do part of this Grand Canyon itinerary during the rest of the year! We loved walking along the paths on this side of the Grand Canyon, and watching the sunset here was beautiful!

From the parking lot head into the Grand Canyon Lodge complex to get onto the Bright Angel Point Trail. It is paved the entire length of the 0.75 mi (1.2km) long trail, but can be narrow at parts. It offers several places to take photos and take in the views. We walked the path, then picked a spot to have a seat to watch the sunset. We were definitely not the only ones with this idea, though there were much fewer people here than at the South Rim! We even lucked out and sat next to a past Grand Canyon artist-in-residence and author of the book Chasing the Light- Grand Canyon , Adam Schallau ! It was cool to meet him after pouring over his book in the South Rim gift shop, and he even offered some great advice to us budding photographers!

Day 5, Page to Grand Canyon South Rim

Horseshoe bend.

Horseshoe Canyon is only 10 minutes south of Page, and is an absolute MUST DO on this Grand Canyon itinerary! You’ll want to get there either early or later in the day to see the sunset. It gets packed with tourists pretty quickly, and stays busy all day. In hot weather the walk to the canyon can be pretty strenuous, so doing it before the midday sun hits would be ideal.

The walk from the parking lot will take you around 30 minutes each way, and is so worth it! Make sure you don’t forget your SD card in the car like I did… Seth was kind enough to offer to run back and get it… But I think he regretted it halfway!

Waterholes Canyon hike

Waterholes Canyon is a slot canyon similar to Antelope Canyon, characterized by the winding and narrow Arizona sandstone walls. You’ll park just off the road a little further south from Horseshoe Bend, and start your hike along the top of the canyon. When you enter the gate with the ‘no trespassing’ sign, you’ll spot a cairn-marked trail that leads you to the best place to descend into the canyon. Once there, you’ll find yourself on a sandy path through the base of the canyon. Walk a ways north, and you’ll soon feel the walls narrowing. Keep an eye out for the tiny lizards! We had fun watching those little guys!

You can plan on spending 2-3 hours here.

Drive to South Rim for Sunset

From Page it’s a 2.5 hour drive back to South Rim for the last sunset on this Grand Canyon itinerary. For our second sunset here we opted to spend it at the Desert View Watchtower lookout point. It was much less populated than Mather Point, so made for a nice relaxing evening. The watchtower itself closes at 7pm, so get there early if you’d like to go inside. We didn’t make it but I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend you try to!

There are a few different viewpoints on Desert View Drive, and all of them would make for a beautiful view for sunset. We also stopped at the Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park & Gorge Overlook to take a look at the gorge there. A handful of vendors were just packing up for the day, and it was incredibly windy so we couldn’t go too close to the edge, but it was a nice place to stop and stretch our legs for a few minutes!

Watch the Sunrise at the South Rim

This was by far one of the most amazing experiences of my life. HIGHLY recommend doing this during your visit to the Grand Canyon. I promise you won’t regret it! You can always sleep later 😉

We had scoped out a place to sit a few days previous, so when we got to the park we just had to gather our supplies and head out to get comfortable. We got there for 4am, which proved to be the perfect time- enough time to get out there and get comfortable, and really immerse in the darkness before the sun started to rise. Flashlights are a must! As are warm footwear, blankets, a warm jacket and possibly even a toque depending on what season you’re there in.

Sitting in the pitch black, at the edge of a cliff 6000 feet tall, listening to the sounds of the world waking up… It is such an amazing, breathtaking experience that we’ll never be able to replicate. We heard a rock slide somewhere down below, and spent the first hour spotting all the bouncing flashlights of hikers crossing the canyon. After the sun was up and we made moves to head out we even spotted a deer and her 2 fawns on the path beside us!

If you do nothing else on this itinerary… Do this!!!!

South Rim shuttle tour

Once the sun has risen and you’ve had your fill of walking this section of the rim, drop your blankets and gear at your car and head over to the visitors center to hop onto one of the free rim shuttle buses. We took the blue shuttle then transferred to the red one that ultimately takes you to the far end of the accessible rim, at Hermit’s Rest. From March 1 to November 30 Hermit’s Road (the section past Bright Angel Trailhead) is closed to private vehicles, so the only way to get to the end is with the shuttle. You can choose to get off at each viewpoint (9 including Hermit’s Rest), or bypass some of them- we were getting tired so skipped 2 of them towards the end. The drive is 80 minutes round trip, and you can expect to spend 10-20 minutes at each viewpoint. The shuttle comes by every 10 minutes.

Optional: Hike

There are many hikes available for all skill levels, so if you’re not too tired from the early morning, check out this page to see if there’s one for you! If hiking isn’t likely, you can spend some time in the Grand Canyon visitors center and learn a bit about the canyon’s history, and pick up your Grand Canyon collectors token!

And that marks the end of our Grand Canyon itinerary! Now you can head back to Phoenix, or spend some time exploring Flagstaff. Their downtown offers a nice place to spend the afternoon before continuing to Phoenix!

As you’re putting together your Grand Canyon itinerary I hope our experience helps you with your planning! Visiting the Grand Canyon marked the beginning of our favourite adventure to date, and was definitely the stuff of dreams!

Do you have any suggestions that I’ve missed? Leave a comment below!

Have you found this itinerary helpful?? Give it a pin or a share!

11 Comments

Great guide! Dying to go to Grand Canyon, this guide is very comprehensive on things to do in the area.

