Itinerary:
Day #1 Albuquerque, New Mexico - Tour Begins - Discover this city’s rich multiculturalism, natural beauty and profound history. Albuquerque has long been the intersection of past and future. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow passengers.
Day #2 Albuquerque - Today is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip…Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta. Join in this annual extravaganza of hot air ballooning and experience what has grown into one of the most photographed events in the world. You will see balloons launch in two waves, considered one of the most spectacular displays of sound and color in all of aviation.
Day #3 Albuquerque - Santa Fe - Upon arrival in Santa Fe, a local guide will fascinate you with the history of this wonderful city. During the tour you will visit the Loretto Chapel with its miraculous spiral staircase, St. Francis Cathedral, the historic Town Plaza and the ultra-modern state capitol building. The remainder of your day is at leisure.
Day #4 Santa Fe - Today is dedicated to exploring Santa Fe. There is much to see and plenty of great shopping. This evening’s special treat at the Santa Fe School of Cooking includes a wonderful demonstration followed by a delicious dinner served with local flare.
Day #5 Santa Fe - Apache County - Sedona, Arizona - Today you travel west into Sedona, “Red Rock Country,” with awesome scenery at every turn. En route, travel through the Painted Desert, a long expanse of badland hills and buttes that makes up a beautiful landscape of a rainbow of colors. Step back in time to a place where dinosaurs roamed over 225 million years ago at the Petrified Forest National Park. There will be plenty of stops inside the park to enjoy the unusual views. Enjoy an early dinner at a local restaurant before arriving in Sedona.
Day #6 Sedona - Clarkdale - Sedona - Discover the different tribes of the area, their histories and their modern day life during a morning chat with a local Native American. The remainder of the morning is at leisure to pursue individual interests. Later, take a roundtrip ride from Clarkdale to Perkinsville on the Verde Canyon Railroad – this is certain to be an unforgettable experience! Verde Canyon, accessible only by rail, resides between two national forests and follows the upper Verde River. Soak in enthralling views as the vintage locomotive rolls past towering, crimson cliffs near ancient Indian ruins, over old-fashioned trestles, and through a dark 680 foot man-made tunnel. This evening, fall under Sedona’s spell as you experience its sheer, exuberant beauty. Wind-shaped buttes and dramatic sandstone towers embody the rugged character of the West.
Day #7 Sedona - Grand Canyon - Sedona - Upon arrival at the train station in Williams, it’s “all aboard” the Grand Canyon Railway. This adventure relives the excitement of the Old West as it travels through northern Arizona countryside to the Grand Canyon. Strolling musicians and western characters recreate the nostalgia of train travel. Behold amazing views of the most famous canyon in the world when you arrive at the South Rim. Theodore Roosevelt is quoted as saying, “This is one of the great sights which every American, if he can travel at all, must see.” Dinner is included at a local restaurant.
Day #8 Sedona - Scottsdale - This morning you’ll hop aboard a trolley for a tour of Sedona that features a visit to the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross, Gallery Row and scenic Schnebly Hill Vista. There will be time at leisure for lunch – perhaps buffalo and cactus fries – and shopping in Uptown for Native art and jewelry. The remainder of your day is free to explore the local galleries, sip latte in a coffeehouse or simply relax at the hotel.
Day #9 Scottsdale - Phoenix - Scottsdale - A local guide introduces you to downtown Phoenix, Camelback Mountain, Paradise Valley and Old Town Scottsdale. Learn how Native American handicrafts are made at a jewelry-making demonstration. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy Old Scottsdale. Later, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner.
Day #10 Scottsdale - Tour Ends -