GRAND CANYON & NORTHERN ARIZONA
Northern Arizona is a land of monumental scale, dominated by the colossal chasm of the Grand Canyon. It is a region where the dramatic history of the West and ancient cultures converge with breathtaking natural wonders.
This majestic high desert landscape is a stunning showcase of geology, painting a vibrant palette of red rock formations, pine forests, and clear, starry skies. It is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the American Southwest.
Most Popular Attractions
Grand Canyon National Park – South Rim (The Most Visited Section):
Mather Point: A popular, easily accessible first view for many visitors, offering a sweeping panoramic perspective of the canyon.
Yavapai Point & Geology Museum: Provides excellent views and informative exhibits on the canyon’s formation and rock layers.
Bright Angel Trail: One of the most famous and well-maintained trails for hiking into the canyon (permits/reservations required for overnight).
South Kaibab Trail: A steep, challenging trail offering spectacular views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Grand Canyon Village Historic District: The main hub with historic lodges (like El Tovar Hotel), gift shops, and visitor services.
Desert View Watchtower: A historic stone tower designed by Mary Colter, offering views of the eastern canyon, the Colorado River, and the Painted Desert.
Hermit Road Scenic Drive: A route offering multiple viewpoints (like Hopi Point and Pima Point) with spectacular views of the inner canyon and river.
Grand Canyon National Park – North Rim (Less Crowded, Higher Elevation):
Bright Angel Point Trail: A short, paved trail leading to the main viewpoint near the Grand Canyon Lodge.
Point Imperial: The highest viewpoint on the North Rim, offering spectacular vistas of the canyon’s eastern reaches and Marble Canyon.
Cape Royal: A viewpoint offering expansive, southern-facing views and a natural arch (Angels Window).
Flagstaff Area & Mountains:
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: A cinder cone volcano and lava flows that erupted less than a thousand years ago.
Wupatki National Monument: Preserves four major prehistoric ruins of the ancient Sinagua people.
Lowell Observatory: Where Pluto was discovered; a historic observatory offering stargazing programs.
Arizona Snowbowl: A ski resort on the slopes of the San Francisco Peaks, the highest mountain range in Arizona.
Sedona Area (Red Rock Country):
Cathedral Rock: An iconic, massive sandstone butte famous for its photographic beauty and believed vortex energy.
Airport Mesa: A popular spot for sunset and sunrise views, offering panoramic vistas of Sedona’s red rock formations.
Chapel of the Holy Cross: A Roman Catholic chapel built directly into the red rock buttes, offering incredible views.
Slide Rock State Park: A former apple farm featuring a natural water slide formed by a slick creek bed.
Northern Arizona Highway & Town Attractions:
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park: Iconic red-rock mesas and buttes featured in many classic Western films (managed by the Navajo Nation, located on the AZ/UT border).
Horseshoe Bend: A dramatic, almost 270-degree U-shaped meander of the Colorado River near the town of Page.
Antelope Canyon: A stunning slot canyon renowned for its wave-like structure and beams of light (Upper and Lower Canyons, require a Navajo guide).
Route 66 in Williams: A classic stretch of the “Main Street of America,” with vintage diners and gas stations.
Walnut Canyon National Monument: Contains ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people in shallow caves.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the South Kaibab or Bright Angel Trail: Embark on a memorable, but challenging, hike into the Grand Canyon’s inner corridor. (Note: Day hikes should turn around well before the halfway point).
Watch the Sunset/Sunrise from Mather Point or Hopi Point: Experience the dramatic shifting colors and shadows across the Canyon’s vast expanse at one of the premier viewpoints.
Take a Scenic Drive along Desert View Drive (South Rim): Stop at overlooks like Lipan Point and Desert View Watchtower for spectacular and varied perspectives of the Canyon.
Experience a Colorado River Rafting Trip: Choose from a mellow half-day float trip near Glen Canyon Dam (Page) or a multi-day whitewater adventure through the Canyon’s heart.
