The Perfect Grand Canyon & Golf Trip
Waste Management Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course

The Perfect Grand Canyon & Golf Trip

This customizable 7-day road trip includes great views, delicious food and the Grand Canyon—because you deserve to go big on your next golf trip.

If the above weren't enough, we've also included a scenic detour on Historic Route 66, making this a truly "can't miss" itinerary.

You'll putt world-famous championship courses in Phoenix, slice balls through stunning scenery in Sedona, and take your game to new heights in Flagstaff. Don't forget to review our tips for golfing in Arizona before you go, and get ready to have the best golf trip of your life.

DAY 1: PHOENIX

A figure sits at a table on which multiple plates of food and cocktails are waiting to be tasted

Century Grand evokes the elegance of the 1920s with bespoke cocktails, whiskey and intimate dining. (Credit: Grace Stufkosky)

Phoenix boasts more than 200 golf courses and is the Arizona airport most often chosen by those flying in from out of state. That makes it a natural jumping-off point for your epic golf trip. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon getting situated with a rental car and accommodations. (You'll want to rent a car for this week-long golf trip that takes you through the best fairways in central and northern Arizona.)

That evening, pick up any last-minute items downtown and enjoy some of the flavors of Arizona's biggest city. We know you're here to golf, but this state is home to "food worth traveling for." Phoenix is a great place to sample a large variety of flavors: from farm-to-table eats to classic fare like the Sonoran hot dog. Over 100 craft breweries are located within the greater city limits, too. Just don't overdo it—tomorrow you'll be working hard to burn off those calories.

DAY 2: PHOENIX

A green golf course near purple mountains. Desert plants surround the course

Grayhawk Golf Club, Scottsdale

On your first full day in Arizona, get a hole-in-one at a local course. As we mentioned, there are a mind-boggling number of courses to choose from, so let us help you narrow it down.

Perhaps you'll pick one of Arizona's most unique fairways, like the Grayhawk Golf Club, known for its notoriously challenging par 5. Alternatively, you might select the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course, where the fan-favorite Waste Management Phoenix Open is held every year. Of course, you really can't go wrong today—all 200-plus local courses are sure to have beautiful scenery and temperate weather in common.

DAY 3: SEDONA

1 Hour 55 Minutes – 116 miles / 187 km

On your third day, journey north to the world-famous Sedona. Known for its striking red-rock formations and lush landscape covered in juniper and piñon pine, Sedona is popular among outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and of course, golfers. Take the better part of today to explore. Red Rock State Park is a great place to stretch the legs alongside tranquil Oak Creek while you try and spot some of Sedona's wildlife, such as javelinas, mule deer, and plentiful birdlife. Had enough walking? Go for a ride in a Pink Jeep or simply post up at Red Rock Crossing for an afternoon with a good book. For more ideas, take a look at our top 25 things not to miss on your next trip to Sedona.

DAY 4: SEDONA

A man swings a golf club on a course set against the backdrop of Sedona's Red Rock State Park

Golfing in Sedona has its share of perks, such as the beautiful views

You'll undoubtedly be eager to get back to your driver on day four. Putt beneath the red rocks at one of Sedona's four golf courses. Sedona Golf Resort offers exceptional views of Cathedral Rock, while Seven Canyons Golf Club in Coconino National Forest provides another equally beautiful angle. Truth be told, whether you're practicing your technical game or keeping things more casual, there's a course for everyone in Red Rock Country.

DAY 5: FLAGSTAFF

50 Minutes – 29.6 miles / 47.6 km

People sit in chairs and at tables with pints of beer in a well-lit bar

Dark Sky Brewing Co., Flagstaff

The following day, level up (at least in elevation) in Flagstaff. Located only 50 minutes north of Sedona, the drive north on 89A to the Mogollon Rim is tremendously scenic. (You'll gain 4,500 feet along the way.)

We recommend spending the day at one of the golf courses nearby: the Continental Golf Club or Elephant Rocks Golf Course, 40 minutes west in Williams—a great place to stretch your eyes across miles of uninterrupted pine forests in the distance. That evening, partake in the laid-back local vibe in downtown Flagstaff. Wonderful restaurants, micro-breweries along the Flagstaff Brewery Trail, and shopping await. Did we mention historic Route 66 runs right through the heart of town?

DAY 6: GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

1 Hour 18 Minutes – 82.5 miles / 132.7 km

A man and a child ride on horses along a trail in Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon on horseback is an entirely different experience. (Credit: Scott Johnson Photography)

Finally, it's time to experience the Grand Canyon State's namesake: Grand Canyon National Park. Under an hour and a half north of Flagstaff, this is one of America's Crown-Jewel parks—and understandably so. This astounding natural formation is 277 miles long, one-mile deep, and up to 18 miles wide; peeking over its rim is a top bucket list item for travelers around the world.

Check it off your list today and enjoy visiting the several visitor centers and walking, riding or biking trails on the South Rim. The added bonus of today's journey (as if you needed more reason), is that you'll be able to journey on Route 66 from Flagstaff towards the Grand Canyon.

DAY 7: TRAVELER'S CHOICE

After a week of golfing and exploring Arizona, you may be ready to return home or prefer to continue on. Retrace your steps to Phoenix, or extend your trip—we would definitely understand if you need to stay a little longer.

About the Author

Arizona Office of Tourism

These articles are brought to you by the staff of the Arizona Office of Tourism, and occasionally local tourism organizations around the state.

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