Answer: Given your route from Mather Point to Tucson and only having one night to stop, both Flagstaff and Sedona have their merits, but the choice largely depends on the type of experience you want and how much driving you want to do.

Answer: Both Arabella and Sky Ranch are well-regarded options in Sedona, and each has its own strengths depending on what you want from your stay.

Answer: If you’re planning to visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona, it’s important to understand the access rules and logistics. Both sites are extremely popular, but the rules for visiting them are different.

Answer: Booking lodges inside Grand Canyon National Park directly rather than through a third-party provider has several advantages, even though direct bookings are often non-refundable. The key factor is that staying inside the park provides convenience, access, and sometimes pricing or package benefits that third-party bookings cannot match.

Answer: It looks like the original post has been removed, so there aren’t specific details about the “long weekend” plans or questions. However, I can provide some general guidance for planning a long weekend in Mesa, Arizona.

Answer: A day trip from Scottsdale to the Grand Canyon is technically feasible, but it will be a long day with around 7 hours spent driving round-trip. Whether it’s worth it depends on what you hope to experience and how comfortable you are with time on the road.

Answer: Visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon with your dog is definitely possible, and you can still have a very enjoyable day trip even if you skip the areas that require shuttle use. Many viewpoints along the rim are accessible by car, and dogs are allowed on all paved roads, parking areas, and at the main viewpoints, as long as they are leashed.

Answer: Traveling between Scottsdale and Tucson gives you a stretch of roughly 120-130 miles along I-10, so aiming for a midpoint town is a good strategy. The town of Casa Grande is almost perfectly midway and has a few local gems worth checking out.

Answer: Golfing in Sedona in late January can be a very pleasant experience, but there are some important considerations regarding weather, course conditions, and what to expect on your trip.

Answer: Great question! If you’re looking to do a Jeep tour in Sedona and prefer to use a *locally owned* company (rather than the big national brands), there are several excellent options. Here are some of the top-recommended local Jeep tour companies, what they specialize in, and the types of tours they offer:

Answer: Visiting the Grand Canyon in April, particularly during spring break, can indeed be busy, but it is generally manageable. The South Rim is open year-round, and while you will encounter crowds, closures are rare unless there is severe weather. Staffing levels may be stretched due to the high season, but major facilities and services typically remain operational.

Answer: Staying inside Grand Canyon National Park, such as at Yavapai Lodge, has several advantages over staying outside the park at hotels like the Holiday Inn Express, even if the distance seems small on paper. The differences are mostly about convenience, experience, and access.

Answer: Sedona has a wide variety of family-friendly restaurants with beautiful scenery and outdoor dining options. Since you are staying at The Wilde Resort, you’ll want places within a short drive that offer casual to mid-range dining with unique Sedona flair.

Answer: Lower Antelope Canyon tours are typically not cancelled due to light rain. The canyon itself provides shelter from most weather, so even if it’s raining outside, the tour inside the canyon can still proceed safely. However, heavy rain or flash flood warnings may result in cancellations for safety reasons, as the area is prone to sudden flooding.

Answer: Driving from Sedona to Flagstaff and back in November is generally straightforward, but there are some considerations to keep in mind, especially regarding wildlife and daylight hours.

Answer: Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) Terminal 4 is the main terminal for most domestic flights, and while it doesn’t have traditional sports bars inside the secured areas, there are a few ways you could catch an NCAA tournament game after picking up luggage.

Answer: Driving from Tucson to Carmel-by-the-Sea is a long trip of roughly 13–14 hours without stops, and planning a route that avoids Los Angeles traffic can make the drive much less stressful. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your options:

Answer: For your one-week Christmas trip starting and ending in Phoenix, planning the most efficient route is key to maximizing time at each destination and minimizing long drives.

Answer: Your one-week itinerary for Zion, Bryce, and Page is ambitious but doable with some adjustments to reduce driving stress and maximize sightseeing. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: Planning a winter campervan road trip through Arizona and New Mexico in late December/early January can be very rewarding, but you’ll need to plan carefully for cold temperatures, potential snow, and comfort in a rental van. Here’s a detailed guide to help you maximize outdoor enjoyment while minimizing risks.

