Arizona Travelers Recommend

The sheer vastness of the Grand Canyon, a deep gorge carved by the Colorado River, draws visitors from far and wide to this Arizona sight. Here’s what you need to know about touring the Grand Canyon—by air, vehicle, and foot—from nearby Phoenix.

Guided Day Trips

Guided day trips are a convenient option for visitors to Phoenix who want to cross the Grand Canyon off their bucket list in one day. Travel by road via van or bus, stopping at scenic spots such as Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, and Navajo Nation along the way, or make the most of your time in the Grand Canyon State and travel by air to the West Rim by plane or helicopter. A full-day guided tour often includes activities such as a walk on the Grand Canyon Skywalk overlook or a boat ride on the Colorado River, while customizable private day tours allow travelers to create an itinerary that suits their needs.

Guided Multi-Day Tours

If you've got a few days to spend at the Grand Canyon, multi-day tours offer a great way to take your time experiencing the area’s scenic beauty. You can easily break up the driving time with stops in Sedona and at Navajo reservations, with the option to see more of the viewpoints from the East Rim of the canyon. A three-day tour may add in a visit to the Grand Canyon Railway and the option for additional activities and free time. Expect to see more at a relaxed pace.

Things to Know

• Grand Canyon Village is located about 226 miles (363 kilometers) north of Phoenix, about a 3.5-hour journey by road.

• Full day tours range from about seven to 13 hours, so prepare for a long day.

• Make sure to dress for the heat and bring sun protection; the desert climate is often hot.

With two days in Grand Canyon National Park, you have an entire day to explore the popular sights along the South Rim as well as a day to learn about the history and culture of the Grand Canyon and tackle on an outdoor adventure or two. Here are a few ideas on how to spend your two days in Grand Canyon National Park.   

Day 1: Explore the Grand Canyon South Rim

**Morning:**Get an early start and hike along the Rim Trail from Grand Canyon Village and enjoy the sunrise at Yaki or Mather points. Alternatively, hike a short distance down Bright Angel Trail while the weather is still cool. Stop by the Visitor’s Center for trail maps and a quick introduction to the geology of the Grand Canyon.  

**Afternoon:**One of the most exhilarating ways to see the Grand Canyon is from air. Helicopter tours and scenic flights take off from the South Rim as well as Las Vegas and Flagstaff. Choices include scenic rides and luxury tours, and aerial tours often include gourmet dinners and below-the-rim landings. 

**Night:**After a day exploring popular South Rim spots, take the shuttle bus out of the Village onto Hermit’s Rest Road for drop-off at one of several viewpoints in time for sunset. The lookouts are superb at sunset and offer a reprieve from the crowds at Grand Canyon Village. 

Day 2: Native American Culture and Outdoor Adventures

**Morning:**Head to Grand Canyon's East Rim to visit Desert View Watchtower, an Ancestral Puebloan-inspired tower clinging to the edge of the canyon. Then stop by the ruins of an 800-year-old Ancestral Puebloan village at Tusayan Ruin and learn about the ancient people who once made this canyon home at Tusayan Museum. 

**Afternoon:**Back at Grand Canyon Village, browse Native American crafts at Hopi House and art exhibits and pioneer photographs at Kolb Studio. Adventurous travelers might take a jeep adventure, join a cycling tour, or skydive over the rim.  

**Night:**For your final night at Grand Canyon National Park, enjoy live music at Bright Angel Bar or an elegant dinner at historic El Tovar. With clear skies and low light pollution, stargazing at the Grand Canyon is fantastic. Join a ranger-led stargazing tour or enjoy the starry skies from the rim.

With three days in Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll be able to see all the highlights and also have time for a day trip to Arizona’s other top attractions, like Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell. Here are just a few ideas for how to make the most out of your trip to the Grand Canyon.  

Day 1: Sightseeing on the South Rim

Kick off your trip to Grand Canyon National Park by rising early and watching the sunrise at Mather Point. Take a hike along the rim or head down into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail while the temperature is still cool. Next, head to the Yavapai Geology Museum for a crash course in the history and geology of the Grand Canyon, or browse the historic photographs at the Kolb Studio. 

