If you’re craving a girls’ getaway that mixes adventure, good food, and just enough downtime to actually relax—this Phoenix + Sedona itinerary is exactly that.
We planned a long weekend with horseback riding, kayaking (with wild horses!), shopping in Old Town Scottsdale, and a dreamy overnight in Sedona. Here’s how we’re doing it—plus where we’re staying and how we’re keeping it flexible.
Trip Overview
- 3 nights in Phoenix/Tempe/Scottsdale area
- 1 night in Sedona
- Mix of planned activities + go-with-the-flow meals
Where We’re Staying
We wanted a hotel that felt a little elevated but still practical (and bonus points for using travel credits or points).
Here are the top contenders:
- Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU
This one is super appealing because of the free breakfast perk (huge win for early activity mornings) plus using a Citi $300 credit. - Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix (Kimpton option)
Great if you want something a little trendier and more boutique-feeling. - The Scottsdale Resort & Spa Curio Collection by Hilton (Autograph/“Darrow” style resort vibe)
More of a relaxed resort feel—perfect if you want pool time built in.
All three options would work depending on what kind of vibe you want:
- Convenience + perks → Omni
- Stylish + central → Kimpton
- Resort + unwind → Scottsdale resort
We’re leaning toward using Marriott or Hyatt points for the Sedona stay Courtyard by Marriott Sedona or Hyatt.
Day 1: Arrival + Easy Night
We’re flying in later in the evening (landing around 7–8 PM), so this is intentionally low-key.
Plan:
- Check into hotel
- Freshen up
- Grab dinner nearby (nothing overplanned)
I always like to have one restaurant idea saved, but otherwise keep it flexible based on how tired we are.
Day 2: Horseback Riding + Old Town Scottsdale
This is our first full day, and we’re starting it off strong.
Morning: Horseback riding
We’re aiming for a morning ride before it gets too hot.
Options usually include:
- 1-hour ride (more casual)
- 1.5-hour ride (sweet spot)
- 3-hour ride (better for experienced riders)
We’ll probably choose something in the middle—long enough to enjoy, but not exhausting.
Tip: Book early morning slots—they fill up fast and the temps are much better.
Midday Reset
After riding:
- Head back to the hotel
- Shower + change (this is key—this is not a one-outfit day kind of trip)
Afternoon: Old Town Scottsdale
Head over to
Old Town Scottsdale
Think:
- Boutiques
- Cute coffee spots
- Southwest-style shops
For lunch, we’ll either:
- Pop into something nearby (most likely)
- Or check out a wine bar with small plates if it fits the location
This is one of those “wander and see what looks good” moments.
Day 3: Kayaking + Desert Exploring
Morning: Kayaking with Wild Horses KayaK
This is one of the coolest things on the itinerary.
We’re planning a guided kayaking trip on the Salt River, which runs about 3.5 hours—and yes, there’s a chance to see wild horses 🐎
It’s active, a little adventurous, and very Arizona.
Afternoon Options (Choose Your Own Adventure)
Depending on energy levels, we’ll pick one:
- Desert Botanical Garden – pretty + low effort walking
- Hole-in-the-Rock – quick hike with a great view
- Museums or just relaxing back at the hotel
Dinner
We’ll plan one nicer dinner this night, but still keep backup options in case we’re tired from kayaking.
Day 4: Sedona Day Trip + Overnight
We’re driving up to
Sedona
(about 2 hours from Phoenix)
Morning: Early Hike
Start with a hike before the crowds and heat.
Afternoon: Explore + Eat
- Browse shops
- Casual lunch somewhere scenic
- Take in all the red rock views
Evening: Sunset Hike
Another hike in the evening (this is when Sedona really shows off)
Then:
- Dinner in town
- Stay overnight
Found this blog 1 day Sedona itinerary
Day 5: Head Home
- Easy morning
- Drive back to Phoenix
- Fly out
Why This Itinerary Works
This is my favorite kind of trip because it’s:
- Active but not exhausting
- Planned but not rigid
- A mix of adventure + downtime
Also—real talk—having time to shower and change between activities makes the whole trip feel way more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a girls’ weekend, don’t overpack your schedule. Pick a few key experiences (for us: horseback riding, kayaking, Sedona) and let everything else fall into place.
That’s usually when the best moments happen anyway.
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