Answer: Hi Gary, your proposed itinerary from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon and then on to Moab is a great plan for April. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your trip.

Answer: Booking a Canyon de Chelly tour in mid-May requires some planning, as spring is a popular time for visitors and tours are limited due to the fact that only Navajo-guided tours are allowed inside the canyon.

Answer: Your planned road trip from Phoenix to Flagstaff, Page, Grand Canyon Village, and back to Phoenix is a classic Arizona itinerary with plenty of stunning sights. Since your group ranges from 19 to 80 but everyone can walk a mile, you can comfortably combine scenic drives, short hikes, and iconic stops. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of each leg of your journey.

Answer: Tucson is a great destination for a family vacation in May, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. When searching for a kid-friendly resort, consider places that offer pools, activities for children, spacious grounds, and easy access to local attractions.

Answer: Both the Hampton Inn on Shea Blvd and the Embassy Suites on Paradise Valley Rd in Scottsdale are solid choices, particularly for visiting during events like Car Week. They offer convenient locations, comfortable accommodations, and generally favorable reviews from travelers.

Answer: Sedona is a fantastic destination for sightseeing, even for visitors who prefer easy hikes and minimal strenuous activity. The area is famous for its stunning red rock formations, scenic drives, and accessible viewpoints, making it possible to enjoy the beauty of the region without tackling steep or rocky trails.

Answer: On Tripadvisor forums, posts can be removed by the original author or by Tripadvisor staff if they violate community guidelines. While the specific post about the Arizona State Parks & Trails fee increase was removed at the author’s request, it’s useful to understand the general forum guidelines that govern posting and discussions.

Answer: Sedona and Jerome are both beautiful places, but they’re very different in terms of hiking. Your home base at the Hilton in Oak Creek (Village of Oak Creek) gives you access to the easiest, most senior-friendly trails in the area—especially ones close to water like Oak Creek. Jerome, meanwhile, is a historic hillside town without creek-side trails; it’s more about views, art shops, and mining history than hiking. So your best senior-friendly hikes will be near Oak Creek or between Oak Creek and Sedona, not in Jerome.

Answer: The area around Tucson Medical Center (TMC) is generally considered a safe and family-friendly part of Tucson, especially compared to many other central Tucson neighborhoods. It is a mix of residential streets, medical offices, parks, and well-established communities.

Answer: Your road trip from Kingman, AZ to Sequoia National Park is a long but scenic stretch, and there are a few route options to consider. Both routes you mentioned—via CA-58/I-15 and via I-40/CA-58—have their merits depending on whether you prefer desert landscapes, shorter driving time, or more scenic stops along the way.

Answer: The Desert Botanical Garden (DBG) in Phoenix is a wonderful place to explore, even if you only have a couple of hours. With so much to see, it's important to make the most of your limited time. For a short visit, I recommend focusing on one or two trails that offer a mix of iconic desert flora and stunning desert landscapes. Here’s what I suggest:

Answer: The Oak Creek area in Sedona is quieter than Uptown and has fewer dining options, but there are several casual restaurants where you can enjoy a relaxed meal without changing out of your hiking gear. Most of these spots offer Southwestern, American, or casual Italian fare, and are suitable for a low-key evening after a day of hiking and sunset viewing.

Answer: Breakfast at El Tovar typically takes about 60 to 75 minutes, depending on how busy the restaurant is and whether you are just having a quick meal or enjoying a more relaxed breakfast. Since you have a 9:30 am reservation, you can expect to finish around 10:45 to 11:00 am.

Answer: Yes, you can watch skydiving in Eloy, Arizona, which is home to some of the largest skydiving centers in the country, including Skydive Arizona. Many facilities allow spectators to watch jumps from designated viewing areas.

Answer: Canyon X, like the more famous Lower and Upper Antelope Canyons, is known for its slot canyon lighting, which can dramatically affect photography and the visual experience.

