A Weekend Itinerary for Monument Valley: Where to Go, What to See, and Where to Stay
Make the Most of Your 2-Day Weekend in Monument Valley Getaway with Scenic Stops, Cultural Experiences, and Local Hospitality
Planning a weekend in Monument Valley? Whether you’re road-tripping or on a quick getaway, this region offers breathtaking scenery, rich Navajo culture, and unforgettable moments.
In Kayenta, AZ—just minutes from Monument Valley—Wetherill Inn is your ideal home base.
Here’s how to enjoy a 2- or 3-day itinerary in Monument Valley that balances exploration, relaxation, and cultural connection.
Day 1: Arrival in Kayenta, Dinner, and Sunset at Monument Valley
Arrive in Kayenta in the early afternoon to settle into your room at Wetherill Inn, where you’ll find cozy accommodations, an indoor pool, and easy access to nearby attractions. Once you’re checked in and refreshed from your travels, it’s time to explore the town and grab a bite to eat.
For dinner, consider a local favorite like Amigo Café for Southwestern-style comfort food or Blue Coffee Pot for Navajo tacos and regional dishes. Afterward, make the short drive to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park to catch a breathtaking desert sunset. Watching the sun dip behind the Mitten Buttes is the perfect way to begin your weekend in Monument Valley.
Day 2: Guided Tour, Cultural Discovery & Local Crafts
Start your day early with a guided tour of Monument Valley. Booking a tour with a local Navajo guide offers access to restricted areas and deepens your understanding of the landscape’s spiritual and historical importance. Highlights include John Ford’s Point, Three Sisters, and the Totem Pole formations.
After your tour, return to Kayenta for a relaxing lunch before diving into the region’s culture. Visit the Code Talkers Exhibit—a tribute to the Navajo Marines whose secret code helped win WWII. This small but powerful display is located inside the Kayenta Burger King and is worth the visit.
In the afternoon, spend time exploring local arts and crafts markets, where you’ll find handmade Navajo jewelry, weavings, pottery, and carvings. The gift shop at Wetherill Inn also carries authentic Native American items, offering a convenient way to take a piece of the culture home with you.
Wrap up your evening with a swim in the inn’s indoor pool to relax before your final day.
Day 3: Optional Hike, Scenic Drive & Departure
If you’re planning a 3-day weekend in Monument Valley, use the final morning for a bit of light adventure. Consider a hike at Navajo National Monument, where you can view ancestral cliff dwellings and take in sweeping canyon vistas. The Sandal Trail is a great option for an easy walk with scenic payoff.
Prefer a leisurely drive? Head to Valley of the Gods or Goosenecks State Park for picture-perfect views and peaceful desert roads. These areas offer the same majestic red rock beauty as Monument Valley, with fewer crowds and plenty of photo opportunities.
As you make your way back, stop by a local café or grab snacks for the road. Be sure to check out of Wetherill Inn with plenty of time to continue your journey—refreshed, inspired, and full of memories.
Make the most of your weekend—book your stay at Wetherill Inn and experience Monument Valley with comfort and ease.
Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, our welcoming team, clean and quiet rooms, and prime location will help you make the most of every moment near one of America’s most awe-inspiring destinations.