Has anyone ever been to the East Coast of the US and not visited Niagara Falls? I certainly don’t think so! If you did, then great – you just visited one of the most spectacular spots in America. If you didn’t, well it’s high time you read this post, then pack your bags, and leave to witness this mighty wonder.

Niagara Falls isn’t just an attraction more, but rather an experience of a lifetime. I remember the first time I visited and I was completely amazed by its sight. And the fact that people within the States journey from the far east only to see this place is just unbelievable. No wonder it stands to be one of the most recognized landmarks of the world.

Over the years, visitors have also made countless road trips to marvel at this magnificent sheer beauty. And one of the trips which we are going to talk about today is the – Chicago to Niagara Falls.

From the urban traits of Chicago to the picturesque sets of Niagara, there’s a lot to see, do and experience things. It’s only a matter of taking a week to explore this particular road trip and witness some of the grand displays lying in between. While some of the spots are not often talked about, few of them stand apart globally.

This guide will take you right into the adventure of planning a perfect Chicago to Niagara Falls road trip, along with a few essential quick tips, useful resources & links to help you plan better. We’ve also provided a list of places to stay if in case you plan on spending an overnight at a particular stop.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

How to Plan Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip

Planning any road trip requires a great amount of effort, especially in deciding the routes, drive times, and total expenditure. However, with the right knowledge and accurate attention to detail – you could easily perfect any road trip in the world. Since we want you to be better prepared for your journey – below are some of the tips which will help you get your route planning right.

Best Route for Chicago to Niagara Falls

The 557 miles long road trip from Chicago to Niagara cuts through five different states while passing through two of the Great Lakes. There are a couple of routes to reach Niagara, however, attractions & pit stops may vary depending on the one you select. If you aren’t sure which one’s the best, we mapped out three different routes to reach Niagara. Furthermore, we’ve also listed down the best places to stop in between for each of these routes.

However, if you still ask me, which one’s the quickest & most direct one – then I would say the one which cuts through Kalamazoo and Detroit across the Canadian border towards Hamilton. The distance is 528 miles which roughly takes about 8hrs 22mins to reach Niagara.

Driving Times for Chicago to Niagara Falls

For the larger audience, we thought of not restricting our preference to only one specific route but others too – so that you can make a comparison for yourself as to which one’s better. Consider the below driving times for each of the routes and also take into account the places you’d be stopping by.

Northern Route I (via Grand Rapids): 551 miles, a total journey of 8hrs 24minutes.
Northern Route II (via Detroit): 528 miles, a total journey of 8 hours.
Southern Route I (via Toledo): 571 miles, a total journey of 9 hours.

As you can see, Northern Route II (which ideally we suggest) is the most direct one. However, if you’ve already driven this route before, we suggest choosing a different path for your next visit.

How to Rent a Car

To rent a car in the United States, I suggest Rentalcars.com. It’s one of the best rental services I’ve ever come across, offering affordable vehicles for the said duration. With max safety assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your Niagara Falls road trip.

Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Map

Here’s a quick look at the driving route to reach Niagara Falls from Chicago:

Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip

Let’s explore the three routes below and find places worth visiting for your road trip.

Northern Route I via Grand Rapids

This particular route of our Chicago to Niagara Falls road trip is pretty scenic. As you bypass the coast of Lake Michigan, you’ll see picturesque villages and quaint towns in the most idyllic settings of Michigan state. Furthermore, the traffic on this route is comparatively lighter than the other ones mentioned below in the post.

The drive from Chicago to Grand Rapids is approximately 179 miles (2hrs 51mins) via I-94 E and I-96 N. Although it seems to be a long journey of three hours, you wouldn’t be tired of the views Lake Michigan would offer. Moreover, Grand Rapids makes a great stop to explore the state of Michigan a little deeper, as you delve into the energetic atmosphere & culture the town offers.

Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids is an underrated yet well-known destination for arts, history, culture, museums and nightlife. The town is recognized for its lively, bustling atmosphere which often makes travellers come back for a second visit. And while you’re here, we do not want you to miss out on exploring its famous landmarks. Below are some of the notable ones –

1. Grand Rapids Public Museum

Grand Rapids Public Museum is one of the most fascinating museums of all time. Even as the name suggests, this museum is massive in size – with three entire floors dedicated to permanent exhibits and displays. Most of its artwork showcases the history and past timelines of Michigan through immersive content, while other exhibit focuses on topics such as culture and science.

Interestingly, that’s not all. The museum is known to house over 250,000 different artefacts on different subjects such as fossils, furniture, zoology and automobiles. Even if you want to, it’s quite impossible to go through each of them in a single day. And that’s what makes Grand Rapids Public Museum a unique must-visit place.

2. Grand Rapids Art Museum

If you’re an art admirer, then you surely can’t miss visiting Grand Rapids Art Museum. This LEED Gold Certified green building houses a diverse collection of 19th- and 20th-century prints, artwork, paintings, and sculptures. There are over more than 6,000 pieces of decorative art and modern art and design. With its growing collection of displays, the museum is also known for its weekend live exhibits which are entertaining for all families traveling with children.

3. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park

Well, along with all the museums, Grand Rapids is also known for its exciting recreational spaces and parks. One of them is Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park which offers a tranquillity of peace and calm every time you visit. It’s one of my favourite places to explore and definitely a must-visit one in Grand Rapids.

Spread over 158 acres of land, Frederik Meijer Gardens houses some of the most intriguing sculptures and objects. In addition to it, the main area contains five themed indoor gardens and a waterfall. There are also other themed outdoor parks which display beautiful flowers and varietal plant species.

Places to stay: Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront | Hilton Garden Inn

Read More | 8 Ultimate Stops on Chicago to Yellowstone Road Trip (+Map, Tips)

Lansing, MI

Only an hour’s drive from Grand Rapids, Lansing makes a perfect destination for weekend trippers to enjoy museums, sports and local attractions. And well, you certainly can’t miss its trendy restaurants that proudly boast Mchigian’s favourite eateries and snacks.

1. Explore Public Art and Murals

Lansing is an important cultural hub that houses many unique galleries. One of the best ways to explore them is to take a guided or self-exploratory walk across Lansing’s four art districts. From Downtown Lansing to Old Town, the neighbourhood hosts a vibrant mix of exciting sculptures and objects. Furthermore, the historic buildings based in this area are perfectly adorned with contemporary murals.

2. Walk the Lansing River Trail

If you’re an outdoorsy person just like me, then I highly recommend taking the Lansing River Trail. Set amidst the urban and industrial area of Lansing, this river trail runs 16 mile-long from Michigan State University to Potter Park Zoo. You can either walk, trek or bike the entire stretch and grope in some of the scenic spots of this town.

London, ON

The last stop of this stretch before reaching Niagara Falls in London, Ohio. About two hours drive from Lansing which also includes the US-Canada border crossing – you’ll get to see a blend of landscape diversity from both countries.

1. Boler Mountain

One of the key attractions of London, OH is Boler Mountain, which is a ski resort located in the southwestern region of Ontario. The place absolutely drives a crazy amount of tourists during the peak season. With skiing, snowboarding and treetop adventure parks, Boler Mountain is easily one of the must-visit places for our Chicago to Niagara Falls road trip.

Northern Route II via Detroit

Compared to other routes, this one via Detroit is the most convenient & direct one. Ideally, weekend trippers from Chicago usually prefer this route to travel towards Niagara Falls. Furthermore, the local towns of St Joseph, Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo make a perfect pit stop to break your long journey.

Kalamazoo, MI

Located in the state of Michigan, Kalamazoo is a traveller’s delight filled with loads of entertainment, local museums, bustling cafes & restaurants, planetariums and performing art venues. It’s a thriving city that growing & flourishing with exciting touristic opportunities. Some of the famous things to check out in Kalamazoo include –

1. Visit Henderson Castle

This historic fairy-tale castle has been a popular spot in Kalamazoo for ages. The castle has everything that you’d normally expect to see in countries like Ireland and Scotland. There are large garden spaces filled with varietals of plant species, vineyards, ballrooms and excellent interior decor – which ultimately makes it an eye-pleasing attraction for visitors. You wouldn’t expect a modern city like Kalamazoo to have such a historic castle based within, however, it’s one of the coolest spots to visit.

2. Kalamazoo River Valley Trail

There’s nothing more adventurous in Kalamazoo except for the River Valley Trail which gives an enthralling experience of being close to nature. Covering more than 22 miles, this valley trail is a beginner-level path which is largely wide and flat, making it suitable for walkers, joggers, and bikers. The trail winds down through valleys, rivers and lakes, and can also be best experienced at night to view the city lights.

Read More | 8 Spectacular Spots on New York to Maine Road Trip (+ Map, Tips)

Detroit, MI

The largest city of Michigan, or ‘Motown’ – as it is often referred to by the localities – is one of the most diverse and fascinating cities of the Midwestern metropolis. There’s one thing for sure when it comes to visiting this highly renowned place – that there’s never a dull moment. From the enthusiasts of hockey and baseball games to the unique state-of-the-art museums, spacious parks, and year-round events, Detroit is a city which never fails to impress.

There are plenty of things to do here, but I am going to list down only a handful of them (which is a must-visit). For a detailed list of all the activities to do in Detroit, read this guide.

1. SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium

A great spot for large families travelling with kids – SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium is one of the best spots in Detroit to marvel at underwater species and coral reefs. The aquarium has been a massive crowd puller and you would often find this attraction a little too crowded. And it certainly justifies it, due to its massive collection of diverse marine life – ranging from seahorses and starfish to sharks and octopi.

Travel tip: Try to book tickets for the aquarium online and well in advance. It definitely isn’t easy to get any slots on walk-ins. You can also purchase skip-the-line tickets to avoid long queues.

2. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Detroit has had a huge automotive legacy for centuries. It’s the very reason why localities prefer calling it ‘Motown’ or ‘Motor City’ of America. And its legacy has been passed down in many ways to let the modern world know how huge the automotive industry is in Detroit. One of the fascinating ways to let yourselves get close to this history is by visiting the famous Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation.

This massive 250-acre museum vividly demonstrates the achievements of the country’s most influential men & women, their innovations, advancements, and modern tech. People who love cars or have some sort of obsession would absolutely love the collection of historic vintages placed here. There is about 300 years’ worth of expensive artefacts stored, with many annual & weekly events and exhibitions.