Brilliant blogs and photos! I particularly loved the water hole canyon shots!

Such a great journey! I can only imagine the vast scale of the place.

And they say that my itineraries are packed! This is amazing.. Day 2 even looked a bit scary! I have been wondering about going to the US lately and finally cross it off my list but I keep posponing it. The Grand Canyon and Yosemite are two of the main reasons why I would like to go. I think that for a week, I will follow this itinerary point by point! It is awesome how much you go to visit! Thanks!

Wow, I’ve been to the Grand Canyon, but never like this…I’ve got to go back and watch the sunset. I’ve done sunrise at the Canyon and yes, that is an iconic experience.

Great post! It’s amazing how much you managed to cover in just 6 days! There is so much to do in the area and this is a nice selection of highlights. Thanks for sharing

Great itinerary! I just moved to Arizona (Tucson) and I am currently planning to head up north for a bit to get some winter weather, hopefully! What a beautiful state this is!

This trip covers so much ground and so many amazing spots!!! I would love to do this.

Looks like a great itinerary! I haven’t been to the Grand Canyon since I was a teen and we’re hoping to go back soon. Will keep this in mind!

This is soooo helpful. I’ve been totally overwhelmed by Southwest US trip planning, so it’s great to get a realistic sense of what’s possible. Thanks for the tips!

One of my favorite places in the world. Love the way you captured it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Copyright © 2024 | MH Magazine WordPress Theme by MH Themes

Privacy Overview

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

How to get from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

Sure, you can get from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by car, but there are way more awesome ways to make the trip

Everyone needs to see the Grand Canyon at some point, right? This gorgeously isolated piece of magic lies waiting in the vast Arizona desert, 75 miles from the closest city ( Flagstaff , for the record). Phoenix is more than 200 miles away, meaning getting to the Grand Canyon without a car isn’t quite as simple as you’d expect for somewhere visited by millions of people annually. Luckily for curious visitors, we’ve put together the essential guide to getting from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, covering planes, trains, and automobiles. And, erm, helicopters, because why not? These are the best ways to get from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. Yes, the trip is completely worth it.

RECOMMENDED: 🏜 The best places to stay in the Grand Canyon 📍 The best things to do in Phoenix 🏞️ The best  national parks   in the USA

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

An email you’ll actually love

1.  Car

There are three routes from Phoenix to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, the closest (and most crowded) section of the Grand Canyon. Each way takes about the same amount of time—about 4 hours—so the route you choose depends more on how you want to kick off your adventure. For 230 miles of straight freeway driving, head north on Interstate 17 towards Flagstaff, then merge onto I-40 West towards Williams. At State Route 64 (Exit 164), go north towards the Tusayan, a one-horse town a mile south of the park entrance. Take advantage of classic Southwestern high-desert landscapes with a detour. From I-40, take Exit 201 onto Highway 89 towards Cameron, then head west onto State Route 64 at the roundabout until you reach the park’s eastern entrance at Desert View. For a forested route through the mountains, stay north on I-17 through Flagstaff. Hang left on US 180, then right onto SR 64 at Valle towards the park entrance. Highway 180 is at a high enough elevation that it can be ice over when temperatures drop below freezing. If you’re traveling to the Grand Canyon in winter, consider driving one of the other routes to the South Rim.

If you’re headed to the Grand Canyon for serenity, consider skipping the busy South Rim for the under-visited North Rim, a 350-mile, seven-hour drive from Phoenix. The trip starts out heading north on I-17 to Flagstaff, then east on I-40 before taking Exit 201 onto US 89. At Bitter Springs, head left on US 89A to Jacob Lake, then continue on SR 67 to the North Rim.

2.  Train

Amtrak’s  closest stop to Phoenix is Flagstaff, 145 miles to the north. But if you snag a  Groome Transportation  shuttle to the historic Flagstaff Train Depot on Route 66, you can hop on the train east. Amtrak only runs as far as Williams, 65 miles from the Grand Canyon Village at the South Rim. There, transfer to the scenic  Grand Canyon Railway , a charming 2-hour and 25-minute ride through the high desert to the edge of Grand Canyon National Park.

3.  Bus

There are no regular direct bus routes from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, but if you’re traveling with a squad,  National Bus Charter Phoenix  will book trips for between 18 and 56 passengers. If you’re going solo (or with a small group), your best bet is to take a  Greyhound  or  FlixBus  from one of three bus stations in Phoenix to Flagstaff, a 2-and-a-half-hour ride up I-17. When you arrive in Flagstaff, take a  Groome Transportation  shuttle straight to Grand Canyon Village or walk next door to the train depot, where the Amtrak leaves daily on a 45-minute journey to Williams. From there, transfer to the  Grand Canyon Railway  for a gorgeous 2.25 trip to the national park.

4.  Plane

Flagstaff Pulliam is the closest commercial airport to the Grand Canyon, but once you land, you’ll still have 75 miles to negotiate before reaching the South Rim. Luckily, finding transportation from Phoenix to the National Park isn’t a challenge. If you want your own transport in the national park, rent a car in Flagstaff. Several agencies have offices on site. If you prefer to remain car-free,  Groome Transportation  runs scheduled shuttles from Flagstaff to the town of Tusayan, about a mile south of the South Rim. For more flexibility (and a higher price tag),  Grand Canyon Shuttles  will drive you to the South or North Rim at your convenience with an advance reservation. They’ll even drop backpackers off at a trailhead.  Amtrak  runs train service from Flagstaff to Williams, about 65 miles west of the South Rim. From there, hop the intensely scenic  Grand Canyon Railway  straight to the national park’s Grand Canyon Village.

