Explore Arizona
Road trips show guests why you’re thankful to live in this beauty.
Whether you’re taking visiting family or friends on a road trip this weekend or you just want to get them out of your house for a while, we’ve got you covered.
Here are travel tips for three popular Arizona destinations.
Sedona
EAT: Elote Cafe is a foodie paradise, so be prepared to wait for a table at the no-reservations, dinner-only restaurant. Rest assured, the food is worth it. Don’t miss the guacamole or the Elote, fire-roasted corn with spicy mayo, lime and Cotija cheese. Insider tip: Head to the restaurant just before closing during the week for a shorter wait. (It’s closed Sundays and Mondays.) Pick up a copy of the restaurant’s cookbook on the way out.
Details: 771 Arizona 179 (in the Kings Ransom Sedona Hotel). 928-2030105, elotecafe.com.
PLAY: Pink Jeeps are as ubiquitous as red rocks in Sedona. One of the most popular tours is the Broken Arrow Tour, a two-hour off-road outing with views and thrills galore. You pass through a suburb and disappear into the timber. Minutes later, you’re climbing up the side of the famous red rocks. Views are dazzling across Munds Mountain Wilderness, and there are two spots — Submarine Rock and Chicken Point — where passengers pile out of the Jeep to soak up the scenery and let some blood rush back to their whitened knuckles.
Details: 204 Arizona 89A. 800-873-3662, pink jeeptours.com.
STAY: Sedona Motel offers a great location at the junction of Arizona 179 and 89A and basic, spacious rooms with a big
EAT: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at the res- plus: a front patio perfect for soaking in the scenery any time of day. You can walk to uptown, Tlaquepaque and other galleries. Rooms have hair dryers, microwave ovens, refrigerators and coffeemakers. Unlike many upscale hotels and resorts, Sedona Motel gives you free Wi-Fi.
Details: 218 Arizona 179. 928-282-7187, www .thesedonamotel.com.
Grand Canyon
taurant in the historical El Tovar hotel. Relax and enjoy the rustic flair — high ceilings, log walls and fireplaces at both ends. The menu highlights chicken, fish, beef and pasta, with vegetarian options and a few game dishes. El Tovar also serves breakfast and lunch for those who want a more budget-friendly meal. A few choice tables have Canyon views. Come early for your best chance to be seated at one. Reservations are advisable at dinner.
Details: 928-638-2631, grandcanyonlodges.com/ el-tovar-409.html.
PLAY: The Rim Trail, a partially paved and mostly flat route that stretches from the village area to Hermit’s Rest, is just the ticket for first-time visitors and those who are happy to stroll along the abyss and enjoy the view. The Trail of Time covers 1.3 miles between Verkamp’s Visitor Center and the Yavapai Observation Station. It includes interpretive signs and large samples of the various types of rock that make up the Canyon. Bronze markers in the pavement provide a timeline of the Canyon’s formation.
Details: 928-638-7888, nps.gov/grca/planyour visit/day-hiking.htm.
STAY: The Grand Hotel in Tusayan, just south of the park entrance, was built to resemble a sprawling chalet. With
EAT: Since 1910, the restaurant at Molly Butler Lodge has been a favorite with locals and visitors. From flaky salmon to tender prime rib, the restaurant serves delicious food in a fun, friendly atmosphere. The comfort-food menu fea-