THE DEAL: Caravan Tours’ 8-day escorted Grand Canyon tour takes you from Phoenix to Sedona, and on to the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and ends in Vegas. Price includes hotels, tour escort, 12 meals, and activities such as a Jeep tour of Monument Valley and a boat cruise in Antelope Valley. Tour dates: October 8, 17, 24. Note: Price does not include airfare. For more information, go to www.caravantours.com or call 800-CARAVAN
On your tour…
WHERE TO EAT: In Phoenix, Pizza Bianco is the go-to place for some of the best pizza in America. Bronx-born chef Chris Bianco took home a James Beard best chef award not so long ago for his crisp-crusted pies. The downside is the wait — they don’t take reservations, and it can be hours. There is, however, a bar right next door. If, on the other hand, you don’t want to hang around, there’s a branch of Brooklyn’s own Grimaldi’s over in Scottsdale. (Pizza Bianco; 623 East Adams Street. Patsy Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria, 4000 North Scottsdale Road)
WHAT TO SEE: The premier American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, made his home in Scottsdale, at Taliesin West, which also served as the master’s office. The complex is open for tours. For more info, go to www.franklloydwright.org.
WHERE TO SHOP: Check out the galleries and shops in the artist town of Sedona; pick up Native American pottery and jewelry at the trading posts on the itinerary.
WHAT TO ADD ON: Once you’ve seen the natural wonders at the Grand Canyon, take a look at the manmade wonders on the strip in Vegas, and add an extra few days to your trip, gambling on luck and seeing a show or two.