Walk the Trail of Time (South Rim): A paved, 2.8-mile trail that serves as a geological timeline, with markers representing a million years of the Canyon’s history for every meter you walk.
Visit Horseshoe Bend (Page, AZ): Capture an iconic photo of the U-shaped meander of the Colorado River near the town of Page.
Explore Antelope Canyon (Page, AZ): Take a guided tour through the spectacular Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon slot canyons, known for their light beams and sculpted sandstone walls.
Drive the scenic Oak Creek Canyon between Flagstaff and Sedona: Enjoy the breathtaking drive through a beautiful gorge often called the “mini-Grand Canyon,” perfect for hiking and swimming.
Discover Ancient History at Walnut Canyon National Monument (Flagstaff): Explore ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people, offering a glimpse into the region’s pre-Columbian past.
Hike to a Waterfall at Havasupai Reservation: Experience the iconic turquoise-blue waters and waterfalls (Havasu Falls, Mooney Falls) after securing a difficult-to-obtain permit and an overnight stay.
Ride the Grand Canyon Railway (from Williams, AZ): Take a historic, scenic train journey from Williams directly to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
See the Volcanoes at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument (Flagstaff): Walk through the rugged, cooled lava flows and volcanic ash fields of an ancient, dormant volcano.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential (Outside the Canyon): A rental car is the best way to explore the vast distances and diverse sights of Northern Arizona (Flagstaff, Sedona, Page, Petrified Forest). Distances are great, and public transport is minimal.
South Rim Shuttle System (Inside the Canyon): Once inside the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, the free shuttle bus system is mandatory for accessing many viewpoints and trailheads (like Hermit Road). Park your car at your lodging or a designated lot and rely on the buses.
Know the North Rim Access: The Grand Canyon North Rim is only open seasonally (typically mid-May through mid-October) and is a 4.5-hour drive (220 miles) from the South Rim, so plan your visit accordingly.
Watch for Wildlife: On roads in and around the park, especially at dawn and dusk, watch out for deer, elk, and other animals. Drive slowly, particularly in the dark.
Mind the Elevation: The South Rim sits around 7,000 feet (2,134 m). Take time to acclimate, especially before undertaking strenuous hikes. Flagstaff and the North Rim are even higher.
Hiking Safety is Paramount: Hiking down into the Canyon is much easier than hiking back up. Do not attempt to hike to the river and back in one day. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, wear appropriate footwear, and start your hike early.
Respect Tribal Lands: Much of Northern Arizona is Navajo Nation land (including Antelope Canyon and areas around Page). Permits are required for hiking/exploring off-road areas, and guided tours are mandatory for places like Antelope Canyon. Always be respectful of local customs and follow all rules.
Book Well in Advance: Lodging inside the Grand Canyon National Park (especially the South Rim) is highly coveted and often sells out 9-12 months in advance. The same applies to popular tours, such as rafting and Antelope Canyon.
Don’t Forget the Night Sky: Northern Arizona, particularly Flagstaff, is known for its dark skies. The Grand Canyon is an International Dark Sky Park. Take time to look up—stargazing here is incredible.
Hidden Gems:
- The Meteor Crater: Located near Winslow, this is the world’s best-preserved meteorite impact site, offering a fascinating look at a massive terrestrial impact event.
- Red Mountain (near Williams): A lesser-known volcanic cinder cone with a short, unique hike into a “hoodoo” filled bowl.
- The Painted Desert/Petrified Forest National Park: While a bit further east, the vibrant colors of the Painted Desert and the ancient fossilized wood make this a stunning, essential Northern Arizona stop.
- Shoshone Point (South Rim): One of the best picnic/group spots in the Canyon, accessible via a 1-mile forest walk from a small, unmarked parking area off the main road. It offers private, spectacular views.
