Arizona, a state so beautiful that it attracts millions of visitors a year, and for good reason. Arizona has national parks, state parks, native run land, and so much to offer. We spent a perfect 5 days based in Sedona, Arizona and here’s what went down!

Where to fly into: We flew into Phoenix, but you can fly into Las Vegas or Flagstaff too.

Best time to visit: We LOVED visiting in early October. The weather was perfect with chilly mornings and evenings (perfect for hiking!) and maybe we just got lucky- but there  was nothing but sunshine during our trip!

Must Visit’s In Arizona

Sedona, Arizona:

After spending 4 nights in Sedona, it easily became one of my favorite towns in the USA. We stayed at Arabella Hotel Sedona and thought the location was perfect! We were close to town and near some fantastic restaurants. The hotel offered continental breakfast, two pools and hot tubs, a beautiful view with bonfires, live music, and wine tastings. I’d definitely stay here again!

There are countless hikes in Sedona, you can’t really go wrong! However, when to go is crucial. We heard that the famous Devils Bridge hike can get so crowded that almost 200 people could be waiting to cross the bridge. We beat the crowds and went in the morning  (around 6:45am) and only saw about 15 people max doing the hike. There are two different routes you can take- we did the 5.8 mile trek and it was beautiful!

Of all the hikes we’ve done around the world, one of my favorites ever was Cathedral Rock in Sedona. This hike was about 2 miles and a good uphill climb. There are times on this hike where you’re literally sliding up and down rocks and that made it different and so much fun! The view from the top is stunning and the trail is easily marked.

Pink Jeep Tour:

We actually did this tour because we won free tickets for our group of 4. It was fun and informative but if I’m honest, I’m glad it was free! I don’t think I would’ve paid for it and there is much more to do in Sedona!

Sedona tips:

• Make reservations in advance at Mariposa. This latin inspired grill offers INCREDIBLE views and a great wine list.
• The Hudson is another note worthy restaurant with a beautiful view
• Go on the longer hikes at sunrise or sunset
• Check your bill at restaurants before signing, we noticed a $2.50 fee for not paying cash and were told it was common in Sedona. It only happened to us twice, but just something to be aware of!

Grand Canyon:

When visiting the Grand Canyon, it’s good to know that the north rim and south rim are very different. Because of time, we stuck to the south rim. It’s about a 2 hour and 20 minute drive from Sedona. We rented bikes at south rim and did the red route. This was fun, difficult, and offered gorgeous views of all the viewpoints! The Grand Canyon is gorgeous and massive and almost overwhelming. The bike route has some tough hills to conquer- so be ready!

Page, Arizona:

Page is home to the incredible Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe bend overlook. Page is about 3 hours from Sedona, and definitely doable in a full day trip from Sedona (just be prepared for a long day!)

We departed early from Sedona in order to make a 10am tour of Antelope Canyon. We did the lower canyon and it was STUNNING. There isn’t a bad photo taken down in the canyon- it truly is quite the experience.

Be aware there are a lot of people down in the canyon at every time of the day. We felt our time slot at 10am in early October was less busy than other times we’ve heard. Even with all the people, it doesn’t take away from the wonder of the canyon.

Kayak Lake Powell:

This was an active and unique way of experiencing the canyons. Kayaking Lake Powell was a 6 mile round trip guided trek through some narrows and it was a fun challenge!

Horseshoe Bend:

Horseshoe bend is about a mile hike (walk) down to the incredible viewpoint. I recommend timing out your day to be here at sunset. We were there about 4pm and the photos were a little hard to take- but regardless the views are stunning!

Arizona is definitely a place we will gladly return to. It was such a special trip and something I will never forget!

Xoxo