Answer: Bobcats are elusive and primarily nocturnal, so seeing one in the wild can be challenging even in areas where they are present. Arizona has a healthy bobcat population, but sightings tend to occur in natural habitats rather than heavily urbanized areas. Your chances increase if you focus on areas with rugged terrain, desert washes, and foothills with sparse human activity.

Answer: For a 5-day trip exploring the Grand Canyon and surrounding areas, you have a great mix of driving, hiking, and tours to enjoy. Since you’re planning to drive your own vehicle and want to include Antelope Canyon, your itinerary can balance scenic stops, moderate hikes, and relaxed sightseeing.

Answer: For a first-time trip combining Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) and Zion National Park, planning the right number of days is key to enjoying both destinations without feeling rushed. Since you’re in your 40s and likely want to experience a mix of scenic viewpoints, moderate hikes, and relaxation, here’s a suggested approach:

Answer: Scottsdale is an excellent choice for a relaxing luxury getaway with plenty of opportunities for exploring the desert landscape, art, and culture. Since you’ll be there from the day after Christmas through Sunday, you can enjoy both festive activities and quieter days later in the week.

Answer: Yes — there is RV parking at the La Fiesta de los Vaqueros (Tucson Rodeo) grounds, but there are important constraints you should be aware of.

Answer: For a short trip from Sedona to Page (Antelope Canyon) and then the Grand Canyon, planning your route and accommodations carefully will maximize your time at each location.

Answer: Concerns about National Park Service (NPS) layoffs are understandable, especially if you are planning a summer trip to busy parks like the Grand Canyon. However, the impact of these layoffs on visitors can vary depending on the park, time of year, and specific services you plan to use.

Answer: If you’re looking for a safe, convenient, and walkable area in Tucson for a one-night Wednesday stay under $200, the best neighborhoods to focus on are Downtown Tucson, West University/4th Avenue, and Main Gate Square near the University of Arizona. These areas are safe, vibrant, and directly connected by the streetcar, with plenty of restaurants and shops within easy walking distance—ideal for a short visit.

Answer: In Sedona, there are several luxury hotel properties that offer private houses or casitas for rent while providing full access to hotel amenities. These options are ideal if you want the space and privacy of a home but still want to enjoy resort services such as pools, spas, restaurants, and concierge assistance.

Answer: Sedona is a beautiful destination, but it can be pricey, especially in March when the weather is ideal and spring break begins. Since you’re looking for accommodations that are family-friendly and more budget-conscious, there are a few approaches you can take, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.

Answer: Sierra Vista offers some lovely sunset views without the need for hiking. Since you prefer driving directly to a spot with easy parking and possibly a bench, there are a few places in and near town that are ideal for a relaxing sunset experience.

Answer: If you’re looking for reflexology in the Paradise Valley / greater Phoenix area without going to a resort, there are several standalone wellness centers and licensed practitioners who specialize in reflexology. These options tend to be more intimate and focused purely on the therapy itself, rather than a full spa experience.

Answer: Flagstaff is definitely worth a visit if you enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, a charming small-town feel, and some Route 66 nostalgia. Even if your primary goal is the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff offers several attractions that make it more than just a stopover.

Answer: Staying near the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is a bit trickier than the South Rim due to its remote location and limited lodging options. The North Rim itself has very few accommodations, so most visitors choose either on-site options or nearby towns along the route to the rim. Here’s a breakdown of practical choices for clean, basic lodging.

Answer: Visiting Sedona for four days gives you plenty of time to explore its stunning red rock landscapes without feeling rushed. Since you mentioned being in decent shape, okay with early mornings, but wary of heights and tight spaces, I’ll focus on hikes that offer beauty and variety without extreme exposure or narrow slots.

Answer: Staying inside the Grand Canyon National Park in early December can be a quieter and more scenic experience compared to the busier summer months. When choosing between the lodges, consider what matters most: proximity to the rim, room quality, historical ambiance, and convenience for activities.

Answer: Here is a logical, efficient, and scenic order for your Sedona itinerary, starting from the Hilton in Oak Creek (Village of Oak Creek). This route minimizes backtracking and keeps the cooler outdoor hikes earlier in the day.

