Help with Arizona itinerary for trip with mom!
 

My brother and I are planning to take our mom to Arizona around Thanksgiving. She's always wanted to see the Grand Canyon. I have a tentative intinerary and would appreciate any suggestions.

Day 1 - Fly into Phoenix in the morning (we should be able to arrive early). Drive to Sedona. Stay for 2 nights. Any idea whether the Hyatt Pinon is a good place?

Day 3 - Drive to the Grand Canyon. Stay overnight.

Day 4 - Need HELP here. Should we just drive back to Phoenix or stay somewhere else for the night to avoid a 5-6 drive back to Phoenix? Where should we go?

Day 5 - Phoenix. Stay overnight or fly out that night? Is there anything worth seeing in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area?

Thanks for your help!

I'd stay a second night at the Grand Canyon. We spent Thanksgiving at the Canyon once and it was very snowy. Be aware that you're in high altitude until you get back down to Sedona. As for things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale--PLENTY. However, if you only have time to do one thing, make it the Heard Museum--unless you go to the Northern Arizona Museum outside of Flagstaff. Don't know where you're coming from, but either of these give you a good overview of the native population and beatuiful crafts.

Vera

Quick reply - why not do the drive to the GC first and then down to Sedona? It's about 250 miles from Phoenix to GC. I just think that it would make for an easier trip. Also, you can enjoy the warmer weather at the end.

I agree with Vera...why not spend a second night at the Grand Canyon? We were there during Thanksgiving week a few years ago and loved it. Much quieter and much more peaceful than in the summer.

Just came back from Sedona and stayed at the Hyatt. We had a great one bedroom with full kitchen. Great views of the rocks.
It's a nice place and by November, more of the shops across the way should be open. They are still under construction so keep that in mind.
(Also it's a time share although I felt no pressure to go to the 'presentation')
The one thing that would concern me is if you're mom has trouble with stairs. For the room we had and depending on where we parked, we had to climb up or walk down a flight of stairs.
There is one elevator (in the lobby) so if you reserve a room at the Hyatt maybe you could request a room near the elevator.