In the afternoon, splurge on a helicopter tour so you can really grasp the enormity of the Grand Canyon. Alternatively, take the shuttle out to Hermit’s Rest, and then hike back to the Grand Canyon Village along a more remote section of the Rim Trail, which is also a perfect spot to catch the sunset. End the evening with a luxurious dinner at historic El Tovar Dining Room. (Book a table well in advance of your visit.) 

Day 2: Exploring Ancestral Puebloan Ruins

Spend your morning exploring the sights at the East Rim, also known as Desert View. Grand Canyon National Park has thousands of ancient archaeological sites, and at the Tusayan Ruin, you can view the remains of an 800-year-old ancestral Puebloan village. Stop by the Tusayan museum to learn about the lives of the ancient people that made their home here, and don’t miss the views of the Colorado River from the Desert View Watchtower, a replica of an ancestral Puebloan tower. 

In the afternoon, browse traditional Native American crafts and jewelry at Hopi House, in Grand Canyon Village, then head out for a night of stargazing at the rim, which has reliably clear skies and low light pollution. The park offers occasional astronomy talks and stargazing events during the summer months. 

Day 3: Arizona Highlights or West Rim Daredevilry

Having checked off the main Grand Canyon attractions, you’ll have time to explore the wonders outside the park on your last day. Opt for an Arizona highlights tour and visit famous landscapes such as the Horseshoe Bend of the Colorado River, the stunning Antelope Canyon, or the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell. You can also choose river rafting, flightseeing, and canyoneering tours at some of these sites.

Alternatively, visit the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is outside the national park and operated by the Hualapai tribe. The West Rim is home to the Skywalk Bridge, a remarkable glass bridge that allows guests to walk out into the middle of the canyon suspended in the air, and is also the only region where commercial aircraft can land on the canyon floor. 

With just one day at the Grand Canyon, it's important to plan ahead to squeeze in as much as possible. Among the priorities: Visit the best lookouts, hike into the canyon, catch a sunrise or sunset, and tackle an outdoor adventure. Here are a few ways to spend your one day in Grand Canyon National Park.

Morning: Sightseeing on the South Rim

Most who have only one day at Grand Canyon National Park visit the South Rim from Flagstaff, Sedona, or Las Vegas. Day tours from these locations are usually include round-trip transportation and multiple canyon experiences. Tours typically offer guided hikes, helicopter tours, or a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway. If visiting independently, start early with a walk along the rim at sunrise. You won’t want to miss the views from Mather Point or a stop at the Visitor’s Center in Grand Canyon Village to get an introduction to the canyon’s history and geology. 

Afternoon: Venture Below the Rim

Very few visitors to Grand Canyon National Park venture below the canyon’s edge. Hiking into the canyon gives a unique perspective of the canyon's size and you don’t even have to go very far. Take off down the South Kaibab Trail to be rewarded with views at OoAh Point, only 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometers) round-trip. If you feel more adventurous, hike Bright Angel Trail to  Plateau Point. For a thrill, opt for a helicopter tour of the canyon, jeep adventure, or skydiving experience. 

Night: Sunsets and Stargazing

A full-day tour of Grand Canyon National Park can take 12 hours or more, but if you have free time at night, watch the sunset at Mohave Point. The Grand Canyon is especially peaceful at night, plus the park has some of the darkest skies in the country, making it perfect for stargazing. The park hosts stargazing events in summer, as well as evening ranger programs. Evening is also a nice time to visit Hopi House and Kolb Studio in Grand Canyon Village. 

A full Sedona experience can be had in three days if you plan an itinerary with activities that highlight the natural beauty, history, and outdoor opportunities of central Arizona. Here are our top ideas for how to spend a nature-filled 72 hours.

