7-Day Itinerary: Phoenix to Vegas

Thursday, November 23: Arrival in Phoenix

Start your trip by arriving in Phoenix, Arizona. Spend the morning exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can admire a variety of desert plants and learn about the region's unique ecosystem. In the afternoon, visit the Heard Museum to delve into Native American art and culture. Wrap up the day with a scenic hike at Camelback Mountain to catch a breathtaking sunset over the city.

• Desert Botanical Garden: Cost: $25, Time: 2-3 hours
• Heard Museum: Cost: $18, Time: 2-3 hours
• Camelback Mountain: Free, Time: 2-3 hours

Friday, November 24: Sedona Exploration

Embark on a day trip to Sedona, known for its stunning red rock formations. Start the morning with a visit to Cathedral Rock, a popular spot for hiking and photography. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant art scene in Sedona's Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. End the day with a serene sunset view at the Airport Mesa.

• Cathedral Rock: Free, Time: 3-4 hours
• Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
• Airport Mesa: Free, Time: 1-2 hours

Saturday, November 25: Grand Canyon National Park

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. Start your day early and drive to the South Rim. Spend the day hiking along the rim trails and capturing breathtaking views of the canyon. Don't miss the sunset at Yavapai Point, offering a stunning display of colors over the canyon.

• Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim): Cost: $35 per vehicle, Time: Full day

Sunday, November 26: Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

Leave Phoenix and head towards Las Vegas, making a stop at the Hoover Dam. Take a guided tour of the dam and marvel at its impressive engineering. In the afternoon, relax by the shores of Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, and enjoy some water activities or a leisurely picnic.

• Hoover Dam: Cost: $15-30 depending on the tour, Time: 2-3 hours
• Lake Mead: Cost: $25 per vehicle, Time: 2-4 hours

Monday, November 27: Las Vegas Strip

Explore the famous Las Vegas Strip and its iconic attractions. Start with a visit to the Bellagio Fountains, where you can witness the mesmerizing water and light show. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fremont Street, known for its lively entertainment and street performers. As the evening sets in, catch a show or try your luck at one of the many casinos.

• Bellagio Fountains: Free, Time: 30 minutes
• Fremont Street: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
• Show or Casino: Cost varies, Time: Evening activity

Tuesday, November 28: Red Rock Canyon

Escape the city and venture into the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon. Drive along the scenic loop and stop at various viewpoints to appreciate the vibrant red rock formations. Enjoy a hike along one of the many trails, and keep an eye out for desert wildlife. Don't forget your camera!

• Red Rock Canyon: Cost: $15 per vehicle, Time: 3-4 hours

Wednesday, November 29: Departure

On your final day, depart from Las Vegas. If time permits, visit the Neon Museum, home to a collection of vintage Las Vegas signs. Reflect on your unforgettable trip as you head back home.

• Neon Museum: Cost: $22-28, Time: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Phoenix and Las Vegas, don't miss these hidden gems and local favorites:

• In Phoenix, visit the Musical Instrument Museum to discover a vast collection of instruments from around the world.
• Experience the vibrant street art scene in downtown Phoenix's Roosevelt Row.
• In Las Vegas, explore the offbeat and eclectic Container Park, a shopping and entertainment complex made from shipping containers.
• Take a break from the city lights and venture into the serene Valley of Fire State Park, just an hour's drive from Las Vegas.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Phoenix-Vegas trip here