We recently did a 7-day road trip in Arizona, and it was INCREDIBLE. We flew in and out of Phoenix, AZ and visited Sedona, Page, The Grand Canyon, and Scottsdale! My favorite by far was kayaking to Antelope Canyon in Page. Below is a list of our must do, must eat, must stay recommendations for each location, as well as a daily itinerary if you want to follow our exact trip!
Sedona, Arizona
Things To Do
• Soldiers Pass Trail: This is a 4.5 mile out and back trail. The trail itself is pretty easy, but gets more moderate once you get to the cave (which is a must). You will climb up some steep rocks to get into the cave, and you can also go on top of the cave by scaling the side of the cave and climbing up some more rocks. The view is AMAZING and so worth it.
• Devils Bridge Trail: This is a 3.9 mile out and back trail. It is pretty flat for the first little bit, then requires some uphill + climbing towards the end. I would consider it moderate. Once you reach Devils Bridge at the top, there is usually a line of people waiting to have their picture taken (I would suggest getting there first thing in the morning), but at least it gives you time to soak in the view! I was SO NERVOUS watching everyone walk out onto the bridge, but it is much wider than it looks and I felt very safe once I got on the bridge!
• Cathedral Rock Trail: This is a quick, 1.2 mile out and back trail! We sadly ran out of time (due to having to go buy new hiking shoes) but it is a favorite by many in Sedona! I have heard the hike up is pretty steep, so make sure you are wearing shoes with a good grip! You will have a beautiful view of some of the red rock formations, and the hike can be done in about an hour.
• Chapel Of The Holy Cross: This is a beautiful church that sits on top of the red rocks in Sedona. You can drive right up to the chapel and park your car, so it can be a quick stop! The church itself is small, with only a few pews. It has a HUGE window with Jesus hanging on the cross. You have to be quiet upon entering, so it is a great time to just reflect, pray, or just soak in the beauty. Entry is free.
• ATV Riding: You can do an ATV guided tour or just rent your own ATV for either a 1/2 day (4 hours) or full day (8 hours)! We did a 1/2 day rental with Red Rock ATV Rentals and it was so fun! They give you a map and GPS for all the different trails, which were super easy to follow! Some of them are NO JOKE though, like you will be climbing straight up rocky boulder trails - it was an adrenaline rush for sure! The total cost for Luke and myself was $392, but it was a fun way to explore more of Sedona!
• Hot Air Balloon Ride: I surprised Luke with a hot air balloon ride our last morning in Sedona. Honestly I'm not sure why, because I'm usually terrified of heights - but it was surprisingly peaceful once we were up in the air! I would compare it to flying in a plane. You're really high up in the air, but you feel safe because you trust the pilot and you're just floating. Our pilot was so entertaining and answered any and all questions we had! We used Red Rock Balloons and it was $225 per person. They pick you up from your hotel, and you get champagne at the end of your ride! It was SUCH a cool experience, and definitely glad we splurged on this in Sedona!
Places To Eat
• The Hudson ($$): The Hudson was a bit of an upscale + chic vibe inside, but I definitely didn't feel out of place with my mom jeans on! They also have an outdoor patio with a beautiful view. It was super cute and the food was SO GOOD. You absolutely must get the House Smoked Salmon Bruschetta! Trust me on that one. You can make a reservation online as well.
• Creekside American Bistro ($$): Creekside serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; which all looked fantastic! We went for dinner and split the Seafood for 2 meal, however the menu changes pretty frequently. There is a beautiful view, so sit outside if weather permits! Reservations are recommended.
• Mariposa ($$$): We didn't go to Mariposa, but it was highly recommended to us! They serve tapas and Latin inspired food. It is definitely an upscale atmosphere, and they do have a dress code. Reservations are required.
• Creekside Coffee: "A brew with a view." Need I say more? We went on our way out of town and had some delicious lattes. They also serve small bites (toasts, breakfast sandwiches, etc.)
• Oak Creek Brewing Co: If you like beer (like Luke does) then you will love Oak Creek Brewing Co! It was a tiny brewery but definitely had a cute, lively atmosphere, especially if you are able to sit outside on the patio. Luke LOVED the beer he got (Snake Charmer IPA) and it was the perfect stop before dinner one night!
Where To Stay
• Sky Rock Inn ($$): This is where Luke and I stayed while visiting Sedona. Not only was it the PERFECT location and so close to everything, but it was super cute and they had continental breakfast! It seems to be an older motel that has recently been renovated into more of a boutique hotel. The room decor added a nice touch, and the common area balconies were great to sit and relax at night time! It was also one of the more affordable hotels we found in Sedona.
