Planning a Last-Minute Road Trip, Arizona Style

 
 
 

 

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Does this all-too-common scenario ring a bell? It’s mid-summer, and you haven’t had a chance to plan that summer vacation you’ve been dreaming about for months. Maybe work has been too busy for you to dedicate the time, or perhaps your family’s schedule has been up in the air with swim lessons and summer camp.

 

This is the situation for many Arizona residents – that is until they find a little free time and wonder how to plan a last-minute getaway, whether that would be for an entire week or a long weekend. Consider scrapping the idea of booking a flight and opt for a scenic road trip throughout Arizona.

 

This year, the Arizona Office of Tourism has made it easy to take a road trip around the state with pre-planned itinerary ideas based on different themes – water wonders, adventure, urban escapes, outdoor adventures and sightseeing excursions – on its summer-themed travel website,  www.summerinaz.com.

 

Below is a highlight of some of the itineraries available statewide that can help you drive to the vacation of your dreams, while also having some fun along the way:

 

1.  Explore History by Driving Route 66

 

For those feeling a little nostalgic this summer, head to northern Arizona and cruise Route 66, taking in the history and charm of this storied stretch of road. On your drive, stop at the Grand Depot Café for breakfast in Williams before boarding the Grand Canyon Railway and riding the rails to the Grand Canyon’s south rim. The next day, head to Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Park to watch bears, bison, wolves and more in their natural habitat during the morning. Later, enjoy lunch at Cruiser’s Route 66 Café for chicken fried steak and don’t miss the restaurant’s souvenir shop full of Route 66 kitsch.

 

2.  Road-Trip to a Water Destination

 

If cooling off in the water after a day in the car is your cup of tea, road-trip it to Lake Havasu, one of Arizona’s most visited lakes. Jet Ski, boat or paddleboat to take in the lake’s beautiful scenery. Or, take an early morning stroll and visit the London Bridge, a landmark imported from halfway around the world, and have breakfast at Black Bear Diner, which is known for its sweet cream pancakes and housemade bear claws. Maybe drive a party bus from Catalina Foothills.

 

3.  Visit Sedona for Adventure and Hospitality

 

Mix outdoor excursions with the cultural side of Sedona by driving toward the beautiful red rocks. Once you arrive, hike or bike on Forest Trails or stroll through Slide Rock State Park. Choose to have an early dinner at Elote Café, where a line typically forms at the door before the 5 p.m. opening time, and try the famed elote appetizer. End the evening by splurging with a stay at Sedona’s five-star Enchantment Resort.

Whatever your road trip adventure may be, remember that getting there is half the fun, and a great way to see Arizona’s natural beauty. Find your perfect itinerary at www.summerinaz.com

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