Start early and take the 3 1/2-hour trek into Northern Arizona to visit one of the state's most famous attractions, the Grand Canyon. Arizona has been given the nickname "the Grand Canyon State", so this is an excursion that should not be missed. According to the National Park Service, once you are at the Grand Canyon you learn more about the canyon at the visitor center, take a guided tour with a park ranger or go on a hike in the surrounding National Park.
Beat the extreme desert heat of the region by taking a drive on the historic Apache Trail loop for both a scenic and historically fascinating trip. According to RoadTrip America, The Apache Trail was a supply route for the construction of Theodore Roosevelt Dam and the drive boasts views of Canyon Lake, Four Peaks Wilderness and Fish Creek Canyon. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery at one of the pullouts along the trail.
Get a taste of Mexico without heading south of the border by visiting the town of Guadalupe. Guadalupe is a Native American and Hispanic community only a short drive outside Phoenix. According to the town website, Guadalupe was founded by the Yaqui Indians at the turn of the century and named after the Patron Saint of Mexico. The cultural heritage is very strong in this small community, so you will have a great opportunity to sample authentic ethnic cuisine and local arts.
