The United States is full of exciting road trip routes. Among the most picturesque, consider driving through Arizona from Scottsdale to Sedona to the Grand Canyon National Park. Arizona is full of things to do for spring breakers, family vacationers and adventure-seekers alike. Hit the road and enjoy beautiful desert landscapes and picture-perfect weather with this five-day Arizona road trip itinerary.
Day One: Check-In And Check Things Out
Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, check into Scottsdale Villa Mirage, a Hilton Vacation Club or Scottsdale Link Resort, a Hilton Vacation Club, and get ready for a day packed with outdoor adventures.
Hike Pinnacle Peak Park for a view of Scottsdale. Camelback Mountain is a strenuous hike if you’re up for a challenge, but the views are worth the journey.
Explore Arizona’s waterways, and rent a paddleboard or kayak.
Golfers rejoice! There are plenty of golf courses to practice your putt. Try Topgolf Scottsdale for a fun twist on the classic game.
After a long day, stay at Scottsdale Villa Mirage, a Hilton Vacation Club, or Scottsdale Links Resort, a Hilton Vacation Club, for an oasis escape, complete with sparkling blue pools.
Day Two: So Much To Do And See In Scottsdale
After spending a day in the sun, take it easy by exploring Scottsdale proper.
Tour Old Town Scottsdale for souvenir shopping and historical sites, such as the Old Adobe Mission.
Dine out at local favorites, like Diego Pops, Cornish Pasty Co and Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor.
Prepare a picnic, and head to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The whole crew will enjoy train rides on replica engines and Wild-West-themed playgrounds.
Enjoy Scottsdale’s art scene. Highlights include public art installations, such as One-Eyed Jack and Copper Falls.
Day Three: Head North To Sedona
After two days in Scottsdale, head to Sedona, just a two-hour drive north, for even more outdoor adventures.
On the drive to Sedona, stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument, a prehistoric cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people.
See some of Sedona’s iconic rock formations and hike to Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge Trail.
Visit Slide Rock State Park, and swim in Oak Creek Canyon to stay cool.
If you’re hitting Sedona during the summer, consider waiting until after sunset for outdoor activities. You’ll avoid the daytime heat and have unparalleled views of the stars.
When you’re ready to retire for the day, take your pick between Sedona Summit, a Hilton Vacation Club, and Ridge on Sedona, a Hilton Vacation Club, for quick access to Sedona.
Day Four: Sedona’s Red Rock Country Awaits
While you could spend days in Red Rock Country, Sedona is full of plenty of things to do and see.
Don’t explore on an empty stomach, and stop by Red Rock Cafe for breakfast all day.
Shutterbugs will find inspiration throughout Red Rock Country. Check out these must-see area attractions for awe-inspiring views, perfect for taking photos.
Visit the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village for art galleries, artisan crafts shops and restaurants.
Immerse yourself in the energy of Sedona’s vortexes at Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
Day Five: Grand Canyon National Park
What’s an Arizona road trip without stopping at the Grand Canyon National Park? Finish your vacation with these sights for an unforgettable road trip.
On the way, stop at the Wupatki National Monument, just outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. Walk around the pueblo ruins of Wupatki, one of the largest ancient Native American sites in Arizona.
Start at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, and check out the Visitor Center to learn about the history of this geological wonder.
Hike the South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point for spectacular views of the Grand Canyon.
While driving to the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, stop your car at the Historic Navajo Bridge. If you keep your eyes peeled, you may even spot California condors circling the skies.
Eat at the Desert View Trading Post for lunch, and check out the Desert View Watchtower for another incredible view.
Read “How We Took An Epic Road Trip With Hilton Grand Vacations — And You Can Too” about one Member’s recent fun-filled road trip with her family.
Key Takeaways
Start in Scottsdale: Fly into Phoenix and explore Scottsdale’s outdoor adventures, including Pinnacle Peak Park, Camelback Mountain and paddleboarding.
Stay in Style: Choose from Hilton Vacation Club resorts like Scottsdale Villa Mirage or Scottsdale Links Resort for a relaxing stay.
Explore Old Town: Day two includes shopping, dining and art in Old Town Scottsdale and McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.
Head to Sedona: On day three, drive north to Sedona with a stop at Montezuma Castle. Hike Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge or cool off at Slide Rock State Park.
Red Rock Country: Day four is all about Sedona’s natural beauty, art villages and spiritual vortexes.
Grand Canyon Finale: Wrap up the trip with a visit to Grand Canyon National Park, including stops at Wupatki National Monument, South Kaibab Trail and Desert View Watchtower.
Family-Friendly: The itinerary is designed for families, spring breakers and adventure-seekers, with a mix of nature, culture and relaxation.
Hilton Grand Vacations Resorts: Each stop includes recommended Hilton Vacation Club properties for comfort and convenience.
FAQ
What’s the best 5-day Arizona road trip itinerary?
Start in Scottsdale, explore Sedona and end at the Grand Canyon. Enjoy hiking, art and family-friendly attractions along the way.
Where should I stay during an Arizona road trip?
Hilton Grand Vacations offers top resorts like Scottsdale Villa Mirage, Sedona Summit and Ridge on Sedona for a comfortable stay.
What are must-see stops on an Arizona road trip?
Don’t miss Pinnacle Peak, Montezuma Castle, Cathedral Rock, Slide Rock State Park and the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
What’s a good Arizona itinerary that’s family-friendly?
Yes! The trip includes outdoor fun, historical sites and kid-friendly attractions like train rides and swimming spots.