Where to Go

Your Guide to an Amazing 5-Day Arizona Road Trip

Hop in the car, and head out to Scottsdale, Sedona and the Grand Canyon for an epic family getaway

The Vacationeer
Lone tree sits at the edge of a cliff overlooking the vastness of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, at sunset. Distant cliffs bathed in evening colors of indigo light set against red rock.

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 breakersfamily 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

Drone shot directly overhead of the sparkling blue pool at Scottsdale Villa Mirage, a Hilton Grand Vacation Club 

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.

Day Two: So Much To Do And See In Scottsdale

Golden rays of the sun fall across an Arizona golf course and its surrounding trees and cacti. 

After spending a day in the sun, take it easy by exploring Scottsdale proper.

Day Three: Head North To Sedona

Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona, at sunset 

After two days in Scottsdale, head to Sedona, just a two-hour drive north, for even more outdoor adventures.

Day Four: Sedona's Red Rock Country Awaits

Peaceful landscapes of Sedona invite relaxation amidst a varied scene of green grass and red buttes in the distance. 

While you could spend days in Red Rock Country, Sedona is full of plenty of things to do and see.

Day Five: Grand Canyon National Park 

The deep blue path of the Colorado River traces a horseshoe path, winding around red rock in the Arizona Grand Canyon. 

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.

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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.

Vacationeer

The Vacationeer

The Vacationeer is a collective of Hilton Grand Vacations storytellers whose goal is to inspire travelers to go further. We're always on the lookout for new destinations to explore, useful travel tips, and unique ideas to help you plan the most memorable vacations possible.

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