Planning an Arizona Road Trip Adventure

If you’re craving a breathtaking Southwest adventure, Arizona offers a perfect blend of vibrant cities, incredible landscapes, and family-friendly activities. Our latest episode of Wonderland on Points takes you along a listener-submitted 5-day, 800-mile road trip covering Phoenix, Flagstaff, Sedona, and Page — packed with travel tips, points and miles hacks, and local favorites.

Why Arizona?

Arizona’s diverse scenery is unlike anywhere else — from the desert cacti of Phoenix to the red rocks of Sedona and the pine forests near Flagstaff. This road trip showcases it all. If you want to explore stunning natural landmarks without sacrificing comfort, there are plenty of great hotel options. We highlight stays in Wyndham properties that you can book using points.

Top Stops and Activities

• Phoenix is your gateway city with plenty of hotel options and rental car deals. Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and rent a car to start your road trip adventure.

• Flagstaff offers cooler mountain air and access to the Grand Canyon. While the drive between Phoenix and Flagstaff can be challenging—especially in winter—the scenic views are worth it. Be sure to prepare for changing weather if you visit in colder months.

• Sedona is famous for its red rock formations and hiking trails like Bell Rock Pathway. Sedona’s artsy vibe and great local eats, including Mexican restaurants with free chips and salsa, make it a perfect stop. Don’t miss watching the sunset from Airport Drive.

• Page is home to spectacular sights like Horseshoe Bend and Lower Antelope Canyon. Visiting Antelope Canyon requires a guided tour, which includes photography tips to capture the stunning sandstone formations.

Travel Tips for Families and Points Users

Families will appreciate the mix of outdoor activities and comfortable accommodations. From mini golf in Page’s Barnyard restaurant to kid-friendly hikes, this trip balances adventure and ease. Using points and miles wisely can save you hundreds on hotels and flights. For example, American Airlines miles got our traveler from Philadelphia to Phoenix, while Wyndham points covered several hotel nights.

Stay Updated and Prepared

While planning your trip, keep an eye on local conditions—wildfire season can impact parts of Arizona, especially near the Grand Canyon. Always check the latest park alerts before heading out.

Planning Your Trip

• Use credit cards like the Wyndham Business Earner Card to rack up points for hotel stays.

• Book your rental car early and compare sites like AutoSlash or Costco for deals.

• Consider timing your visit during spring or fall for ideal weather.

This road trip is a fantastic way to experience the best of Arizona’s Southwest landscapes, culture, and hospitality—all while making smart travel choices that save money and stress.

Ready to start planning? Listen to the full episode for detailed tips and stories, and check out our [links to related episodes and resources] to make the most of your next adventure