3. Explore the Gastronomy of Detroit

Detroit is not only filled with attractions and activities but also experiences that last with you forever. One of the must-feel experiences of your first-ever visit to this charming city has to be a food tour. The city’s cuisine scene is global yet traditional which brings in more diversity for visitors to experience its gastronomy.

The best way to explore Detroit’s most authentic stalls is to take guided food walks. Generally, these tours bypass tourist traps and can save you money from some expensive eatery places. Moreover, since localities may know more about the city than you – it’s best to hang around with the person to sample Detroit’s most amazing dishes.

While I don’t want to make you drool right away, do save some appetite for Detroit-style pizza, pickled bologna, Coney Dog, Double-baked Rye Bread, and Boston Cooler.

Places to stay: The Siren Hotel | The Westin Detroit | Fort Portchartrain Detroit

Hamilton, ON

During your onward journey to Hamilton, you’ll be crossing the borders, so do have your passports or ID ready. This idyllic town makes a perfect base for travellers to continue their journey towards Niagara. However, there’s an ample amount of things to do here as well.

Within the city’s vicinity, you could go out and explore a bunch of waterfalls like Great Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. Visitors preferring some adventure can hike the Bruce Trail, which is considered to be the oldest and longest in Canada. Alternatively, local museums like the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Battlefield House Museum, and Museum of Steam and Technology can be perfect for relaxed-paced travellers.

Southern Route I via Toledo

You won’t be needing passports for this route journey, as you’ll keep following I-90 E all the way up to Niagara Falls. This southern route isn’t a first choice for travellers, but it’s definitely worth taking if you’ve been to the Falls once. Cities like Toledo, Cleveland, and Buffalo make a great pit stop for overnight stays.

Toledo, OH

Nestled on the banks of Lake Erie, Toledo is an urban and cosmopolitan city sprawling with award-winning cafes & restaurants, pubs, nightlife, and tons of entertainment. Even if you’re just in the city to experience the vivid night scenes, then it’s all worth it!

1. Wildwood Preserve Metropark

Covering an area of 493 acres, Wildwood Preserve Metropark is one of the most visited places in Ohio state. It’s a fascinating park for families travelling with kids, who would absolutely love the nature trails and scenic attractions. Along with the natural sights, travellers can marvel at historic landmarks like Stranahan’s Georgian Colonial-style Manor House which is a complete eye-catching pleaser.

2. Visit Toledo Zoo

An action-packed family attraction – Toledo Zoo is one of the must-visit places in the city. Home to more than 10,000 animals with over 720 varieties of species, this zoo is massive in space. It literally houses every biome of this earth and also hosts weekly events & live exhibitions for kids to experience some new and exciting activities.

Cleveland, OH

Whether you’re here just for a short weekend or a long trip, Cleveland won’t disappoint with its spectrum of activities & experiences. It’s the second largest city after all – which means there are tons of things to see and discover. However, sometimes it could also turn out a little overwhelming when you’re dumped with so many cool options.

Below is a list of some top-rated attractions in Cleveland –

1. Visit Playhouse Square

Based in the city’s theatre district, Playhouse Square is America’s second-largest venue for performing arts. Since the country itself is known for so many Broadway musical shows & plays, it makes a great experience to have it witnessed in person by visiting this iconic place. Today, even local Cleveland productions are making their way in to introduce new musical concepts. So, do ensure that you tick this place off in Cleveland.

Find out more | Check the current events & live theatre performances of Playhouse Square.

2. Explore Little Italy

As the name suggests, Cleveland has got its own Italy-like culture in the form of Little Italy. This area sprawls a wide range of galleries, restaurants, boutique shops, and luxurious stores – which somehow resemble the Italian style. In addition to its vibrant street atmosphere, the area hosts popular events like bocce tournaments, live music shows, Art walks, and much more.

3. Go on a Historic Tremont Food Tour

Never miss the iconic Tremont Food tour of Cleveland on your first visit. It’s the place where only true food patrons can appreciate its gastronomy value. Take along a local expert to explore the riveting streets of Tremont and discover the authentic cuisine of Cleveland. From famous Thai-inspired rice plates to classic American delights, there’s no way you’d end up being hungry post your visit.

Erie, PA

Erie, Pennsylvania is one of the best stops of our Chicago to Niagara Falls road trip. But, don’t take my word for it – it’s your thing to stop by and experience the beauty of Erie. However, just to shine some background on this wonderful place – Erie sits on one of the Great Lakes of America i.e. Lake Erie – which itself boasts a dramatic landscape visually. You’ll simply love relaxing on its beaches or exploring the shoreline of the lake, or hiking or biking your way up to the lighthouse.

If you prefer some wilderness & greenery around, then I recommend taking a visit to the Erie Bluffs State Park. Visitors can easily spend a day or so hiking and fishing at this park. There are even multiple viewing platforms such as the 50-foot Coastal Observation Tower for people to soak in panoramic shoreline views.

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

Chicago to Niagara Falls road trip is filled with exciting adventurers, trendy locations, and amazing attractions. While the experience shouldn’t be only limited to long journeys, we thought of providing some of the best-selling tours & experiences which perfectly compliments our road trip plan.

Further Readings & Resources

New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
San Francisco to Seattle: 10 Most Beautiful San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip

A couple of in-depth American Itineraries –

California: 10-Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Highlights of Alaska: 7 Day Alaska Itinerary : How To Spend One Week in Alaska
Ultimate Alaska: 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip

The post 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops appeared first on Travel Realms.

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip runs along the Great Ocean Road of Australia, which in itself is one of the wonders of this country. I’ve been curating road trip guides for Australia for a long time now, but this in particular is something pretty special to me. The only reason is because of the fact that Great Ocean Road boasts a great diversity of attractions to feel and experience. Even if you journey on a full-day trip from Melbourne, you get to see some of the amazing wonders.

The most notable ones include exploring the mighty Mount Gambier, the acclaimed wine regions of Coonawarra and McLaren Vale, and the postcard-worthy seaside towns of Robe, Victor Harbor and Second Valley. Of course, there are plenty of vantage points and lookout areas that offer perfect panoramic views of the ocean. But all-in-all, Melbourne to Adelaide is one such road trip you should definitely add to your bucket-list adventures.

When it comes to planning a road trip, isn’t an easy task! Especially if you do all arrangements on your own. Thus, to help you out in order to compile everything for this trip, we created a simple yet in-depth guide for Melbourne to Adelaide. This article details all the resources – including the best places to visit, hidden gems to explore, accommodation suggestions, a sample itinerary, and much more.

So let’s get started!

Planning Tips for Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

Firstly, let’s dig into the finer planning details of our road trip. In this section, we’ve provided a detailed map, suggested driving routes, car rental ideas, and much more.

How to Get to Adelaide from Melbourne

There are multiple routes to reach Adelaide from Melbourne. One via National Highway A8 which cuts through the Grampians National Park into South Australia. The other is via M79, which intersects National Highway A8 at Little Desert National Park. Both these routes considerably take less time, as they cut through the state of Victoria directly.

However, the best driving route to reach Adelaide is via Great Ocean Road. It goes without saying, that the journey is far more scenic than the other routes mentioned above. Furthermore, you can span your entire journey across five to six days to get the best experience of Australia.

Melbourne to Adelaide via Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road lies in the state of Victoria in south-eastern Australia. It is a roughly 78-minute drive away from Melbourne’s main city centre and is often regarded as one of the best day trips from the city. This scenic route starts from Torquay and ends in Allansford, covering a total distance of 243 km.

The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is a total of 924 km. If you drive non-stop, it would approximately take 10hr 41mins to reach via the Great Ocean Road.  However, a direct journey is not recommended, and it’s best to include stops throughout your entire road trip. As suggested, plan a detailed itinerary on where to make pit stops, which places to visit, and where to stay. This will ensure that your road trip to Adelaide isn’t tiresome.

How to Rent a Car in Australia

Renting a car in Australia isn’t as difficult as you’d think. It’s a pretty straightforward process, which only requires a little understanding of vehicles. For all my Australian road trips, I’ve suggested Rentalcars.com as their service and price affordability are hard to beat. They are the best in their business, and you can easily get a perfect vehicle at an affordable rate.

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Map

Here’s a driving route map to reach Adelaide (including all the stops)

The Best Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Stops

It’s time to finally hit the roads and explore the best road trip stops on this iconic route.

Discover Great Otway National Park

Drive from Melbourne to Otway National Park: 2hr 46mins (209 kms)

Home to dense rainforests, bushlands, tiny waterfalls, and rugged hiking trails – Great Otway National Park is a paradise for all wildlife & adventure lovers. Upon crossing Apollo Bay at the Great Ocean Road, you’d see a road heading inland from the main highway. This stretch leads youy right into the heart of the Great Otway National Park.

This majestic national park has been a popular stopover point for visitors on the Great Ocean Road. Many tourists stay at Apollo Bay, as the area boasts a great chocie of accommodation. Alternatively, the Great Otway National Park also hosts amazing cottages, treehouses, and lodges. This is ideal for those who plan to stay a couple of days more within the park.

What I genuinely like the most about this place is the diversity of things to see & do. From amazing hiking & walking trails, to ziplining across the forested area – the Great Otway National Park bustles with thrilling and energetic activities.

Otway Fly Tree Top

The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is perfect for families, friends, and young children to enjoy a range of vast activities in the middle of a national park. The two main activities – ziplining and the treetop walk – are the most popular ones here.

The Fly Tree Top, which is situated 25-metres above the ground, gives unparalled views of the Otway Ranges. Its a suspension bridge that expands 600 metre in length. To complete the walk from one end to another, it will approximately take one hour. All-in-all, the Fly Tree Top is a fun adventure to witness the rainforest from soaring heights.

The zipline, on the other hand, is perfect for thrill-seekers. The rope is suspended up to 30-meters in height, from where visitors can zip through the treetops from one station to the other. Ensure that you book both the activities well in advance, as they sell out like hot cakes during peak season.

Cape Otway Lightstation

Great Ocean Road is already known for its spectacular coastline. There’s probably hundreds of viewpoints and lookout areas spready across Victoria and South Australia. However, nothing can beat the panormic sight exploration of Cape Otway Lightstation.

Nestled atop the cliff, this historical landmark is worthy of its own. The views from the lighthouse are simply unmatched. Furthermore, nearby trails and whale-watching from the lighthouse makes it even more enthralling to explore this amazing attraction.

Guided Excursions of the National Park

The Great Otway National Park has a tremendous indigenous history. I would highly recommend you to consider a guided walk in the forest. These excursions are led by conservationist who provide an in-depth knowledge of the national park’s ecology, native wildlife, and protected communities.

Where to stay in the Great Otway National Park
Budget: Beachcomber Motel & Apartments, The Apollo

Marvel at The Twelve Apostles

Drive from Otway National Park to the Twelve Apostles: 55 mins (61.6 kms)

Nestled alongside the coastline of the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles stands as an iconic landmark of this route. Cometh any season, these towering limestone pillars strike their natural pose to all photographers who want breathtaking pictures. I mean, you could just marvel at this setting for hours and hours, and still not get bored imagining how beautiful they simply look.

The Twelve Apostles were once connected to the mainland cliffs, but by natural occurrences of strong wind & ocean, these limestones got battered with only a few standing tall today. With continuous erosion and changing climate, scientists believe that these limestone stacks will remain unstable in future.

Book Excursion | Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip from Melbourne

Discover the 12 Apostles’ Viewpoints

When it comes to exploration, there are plenty of ways to see the 12 Apostles. The most budgeted way is to take full advantage of the scenic vantage points. These lookout areas offer the best panoramic view of the limestone along with the coastline surrounding them.

The Castle Rock lookout is my favourite one, but it could be a little crowded during the peak season. The second best is Tom and Eva Lookout offering a sweeping coastline view over the Island Arch and the Loch Ard Gorge. Alternatively, head to Island Arch Lookout which provides fantastic views of the historic rock formations.

Must Read | Best Amazing Viewpoints of the Twelve Apostles for Photographers

Marvel the 12 Apostles from the Air

Honestly, there’s no better way to see these limestones than to take an aerial route. A helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles is all you need to catch breathtaking scenes of the surrounding coastline. From the sky, you could also marvel at the Shipwreck Coast that lines up all the way up to Cape Otway.

Take a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge

Learn more about the 12 Apostles’ history, timelines, geology, and marine discovery with a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge. It’s one of the most intriguing places to visit on the coast, as you discover its Ochre-hued cliffs shaped in a dramatic curvacious landscape. Beyond its beauty, Loch Ard Gorge has a popular tale of ship wreckage. But I’ll probably leave this story for your guided adventure!

Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road
Mid-range: The Oak & Anchor Hotel, Lady Bay Resort
Luxury: RACV Torquay Resort, Apollo Bay Guest House, Southern Ocean Villas

Relax at Warrnambool

Drive from Twelve Apostles to Warrnambool: 58 mins (73.7 kms)

Warrnambool is a thriving region that houses some of Australia’s best coastal scenery, quaint seaside villages, fascinating history, and amazing wildlife. The town has been driving a massive number of visitors every year, with plenty of them opting to stay overnight. Thus, along with discovering Warrnambool’s famous sights – you could opt to spend a luxurious night here.

Popular Things to do in Warrnambool, Australia –

Visit Middle Island

Middle Island is a great stop for tourists to spot penguins. They are often found within the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. You’d also see Maremma’s trained dogs at Middle Island guarding and protecting these penguins from foxes. You can also book a ‘Meet the Maremma Tour’ for a live experience.

Go Whale Watching

Warrnambool is a paradisical land for wildlife lovers. Especially, from June to September – the town treats you with an amazing whale-watching experience, as humpback whales return to the shores to mate and socialize. Some of the guided tours do take you out on a discovery ride to watch these whales in their natural habitat. Few of the operators do offer guaranteed success in spotting them.

Mount Gambier

Drive from Warrnambool to Mount Gambier: 2hr 7mins (182 kms)

Mount Gambier is the highlight of your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. Bustling with geological wonders, Mount Gambier houses some of the most natural spectacular scenes. From the underground garden of Eden to the crystal blue water lakes, you can spend half a day exploring the wonders of Mount Gambier.

Popular activities to do in Mount Gambier include:

Discover Umpherston Sinkhole

Umpherston Sinkhole is a blissful, lush green park which houses beautiful garden spaces and traditional English plants. It’s one of the photogenic places of Mount Gambier, which was formed by millions of years of limestone corrosion. However, along with its natural process – James Umpherston ( a citizen of Mount Gambier) – converted the entire sinkhole into a beautiful underground sunken garden.

Explore the magical Blue Lake

Unravel one of the gorgeous attractions of the Limestone Coasts – Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake. This 72-metre-deep lake magically changes its colour into different shades of blue, which contrasts beautifully against the backdrop of the mighty coast. The best time to visit Blue Lake is between November to late February. Many lookout areas and vantage points are spread across the crater’s rim to give visitors the best possible view.

Marvel at Little Blue Lake

The lesser-known version of the famous Blue Lake – Little Blue Lake – is equally impressive and gorgeous. It is less crowded, which makes it perfect for tourists to enjoy swimming and diving. Even if you simply want to relax, the towering 10-metre limestone walls which guard the lake, making it sight-worthy for your eyes.

Explore the town of Robe

Drive from Mount Gambier to Robe: 1hr 26mins (128 kms)

Robe is one of the trendiest coastal towns in South Australia today. Just 90 minutes away from Mount Gambier, it’s a perfect place to stay, unwind and relax after a tiresome journey. Many visitors often tend to overlook this town, and often end up staying someplace else.

But in reality, Robe is seriously a good road trip stop. Given its luxuriant sandy beaches, dazzling cafes, bijou boutiques, and stunning coastal scenery, it’s hard to miss this place at any time.

As you soak up the sun relaxing at a beach, you’d tend to get a natural laidback Australia vibe. And essentially this is what visitors need after a tiresome road trip journey. Even if you don’t go out exploring much, there’s plenty to see within the area you stay. Historically, Robe was once the busiest shipping port in SA. And you could still its past resemblance through period buildings and old maritime structures.

Because it was a shipping port once, you’d definitely find some of the state’s finest seafood restaurants located. Some of the local’s favourites include Sails at Robe, Caledonian Inn, and Robe Seafood & Takeaway. The word is you shouldn’t miss out on trying their famous crayfish.

Where to stay in Robe, SA
Budget: Sea Vu Caravan Park, Robe Marina Accommodation

Wander through Fleurieu Peninsula

Drive from Robe to Fleurieu Peninsula: 4hr 6mins (369 kms)

Fleurieu Peninsula is one of my favourite places to visit in South Australia. If you look at our Australian section, you’d see dozens of guides & resources being curated on this region. So, understandably – Fleurieu Peninsula is emerging as one of the hotspots of this amazing country. And that’s the reason why we thought this place should be listed on our Melbourne to Adelaide road trip stops.

This small-sized peninsula packs incredible things to see and do, with beautiful coastal villages, varied hiking trails, diverse native wildlife, and excellent culinary scenes. What pleases me the most is the contrast of crystal clear beaches with a backdrop of towering peaks and rugged landscapes. Such kind of setting opens up the door for visitors to venture into exploring opportunities.

Must Read | 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

Fleurieu Peninsula is home to amazing attractions and some of the major ones include visiting Victor Harbor, Normanville Beach, Horseshoe Bay (Port Elliot), Port Willunga Beach, and Rapid Bay. For outdoor enthusiasts, Deep Creek National Park will offer an enriching experience of being in the wild. It is also one of South Australia’s beloved camping destinations. If you plan on spending a couple of days extra, then you could also add Onkaparinga River National Park to your itinerary.

What you shouldn’t miss doing in Fleurieu Peninsula is trying out the local cuisine. The region is best known for its classic fish & chips, and there’s no way you could miss the opportunity of sampling it. If you aren’t sure where to look, then this guide will help you in finding the best fish & chips. For a more indulging experience, we also have curated a guide on the best restaurants located in Fleurieu Peninsula.

Also Read | 5 Best Restaurants on the Fleurieu Peninsula

Visit McLaren Vale

Drive from Fleurieu Peninsula to McLaren Vale: 44 mins (51.9 kms)

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip isn’t only popular for its scenic attractions and sights, but also for acclaimed wine regions that remarkably mark their footprint in the culinary world. And there’s no better place than McLaren Vale to relax, unwind, and sample some of the deliciously locally produced wine.

McLaren Vale is only a 40-minute drive from Adelaide. It is regarded as the premier wine region of South Australia. With bushland, vineyards, cellar doors, and award-winning restaurants harbouring the entire region – it’s no wonder that McLaren Vale is also one of the best weekend destinations to explore.

McLaren Vale offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to wander off on their own. Be it sampling the local wines, or joining a guided tour to get an in-depth wine-making process – there are endless things to do here. You could also delve into their wine collections, explore cellar doors, hop into some local cuisine and shop their local farm produce. If you prefer outdoor adventure, then discover its many hiking and scenic walking trails.

Must Read | Explore five of the finest McLaren Vale’s wine trails and scenic walks

Apart from the normal things to see & do in this wine region, there are two main attractions which you shouldn’t miss at any cost – Down The Rabbit Hole and d’Arenberg Cube. These newly introduced attractions are notably worthwhile. To find out more, read this guide.

Book Excursion | McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting Tour

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

We hope the above detailed road trip stops gave you a comprehensive idea of all the must-see places. However, its a hassle to plan and compile them into one single itinerary. To help you out with this, we created a custom sample itinerary of Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. This sample includes all the places, attractions & experiences listed in our above section.

Sample Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Depart Melbourne
Melbourne to the Great Otway National Park
Overnight at park of Apollo Bay

Day 2

Leave early morning from Otway
Explore Port Campbell & the Twelve Apostles
Head to Warrnambool
Overnight at Warrnambool/ Port Campbell

Day 3

Early morning checkout from Port Campbell
Drive to Mount Gambier
Exploration & sightseeing at Mount Gambier
Overnight stay

Day 4

Drive towards Robe
Spend a relaxing day at this surfing town.
Overnight stay

Day 5

Head to Fleurieu Peninsula
Explore McLaren Vale, Victor Harbor & other places
Overnight stay

This custom curated five day Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary is perfect for all age-groups. The plan ensures that you visit all the top-rated attractions of Victoria and South Australia. If you need to check out a seperate itinerary for Great Ocean Road, then read this guide.

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

Explore a range of vast activities, experential tours, and niche guided exursions with GetYourGuide. Our partnership with them brings amazing tours which can compliment your road trip well. With easy availability & affordable pricing, you can be sure of booking the right activity at the right price.

