Hertz Car Rental
Arizona

For travelers staying in Scottsdale, looking for a Hertz location in the northern part of the city is an excellent strategy to bypass central Phoenix congestion. Consider branches near the Scottsdale Airpark or along the Loop 101 freeway corridor. These locations provide convenient access to major routes for exploring the region without navigating the busier downtown interchanges. Picking up your vehicle here allows for a smoother start, whether you're heading north toward Sedona or simply exploring the East Valley.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport connects all terminals to the Rental Car Center via the 24/7 PHX Sky Train. After collecting your luggage, follow the signs for this frequent and efficient shuttle. It's wise to check the specific operating hours for the Hertz counter in advance, as late-night hours can vary. Including your flight number in your reservation is also a helpful step, as it allows the staff to be aware of potential delays and better anticipate your arrival.

The most direct and scenic route for a first-time visitor is to take Interstate 17 North from Phoenix to Exit 298 for AZ-179. This highway leads you directly into the Village of Oak Creek and then Sedona, offering stunning red rock views as you approach. For an easy scenic stop, the Sunset Point Rest Area on I-17 provides spectacular panoramic vistas and clean facilities. This route is well-paved and clearly marked, making it a low-stress and beautiful introduction to Northern Arizona.

You should plan for a total travel time of approximately five to six hours for this journey. The drive itself is about 3.5 hours without any stops. Factoring in a comfortable meal break in a city like Flagstaff will likely add about an hour to your trip. A quick grocery run for supplies could take another 30 to 45 minutes, so building this buffer into your schedule will ensure a relaxed and well-prepared arrival at the Grand Canyon.

A great way to split the drive is by making Flagstaff your overnight stop on the first day. This initial leg is a manageable two to two-and-a-half-hour drive, allowing you to arrive with plenty of time to relax and acclimate to the higher elevation. The next morning, you'll have a refreshed start for the remaining two-hour drive to Page. This approach breaks the journey into two comfortable segments and positions you perfectly for an early tour at Antelope Canyon.

The drive from Phoenix to Monument Valley is substantial, taking over five hours. To catch a sunset, you would need to leave Phoenix by late morning to ensure you arrive with enough time to get to a good viewpoint. For a sunrise, it is highly recommended to stay overnight in a nearby town like Kayenta. Attempting to drive from Phoenix in the pre-dawn hours is not advisable due to the long, dark, and remote stretches of highway.

A day trip from Phoenix to Tucson is very realistic and a popular choice for visitors. The drive is a straightforward two hours each way, primarily on Interstate 10. You'll have ample time to explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and other nearby attractions. For the return trip at night, sticking to I-10 is the safest and least stressful option, as it is a well-lit, multi-lane interstate highway all the way back to the Phoenix metro area.

Along Interstate 17, there are several convenient stops with easy access and ample parking. The Sunset Point Rest Area, about an hour north of Phoenix, offers excellent facilities and scenic views. For food and fuel, the exits at Cordes Junction and Camp Verde have large service centers with multiple fast-food chains and gas stations right off the highway. These stops are designed for travelers and eliminate the need to navigate unfamiliar town centers.

To avoid the bustle of the airport, look for Hertz neighborhood locations situated directly in Tempe or in adjacent cities like Mesa or Chandler. These off-airport branches typically serve local residents and business travelers, resulting in a much quicker and more personal rental experience. Picking up your car from one of these locations can save considerable time and get you on the road faster, especially if you don't need an airport shuttle.

During spring training, expect significantly increased traffic, particularly on surface streets around the stadiums in Scottsdale, Mesa, Peoria, and Glendale. The heaviest congestion occurs in the hour before and after games. To navigate between ballparks, utilize the Loop 101 and Loop 202 freeways as much as possible to bypass local traffic. Always plan to leave at least 30-45 minutes earlier than you think you need to, especially if you're traveling during peak afternoon game times.

The Glendale Sports & Entertainment District is well-equipped for large crowds, with primary access from the Loop 101 freeway. Expect heavy traffic on the freeway exits leading to the stadiums, so allow plenty of extra time. Signage for event parking is usually very clear, directing you to large, designated lots. Be prepared for a bit of a walk from your parking spot to the venue and follow the guidance of traffic officials for a smooth entry and exit.

The High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes in Phoenix are designated for vehicles with two or more people during posted weekday rush hours, typically in the morning and late afternoon. During these times, they can be a significant time-saver on congested freeways like I-10, I-17, and the Loop 101. Outside of the restricted hours, they function as a regular lane open to all traffic. As long as you meet the passenger requirement during peak times, they are a low-stress way to shorten your commute.

The interchange near the airport where I-10, SR 51, and the Loop 202 meet, often called the "Mini Stack," can be challenging for visitors. To navigate it smoothly, have your GPS route set up well in advance and pay close attention to the overhead signs for your specific lane. Try to position your vehicle in the correct lane at least a mile or two before the interchange. This proactive approach helps prevent the stress of sudden, last-second merges across multiple lanes of traffic.

