When you’ve traveled to five continents and seen sights worldwide, it can be easy to overlook what’s in your backyard. For me, that was a trip to Arizona. I’ve always wanted to have a west coast road trip but found some excuse to put it off. Arizona has lots to offer, like the Grand Canyon, Red Rocks, and more! It can be overwhelming to decide where to go, but don’t worry! Here’s the best Arizona road trip for a 10 day itinerary.
Things To Know Before Planning a Trip To Arizona
It should go without saying, but you absolutely need a car for this trip. I recommend this for anyone visiting Arizona, as public transportation is virtually non-existent. If you don’t plan on renting a car, stick to one or two towns. Using this itinerary, you won’t drive longer than 4 hours in one day. As a solo traveler, I was going on my own and wanted to spend my time experiencing and not behind the wheel. Some things have been cut out for this very reason. But you’ll still have a fantastic time, trust me!
Arizona Itinerary 10-Day Road Trip
Glendale
Days 1-3
Fly into the PHX airport and head to Glendale, Arizona, home to the cardinals. Super Bowl LVII is being hosted in Glendale, so there are many things to do. See what I got up to and why you should add it to your list.
Sedona
Days 3-5
It’s time to see the red rocks with a 2-hour drive to Sedona! So pack up your things and head north to a town known for its spirituality, spas, and scenery. Sedona was high on my list for this trip, and my experience was pleasant, but keep reading for something that often gets overlooked.
Hiking
Everyone comes to Sedona for the views, and if you’re not a big hiker, I have a list of places you can go without breaking too much of a sweat.
- Bell Rock
- Cathedral Rock
- Amitabha Stupa Peace Park
- Airport Mesa
I didn’t get a chance to stop by, but I’ve heard great things about the Tlaquepaque Art & Shopping Village. Not only is it great for photos, but you can also shop to your heart’s content!
Stay & Spa
I stayed at Amara Resort in Sedona, and I highly recommend it. The service was fabulous, the view was unparalleled, and the location was top-notch. You are right in the middle of downtown Sedona and can easily walk to have a bite to eat, buy some crystals, or soak up the view.
I’d be remiss not to mention how I felt as a black woman in this space, as Sedona is predominantly white. My experience with the people in Sedona was that they were courteous, not kind. I never felt unsafe, but I also did not feel welcome. I still encourage people to go there, but if I were to do it again, I’d visit for a day trip or just one night. Outside of hiking and some light shopping, there wasn’t enough to justify two days.
Williams
Days 5-7
It’s time to see the Grand Canyon. On this route, you’ll visit the Grand Canyon from the South Rim entrance and stay in a nearby town called Williams, AZ. I loved my stay at Backland. Because the Grand Canyon is an hour away from the hotel, I suggest having two nights just in case you want to visit again. Your pass allows you to enter multiple times. Also, on your way to the Grand Canyon, stop by Raptor Ranch, an amusement park dedicated to the Flinstones!
Page
Days 7-9
If you thought the Grand Canyon was impressive, wait until your next stop in Page, Arizona. The drive is three hours from Backland to Hyatt Page, where I stayed during my visit. Hyatt Page is one of the best hotels in the area and has breathtaking views from every angle. The staff takes excellent care of you, and with limited restaurant options in the area, it was nice having a Starbucks downstairs and a complimentary breakfast every morning. Similar to your drive from Phoenix to Sedona, the views from Williams to Page are immaculate, with a drive through the forest and ending with Antelope Canyon.
The top of your list should be a visit to Antelope Canyon. I had this arranged by my hotel, I love how they hired locals to run the tours, who provided an in-depth presentation on how the canyons survived throughout the years. Did you know it is illegal to take videos inside the canyon? This is due to copyright issues, so you’re only allowed to take photos!
Horseshoe Bend
I saved this for last, as it was a quick hike in and out. It’s manageable for those who aren’t interested in breaking a sweat. I recommend going for sunrise, as the crowds are minimal, and you’ll be facing the right direction.
Lake Powell
I kayaked Lake Powell using Lake Powell Paddleboards and Kayaks. For $65, I got all-day access to a single kayak to explore. It’s a unique experience I recommend to anyone wanting to kayak between caves. Something to keep in mind is that you’ll be kayaking around speed boats and jet skis, so that the water can be choppy in some areas. If you’re a beginner kayaker, go with a guided tour to get the whole experience.
Phoenix
Days 9-10
It’s time to head back to Phoenix, which will take four hours. I spent an extra day in Phoenix, so technically, it was 11 days, but one night will be enough. I used this time to relax at my resort, have a spa day, and reflect on my epic trip!
Stay & Play
JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort: This is hands down the best resort I’ve ever stayed at in the states. When I stepped into the grand lobby, I felt like I had been transported to the Caribbean; it’s enormous! As you can see from my content below, this is somewhere that’s worth the splurge after a whole week of hiking. Make sure to have dinner at the IG Worthy Tia Carmen!
Wonderspaces Arizona: An interactive museum experience inside Scottsdale Fashion Square
The Mission Kierland: A modern twist on Latin cuisine; make sure to get the table-side guacamole!
Century Grand: Three bars under one roof with a cocktail experience you can’t miss. Check out my video on Platform 18.
As you can see, this jam-packed Arizona itinerary has something for everyone. So make sure to follow me on all social platforms to stay up to date on where I am in the world!
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