Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Begin your adventure in Phoenix

This magical city, located in the heart of Arizona, is packed with desert gardens, unique museums, and miles of national parks to explore. Discover the American Indian culture at the Heard Museum, admire the cacti at the Desert Botanical Garden, and visit downtown Phoenix for food, cocktails, and live music.

Where to stop and explore

As you leave the vibrant city of Phoenix, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking landscape, which slowly changes to a deep red. Sedona is the first place to stop and take the chance to connect with nature. You can go hiking, take a jeep tour, and then relax in one of the many spa resorts in the region. The town has an alternative feel and is an excellent place for lovers of art galleries, shopping, and taking time out. Next comes Flagstaff, near the vast Ponderosa Pines forest, where you can hike in summer and cross-country ski in winter. This college town has a lively vibe, and when you’re not outdoors, you can visit one of the craft beer breweries and sample the award-winning ales. For an unforgettable experience, stay the night and camp under the stars as there’s hardly any light pollution in this region.

An essential stop has to be Prescott, especially if you’re a history fan. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you visit the imposing courthouse, wander past the Victorian houses, and head for the many museums and art galleries. Finish your visit with a stroll along the famous Whiskey Row, where you’ll find a selection of saloons from the Gold Rush era. To learn about how the native American Sinagua people lived, make sure to stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Located on the edge of a limestone cliff, the castle's ruins are one of the most historic relics in the region.

Final destination – the Grand Canyon

As one of the wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon will leave you with treasured memories of this amazing geological feature. The best way to see this spectacular sight is to drive your rental car through it so you can stop at your leisure. This is a road trip in itself, and driving is the perfect way to take this journey. You can stop at waterholes for a swim, hike the trails, and go rafting on the Colorado River. For a special treat, you could take the plunge and book a helicopter ride, which promises fantastic views of the scenery. Make sure you plan your route when driving through the Grand Canyon national park, as some parts are only open to cars at certain times of the year. If you’re planning a road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, why not rent your car from Fox and take advantage of our special one-way deals?