On the drive from Phoenix to Las Vegas, Kingman is the ideal major stopping point, located roughly at the halfway mark. It offers a wide variety of restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores for a full meal and restocking. For a shorter break earlier in the trip, Wickenburg provides a charming, old-west town atmosphere. As you get closer to Nevada, the area around the Hoover Dam exit also has services if you need a final stop before reaching Las Vegas.

The drive is primarily on Interstate 10, but it's important to remember the time zone change. Most of Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so depending on the time of year, you will gain an hour when you cross into California. This is crucial for planning your arrival time, especially for hotel check-ins or dinner reservations. Also, be aware that there are long, remote stretches of highway, so it's a good idea to ensure you have a full tank of gas when leaving Quartzsite.

A highly efficient strategy is to use Flagstaff as your central base for a few nights. You can drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff and check into your hotel first. From there, you can take a day trip south to explore Sedona, which is about a 45-minute drive. On another day, you can take a day trip north to the Grand Canyon South Rim, which is about a 90-minute drive, allowing you to see both iconic locations without the hassle of changing accommodations each night.

The safest and most scenic pull-offs are located on State Route 179 after you exit Interstate 17. This road, known as the Red Rock Scenic Byway, has numerous large, paved, and clearly marked scenic viewpoints designed for tourists. These pull-outs offer fantastic photo opportunities of landmarks like Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. On I-17 itself, the Sunset Point Rest Area is another excellent and very safe stop with expansive views perfect for photography.

It is essential to plan your fuel stops, as services become very limited north of Flagstaff. Be sure to leave Flagstaff with a full tank of gas for the journey to Page. A reliable and popular stop along the way is the Cameron Trading Post, located at the junction of US-89 and AZ-64. It offers fuel, food, restrooms, and a chance to shop for Native American crafts, making it a perfect break before the final, more remote stretch of the drive.

To secure a parking spot at highly sought-after trailheads like Devil's Bridge, Cathedral Rock, or Soldier Pass, you should plan to leave the Phoenix area by 5:30 AM at the latest. This timing allows you to complete the two-hour drive and arrive in Sedona between 7:00 and 7:30 AM. On weekends and during peak season, parking lots can be full shortly after sunrise, so an early start is critical for a stress-free hiking experience.

A great approach is to establish a home base in Flagstaff or Williams for several days. From there, you can dedicate one full day to driving north to the Grand Canyon South Rim. On another day, you can explore the cluster of monuments just east of Flagstaff, including Walnut Canyon, Wupatki, and Sunset Crater Volcano. A third day could be a trip south to Sedona or east towards Petrified Forest National Park, keeping each day's driving focused and avoiding long, exhausting loops.

The most convenient method is to make a grocery store your first stop after leaving the airport's Rental Car Center. Use your phone's navigation to find a major supermarket like a Fry's, Safeway, or Target along your route out of the city. These stores have large, easy-to-navigate parking lots where you can purchase an inexpensive foam cooler, ice, water, and snacks for your entire trip in one efficient stop.

A compact or mid-size SUV often provides the perfect balance for an Arizona adventure. This vehicle class offers ample cargo space for luggage, backpacks, and a cooler without being too large for navigating crowded areas. More importantly, it is nimble enough to fit into the often tight and limited parking spaces found at popular trailheads in Sedona or national parks. It also provides slightly higher clearance, which can be helpful on some access roads.

To get a clean start for a sunrise trip, plan your route to use the loop freeways to your advantage. If you're heading north or west, the Loop 101 will help you bypass the downtown core. If you're heading east, the Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway) is typically a faster-moving alternative to the US 60. The key is to be on these freeways and past the most congested interchanges before 6:30 AM to stay ahead of the heaviest morning commute.

For the most efficient route, take I-17 North from Phoenix and exit at AZ-260 to visit Cottonwood first. After exploring Old Town Cottonwood, follow the signs for AZ-89A, which will take you on the scenic, winding road up the mountain to Jerome. After visiting Jerome, you can continue on AZ-89A to Prescott Valley and then take AZ-69 back to I-17 for your return to Phoenix, creating a logical and scenic loop.

For a simple and rewarding wildflower drive, consider heading east on the US-60 towards Superior, where you'll find the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. The highway itself often has beautiful blooms along the roadside during the spring season. Another excellent and easy option is taking the Bush Highway loop near Saguaro Lake in the Tonto National Forest. Both routes are well-paved, easy to follow, and offer classic Sonoran Desert scenery close to the metro area.

Parking at these popular urban mountains is extremely competitive and the lots are often full before 7 AM, especially on weekends. Plan to arrive very early, ideally around sunrise, for the best chance of finding a spot. Be prepared to wait for a space to open up or to use a designated overflow lot if available. Always pay close attention to posted signs in surrounding neighborhoods, as parking is often restricted to residents.

