(TGA) - My boyfriend and I are going on a 1-week vacation in Arizona in mid-December. We've never been to AZ and are interested in sight-seeing, hiking, and some birding. We're flying into Las Vegas and planning to head to Sedona and stay there for a few days for hiking and seeing ruins - was thinking of staying at the Canyon Wren Cabins. I wasn't sure about going to the Grand Canyon given that it will be pretty cold then - figured we could save this for another trip during a warmer time of year.
After a few days in Sedona, we were thinking of heading south to Tucson where it's a little warmer. On the way to Tucson, we could stop at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, then arrive in Tucson early evening. In Tucson, we would hike, visit the Arizona Desert Museum, Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon, and maybe make a day trip south to see the Sandhill Cranes and other birding spots. I'm not sure where to stay in/near Tucson, but saw that the Hacienda del desierto had high scores on TA, and it's in our price range. Any other tips on places to stay near Tucson? We'll ultimately leave from Phoenix airport.
Does this seems like a reasonable trip to AZ for December - what are we missing? Should we make the day trip to the Grand Canyon?
Thanks!
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I think your trip looks great.
There's too much to see in Arizona for just one trip so, of course, you're missing a lot, but I do think that, for your time, it's a really good trip plan.
It will be cold at the Grand Canyon, but it's definitely worth a visit, especially if you've never been. Maybe plan on leaving later in the day from Vegas, drive to Williams, spend the night, then drive to the Canyon in the morning, with the next night in Sedona. But you'll need to watch the weather and highway conditions, because there is always the chance of snow.
As for where to stay here in Tucson, it depends on what you want to do here. Hacienda del Desierto is a nice property, but it's 15 miles out of the city and not really close to any restaurants, nightlife or shopping. If you want a quiet B&B in a beautiful area, then that would be a good choice. If you want to enjoy the city though, then you should stay closer into town. Maybe consider Hotel Congress, the Windmill Inn, the Doubletree or the Sheraton Four Points on Speedway. All are nice properties and should be in your price range. If you want a B&B, check out the Big Blue House and the Royal Elizabeth, both of which are very well-located.
hth
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We stayed here when in Tucson:
For the price of the B and B, you can have an entire house. Great scenery. Sits a short distance from the east Saguaro Natl Park. Of course... no one fixes your breakfast for you :) But, very nice properties. Great place to relax when you're not running around.
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The viewing area for the cranes is about 60 miles east of Tucson, along I-10. This is not the best season for trying to see them. I suggest, you do other things closer to Tucson. The sites you mention for hikes are good. There are some real challenging ones in Sabino Canyon - - Blackets Ridge is one, Seven Falls is another, and taking the phone line trail up to where the shuttle truns around, or down or round trip is also fun. If you decide to hike up and take the shhuttle down, be sure you buy the ticket at the Visitor Center before you take off.
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It makes sense to go to the GCNP on your way to Sedona from LV. Ideally you should spend the night there. It will enhance your GC experience greatly. Try to book a room at one of the hotels inside the park. www.grandcanyonlodges.com If you can't stay inside the park, then just do it on the way and stay in Sedona.
Canyon Wren gets good reviews among B&B lovers. And I'd second Hacienda del Desierto in Tucson if that's your style. We enjoyed our stay there.
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Thanks everyone - this is quite helpful! I really appreciate your time.
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Two more questions:
I'm a little concerned about planning a trip (with hotel) to the GCNP because of potential weather issues - that is, what if we book a hotel in the park but can't get there due to a storm? Just wondering if we have to punt how easy it would be to find a hotel last minute somewhere else. Maybe I'm overestimating the risk of not being able to get into the park?
Any other suggestions for places to stay in Sedona (not necessarily B&Bs)?
Thanks!
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If you can get a hotel inside the park at the GCNP, take it! Chances of weather keeping you away are extremely remote. You can call and cancel if that happens.
Sedona has all kinds of places to stay. what's your style? Price range?
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Okay - good to know about GCNP. We're looking for around $150 per night, and don't really want to be in the middle of town.
Thanks!
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Look at Sky Ranch Lodge in Sedona
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That is nice (good views and location) and very reasonably priced!
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