Top Restaurants
Harvey House Café [$15-$30] – Located in Bright Angel Lodge on the South Rim, this casual, family-friendly diner serves traditional American and diner-style dishes in a historic setting.
Yavapai Tavern [$15-$30] – Situated in Yavapai Lodge on the South Rim, this spot offers a full bar, Arizona craft beers, and Southwest-inspired plates like elk burgers and street tacos with a rare outdoor patio and fire pit.
Phantom Ranch Canteen [$15-$30] – A truly unique dining experience only accessible at the bottom of the Grand Canyon via hiking or mule ride, serving fixed-price, hearty, and family-style meals.
Bright Angel Bicycles and Cafe [$10-$20] – Near the South Rim Visitor Center, this is a casual spot for quick, healthy bites like wraps, salads, and coffee, perfect for hikers and cyclists.
Desert View Market & Deli [$10-$20] – A convenient stop at the South Rim’s east end for grab-and-go deli sandwiches, snacks, and market provisions for your canyon adventure.
Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room (North Rim) [$25-$50] – Offers scenic and refined dining with regional-inspired flavors, perfect for relaxing and reflecting on North Rim adventures with spectacular views.
Roughrider Saloon (North Rim) [$10-$25] – A cozy North Rim spot for light bites, local craft brews, and classic saloon fare, including a savory breakfast burrito to start your day.
MartAnne’s Burrito Palace (Flagstaff) [$10-$20] – A Flagstaff institution on Route 66, renowned for its hearty, authentic New Mexican-style Mexican food, especially their famous chilaquiles for breakfast.
Salsa Brava (Flagstaff) [$15-$25] – A vibrant joint known for its excellent salsa bar, ample portions of familiar Mexican fare, and creative margaritas. It was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Brown Mug Café (Winslow) [$10-$20] – A cozy, comfortable hole-in-the-wall on Route 66 since the 1950s, offering a mix of tasty American and Mexican comfort dishes.
Diablo Burger (Flagstaff) [$15-$25] – Consistently voted the best burger in Flagstaff, specializing in grass-fed, locally-sourced beef burgers on English muffins.
Black Bart’s Steakhouse (Flagstaff) [$25-$50] – A classic, rustic steakhouse known for large portions of steaks, ribs, and chops, with nightly entertainment provided by singing servers.
Charly’s Pub & Grill (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – Located in the historic Weatherford Hotel, this pub offers traditional American fare and local favorites in a lively atmosphere downtown.
Tourist Home All Day Cafe (Flagstaff) [$10-$20] – A local favorite in a historic building offering excellent coffee, baked goods, and creative breakfast and lunch dishes with a cozy, communal feel.
Biff’s Bagels (Flagstaff) [$5-$15] – A popular, no-frills spot for fresh, hand-rolled bagels, bagel sandwiches, and coffee, highly favored by locals for a quick bite.
Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A beloved local spot famous for its gourmet breakfast and lunch, including house-baked pastries and comfort food classics.
The Northern Pines Restaurant (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A classic, rustic diner specializing in homestyle American comfort food and a fantastic all-day breakfast menu.
Agave Mexican Restaurant (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – Offers authentic Mexican dishes and Southwestern fare with a focus on genuine flavors and fresh ingredients.
Bigfoot BBQ (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A rustic, Sasquatch-themed spot serving up “good old fashioned hillbilly barbecue,” known for its slow-smoked meats and lively atmosphere.
The Toasted Owl Cafe (Flagstaff) [$15-$25] – A colorful and eccentric cafe with two locations, famous for its breakfast and lunch, and known for vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.
Beaver Street Brewery (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A genuine brewpub in downtown Flagstaff offering a casual, friendly atmosphere, with a large menu of pub fare and house-brewed beers.
Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery (Flagstaff) [$10-$20] – A long-time Flagstaff institution and local treasure, known for its excellent coffee, house-baked goods, and commitment to the community.