The most practical option is to use the parking provided by your hotel, which is typically the most secure. If that's not available, Old Town Scottsdale has several free public parking garages that are well-lit and centrally located. Using one of these garages is a far better strategy than trying to find overnight street parking, which is often scarce and may have time restrictions that require you to move your car early in the morning.

To minimize stress, avoid driving south on Interstate 17 during the peak return time, which is typically Sunday between noon and 5 PM. Plan to leave Sedona either before 10 AM or wait until after 6 PM to miss the heaviest traffic. Regardless of when you leave, always budget at least one extra hour for the journey beyond the standard two-hour drive time, as unexpected delays are common on this route.

Instead of planning for the typical 2.5-hour drive, it would be more comfortable to budget around four hours for the trip. This allows for at least two relaxed stops. A good plan would be to take a first break at the Sunset Point Rest Area for its easy access and great views. A second, longer stop in Camp Verde provides an opportunity for a snack or a short walk before tackling the final stretch of the drive up to Flagstaff.

For a hassle-free stop, use the exits for Milton Road or Butler Avenue from either I-40 or I-17. These main thoroughfares are lined with a wide variety of restaurants and shopping centers that have large, accessible parking lots. This allows you to easily find a place for lunch and a quick walk without having to navigate the more complex grid of one-way streets and limited parking in the historic downtown core.

The primary concern is the significant elevation gain around Flagstaff, where temperatures can drop dramatically and snow or ice is possible. Before you leave Phoenix, check the road conditions on the Arizona Department of Transportation's website (AZ511). Be prepared for potential winter weather on I-40 and AZ-64 leading to the park. Even if it's warm in Phoenix, conditions can change rapidly, so having extra layers of clothing is always a good idea.

A very efficient route starts by taking I-17 North from Phoenix to Montezuma Castle National Monument, which is located just off the freeway. After your visit, drive west through the town of Cornville to Cottonwood to see Tuzigoot National Monument. From there, you can take the scenic AZ-89A from Clarkdale directly into Sedona. This creates a logical, semi-circular path that minimizes backtracking and saves the beautiful drive into Sedona for the end.

After collecting your vehicle from the Rental Car Center, the most direct path is to use the freeway system. Typically, this involves taking the Loop 202 East to the Loop 101 North, which provides a direct artery into the heart of Scottsdale. This all-freeway route helps you avoid city traffic lights and surface streets. Having your resort's address pre-loaded into your GPS will ensure a seamless and efficient drive directly to your destination.

An excellent and easy day trip is the drive north to the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree. The route takes you through beautiful Sonoran Desert landscapes, and the towns themselves offer a charming, relaxed atmosphere with art galleries and restaurants. Another great option is a visit to Tortilla Flat via the Apache Trail (State Route 88), which provides a dramatic, winding drive into the Superstition Mountains with a unique, historic stop at the end.

The most effective meeting point is the Cell Phone Lot at Phoenix Sky Harbor. Have both parties proceed independently from their terminals to the Rental Car Center to pick up their vehicles. Once both have their cars, they can navigate to the nearby Cell Phone Lot, which offers free and ample parking. This provides a low-stress environment to wait, consolidate luggage if needed, and set up navigation before departing in a convoy.

A fantastic option for a kid-friendly break is the Out of Africa Wildlife Park, located just off I-17 near Camp Verde. It offers a fun attraction that naturally breaks up the drive. For a quicker stop, Rock Springs Cafe at the Black Canyon City exit is a classic road-trip destination with restrooms and outdoor seating. Additionally, the Sunset Point Rest Area provides plenty of space to run around and covered ramadas for shade.

Most modern parking garages in Phoenix can accommodate standard and large SUVs, but it's always wise to check for posted height clearance signs at the entrance. In older areas like Old Town Scottsdale or at some resort parking structures, spaces can be narrower and turns tighter. Drive slowly, use your vehicle's backup cameras and sensors, and don't hesitate to take wider turns to avoid bumping curbs or pillars in these more compact environments.

The most efficient plan is to group the attractions by location. Start your morning at the Desert Botanical Garden and Papago Park, as they are right next to each other and are best enjoyed in the cooler morning hours. After spending a few hours there, you can then make the drive west to the Heard Museum, which is located closer to central Phoenix. This order minimizes cross-town driving and allows you to enjoy the indoor museum during the warmer part of the day.

The best strategy is to drive downtown well in advance of the event and secure a pre-booked parking spot in a garage near the venue. Park your car once and leave it there for the day. You can then explore the downtown area on foot or by using the convenient Valley Metro Rail. This approach completely eliminates the stress of navigating event-related street closures and searching for parking just before your show begins.

For an early morning domestic flight, a safe and realistic timeline is to arrive at the Rental Car Center 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for the vehicle return process, which is typically quick. You'll then need to take the PHX Sky Train back to your terminal, which can take 10-15 minutes including wait time. This buffer ensures you have plenty of time to check your bags and clear security without feeling rushed.