I Live in Phoenix, Arizona, Here’s the One Day Tour I’d Book to Get to Know My State

I've lived in the Grand Canyon State for over 15 years, and I am still finding places to discover and ways to revisit places I've already been. One of the best ways to get to know my state is through a tour, and I found one that will take you through some of the state's most stunning landscapes and revered natural attractions. From Phoenix to Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon, this all-day Arizona tour is ripe with adventure and scenery!

Starting in Phoenix, the Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour through Viator is an all-day excursion lasting nearly 13 hours. Free pick-up and drop-off from select Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa hotels are included, and you'll be given an approximate pick-up time before the tour. Once you and all the other passengers are picked up in the Phoenix area, it's time to head north with your driver and guide, and commentary along the way.

The first stop on this tour is the South Rim at Grand Canyon National Park, and don't worry — National Park fees are covered in the cost of this tour. You'll have three hours to check out this natural wonder that sees nearly 5 million visitors annually.

I love the South Rim as the views are spectacular, and there are several historic buildings, including El Tovar. If time allows, grab a bite to eat in its dining room, where the food is delicious and the ambiance is almost as enchanting as the Grand Canyon itself.

Another place to stop at the South Rim is Mary Colter's Hopi House, a stone masonry structure modeled after a traditional Hopi House. Mary Colter was an architect in a very male-dominated field at the time and was commissioned to design the structure by the Fred Harvey Company in 1904.

The South Rim's Desert View Drive is another option, with several overlooks to take in the views and snap some pics. No matter what part of the Grand Canyon's South Rim you explore, prepare to be in awe!

After your epic Grand Canyon excursion, it's time to head back south with a stop in Sedona. Known for its iconic red rocks, vortexes, and spiritual culture, it's one of the most alluring parts of Arizona. As someone who has taken several tours in Sedona, I learn a lot from the guides, and I am sure you will too on this tour.

This stop is under 30 minutes, so take it all in while you're here. There's something so magical about Sedona, and I know you will want to return!

The final leg of this journey will whisk you away on a scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon along the incredibly scenic 89A. This is one of my favorite scenic drives in Arizona, and it's only about 14 miles long. The tree-lined road winds past Oak Creek through the canyon, and you'll pass by popular spots like Slide Rock State Park and Indian Gardens Cafe & Market along the way. While you won't be able to get out of the vehicle for this part of the trip, there's so much to see from the windows you'll be oohing and ahhing the entire way.

I think taking a tour is one of the best ways to explore a place, whether you've been there before or you're visiting for the first time. The Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour will surely enlighten your senses as you explore some of the most gorgeous places in the state while learning along the way.