This post, featuring a one-week Arizona family vacation, may contain affiliate links. It also includes a hosted partnership with Best Western. All ideas and opinions are my own. For more information, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (see link below).
If you’re planning an Arizona family vacation and dreaming of wide-open skies, stunning red rocks, and unforgettable adventures, you’re in the right place. We spent one fantastic week over spring break exploring all three of Arizona’s national parks with our tween daughter—and it completely exceeded our expectations. From hiking the south rim of the Grand Canyon to walking among towering cacti and colorful desert canyons, every stop revealed a new side of the state’s breathtaking beauty. This Arizona National Park road trip itinerary is packed with unforgettable things to do with kids and thoughtful route planning to make the most of your time on the road and on the trails! Here’s how we recommend spending 1 fantastic week exploring Arizona’s stunning national parks with kids.
Tips for Taking an Arizona Family Vacation + Exploring the 3 National Parks
Exploring the state’s three national parks is one of the best parts of this Arizona family vacation, but it helps to go into the week with a few smart strategies. From packing the right gear to pacing your hikes, these tips will help keep everyone happy and energized. As you experience the many memorable things to do in Arizona with kids, keep these tips in mind:
- Get a National Parks Pass. If you visit more than two parks (which you will using this itinerary), the America the Beautiful pass pays off. Alternatively, if you have a 4th Grader (like we do!), sign up for the Every Kid Outdoors pass. It offers free admission for the whole family!
- Download maps in advance. Many areas have little to no cell service.
- Pack and dress in layers. Desert mornings are chilly, and temperatures rise quickly. (See more packing ideas below.)
- Pack enough water + snacks for everyone. Avoid snacks that will melt in the Arizona sun! And, everyone carries their own water bottle. This way, you can watch for possible dehydration and know everyone’s daily water intake.
- Watch the time. Start your hikes early to beat the heat and the crowds.
- Let kids complete the Junior Ranger Programs at the parks. They’re free, educational, and include fun activities and badges.
- Wear supportive footwear. If you plan to hike a lot (which you will use this itinerary!), ensure everyone has supportive hiking shoes/boots with ankle protection.
- Watch the sun. Use sunscreen and SPF-protective gear to avoid sunburns and keep yourself cool.
- Leave no trace. On all of your hikes and outdoor adventures, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace.
Packing List for Hiking in Arizona with Kids
Before you embark on a national park road trip in Arizona, there are a few unique items you will want to pack (in addition to your usual items). I created this locker to help you find sun guards, hiking shoes, and more to be properly outfitted for your trip.
Arizona Family Vacation Days 1 + 2: Flagstaff + Grand Cayon National Park with Kids
Kick off your Arizona family vacation with a scenic drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff—just over two hours from the airport and a great home base for exploring the Grand Canyon with kids. Flagstaff offers cooler temps, mountain views, and plenty of charm before you head north to one of the most iconic things to do in Arizona with kids: a visit to Grand Canyon National Park. These first two days set the tone for an unforgettable Arizona family vacation!
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Where to Stay in Flagstaff with Kids
For a comfortable and stylish stop on your Arizona national park road trip itinerary, we highly recommend Aiden by Best Western @ Flagstaff. This family-friendly hotel offers sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks and the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine forest. We loved the local touches—from vibrant murals and curated art in the lobby to cozy common areas perfect for games and downtime between hikes.
The outdoor pool and hot tub will also be a hit for your kids after long days spent exploring together! Plus, the green lawn with lawn games makes it easy for kids to burn off energy. Parents will also appreciate the convenience of the on-site breakfast cafe and coffee bar, offering a great selection of breakfast items to start the day. Of course, you can also grab evening drinks at the lobby bar.
With its central location—just 75 minutes from the Grand Canyon and close to downtown Flagstaff—it’s the perfect home base to kick off your Arizona family adventures!
Day 1: Walnut Canyon National Monument + Lowell Observatory
Day one of our road trip with kids starts at Walnut Canyon National Monument, just a short drive from downtown Flagstaff and the hotel. This incredible site offers a kid-friendly loop trail with cliff dwellings and sweeping canyon views. It’s undoubtedly an educational and adventurous start to the trip!
After your hike, grab lunch at the Express Burritos food truck, a local favorite known for flavorful, made-to-order meals. This might just be the best burrito I’ve ever had! While the location is pretty industrial, the flavors will certainly make up for its strange location! Plan to eat in the car or take the food to eat at a local park. There is no seating near the food truck.