The  Grand Canyon National Park Airport , located eight miles south of the park’s South Rim, is a more straightforward option for getting to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. But with only private and charter planes like those run by  Grand Canyon Airlines  landing at the airport’s single runway, the convenience will cost you. 

5.  Helicopter

If your Grand Canyon #lifegoals don’t include hiking or backpacking its trails, consider a helicopter tour. For just under $1750/person,  360 Adventures  runs a three-hour fly-over tour from Phoenix throughout the year. If you want time on the ground, they also offer a full-day option that combines a flight to the canyon with a hike below the rim for $1150-1550, depending on ability and age. Other companies, including  DETOURS of Arizona ,  Maverick Helicopters , and  Papillon Grand Canyon Tours , offer similar quick-but-spectacular adventures.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Michael Law and Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The drive time from downtown Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is about 3.5 to four hours . The 229-mile route is a combination of Interstate and regular two-lane highways. It's an easy drive that climbs up from Phoenix at an elevation of 1,090 feet, topping out at 7,000 feet at the South Rim.

Transport options from Phoenix include self drive, tours, a shuttle bus, and a Greyhound bus/shuttle combo. You can also fly to Flagstaff from Phoenix and then arrange ground transport to the Grand Canyon.

If you are looking for day trip options, the only way you'll be able to accomplish this task is if you drive yourself or take a tour. If you are primarily concerned with just getting to the Grand Canyon, and time is not an issue, the bus/shuttle combo or shuttle-only options will work along with the fly and drive setup.

On This Page:

• From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Car
• From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Tour
• From Phoenix Airport to the Grand Canyon by Shuttle
• From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Greyhound Bus and Shuttle
• From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Air & Drive

1. From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Car

Driving to the Grand Canyon either in your own vehicle or a rental car provides the highest level of flexibility. The route is along well-maintained and well-signposted roads, and although the recommended time for the trip is 3.5 hours, budget for longer. Several impressive lookouts along the way may have you pulling over to snap a few photos.

The ride is relatively scenic, as you pass through several vegetation zones ranging from cactus through to towering ponderosa pine forests and eventually a high desert area of scrub brush and Pinyon pines near the rim.

The route most people take is up Interstate 17 to Flagstaff and across scenic Highway 180 to Highway 64 . Although Google Maps will want to route you along Interstate 40 to Highway 64, the route along Highway 180 is significantly more scenic and only five minutes longer. If you do choose to take the I40, be sure to stop in and check out the town of Williams , home to the Grand Canyon Railway.

Alternatively , you can drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff via Sedona. This is a more difficult drive, particularly between Sedona and Flagstaff, but it's also incredibly scenic. A wonderful way to break up your trip to the Grand Canyon is to plan a stop in Sedona . Check out the red rocks, soak up a bit of "Zen-ness," and then travel up along Highway 89A through scenic Oak Creek Canyon, one of America's top scenic byways, to Flagstaff and on to the Grand Canyon. Flagstaff, which you'll pass through on all routes, is also well worth a stop for its historic downtown area and Route 66 notoriety.

Once at the canyon, you can park your car and walk to all the major viewpoints. To further explore areas, jump on any one of the three free shuttle buses that operate from March 1st through until November 30th.

If you have the time and inclination to explore further afield, an excellent loop route that takes in the East Rim, the Desert View Watchtower, the Little Colorado River Gorge, the historic Cameron Trading Post, the Wupatki Pueblos, and the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is suggested. From Grand Canyon Village, take Highway 64 East (Desert View Drive) to Highway 89, which will lead you back to Flagstaff.

This route is only roughly 30 miles longer but is incredibly scenic. It also saves significant backtracking if you want to explore the East Rim area.

2. From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Tour

A great way to enjoy a spare day in Phoenix is to take a day trip tour to the Grand Canyon. This world wonder is not to be missed. A tour takes all the planning out of the equation; all you need to do is show up at the appointed time and let the tour company take care of all the details.

With the 13-hour Small-Group or Private Deluxe Grand Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix , you'll see all the famous sights of the Grand Canyon including the South Rim, Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, and the Yavapai Geology Museum, along with many others. En route to the Grand Canyon, a stop at Williams allows for a bit of shopping and an opportunity to see the original Route 66.

Always wanted to see the Grand Canyon from a helicopter? Consider taking the Small Group Grand Canyon Helicopter and Ground Trip from Phoenix . This trip follows the itinerary above but includes a 45-minute helicopter flight prior to arriving at the park.

Both tour options include hotel pickup and drop-off in the Phoenix metro area. Grand Canyon National Park admission is included, but lunch is at your own expense.

3. From Phoenix Airport to the Grand Canyon by Shuttle

Another good budget option is to take the shuttle bus that leaves from the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. This route, serviced entirely on Groome Transportation , leaves the airport every 1.5 hours starting at 7:30am through to 12 noon and heads directly to Flagstaff, arriving three hours and 20 minutes later. The shuttles from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon leave about 15 minutes after you arrive at the Groome Transport office in Flagstaff.