Day 1: Top Sights

Get acquainted with scenic Sedona on a short tour that introduces you to natural and man-made attractions like Oak Creek Canyon and Chapel of the Holy Cross. Or, take advantage of the early morning light on a photography tour where you’ll receive advice on capturing the scenery. Spend the afternoon in the rugged countryside to discover the natural landmarks for which Sedona is known. Depending on your interests, choose a tour that includes Native American sites and ancient rock art; check out Cathedral Rock; or follow in the footsteps of cowboys in Dry Creek Basin. 

When evening rolls around, visit Blazin’ M Ranch in nearby Cottonwood for a barbecue dinner, live music, and Western-themed activities like roping. If living history isn’t your thing, learn about the dead on a ghost tour of Jerome, an old mining town past Cottonwood.

Day 2: Alternative Activities

Splurge on a helicopter tour to begin the day up in the air, looking down on Sedona and its high desert scenery. Afterward, discover a different side of the area on a Jeep tour that combines a tour of the desert with a visit to an Arizona winery for wine tastings. If you prefer to stay in town, opt for a Segway tour to explore Jordan Road or see the Sedona Heritage Museum. 

In the evening, head out on a safari for the chance to spot local wildlife, such as elk or foxes, and enjoy the sunset in this tranquil environment. For a more mystical take on the landscape, take a sunset vortex tour to learn about this mysterious element of Sedona.

Day 3: Day Trip

Sedona’s proximity to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim and the Utah border—both are two to three hours’s drive, respectively—offers several day trip options for those who want to see some of the geological wonders of the American southwest. 

The Grand Canyon is understandably the most popular, but Antelope Canyon is a good alternative, with its sandstone slot canyon accessible only with a guided tour. If you’d like to get on the water in this desert region, consider a Colorado River rafting tour that includes floating around Horseshoe Bend. Or, see the otherworldly buttes of Monument Valley, accessible on a day trip to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Many day trips from Sedona include visiting the Navajo Nation or learning about the region from a Navajo guide.

Sedona beckons travelers with its distinct red rock landscape and mythical heritage. Just a couple of hours by car from Phoenix, it’s a Southwestern must-see that’s well worth an excursion from the city. Here are your options when it comes to Sedona tours from Phoenix.

Sedona Day Tours

A Sedona day trip from Phoenix showcases the region’s most famous sights and vortexes. If you’re interested in Native American history, you can opt to add a stop at national monument ruins or Navajo trading posts along the way. Adventurous travelers will appreciate the backcountry Jeep tours through Sedona’s Red Rock Country.

Sedona and Grand Canyon Tours

It’s possible to see both Sedona and the Grand Canyon in the same day, allowing visitors with limited time to see some of Arizona’s most dramatic scenery. Driving in the beautiful Sonoran Desert through Oak Creek Canyon and Flagstaff, and stopping for lunch at the Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim area, these combo tours offer an excellent overview of the natural beauty of the area. Multi-day tours offer a deeper experience of each destination.

Things to Know

• Sedona is 115 miles (185 kilometers) north of Phoenix, a drive of about two hours.

• Small-group day tours to Sedona last around 10 hours, and include five to six hours of sightseeing and lunch. 

• Trips to Sedona and the Grand Canyon range from one day (around 13 hours) to three days; longer tours allow for more time at each location.

• Day tours include round-trip transportation and pickup and drop-off from your Phoenix or Scottsdale hotel.

• Tours operate year-round.

Phoenix is an ideal base for desert adventures and day trips to Sedona or the Grand Canyon. From land tours to aerial sightseeing, there are many ways to enjoy three days in and around Arizona’s largest city—including shopping and dining in nearby Scottsdale. Here’s what you need to know to plan the perfect 3-day Phoenix itinerary. 