Further Readings & Resources

Love Australian road trips? Here are a couple of in-depth guides:

Great Ocean Road: The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary for 2 Days
Whitsundays: Whitsundays Itinerary 7 Days: Ultimate Guide (+ Sailing Ideas, Tips)
Airlie Beach: 3-Day Airlie Beach Itinerary | How to Spend 3 Days in Airlie Beach
Flinders Ranges: The Ultimate Guide to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Explore Fleurieu Peninsula with us:

Experiences: Best Things to Do in the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia
Where to Stay: 10 Gorgeous Places to Stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula
Coastal Towns: 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

The post The Ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip (+ Map, Itinerary) appeared first on Travel Realms.

About a two hours’ drive north from Phoenix, lies the picturesque desert town of Sedona in Arizona. If you’re in America and looking for an outdoor paradise, then head straight to the Rock Country of Sedona. In this guide, I’ll cover all the amazing things & experiences you could have during your trip to Sedona, plus one uniquely curated itinerary to help you plan a perfect journey.

From desert rock formations to barren lands and stunning scenery – Sedona is a favorite destination amongst travelers. If you love the outdoors, and if you enjoy exploring open landscapes – Sedona has to be on your bucket-list places. Ideally, one day in Sedona would sound like blasphemy – because there’s so much to explore, which can easily enable you to add a week’s worth of hikes & tours.

Sedona is a small town, with less than 11,000 of the population that grew in popularity for its excellent hiking and vibrant arts community. Apart from all the stunning setup you see around, Uptown Sedona is packed with trendy cafes, boutiques, spas, and art cultural galleries.

On the outskirts of the town, you will access many of the Red Rock State Park trails, which gives you access to discover the best of Sedona.

Since the town is located just in-between Phoenix and Grand Canyon South Rim – day trips to other popular places like Flagship, Tusayan and Grand Canyon become much easier. Moreover, all the trips you take to reach Sedona are worthwhile!

WHY VISIT SEDONA?

Visitors often figure out why to visit Sedona, especially when you have so many rock formations and famous American canyons to explore.

Honestly, Sedona is a special place – that is well worth a visit! The town does stand out from the crowd, with its gorgeous landscapes as far as the eye can see. Especially, for couples. Sedona is one of the romantic places to visit in Arizona. Here are a few reasons I want to shed some light – on why you need to visit Sedona in 2022.

Experiences – Sedona is a perfectly serene place to indulge in transformative experiences. Combine the stunning outskirts with a breadth of amenities within the town – you’ll find a whole new affair with its tourism.

Outdoor Adventures – Popularly, known for sporty activities, hiking trails, and bike rides – the desert town becomes a paradise for all outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking down a trail to enjoy the sunset or take a jeep ride to endure rough terrain – Sedona won’t disappoint you!

Spiritual Healing – Apart from all the experiences you have in Sedona – the town is well-known for its spiritual healing and personal enrichment. Relax, unwind and nourish at some of the renowned centers in the town.

Native American Culture – An ideal way to discover Sedona’s rich history is to take guided tours across the red rock landscape. With the help of knowledgeable guides, you’ll hear unique Native American stories and their ancestral cultures. 

THINGS TO DO IN SEDONA FOR COUPLES

Along with the vibrant scenes of downtown Sedona, the main touristic exploration lies in its red sandstone formations. As you drive across from Phoenix to Sedona, you’d already be in awe to see towering peaks that stretch across the deep horizons. Probably you’d wonder – where do these mountains get their golden red-orange layers from?

To watch these spectacular scenes, millions of tourists travel to Sedona every year – and participate in numerous activities like biking, hiking, rock climbing, meditating, and visiting the famous Sedona vortex.

To discover amazing sights & activities, check my tips for the top things to do in Sedona.

BELL ROCK SEDONA

Bell Rock is one of the first recognizable landmarks you’ll see on your drive to Sedona. As the name suggests, the rock is in the form of a giant bell that can be seen from one of the viewpoints. If you pull off your car on State Rock 179 – then you get to witness the Bell Rock up close.

Many of the hiking routes at Bell Rock leads you to shorter & easy trails of Bell Rock Pathway and Courthouse Butte Loop. It’s perfect for visitors to want to experience the rocky formations via different hiking viewpoints.

For those looking for a strenuous hike – head to Bell Rock Trailhead. It starts moderately at the base but eventually gets challenging as you start climbing up the face of the rock.

CATHEDRAL ROCK SEDONA

One of the most photographed sights in Arizona – the Cathedral Rock in Sedona is an epic cluster of red rocks butte on the skylines. You can again catch the sights of this towering peak on a pull-off along Highway 179, or experience up close via biking, hiking, or horseback trails.

Cathedral Rock in Sedona is a complex trail, and not to be taken lightly with its straight pathways. But still, due to its natural rock formational aura – it’s quite famous amongst tourists, who anyway take up the challenge to hike up.

The trail is open to all groups and can be accessed off on Back’O’Beyond Road. Alternatively, you can reach the Cathedral Rock Trailhead via Baldwin and Templeton too.

To reach the top, you’ll have to traverse through a variety of slippery rocks. I recommend you wear proper hiking shoes to be able to climb up/down easily.

Although the distance to hike up the peak is just under 1.5 miles, but being situated atop 740+ feet high – the scenic views of Arizona will impress you with its striking beauty! Especially, if you reach around sunset, the effortful hike will sound very rewarding.

GO HIKING

One of the best things to do in Sedona for couples is to go hiking. Home to over 100 hiking trails – Sedona offers a diverse experience for all adventure-enthusiasts to witness jaw-dropping vistas. The red rocky mountains of Arizona with their crimson spires and blaze-orange cliffs offer visitors perfectly led hiking trails to indulge in. Apart from the ones I covered (Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock) – there are plenty of other hiking trails you should explore – if you plan to stay in Sedona for more than a day.

Doe Mountain Trail – This 1.2-mile out-and-back trail leads visitors to spectacular scenes of the Arizona red mountains. Being a popular hiking trail amongst tourists, you can be sure of finding your little piece of solitude to gaze across the landscape. Viewpoints along the trail – extend out to scenic areas of Mescal Mountain, Courthouse Butte, Fay Canyon, and Bear Mountain.

Boynton Canyon – This trail is rather long (6.1 miles) compared to others, taking travelers through several lush green forests of Arizona. The highlight of taking up this trail – is experiencing an energy vortex near the start of the trail. If you continue along the path, to reach the top – you can expect stunning views of Deadman’s Pass, Mescal Mountain, and Courthouse Butte.

Devil’s Bridge Trail – For beginners looking to take on a simple challenge, should visit the Devil’s Bridge. It’s frequently visited by travelers, leading you to a beautiful sandstone arch. If you want to avoid large crowds during your hike – start at Chuckwagon Trailhead for a shorter trip to reach the steeper arch.

EXPERIENCE SEDONA VORTEX

While there are beautiful landscapes and natural attractions in Sedona to see, there’s one such thing that cannot be seen with the naked eye. It’s a vortex. Deemed as one of the romantic & blissful experiences, feeling a vortex is the best thing to do in Sedona for couples.

A vortex is a place where enhanced levels of energy get gathered and swirled around the earth. In Sedona, there are specific locations where the earth’s energy moves and draws everything to its center like a tornado. To experience this ever-natural liveliness, over 4 million tourists travel to Sedona. It is said there 4 main vortex sites, radiating their particular energy around the rocky lands of the town. This can of course be visited and experienced in person during your trip to Sedona.

Airport Mesa Vortex – Based on proximity and accessibility, Airport Mesa is one of the famous Sedona vortexes. It is located near the intersection routes of 89A and 179 (the “Y”). To reach the top, you need to take the Airport Loop Trail (3.2 miles). You do require some fitness level, as the stretch is uphill and strenuous. Airport Mesa Vortex is known to produce masculine energy, nourishing the self-confidence and motivation of a person.

Bell Rock Vortex – Bell Rock is pumped with power and full of vortex energy. That said, it is known to give out positive vibes of masculinity, femininity, and balance.

Boynton Canyon Vortex – Located over half a mile from the Boynton Parking lot, visitors enjoy the Boynton vortex the most. It is believed that there are two vortexes here, forming powerful energy between the red rock formations. That said, it offers a perfect balance between ‘masculine and feminine energies.

Cathedral Rock Vortex – To free the true power of the Cathedral Rock Vortex, you need to visit the Saddle of Cathedral Rock. The path is extremely difficult and should only be taken considering your fitness level. But even for those, who don’t want to hike up to the Saddle – take the Templeton Trail to Oak Creek. This path is much easier, with a plain surface to walk upon. Here, the vortex is believed to spread out a harmony between goodness, patience, and compassion.

VISIT THE CHAPEL OF THE HOLY CROSS

One of the ‘must-visit’ places in Sedona, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, is a Roman Catholic chapel perched on a small plateau directly into the red rocks.

Constructed in 1956, the magnificent architecture of the chapel is something that drives crazy tourism every year. Both the inside and the outside views of the place are phenomenal – with a giant 90-foot cross contoured. There’s no entry fee to visit the chapel, however, you need to be mindful of the tourists that gather here to visit. It’s usually super-crowded, and the parking is tight.

Make sure you reach early in the morning to at least visit the chapel conveniently.

EXPLORE TLAQUEPAQUE

Interested in a unique shopping experience? Head to Sedona’s most diverse arts and crafts village of Tlaquepaque. Pronounced as T-la-Keh-pah-Keh, the place was originally a Mexican-style market, which now houses more than 40 specialty shops, quirky galleries, and stylish restaurants.

It’s a perfect paradise for all shopping lovers, to explore markets selling different types of jewelry, fine art, collectibles, and gift merchandise.

HAVE FUN IN UPTOWN SEDONA

Away from the rocky landscapes of Sedona, lies the old part of the city – where most of the restaurants, boutiques, and lovely-looking galleries can be found. Uptown Sedona has always been a modern-looking region that drives Sedona’s major tourist economy. Thanks to the quaint little shops that add to the charm of a small-town environment.

If you were to visit Uptown Sedona during weekends, then parking is hard to come by. It’s most crowded, and you’ll unlikely find spots to park. I recommend you to travel early during the day to explore this beautiful town.

TAKE SEDONA JEEP TOURS

Sedona has a plethora of activities for you to try! Let that be adventurous, cultural, or spiritual – the region boasts an excellent amount of experiences. But, if you’re visiting Sedona for the first time and just have a day trip to explore major activities – I highly recommend you to take popular Sedona jeep tours.