This route is ideal if your flight arrives early enough to allow you to catch the shuttles leaving before 12 noon. Any shuttles after this time miss the last connection to the Grand Canyon.

The national park admission is not included in the fare.

4. From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Greyhound Bus and Shuttle

If you are staying in Phoenix and on a tight budget, it's possible to take the bus to the Grand Canyon. You just need to do a bit of coordination of schedules. Greyhound buses leave from Glendale, the Phoenix bus station, and the Tempe University area. The buses arrive in Flagstaff 2.5 to 3 hours later, depending on the departure location.

The trick is that you need to get yourself from the bus station to either the Amtrak station (one mile) or the Groom Transport office (1.5 miles). If you don't mind the walk and have luggage with wheels, you'll be fine. Also, it's critical to note that the last Groome Shuttle leaves at 3:25pm. Miss that, and you'll be staying overnight in Flagstaff.

This routing is cost-effective (almost half price versus the shuttle), and has the added bonus of not going all the way out to the airport. However, it's not terribly convenient because you'll spend most of your day getting to the Grand Canyon, and some waiting around in Flagstaff is required. However, if you have more time than money, it's just fine.

Note that national park admission is not included in the fare.

5. From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon by Air & Drive

An option that might be viable if your incoming flight connection works is to fly from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport to Flagstaff, where you'll pick up a rental car and continue to the Grand Canyon. This hour-long flight is particularly scenic, as it climbs up over the Mogollon Rim and the pine forests en route to Flagstaff. Keep an eye out for the red rocks of Sedona along the way.

Pick up a rental car and from Flagstaff, it's another 1.5 hours of scenic driving to the Grand Canyon along Highway 180. Note that when you book the flight, it shows up as Grand Canyon Village, Airport (code FLG); however, the airport is actually in Flagstaff and not at the Grand Canyon.

More on Arizona

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• National Parks

Everything to Know Before Visiting Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit — here's what you need to know before you go.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Know Before You Go

Best time to visit, how to get there, best things to do, places to stay, places to eat.

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

There are few natural wonders that can challenge the great jaw-dropping size and beauty of the Grand Canyon. It is a mile deep and 10 miles across, showcasing an eye-catching array of layered red rock that reveals millions of years of geological history in a single glance. It is a wonder that is so bold, big, and beautiful that it marks planet Earth in a scar that can be seen from space. 

To see the 277-mile canyon, you should visit Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona, a protected area that contains most of the canyon and the Colorado River that runs through it.

“The canyon landscape itself is the main draw for visitors from all over the world,” said Joelle Baird, a public affairs officer at Grand Canyon National Park, in an email interview with Travel + Leisure . She has lived and worked at the Grand Canyon for 12 years and says the landscape is special for many reasons. 

“Many visitors are surprised by how high in elevation we are here (7,000 feet on the South Rim, 8,000 feet on the North Rim), so we have ponderosa pine and juniper/pinyon pine forests that encompass the high desert landscape as well.”

To provide you with a comprehensive guide to the park, we leaned into Baird’s expertise. After 12 years working in and along the canyon — as a biological science technician, preventative search and rescue ranger, and now a public affairs officer — she offers a wealth of inside knowledge. Below are her recommendations on everything from when to visit to where to hike.

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Grand Canyon National Park straddles the canyon itself and is broken into two sections: the South Rim and the North Rim. 

Most people see the canyon from the South Rim, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round and is home to the main Grand Canyon Visitor Center. The South Rim also has a second visitor center, Verkamp's Visitor Center, which focuses on the people who have lived along the canyon and showcases what it was like to live and work in the park. To get to the South Rim, you can enter at the South Entrance near Tusayan, Arizona or the East Entrance (Desert View) near Cameron, Arizona. Most people use the South Entrance.

“I would recommend visiting the South Rim for at least a few days if it's your first trip to the canyon. The South Rim has a lot of visitor services including hotels, restaurants, and ranger programming that is definitely worth checking out,” said Baird.

Meanwhile, the North Rim near the Arizona-Utah border is quiet and remote, and completely closed to visitors between Dec. 1 and May 14. It is quiet and beautiful on the North Rim, but it also has fewer services, even in the summer. The North Rim Visitor Center and Park Store is open from May 15 to Oct. 15.

If you want to visit both rims, you have to take a five-hour drive around the canyon. For that reason, most visitors choose to just visit one of the canyon’s rims.

To enter the park from any entrance, you’ll have to pay $35 per day, per vehicle, or purchase the $70 annual park pass. Grand Canyon National Park does not require reservations or time-entry passes to enter the park.

Most people visit Grand Canyon National Park between late May and early September. June, July, and August tend to be the busiest months. The quieter “shoulder seasons” run from March to May and September to October, while the low season runs November to March.

The South Rim, which is open year-round and is easier to get to, is always busier than the North Rim of the canyon, which is only open between May 15 and Oct. 15, weather dependent. If you’re planning to visit the South Rim over school holidays, summer break, or fall weekends, you should expect long lines, limited parking, and crowded viewpoints. To lessen wait times, you can buy your park pass in advance in Tusayan, the South Entrance gateway town; enter the park at the less-busy East Entrance; or take the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim. 

According to Baird, if you don’t need to visit the North Rim, winter can be an extra-special (and quiet) time at the South Rim. “As a resident of Grand Canyon, my favorite time is the winter! We typically receive low visitation and many of the popular viewpoints are uncrowded. It is a much quieter time and the contrast between the red rocks of the canyon and snow on the rim is a magical sight.” 

