Arizona Car Rental Deals

Tips for the Region

Arizona's most iconic landmark has to be the Grand Canyon, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. To take in its breathtaking size, the 2 billion year old red rock really must be experienced in the flesh. Just to the south of the Grand Canyon Route 66 runs from east to west of Arizona, and many of Arizona's best natural sights are only a short distance from this famous highway. We highly recommend taking the 89A off Route 66 from Flagstaff to Sedona, it is one of the most scenic drives in America taking you through Sedona's incredible rock formations.

• Flagstaff to Sedona via N State Rt 89A: 29 miles, about one hour

One unique aspect to the state is its First Nations population. Arizona is home to 22 Native American tribes from independent or shared reservations that have their own laws that can vary from the surrounding state. Tribal laws in different communities should be viewed in the same manner as the Arizona state laws. We recommend contacting individual tribes when planning a trip as the different communities have different rules that apply to visitors.

Important Cities

Phoenix

Smack bang in the 'Valley of the Sun' this desert metropolis is Arizona's capital and largest city. The city is culturally rich with a host of incredible museums. We highly recommend the Heard Museum for its in-depth displays on the arts and culture of American Indian tribes. The Boarding School Experience is a tragic and moving museum focusing on American Indian children that were separated from their families by a controversial federal policy. We also recommend getting an overview of the desert's spectacular flora in the Desert Botanical Garden, in flowering season it is dazzling!

Flagstaff

Just south of the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff offers a gateway to the Grand Canyon National Park, hikes through majestic ponderosa pine forests and even skiing. The infamous Route 66 runs east to west through the city, while Interstate 17 and Interstate 40 also connect it to the north and south. The city has become a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts due to its proximity to so many areas of natural beauty including Walnut Canyon National Monument, Barringer Crater and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

Sedona

Sedona is surrounded by jaw dropping rock formations, with Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Soldier's Pass being some of the most remarkable red sandstone structures. The red rocks surround the city and at sunset seem to glow in brilliant reds and oranges. With most tourists visiting for the red rock vistas, Sedona also has an annual 8-day International Film Festival that brings in the crowds along with the renowned Sedona Bluegrass Festival.

Climate, Cuisine & Travel with Children

Climate

Arizona has a dry climate with very little rainfall, though this varies dramatically in the north where mountains bring lower temperatures and snowfall. On longer road trips in Arizona is important to take plenty of water with you and to keep a check on your fuel levels, often you can be traveling long distances in extremely high temperatures with infrequent gas stations.

Cuisine

Expect the best of southwestern cuisine with Mexican fusion dishes and delicious street food. While the Spanish inspired stews, soups and tortillas are healthy and delicious, we also highly recommend turning a blind eye to calorie intake and trying the chimichangas (basically a deep fried burrito) and the Sonoran hot dog.

Traveling with Children

Arizona's outdoor pursuits are a thrill for children with rocks to clamber over and stunning scenery to explore. There are many working ranches in the region that prove a popular with the kids, many are open to the public and offer activities like horseback riding. You could also try out some white water rafting on the Colorado River, an exciting way to get some of the best views of the Grand Canyon.