In the afternoon, head to Lowell Observatory, one of our favorite stops of the entire trip. We learned all about Pluto (discovered right here in Flagstaff!), and my daughter was thrilled to see the sun through a special solar telescope—truly one of the most memorable things to do in Arizona with kids!
Wrap up your day with an unforgettable dinner at Josephine’s Modern American Bistro. We loved this spot! Here, the cozy atmosphere and upscale comfort food offer the perfect combo to end a fun-filled day in Flagstaff. I recommend making a reservation to ensure you get a table.
Day 2: Grand Cayon National Park with Kids
Day two of this Arizona national park road trip itinerary is all about soaking in the awe of the Grand Canyon National Park with kids!
After an early departure from Flagstaff (around 7 AM), head to the South Rim—the only rim open in spring—and kick off your Grand Canyon family vacation with stunning views at Desert View Watchtower and Navajo Point. These overlooks are perfect for first glimpses and family photos. From here, you can stop at additional trailheads and lookouts that pique your interest.
Stop by the Grand Canyon Visitor Center or the small visitor center at the Desert View Watchtower to pick up Junior Ranger booklets and maps. Kids will love completing the Junior Ranger program and earning their badge! It’s an excellent way for them to stay entertained and learn about the park.
Yavapai Geology Museum
Midday, head to the Yavapai Geology Museum for the ranger talk. There is also a small indoor exhibit and gift shop here. During the talk, kids can learn how the canyon was formed or another topic. My daughter loved meeting the ranger and adding notes from the discussion to her Junior Ranger booklet.
Lunch
Grab sandwiches from Desert View Market and Deli or the GC Market and Deli for a quick lunch. You can either eat at the provided tables or in the car on your way to the next stop. Both offer hot and cold lunch options, as well as drinks and snacks. Stop by the United States Post Office INSIDE the park for a unique souvenir and send a postcard!
Hike Bright Angel Trail
In the afternoon, explore the canyon more actively with a trek down part of the Bright Angel Trail. You won’t be able to do the full trial, but it’s an excellent option for introducing kids to the scale and wonder of the Grand Canyon. Make it an out-and-back trail by turning around whenever you’re ready. The trail is pretty wide and flat, considering, but you should expect a lot of switchbacks and no guardrails.
Arizona Family Vacation Day 3: Petrified Forest National Park with Kids (Flagstaff to Sedona)
On day three of this Arizona family vacation, take a scenic detour to Petrified Forest National Park—well worth the extra drive. Leave Flagstaff early and head northeast through Winslow, stopping at the Painted Desert Visitor Center at the park’s north entrance before driving through the colorful landscapes and fossilized wood that make this park so unique.
After exploring the park, grab a quick bite at the nostalgic Root Beer Stand in Winslow (if it’s open, sadly it wasn’t for us). After lunch, continue south on Highway 87 through the stunning Coconino National Forest, a scenic route that adds just 20–30 minutes but offers unforgettable views on your way to Sedona.
Petrified Forest National Park with Kids
Petrified Forest National Park is a must-stop on your Arizona national park road trip itinerary, offering unique hikes, otherworldly scenery, and family-friendly adventure.
Enter through the North Entrance and stop at the Painted Desert Visitor Center to grab a Junior Ranger packet. It’s a fun way for kids to learn how ancient trees turned to stone and discover the park’s Triassic fossil history. Not to mention, keep them entertained along the driving route!
As you drive south through the park, take time to explore scenic overlooks and short trails that bring the Painted Desert and petrified logs to life. One of the best stops is the Blue Mesa Trail, a stunning 1-mile loop through blue-striped badlands and fossilized wood that feels like another planet. The trail is paved, making it a great option with kids! We were totally blown away by the hike and unique coloring.
Crystal Forest is another great hike with kids! In fact, this trail provides one of the most impressive chances to see the park’s striking petrified wood up close. There are several scattered along and very close to the trail!
Wrap up your visit at the South Visitor Center, where Junior Rangers can turn in their booklets for a badge and browse the small café and gift shop. After your park visit, it’s time to head to Sedona!
Arizona Family Vacation Days 4 + 5: Sedona with Kids
The next few days of this Arizona family vacation are all about exploring the red rocks of Sedona! With its dramatic red cliffs, family-friendly hiking trails, and artsy small-town charm, Sedona is a dreamy destination for all ages. Based on our experience, here’s how to spend two days in Sedona with your family!