The best time to see and photograph the Grand Canyon is typically at sunrise and sunset . Sunrise is between 5:11 and 7:40 a.m., depending on the season, while sunset fluctuates between 5:14 and  7:49 p.m. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit the Grand Canyon

The closest town to the South Rim is Williams, Arizona, which is a direct one-hour-and-20-minute drive on Route 64. From the larger city of Flagstaff, the South Rim is one hour and 45 minutes via Route 180. Phoenix is the closest major city (and airport) and is three hours and 45 minutes away by car. Las Vegas is around four hours and 45 minutes from the South Rim.

Once you’re in the South Rim “village,” there are several free shuttle buses that take you to various viewpoints, sites, and trailheads around the rim. Some routes run year-round, while others are seasonal. Check the schedule on the website .

You can also get to the South Rim on the Grand Canyon Railway , which departs from Williams, Arizona. By taking the train, you can avoid entrance line waits and parking headaches. 

The North Rim, which is typically open between May 15 and Oct. 15, is around two hours south of Jacob Lake, Arizona on Highway 67. Las Vegas, which is over 5 hours away by car, is the closest major city and airport to the North Rim. And as we previously mentioned, driving between the two rims takes a full five hours. 

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Scenic Drives

One of the best ways to experience the size and beauty of the canyon is to drive the Desert View Drive along the South Rim. The road takes off near the South Rim village and continues along the canyon rim for 23 miles, passing six viewpoints and a Tusayan Pueblo site. A shuttle bus also runs along this route.

Hermit Road (formerly West Rim Drive) runs in the opposite direction of Desert View Drive on the South Rim and offers a completely different look at the canyon (with nine viewpoints). Hermit Road is closed to private cars from March 1 to Nov. 30. During that time, there is a free shuttle bus that runs along the road.

On the North Rim, you can drive between Cape Royal and Point Imperial on a scenic road with plenty of pullouts and viewpoints, including Walhalla Overlook and Roosevelt Point. Keep in mind the North Rim and its scenic roads are closed in the winter. 

Related: Best Grand Canyon Viewpoints

If you’re interested in going down inside the canyon, a raft trip is a must. There are full and half-day river trips that can be arranged through lodging accommodations on the South Rim, along with multi-day excursions down the Colorado River (for the latter, you need to secure a permit in advance). 

Merrill Images/Getty Images

Road Biking

On the South Rim, there are around 13 miles of bike-friendly road and greenway trail (including Hermit Road, formerly known as West Rim Drive). The shuttle buses have bike racks so you can bike out and ride the bus back. There are regular and e-bike rentals available from the Bright Angel Bicycles shop adjacent to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center on the South Rim.

Cultural Demonstrations

There are ongoing cultural demonstrations at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center on the South Rim. These free demonstrations allow park visitors to meet members of the area’s 11 Indigenous groups and watch how traditional and modern crafts are made. 

Best Hikes 

Canyon rim trail.

This flat route runs right along the rim of the canyon and is a great introduction to the park. It starts at the visitor center at the South Rim and follows the edge of the canyon, eventually running alongside Hermit Road, which has nine exceptional overlooks.  

Trail of Time

The Grand Canyon has a long and beautiful geological history, and it’s showcased along the Trail of Time, which runs almost three miles round-trip along the canyon rim between the Yavapai Museum of Geology and Verkamps Visitor Center on the South Rim. Each meter walked on the timeline trail signifies one million years of Grand Canyon's geologic history, and there are samples of rock and exhibits that explain how the Grand Canyon was formed.

South Kaibab Trail

Baird says, “Day hikes into the canyon should definitely be on your list if it's your first time.” She recommends hiking along the South Rim’s South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge (three miles round-trip) or Skeleton Point (six miles round-trip). Just keep in mind, the trail descends into the canyon and is extremely steep. The national park notes that “the openness of this trail lends itself to extreme heat during the summer months and little to no protection from passing storms.”

Bright Angel Trail

Another in-canyon hike on the South Rim that Baird recommends is the Bright Angel Trail to the 1.5- mile rest house or the three-mile rest house. This route follows in the footsteps of the canyon's Indigenous people, miners, and early tourists.

Transept Trail

This route on the North Rim follows the canyon rim from the Grand Canyon Lodge to the North Rim Campground. The canyon views are plentiful on this three-mile round-trip hike. 

North Kaibab Trail

This is the only maintained trail that goes into the canyon from the North Rim. You can go as far as you want, with the Coconino Overlook and Supai Tunnel just 1.5 miles and four miles round-trip, respectively. The North Kaibab Trail goes all the way from the rim to the river at the bottom of the canyon, but the park warns that “Under no circumstances should you attempt to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day” as the route is 28 miles round-trip with a steep 6,000-foot descent.

Hotels and Lodges

On the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, there are seven year-round lodging options. Five are in the historic district and are bookable online at grandcanyonlodges.com . The other two are located on Market Plaza near the visitor center and can be booked on visitgrandcanyon.com . 

Standouts include El Tovar Lodge in the historic district, which is located directly on the rim and is a National Historic Landmark. El Tovar has hosted park visitors like Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, and Oprah Winfrey. Maswik Lodge South just opened in June 2022 for visitors looking for a modern take on traditional national park lodging. And Yavapai Lodge on the Market Plaza is notable because it has clean, simple rooms and is pet friendly.

