Downtown Phoenix to Grand Canyon

Question

We are staying downtown Phoenix for 9 nights. Monday Feb 17th we plan on driving to the Grand Canyon. We have a room booked in Williams for the night on the 17th. What is the best route to get there and back? Will do the trip over 2 days

Answer

Driving from downtown Phoenix to the Grand Canyon with an overnight in Williams is a very doable two-day trip. Here’s a detailed breakdown of routes, stops, and tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Best Route to Williams:

The most direct and commonly used route from Phoenix to Williams is via I-17 north:

Take I-17 North from downtown Phoenix toward Flagstaff. This is approximately a 2.5–3 hour drive to Flagstaff, depending on traffic.
Optional stop: Sunset Point Rest Area or Montezuma Castle National Monument along I-17 can provide short breaks and photo opportunities.
From Flagstaff, take I-40 West toward Williams. This final leg is about 30–40 minutes.
Total driving time is roughly 4–4.5 hours, not counting stops.

Williams to Grand Canyon South Rim:

Take AZ-64 North from Williams, which is a scenic 1-hour drive to the South Rim entrance of Grand Canyon National Park.
Along the way, you can stop at viewpoints or small towns like Tusayan for refreshments.
The park entrance fee is per vehicle; check current rates and have your pass ready.

Return Route to Phoenix:

You have a couple of options for returning to Phoenix on the second day:

Option 1: Return via Williams and I-40/I-17: Head back south on AZ-64 to Williams, then I-40 East to Flagstaff, and I-17 South to Phoenix. This retraces your steps and is simple if you prefer familiar roads.
Option 2: Scenic Alternate via Sedona: From the Grand Canyon South Rim, drive south on AZ-64 to AZ-89A through Flagstaff and Oak Creek Canyon into Sedona. This route adds a couple of hours but provides stunning red rock scenery. From Sedona, continue south on I-17 back to Phoenix.

Tips for the Trip:

Leave Phoenix early Monday morning to maximize your time at the Grand Canyon and to arrive in Williams before evening.
Williams is a small town with restaurants and lodging; it’s a convenient stop for overnight rest and breakfast before heading to the canyon.
At the Grand Canyon South Rim, consider using the park shuttle system to access multiple viewpoints if you don’t want to drive inside the park.
Check weather conditions in February, as snow or ice can affect driving, especially around Flagstaff and the canyon rim. Carry chains or check local road advisories if needed.
Fill your gas tank in Flagstaff or Williams, as services inside the park are limited.

Summary:

Day 1: Phoenix → Williams via I-17 North to I-40 West (4–4.5 hours). Overnight in Williams.
Day 2: Williams → Grand Canyon South Rim via AZ-64 North (1 hour), explore the canyon. Return via I-40/I-17 for fastest route or AZ-89A through Sedona for scenic return (approx. 4–5 hours depending on route).

This plan balances driving time with sightseeing, making it a comfortable and memorable two-day trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon and back.