• Enchantment Resort ($$$): This resort looks like A DREAM. It is just wayyy more on the pricy side for us! But if you have the money to spend, or if you're going for a honeymoon and want to splurge a bit.. WOW. That's all I have to say!
• Airbnb ($-$$$): Airbnb is always one of my favorite options when traveling, just because of the prices and comfort! Sedona has some GREAT, affordable airbnb options - we just sadly booked too last minute and they were all taken. But if you're booking in advance, this is a great option! Here a few of my favs in the area; for a couple, small group, or a large group!
Page, Arizona
Things To Do
• Horseshoe Bend: Don't get me wrong, it is a BEAUTIFUL view.. but that's about all it is if I'm being honest! It costs $10 to park, then you walk for about 5-10 minutes on a flat trail (wouldn't consider it a hike), and then you're at the top of Horseshoe Bend! It can get pretty crowded, and the gnats are AWFUL. But it's definitely beautiful and worth it for the gram. I would just only do it if you're going to be in Page already, and midday is the best time to go because the sun is directly above shining on the river.
• Antelope Canyon: There are 2 parts to Antelope canyon; upper canyon and lower canyon. The upper canyon requires booking a walking tour, but is currently closed due to Covid. The lower canyon is currently OPEN, but only accessible via water! We booked a 2 person, tandem kayak via Lake Powell Paddleboards and Kayaks, and had it a full day for $70 (single kayaks are $55 for the day). Kayak tours are available, but we really enjoyed just renting and having the freedom to go our own pace! Even if the upper canyon was open, I would do the kayak option 100x over again. We started first thing in the morning, and were the FIRST people to arrive on shore! A lot of people were arriving when we were heading out, so I'd recommend getting there first thing. It was truly the most incredible, peaceful, beautiful experience. You can also bring your dog with you!
Places To Eat
• El Tapatio: If you want super tasty, authentic Mexican food - El Tapatio is the place to go! Luke got a margarita and I got a piña colada, and both were SUPER tasty!! Queso is a MUST obviously.
• Sunset 89: This is an Island Pacific cuisine restaurant, with an AMAZING sunset view- so definitely sit outside if weather permits and go in time to watch the sunset! Our friends went and they said the Prickly Pear Mule and appetizers (specifically the Brussels and Dumplings) were super tasty. The entrees + inside atmosphere are decent, but it's worth it to go and watch the sunset! I mean, it is called Sunset 89 after all?
Where To Stay
• Hyatt Place Page ($): They opened this location in 2018, so it was super nice, modern, and clean! They have great amenities; such as a lobby bar, pool, big patio with a view, and fitness center. The price is also SUPER affordable, breakfast is included, and they're PET FRIENDLY! It was also a 2 minute drive to the Kayak rental place, which was a plus for our 8:30 am start!
The Grand Canyon (South Rim)
Things To Do
• Watch the sunrise: Enough said! It's beautiful and so peaceful.
• South Kaibab Trail: This hike is STUNNING the entire time! The switchbacks are so cool, and the views are just unreal. The hike is definitely tough, because what goes down must come up! Going down wasn't difficult in my opinion, but coming back up is no joke because you're going completely uphill. There are a few different view points / turn around points (although you can turn around at any point since it's an out and back trail). We went all the way down to Skeleton Point, which was 6.3 miles round trip. You can also do a 1.7 mile total hike to Ooh Aah Point, or a 2.8 mile out and back hike to Cedar Ridge. We packed a LOT of water, snacks, and lunch to eat at Skeleton Point before we started the track back up! I have never felt so accomplished after we finished this hike! It was absolutely worth it. Just remember to soak it all in and take one step at a time. *Cue Jordin Sparks. The best way to get to the trailhead is by parking at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, and taking the free shuttle to the trailhead.
• Bright Angel Trail: This is one of the other main hiking trails at The Grand Canyon, but we were only there for 1 day so we did South Kaibab instead! My friend hiked this trail recently (as well as South Kaibab) and said it's a little bit easier than South Kaibab because of all of the switchbacks, making it not as steep, BUT you don't really get as many different scenery views until a few miles down the trail! But it is one of the top trails, so I'm sure it's absolutely breathtaking as well! It is also an out and back trail, meaning you can turn around at any point.
Places To Eat
• El Tovar Dining Room: We went here for breakfast after watching the sunrise, and it was so yummy! It has a very historic, relaxing, mountain lodge feel, and we lucked out with a seat right by the window + fireplace, so it felt extra cozy. They are known for their giant cinnamon rolls, which I recommend splitting with someone so you can try it! Coffee and/or hot chocolate is a must for breakfast time. We also had room service from El Tovar Dining Room for dinner the night before, and it was also great! Be sure to make a reservation if you want to go for dinner, because the walk in wait time was really long. We went right when they opened for breakfast and didn't have to wait at all luckily.
• Yavapai Tavern: This is a super laid back atmosphere; with burgers, pizza, and GREAT beer. They have a big patio with fireplaces, which I believe is all they are offering at the moment due to Covid. It's the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a nice meal after hiking!
Where To Stay
• El Tovar ($$): This is where we stayed and it is SO beautiful and historic. It was built in 1905 and sits directly on the rim of the Grand Canyon. We lucked out and got a room here pretty last minute (thanks to a cancellation) and it was definitely worth the pricing to stay inside the rim! The room itself is definitely not fancy by any means, but it was definitely worth the price in my opinion to stay inside the rim! We just rolled out of bed in the morning, stepped outside, and watched the sunrise.
• Other Hotels Within The Rim ($-$$): There are 5 hotels located inside the rim that vary pretty significantly with pricing. Some have shared bathrooms, some don't have AC, etc. so it really just depends on what amenities you care about! Luckily, you can see all availability & pricing when searching for your dates.
• Airbnb ($): If you don't mind driving about 30-45 min to get to The Grand Canyon, and want a "glamping experience", there are some SUPER CUTE and affordable airbnbs in Grand Canyon Junction. These are a few of my favorites: Desert Dome Stargazer (sleeps 4), Love Hub Camper (sleeps 2), Tiny Castle (sleeps 2).
Scottsdale, Arizona
Things To Do
• Hike Camelback Mountain: We didn't end up hiking in Scottsdale, since it was our last stop on the trip and we were EXHAUSTED. But I've always heard Camelback Mountain is a great hike if visiting the Scottsdale/Phoenix area. It offers beautiful 360º views, and it's the highest peak in Phoenix! There are 2 trails at Camelback; Echo Canyon (2.5 miles out & back) and Cholla (2.6 miles out & back). They are both marked as difficult because of the steep inclines and rock climbs. Be sure to take LOTS of water, and start early before the sun gets too brutal!
• Old Town Scottsdale: Old Town is the main strip of Scottsdale. There are tons of cute bars, restaurants, & shops, and you can spend as much or as little time there as you want walking around.. OR riding a scooter! Vroom vroom!
• Pool Day: What better way to cool off from the desert heat than with a pool day?! We had a pool day at Hotel Adeline and it was absolutely perfect! They have cabanas available to rent, and a poolside bar! A few other top pools in the area are Māyā DayClub (more of a party vibe), Hotel Valley Ho, and W Scottsdale!
• Scottsdale Fashion Square: Get in loser, we're going shopping ;) If you're in the mood to shop til you drop, definitely head over to Scottsdale Fashion Square. It's essentially a huge shopping complex with over 240 stores & restaurants; including Anthropology, Free People, Lululemon, Madewell, Crate & Barrel, and so much more! Click here for a full directory!
Places To Eat
• Morning Squeeze (Brunch): Super tasty food, and the CUTEST retro diner atmosphere! They had oldies music playing the whole time as well. It's right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, so it's the perfect place for brunch before exploring!
• Hash Kitchen (Brunch): Possibly the best brunch I've had in my entire life. I would rate the atmosphere 7/10 (they have a few locations, we went to Gainey Village which was about 10 minutes north of Old Town and in a shopping center) but MY GOSH the food is incredible!! Food and experience were 10/10. We shared a mimosa flight, which was SO TASTY. Luke got the Short Rib Hash and I got Cannoli pancakes, which was perfect because we each got to try a little sweet + savory. They are also known for their Bloody Mary bar! Be prepared for a wait on the weekend!
• Berdenas (Coffee): This was a super cute and tasty coffee shop in Old Town! Perfect for a grab and go pick me up, or to sit and stip for a bit!
• Sugar Bowl (Ice Cream Sundaes): Get your camera ready! This pink, retro diner is straight out of Pinterest! They serve food, but most people (myself included) go for the ice cream sundaes! Located in the heart of Old Town.
• Ruze Cake House (Bubble Tea): This was one stop I had on my list that we sadly didn't make it to. We were so full from eating our way through Scottsdale that my belly had no more room. It's located in the Arts District and they serve sweet treats, including macarons and crazy, over the top boba teas! I'm talking with cotton candy on top (*insert mind blown emoji)
• The Montauk (Brunch or Dinner): The Montauk is a super trendy, west-coast inspired restaurant in the heart of Old Town! We went for dinner and LOVED their bowls + cocktails! Whether you sit inside or outside, the atmosphere is awesome!