There are also plenty of places to stay outside the park near the South Rim, including the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel in Williams, Arizona where the train to the Grand Canyon departs from. Baird notes that “staying close to the park during your visit ensures you can make sunrise and sunset times more convenient.”

On the North Rim, the only lodge within the park is the Grand Canyon Lodge , which fills quickly during the North Rim’s opening window of May 15 to Oct. 15.

Campgrounds

There are four campgrounds along the South Rim, including the year-round Mather Campground for tent camping and Trailer Village for RVs. The South Rim also has two seasonal campgrounds that open for the spring, summer, and fall: Desert View near the East Entrance and Ten-X Campground.

There are also two seasonal campgrounds on the North Rim of the canyon, the North Rim Campground and the DeMotte Campground. Neither have hookups.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Camping at the Grand Canyon

On the South Rim, there’s everything from grab-and-go lunch options (check out the Bright Angel Bicycle Rental and Café ) to full-service dining at places like the Arizona Steakhouse in the Bright Angel Lodge and the El Tovar Dining Room and lounge inside the El Tovar Lodge. You can also pick up groceries at the Canyon Village Market general store.

When the North Rim is open, you’ll find a general store adjacent to the campground as well as a saloon, deli, and full-service dining room in the Grand Canyon Lodge.

8 Amazing Road Trips To Take Between Arizona & New Mexico

Are you in the mood for an interstate adventure? Try out these eight Southwestern scenic drives made just for you.

• Hit the open road and explore Southwest America's cultural and natural wonders on these epic road trips full of adventure.
• Marvel at iconic landscapes and immerse yourself in history as you journey from Phoenix to Albuquerque, Santa Fe to the Grand Canyon, and beyond.
• From urban culture to desert escapes, these road trips offer a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking scenery.

For lovers of the outdoors, adventurers, and history buffs a road trip across Southwest America is a great idea. Travelers get to cruise along iconic landscapes and experience vibrant cultures in the states of Arizona and New Mexico . Take any of these eight road trips in which you will experience ancient wonders, quirky roadside stops, and natural beauty that will leave you breathless.

7 High Elevation Peaks Worth Hiking In Arizona

8 phoenix, arizona to albuquerque, new mexico, discover fantastic cultural and historical attractions, go camping at petrified forest national park.

A road trip from Phoenix to Albuquerque will offer an exciting mix of culture, history, outdoor adventures and immersion in nature. One stand-out activity is to visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona. It's an architectural marvel that offers spectacular panoramic views. It also features a cross wedged with the chapel built around the rock.

For people who prefer a natural check out the hiking trails , or horseback riding at Petrified Forest National Park . In Albuquerque, there are a myriad of attractions to visit. These include historic and cultural sites such as Old Town Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center , the Albuquerque Balloon Museum , and the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History . Outdoor activities include the Sandia Peak Tramway , ABQ BioPark , and the Petroglyph National Monument .

7 Santa Fe, New Mexico To Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Enjoy urban culture and plan activities at the grand canyon.

If an adventure to the Grand Canyon sounds exciting, this epic road trip is for you. This 480-mile trip will take you through famous world heritage sites, diverse landscapes, and vibrant, bustling cities. Explore Santa Fe's art scene by visiting museums like the George O'Keeffe Museum or the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture.

Along the way to the Grand Canyon , visit the Bandelier National Monument and learn about the area's history. There are also other activities for you, such as exploring the volcanic cones and hoodoos at the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument .

When you finally reach the end of your trip to the Grand Canyon, enjoy nature's spectacular power . Soak in the sunrise and sunset at the canyon, take a mule ride, or go on a helicopter tour to get an epic canyon view.

6 Route 66 (Tucumcari, New Mexico To Oatman, Arizona)

See spectacular desert landmarks and discover unique roadside attractions.

This famous road is nationally renowned as a scenic drive . It's a major interstate highway that goes from California to Illinois. In Arizona, Route 66 crosses the state, and you can take it all the way to Gallup in New Mexico.

Some of the activities along the way include a photo-op at the Standing on the Corner Park in Winslow, Arizona, hiking at Petrified Forest National Park, a glimpse into the Wild West at Jackrabbit Trading Post , learning about native culture in Gallup, New Mexico, and flea markets in Tucumcari, New Mexico.

Take This One-Day Road Trip To See A New Side Of Arizona

5 phoenix, arizona to white sands national park, new mexico, marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of white sands national park.

Escape the hectic city life in Phoenix and go for this desert symphony. Make a stop at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument to learn about the fascinating history of the Hohokam people. On the drive, enjoy various attractions such as Pima Air and Space Museum , Reid Park Zoo , and the Tuscon Botanical Gardens .

White Sands National Park contains the world's largest gypsum dune field, thousands of animal species to check out, and various activities. The sunset walk also provides spectacular scenery.

4 Tuscon, Arizona to Las Cruces, New Mexico

Cruise along the desert landscapes and visit historic towns.

This scenic trip offers a delightful escape through the Sonoran Desert while enjoying its natural beauty and cultural discoveries. After leaving Tuscon, you'll see the majestic Santa Rita Mountains. Take a detour to Saguaro National Park and hike in the desert landscape while exploring the plant and animal life in the arid ecosystem. Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and check out the exhibits. For people with families and nature enthusiasts, it's a perfect stop.