Proper Meats + Provisions (Flagstaff) [$20-$40] – A butcher shop and restaurant on Route 66 specializing in local, sustainable whole-animal butchery, offering exceptional house-made sausages and sandwiches.
The Hudson (Sedona) [$20-$40] – Perched atop the Hillside Shopping Plaza, this American eatery offers upscale comfort food, crafted cocktails, and some of Sedona’s best red rock views from its spacious deck.
Mesa Grill Sedona (Sedona) [$20-$40] – Located next to the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout, it offers bold Southwest flavors and comfort dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all with panoramic red rock views.
Creekside American Bistro (Sedona) [$20-$40] – Offers contemporary American dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and fantastic views of Oak Creek and the red rocks.
Red Rock Café (Sedona/Oak Creek) [$10-$20] – A classic, family-run American diner known for its legendary, massive cinnamon rolls and hearty breakfast/lunch fare.
Oak Creek Brewery & Grill (Sedona) [$15-$30] – Located in Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, this brewery and grill offers pub favorites, wood-fired pizzas, and house-brewed craft beers.
Shift Kitchen & Bar (Flagstaff) [$25-$45] – An intimate space featuring contemporary American small plates and entrees, with a hyper-seasonal menu that often draws inspiration from Appalachian cuisine.
Atria (Flagstaff) [$40-$70] – Located in the heart of historic downtown Flagstaff, this restaurant offers modern American fare with a focus on farm-fresh, seasonal, and locally-grown goodness.
Pizzicletta (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A must-visit for pizza lovers, this acclaimed spot serves authentic, thin-crust, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza with nontraditional toppings.
Tinderbox Kitchen (Flagstaff) [$30-$50] – Offers a sophisticated, contemporary dining experience with a menu focused on high-quality, seasonal American cuisine, popular for its creative dishes.
Annex Cocktail Lounge (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – The sister establishment to Tinderbox Kitchen, offering an elevated cocktail experience with a selection of refined small bites and desserts.
SoSoBa (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – An innovative noodle house that serves creative, Asian-inspired comfort food and award-winning sake, with a commitment to local ingredients.
Lotus Lounge (Flagstaff) [$15-$35] – A vibrant spot offering Japanese fusion cuisine, known for its fresh sushi, inventive cocktails, and energetic, modern atmosphere.
Red Curry Vegan Kitchen (Flagstaff) [$15-$25] – A highly-regarded spot that brings authentic, fully vegan Thai flavors to Flagstaff, popular for its rich curries and classic Thai dishes.
Hideaway House (Sedona) [$15-$35] – A unique spot offering Italian-American comfort food, specializing in gourmet pizzas and pasta, with multiple levels of patios providing stunning red rock views.
Rene at Tlaquepaque (Sedona) [$30-$60] – Located in the scenic Tlaquepaque Village, this elegant restaurant offers Continental cuisine with a Southwestern flair, perfect for a refined meal.
El Tovar Dining Room (Grand Canyon South Rim) [$40-$90] – The premier fine dining experience on the South Rim, located in the historic El Tovar Hotel, offering a blend of international and local Southwest influences in a rustic, classic, and elegant atmosphere with canyon views (reservations essential).
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill (Sedona) [$50-$100] – A fine dining experience with unparalleled, sweeping red rock views, offering Latin-inspired cuisine focused on wood-fired grilling of steaks and seafood.
L’Auberge Restaurant on Oak Creek (Sedona) [$70-$150] – Located at the luxurious L’Auberge de Sedona, this is a truly high-end, romantic dining experience with French-inspired, locally sourced cuisine right on the banks of Oak Creek.
SaltRock Southwest Grill (Sedona) [$40-$70] – Located at the Amara Resort, this restaurant offers elevated, modern Southwestern cuisine and craft tequila cocktails with breathtaking views of the red rocks.