• Diego Pops (Dinner): This was probably the number one recommended restaurant I received, and it was definitely worth the hype! We had to wait about an hour for our table, but we were able to order drinks + an appetizer and sit in the outdoor patio bar while waiting! Which speaking of... GET THE STREET CORN QUESO. Trust me. We went on Taco Monday (unknowingly) so all tacos were $3! GREAT food and such a fun, lively atmosphere! Also located on the main Old Town strip.
Where To Stay
• Hotel Adeline ($): This is where we stayed and I could not recommend it more! Not only was it the most affordable hotel option I found in Scottsdale, it was SO CUTE!!!! They have a lobby bar & restaurant, a Palm Springs vibe pool with cabanas available to rent, an outdoor pool bar (piña coladas were 10/10), plus tons of cute insta worth spots around the hotel! It's less than a mile to the heart of Old Town, so you can easily drive or catch a quick uber ride!
7-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Sedona
11:00 am - Fly into Phoenix and pick up Thrifty rental car
11:30 am - Drive from PHX to Sedona
2:00 pm - Afternoon hike at Soldiers Pass Trail
5:00 pm - Check into Sky Rock Inn // Shower & freshen up
6:00 pm - Drinks at Oak Creek Brewing Co. before dinner
7:00 pm - Dinner at The Hudson
8:30 pm - Pick up groceries for the week at Bashas'
Day 2: Sedona
9:30 am - Morning hike at Devils Bridge
11:00 am - Visit Chapel of the Holy cross
11:30 am - Grab a quick lunch
1:00 pm - 1/2 day ATV Ride Rental
5:15 pm - Hike Cathedral Rock
6:30 pm - Hotel to shower
7:30 pm - Dinner at Creekside American Bistro
Day 3: Sedona >> Page
6:30 am - Hot Air Balloon Ride
11:00 am - Creekside Coffee on the way out of town
12:00 pm - Drive to Page // have random road side photo shoots like we did ;)
3:00 pm - Horseshoe Bend
4:00 pm - Check into Hyatt Hotel and relax + freshen up
6:00 pm - Dinner at Sunset 89
Day 4: Page >> Grand Canyon
8:30 am - Kayak on Lake Powell to Antelope Canyon
1:00 pm - Lunch at El Tapatio
2:15 pm - Drive to The Grand Canyon
6:00 pm - Watch the sunset at The Grand Canyon & SOAK IT ALL IN
8:00 pm - Dinner at Yavapai Tavern
Day 5: Grand Canyon >> Scottsdale
6:15 am - RISE & SHINE! Watch the sunrise (time varies depending on time of year)
7:00 am - Breakfast at El Tovar
9:00 am - Hike South Kaibab to Skeleton Point (eat packed lunch at Skeleton Point)
2:00 pm - Drive to Scottsdale
6:00 pm - Check in Hotel Adeline // Shower & freshen up
7:00 pm - Dinner at The Montauk
Day 6: Scottsdale
10:00 am - Brunch at The Morning Squeeze
11:30 am - Walk around + explore Old Town
1:00 pm - Coffee pick me up at Berdenes
2:00 pm - Pool day at Hotel Adeline
6:00 pm - Dinner at Diego Pops
8:30 pm - Ice Cream Sundae at Sugar Bowl
Day 7: Scottsdale
10:00 am - Brunch at Hash Kitchen
12:00 pm - Explore the Fashion District
2:00 pm - Grab a Boba Tea / Sweet Treat at Ruze Cake House
2:30 pm - Stop by Papago Park for a #basic Cactus pic (you know you want one)
3:30 pm - Return Rental Car
5:30 pm - Fly Home *womp womp womp*
Additional Tips:
• We booked our rental car through Expedia! The cheapest option was via Thrifty Car Rental, and we had zero issues! We got our car quickly, had no surprise fees, and the car was super reliable!
• If you are driving from Page to The Grand Canyon, the GPS will try to take you down a dirt service road. I'm not sure if it's usually a route - but when we went the road was CLOSED and not accessible.. We had to go all the way back down to Flagstaff and over, which added an hour to our route that we weren't prepared for.
• This trip can be done in so many different orders! We originally were going to do Scottsdale first and Grand Canyon last, then drive straight to the airport our last day. However hotels ended up being a good bit cheaper when I reversed the trip! So if you want to save the most money, look into different routes - because hotels are different prices depending on nights. You can either work your way up then drive back down, or drive up at the beginning and work your way down!
I hope you have as much fun as we did on our trip!!! Feel free to DM or email me any questions, and tag me in your pics if you do anything from our itinerary!
Xo,
Blaire