Traveling from Phoenix to Grand Canyon with stop in Sedona

Question

We will be going to Grand Canyon end of March. We are flying into Phoenix at night and heading towards Grand Canyon the next day. As we are traveling to GC, I noticed that it takes us awfully close to Sedona. I'm wondering if it's worth it to drive through Sedona and if so, what stops in Sedona are worth it? We are not able to spend the night, so it would just be a quick stop/drive through. Any good lunch or dinner spots? What's the best scenic drive through? Any recommendations are greatly appreciated!

Answer

Driving through Sedona on your way from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon can be a very worthwhile detour, even if you only have a few hours. The town is famous for its stunning red rock formations, scenic drives, and unique art and dining options. A quick stop will give you a taste of Sedona’s beauty and allow for some memorable photos.

For a brief visit, here are some highlights and tips:

Scenic Drive: Take the Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179) for a short but iconic drive through the red rock landscape. This route is very photogenic and offers pullouts for quick stops.
Cathedral Rock: One of Sedona’s most famous formations. Even if you don’t have time for a hike, the parking area and short viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities.
Chapel of the Holy Cross: A quick stop to see this architectural gem built into the rocks. There’s a small parking lot and it only takes 15–20 minutes to visit.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village: If you want a quick walk, this outdoor shopping area has art galleries, boutiques, and some restaurants. It’s a nice place to stretch your legs.

For a quick meal, you might consider:

The Hudson: Casual spot with great views of the red rocks and good sandwiches, salads, and burgers.
Creekside American Bistro: Offers more substantial meals with outdoor seating and red rock views.
Picnic Option: Grab takeout from a café or deli and enjoy a quick picnic at a scenic viewpoint along Highway 179.

Timing and logistics:

Plan for 1.5–2 hours in Sedona if you want to do a short scenic drive and one or two stops for photos or lunch.
March is a great time as the weather is mild, so outdoor viewpoints are very comfortable.
Make sure to check parking availability at popular stops like Cathedral Rock and Chapel of the Holy Cross, especially on weekends.

Overall, a brief stop in Sedona en route to the Grand Canyon will add scenic variety to your trip and is highly recommended. You won’t get the full experience of hiking trails or galleries, but you’ll still capture the essence of the area.

Traveling from Phoenix to Grand Canyon with stop in Sedona

More Arizona (AZ) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions