7-Day Itinerary in Arizona

Friday, September 29: Phoenix

Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Phoenix. In the morning, visit the Desert Botanical Garden, home to a stunning collection of desert plants. Afterward, head to downtown Phoenix to explore the Heard Museum, showcasing Native American art and culture. In the evening, catch a baseball game at Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

• Desert Botanical Garden: Estimated cost $25, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Heard Museum: Estimated cost $18, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Chase Field: Estimated cost varies, Estimated time spent 3-4 hours

Saturday, September 30: Sedona

Embark on a scenic drive to Sedona, known for its red rock formations and spiritual energy. Start your morning with a hike at Cathedral Rock, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, explore the art galleries and shops in the charming Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. End your day with a relaxing sunset jeep tour to witness the mesmerizing colors of the Sedona sky.

• Cathedral Rock Hike: Estimated cost free, Estimated time spent 3-4 hours
• Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village: Estimated cost varies, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Sunset Jeep Tour: Estimated cost $100, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 1: Grand Canyon National Park

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. Begin your day by driving to the South Rim and marvel at the panoramic views from various lookout points. Take a hike along the Rim Trail and capture incredible photos. In the afternoon, embark on a helicopter tour to see the canyon from a different perspective. End your day with a relaxing sunset picnic at Hermit Road.

• South Rim Lookout Points: Estimated cost $35 (vehicle entry fee), Estimated time spent 4-5 hours
• Rim Trail Hike: Estimated cost free, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Helicopter Tour: Estimated cost $300, Estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Page

Head to Page and explore the unique landscapes that surround the area. Begin your morning with a visit to Antelope Canyon, a stunning slot canyon known for its striking light beams. Afterward, take a boat tour to admire the otherworldly beauty of Lake Powell and its towering sandstone cliffs. In the evening, catch the sunset at Horseshoe Bend, a horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River.

• Antelope Canyon: Estimated cost $60, Estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Lake Powell Boat Tour: Estimated cost $150, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Horseshoe Bend: Estimated cost free, Estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 3: Flagstaff

Visit Flagstaff, a charming mountain town surrounded by natural beauty. Start your day with a visit to Lowell Observatory, where you can explore the universe through telescopes and exhibits. In the afternoon, hike the scenic trails of Walnut Canyon National Monument and discover ancient cliff dwellings. End your day with a visit to the Museum of Northern Arizona, showcasing the region's rich Native American heritage.

• Lowell Observatory: Estimated cost $15, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Walnut Canyon National Monument: Estimated cost $15, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Museum of Northern Arizona: Estimated cost $12, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Tucson

Explore the vibrant city of Tucson and its diverse cultural attractions. Start your morning at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combination of a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum. In the afternoon, visit the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a beautiful Spanish colonial church. End your day with a sunset hike at Sabino Canyon, known for its picturesque landscapes.

• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: Estimated cost $21.95, Estimated time spent 3-4 hours
• Mission San Xavier del Bac: Estimated cost free, Estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Sabino Canyon Hike: Estimated cost $8, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Thursday, October 5: Scottsdale

Conclude your trip by indulging in the luxury and relaxation of Scottsdale. Start your day with a visit to Taliesin West, the former winter home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. In the afternoon, pamper yourself at one of Scottsdale's renowned spas. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the city's upscale restaurants and take a leisurely stroll through Old Town Scottsdale, known for its art galleries and boutiques.

• Taliesin West: Estimated cost $40, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Spa Experience: Estimated cost varies, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Old Town Scottsdale: Estimated cost varies, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Arizona, be sure to visit the charming town of Jerome, perched on the side of Mingus Mountain. This former mining town is now an artists' colony with unique shops and galleries. Another hidden gem is the Petrified Forest National Park, where you can see ancient petrified logs and colorful badlands. Lastly, don't miss the stunning landscapes of Saguaro National Park, home to the iconic saguaro cacti.