Day 1: Metro Phoenix in Your Pocket

Get to know downtown Phoenix, aka the Valley of the Sun, with a half-day sightseeing tour of landmarks such as the State Capitol, Camelback Mountain and Wrigley Mansion. Alternatively, visit the fashion outlets or head to the boutique shops of Old Town Scottsdale. When you’ve worked up an appetite, set off on a food-tasting tour of its culinary delights. For a bit more adventure, zip around on a Segway or zoom around the desert on an ATV with a guide to show you the way. If temperatures are too hot, cool off at the Sea Life Arizona Aquarium for a family-friendly afternoon with the kids. As night falls, discover the underbelly of Phoenix on a Murder & Mystery tour! If serenity is what you seek, ride the skies in a hot air balloon at dusk and toast the sunset with Champagne. 

Day 2: Further Afield

With so much to experience beyond metropolitan Phoenix, spend your second day outside of town. A driving tour through the Sonoran Desert takes you to the red rock country of Sedona via the Navajo Nation. You can soar across much of Arizona on a Monument Valley air and Jeep tour. Or follow the Apache Trail on a tour through the legendary Superstitious Mountains to the former mining town of Goldfield and then cruise Canyon Lake aboard a steamboat to get a sense of Arizona’s Old West. Ride a Hummer into the desert in search of nocturnal creatures at Tonto National Forest, home to bighorn sheep and other wildlife. Or float past desert cliffs and canyons on a scenic boat ride across Saguaro Lake. There are options to suit everyone, including quiet stargazing through a telescope for budding astronomers. 

Day 3: The Grandest Canyon of All

The proximity of Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is hard to beat. From full-day tours and flights to multi-day explorations, there are all kinds of ways to experience the national park, counted among the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. To get there quickly with top-down views, plan a combo tour by land and air, with your choice of helicopter or airplane tour narrated from above by the pilot. You soar over the emerald ribbon of the Colorado River, or view Tonto National Forest and the Red Rocks of Sedona by flying direct. Fly over the South Rim and explore the highlights on a scenic drive around the canyon. Or combine a West Rim helicopter flight with a stroll on the breathtaking Skywalk. 

The Grand Canyon needs no introduction. Considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world, its gorges, ridges, and rock formations must be seen to be believed. Many tours are available, so here’s how to experience exactly what you want when visiting the Grand Canyon from Sedona or Flagstaff. 

Full-Day Tours

If you are based in either Sedona or Flagstaff, you have a range of options for day trips to the Grand Canyon. A typical small-group tour often includes a drive along the South Rim with side visits to other area attractions like Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and Cameron Trading Post. Other options might include a helicopter tour of the West Rim, white-water rafting through the canyon along the Colorado River, or a spectacular flightseeing tour over the Painted Desert and the South Rim.

Rail Tours

One of the most traditional (and romantic) ways to see the Grand Canyon is by rail. The historic Grand Canyon Railroad has been operating for more than a century, and it affords you some time to enjoy the desert scenery of Northern Arizona at a relaxed pace on the 65-mile (105-kilometer) journey to Grand Canyon Depot before exploring Grand Canyon National Park itself.

Things to Know

• Experience the sights of the Grand Canyon by helicopter, airplane, raft, or historic railway.

• Grand Canyon day trips from Sedona and Flagstaff can last between 90 minutes and 17 hours, depending on the option you choose.

• Combine your visit to the Grand Canyon with other Northern Arizona attractions, including a Navajo Indian reservation or nearby national monument.

With 48 hours in Sedona, you can immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of central Arizona. From red rocks and barbecue to vortexes and wine, here are a few ways to make the most of your time in this scenic town.

Day 1: See the main sights

**Morning:**Get acquainted with Sedona on a short tour that introduces you to the area’s top attractions, such as Chapel of the Holy Cross and Oak Creek Canyon. Alternatively, take advantage of the early morning light on a photography tour, and get some tips on capturing the scenery.

**Afternoon:**Head into the rugged countryside to discover the natural landmarks for which Sedona is known. Join a tour that includes Native American sites and ancient rock art; travel by Jeep along the Broken Arrow Trail; visit Cathedral Rock; or follow in the footsteps of cowboys through Dry Creek Basin.

**Night:**Visit Blazin’ M Ranch in Cottonwood for a barbecue dinner and Western-themed entertainment, including roping and live music. Or for something less wholesome, explore the eerie side of the area on a ghost tour in Jerome, an old mining town just past Cottonwood.

Day 2: Enjoy some alternatives

**Morning:**Treat yourself to a helicopter tour above the Sedona high desert, and savor sweeping views of the mountains and red sandstone formations.

**Afternoon:**Experience another side of the region on a wine-tasting Jeep tour. If you prefer to stay in town, hop on a Segway and check out the sights on Jordan Road, stopping by the Sedona Heritage Museum along the way.

**Night:**Embark on an evening safari for the chance to see native wildlife, such as elk and foxes. For something a little more mystical, opt for a sunset vortex tour to learn about this unusual element of Sedona.

A trip to scenic Sedona and its powerful vortexes can be an almost religious experience. With several unique tour options, travelers to this red rock landscape can embark on their own spiritual energy journey in the Southwest. Here is what you need to know about these distinctive Sedona experiences.

What is a Spiritual Vortex?

Vortexes are powerful energy centers where subtle energy flows to or from Earth’s plane. Hidden deep within rock formations, they are an entry point to the mystical world of healing. Sedona has four main vortexes: Cathedral Rock, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Airport Mesa, and Bell Rock. Boynton Canyon vortex is another important spot.

Spiritual Experiences in Sedona

On a spiritual vortex tour in Sedona, you will learn where energy vortexes come from, how they work, and ways to utilize their expansive energy. The Sedona vortex sites offer various experiences, but visitors typically leave with a feeling of serenity. Uncover the history of the vortexes and New Age beliefs held about vortex energy; learn about Native American traditions on a Grand Canyon, Sedona, or Navajo reservation day trip; or choose a tour that offers psychic readings or more in-depth descriptions of the spirituality of the sacred sites. Small-group tours of 15 or fewer travelers ensure a personalized journey.

One day in Phoenix allows you to enjoy the area’s entertainment among downtown skyscrapers, and get out into nature. With its close proximity to Scottsdale and a desert oasis less than one hour from the city, there’s no reason to simply look at nature from afar. Here’s how to make the most of Phoenix in one day.

Morning: Sonoran Desert Sunrise

Rise before dawn for a scenic hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert. Flying high above the Valley of the Sun affords postcard-worthy views, and then celebrate upon landing with a Champagne breakfast. Adventurous visitors seeking more speed can take an ATV ride, which gets you closer to desert canyons, creeks, and cacti. Alternatively, sneak in bird watching and wildlife viewing on a river rafting trip; the Lower Salt River offers easy access, and the whole family can enjoy its lazy Class I “rapids.” Whichever excursion you choose, a morning tour increases your chances of spotting Arizona’s native fauna.

Afternoon: Old Town Scottsdale

Spending time in Scottsdale is a must, and there are myriad ways to experience it. Explore the numerous eateries, shops, and art galleries on foot or by food trolley; zip around on a 2-wheeled electric Segway through Old Town; or combine your sightseeing with a tour of Phoenix highlights such as the majestic Arizona Biltmore and Arizona State Capitol. Alternatively, ride off-road into the desert aboard a 4x4 vehicle. With a guide to lead the way, tours offer commentary on points of interest and often provide hotel pickup and drop-off to make getting to each destination easy.

Night: Evening Lights and Entertainment

The shimmering city lights and desert sunsets from Phoenix are not to be missed. Party-types can book a people-powered party bike that lets passengers drink up in downtown Phoenix or Scottsdale with stops at bars and drink specials. To admire the city skyline from above, take to the skies on an aerial tour that includes sunset views over Camelback. The cliffs and canyons of Tonto National Forest—just two hours away—are teeming with wildlife such as bighorn sheep. Or, complete your day with a scenic boat trip across Saguaro Lake.

Don’t let the soaring summer temperatures in Phoenix keep you from enjoying the city and all it has to offer, from outdoor activities in the Sonoran Desert to indoor attractions shielded from the sun. Here are some ways to find relief when it's hot out.

• Look down on the city in cool tranquility on a sunrise hot-air-balloon ride.

• Explore the desert at night to see the stars and watch for wildlife.

• Swim, splash, and relax on the Salt River on a kayaking or rafting tour.

• Take a cruise on Saguaro Lake to admire desert scenery from the water.

• Cool off outside at Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix water park or inside at SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium.

• Get your hair done, catch a movie, or go shopping in air-conditioned bliss at Scottsdale Fashion Square.

With its easy access to outdoor activities in the surrounding red rocks and canyons, Sedona is a great place for nature enthusiasts to spend a day. Whether you wander the town itself to check out its popular art scene, explore nature, or do a little bit of both, here are some top ways to enjoy 24 hours in Sedona.

Morning: Get an Overview

Start the day on a high note by looking down on the red rock landscape of Sedona on a helicopter tour. You’ll get an aerial perspective of mountains, rock formations, and other natural features before, perhaps, checking them out in more detail later in the day. Alternatively, stay on the ground and get acquainted with scenic Sedona on a short tour that introduces you to the area’s geology and history at attractions such as Chapel of the Holy Cross or Oak Creek Canyon. If you’re interested in capturing beautiful photos, book an early morning photography tour.

Afternoon: Explore the Red Rocks

There are several 2- to 4-hour tours from Sedona that take you into the rugged countryside for a guided exploration. Depending on your interests, opt for an excursion that includes Native American sites and ancient rock art or one that focuses on the area’s mysterious vortexes. Travel by jeep along the Broken Arrow Trail; visit natural formations like Cathedral Rock and Airport Mesa; or follow in the footsteps of cowboys by exploring Dry Creek Basin and surrounding canyons. Alternatively, stay in town and check out Sedona's galleries and bohemian vibe. 

Night: See a Show

Head to nearby Blazin’ M Ranch in Cottonwood for a barbecue dinner and Western-themed entertainment including roping and live music. If you’d rather see a natural show, take an evening safari for the chance to see native wildlife (elk,  foxes, etc.) and enjoy the sunset. Or perhaps discover the eerie side of the area on a ghost tour of Jerome, an old mining town southwest of Sedona.

With three days in Flagstaff, you’ll be able to enjoy charming downtown and still have plenty of time for other adventures. From day trips to the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend to ziplining above pine forests, opportunities for fun abound in this northern Arizona city. Here are a variety of ways to spend three days in Flagstaff. 

Day 1: Sights, Hights, and Wildlife

Start off by getting to know the city on a guided tour of downtown on foot, bike, or Segway. See historic areas and the railroad district, and get personalized recommendations from your guide to help you explore the rest of the area. Once you have the lay of the land, get your adrenaline fix and push your boundaries at an adventure park that has zip lines and challenge courses for both adults and kids.

After enjoying lunch (perhaps at one of the restaurants spotted on your morning tour), head out of town to Bearizona Wildlife Park for a self-driven North American wildlife safari. Take the long way home, and spend the evening in Jerome, where you can join a haunted tour that highlights the spooky side of the historic mining town. 

Day 2: Landscapes to the North

On your second day, head north toward the Utah border, where you’ll find many of Arizona’s most photo-worthy and culturally important attractions. For an outdoor adventure, take a tour that includes off-roading in Antelope Canyon and visiting the Colorado River, Lake Powell, and Glen Canyon. Alternatively, if you want a deep dive into American Indian culture (and views of stunning landscapes), join a tour that heads to Monument Valley. The guided trip traverses the Navajo Nation, and you can see traditional Navajo homes and learn about the nation’s culture and history, then see the park’s towering natural sandstone monuments. 

If you’d rather explore on your own, take a shuttle from Flagstaff to Page. The daily shuttle service offers both morning and afternoon departures and provides access to attractions like Horseshoe Bend and Glen Canyon Dam. Wrap up your evening back in Flagstaff with a guided beer-and-wine tour.

Day 3: The Grandest Views

Save the best for last, and fill your third day with a tour of Arizona’s most famous landmark: the Grand Canyon. The closest viewing spot is just a 1.5-hour drive from Flagstaff, but book a full-day tour to guarantee that you’ll see all the highlights of the South Rim, like the iconic panoramas from Yavapai Point, and also have a chance to explore some of the other lesser-known attractions. Head into the inner gorge to see the Colorado River up close, visit Pueblo ruins, or even book a private Grand Canyon hiking tour and escape the crowds on a scenic trek that includes a picnic lunch with a view. You can also add a helicopter flight to your tour for unmatched photo opportunities. After a busy day exploring the Grand Canyon, return to Flagstaff’s historic downtown for some country music and dancing at the Museum Club, a popular saloon.

Two days in Phoenix means you’ve got options, from city tours of downtown skyscrapers to Scottsdale. With a 2-day itinerary, you also have time to get out of town. Here are a variety of ways to expand your reach, including aerial adventures, desert trips, and scenic lake cruises—maybe even a quick trip to the Grand Canyon.

Day 1: City Sightseeing and Beyond

**Morning:**Get your bearings with a morning tour of Phoenix highlights. Take a sightseeing tour of downtown for a glimpse of the State Capitol building and the grand Arizona Biltmore. You learn about the Phoenix, situated in the Sonoran Desert, and its attractions, including nearby Camelback Mountain.

**Afternoon:**Browse the shops in Old Town Scottsdale on tour by foot or Segway, which enables passengers to cover more ground in less time. Or ride off-road into the desert aboard a 4x4 vehicle. A guided tour allows you to learn about the native flora and fauna.

**Night:**This evening, take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride with sunset views. Alternatively, a cruise on Saguaro Lake (about an hour’s drive from Phoenix) is just as serene. A bit further afield, head to Tonto National Forest, and keep an eye out for cacti, coyotes, and the elusive bighorn sheep.

Day 2: Desert Skies and Grand Vistas

**Morning:**For more time sightseeing and less time driving, take a Grand Canyon aerial tour that sets off in the early hours from Phoenix. En route to the national park, you fly over a much of Arizona’s natural beauty, including Tonto National Forest, San Francisco Peaks, and Red Rocks of Sedona. 

**Afternoon:**If you wish, extend your Grand Canyon tour on the ground with a guided drive around the South Rim. Or fly back to the city and spend some leisurely hours shopping and dining in downtown Phoenix and nearby Scottsdale. The Sea Life Aquarium guarantees cool temps and a calming environment.

**Night:**If you haven’t yet made it into the air, opt for a sunset plane tour of downtown Phoenix landmarks and take in the Valley of the Sun from above. Alternatively, you may simply prefer the serenity of stargazing the night skies with an astronomer.

Surrounded by majestic peaks and desertscapes, Flagstaff is best known as an outdoor adventure mecca and the gateway to the Grand Canyon—but the historic downtown and lively food and beer scene are enough to keep you entertained for the day without even leaving town. Here’s how to spend an adventure-filled day exploring Flagstaff. 

Morning: Highlights and History

Kick off your day in Flagstaff with a discovery of the city’s historic charms on a guided walking, biking, or Segway tour. Don’t waste time finding your way around the city on your own and instead get straight to the local hot spots with a guide to give you personalized tips for restaurants, shopping, and sights. Continue to expand your knowledge of the region's history and culture at the Museum of Northern Arizona to see American Indian artifacts and exhibits that focus on the geology and natural history of the surrounding area. 

Afternoon: Outdoor Thrills

You barely have to leave town to reach the fresh forest air of Flagstaff's Fort Tuthill County Park. Head to Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course to soar above the ponderosa pines on ziplines or push your boundaries on an adventure challenge course. There's a special course designed just for kids ages 7 to 11. Next, head to Bearizona Wildlife Park, a perfect spot to see wildlife while entertaining yourself or the kids on a convenient self-driving tour a half-hour west of Flagstaff. 

Night: Beer, Wine, and (Paranormal) Spirits

A small-group guided beer and wine tour is an ideal way to explore Flagstaff’s many breweries, bars, and restaurants. Travel by bike with a guide to lead the way and make personalized tasting recommendations. While you could spend the whole evening enjoying Flagstaff’s bars with your newfound friends, it's time to discover a different type of spirit. The ghosts of the “Wickedest Town in the West” are waiting for you at the ruins of Jerome, south of Flagstaff. Join a late-night haunted historical tour and walk through the once-booming town while your guide shares spooky stories about your surroundings.

Flagstaff is best known as a gateway to the Grand Canyon, but with two days based in the Northern Arizona adventure hub, you have time to get to know the city’s often overlooked attractions before making a day trip to the famous canyon. Here’s how to maximize your time in Flagstaff and on a trip to the Grand Canyon. 

Day 1: Culture and Adventure

**Morning:**Get acquainted with the city on a guided walking, biking, or Segway tour that introduces you to Flagstaff’s historic downtown in an interactive and informative way. From there, start ramping up the adrenaline with a zipline or challenge course adventure on the outskirts of town at Fort Tuthill County Park.

**Afternoon:**Get out of town and see the mountains and desert landscapes for which the region is known. Book a shuttle from Flagstaff to Page and Lake Powel and let someone else do the driving. Alternatively, tour Bearizona Wildlife Park from your own vehicle. 

**Night:**Wrap up your first day in Flagstaff by biking through the city on a guided tour that introduces you to the city’s beer and wine culture. Or, if beer and wine aren’t your thing, opt for a family-friendly excursion that explores the spooky side of the historic downtown.

Day 2: The Grand Canyon

**Morning:**Get up early for a guided Grand Canyon day trip that hits all the road trip highlights along the way. Take advantage of classic desert photo ops in the morning light and learn about local history at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument. 

**Afternoon:**Stop for lunch and souvenirs at Cameron Trading Post before continuing to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Inside the park, you have time to explore the Rim Trail, which leads to many iconic overlooks and provides vantage points for panoramic photos. 

**Night:**A tour with round-trip transportation means that after sunset at the Grand Canyon, you can rest on the drive back to your hotel. Then, spend your evening relaxing at one of downtown Flagstaff’s breweries or restaurants, enjoying handcrafted beer and locally sourced food. 

Legend has it that Sedona is situated on one or more vortexes, or places where intense energy emanates from the earth. Lore or not, the area is undeniably special with its namesake red desert rock formations, wilderness areas, and incredible photo opportunities. See below for some of the top red rock spots in Sedona.

Oak Creek Vista

For a bird’s-eye view of the red rock formations, the scenic overlook at Oak Creek Vista is a sure winner. This easy-to-access point offers a good vantage spot to capture some of the most photographed views in the region. 

Mt. Wilson

Known as the big boy of the red rocks, Mt. Wilson offers experienced hikers a challenging ascent with up-close views of the famous formations. 

Snoopy Rock

You guessed it—the area’s most recognizable landmark is Mother Nature’s ode to Charles Shultz, named for the iconic cartoon character. 

Red Rock State Park

An essential destination for Sedona visitors, Red Rocks State Park has it all: scenic drives, stunning scenery, trails, and overlooks where you can snap postcard-worthy photos.

Arizona is home to several North American indigenous communities, many of them Navajo. A visit to Arizona offers a chance to learn more about their history and culture. These are just a few of the experiences you shouldn’t miss, including sites you can only see with an American Indian guide.

• Tour Antelope Canyon, a narrow sandstone slot canyon inside the Navajo Nation, with a local Navajo guide.

• Learn about the area’s earliest residents with a walk through the American Indian ruins at Wupatki National Monument.

• Have lunch at an authentic Navajo trading post, known for its fry bread tacos and locally made art and jewelry.

• Marvel at Native American art dating back some seven centuries at the Honanki Heritage Site.

• Experience the natural beauty of Monument Valley on a day trip from Flagstaff or Sedona, stopping at traditional Navajo homes as you travel through the vast Navajo Nation.