Last min trip

Question

Hello all,

Want to get your input on the following itinerary and some recommendations. Nothing has been set in stone yet, I've already look to see if tours/lodging is available mainly at GC and it is. We're flying out next week (sigh I know i know) arriving...

Thursday @ 730am (Phx) so we plan on heading to Sedona do the pink jeep tour and hang out.

Fri morning head to Page go to Antelope, Horseshoe Bend and whatever else we stumble across.

Sat head to GC spend day/night.

Sun head back to Phx hang out

Mon night fly out

Does this sound like a plan and are there any must see or eat on these routes? Again nothing is set in stone, we just wanted to take a quick mini vacay before peak season.

Answer

Your last-minute Arizona trip itinerary is ambitious but doable if you’re comfortable with long drives and a fast-paced schedule. Here’s a detailed assessment and some recommendations along your route.

Thursday – Phoenix to Sedona

Arriving at 7:30am gives you plenty of time to pick up a rental car and drive the ~2 hours to Sedona. The Pink Jeep Tour is a great choice for first-time visitors; it offers off-road access to iconic red rock formations. After the tour, you can explore a few short hikes or scenic viewpoints like Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock.

Consider lunch at a casual spot like The Hudson or Wildflower Bread Company for good food with a view.
If time permits, stop at Slide Rock State Park for a short walk or photo opportunity, though swimming might be chilly in early spring.

Friday – Sedona to Page

The drive to Page is about 3.5–4 hours, so leaving early is key. Your main attractions are Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

Book a guided tour for Antelope Canyon in advance; Upper Antelope is the most photogenic but requires a reservation.
Horseshoe Bend is free to visit with a short hike (~0.75 miles round trip). Sunset is spectacular if you can time it right.
If you have extra time, consider Lake Powell viewpoints or a short boat rental if available.

Saturday – Grand Canyon

Driving to the Grand Canyon from Page takes about 2.5–3 hours. Focus on the South Rim for classic viewpoints and accessibility.

Stop at Desert View Drive for multiple overlooks on the way.
Popular viewpoints: Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hopi Point for sunrise/sunset photography.
If time allows, take a short rim hike (Rim Trail is mostly flat and accessible) rather than venturing down into the canyon.
Dining: El Tovar Dining Room offers a classic Grand Canyon experience; or Mather Point Café for a casual option.

Sunday – Return to Phoenix

Driving back to Phoenix takes around 3.5–4 hours. Consider stopping in Flagstaff or Oak Creek Canyon for breakfast or lunch.

Flagstaff options: Diablo Burger, Beaver Street Brewery, or Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery.
Oak Creek Canyon scenic drive offers quick pull-offs for photos and short walks.

Overall, your itinerary covers the highlights well, but keep in mind it is a lot of driving and sightseeing in a short period. Prioritize what matters most (Pink Jeep Tour, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon viewpoints) and be flexible with timing to avoid feeling rushed. Packing snacks, water, and comfortable walking shoes will make the trip smoother and more enjoyable.

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