In particular, the Pink Jeep Tours in Sedona are the most famous ones that take you on an off-beat journey. With plenty of options to select from jeep categories, duration, and length of times – choose and book your ideal package and seek exciting adventure along your way.

Their iconic open-air pink jeeps provide the ultimate experience to the rocky terrain of Sedona. It’s even more fun and memorable if you’re with family.

Tip – Pink Jeep Tours in Sedona are extremely popular, and hence they often get sold out pretty fast. It’s better to book the activity well in advance. You can find a range of classic jeep tours here. If you’re unable to decide, my recommendation would be – Sedona: Red Rock Range Pink Jeep Tour.

VISIT AIRPORT MESA

Airport Mesa provides gorgeous unobstructed views of Sedona. It’s relatively easy to reach the top, with a 5 minutes uphill drive.

Not only does Airport Mesa offer 360-degree views of the region, but also a great spot for popular roadside hikes, vortex energy points, and sunset views.

TAKE A SPA IN SEDONA

Popular for wellness experiences – Sedona boasts excellent spa retreats. I highly recommend exploring some of the spas in Sedona, after you’ve had a long day touring and hiking the region’s rough terrain.

Here’s a list of top-rated spa resorts in Sedona –

• Enchantment Resort
• Amara Resort & Spa
• The Wilde Resort & Spa
• Poco Diablo Resort

Check more spa resorts and fantastic deals on them here.

VISIT DEVIL’S ROCK BRIDGE

Devil’s Bridge Rock is a marvelous, natural sandstone bridge that swanks 45 feet drop. To reach the top, you need to hike the Devil’s Bridge Trail, which is 3.9 miles long. It’s a moderate path, with some dirt trail towards the end portion.

The best part about the hike is that it takes you through some of Sedona’s most quaint sections of dramatic scenery. Along with that, a few sections of the Coconino National Forest even makes your hike worth every effort.

PHOENIX TO SEDONA ROAD TRIP STOPS

It’s not only Sedona that makes your trip memorable, but its the road trip from Phoenix to Sedona that makes your entire trip worthwhile. There is a lot to see and do along the way, and honestly, it will make you pull over at several stops to praise the Arizonian beauty.

Here are some of the best Phoenix to Sedona road trip stops –

BLACK CANYON CITY

As you depart from Phoenix, the first region you’ll come across is Black Canyon City. Located 46 miles north on Interstate 17, this region makes a perfect stop-over point for you to explore picturesque scenes and understand fascinating history. In the territorial days, the region was used as a military zone point. If you’d like to explore the region in its entirety, then consider taking a hike on the historic Black Canyon Trail.

Additionally, visit the tourist exhibits and learn more about Black Canyon’s interesting stories at Black Canyon City Visitor’s Center.

Agua Fria National Monument

Continue down the road via Interstate 17, and you’ll come across one of the most beautiful places – the Agua Fria National Monument. Interestingly, this was my favourite stop point before reaching Sedona. What I liked the most – is the expansive area, which is spread across 71,000-acre. That’s vast!

Agua Fria National Monument houses more than 450 distinct Native American structures, along with numerous petroglyphs and significant systems of the prehistoric era. The monument is even home to amazing hiking trails, two mesas, and open grasslands. Deep as you go towards your exploration, you’ll spot the canyon of the Agua Fria River.

Along with historic ruins, you’ll find Native American wildlife like – coyotes, bobcats, antelope, mule deer, and various species of birds. Wildlife-viewing, bird-watching, 4×4 driving are some of the activities you could indulge in during your detour to Agua Fira.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Quite famous amongst visitors, Montezuma Castle National Monument becomes a ‘must-see’ spot during your road trip from Phoenix to Sedona.

The National Monument is divided into two main areas – the Montezuma Castle area and the Montezuma well area. Both are worth the visit, especially the castle that showcases large cliff dwellings. The main structure of the cliff dwelling is a five-story building, with around 20 spacious rooms. It makes you feel more like an apartment than a castle, with intricate work done inside.

The castle has been beautifully preserved, making it the go-to spot for all age groups. It’s even a fun experience to hike the 0.3-mile paved trail leading to limestone cliffs.

You can book your tickets to the Montezuma Castle from the park’s Visitor Center. The cost of an adult is $10, which gives you access for 7 days. It’s free for children aged 15 and under. For more details on pricing and operational hours, visit the website.

SEDONA ONE DAY ITINERARY

It’s time to compile most of the above-listed attractions & experiences into a perfect Sedona itinerary. This is just a sample travel plan I’ve curated – to give readers a gist of which places you can cover, and what else you can do. Although one day is enough to explore Sedona in its entirety, the below suggestion will help you if you are short on time.

7.00 A.M – Early Departure
Depart from your hotel early in the morning to drive across from Phoenix to Sedona. Spend some time exploring the viewpoints along the road. If you want to save your energy more for Sedona’s activities, then you can skip Black Canyon City and Agua Fria National Monument. Stop directly at Montezuma Castle and spare some time to explore the castle’s diverse landscape.

9.00 A.M. – Arrive in Sedona
Try to reach Sedona by 9 am, and re-energize yourself with a nice, delicious breakfast at either Layla’s Bakery-Café or Wildflower.

9.15 A.M. – 9.40 A.M. – Red Rock Ranger Station and Visitor Center
Before you start your adventurous journey in Sedona, spend some time at the Red Rock Ranger Station to learn about the area’s many scenic wonders and exciting tourism opportunities. Understand Sedona’s rich history, geological importance, human timeline, and much more in detail via their educational services.  

9.50 A.M. – 10.15 A.M. – Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock & Pathways
Enjoy a scenic photo stop at each of the stunning beauties of Sedona. Since, you have limited time in hand – hiking on multiple trails is not feasible. However, you could choose any one trail to hike upon, and spend some time exploring. Alternatively, you choose to visit Bell Rock Vortex to feel the earth’s raw energy.

10.50 A.M – 1.00 P.M. –Discover activities in Uptown Sedona
Experience multiple activities during your exploration to Uptown Sedona, or take one of the guided excursions to discover more opportunities.

Enjoy a trolley ride – Ride through Sedona’s stunning landscape on a quaint open-air trolley and spectate some exciting views of the town’s rocky terrain. You even get to visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross and Boynton Canyon if you take the trolley ride. With live commentary and knowledgeable guides, you’ll fascinatingly discover the best of Sedona.

Off-road adventure – If leisure travel is not your cup of tea, then tour Sedona and its Red Rock Country on an adventurous off-beat path. Enjoy the ride to the backcountry, and rugged landscapes to have an unforgettable experience. You can book these guided excursions, for an off-road adventure.

Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village – Situated on the banks of Oak Creek, is a popular art and crafts village of Tlaquepaque. Explore shops, galleries, and unique restaurants here.

1.00 P.M. – 2.00 P.M. – Lunch
Lunch at one of Sedona’s amazing restaurants. From American, Italian and Chinese cuisine to vegan, gluten-free dishes – you would never run out of options. My recommendation would be – Creekside American Bistro, The Hudson, and Café Jose Restaurant.

2.15 P.M. – 3.00 P.M. – Visit Airport Mesa Overlook
Find yourself amidst a great vantage point of Sedona’s famous location – Airport Mesa. Spend some time here, relax and take plenty of photos. You can stretch an extra time here to experience the Airport Mesa vortex.

3.15 P.M. – 4.15 P.M. – Sedona Pink Jeep Tour
Book a guided pink jeep tour to explore the rocky mountains of Sedona.

4.30 P.M. – Depart Sedona
Drive back to Phoenix (2-hour drive).

WHERE TO STAY IN SEDONA

If you’re visiting from Phoenix to Sedona as a day trip, then you can find the best deals on accommodation here.  

For travelers staying in Sedona itself, it’s worth checking out these deals on the best hotels/stays. You can filter out your preference by style, budget, and duration to stay in Sedona.

GUIDED TOURS AND EXCURSIONS

If you don’t want to get into the hassle of planning a trip to Sedona, then my recommendation would be to book an organized tour. As mentioned above in the guide, Sedona is home to many such experiences that are distinct. Through guided excursions, experienced tour guides will take care of you & your entire travel trip.

It’s an easy way to travel, and you can save more time by avoiding trip hassles.

Do check some of my personal favorites below that are worth booking! For more such tours, check the catalog here.

Popular day-trip: Sedona’s Main Sight-seeing tour

Experiential Tour: Hiking & Wine-tasting Tour of Sedona

Wellness tour: Sedona Spiritual Vortex Tour

Hope you found this post useful! If you have any more experiences/ suggestions to share, please feel free to comment down below. If this article helped you – then do bookmark it, share it amongst your family and friends and spread the word.

The post Ultimate Things to Do in Sedona for Couples (+ Itinerary) appeared first on Travel Realms.

Over a few million years, the Colorado River has chiseled its way through the Colorado Plateau, to form this all-embracing landscape we know – Grand Canyon. It’s one of the most visual-appealing sites in America that needs to be visited by every traveler.  The formations, the zig-zag hiking trails, pathways, and lookout points – all make your trip worthwhile.

Grand Canyon National Park teems with canyons, river tributaries, open-wide areas, and surrounding grounds. Being situated in Arizona’s quadrant, Grand Canyon is easily accessible from other nearby cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas. Since it’s one of the most visited places in the world – Grand Canyon has also been coined as a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1979.

On your first-time visit to Grand Canyon, there is more to do than just gazing at the landscape from the Visitor Center. You can indulge yourself in activities like – touring the sight-points, discovering trails, bicycling across the paths, and even taking up a helicopter flight.

Grand Canyon National Park is divided into two public areas – the North and South Rims. Both of these rims are accessible to the public – meaning you could traverse across the canyon and do rim-to-rim hikes. But, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is the most accessible section considering the routes and hiking trails it has carved. You could even travel to the North Rim, but it isn’t as popular as its southern sibling – especially because of the harsh winter weather. Roads are mainly closed, and the experience isn’t pleasant.

In this guide, I’ll be focusing more on the best things to do in Grand Canyon of South Rim. At the end of the article, you’ll get much more familiarised with visiting the canyon and nearby attractions. 

BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE GRAND CANYON

VISIT THE SOUTH RIM VIEWPOINTS

One of the best things to do in Grand Canyon is to explore its viewpoints. There are dozens of viewpoints dispersed along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. All of it, offering phenomenal views of the canyon. Few of these viewpoints are just better in terms of lookout areas and accessibility. Some of them are less crowded, some are unspoiled and some make your experience worthwhile admiring the scenic vistas.

In total, there are three main gateways to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park – Desert View Drive, Grand Canyon Village, and Hermit Road. Each of them is unique, offering different experiences according to the season you travel.

Viewpoints along Desert View Drive –

To explore the viewpoints on Desert View Drive, you’ll have to exit the Grand Canyon Village and go around the canyon rim for at least 26 miles. You’ll reach a vantage point of Desert View, which is nestled at the East entrance of Grand Canyon National Park.

Located on Desert View Drive, of the 246-mile marker west – is the Shoshone Point Trail. The wide-ranging views of the eastern Grand Canyon are something that will attract your attention. You’ll need to be careful across the edgy Shoshone Point, because of the loose rocks and narrow ledges.

Get amazing views of Hance Rapids, Horseshoe Mesa, Desert View Tower, and other landmarks from the rim. The viewpoint is also a popular location to witness sunsets.

Moran Point. Enjoy a broad expansive look of the Grand Canyon, directly south of Cape Royal. Below you’ll see the Red Canyon – which is known for its vibrant tributary assorted with deep red-orange layered rocks.

Desert View Watchtower is another great viewpoint located along Desert View Drive. Constructed in 1932, this pre-historic Indian Tower provides vast boundless views of the Grand Canyon. The best part about Desert View Watchtower is the fact you could get a 360- degree view of the Painted Desert to the east, and the San Francisco Peaks to the south. It’s also the highest point on the South Rim.

Grandview Point. As the name suggests, this is a must-visit sight point for tourists exploring the Desert View Drive. It is located just below 7,500 feet, offering grand views of prominent buttes like Shiva Temple, Vishnu Shrine, and Rama Shrine.

Viewpoints on Grand Canyon Village –

All the viewpoints mentioned are located near the Grand Canyon Village. To reach, you can use the Grand Canyon Shuttle (Kaibab Rim Route) or you could hike the Rim Trail.

The first overlook you’ll face is the Mather Point, which is elevated at an impressive height of 7,000 feet. You’ll be filled with astonishment, once you soak in the views from this area. Below the Mather Point, is the Phantom Ranch surged with red-orange glitters. 

Next to the Mather is the Yavapai Point, where visitors can get sweeping panoramas of Havasupai Point and Desert View. Along with gorgeous displays of the canyon, tourists can take guided ranger tours across the viewpoint areas. Be sure to visit the Yavapai Observation Station – where you can indulge yourself in the interpretation offered by guides. Many of these include three-dimensional geological displays, photographs, and interpretive panels – allowing travelers to learn and understand the geological importance of the Grand Canyon.

An observatory station is a great place for curious travelers to even dive deep into understanding the rock formations, layers, and the carving of the canyon over the years.

Yaki Point. Enjoy yet another extensive view of the canyon’s horizon from the South Rim. The Yaki Point Road and Kaibab Trail Parking are accessible only via shuttle bus during peak tourism season. Private vehicle access is closed due to immense traffic.

Viewpoints along Hermit Road –

Hermit Road offers spectacular scenes of the Grand Canyon, with over nine viewpoint areas to choose from. All of the overlooks could be visited by traveling the west end side of the South Rim. From March onwards, till November – you can only access the road via shuttle bus. Some of the points you could observe via your journey include Hopi, Maricopa, and Pima.

One of the highlights is the Abyss along the Hermit Road. The vantage point drops 3,000 feet, offering breath-taking scenes of the Tonto Plateau and the Colorado River.

Some of the famous viewpoints here include visiting Powell Point, Mohave Point, and Pima Point.

EXPERIENCE SUNRISE NEAR MATHER POINT

One of the best things to do on the South Rim of Grand Canyon – is to experience the magical sunrise. I know it can be difficult for travelers, to get up early and travel from one of the nearby cities. But if you get the opportunity, don’t miss it!

Mather Point lookout at Grand Canyon is one of the popular lookout areas to witness the canyon’s gorgeous setting. The sight is unbelievable, especially when the deep blues of first light cascade into orange shades. You could see the dull-colored rocks of Grand Canyon beaming with life, once the rays hit them!

My advice would be to avoid Mather Point because it will be crammed with tourists. Yes, there are early-morning visitors, who travel just to grab the sunrise moment. Instead, head east and walk a few minutes (facing towards the sun), until you reach a rocky outcrop. You’ll find a quiet little spot here, to look over the spanning horizon. It’s all rewarding once you gaze at the dramatic scenery illuminate.

Just take care across the sharp rocky edges, as they are steep and vertical.

FAMOUS SOUTH RIM GRAND CANYON TRAILS

Exploration to Grand Canyon is incomplete without experiencing the South Rim hiking trails. Once you reach the canyon, you get plenty of options to choose from. Although, it might get overwhelming for first-time travelers.

Here are a few options of South Rim Grand Canyon trails you could take up –

BRIGHT ANGEL TRAIL TO 1.5 / 3 MILE RESTHOUSE

The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails at the Grand Canyon, because of its accessibility and moderate difficulty. The starting point of the trail is exactly in Grand Canyon Village and ends near Bright Angel Campground.

The trail is 9.5 miles long. But, it is further broken down into smaller trails that form the entire Bright Angel. You can choose to cover 1.5 Mile Resthouse (3 miles round-trip) or even the further portion 3 Mile Resthouse (6 miles round-trip).

Honestly, the views in my opinion aren’t that great when compared to other trails (especially South Kaibab). Since a large portion of the trail descends through a canyon, it’s unlikely to get spanning views of the rim. But it still offers a pleasant experience for first-time travelers hiking the Bright Angel.

For visitors, who want to continue the larger portion of Bright Angel Trail can further continue hiking towards Indiana Garden and Plateau Point.

SOUTH KAIBAB TRAIL TO OOH AAH POINT

South Kaibab Trail is also one of the famous trails on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Being a shorter and steeper version of the trail, South Kaibab offers more spectacular when compared to the Bright Angel Trail. Amazingly, this trail too starts on the rim and ends at the Colorado River. So if you’re on a day trip to the Grand Canyon, then probably you’d have to make a tough call between Bright Angel and South Kaibab.

The South Kaibab Trail is 7 miles long, offering jaw-dropping scenes as you walk down the trail. Again the trail is broken down into shorter versions – for tourists to hike up only to a certain portion. However, if you’re up to with your fitness level – you could do the entire South Kaibab Trail.

The starting point of the trail is the Ooh Aah Point, which is 1.8 miles round trip. The descent is steep out, but it’s worth it in the end. Further, as you hike, you will reach Cedar Ridge (3 miles round-trip). Last is Skeleton Point which is 6 miles round-trip.

EXPLORE OTHER SOUTH RIM GRAND CANYON TRAILS

Apart from the two famous trails of the Grand Canyon, there are other hiking routes as well, that make your Grand Canyon tour adventurous. Honestly, all of its trails are worth the challenge and is often regarded as the best thing to do in Grand Canyon.

BEAMER TRAIL

Beamer Trails is one of the fewer trails on the Grand Canyon that follows the Colorado River. It starts from the Tanner Trail and heads across the Pallisades Creek. The first part of the trail is near river level, while the other half is along terraces and ridges. Much of the area is narrow, steep, and not maintained properly. However, it is often taken up as a challenge by many adventure enthusiasts.

DRIPPING SPRING TRAIL

The Dripping Spring Tail is 3.1 miles long and can be accessed by private vehicle in winter. You could see a huge overhanging sandstone cliff which marks the landmark of the trail. This is a difficult stretch, especially when you continue to climb up the cliffs.

WALK THE TRAIL OF TIME

The Trail of Time is a short portion of the Rim Trail, which is only 1.7 miles long. It’s a good option for beginners to hike through the canyon and discover places. The trail starts from Verkamp’s Visitor Centre and ends near Yavapai Geological Museum.

VISIT CAMERON TRADING POST

Head north towards AZ-64 and US-89, and you’ll come across Cameron Indian Trading Post. If art inspires you, then you’d enjoy learning some of the finest Native American Art here.

Further, drive east of US-160 to the Tuba City Junction to witness dinosaur tracks!

TAKE A HELICOPTER RIDE

Taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour is a thrilling way to discover the stunning beauty of the landscape. The unimaginable views, gorgeous backdrop, and never-ending canyon skies make your aerial tour worthwhile! The ride also gives you access to the South Rim areas, which you cannot see from other lookout points.

Some of the top companies to book your helicopter ride from –

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Rides
Maverick Helicopters
Canyon Tours

PHOTOGRAPHY AT THE SOUTH RIM OF GRAND CANYON

Being one of the most beautiful sites around the world, Grand Canyon offers endless opportunities for tourists to hone their photography skills! Even if you’re bad at clicking snaps, don’t worry. The vastness of the canyon makes it hard to go wrong.

Here are a few of my suggestions on clicking amazing photographs –

Try to get sunrise and sunset shots – Let’s admit that Grand Canyon is a perfect place to soak in spectacular views of the sunrise and sunsets. If you could get up early, take one of the many trails to hike on, then you could get perfect shots overlooking the horizon. If you’ve got a tripod, then it’s even better to shoot a time-lapse video.

Below the canyon – The rock formations and the red-colorized layers will make your inside-the-canyon shoots Instagram-worthy!

Shadows of the canyon – There’s no way to avoid shadows at Grand Canyon. That’s the reason, it’s best to shoot photos either early or late, depending on your travel schedule.

Visit the resource section to find more tips & suggestions on Grand Canyon photography

GRAND CANYON ITINERARY

Now since you know the exact places in the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, it’s time to compile everything in a summarized itinerary. This way you could plan your travel to the canyons, and see what suits you best. The below itineraries are just a brief overview of a schedule you can expect. You can always tweak/alter plans as per your preferred travel style.

DAY TRIP TO GRAND CANYON

If you do not have much time to visit canyons entirely, or maybe just planning to visit for a few hours – then day trips to the Grand Canyon are ideal. You could visit a few of the viewpoints of South Rim + do a short hike.

Drive down the Desert View Road, and stop by at several viewpoints situated across the area. Do park your vehicle at the Visitor Center and then use the shuttle to travel across. Once you reach, you could either take on the South Rim Trail or hike below the rim.

GRAND CANYON IN ONE DAY

Leave your hotel early in the morning, and take the shuttle to reach the South Kaibab Trail.

