Phoenix Day Trip to Grand Canyon

If you are visiting Arizona and want to witness one of the seven wonders of the world, then a Phoenix day trip to the Grand Canyon is absolutely doable. We hope our travel guide will help you on your journey.  We’ll cover drive times, mileage, route options, overnight stays and must see stops along the way.

Phoenix Day Trip to Grand Canyon

How Far is the Grand Canyon from Phoenix?

The Grand Canyon National Park is located about 230 miles from the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. By car, it takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours each way.  If you are okay with driving most of the day, then you will love this trip. If you prefer not to drive, see our recommendations for Arizona guided tours from Phoenix or take a shuttle from Flagstaff.

Best Route for a Day Trip

The fastest route is to take Interstate 17 North from Phoenix to Flagstaff. Once in town, you can choose to take either of the following routes:

South Rim Main Entrance

  • State Route 180, turn north on State Route 64.
  • Turn westbound on Interstate 40 to Williams, Arizona.  Then head north on State Route 64.

East Entrance

  • Longer distance at approximately 250 miles
  • Continue to on I17 to I40 east then exit on SR 89 north, turn on SR 64.

Why do people visit the Grand Canyon? There is so much to do there.

Why the South Rim is Best for a Day Trip

The South Rim is open year-round and has these amenities.

  • Restrooms
  • Many scenic viewpoints
  • Easy access to trails
  • Access to shuttle services
  • Restaurants and gift shops

The North Rim is only open May through October.

  • Takes longer to get there and is not recommended for a day trip
  • Several trails around the area
  • Fewer restaurants
  • Less developed

Time Saving Ideas

Depending on when you leave Phoenix, you may not a lot of time to enjoy the Grand Canyon.  Here are some ideas to make your trip more fun.

Day Trip Stops from Phoenix

Sedona

Sedona is located just 2 hours from Phoenix. Although Sedona makes a great stop on your way to the Grand Canyon, but you might want to stay longer.  It is famous for the red rock formations. It is simply beautiful there.  While passing through, check out Uptown Sedona for shopping, galleries and restaurants. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross or go on a short hike or go for a scenic drive.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff, Arizona is a mountain town famous for their ponderosa pines.  It has cooler weather in the summer and gets snowstorms in the winter.  Check out Route 66, Heritage Square in the downtown area for shopping and restaurants.  Or visit Lowell Observatory to see the place where Pluto was discovered.

Williams

Williams has a small-town feel.  It is also located on the famous Route 66.  Here you will find Bearizona, the Deer Farm and the Grand Canyon Railway. You may want to check out the quaint diners and shops along the main drag.

Travel Tips for your Phoenix Day Trip

What to expect

The Grand Canyon National Park is a popular tourist destination.  During peak seasons, people are everywhere.  Leaving Phoenix early is the best bet to avoid longs lines at the entry station.  Try to get there before peak times, usually before 9am and after 4pm. Keep an eye on the weather report.  Winter weather can cause road closures.

See other itineraries for Sedona, Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon.

Can you do the Grand Canyon in One Day from Phoenix?

Absolutely yes, but it will be a long day. The drive alone will take more than 8 hours round trip, then expect to stay a few hours to see the iconic landmark. Like we said before, if you don’t mind the long drive, then this adventure is for you!