Day 5: Sunday Road Trip to Petrified Forest National Park
Driving Times:
- Scottsdale to Boyce Thompson Arboretum ~1.5 hours
- Boyce Thompson Arboretum to Holbrook ~3.5 hours
Before we left the city, we stopped for breakfast at Tom’s Incredible Ice Cream, a kosher-certified ice cream parlor that also serves kosher bagels and other breakfast items. Begin your road trip outside of the Phoenix area with a visit to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Arizona’s oldest botanical garden. Wander its trails, which showcase plants from deserts around the world, as well as scenic views of Picketpost Mountain. This made a great 2 hour visit exploring the landscape and a perfect hike.
Afterward, continue the road trip through the scenic drive between Globe and Show Low, stopping for beautiful views along the way. Before leaving Globe, consider a stop at Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park where you can explore a 700 year-old Salado Culture pueblo. One of the most significant finds of Southwest archaeology, an interpretative trail leads through what once had 400 rooms. Inside the Besh-Ba-Gowah Museum, are two models of the ruins and displays of tools, jewelry, woven baskets and pottery. Before completing the drive to Holbrook, where you’ll check into a local Airbnb near Petrified Forest National Park, you have an opportunity to stop at a Walmart to pick up some snacks if needed. Go to bed early for an early day at the national park.
Day 6: Petrified Forest National Park
Driving Times:
- Holbrook to Petrified Forest Visitor Center ~20 minutes
- Petrified Forest to Grand Canyon Village ~3.5 hours
Head out early to the Petrified Forest NP. Petrified Forest National Park in northeastern Arizona is a stunning landscape known for its vibrant petrified wood, ancient petroglyphs, and desert vistas. The park’s fossilized trees, over 225 million years old, create a colorful and unique attraction, with hues of blue, purple, and red visible in the petrified logs. The Crystal Forest Trail offers an up-close look at these vibrant fossils, while the Painted Desert provides expansive views of colorful rock formations.
For history lovers, the Puerco Pueblo ruins feature remnants of a 12th-century Native American settlement, and the Blue Mesa Trail offers scenic views of mesas with captivating blue and purple tones. Petrified Forest National Park combines natural beauty and ancient history, making it a must-visit destination.
Depending on how quickly you want to zip through the park and take it all in, and how much you want to hike, you can spend a few hours to the whole day at the park. We spent 5-6 hours in the park before driving to Williams, the gateway to the Grand Canyon, and check into your Airbnb or hotel in the area. Consider visiting Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams for a family-friendly wildlife experience. You can also stop in Flagstaff along the way which is the largest city in the area with any amenity you need.
Days 7-8: Grand Canyon Adventures
Driving Times:
- Williams to Grand Canyon South Rim ~1 hour
Dedicate your day to the Grand Canyon South Rim, where you can explore iconic overlooks such as Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower. For hikers, the Bright Angel Trail offers breathtaking views, while the Rim Trail is perfect for a leisurely walk with shuttle access.
Visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim offers breathtaking views of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. The expansive canyon, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, stretches across 277 miles and reaches depths of over a mile. Visitors can enjoy a variety of scenic viewpoints along the South Rim, including Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station, both offering panoramic views of the canyon’s layered rock formations and vibrant colors. The South Rim is accessible year-round and provides numerous hiking opportunities, from easy strolls to more challenging trails.
In addition to the stunning views, the South Rim is home to the Grand Canyon Village, where you can explore historic buildings, enjoy dining options, and learn about the park’s geology and history at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Visitors can also take part in guided tours or hop on the shuttle bus system to explore key points of interest without worrying about parking.
End the day by catching a spectacular sunset over the canyon before returning to your accommodations.
Assuming you were able to see and do everything all in Day 1, you can use Day 2 to spend more time in Sedona. I do suggest planning to spend two days in Grand Canyon, firstly because it is vast, and secondly because the weather (especially in the winter) may make your day unpleasant, as it did for us on Day 1.
Days 9-10: Sedona’s Serenity
Driving Times:
- Grand Canyon to Sedona ~2 hours
Head to Sedona, famous for its red rock formations and spiritual energy. Stop at scenic viewpoints like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock along the way.
Sedona, Arizona, is a premier destination for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and artistic exploration. Known for its dramatic red rock landscapes, the area is home to iconic landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Devil’s Bridge, where visitors can enjoy scenic hikes and capture unforgettable views. These majestic formations offer the perfect backdrop for photography and outdoor enthusiasts alike, making Sedona a haven for those looking to connect with nature.
Beyond its natural beauty, Sedona is celebrated for its vibrant arts scene. The Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a must-see, where visitors can explore galleries, studios, and shops showcasing local craftsmanship. Sedona is also famous for its energy vortexes, attracting those in search of spiritual experiences. Whether you’re hiking, shopping, or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, Sedona provides an enriching experience that blends nature, culture, and tranquility.
I felt that Sedona is one of the most beautiful cities in the country and is time well spent for however long you’re able to stay.
Day 11: Shabbat in Sedona and Farewell
Spend Shabbat in the tranquil environment of Sedona. Join Chabad of Sedona for Shabbat services and a communal meal, if offered.
Chabad of Sedona hosts a Friday night service and dinner once monthly and a Shabbat morning service followed by a Kiddush lunch, monthly. On most other weeks, there are Shabbat morning services followed by a light kiddush. Check the Chabad’s calendar or contact them to organize services. The Chabad did host a lunch after services on the week we were there.
If you have an opportunity to take a long walk around Sedona on Shabbat afternoon, do it. It’s one of the most fascinatingly beautiful towns in America.
After Shabbat, drive to Phoenix (about 2+ hours) for a final kosher meal at Manhattan Pizza. Return your rental car and prepare for your flight home, concluding an unforgettable Arizona adventure.
Tips for Kosher Observant & All Travelers to Arizona
- Plan Ahead for Kosher Food: Stock up on kosher snacks and meals at Phoenix’s Imperial Market & Deli and Scottsdale’s Trader Joe’s markets for long driving days.
- Download the YeahThatsKosherNearMe app to locate kosher businesses nearby.
- Pack Layers: Arizona temperatures can vary significantly, especially in January. We experienced beautiful 70º in Phoenix and snow at the Grand Canyon in the same week in January. In the summertime, expect extreme heat.
- Get a National Park Pass: An America the Beautiful Pass covers entrance fees to all national parks, saving you money. This is especially helpful if you plan on visiting more than one National Park on this road trip or even within a full year.
- For hikers: download the AllTrails app to find the best hikes for you and your family.
This flexible itinerary allows for customization while ensuring that kosher travelers can fully experience Arizona’s natural wonders and vibrant cities.
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