Head your way straight to the Ooh Aah Point. An early morning hike means you’ll witness the gorgeous sunrise scenes across the trail. Remember to bring a headlamp/torch along with you, as it could be very dark.

Once you reach the Ooh Aah, you’ll probably observe lesser tourists. This marks a perfect morning before crowds start heating the trails. You can even go further up to Cedar Point or Skeleton Point.

If you don’t hike up further, then you have an ample amount of time to explore viewpoints of South Rim. Visit the overlook areas near the Grand Canyon Village and then head to lunch in one of the cafes/restaurants locally.

You could spend the rest of the afternoon, cycling down Hermit Road. Either go out exploring more viewpoints or visit the Geology Museum to learn & understand the history of the Grand Canyon.

In the evening, you could go for a helicopter ride (check for time-slots) to enjoy sunset views of the canyon.

End your one-day trip with a dinner in the village.

GRAND CANYON IN TWO DAYS

Follow the same travel plan for your Day 1 in Grand Canyon.

On the second day, you could explore the viewpoints along the Desert View Road. Hike a portion of the Brighton Angel Trail, or you could just go on to complete the entire route.

Alternatively, to add up an exciting adventure – hike from the rim to rim on the same day. You could camp overnight or spend a night at the Phantom Ranch Lodge.

If you’re super fit, you could do both the hikes on the same day (Brighton Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail).

HOW TO GET TO THE SOUTH RIM OF GRAND CANYON

South Rim is easily accessible from three major cities of the U.S – Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Flagstaff. You could travel via car, bus, train or plane.

It takes approx. 3.5 to 4 hours from either Phoenix or Las Vegas to reach Grand Canyon and 1.5 hours from Flagstaff. All of the cities are well-connected, so traveling becomes very convenient. Most travelers reach Grand Canyon via car, usually as a part of their American Southwest road trip.

If your time at Grand Canyon is limited only to a day trip, then I recommend booking a stay as close to the park as possible. For visitors, staying up to 2 nights or more – could choose any accommodation they prefer around the region. This is because you could maximize your time spent visiting the Grand Canyon, and not instead on traveling.

If you’re traveling via plane, then can directly fly to Tusayan.  It’s a small nearby town, located 15-minutes away from the Grand Canyon Village.

Additionally, public transportation is also available for you to reach the canyon.

GRAND CANYON TICKET PRICES AND OPERATIONS

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park is open for tourists 24 hours, 365 days a year.

The entrance fee is $35, which includes your visit to both the Rims (North and South).

HOTELS NEAR THE SOUTH RIM GRAND CANYON

Tourists need to book their accommodation nearby to the park, so they can maximize more travel at the Grand Canyon. This gets sorted out with the help of Grand Canyon National Park Lodges that has 6 hotels/cabins spread across the park. Booking up a stay at one of these places gives you the added advantage of easy access to the shuttles, nearby viewpoints, and no in-out travel from the park.

El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins, Kachina Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, Maswik Lodge, and Phantom Ranch are some of the options.

You can get further information on Grand Canyon lodge, and updated pricing here on their website.

I’d also recommend booking your stay at least 4-6 months before your departure.

For more hotel options & perfect stays, visit the site here. Through amazing deals & clubbed offers, you could find your ideal stay in Grand Canyon National Park.

POPULAR TOURS OF THE GRAND CANYON

CONCLUSION

Hope you had a good read! I covered pretty much everything you need to know about the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Also, major things to do and a brief itinerary. I hope this guide will help you in planning a perfect trip to the South Rim.

Below are some of the general questions many tourists have, and these are our answers –

FAQs

Which Grand Canyon Rim is the best?
The South Rim. The reason I covered this guide on South Rim is that the rim is open to tourists year-round. In comparison to the North Rim, the south has more viewpoints, areas that are easily accessible, great facilities around the region, and plenty of visitor services. Overall, having a perfect experience is what I believe in, and South Rim does fulfill all of it.

Is a day trip enough for Grand Canyon?
Ideally, no. However, yes you can visit Grand Canyon for a day trip. The only drawback would be to rush across viewpoints and trails. As you read in the article above, there’s so much to do at Grand Canyon – and a day trip won’t fulfill your experience bucket list.

Can citizens age above 50 travel to Grand Canyon?
Yes, definitely! This question is more around the fitness level – whether or not citizens aged above 50 could participate in hiking trails. I wouldn’t recommend longer trials, because of fatigue and heat exhaustion. However, citizens can travel across viewpoints, access shuttle rides, be at the visitor centers, and much more. The point is – you don’t have to hike to see the canyon. You could get the same breathtaking views from other places in the park.

What is the best time to visit Grand Canyon?
South Rim is a year-round region. However, an ideal time would be March to May and September to November. The weather is pretty decent and the viewpoints are not heavily crowded. I recommend booking hotel stays as early as possible. I’ve seen people not getting their preferred stays, and then end up changing dates.

Can you visit Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?
Yes, you can. The closest access point would be the Grand Canyon Skywalk from Vegas. You can also book guided tours directly to reach the park in the early morning.

The post 7 Classic Things to Do in Grand Canyon of South Rim appeared first on Travel Realms.

Great Ocean Road drive in Australia is one of the country’s finest natural gems. To indulge in one of the coastal experiences is to have a self-drive experience alongside the seaside cliffs blanketing the Southern Ocean. And proudly so, the Great Ocean Road trip allows tourists to witness its striking vistas.

Firstly, not many people plan a dedicated itinerary for the Great Ocean Road drive. Often, visitors tour Melbourne and complete the scenic journey as a part of their ‘half-day trip’. But honestly, you can have a sole Great Ocean Road itinerary for yourself, and the fact that you can have a long excursion tour on the Great Ocean Road is something this guide is all about!

This article covers everything you need to know about the Great Ocean Road itinerary. We briefly detail them, be it experiences, major sightseeing, or must-see activities.

Tourists who take the Great Ocean Road drive frequently have many questions. From where does the Great Ocean Road start? Where does it end? How long is it? Where to stay? And many more questions. To bring all of it to your attention & to answer some very common FAQs – we’ve curated this in-depth guide to help you have a smooth Great Ocean Road itinerary for 2 days.

Along with the Great Ocean road trip planner, we’ve given a list of guided tours & excursions for you to book them alternatively. This will help you plan out which activities to book and which sightseeing to cover in your itinerary.

How to Plan Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary

Great Ocean Road lies in the state of Victoria in south-eastern Australia. The nearest city to which you can travel– in Melbourne. So if you’re in the city & looking for nearby places to explore, then Great Ocean Road is a roughly 78-minute drive away from Melbourne’s main city centre. Supposedly, you’re in Adelaide and planning to take a road trip to the Great Ocean Road; then, the journey is quite a distance (approx. 8-hour drive).

It’s advisable to plan your Australian itinerary to cut down on travelling distance & save enough time to explore nearby places.Also, if you’re looking at only visiting Melbourne & need in-depth travel ideas & suggestions, do check out our- ‘Ultimate Travel Guide to Melbourne Australia‘. Indeed, it will ease your efforts in planning a perfect Aussie trip.

Now, if you’re wondering – where should you exactly start your Great Ocean road trip from? Then the journey starts from Torquay and ends in Allansford. The total distance is 243kms. You are all set to take a spectacular road trip once you arrive. Later in the blog, we will also cover travelling distance & journey time to Great Ocean Road from other Australian major cities to help you figure out travel plans.

Things to Do on a Great Ocean Road Trip

The Great Ocean Road in Australia is home to spectacular natural gifts which we could not describe in simple, just words. I remember my first experience, and I could never forget the journey that made my trip memorable. Apart from the road trip to Great Ocean Road, there’s a bountiful load of things to explore. I actually couldn’t shortlist everything I wanted to do – but then I explored the ones I had planned.

Since there’s so much, cramming everything in your travel plans won’t make sense. It may be tiresome too, to visit every corner. Experiences are endless – from taking an epic surf to indulging in the native Australian wildlife, journeying through the local towns and cafes & restaurants, and hiking and biking trails – plenty of things to see and do.

Best Things to Do on Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary –

Experience the 12 Apostles

Rising out of the Southern Ocean, alongside the Cliffside coastline– you’ll find the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road in Australia. These towering limestone pillars are an iconic landmark for any photographer in the world to capture breath-taking photos. It’s an unbelievable experience to drive through the Great Ocean Road and to stop & admire the beauty of these rugged cliffs hanging out in the ocean.

12 Apostles were once connected to the mainland cliffs, but with the passing time & the strong forces of the wind & ocean, these limestones got carved & battered, making a formation into tall columns. Naturally, there are only seven as of now. But, with the progressing climate changes throughout the years, we never know when the following stretches of cliffs will become pillars.

One amazing thing about the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road is that you can take a bird’s eye view from anywhere.

Things to Do Near 12 Apostles of Great Ocean Road –

Aerial view of 12 Apostles – If the drive-through experience alongside the coast doesn’t justify your viewing experience, then catch a panoramic view of the 12 Apostles with a helicopter flight. Visit the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre to book your tickets for the flight that departs throughout the day. With the choice of your duration, the flight will take you around the sweeping coastline of the Great Ocean Road with magnificent views of Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, the Grotto, the Bay of Islands, and the Shipwreck Coast. It’s one of the memorable experiences you could have during your road trip to the Great Ocean Road in Australia.

Take a coastal walk – Not just the aerial view, but you could also take a short coastal walk on the beach to reach the 12 Apostles. It’s a 7kms moderate walk that will take you through some splendid ocean views. Oh, and if you come across kangaroos, do say hi!

Pro tip – Reach out to the Castle Rock lookout, which will give you perfect scenery from East to West, overlooking Gog and Magog formations.

Tower Hill Widlife Reserve

If the visual delight of the 12 Apostles is one thing, then experiencing the Australian bush & stunning landscapes is another. Victoria’s first National Park – Town Hill, is an ideal place for tourists willing to explore the wild side of Australia. Meet up with koalas, emus, kangaroos, and many other species at Tower Hill who roam freely in and around the National Park.

You can witness some of Australia’s popular species while also indulging in guided Aboriginal tours. It’s an excellent chance for travellers to experience the natural habitat and cultural heritage simultaneously.

Do check out for more options when you’re at Tower Hill. Few other attractions also include walking trails, picnic facilities, and lookouts.

