Best itinerary for a week long trip to Arizona

Question

My husband and I will fly into Arizona and are looking for recommendations for renting a car and visiting all the best sites. We are active and also open to off the beaten path sites as well.

Answer

For a week-long trip to Arizona, renting a car is essential, as many of the state’s best attractions are spread out and public transportation is limited. Flying into Phoenix or Tucson is usually the easiest starting point, depending on your planned route. A mid-size SUV is recommended if you plan to explore some off-the-beaten-path areas or do light hiking, especially in national parks.

Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances iconic landmarks with less crowded sites, designed for active travelers who enjoy both hiking and scenic drives:

Day 1 – Phoenix / Scottsdale: Pick up your rental car and explore the Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, or take a hike in Camelback Mountain for sunset views. Enjoy dinner in Old Town Scottsdale for a local vibe.
Day 2 – Sedona: Drive north to Sedona (about 2 hours). Check into a local hotel or Airbnb. Hike some of the famous red rock trails such as Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, or Bell Rock. Consider a scenic drive along Oak Creek Canyon.
Day 3 – Sedona / Jerome / Verde Valley: Spend the morning in Sedona, then drive to the historic town of Jerome for quirky shops and history. Explore the Verde Valley Wine Trail in the afternoon if interested in local wines.
Day 4 – Grand Canyon: Drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon (about 2–3 hours from Sedona). Do short walks along the Rim Trail or explore viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Point. Overnight near the park for sunset or early morning views.
Day 5 – Flagstaff and Northern Arizona: Explore Flagstaff, Lowell Observatory, or take a side trip to Walnut Canyon National Monument or Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. This area offers excellent hiking and less crowded trails.
Day 6 – Monument Valley / Northern Scenic Drives: Consider a long day trip east to Monument Valley if you want iconic desert landscapes, or visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend near Page for stunning photography opportunities. These can be long drives but worth it for the scenery.
Day 7 – Return to Phoenix / Tucson: Drive back to Phoenix or Tucson. If returning via Phoenix, stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument or Tonto Natural Bridge for a scenic conclusion. Depending on your flight, enjoy a relaxing evening or a quick local hike.

Additional tips:

Book accommodations near the main attractions in advance, especially Grand Canyon lodges.
Start early in the morning for popular spots like the Grand Canyon to avoid crowds.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and layers; desert temperatures fluctuate widely.
Check if you need passes for Antelope Canyon or other guided hikes, as some require reservations.
Use GPS and offline maps for remote areas, as cell service can be spotty.

This itinerary offers a mix of active hiking, scenic drives, and cultural exploration, while still allowing for flexibility based on your interests and pace. It combines iconic Arizona landmarks with some lesser-known gems for a full week of adventure.

Best itinerary for a week long trip to Arizona

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