Answer: Camping in Sedona and central Arizona at the end of March can be a wonderful experience, especially if you want to be close to natural attractions while enjoying full amenities. Sedona itself has a few developed campgrounds, but it is a small town and most sites are moderately priced with basic amenities. The key is to find a location that allows easy day trips to popular attractions while providing comfort like bathrooms, running water, and electricity.

Answer: Driving from Cottonwood to West Sedona at night is generally considered safe, but there are a few factors to keep in mind. The route mainly follows Highway 89A, which is a well-maintained two-lane road that winds through Oak Creek Canyon. While the road is paved and clearly marked, it does have curves, elevation changes, and some narrow sections, so extra caution is needed after dark.

Answer: Yes, Arizona has historically had agricultural inspection checkpoints on major highways entering the state from California to prevent pests and diseases from spreading, particularly citrus pests and fruit flies. However, the status of these checkpoints can change, and some have been reduced or removed in recent years.

Answer: For a 26th anniversary getaway in Sedona, focusing on spa treatments, couples massages, stunning views, and easy access to outdoor activities, there are several excellent hotel options that combine luxury, relaxation, and convenience.

Answer: For a mild Jeep tour in Sedona that avoids overly bumpy roads but still gets you off paved areas and into the scenic red rock landscapes, there are a few options to consider. The key is to look for tours labeled “scenic” or “easy” rather than “adventure” or “extreme,” as those often tackle the more rugged trails.

Answer: Yes — there are notable low-rider/lowrider-plus customized car shows in Arizona around mid-February. Here are some confirmed events and things to know when you’re in the Tucson area.

Answer: Yes, you can take an Uber from the Grand Railway Hotel to Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG). The airport is very close to downtown Flagstaff, and most rides from the hotel to the terminal take around 5–10 minutes. Early morning rides are generally available, but it’s a good idea to schedule the ride in advance or request it a few minutes before you plan to leave, especially for a very early flight.

Answer: When choosing between Alamo and Budget for rental cars in Phoenix through Costco, there are a few factors to consider including pricing, convenience, vehicle selection, and overall customer experience. Both companies are owned by the same parent company (Avis Budget Group), but they cater to slightly different audiences.

Answer: Choosing between the and the for a December weekend stay in Tucson can come down to what kind of experience you’re seeking. Both have strong points and a few trade-offs, so I’ll compare them in detail to help you decide.

Answer: Driving from Las Vegas to Page, Arizona in the early morning hours on December 25th is technically possible, but there are several safety and practical considerations you should be aware of. The drive is approximately 275–280 miles and takes around 4.5 to 5 hours under normal conditions, meaning leaving at 3:00 AM would get you to Page around 8:30–9:00 AM, just in time for your 9:35 AM Upper Antelope Canyon tour.

Answer: Late October is a fantastic time to visit Scottsdale—warm days, cooler evenings, and perfect weather for lounging by the pool or taking in Sonoran Desert views. Since you're aiming for under $500/night and want a scenic, upscale experience without the wear-and-tear that some older villas have, there are several excellent resorts that fit your criteria.

Answer: Visiting the Grand Canyon the Wednesday before Thanksgiving means you should expect a busier-than-usual day. This is a popular travel period, and traffic from Sedona to the South Rim can be heavier, especially around towns like Flagstaff and Cameron. Leaving Sedona by 10am is reasonable, but you may experience slower speeds than usual due to increased visitor traffic.

Answer: Your 4th of July road trip sounds like a fantastic adventure, and there are plenty of exciting places to explore on your way to and from Scottsdale. Based on your itinerary, here are some thoughts and suggestions to make your trip even more enjoyable:

Answer: For a 2-week vacation covering Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and California, you can plan a mix of natural wonders, scenic drives, and iconic cities. Below is a suggested list of must-see destinations and top spots in sequence by state.

