Grand Canyon & Sedona Day Trip from Phoenix with Oak Creek

Summary

Red rocks, canyon views & winding roads from Phoenix

You’ll start your day with hotel pickup in Phoenix before heading north to see Sedona’s famous red rocks and drive through Oak Creek Canyon’s tree-lined curves. At the Grand Canyon South Rim, stop at several viewpoints for photos and quiet moments—plus time to explore El Tovar Lodge and Hopi House on your own. Expect honest conversation, fresh air, and plenty of chances to just take it all in.

What’s the experience like?

I’d always seen photos of the Grand Canyon but honestly, nothing really prepares you for that first glimpse. We left Phoenix early—still kind of sleepy—and by the time we hit Sedona, the sun was just starting to bounce off those wild red rocks. Our guide, Mike, pulled over so we could grab pictures (and maybe just stare for a minute). The air felt different there—drier, but it smelled like pine and dust. I tried to name all the colors in those cliffs but gave up after “rust” and “burnt orange.”

Driving through Oak Creek Canyon surprised me. It’s not just a road; it’s this twisting stretch with trees leaning over us and these flashes of rock between branches. I kept thinking how much cooler it must be here in summer, with everyone swimming or hiking around. Mike told us stories about old trading posts and pointed out spots people still go fishing—his laugh was contagious when he admitted he’d never caught anything himself. The van ride didn’t feel long because he kept chatting, plus there were only about eight of us so it felt more like a road trip than a tour.

When we finally reached the Grand Canyon South Rim, I had that weird mix of excitement and calm—like my brain couldn’t decide which one to land on. We stopped at a few viewpoints along Desert View Drive; each one looked completely different depending on where the sun hit. There was this moment at Hopi House where I just stood quietly because honestly… what do you even say? I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

If you’re wondering about logistics: yes, they pick you up at your hotel (at least in Phoenix or Scottsdale), there’s water in the van, and entry fees are covered so you don’t have to fumble for cash at the park gates. Lunch is on your own inside the park—I grabbed something quick at El Tovar Lodge and ate outside, watching people try to get squirrels to pose for selfies (they never cooperate). Anyway, if you want a day trip from Phoenix that covers Sedona’s red rocks, Oak Creek Canyon’s winding roads, and the Grand Canyon itself without feeling rushed or herded around… this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Oak Creek Tour

• Drive through Oak Creek Canyon
• Stop for pictures in Sedona
• Visit Grand Canyon South Rim vistas
• Explore El Tovar Lodge and Hopi House
• Stroll Bright Angel Lodge area

Top questions

How long is the Grand Canyon & Sedona day trip from Phoenix?

The tour lasts a full day with early morning pickup and evening return; exact times depend on your hotel location.

Does this tour include hotel pickup in Scottsdale?

Yes, hotel pickup is offered for many hotels in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa Hilton (Mesa).

Is lunch included on this Grand Canyon tour?

No, lunch isn’t included—you’ll have free time to buy food inside the park (El Tovar Lodge is popular).

How much time do we spend at Sedona?

You’ll stop for about 15–30 minutes in Sedona for photos of the red rocks before continuing north.

What kind of vehicle is used for this tour?

The tour uses stretch 15-passenger vans but limits groups to 10 people per van for comfort.

Are park entry fees included?

Yes, all National Park fees are included in your booking price.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children ages 3–9 can join at child rates; under 3s aren’t permitted; car seats required for kids under 6.

Do we visit both El Tovar Lodge & Hopi House?

Yes—you’ll have time to visit both El Tovar Lodge and Mary Colter’s Hopi House along the South Rim.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations around Phoenix or Scottsdale (plus Mesa Hilton), bottled water throughout the drive, all National Park entry fees handled by your guide so you can skip lines or confusion at entrances, live commentary as you travel through Sedona’s red rocks and Oak Creek Canyon toward multiple Grand Canyon viewpoints—and enough free time to wander historic lodges or grab lunch before heading back south together.