We are heading to Phoenix on Friday for 8 days. Plan on heading to Sedona for a day, a hot air balloon trip for another day and lots of baseball. I am just wondering if I have overlooked anything. We are also going to Saguaro Nat'l Park near Tuscon. Any other suggestions?

Since you're already driving up north to Sedona, I'd recommend the Grand Canyon, especially if you haven't already been there. You could spend a night in Flagstaff, a really nice small city and go from there. Flagstaff is under an hour from Sedona and the canyon is about 1 1/2 hours from Flagstaff, as far as I can remember. Are you taking the ballon ride in Sedona? That sounds great!

I've been to Arizona several times in the past few years; I always stay in Phoenix for a few days because I have friends there, but I really don't like the city itself. Northern AZ is much more appealing to me in terms of climate and culture. Have fun on your trip. Hopefully you're from someplace cold so you can appreciate the great weather there!

Thanks for the suggestion, but we actually went to the Grand Canyon 5 years back. our balloon trip is through the desert area, i think north of the city. and yes, we will be enjoying the warm weather. in chicago we have been lucky to crack 50 lately.

Pio- the weather here has been great, lately(70-80 degrees). You are coming at a perfect time of year- not to hot yet!Although I mostly agree with Sandy about Northern Arizona(it's breathtaking), there are beautiful mountains right on the outskirts of the Phounix Valley. My favorite being the Superstition Mountains at the end of the east valley. If you enjoy hiking, it offers many trails and these mountains are just beautiful. Have a great time and remember to respect the land if you choose to enjoy the trails(Pack it in- pack it out). Peace and Love, Lanie Starr

Yeah, we plan on doing a heck of a lot of hiking all over the area. does anyone know if there are big temperature changes between the valley and mountain ranges?