Let's make the most of your time in Sedona! With that rental car at your disposal, we’ve put together some ideas to help you explore even more of Arizona and the Southwest. If you're planning to extend your stay, these recommendations will make your trip unforgettable.
If you’re planning on staying in Sedona for your entire trip, these scenic drives are the perfect way to explore the area—and they can all be enjoyed in just a day!
Jerome is a spooky little gem perched on a hill, once a booming copper town and now a quirky, haunted hotspot! With its ghostly past, you’ll find eerie tales around every corner—especially at the Jerome Grand Hotel, rumored to be haunted. Explore old mining sites, wander through art-filled streets, and hike scenic trails with jaw-dropping views. It's a place where history, mystery, and creativity collide, making it a must-see for anyone who loves a good thrill!
Things To Do:
- Jerome State Historic Park: Learn about the town’s mining history.
- Jerome Grand Hotel: Visit a haunted hotel with great views.
- Art Galleries: Explore local art and shop for unique items.
- Mining Museums: Discover Jerome’s mining past at various museums.
- Ghost Tours: Experience the spooky side of town with a ghost tour.
- Shopping & Dining: Browse quirky shops and dine at local restaurants like The Haunted Hamburger.
Flagstaff is a charming mountain town surrounded by pine forests and the towering San Francisco Peaks. With crisp alpine air and stunning natural beauty, it’s a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Southwest.
Things to Do:
- Historic Downtown Flagstaff: Stroll through charming streets filled with shops, breweries, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Bearizona Wildlife Park: Drive through to see North American animals like bears, wolves, and bison in a natural habitat.
- Meteor Crater: A short drive away, this massive impact site offers a fascinating look at Earth's history.
- Grand Falls (Chocolate Falls): Visit this seasonal waterfall (best in spring) for a unique and picturesque experience.
- Lowell Observatory: Visit this historic observatory where Pluto was discovered. Enjoy stargazing and guided tours.
Page is a scenic town located near the Arizona-Utah border, surrounded by dramatic red rock landscapes and the tranquil waters of Lake Powell. With its striking natural beauty and close proximity to iconic sites, it serves as a peaceful base for exploring the best of the Southwest.
Things To Do:
- Horseshoe Bend: A short hike takes you to one of the most photographed spots in the U.S.—Horseshoe Bend. The viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of the Colorado River as it winds through the canyon.
- Antelope Canyon: Explore the famous slot canyons of Antelope Canyon, known for their otherworldly shapes and striking light beams. Tours are available for both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. We've personally booked a tour of the Upper side with this company: https://www.antelopecanyon.com/
- Lake Powell: Enjoy water-based activities like kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding on the vast Lake Powell. You can also take a boat tour to see the stunning cliffs and secluded coves.
The Grand Canyon is a stunning natural wonder, a vast, colorful gorge carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. With its towering cliffs and vibrant hues, it’s a place of awe-inspiring beauty and scale, offering unforgettable views and a glimpse into Earth’s ancient history. Whether you’re gazing from the rim or exploring its depths, the Grand Canyon is a truly magical experience.
Things To Do:
- Scenic Viewpoint: Mather Point is one of the most iconic viewpoints on the South Rim, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon.
- Sunrise & Sunset Viewing: The South Rim is one of the best places to watch both sunrise and sunset at the Grand Canyon. Mather Point, Hopi Point, and Yaki Point are popular spots for catching these stunning views.
- Grand Canyon Village: Explore the historic Grand Canyon Village, home to landmarks like El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel Lodge, and the Kolb Studio, which offer a glimpse into the canyon’s past.
6:00AM - 9:00AM: Hit the road to Page!
9:00AM - 9:45AM: Visit Horseshoe Bend
10:00AM - 12:15PM: Kayak on Lake Powell
12:30PM - 1:45PM: Grab lunch in town
2:00PM - 4:15PM: Tour Antelope Canyon
4:30PM - 7:00PM: Hit the road to the Grand Canyon!
7:00PM - 8:00PM: Watch the sunset at Mather Point in the Grand Canyon South Rim
8:00PM - 10:00PM: Head back to Sedona
Want to make your trip even more unforgettable by visiting a few extra spots? We did this mini southwest road trip last year and can’t recommend it enough!
This trip will take you through 3 states to see Sedona, Zion, and Las Vegas! Feel free to reverse the order if that works out best.
Day 1: Arrive in Phoenix, AZ and travel 2 hours to Sedona, AZ!
Day 2-3: Sedona, AZ
Day 4: Travel 4.5 hours to Zion, UT! Stop in Page, AZ to break up the drive & knock off a couple activities we've mentioned above that they have to offer! Once you make it to Zion it'll be just the right time to catch the sunset & enjoy dinner.
Day 5 : Zion, UT
Day 6: Travel 2 hours to Las Vegas, NV!
Day 7: Depart in Las Vegas, NV
*Note: Some rental car companies may apply a fee if you drop the car off at a different location from where you picked it up. If you’re planning a road trip, it’s a good idea to find a rental company that offers this service without an extra charge upon reserving your ride.*