Cress on Oak Creek (Sedona) [$100-$200] – An ultra-romantic, intimate fine dining experience (often multi-course tasting menus) at L’Auberge de Sedona, where you dine creekside for an unforgettable ambiance.
Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar (Flagstaff) [$50-$80] – An upscale restaurant in Flagstaff known for its seasonal, locally-farmed, and sustainable menu of contemporary American cuisine and an impressive wine selection.
Josephine’s Modern American Bistro (Flagstaff) [$40-$70] – Nestled in a quaint bungalow, this bistro is known for its exceptional modern American cuisine, refined atmosphere, and commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients.
1899 Bar & Grill (Flagstaff) [$30-$60] – Located on the Northern Arizona University campus, this upscale-casual spot offers refined contemporary American cuisine focusing on local and regional ingredients.
Cornish Pasty Company (Flagstaff) [$15-$25] – A unique and popular spot specializing in the traditional British pasty, with a wide variety of savory and sweet fillings, perfect for a hearty meal.
Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In (Seligman) [$10-$20] – A legendary Route 66 icon known for its classic road food (burgers, shakes) and the playful, mischievous gags of the owner’s family, offering a blast of nostalgia.
Roadkill Cafe (Seligman) [$10-$25] – A quirky, themed cafe on Route 66 offering classic American food with a humorous “Roadkill” menu theme (don’t worry, it’s just regular meat!).
We Cook Pizza & Pasta (Tusayan) [$15-$30] – A reliable, family-friendly Italian restaurant just outside the South Rim park entrance, offering comfort food like pizza, pasta, and calzones.
Big E Steakhouse (Tusayan) [$25-$50] – A carnivore’s paradise just outside the South Rim, serving massive portions of steaks, ribs, and chops, with a rustic, Old West feel.
Plaza Bonita (Tusayan) [$15-$30] – Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with all the classics, known for its bold flavors and a serious salsa bar, perfect for a lively meal after a day at the Canyon.
Sedona Airport Restaurant [$10-$25] – Located on the airport mesa, this casual spot offers a mix of American and Southwestern dishes with spectacular, unobstructed views of the red rocks, especially at sunset.
Rascal Modern American Diner (Sedona) [$15-$35] – A modern take on the classic diner, offering comfort food favorites and creative dishes in a stylish, comfortable setting.
FLG Terroir Wine Bar & Bistro (Flagstaff) [$15-$35] – A cozy second-story wine haven with an extensive selection of wines and a menu of small plates and bistro fare overlooking downtown Flagstaff.
Delhi Palace (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A highly praised restaurant renowned for its authentic and flavorful Indian cuisine, offering a journey to the heart of India without leaving Flagstaff.
Satchmo’s BBQ (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A celebration of Cajun, Creole, and barbecue tradition, serving slow-smoked pork ribs, jambalaya, and po’boys, voted Flagstaff’s best barbecue.
Drinking Horn Meadery (Flagstaff) [$15-$30] – A truly unique downtown Flagstaff experience focusing on mead (honey wine) brewed on-site, with a small menu of appetizers and pub fare.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
El Tovar Cocktail Lounge: Located within the historic El Tovar Hotel on the Grand Canyon South Rim, this atmospheric watering hole, opened in 1905, offers classic cocktails, a full bar, and a small veranda with seasonal rim-side sunset views.
Yavapai Tavern: Found within the Yavapai Lodge at the Grand Canyon South Rim, this full bar and eatery offers Southwestern cocktails, local Arizona craft beer, and a cozy fire pit on one of the South Rim’s rare outdoor dining spaces.
Annex Cocktail Lounge: A sophisticated, Prohibition-era-inspired speakeasy in Downtown Flagstaff, it’s known for its handcrafted cocktails, extensive whiskey list, and intimate, cozy setting.
The Point Bar & Lounge: This craft cocktail bar in Prescott, located just north of the historic Whiskey Row, focuses on freshly squeezed juices, house-made bitters, and over 150 whisk(e)ys in a classic speakeasy style.
