Ultimate 7-Day Arizona Road Trip: Phoenix to Grand Canyon and Beyond
Only 225 miles separate Phoenix from the Grand Canyon—a direct drive takes just four hours. But why hurry when Arizona's scenic byways offer endless opportunities for discovery? Even lifelong residents are often surprised by the hidden gems along this route, from emerging wine regions to historic ghost towns and spiritual retreats in Sedona. Phoenix itself brims with world-class attractions. With new direct flights from cities like Fargo and Ft. Lauderdale, extending your trip to six or seven days unlocks an unforgettable adventure. Follow our expert-curated itinerary below.
Day 1: Phoenix
Ease into your trip with a relaxing morning at your hotel. The Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix stands out for its prime downtown location and rooftop pool. Stroll half a mile to Pizzeria Bianco, renowned by food critics as serving America's best pizza.
Next, head to the Phoenix Art Museum for awe-inspiring exhibits. Don't miss Yayoi Kusama's iconic Firefly Infinity Mirror Room. Time your visit to catch highlights like Antonio, the Fine Art of Fashion Illustration featuring over 100 works by Antonio Lopez and Juan Ramos (published in Vogue, The New York Times Magazine, and Elle). Explore the museum's Fashion Collection spanning the 18th-20th centuries. Current shows like Legends of Speed showcase over 20 historic race cars from Alfa Romeo to Maserati, including Indy 500 and Le Mans winners.
Nearby, the Heard Museum boasts the nation's premier Native American art collection, featuring stunning Hopi Katsinas, Zuni jewelry, and Navajo textiles. Catch Grand Procession, 23 contemporary Plains Indian soft sculptures from a major private collection.
Browse indie shops like Bunky Boutique for saguaro-inspired gear and Antique Sugar for vintage treasures. For dinner, savor the curated beef at Blue Hound Kitchen and Cocktails—try the ribeye with aji amarillo and buttermilk fries.
Cap the night with live country music and two-stepping at Scottsdale's Handlebar J.
Day 2: Phoenix to Verde Valley
Start with a hike in South Mountain Park, then drive 110 miles north on I-17 to Jerome, the quirky former "wickedest town in the West." Now an artist haven, join Ghost Town Tours for Spirit Walks, Haunted History Shuttle, or Jerome Ghost Adventure.
Visit Puscifer (Maynard Keenan's record store and barbershop) and Caduceus Cellars Tasting Room. Lunch at The Haunted Hamburger for burgers, milkshakes, epic views, and ghost lore.
Drive 15 minutes east to Cottonwood in the Verde Valley Wine Region. Taste at Arizona Stronghold Vineyards and Alcantara Vineyards—arrive by boat via Verde Adventures' Water to Wine tour.
Check into The Tavern Hotel in Old Town Cottonwood. Walk to Merkin Vineyards Osteria & Tasting Room for house-made pasta like cacio e pepe or prickly pear mac & cheese, paired with wines, and seasonal gelato.
Day 3: Cottonwood to Flagstaff
Fuel up at Crema Craft Kitchen & Bar with espresso and breakfast (included). Drive 19 miles to Sedona's red rock paradise.
Hike Boynton Canyon or Airport Mesa vortex sites for breathtaking views. Indulge at L'Apothecary Spa at L'Auberge de Sedona with the Feet in the Creek reflexology or Desert Sage Sugar Scrub.
Grab burritos at Indian Gardens Cafe & Market, then visit Slide Rock State Park for creek sliding and natural beauty. Stop at Oak Creek Overlook Vista Native American Artisan Market for crafts and vistas.
Arrive in Flagstaff for stays at The Inn at 410 or historic Weatherford Hotel (drinks at haunted Hotel Monte Vista). Dine on seasonal fare at Brix, trying the Daisy Lou cocktail.
Day 4: Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon
Explore walkable Flagstaff, grabbing scones at Macy’s European Coffee House and Bakery.
Visit Picture Canyon for petroglyphs and easy hikes. Detour to Winslow for Route 66 vibes at Standin’ on the Corner Park and Turquoise Room.
Reach Under Canvas Grand Canyon, a glamping oasis 25 minutes from the South Rim, with dining, yoga, and adventure concierge for hikes, tours, and more.
Day 5: Grand Canyon Exploration
Dive into the Grand Canyon with hiking, biking, Jeep safaris, rafting, or air tours via local operators.
Day 6: Valle to Northern Arizona
Drive 150 miles to Marble Canyon and Lees Ferry on the Colorado River. Walk the Navajo Bridge, explore Glen Canyon.
Lunch at Cliff Dwellers. For 4x4 adventurers, venture to permit-free White Pocket in Vermillion Cliffs. End in Page at Lake Powell Resort, dining on BBQ at Big John's Texas Barbecue.
Day 7: Return to Phoenix
Drive four hours back to Phoenix, already dreaming of your next Arizona escape.