Other stops include Colossal Mountain Park , where spelunking lovers can go on an adventure. The final point is Las Crues, also known as "The City of Crosses," which has a rich history, a vibrant art scene, and delicious New Mexican cuisine.

3 Geronimo Trail (Douglas, Arizona To San Lorenzo, New Mexico)

Enjoy a quiet, serene nature escape.

One of the most scenic routes in the Southwest, the Geronimo Trail runs from Douglas, Arizona, into New Mexico. It offers spectacular views and some historic spots. These include the San Bernardino Valley and the Peloncillo Mountains. You might also be lucky and spot some wildlife in the grasslands, such as antelopes.

This trail gives you first-hand experience of New Mexico's diverse landscape and ecosystems as you pass from mountains to deserts and bushes to hills. It's one of the more secluded routes on this list, so be sure to fill your tank beforehand.

2 Santa Fe, New Mexico To Phoenix, Arizona

Experience southwestern urban culture.

A road trip from Santa Fe to Phoenix promises a cultural and scenic adventure that will leave a lifelong memory. On the route, marvel at the landscape of rolling hills dotted with juniper trees.

Some of the stops include the Salina Pueblo Missions National Monument . Here, you'll get a glimpse into the lives of the Pueblo people through the ancient structures. Pass by Albuquerque, New Mexico's largest city, where you can enjoy art galleries and delicious cuisine.

The landscape is dominated by the Sonoran Desert as you head into Phoenix. Stop at Saguaro National Park and enjoy some hiking trails. Phoenix also has plenty of attractions and activities , including world-class museums and art scenes, or you can take a swim in an oasis to beat the heat.

10 Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In New Mexico

1 carlsbad, new mexico to grand canyon national park, arizona, discover unique geology at lechuguilla cave and go hiking at the grand canyon.

If you want to hit all of the region's national parks, Carlsbad is a great place to start your road trip and get a feel of the rugged beauty of the Southwest. Carlsbad Caverns is home to some beautiful caves such as the Lechuguilla Cave , where you get to see truly unique geological formations. Just 30 minutes away over the Texas border is the Guadalupe Mountains National Park . You can also check out another national park, White Sands , which is about 3.5 hours away.

While driving through the desert highway you will pass through a host of towns such as Gallup, New Mexico, and Flagstaff, Arizona. Along the way, there are a number of outdoor adventures for you. Go hiking in Petrified Forest National Park or explore the ancient petroglyphs near Winslow, Arizona. Finally, drive to the Grand Canyon and marvel at the power of nature; enjoy helicopter rides or go on any of the park's hikes .

7 Road Trip Itineraries From Las Vegas To The Grand Canyon

• Diverse Road Trip Options : Explore 7 unique road trip itineraries starting from Las Vegas, each offering a different experience, with stops including Boulder City, Williams, and the Grand Canyon.
• Flexible Travel : With itineraries varying in length, you can choose a road trip that suits your schedule, whether you have a day or several days to spare, ensuring a memorable journey through Sedona, Flagstaff, and the Grand Canyon.
• Convenient Starting Point : Las Vegas serves as a convenient travel hub, making it easy to begin your adventure through the Western United States, experiencing breathtaking landscapes including Utah's natural wonders, and the Tonto Basin.

There is something romantic about exploring Western United States by car. You become intimately acquainted with the landscape and get to see natural wonders up close and personally. Las Vegas is a popular travel hub, making it an easy place to begin your journey. This list outlines 7 road trips you can take from this eccentric city all the way to the idyllic Grand Canyon National Park!

It only takes about 4 hours to drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. But the space between these two destinations is full of scenic stops that are worth making a trip out of! Each of these 7 different itineraries will take you through the desert on an unforgettable trip. Each road trip itinerary varies in length, so you can choose what fits best for you. Whether you only have a day to travel or wish to spend several days on the road, we have an itinerary for you!

All of these itineraries are point-to-point and are ideal for car rentals. Each road trip terminates at the Grand Canyon, giving you the option to spend as much or as little time as you'd like there. You'll find it's easy to spend a few days exploring the park. Whether you spend time hiking its beautiful trails , spending a night camping inside the canyon, or just walking around the rim, you'll love the awe-inspiring views. After your time at the national park, you can simply backtrack to either Phoenix or Las Vegas to fly home.

How To Visit Canyon De Chelly National Monument On The Navajo Nation

A direct route with scenic stops, this direct route is the fastest way to get from las vegas to the grand canyon, with two stops along the way.

This route is the most direct one you can take from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon! The great thing about this road trip is that you can decide how long you want it to take - make the drive in a day or stretch it out over four.

No matter what you choose, start your trip in Sin City and enjoy unique experiences in the area . There are plenty of affordable hotels to book if you decide to stay the night. Next, take the drive to Boulder City, where you can experience a day of small-town charm. Visit the Hoover Dam , get fantastic views of Lake Mead from Hemenway Park, or check out the Nevada State Railroad Museum .

Before reaching the Grand Canyon, make a stop in Williams to enjoy attractions like Bearizona and the Canyon Coaster Adventure Park ! You can even take a scenic train ride to the Southern Rim . It's recommended you spend at least one night in Williams or at the hotels or campgrounds close to the Grand Canyon. This gives you a full day (or more!) to explore all the national park has to offer.