Once you get settled in Sedona, have dinner at Gerardo’s Pizzeria. It’s some of the best wood-fired pizza I’ve ever had! Even better, it’s within walking distance of the hotel. It was hands-down the best meal we had in Sedona!
Where to Stay in Sedona with Kids
For families on an Arizona family vacation, finding a comfortable and scenic home base in Sedona is key—and our stay at Aiden by Best Western Sedona (right on Highway 89A) was nothing short of unforgettable. We highly recommend making it your home base in Sedona, too!
With panoramic views of Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot Rock, and Chimney Rock, this centrally located hotel is just minutes from Sedona’s top trails and the Sedona Shuttle. The hotel’s local art, murals, and cozy social spaces give it real Sedona character. Book a room on the third floor and you may luck into a balcony facing the red rocks (like we did!).
Kids will love the seasonal heated pool with red rock views, while parents can unwind in the meditation room with massage chairs. Of course, everyone will enjoy the outdoor fire pit under the stars. Finally, the complimentary continental breakfast makes fueling up in the mornings easy and delicious.
The Sedona Shuttle
Getting around Sedona is easy thanks to the Sedona Shuttle, which operates Thursday–Sunday year-round. It provides free transportation from designated Park & Ride lots to some of the area’s most popular trailheads. During peak times, like spring break, trailhead parking can be limited or closed entirely, so the shuttle is a great alternative. Check the trail website for parking lot closures.
If you’re visiting on a weekday or need daily service, the Verde Shuttle runs 7 days a week and connects key locations around town. Before heading out, check the shuttle website for updated trailhead access and use the trip planner to find your closest Park & Ride stop. It’s stress-free and helps preserve the beauty of Sedona’s red rock landscapes.
Day 4: Cathedral Rock Trail + Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village
One of the most iconic things to do with kids in Sedona, Arizona, is to hike the Cathedral Rock Trail. A short but very steep adventure, it’s worth the significant payoff at the top! This 1.2-mile round-trip hike climbs 740 feet and includes a few tricky spots that may require hands-on scrambling. Keep kids close; there are some drop-offs and cliffs along the way. Adventurous kids (like mine!) will adore this unique trail in Sedona.
Keep in mind, Cathedral Rock Trail is more of a climb than a stroll. With a little teamwork (and encouragement from fellow hikers!), the views from the top are absolutely unforgettable. It’s worth noting that many people need to turn around before they can reach the top. There is one particularly tricky spot that requires great dexterity, height, or help to get the footing. I almost didn’t finish the hike because of this spot. I let my husband and daughter go ahead without me. Eventually, I needed help from two other hikers to get through this tough spot. While I made it, I did see many turn around at this spot, too. Remember, there is no shame in needing to turn around!
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the Hilltop Deli for lunch. This is a great spot to refuel and enjoy a delicious sandwich. Plus, it’s within walking distance of the hotel.
Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village + Dinner
In the afternoon, head to Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. This magical shopping and cultural experience is nestled under towering sycamores and just a quick drive or shuttle ride from the hotel. The area is modeled after a traditional Mexican village and is home to over 50 specialty shops, working artists, galleries, and restaurants. Fountains and beautiful decor make it a relaxing way to wind down the day and soak in Sedona’s artistic soul.
End your day with dinner at Javelina Cantina.
Day 5: Devil’s Bridge, Pool Time, and Wineries
One of the most exciting things to do in Arizona with kids is hiking to Devil’s Bridge. It’s the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area! We started at the Mescal Trailhead, which winds through stunning red rock and desert terrain. After a scenic 4.2-mile round-trip hike—including a fun climb up to the arch—you’re rewarded with sweeping views and the thrill of walking across the arch bridge itself.
Be prepared to wait your turn to walk on the arch bridge and get your photo. We started our hike by 7:30 am and still needed to wait nearly an hour for our turn during spring break. If you’re not interested in the iconic photo on the arch bridge, I think there are better hikes to choose from.
After your morning adventure, cool off and relax with some well-earned pool time back at the hotel. There is no rush into the rest of the day, so this is a great time to relax, take a break, and cool off.
Later, head out to Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery and Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery—both family-friendly and located just minutes apart. With yard games, shaded patios, and wine tastings for the adults, it’s a perfect, low-key way to wrap up your Arizona family vacation in Sedona.
End your final day in Sedona with dinner at The Hudson and ice cream at Rocky RD Ice Cream Co.
