Best of Arizona
The Grand Canyon State is full of things to do. From the desert of Phoenix to the mountains of Flagstaff to the vistas at the Grand Canyon, Arizona is a unique destination.
Start your trip by flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. One of the
busiest airports in the US, all the major carriers have arrivals in Phoenix.
There are plenty of rental car options located inside the airport.
We recommend spending a few days in the Phoenix metro area. The unique
desert climate is unlike anywhere else in the US. The area has many resorts
to cater to your every need. From swimming pools to spas, shopping to
world-class golf, you'll find what you're looking for in the Sonoran
Desert. Resources can be found here:
Greater
Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau
Scottsdale
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Next, head north on Interstate 17 to Flagstaff. You'll travel about 2 hours and pass through a changing landscape as you ascend to an elevation of about 7,000 feet. The desert changes to pine forest and the temperature changes approximately 25 degrees. Flagstaff is located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks with a beautiful mountain backdrop. The bustling city is the hub of activity in Northern Arizona and is home to Northern Arizona University. You'll find downtown to be very quaint with a selection of restaurants, bars and boutique shopping. We recommend stopping for lunch.
Next, head west on Interstate 40 and travel just over 30 miles, through the forest, to Williams, home of the Grand Canyon Railway. Check-in to the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel for the first of two nights. Enjoy the evening in the small town charm of Williams. The next day, arise and board the Grand Canyon Railway. Take the historic journey on one of five classic classes of service. Arrive at the South Rim and be ready to explore Grand Canyon National Park.
The Railway offers night's stays inside the park as an option.
Later in the afternoon take the train back to Williams and spend your second night at the GCR Hotel.
The following day, head east on Interstate 40 and when you get to Flagstaff
go south on Highway 89-A on you way to Sedona. You'll drive one of Arizona's
most beatiful stretches of roadway to the amazing red-rock country of
Sedona. The highway takes you along Oak Creek Canyon. Along the way,
stop off at Slide Rock State Park or continue into the quaint shopping
district of downtown Sedona. There are many things to do in Sedona. Here
is a resource:
Sedona Chamber of
Commerce
Later in the day, continue back to metro Phoenix by taking Highway 179 to Interstate 17 south and spend another night in the Sonoran Desert. After you conclude your stay, you'll once again take off from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.