A Sedona And Flagstaff Adventure

Take a route that focuses on two of arizona's treasured towns.

If you love what you've heard about Sedona and Flagstaff, then this is the perfect route for you. This is a flexible route, allowing you to take as much or as little time as you'd like in these cities. The drive from Las Vegas to Sedona only takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes, making it easy to accomplish in a day.

There's a lot to discover on the road from Sedona to the Grand Canyon , so make sure you allow an appropriate amount of time to stop and see all the sights! This route is recommended for anyone hoping to mix in hiking and sightseeing when visiting these cities. It's also perfect for anyone on a time constraint or wanting to be conservative with trip mileage, as it is one of the shorter routes that is still jam-packed with attractions.

See Utah's Natural Wonders On This Road Trip

This longer point-to-point takes you north to see the magical beauty of utah.

Take the scenic route through Utah and explore the best that Mother Nature has to offer! This northern route takes you on a road trip through several beautiful conservation areas where you can see native flora, interesting rock structures, and desert wildlife.

Next, head over to the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area to see the mesmerizing red rocks that constitute this habitat. In this quiet, natural space, you'll be walking the same path as the dinosaurs . There are plenty of hikes in this area around St. George, Utah , if you're looking to stretch your legs! After all these conservation areas, you'll make a stop in Big Water, where you can explore the southern area of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The Big Water Visitors' Center is worth checking out, with its dinosaur theme and paleontology exhibits.

On the last day, you'll make the final push to the Grand Canyon, where you can explore all the stunning beauty this national park has to offer. This route is perfect for people who are looking to camp, or perhaps interested in renting an RV.

Since the national conservation areas are located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, you can often find free campsites. This is a perfect, budget-friendly travel hack for anyone driving an RV or a car they don't mind sleeping in. Check out the BLM's website for more details.

Explore National Monuments On This Road Trip

Discover arizona's treasures between phoenix and the grand canyon.

Start your journey by driving directly to Phoenix. This three to five-day road trip includes many beautiful stops to enjoy between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon! Featuring two fantastic national monuments, as well as 3 cities, this route has attractions that everyone in the family will love. Explore our in-depth guide on how best to experience this route !

Between Phoenix, Sedona, and Flagstaff, you'll have ample options for high-quality places to stay. This is a perfect route for anyone looking to sleep primarily in hotels.

A 6-Day Road Trip With A Stop In Lake Havasu City

Check out these amazing cities on your way to the grand canyon.

For those looking to travel in comfort and style, this city-focused route is the one for you! Explore 4 cities, in addition to Las Vegas, on your way to the Grand Canyon.

After a day in Las Vegas, your first stop will be at Lake Havasu City. This desert oasis is full of activities like hiking, shopping, and water sports and is sure to quench your thirst for adventure!

Next, you'll head over to Phoenix, Arizona, where you'll find ample ways to spend your time. This city is so big, you might even want to spend two nights here. Since this is a road trip, make sure you don't miss out on the scenic drives in the area !

Next, you'll head back north to Sedona, where you can get in touch with your spirituality and explore the stunning natural areas. It's worth it to spend some time here exploring the surrounding trails, as well as the local eateries and shopping.

Before reaching the Grand Canyon, you'll make one last stop in Flagstaff. This hidden gem of a city provides visitors with lots of family-friendly activities, breweries, natural attractions, and so much more . As it is only 75 miles from the Grand Canyon, it provides an easy jumping-off point for you to explore the national park.

10 Things To Do In Lake Havasu City: Complete Guide To This Desert Oasis

See the tonto basin along this road trip, take this southern route to experience 2 of arizona's national forests.

After your day in Las Vegas, take the drive straight to Phoenix, Arizona. Starting your trip in this city provides you with a great, comfortable place to prepare for your two days in the national forests.

Next is Tonto Basin, where you'll find ample trails that wind through the stunning, picturesque landscape . Spend a night under the stars at one of the free campsites if you're on a budget. Of course, if camping isn't your cup of tea, hotel accommodations are available in Tonto Basin!

For your final stop before the Grand Canyon, you'll be exploring the forests that surround Flagstaff. Make sure you travel in the spring or fall to see the stunning natural beauty in full bloom. In the fall, the aspen trees turn a bright yellow, creating an eye-catching mountain range blooming with color. The Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop is a popular trail where you can see these trees on display.

See The 7 Wonders Of Arizona On This Road Trip

Explore grand staircase-escalante national monument on this road trip, hit two national parks, as well as a national monument and an epic river town where you can see additional canyons.

This route is our longest, but it is a road trip worth the time. This route will take you through Bryce Canyon National Park, a landscape that is full of geological wonders. The entrance costs $25-35 , so it might be worth it to spend a night or two inside the park. There are plenty of unforgettable hikes you can take to fill your time over two to three days!

Next, you'll reach Escalante to explore the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Here, you can explore the visitor's center , as well as the expansive natural spaces in the surrounding forest. If you plan ahead and get a permit to hike the Wave Trail , you'll experience otherworldly views amid the red rocks.

A little more than a four-hour drive will bring you down to Lake Powell, where you'll definitely want to spend some time exploring the area. This stunning landscape is home to the Antelope Canyon , another natural attraction that is famous for a reason. This slot canyon holds inexplicable beauty and is definitely worth seeing! Lake Powell is the second-largest artificial lake in America and is worth exploring for a day or two.

Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

Breaking News Reporter

Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital