5-Day Scenic Adventure: Colorado, Grand Canyon & Sedona, Arizona

Day 1: Explore Denver

Denver, Colorado on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with creative pancakes and eggs benedict in this lively spot open from 6:30am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Denver Botanic Gardens

Stroll through beautiful themed gardens showcasing native and exotic plants, open daily from 9am to 8pm.
USD15, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Union Station

Grab a quick bite at one of the many eateries inside this historic transportation hub and vibrant marketplace.
USD15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Denver Art Museum

Explore extensive Native American art collections and contemporary exhibits, open 10am-5pm.
USD13, 2h0m

4:00pm

Walk around Larimer Square

Enjoy this charming historic district with boutique shops and cafes as the sun sets.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Rioja

Dine on Mediterranean-inspired dishes using local Colorado ingredients in a stylish setting.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 2: Travel to Grand Canyon

Drive Denver to Grand Canyon South Rim, Arizona on April 24, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a quick hotel breakfast to fuel the scenic drive ahead.
Included, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Grand Canyon South Rim

Drive approximately 11 hours (750 miles) southwest; recommended to break the drive with stops in Colorado Springs and Flagstaff. Scenic views along the way.
Gas approx. USD70, 11h0m

6:30pm

Check-in and dinner at El Tovar Dining Room

Enjoy dinner at this historic lodge inside the Grand Canyon National Park with views overlooking the canyon.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 3: Grand Canyon Exploration

Grand Canyon South Rim, Arizona on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bright Angel Lodge

Start your day with a rustic breakfast at this lodge with canyon views, open from 7am.
USD20, 1h0m

8:30am

Hiking the Bright Angel Trail

Take a scenic hike along this iconic trail offering breathtaking views of the canyon; hike as far as comfortable, round-trip 1-4 hours.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Canyon Village Market Deli

Grab sandwiches or salads to refuel at this casual spot inside the park.
USD15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Mather Point

Learn about the geology and history, then walk to Mather Point for stunning panoramic views, open 8am-5pm.
Free with park entrance USD35 per vehicle, 2h0m

4:00pm

Sunset at Hopi Point

Watch the spectacular sunset over the canyon from this popular viewpoint, best around 6:45pm depending on season.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Arizona Room

Enjoy Southwestern cuisine with canyon views at this restaurant inside the Grand Canyon Village.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 4: Sedona Arrival

Grand Canyon to Sedona, Arizona on April 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for the 2-hour drive to Sedona.
Included, 0h30m

8:15am

Drive to Sedona

Scenic 2- hour drive to Sedona, known for red rock formations and vibrant arts community.
Gas approx. USD10, 2h0m

10:30am

Check-in and snack break

Relax at your hotel and freshen up before heading out to explore.
Varies, 1h0m

11:30am

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Visit this architectural marvel built into the red rocks with breathtaking panoramic views, open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at The Hudson

Sit down for American cuisine with a view overlooking Sedona’s stunning landscape.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Bell Rock Trail hike

Enjoy a moderate hike around Bell Rock to experience Sedona’s iconic red rock formations.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll through Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Browse galleries, boutique shops, and enjoy the art culture of Sedona in this charming area.
Free to browse, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

Upscale dining with Latin-inspired dishes and stunning red rock views, reservation recommended.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 5: Sedona & Departure

Sedona, Arizona on April 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Creekside Coffee

Casual breakfast with local coffee and pastries by the Oak Creek, opens 7am.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Airport Mesa Trail hike

Short but rewarding hike offering one of the best Sedona vista points, ideal for morning light and photos.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Lunch at Sedona Memories Bakery & Cafe

Enjoy fresh sandwiches and baked goods with a cozy vibe, open until 3pm.
USD15, 1h0m

12:30pm

Drive to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

Approximately 2-hour drive south for your flight back home or onward travel.
Gas approx. USD15, 2h0m