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If you told us we could only go to one US state ever again – the choice wouldn’t be difficult – Arizona here we come! The Grand Canyon State is diverse. From the Sonoran Desert scenery in Phoenix and Scottsdale to the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine Forest in Flagstaff, there is much to discover on an Arizona adventure.
Stay on a working ranch, witness the incredible red rocks of Sedona, drive original parts of legendary Route 66 and stand on the corner in Winslow, Arizona, then take a walk across London Bridge. And don't forget, Arizona is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the incredible Grand Canyon.
Almost one quarter of the state is Native American land, including the Navajo Nation, the largest reservation in the USA. Having one of the oldest living cultures in documented history, the Hopi Tribe migrated to Arizona in the 12th century. The sacred rituals and beliefs of the indigenous tribes are as humbling as they are interesting.
Our two-week suggested itinerary gives you plenty of time to explore at a slower pace – you’ll be glad you did!
Price per person includes:
Arrive Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport, pick up your car and head to Scottsdale for 3 nights.
Scottsdale is known for its world-class resorts, shopping, golf and restaurants. But it’s the blending of urban chic with wild west charm that makes it unique. Add to that amazing mountain backdrops and you’ll wonder why it’s taken you so long to get here. Take the next two full days to explore: mooch the neighbourhoods of Old Town; hit the hiking trails of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve; visit Butterfly Wonderland and the Odyssey Aquarium; or simply enjoy the fantastic facilities of your resort.
Distance: 118 miles
Surrounded by four mountain ranges, Tucson is as naturally beautiful as it is surprising. Home to artists, astronomers, cowboys and cacti – the giant saguaro to be exact – Tucson begs to be explored. Saguaro National Park offers up close views of the namesake plant which you won’t find in many other settings.
Tucson is also home to several working ranches all of which welcome guests. Or, you can opt for a mountainside retreat and enjoy the views from the pool or golf course. By night Tucson has some of the best stargazing and there are several observatories to visit. Tucson also holds a Guinness World Record for the world's largest military aircraft boneyard. Inside the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base over 3,000 retired aircraft and 13 aerospace vehicles, from all branches of service along with NASA, are permanently grounded here. Tours are no longer available, but the boneyard is visible from the road and a sight to behold. Pima Air & Space Museum features nearly 400 historic aircraft, from a Wright Flyer to a 787 Dreamliner and is worth an visit.
Distance: 276 miles
This will be the longest drive of the holiday, but via the scenic route out of town along the foothills of Mount Lemmon and through some of Arizona’s quirky small towns. Oracle is home to Biosphere 2, the largest ecosystem science experiment in the world. Continue on to Florence, one of the oldest settlements in the state, then Tortilla Flat in the Superstition Mountains – the oldest operating stagecoach town in Arizona.
From there, travel alongside the Tonto National Forest, the largest of the six national forests in the state. Payson is your next stop - home of the World's Oldest Continuous Rodeo and Tonto Natural Bridge – a natural arch believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world.
Now it’s time to Stand on the Corner in Winslow, Arizona! Forever linked with the famous Eagles’ song Take It Easy, you’ll love this little gem on historic Route 66..
Distance: 85 miles
Not many miles today, but lots of scenic stops along the way. The first is Meteor Crater. Around 50,000 years ago, a meteor crashed to Earth leaving a huge one-mile-wide hole. It’s an impressive sight and you can walk around it on your own or do a guided tour. There is also a museum, space centre, 4D theatre and more. Then it’s back to Route 66 – don’t forget Winona – and a stop in Flagstaff maybe for lunch and plenty of historic Route 66 in downtown.
Your stop for the next two nights is one of the most beautiful places in the USA – Sedona’s red rocks are breathtaking. It’s also one of the most spiritual places on Earth.
Distance: 60 miles
Another low mileage day, so stop as much as you like. Maybe spend more time in Flagstaff and visit the Lowell Observatory where astronomical research has been conducted since 1894 – this was in fact, where Pluto was discovered. Then it’s on to Williams for two nights. This Route 66 town is also the gateway to the Grand Canyon and we highly recommend a trip on the Grand Canyon Railway.
Distance: 173 miles
Continue on nostalgic Route 66 through some of our favourite route cities – Seligman, Peach Springs and Kingman. SO many photo opportunities – this is what America is all about. Until it gets British again – yep, your next stop is Lake Havasu City the home of London Bridge!
In 1968, an Arizona businessman purchased the bridge thinking it was Tower Bridge. The City of London
disagrees saying he knew exactly what he was buying. In any event, 10,276 exterior granite blocks from the original bridge were dismantled and shipped via the Panama Canal to California and then trucked to Arizona. The blocks were reassembled and in 1971 London Bridge opened to much fanfare. It’s still a focal point of the city and English Village is a fun mooch.
Distance: 197 miles
You’ve come full circle. You can either fly back to the UK or spend a final night in Phoenix before heading home.
This is just one way we can build an Arizona holiday. We've barely scratched the surface - if you have longer to spend there's plenty more to explore. You can also combine Arizona with other US destinations. Give us a call today to discuss your ideal Arizona adventure.