Redwall Distillery & Lounge: A unique spot in Sedona with breathtaking views of Thunder Mountain, this lounge crafts its own spirits (whiskey, vodka, gin) on-premises and offers specialty cocktails and weekly live music.
SaltRock Southwest Kitchen: An elegant venue in Sedona known for its inventive, agave-forward cocktails and extensive tequila selection, often enjoyed on a patio with stunning red rock views.
The Hudson: An upscale eatery in Sedona that transforms into a lively night spot, featuring a full bar, fine wines, and cocktails, often with a vibrant DJ set later in the evening.
Vino Di Sedona: Located in Sedona, this spot is a haven for wine lovers, boasting the largest wine selection in town, along with craft beers, mead, and a full bar, all complemented by live music seven nights a week.
89Agave Cantina: A lively and colorful Mexican bar in the bustling heart of Sedona, specializing in tequila-based delights, including a wide array of margaritas.
SoSoBa: A popular noddle shop in Downtown Flagstaff that doubles as a craft cocktail bar, perfect for a late-night drink and bite with a unique Asian-inspired flair.
Charly’s Pub & Grill: Situated within the historic Weatherford Hotel in Downtown Flagstaff, this classic pub offers a full bar and a historic ambiance, often featuring live music.
Lotus Lounge Pan-Asian Kitchen: This bar in Downtown Flagstaff offers a modern, chic atmosphere with a full bar and signature drinks alongside its Pan-Asian cuisine.
Flagstaff Terroir Wine Bar & Bistro: A refined wine bar in Downtown Flagstaff focusing on an excellent selection of wines, which also offers a limited but well-curated cocktail and beer list in an upscale setting.
Oak Creek Brewery & Grill: Located in a shopping center in Sedona, this brewpub-style spot offers a range of craft beers, as well as spirits and cocktails, with a casual atmosphere and views.
The Vault Uptown: A modern American restaurant in Uptown Sedona with a full bar, offering handcrafted cocktails and a comfortable setting for a pre- or post-dinner drink.
The Orpheum Theatre: A historic entertainment venue in Downtown Flagstaff that regularly hosts live performances by musicians and comedians. While primarily a theatre, it features a full bar and lounge area, making it a key part of the local nightlife.
Yucca North: A dedicated music venue in Flagstaff that features a diverse lineup of bands and live shows, functioning as a lively club/concert hall for those seeking a high-energy night.
Mooney’s Irish Pub & Restaurant: A popular hangout in Sedona that offers live music, DJs, and is known for staying open late, providing a fun and energetic atmosphere for dancing and partying, especially on weekends.
Collins Irish Pub and Grill: A high-energy spot in Downtown Flagstaff known for its weekend late-night scene, featuring live DJs, a dance party atmosphere, and drink specials.
Club Deja Vu: A dedicated nightclub in Sedona known for its pulsating music, eclectic crowd, and vibrant club scene, offering a place to dance the night away.
Full Moon Saloon: Located in Sedona, this long-standing bar stays open until 2 am, offering a classic late-night vibe with pool tables, karaoke, and plenty of dancing, making it a proper club alternative.
The Basement Bar: A hidden, speakeasy-style dance space in Sedona offering an intimate environment, craft cocktails, and captivating beats from DJs.
The Museum Club: A historic roadhouse and dance hall in Flagstaff known for its live country and blues music, offering a large space for dancing and a taste of the Old West nightlife.
The Palace Saloon: Situated on the famous Whiskey Row in Prescott, this historic saloon is a classic spot that features a full bar and often hosts weekend entertainment, including live music and a lively, club-like feel.
Mirage Nightclub: While geographically closer to Northern Arizona, this Camp Verde venue (south of Sedona) is a dedicated modern nightclub with a large dance floor, VIP sections, and a high-energy atmosphere for dancing.