Christmas Break - beware the elevation issues in the SW. And the road closures for snow, etc. I was at the Grand Canyon in March - it was cold and there was snow on the ground.
In the US - I think that it would be pretty easy to get a similar experience as the
ABD trips (other than Backstage Magic), provided that you don't mind driving and planning. Some are easier than others. For instance, trips that go into and out of the same airport (Alaska) or other bigger locations where one-way car rentals are not an issue.
My biggest issue with the Arizona/Utah trip is that it isn't enough time for all of the amazing places along the way. Especially, if you like to hike. I'd rather spend the same amount for 2 to 3 times the time and explore it on my own time. Or divide it into a few different trips.
For instance, I've thought about a week (or longer) trip out of Grand Junction - hitting Arches, Canyonlands, Monument Valley, 4 corners, Mese Verde and Canyon of the Gunnison (or whatever that is called).
Then another trip, out of Vegas, to hit the remaining 3 of the Utah Big 5.
Then a trip up from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, Page, Sedona and surrounding areas.
And that doesn't even get you time in New Mexico....
It is truly an amazing part of the country.
We are currently planning a DIY Alaska. We will switching Seward for the time in Denali, but otherwise having a similar trip. Should be about half price.