Arriving a day before the GC hotel reservation

Question

Hello everyone!

Planning a trip to AZ in a couple of weeks ... kind of last minute! Planning to stay at GC for the two main events: sunset and sunrise the next morning, then on to Sedona for a few days.

This will be my 3rd visit to the GC but this time I'm bringing my husband and will be his first visit. Thankfully we were able to reserve a one night stay Maswik and dinner reservations at El Tovar (after sunset :).

Question:

If we were to fly into Phoenix a day (or two) earlier than our GC hotel reservation, any advice or suggestions with what to do those days? Prescott, Page....? Wild west historical sites, famous formations as seen in western movies, my husband would love. As I already mentioned, after GC we will be heading to Sedona.

Thank you!

Answer

Arriving a day or two before your Grand Canyon hotel stay gives you a nice window to explore some of Arizona’s other scenic and historic sites without feeling rushed. Since your husband is interested in Wild West history and iconic Western landscapes, there are several options depending on how much driving you want to do and what type of experience you prefer.

Options for a day or two before the Grand Canyon stay:

Prescott: About 1.5–2 hours from Phoenix, Prescott offers a charming downtown with historic Whiskey Row, old saloons, and western architecture. You can explore the Sharlot Hall Museum for Arizona frontier history and stroll around the Courthouse Plaza. It’s perfect for a laid-back introduction to Old West culture.
Monument Valley: If you’re willing to drive longer (about 7–8 hours from Phoenix or consider flying into Page), Monument Valley is iconic for Western movies and striking desert landscapes. You can take a guided jeep tour to see the classic formations like the Mittens and Merrick Butte.
Page / Lake Powell: Approximately 4–5 hours from Phoenix, this area offers Glen Canyon Dam tours, boating or kayaking on Lake Powell, and photography opportunities at Rainbow Bridge or Horseshoe Bend. The landscape is dramatic and very cinematic.
Historic Route 66 towns: Consider stopping in towns like Williams or Seligman if you’re interested in vintage Americana. These towns have quirky museums, Route 66 memorabilia, and small historic hotels or diners.
Sedona en route: You could also drive part of the way to Sedona and spend a night there before heading to the Grand Canyon, enjoying the Red Rock Scenic Byway, Chapel of the Holy Cross, or even a short Pink Jeep tour if you have time.

Suggested approach:

Option 1: Spend one night in Prescott to experience the Old West town and then drive to the Grand Canyon the next day.
Option 2: Head toward Page/Lake Powell if your schedule allows more driving and you want dramatic landscapes; then proceed to Grand Canyon Village for your sunset stay.
Option 3: Combine a short Route 66 or Williams stop with Sedona scenery if you prefer a mix of Western history and natural beauty.

Since your Grand Canyon hotel stay is focused on sunset and sunrise, planning a leisurely day in Prescott or Sedona beforehand keeps travel time manageable while giving your husband the Wild West experience he’ll enjoy. Monument Valley is spectacular but requires a longer drive, so it’s best suited if you have two full extra days.

Arriving a day before the GC hotel reservation

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