Four Spectacular Stops In Arizona!!!

Yesterday I was taking a couple to the airport who were from Maryland. We were chatting about places of travel that I had been to and one of the places that came up in the conversation was Arizona especially with the Grand Canyon. If you are looking for a state to add for destinations in 2026 then this is one to add. Here are four great areas to explore for a road trip in Arizona which a couple of them were recommended to me by post it note.

The first is Old Town Scottsdale which offers plenty of great museums, art galleries, dining, and views of the Camelback Mountain. One dining option near Old Town is Z Tejas Grill which offers amazing southwestern cuisine and service. For Hotels look at the Embassy Suites Scottsdale which is conveniently located in the heart of Scottsdale with very comfortable rooms and a great breakfast buffet.

The next stop is just north of Scottsdale about two hours and offers excellent hiking and beautiful views of the desert. Sedona is a magical place and I first set first there about nine years ago. It offers a variety of hiking with different levels of challenges. For dining options check out Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill with a incredible food and awesome views from the restaurant of the desert.

Third stop is the Southern Rim of the Grand Canyon which is just another two hours north of Sedona. It offers a great visitor center, and the views of the Grand Canyon are spectacular. There are multiple areas to stop and take in the breathtaking views along the southern rim.

An hour and a half south of the Southern Rim of the Grand Canyon is the town of Flagstaff. There is plenty of great shopping and dining here. One dining option that offers some spectacular southwestern foods is MartAnnes Buritto Palace. The food is quite tasty especially the Carne Asada. Awesome service and very cool ambiance. Well worth the stop on this amazing road trip.

For the drive from Scottsdale to Sedona take Interstate 17 North to Highway 260 then Highway 89 A. From Sedona to the South Rim Entrance take 89 A North to Highway 180. From the South Rim to Flagstaff take Highway 64 East to Highway 89 South. This is an amazing road trip and hope you can enjoy this adventure on your next trip to Arizona. #ridingwithkurt