Time flies by quicker each year, and when summer arrives, it seems to move even faster. And every year you have the best of intentions, stating that this will be the year when you take that magical vacation to Sedona, the one you have been dreaming about for years, so we at Sedona.Org are wondering, what are you waiting for? It’s not too late to take one last summer vacation, you still have a few weeks until that first school bell rings, and this guide to taking a back-to-school vacation in Sedona will help you fill every minute with memories you will never want to forget.
Find Peace at Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, 2650 Pueblo Drive
This Buddhist park, surrounded by red rocks is designed to bring visitors peace and serenity, with the Amitabha Stupa serving as its centerpiece. Offering the opportunity to open your children’s eyes to the beauty of the Buddhist religion, this is a slightly different adventure than what you may expect to enjoy during your Arizona travels, but it is one that will provide a unique shine to all that you do while you’re here.
Take a Road Trip for a Back-to-School Vacation in Sedona
A road trip in the middle of vacation can be fun, especially as the small towns that surround our home town offer so much to explore. Camp Verde is home to Montezuma Castle Monument, offering a peek into the history of the Sinagua people who once resided in these clifftop dwellings. Once a ghost town but now serving as an artist’s colony of such, the history of Jerome is as compelling as the beauty of its landscape. (Be sure to enjoy a meal at the Haunted Hamburger, where the burgers are thick and juicy, the views are stunning, and the spirits are known to be active.) And although we usually suggest road trips that are within an hour’s drive of your Sedona sanctuary, a visit to Williams and a drive through Bearizona is definitely going to be one of your favorite adventures, even with the hour and thirteen minute drive. Goldie’s Route 66 Diner located at 425 E Route 66 offers an all-American dining experience that should not be missed.
Cooling Down at Slide Rock State Park
Although nights can be cooler as we get closer to fall, the days will still dawn clear, warm, and sunny and sliding down the only natural waterslide is the perfect way to stay cool. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy under the canopy of trees that surround the cold waters, experience the joy of sliding down a nearly 80 feet long, and soak in the history of the area as you do; this region was once an apple orchard and there are still almost 300 historic trees still standing.
Savor an Authentic Taste of Sedona
Our favorite vacation memories often involve the meals we devoured during our explorations and Sedona is famed for being a foodie paradise. Start your mornings out with a breakfast at the Red Rock Café, known for its Cowboy Benedict made with biscuits, gravy, and sausage patties and if you don’t visit the Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits can you actually consider that you have really experienced all that makes Sedona special? And because every special occasion deserves a special occasion meal, we suggest that the fine dining options at Cress on Oak Creek will show off the sophisticated side of Sedona, offering Creekside tables and a three course Chef’s Tasting Menu with wine pairings that enhance the flavor of every dish.
Explore the Vortexes
Sedona offers a mystical charm that is evidenced in the four vortexes that can be found in the area. Located at Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Cathedral Rock, each spot offers energy that either flows upward into the heavens or spirals down into the earth, and visitors often feel as if the energy experienced touches their souls. It will probably still be pretty warm during your back to school vacation, so be sure to explore these vortexes in the morning hours while the temperatures are still tolerable. Breakfast at the Mesa Grill Sedona, located at the start of the trail that leads to Airport Mesa vortex, may be the ideal way to start your hike, ensuring that you can get in and out before the heat of the day hits and enjoy an excellent meal as well.
Comfortable Adventures with Sedona.Org
The most comfortable adventures may be the ones you enjoy in our luxurious Sedona sanctuaries. Offering amenities that often include crystal-clear pools, game rooms furnished with pool tables or video games, and state of the art televisions with pictures so clear it will feel as if you are a part of the action on the screen, our homes are designed to be an integral part of your vacation experience. Reserve your favorite escape today!
There’s a week set aside in March honoring procrastinators, but we at Sedona.Org offer other ways to honor the people who often put off things until the last minute, especially when that thing you are delaying is a Sedona vacation. There are a million reasons you may have waited to plan this getaway on short notice and there are many more reasons why your first action should be to check out our Arizona accommodations, the details of which we will get into further down this page. Our houses become homes when you and your family reside within and planning a stay with us will be the best decision you make this year, whether you have been planning for months or you are just getting started today!
No Worries, No Judgment
If you are a constant procrastinator, you are probably used to being judged for your on-the-fly lifestyle, and you may often suffer the consequences such as missing out on upcoming events or paying more. But when you wait until the last minute to plan your Sedona getaway, it is possible that you will actually get rewarded. Our goal is to make sure all our homes are rented, and to that end, there may actually be discounts offered, enticing procrastinators to make Sedona their vacation destination and Sedona.Org their vacation accommodations. Helping our guests save money helps us accomplish our goals and the way we see it, it leads to a win-win situation.