Answer: Thefts from automobiles, particularly parked in tourist areas, are something to be aware of on road trips through Utah and northern Arizona, including Page and Monument Valley. While the national parks themselves generally have low crime rates, opportunistic thefts do occur, often targeting visible items left in cars. Most incidents involve unlocked vehicles or valuables left in plain sight rather than in the trunk.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your detailed trip report! It’s a fantastic example of how to structure an Arizona trip with young children while balancing sightseeing, driving, and downtime. Your approach of using driving time for naps and pacing activities according to your kids’ energy levels is especially helpful for families with toddlers.

Answer: Spending 8 hours in downtown Phoenix can be quite enjoyable, as the city offers a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor attractions. Since you have a full Thursday, you can plan a combination of sightseeing, dining, and relaxing activities depending on your interests.

Answer: Driving from Page to Flagstaff on US-89 is a beautiful trip, and yes—you can absolutely see the western edge of the Painted Desert without detouring all the way to Petrified Forest National Park. While the most famous views are inside the park, several excellent roadside pullouts and short stops along US-89 offer classic Painted Desert scenery: multicolored badlands, striped hills, and wide open vistas.

Answer: For a one-day trip from Flagstaff to Page in late December, your focus on maximizing scenery and “wow” moments is spot on. With limited daylight, careful planning is key.

Answer: Raymond, for a short January trip to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim with two athletic teens, you’ll want hikes that are scenic, moderately challenging, and safe in winter conditions. While rim-to-rim is off the table, there are several options that allow you to descend into the canyon for memorable experiences without committing to an overnight trek.

Answer: It appears the original post was removed at the author’s request, so there is no specific content to respond to regarding a January road trip around Phoenix. However, I can provide general guidance for a winter road trip in the Phoenix area, which may help if you are planning one.

Answer: Monument Valley is an iconic destination and a highlight of any Southwest road trip. Since you’re arriving from Moab on June 22 and staying overnight in the Monument Valley area, you have a couple of options for timing your visit.

Answer: Visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas is very doable in June, and there are several options for enjoying beautiful views without strenuous hiking. Since you’re in your 60s and prefer an easier experience, a combination of scenic drives, overlooks, and short walks is ideal. Here’s a detailed guide:

Answer: Scottsdale in November–December is a fantastic time for a spa weekend: the weather is perfect for pool lounging and outdoor activities, and the high holiday season hasn’t yet pushed rates to their peak. Since you’re looking for a spa resort that feels luxurious but isn’t outrageously priced, there are several properties that offer excellent amenities, a beautiful setting, and relaxing vibes without the “over-the-top” price tag of the ultra-luxury resorts.

Answer: Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon comes with specific restrictions to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. Regarding water bottles, Dixie Tours allows only simple, lightweight holders or carriers that do not have zippers, extra pockets, or compartments. This is mainly to prevent items from getting caught on canyon walls during the narrow passages.

Answer: Hi Chris,

Answer: It appears that the original post regarding rentals in Oro Valley has been removed at the author's request, so there is no specific information available from that thread.

Answer: Since the original post about Sky Harbor storm ground stop was removed, there is no specific content to provide regarding that day’s events. However, in general, when Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport experiences a storm ground stop, it means that flights are temporarily held on the ground either at Sky Harbor or at their departure airports due to weather conditions, typically thunderstorms, high winds, or low visibility. These stops are safety measures and can affect arrivals and departures across the airport.

Answer: In Arizona, the legal drinking age is 21, so traditional bars and nightclubs generally do not allow patrons under 21. This means your 20-year-old son and his girlfriend will not be able to enter establishments that serve alcohol, even if they do not plan to drink. Scottsdale is known for its vibrant nightlife, but most venues strictly enforce this law.

Answer: Flagstaff offers several charming and high-quality hotels that provide a relaxing atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and comfortable amenities—perfect for unwinding after a busy national parks road trip. Given your preference for a beautiful setting, nice lobby, and low-key activities, here are some options to consider:

Answer: Both Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake offer enjoyable lake cruises, but they have slightly different experiences and access considerations from Scottsdale. Given that you are staying in Scottsdale, the drive time and scenery may influence your choice.

Answer: It looks like the original post has been removed, so specific itinerary details are unavailable. However, I can provide general suggestions for planning a trip in Arizona, depending on your interests, timeframe, and starting point.

