If you drive from Phoenix south rim is closer, if you drive from Utah north rim is closer. Can see flagstaff, page, Lower and upper antelope canyon, horseshoe bend on the way. Bryce Canyon if you drive from Utah
I am driving from Bay Area so thinking to go to Grand Canyon and Phoenix. Now adding flagstaff and horseshoe, keep it coming
Sedona is somewhat nearby, and is very beautiful. There are some excellent hikes of varying distances. There’s an outfit called Pink Jeep tours that is a lot of fun, and you’ll learn a lot about the local geography, plants, and animals. If you make it to Phoenix or Tucson, I recommend you try Sonoran hot dogs. They are delicious. You can also find some really good, authentic Mexican food in both places.
I do this every holiday season as I have family there. Phoenix/Scottsdale, Flagstaff, Sedona, and grand canyon can all be seen in one loop. If you have more time, add mount Lemmon, Tucson, Bisbee, and tombstone. Do visit the caves near Sierra vista on your way to tombstone.
If you make it it Tucson you can also visit the AMARG (Air Force graveyard), the BioDome 2, old Tucson, and as noted Mt Lemmon is a fantastic hike right now!
It’s gonna be cold over there this time of the year.
Flagstaff is going to gorgeous right now, should be wintery up there. Different planet from the rest of AZ right now. if you dig skiing, Snowbowl might be a good place to stop.
Good controlled sledding places in the area?
Petrified Forest
Calico should be along the way
If weather allows drive 89A from Sedona to Flagstaff, but remember it can get very cold in northern Arizona. If you want warmth, city life and resorts go to Phoenix
My kids enjoyed https://bearizona.com/ in Flagstaff and we just did a drive through..
There’s a massive crater nearby. That’s worth a visit if it’s on your way. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteor_Crater