Originally Posted by
jms_uk
I was thinking more about a day trip to Gradn Canyon and /or Hoover Dam, but flexibility is always good too

Grand Canyon may be too far for a day-trip considering your time factors. Not 100% sure, but I think the North Rim may be closed seasonally - you should double check (although I could be completely wrong). Hoover Dam could be a decent way to spend a few hours - but I doubt you'll kill more than 3-4 hrs with that (unless you do the tour, which I've never been on).