Otwayfly Treetop

Families travelling to the Great Ocean Road in Australia find Otway Fly Treetop a perfect destination to unwind, relax, and participate in fun activities. There’s thrill and adventure at every corner when you visit Otway. For me, a truly exhilarating experience was walking the 600-meter long, 30-meter high elevated walkway. It’s a fun adventure if you want to witness the rainforest from the soaring heights of the treetops.

Book the Otway Fly Zipline Tour for an extreme rainforest experience for serious adventure warriors. Suspended up to 30-meters in height, visitors zip through leafy forests and treetops from one station to the other.

Note – If you directly book the Zipline Tour, then the Treetop walk is included in the package.

12 Apostles Artisans Trails

Did I forget Aussie cuisine? Nope. I’d never do that. Because for me, the gastronomical side of Australia is a niche experience. But while you’re at the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, why not indulge in a severe food trail? Here at the 12 Apostles, you’ll discover the hidden wonders of many artisans and producers who craft exceptional wines & produce tasty local food.

Try out a single malt whiskey aged to perfection at Timboon Railway Shed Distillery, drink down a few beers at Sow and Piglets Microbrewery and munch some freshly baked pizzas at Keayang Maar Vineyard’s cellar door. No matter what you experience, enjoy all of it whilst admiring the country’s most breathtaking scenery.

Explore Mount Gambier

A little further from Alansford lies the geological wonder of Mount Gambier. The second largest town in South Australia is home to dazzling sapphire waters, Little Blue Lake, and an underground Garden of Eden. Perfect for family trips – discover some adventurous fun by snorkelling the crystal–clear waters of the Piccaninnie Ponds or visit the deep-dive site of Kilsby Sinkhole.

Great Ocean Road Itinerary 2 Days

Now that you’re familiar with the attractions & things to do, it’s time to detail our Great Ocean Road itinerary for 2 days. You’ll find plenty of tour operators in Australia – offering guided excursions for the Great Ocean Road journey – but we recommend taking a self-drive to enrich your overall road trip experience.

Self-driving Great Ocean Road is one of the best ways of appreciating the striking views of Southern Victoria. It’s not only about the experience but also the stunning landscapes, zig-zag roads, and unique activities which make your road trip worthwhile.

Below is a two-day self-drive itinerary starting from Torquay and ending at the historic fishing village Port Fairy. You’ll come across cliff tops, surf beaches, lush rainforests, and native Australian wildlife. Along the way, you’ll also come across plenty of lookout areas. Do not miss them! Stop by and admire the scenes as you go along.

Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Total Distance from Melbourne to Apollo Bay: 2hr 33mins (196km)

Drive from Melbourne city to start your Great Ocean road trip. After an hour’s drive, you’ll reach Torquay, which officially marks the beginning of the Great Ocean Road adventure. Known for some best surfing beaches, Torquay is a great starting point for you to explore the surf culture at Surf world. Visit the Bell’s beach later on and hang out for a while before proceeding to your next stop.

You could also stop by Anglesea Golf Club for a kangaroo tour. It gives you the chance to witness the Australian wildlife up close whilst admiring the surroundings.

As you drive along the dramatic coastlines of the Great Ocean Road, make a lunch stop at Lorne Town to hog some delicious cooked Aussie food. Later make your move to Apollo Bay and witness incredible views of the Southern Australian coast at lookouts. Take a stroll, click some photos, and post some stories on your Instagram. Make people jealous!

Moving on from Apollo Bay, drive into the Otway National Park and head straight to the Cape Otway Lightstation. It’s the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia, which you can tour around. Get to the top, and you’ll witness the panoramic views of the Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean.

For a more eco-friendly experience, visit the Wildlife Wonders to meet some of the cutest koalas dozing off on treetops. Well, they’re always sleepy, and you can’t complain!

Head back to Apollo Bay for the night. Dine-in at one of the famous restaurants around the region. You could consider dining at Chris’s at Beacon’s Point, from where the backdrop setting of cliff-tops complements your gourmet food.

Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Fairy

Total Distance from Apollo Bay to Port Fairy: 2hr 34mins (185km)

Traverse your way from Apollo Bay and follow the Great Ocean Road route to reach the lush rainforest of the Otway National Park. It’s an ideal place for families to have fun activities and adrenaline adventures. Experience the Otway Fly Treetop walkway, which is elevated at the height of 30-meters and feel the pump – or zipline your way into the heart of the rainforest with the Otway Fly Zipline Tour.

Follow the road along to reach one of the main highlights of the Great Ocean Road trip – Port Campbell and its famous 12 Apostles. Admire the beauty of these towering limestone hanging out on the main side cliff against the roaring waves of the ocean. Descend 86 of the Gibson steps to walk along the coastline for a ground-level view of this magnificent group of rocks. Spend an ample amount of time & click photos from the best angles you could get! If the views don’t match your admiration of the 12 Apostles, opt for a helicopter ride to catch stunning aerial views.

As you drive past Port Campbell, stop at Warnambool to explore the maritime capital’s history. Head to Logans Beach to catch glimpses of giant whales schooling their young ones.

For a more cultural experience, visit the Worn Gundidj Visitor Centre to learn more about Aboriginal reserves and geological history. End your day heading off to Port Fairy and enjoy some seasonal cuisine with fine accommodation to stay the night.

This marks the end of your Great Ocean Road itinerary for 2 days. You could always extend it by travelling further & exploring the hidden gems of Southern Australia. Likewise, head to Adelaide to visit some of the city’s finest attractions & places.

Guided Tours of Great Ocean Road

To bring some popular tours to life, I’ve partnered with GetYourGuide to showcase an amazing collection of activities & guided excursions.

(Disclaimer – For the tours, you book through the given links, I get paid a small commission – at no extra cost to you. These partner programs are a way to run my blogs and to showcase quality content to my readers. I’ve personally ensured to suggest only those tours that are relevant & which will benefit you)

How to Reach Great Ocean Road from Other Cities

Great Ocean Road is easily accessible from Melbourne, but tourists travelling from different Australian cities may find it tricky to drive the route (considering the journey time). However, let us break down this simply to get an idea of the travelling part.

Adelaide to Great Ocean Road

The journey is quite far if you’re travelling from Adelaide to the Great Ocean Road. It approx takes 7+ hours to reach Allansford, Victoria (officially the starting point if travelling from Adelaide). But the best part about this journey – is that you get to visit Southernmost Australia entirely. Take a direct stop at Robe – explore & spend a night – then continue the remainder of your road trip to Allansford. Ideally, I suggest you break down your travelling time to get the required rest to make the most out of your road trip.

Brisbane to Great Ocean Road

Since both the destinations are distance apart – it’s advisable to book direct flights from Brisbane to Melbourne. It roughly takes 2hr 20mins to reach the city – then you could book a rental car or a campervan and drive through to reach Torquay. It’s relatively a much easier option & could save an entire day.

Sydney to Great Ocean Road

You have two options here – book a rental car from Sydney and reach Melbourne (which takes 10hr), or you could book flight tickets to reach Melbourne and then continue your journey towards the Great Ocean Road. Our advice would be to cut down on travelling time – this way, you have ample time to explore locations nearby.

Great Ocean Road Accommodation

Figuring out where to stay on Great Ocean Road? Check our below suggestions which are further categorized into preference and budget. Accommodations along the Great Ocean Road route is in plenty. No matter your budget, you’ll find good stays with affordable rates. Furthermore, we’ve suggested some luxurious stays too. This will help you select which accommodation is best suited for you.

Here’s a list of some preferred accommodation across Great Ocean Road route –

Cottages on Great Oean Road

• Macka’s Farm – starting from AU$180
• Johanna River Farm and Self Contained Cottages – starting from AU$195
• Anchors Port Campbell – starting from AU$300
• Parkwood Cottage – starting from AU$190

Farmstays on Great Ocean Road

• Kangaroobie – starting from AU$33
• Bellevue Farmstay – starting from AU$400
• Fernhouse – starting from AU$130

Backpackers and Hostels

• Great Ocean Road Cottages and Backpackers – starting from AU$150
• Surfside Backpacker Great Ocean Road – starting from AU$30
• Bells Beach Backpackers – starting from AU$28
• Ingenia Holiday Torquay – starting from AU$37
• Apollo Bay Eco YHA – starting from AU$31

FAQS for Great Ocean Road Trip Itinerary

Where does the Great Ocean Road start and finish?
The starting point is Torquay, and the ending point is Allansford.

How many days do you need for Great Ocean Road?
Give yourself a minimum of 3 days to drive the Great Ocean Road route. A three-day self-drive journey, starting from Torquay to 12 Apostles, will be far more sufficient to admire & appreciate the stunning beauty of Southern Victoria.

How long does it take to do the Great Ocean Road from Adelaide?
The Great Ocean Road is approximately a 240km stretch of the wide expansive route, so it can probably take 1-2 days to drive. However, if you’re driving the route from Adelaide to Melbourne, or vice versa, allow yourself a minimum of 6 days to get the most out of your road trip.

Can you do a half-day tour of Great Ocean Road?
Yes, you can, but that’s not what we would recommend. Firstly, you would spend too much travelling to & fro to complete your half-day trip. Secondly, there’s a lot to see and do at Great Ocean Road, and this means you would miss out on attractions/activities along the way and opportunities to explore beaches, rainforests, and places to eat and drink.

Which is the nearby airport to Great Ocean Road?
Avalon Airport is the closest to start your Great Ocean Road drive, and it’s located only 45-minutes away from Melbourne CBD.

Does public transport offer transportation to the Great Ocean Road?
Yes. Take a bus, train or ferry from Melbourne city to reach the Great Ocean Road.

Further Readings & Resources

Australia – 12 Most Stunning Beaches in Australia
Sydney, AU – Sydney Travel Guide – Best Things to Do in Sydney, Australia
Melbourne, AU – Melbourne Travel Guide – Best Things to do in Melbourne City
Alaska – 7 Day Alaska Itinerary: How To Spend A Week in Alaska
California – 10 Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Sedona – Phoenix to Sedona: Top Things to Do + Sedona Itinerary
Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone

Other popular reads –

London Paris Amsterdam – London Paris Amsterdam Itinerary: Epic 10 Days in Europe
London Paris Barcelona – London Paris Barcelona Itinerary: Ultimate 10 Days in Europe
Experiential Europe – 10 Day Europe Trip: Germany, Belgium & France to Ireland

The post The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary for 2 Days appeared first on Travel Realms.