Expert: Phillis Rogoff - 5/30/2007

Question
Hi Phillis--We are flying into Scottsdale on the 21st of September.  The plan is to stay there for 4 nights and then to go to the Grand Canyon for 4 or 5 nights.  However, all the lodging in the Canyon is already booked.  That is really where I was hoping to stay.  Little did I realize that would be the case!  Anyway, I am thinking about backing out of the Grand Canyon part and maybe just visiting Sedona instead.  
Is it that big of deal that the lodging is booked or is it quite ok or even better to stay outside the park?  Do you have any recommendations?
Also, would Sedona be as good of pick?  
I am asking your opinion.  We have never been to Arizona however we do plan to come back as we won't get everything accomplished that we want to do.  
Thank you so very much!!!  ~gretchen mckinney

Answer
Any trip to Arizona is great with me :)  I actually live in NYC on the beach and spend several weeks in Arizona each year to escape the cold.  As for exciting things to do in Scottsdale, there is the Frank Lloyd Wright site, the Phoenix Art Museum, the art galleries, the Indian art work and the pueblos.  There is fun shopping as well. I do not know what you like, but hope these help.  You also could drive south an hour and a half or so and visit Tucson.  As for Sedona it is an incredible place.  The red rock is magnificent.  However, there is a lot of walking to truly experience the area.  There are some wonderful hotels and great B + B's, many very upscale. My husband just suggested that you could take a drive from Sedona and go to the Grand Canyon and stay overnight there.  It is another option of a National Park to see.
Have fun, and good luck.