Kick-start your food & wine adventure through Arizona in Tucson, the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the United States. Staying at Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, a charming desert retreat with adobe-style architecture, breathtaking mountain views, and a focus on locally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine.
After check-in, drop your bags, take a moment to soak it all in and drive half an hour south through Tucson to the striking Mission San Xavier del Bac. Explore this historic Spanish mission known for its white facade and intricate interior artwork. Experience the rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty of this centuries-old mission.
Return hungry for some authentic local eats. Satisfy your cravings at BOCA Tacos, a popular local spot known for its creative and flavourful taco combinations. From traditional options to exotic fillings, this taqueria offers a delightful culinary adventure. Another option is the modern Mexican cuisine at Tito & Pep, where traditional flavours are reimagined with a contemporary twist.
Awake early to catch the magnificent desert sunrise and admire Tucson’s transformation as night becomes day. After breakfast, if you’re still dreaming about last night’s straight fire tacos, embark on a guided tour to taste the flavours of Tucson, visiting local eateries, food markets, and hidden culinary gems while learning about the city’s vibrant food culture. A must-try dish in traditional Mexican food culture is the tamale – nixtamalized corn flour is turned into masa dough, stuffed with delicious fillings, and steamed inside a corn husk. Give it a taste – trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
After your tour, continue to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a unique fusion of a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum. Explore the verdant stunning desert landscape and encounter diverse wildlife while learning about the Sonoran Desert’s ecosystem.
Return and enjoy your last evening at the ranch.
Say goodbye to Tucson as you drive approximately two and a half hours north to the city of Phoenix and your luxury accommodation at the magnificent JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, an expansive desert oasis featuring upscale accommodations, world-class amenities, and a variety of dining options. Indulge in unforgettable culinary experiences and relax at the resort’s stunning mirage-like pools, serving up a range of poolside bites, fresh fare, and tropical cocktails.
After settling in, head to the city’s acclaimed Desert Botanical Garden. Stroll through the desert oasis of the Desert Botanical Garden, home to a vast collection of desert plants from around the world. Learn about the unique adaptations of desert flora and enjoy the tranquillity of the gardens.
Finish your perfect Phoenix day with an exquisite farm-to-table dining experience at FnB Restaurant, renowned for its seasonal menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy innovative dishes that celebrate the flavours of the Southwest.
After a decent sleep-in, discover the fascinating world of musical instruments from around the globe at the Musical Instrument Museum. Explore interactive exhibits, listen to music from different cultures, and learn about the history of various instruments.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure – perhaps with a cocktail in hand poolside – before setting sail on the Desert Belle Sunset Cruise. Gliding through the picturesque Saguaro Lake during the breathtakingly golden twilight hours, take in the stunning desert scenery while savouring delicious appetizers and enjoying live music.
Sticking to the greater Phoenix area, experience the elegance and luxury of The Phoenician, offering world-class dining options, a championship golf course, and a variety of recreational activities. Immerse yourself in the resort’s lush surroundings and enjoy the impeccable service.
Drop your bags and head out to visit Western Spirit, Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Situated on the historic grounds of the Loloma Transit Station, the museum is bursting with the rich art, culture and history spanning across the American West, Mexico and West Canada.
After your culture hit, enjoy the early evening hours with a wander through the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Scottsdale, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and dining options. Explore the local shops including Bischoff’s Shades of the West, and sample delicious cuisine at The Mission. Experience the area’s lively nightlife including its cocktail movement where you’ll find gorgeous and thoughtfully created non-alcohol cocktails at trendy bars and restaurants such as Kazimeirz Wine & Whiskey Bar.
After a wonderful breakfast in your luxurious hotel, it’s time for a drink. Spend the day exploring the Scottsdale Wine Trail, exploring local wineries and tasting rooms. Sample a variety of wines and learn about the region’s winemaking history.
Be sure to purchase the Scottsdale Wine Trail official passport (US$5) and enjoy discounted sips at participating wineries and a unique keepsake immortalising your time spent sampling Phoenix’s best drops.
Walk (or stumble!) back to The Phoenician and enjoy one final evening in Scottsdale. If you’re a foodie at heart, immerse yourself in flavor with Arizona Food Tours.
An hour’s drive north and you’re out of the big smoke and into the endless wilderness. Stay at Castle Hot Springs, a historic and award-winning luxurious retreat nestled in a remote desert setting. Enjoy the therapeutic hot springs, indulge in farm-to-table cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients at restaurant Harvest, and relax in the tranquil surroundings of the Sonoran Desert.
A sunny two-hour drive north and you’re in historic Prescott, one-time state capital now famous for it’s ‘wild west’ history – the town was once home to famous gunfighter Doc Holliday and now offers an abundance of bars and live music venues. Stay at TERRA Farm + Manor, a unique farm-stay experience where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy farm-fresh cuisine. Explore the working farm, participate in hands-on cooking activities, and savour delicious meals made with ingredients straight from the land.
After an hour’s drive northeast, check in to L’Auberge de Sedona, a luxurious resort nestled along the banks of Oak Creek. Relax in elegant accommodations and rejuvenate at the spa overlooking the red rocks.
If you’ve got time, embark on a scenic ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad, a historic train that winds through the picturesque Verde Valley. Marvel at the stunning views of towering rugged cliffs, lush landscapes, and the meandering Verde River.
Return for dinner at onsite fine dining establishment Cress on Oak Creek, offering sumptuous classic European plates surrounded by Sedona’s natural beauty.
After a day at leisure, immerse yourself in the culinary bounty of the Sonoran Desert at Che Ah Chi, a local eatery that showcases the region’s authentic flavours. Sample dishes that integrate ingredients like prickly pear, cholla buds, and mesquite, offering a unique and delicious taste of the desert. Discover the wineries of the Verde Valley and sample local vintages amidst stunning landscapes. Enjoy the unique combination of exquisite wines and the captivating beauty of Sedona.
Travel just forty-five minutes north to Flagstaff and your accommodation at the boutique Little America Hotel, a charming retreat nestled in the ponderosa pine forest of Flagstaff. Experience comfort and relaxation in a picturesque mountain setting. Tonight, enjoy a delightful meal at Atria Restaurant in Flagstaff, known for its farm-to-table cuisine, creative dishes, and cosy ambience.
Finish your Arizona road trip with a visit to the iconic Grand Canyon. There’s no more sensational stay than at Under Canvas Grand Canyon, offering luxurious glamping accommodations with stunning views of the star-studded night skies. Experience the grandeur of the canyon with a thrilling helicopter tour, providing breathtaking aerial views of one of the world’s natural wonders.
Say goodbye to the Grand Canyon as you continue the next leg of your journey, filled with wonder and wanderlust for the great state of Arizona.