Sedona - Thanksgiving 2024 trip report

Question

Hello, Happy Thanksgiving to all. Learned so much from this grp so thought I would put in an update that maybe helpful.

1. Landed In Phoenix last Friday. Everything was efficient except Budget car rental that was a nightmare, despite us having a membership and speed check out. Luckily, we were staying near the airport because the car had to be swapped out twice with insane lines each time.

2. We got no traffic going from Phx to Page on Friday and then returning to Phx on Friday after thanksgiving as well. Phew!

3. Antelope Canyon: long drive from Phoenix, but GO if you have time it was unbelievably beautiful.

4. Wupataki ruins was a great stop on the long drive. Did not enjoy the food at Cameron Trading post. Enjoyed some shopping there though.

5. Stayed one night inside the Grand Canyon Park. I’m so glad we did. Desert view sunset was spectacular!

6. RedRox: thank you for the repeated warnings about not driving in the dark. The road from Page to Sedona was very winding with sharp turns. Thank goodness we were driving during daylight hours.

7. Sedona was breathtaking but when we return( we most definitely will) it wont be during Thanksgiving. Just too crowded at most places.

8. Pink Jeep Broken Arrow tour was a major highlight. I had never experienced anything so unique. Highly recommend this.

9. Most importantly there were great GF options on this trip for my daughter who has celiac. Picazzo’s Pizza was outstanding!

Cannot wait to return someday. Until then safe travels everyone and thanks for the feedback.

Answer

Thank you for sharing your detailed Thanksgiving 2024 trip report! Your experience provides a lot of useful insights for anyone planning a similar Arizona itinerary, especially over a busy holiday period.

Here’s a summary and key takeaways based on your report:

Car Rental & Airport Logistics: Budget car rental at Phoenix Airport can be unpredictable—even with memberships and expedited service. Staying near the airport is a good strategy to minimize stress in case of delays or vehicle issues.
Traffic: Surprisingly light traffic both on your Friday drive from Phoenix to Page and the Friday after Thanksgiving returning to Phoenix. This is encouraging for planning similar trips, though it’s always wise to check real-time conditions during holidays.
Antelope Canyon: A must-visit if you have time; despite the long drive from Phoenix, the scenery is exceptional. Consider booking in advance for guided tours to maximize your experience.
Wupatki Ruins: Excellent stop on long drives, with opportunities for light exploration and photography. The nearby Cameron Trading Post offers shopping options, though dining may not be standout.
Grand Canyon Stay: Staying overnight inside the park allows you to catch spectacular views, like the Desert View sunset. Highly recommended for a more relaxed experience and to avoid long day trips from farther locations.
Driving Safety: Roads from Page to Sedona are winding with sharp turns. Daylight driving is strongly advised; your experience validates the common recommendation against driving in the dark in this region.
Sedona Highlights: Breathtaking scenery, but Thanksgiving week can be crowded. Planning a return trip outside major holidays would offer a more relaxed experience.
Pink Jeep Broken Arrow Tour: Major highlight of the trip, providing a unique off-road adventure and unforgettable views. Highly recommended for first-time visitors to Sedona.
Gluten-Free Dining: Picazzo’s Pizza and other GF options are excellent for visitors with dietary restrictions, making Sedona more accessible for families managing celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Overall, your Thanksgiving trip demonstrates that careful planning—early starts, daylight driving, and overnight stays in key locations—can make for a smooth and rewarding itinerary despite holiday crowds. Your tips on tours, dining, and road safety will be extremely helpful for future travelers to Arizona, particularly families and those visiting multiple natural attractions.

Key Recommendations for Future Travelers Based on Your Experience:

Book car rentals in advance and allow buffer time for potential issues, especially at busy airports.
Consider overnight stays in major parks like the Grand Canyon to avoid rushed day trips.
Plan drives during daylight hours for safety and better scenery photography.
Book popular tours (e.g., Pink Jeep) early to secure spots and avoid disappointment.
Research dietary-friendly restaurants if traveling with special needs; Sedona offers good GF options.

Thanks again for sharing your experience—it’s both informative and encouraging for others planning a similar Arizona adventure!