Arizona Family Vacation Days 6 – 8: Saguaro National Park with Kids (Sedona to Casa Grande)
Wrap up your Arizona family vacation with a visit to Saguaro National Park. This park is home to the iconic giant cacti that define the Southwest. From Sedona, make your way south toward Casa Grande, your base for exploring the park’s two sections—East and West of Tucson.
As you make your way from Sedona to Casa Grande, consider a stop in Phoenix for lunch or a family-friendly attraction like the Arizona Science Center or Desert Botanical Garden. We opted for a leisurely lunch with family, but there’s plenty to explore if you have the time and the desire.
Day 6: Sedona to Casa Grande + Montezuma Castle National Monument
Kick off the final stretch of your Arizona road trip with kids by heading south from Sedona to Casa Grande. Along the way, make a worthwhile stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument, a local gem that brings ancient history to life.
This well-preserved, 5-story cliff dwelling is tucked into a limestone wall and once housed the Sinagua people over 600 years ago. Kids will love walking the short 1/3-mile loop trail beneath the towering structure, winding through a sycamore grove along spring-fed Beaver Creek.
If you have time, don’t miss nearby Montezuma Well, where another easy loop reveals a rare desert oasis and more glimpses into early life in this region.
From there, continue on to Casa Grande, your base for exploring Saguaro National Park and soaking up the last leg of your Arizona family adventure. Once you’re settled at the hotel, end your day with dinner at Eva’s Fine Mexican Foods.
Where to Stay in Casa Grande with Kids
Perfectly positioned between Phoenix and Tucson, the Best Western Plus Casa Grande Inn & Suites makes a great home base for families wrapping up their Arizona family vacation using this itinerary. Located just off I-10, you’re about an hour from Saguaro National Park and the Phoenix airport, making it ideal for your final two nights.
Families will appreciate the complimentary daily hot breakfast (hello, hotel waffles!!), spacious guest rooms, and family-friendly amenities like in-room refrigerators. The outdoor pool is refreshing during warmer months, but may be too cool during spring break (it’s not heated). Instead, the hot tub is a cozy option for cooler spring break afternoons.
Easy highway access and nearby dining options make it a convenient, comfortable spot to relax before heading home.
Day 7: Saguaro National Park with Kids
Wrap up your Arizona road trip with an unforgettable day at Saguaro National Park—home to Arizona’s towering, iconic cacti. Start your adventure at the East Entrance (about 90 minutes from the hotel).
Stop at the visitor center to pick up a Junior Ranger packet, then drive out to the Ridge View Trail. This 2.2-mile round-trip hike offers secluded desert scenery, gentle elevation, and a breathtaking view that’s pure Sonoran magic. I bet it would be even better at sunset!
After your hike, enjoy a quick lunch on the go and return to the East Entrance to drive the Cactus Forest Scenic Loop. This paved drive offers beautiful saguaro views and short pull-off stops perfect for young explorers. Along the route, have kids work on their Junior Ranger packet. They can turn it in when you reach the West Entrance.
Next, head across town to the West Entrance. This side of the park is where you’ll find the densest cactus forests, a great visitor center, and the Signal Hill Petroglyphs. Before heading into the park, let kids turn in their packets and earn their Junior Ranger badges. Then, take the Bajada Loop Drive to reach the trailhead for the Signal Hill Petroglyphs. Feel free to stop along the way! Once you reach Signal Hill, the petroglyphs are just a short walk from the picnic area. This area features over 200 ancient rock carvings—some over 1,500 years old—making it a fascinating and kid-friendly final stop. After this stop, it’s time to head back to the hotel (about a 60-minute drive).
End your final day in Arizona with dinner at Los Plebes Taqueria. This open-air taqueria is an excellent spot to munch on delicious food and share favorite memories from the trip.
Day 8: Time to Head Home
This final day is all about packing up and heading home! The Phoenix airport is about an hour from the hotel. Keep in mind this is a popular commute, so plan accordingly during rush hour.
Have Fun on Your Arizona Family Vacation with Kids!
An Arizona family spring break vacation offers so much excitement and adventure for all ages. From standing beneath massive saguaro cacti to hiking across red rock trails and exploring ancient cliff dwellings, this Arizona road trip with kids is packed with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re watching the sunset in Saguaro National Park, relaxing by the pool in Sedona, or marveling at the Grand Canyon with kids, there’s no shortage of things to do in Arizona. To help you plan your own family trip, this national park trip in Arizona features our favorite stops for outdoor adventure, cultural history, and scenic beauty. I hope it helps you enjoy your own fantastic spring break in Arizona with kids!
Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.