Scenic Southwest Adventure: Colorado Springs to Grand Canyon and Sedona

Day 1: Explore Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urban Steam

Start your day with artisan coffee and freshly baked pastries in this popular local cafe. They open at 7:00am so you can have an early, energizing breakfast.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Garden of the Gods

Explore this stunning natural park famous for its towering sandstone rock formations and hiking trails. It opens year-round with free admission, so enjoy breathtaking views and photo ops.
USD0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Rabbit Hole

Dine in a unique underground setting offering creative American cuisine with great vegetarian options. Open daily from 11:00am to 10:00pm.
USD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Spend the afternoon at America’s highest zoo where you can feed giraffes and view wildlife amidst mountain scenery. The zoo is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
USD25, 2h30m

4:15pm

Drive towards Grand Canyon National Park

Begin the approximately 7-hour drive southwest to the Grand Canyon to position yourself for an early start tomorrow.
USD0, 7h0m

9:30pm

Check in Grand Canyon accommodation

Rest at a lodge or hotel near the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, preparing for the next day’s adventure.
USD150, Overnight
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Day 2: Grand Canyon Hiking

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona on April 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at El Tovar Dining Room

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this historic lodge on the South Rim, open from 7:00am to 10:00am, featuring southwestern-inspired dishes.
USD30, 1h0m

8:30am

Hiking the South Rim Trail

Explore the scenic South Rim trail with spectacular viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. The park is open 24/7, but daylight is best for hiking.
USD0 (Park Entry USD35 per vehicle valid for 7 days), 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bright Angel Lodge

Lunch at the Bright Angel Lodge Restaurant, offering casual American fare with rim views. Open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Learn about the geology and history of the canyon at the center; open from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Great place for educational exhibits and planning further exploration.
USD0, 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive to Sedona

Begin the roughly 2 hours’ drive north to Sedona, known for its red rock formations and vibrant arts scene.
USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Hudson

Enjoy contemporary American cuisine with panoramic views of Sedona’s red rocks. Open daily from 4:00pm to 9:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m

7:30pm

Check in Sedona accommodation

Rest for the night at a centrally located hotel or resort in Sedona.
USD150, Overnight
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Day 3: Sedona Exploration

Sedona, Arizona on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Coffee Pot Restaurant

Try their famous 101 omelets or classic breakfast while soaking in the lively atmosphere, open daily from 7:00am.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Hiking Devil’s Bridge Trail

Hike to the largest natural sandstone arch in the area, offering incredible views and photo opportunities. The trail opens at dawn and is best visited early before the heat.
USD0, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sedona Memories Bakery & Cafe

Savor fresh sandwiches and baked goods from this beloved local cafe, open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross

Marvel at the architectural beauty of this chapel built into the red rocks, open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with awe-inspiring views over Sedona.
USD0, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Shop local art, crafts, and souvenirs in this charming village styled like a traditional Mexican plaza. Open until 6:00pm.
USD0, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at Elote Cafe

End your day with upscale Mexican cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients. Reservations recommended; open from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m
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