Answer: Here’s a detailed plan for a 3-day visit to the Grand Canyon South Rim, starting and ending in Las Vegas, including a stop in Sedona on the way back. This itinerary is designed for a family of four, including two kids aged 10 and 14, and assumes you are driving a rental car.

Answer: If you are planning to visit Page, Arizona over the 4th of July weekend, there are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience at Horseshoe Bend and nearby attractions.

Answer: Your May 2025 Sedona itinerary for a family of 5 looks well-balanced and thoughtfully planned, especially considering the dietary needs for gluten-free meals. You have a good mix of sightseeing, hiking, scenic drives, and local experiences, with time built in for rest and flexibility.

Answer: Flagstaff makes an excellent home base for northern Arizona, especially with 8 days to explore the region. With a rental car, you’ll have access to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Monument Valley, Walnut Canyon, Sunset Crater, Wupatki, and plenty of hiking around town. Since you’re looking at AirBnB/VRBO options, the specific neighborhood you choose can make a big difference in convenience, quietness, and ease of driving.

Answer: If you’re visiting Phoenix in a couple of weeks and your son is a diehard baseball fan, you’re in for a treat. Phoenix and the surrounding area are central to the Cactus League, where many Major League Baseball teams hold their Spring Training. This is a unique experience because the ballparks are smaller, more intimate, and often allow fans to get up close to the players.

Answer: Planning a Spring Break trip to the Grand Canyon with kids aged 10 and 12 can be a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation. Since you are flying into Flagstaff and considering South Rim lodging, you are already well-positioned to see the main highlights without rushing.

Answer: For a relaxing Tucson getaway in January with your priorities—resort spa, walking, e-biking, visiting Saguaro National Park, and enjoying good restaurants—both JW Marriott Starr Pass and Ritz-Carlton offer excellent amenities, but there are some distinctions that may guide your choice.

Answer: For a scenic northern Arizona road trip that balances natural beauty, historic sites, and relaxing drives, here’s a suggested itinerary and tips based on your preferences. Since you’re in your early 70s and prefer minimal hiking, I’ve emphasized scenic drives, historic sites, and short walks.

Answer: Vermillion Cliffs National Monument is a stunning area in northern Arizona, famous for its colorful cliffs, canyons, and unique rock formations. While much of the more famous areas—like Coyote Buttes North (home of The Wave)—require a permit and a high-clearance 4X4 or guided hike, there are several areas accessible to standard vehicles that are still worth visiting.

Answer: Planning a winter road trip from Phoenix to visit Arizona’s national parks and monuments outside the Grand Canyon can be a rewarding experience, especially if you want to see Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and the Petrified Forest. Early February offers cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and clearer skies, but it also comes with considerations regarding weather and road conditions.

Answer: If you’re looking for an easy hike in Sedona with reliable parking around 9 a.m. on a weekday, there are several options that should work well. Parking can be a challenge at the most popular trailheads, but weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Answer: Spending a day in Phoenix offers a mix of desert landscapes, cultural experiences, and delicious Southwestern cuisine. Even with limited time, you can experience some of the city's highlights.

Answer: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are currently in effect at the Grand Canyon South Rim. These restrictions are designed to reduce the risk of wildfires during periods of high fire danger and extreme weather conditions.

Answer: For visitors to Phoenix with limited walking ability, mid-January is a great time as the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor and light sightseeing. Staying within a one-hour drive from the city gives access to a variety of scenic, cultural, and accessible experiences without overwhelming physical exertion.

Answer: Your itinerary looks very well thought out, balancing scenic drives, light hikes, and comfortable sightseeing for a family group with varying activity levels. Here’s a detailed review and some suggestions to help optimize your schedule and make it smoother while considering winter daylight and accessibility.

Answer: For a leisurely daytrip from Sedona to the Grand Canyon in October, your plan to leave around 9 AM is very reasonable, especially since you’re not aiming for strenuous hikes. October is generally a quieter time compared to summer, but weekends and fall holidays can still see moderate traffic.