10 Weekend Trips That Feel Like a Month-Long Journey

4. Sedona, Arizona — Red-rock hikes and spa recovery

Sedona pairs kinetic outdoor time with restorative evenings in a compact footprint. Start with a sunrise hike at Cathedral Rock, then spend midday on a jeep tour that reaches backcountry viewpoints. After active hours, book a spa treatment or watch sunset colors from a rooftop restaurant. The contrast between physical exposure to the landscape and intentional low-activity recovery makes the weekend feel expansive. Logistics: from Phoenix it’s about a 2-hour drive; Flagstaff is closer at about 45 minutes. Budgets (per person, As of November 2025): budget $120–$220; mid-range $220–$420; splurge $420+. Best season: spring and fall for mild temps; summer mornings work if you start early. Accessibility & family note: many trailheads have short, family-friendly walks; some routes are strenuous. Quick itinerary: Friday evening — arrive and dinner; Saturday — sunrise hike, jeep tour, afternoon spa; Sunday — slow morning and gallery stroll before returning.