Day 1
Arrive in Phoenix, Arizona and drive to Scottsdale
Arrive in Phoenix and pick up your rental car, ready to start your adventure. Stroll through the stunning Desert Botanical Garden or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of downtown Phoenix. Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a local diner, savouring Arizona’s southwestern cuisine. Afterward, head to Scottsdale for an overnight stay, where you can explore its lively arts scene, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife before resting up for the next day's adventures.
Overnight: Hyatt Place Scottsdale Old Town or similar
Day 2
Phoenix to Grand Canyon via Williams (235 miles)
This morning, start your road trip to the Grand Canyon via Williams, a historic Route 66 town. Explore Williams’ nostalgic shops and diners before continuing on to the South Rim. The scenic drive takes you through forests and hills, offering stunning views. Arrive in the late afternoon, catch a sunset over the Canyon, and relax for the night.
Overnight: Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon or similar
Day 3
Grand Canyon
Spend the entire day at the Grand Canyon. Explore iconic viewpoints like Mather Point and Yaki Point, hike along the South Rim Trail, or venture down into the Canyon on the Bright Angel Trail. Don’t miss the historic Grand Canyon Village, where you can visit museums, shops, and lodges. In the evening, enjoy a sunset over the Canyon before returning to your accommodations for the night.
Overnight: Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon or similar
Day 4
Grand Canyon to Flagstaff (80 miles)
Take a scenic drive from the Grand Canyon to Flagstaff. Once in Flagstaff, spend the afternoon exploring the town’s historic downtown area, with its charming buildings and Route 66 vibe. You can visit the Route 66-themed museums, browse the local shops, or relax in a cozy café. Flagstaff is known for its clear skies, so if you're interested, consider visiting the Lowell Observatory for stargazing in the evening.
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Flagstaff or similar
Day 5
Flagstaff to Gallup, New Mexico (200 miles)
Marvel at the ancient, colourful wood of the Petrified Forest, then take a detour to Holbrook to visit the Blue Hole and explore quirky, vintage Route 66 motels. Continue to Gallup, where you can admire murals celebrating Native American heritage. Don’t miss a stop at the iconic El Rancho Hotel and Restaurant, a historic Route 66 landmark known for its old Hollywood connections, and overnight on The Mother Road.
Overnight: Best Western Plus Gallup Inn & Suites or similar
Day 6
Gallup to Albuquerque (140 miles)
Drive through the charming town of Tucumcari to admire classic Route 66 landmarks, such as the iconic Blue Swallow Motel. Explore the picturesque Albuquerque’s Old Town, featuring beautifully preserved historic buildings dating back to the 1700s. Visit the fascinating Route 66 Auto Museum, where you can discover a stunning collection of vintage cars and nostalgic memorabilia. Finally, take a leisurely walk along Central Avenue, Albuquerque’s vibrant version of Route 66, filled with unique shops and lively atmosphere.
Overnight: Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn or similar
Day 7
Albuquerque to Santa Fe (65 miles)
Stop by the Route 66 Diner for lunch in Albuquerque before continuing your journey. Although Santa Fe isn’t directly on Route 66, it’s nearby and well worth the detour for its distinctive mix of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo influences. Explore the vibrant Santa Fe Plaza, its art galleries, and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Don’t miss the chance to savour the flavours of southwestern cuisine at a traditional local restaurant.
Overnight: Best Western Plus Inn Of Santa Fe or similar
Day 8
Santa Fe to Las Cruces (280 miles)
Continue south toward Las Cruces, with an optional stop in Truth or Consequences, a quirky town famous for its hot springs. Once in Las Cruces, explore Old Mesilla, a historic village full of charm and rich cultural history. Don’t miss the stunning Organ Mountains and White Sands National Park, where you can take in the surreal beauty of the vast, white gypsum sand dunes.
Overnight: Fairfield Inn Las Cruces or similar
Day 9
Las Cruces to Tombstone Monument Ranch (260 miles)
Wake up early and journey to see the old frontier town of Tombstone, an immersive Old West experience. Have a chance to explore the town and visit the Tombstone Courthouse, OK Corral, and see reenactments of the famous gunfight at the OK Corral. Check into the Tombstone Monument Ranch, a true western style working ranch.
If the Tombstone Monument Ranch is not available check out our alternative ranches nearby.
Overnight: Tombstone Monument Ranch. Lunch and dinner included.
Day 10 – Day 11
Tombstone Monument Ranch
Two full days at Tombstone Monument Ranch allows you to experience cowboy life. With a variety of activities included in your stay, you’ll be able to try your hand at horseback riding, team penning sport shooting, UTV tours and archery. There is a pool and hot tub onsite for a chance to soak after a jam-packed day along with evening entertainment under the stars.
Overnight: Tombstone Monument Ranch. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 12
Tombstone Monument Ranch to Phoenix Airport (190 miles)
If you have time before your flight, take a visit to Camelback Mountain or enjoy lunch in Phoenix’s vibrant downtown area before dropping your car hire off and flying home.