No Sacrifices in Comfort, Style, or Luxury
Everyone has been in the situation of having to rent a hotel room at the last minute, being forced to accept what is left over and those rooms are rarely their best ones. Some offering views of the dumpsters, others located near ice machines or elevators, they do in a pinch, but are definitely not something you would choose to stay in if something else was available. With our Sedona escapes however, every property is our best property, there are no bad locations and there are definitely no bad views, ensuring that your stay will be comfortable, luxurious, and everything you dreamed a vacation property could be. Spacious, bright, warm, and welcoming, your last minute vacation to Sedona will offer a lot of things, but not a single sacrifice will need to be made.
Booking Direct Offers Another Way to Save
Now this next tip is a good one whether you have been planning for months or you just booked your trip yesterday: We invite you to visit our Sedona.Org website directly to find your dream vacation home. The well-known vacation rental sites don’t just charge those who are renting from them, they also charge the companies that post their rentals on their site, and because no one wants to pay those extra fees, we offer the same properties on our page for a lower cost. Call it a bribe, call it good business sense, but if we can save money we would love to share our good will with our favorite people, the guests who choose our homes for their vacation escapes.
Sedona Adventures
Unlike a trip to New York, where a last-minute arrival can mean you won’t get tickets to the best show in town, our casual vibe and laidback attitude ensures that you won’t miss out on a single adventure. And because you planned this trip at the last minute, you may not know all there is to do in town, so we have listed a few of the top tourist activities below, helping you fil in the blank spaces on your vacation itinerary.
Take a Pottery Class at Sedona Arts Center, 15 Art Barn Road
Souvenir shopping is guaranteed to be a part of your vacation experience, but when you want something unique, why not consider making something that will forever remind you of the fantastic adventures you had during your stay? The Sedona Arts Center offers a variety of classes, including pottery, painting, and cold wax painting, and the creations you make will surely bring you joy. Also serving as an art gallery, be sure to check out the works of other artists, maybe finding that masterpiece you have been looking for to hang on the wall behind your desk at work!
Sample an Arizona Wine at Winery 1912, 320 AZ 89A #3
Arizona wines are beginning to give Napa Valley wines a run for their money and Winery 1912 offers examples of the best sips in the state. Featuring grapes grown in Willcox and offering live music on Saturday evenings, this beautiful winery also offers stunning views of the Sedona landscape, appealing to all your senses. A small bites menu will enhance your wine tasting experience and if you find yourself loving the wines and the experience, download a Verde Valley Wine Trail Passport at the site listed here, and extend your adventures to all the wineries in the region.
Test Your Luck at Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W Middle Verde Road in Camp Verde
Camp Verde is a small Arizona town located about 20 miles from Sedona, making it a short drive for anyone who wants to test their lucks at the tables. Gambling is legal in Arizona at the reservations, and although it isn’t as glitzy as the ones in Vegas. Cliff Castle Casino offers shows, buffets, and a gambling experience that will be memorable and fun, without having to plan another trip to Las Vegas, where you would probably spend a whole lot more money.
Naturally Beautiful
The indoor activities listed above will surely keep you engaged and entertained, but a Sedona vacation spent staying inside can’t really be considered an authentic Southwest experience. The beauty of our landscape, the moderate temperatures, and the peace and serenity of our countryside deserves to be explored as well and we have listed a few of our favorite outdoor activities below.
Walk Through History in Uptown Sedona
A walk anywhere in Sedona is destined to be filled with many ooh and ahh moments, but Sedona’s History Walk (more commonly known as a Walk through Time) adds a fascinating educational tone to your outdoor activity. This fascinating walk explores the vast history of the area, offering 22 plaques that explore the area you are exploring in depth, educating enquiring walkers on the age of the red rocks (350 million years), the movies that were filmed here (Sedona was paradise for the Westerns from the golden years of Hollywood), and a peek into the magic that Sedona is famed for. This walk is self-guided, so it can be taken at any time and a map can be found here.
Bird Watching at the Sedona Wetlands Preserve, 7500 AZ-89A
Although our state is more famed for its deserts and mountains than its waterways, Sedona offers a different vibe with the bubbling waters of Oak Creek meandering through and the Sedona Wetlands Preserve. Offering approximately 27 acres of wetland that encompasses six basins, this beautiful area is perfect for watching the birds or other wildlife that make the wetlands their home.
Drop a Line in Oak Creek or Verde River
Sticking with the water theme, fishing in Oak Creek has long been a local tradition, and whether you simply set up “shop” at the part of the creek that is closest to your Sedona.Org sanctuary or travel a little further to the Verde River, your catch of the day will be a delicious addition to your evening meal. Grilling fish for dinner is always a good idea and most of our homes will feature a shiny grill on the back deck, as well as tables for enjoying al fresco meals.
A Taste of Sedona
The best vacations often are the ones with the best dining options, and Sedona is a foodie paradise, offering an authentic taste of the Southwest, the comfort foods that seem to make all your troubles just disappear, and some fine dining options that compare favorably with larger cities. We have listed a few of our favorite restaurants below, but we encourage you to not stop there; if you see a restaurant that looks fascinating and you are hungry, we can pretty much guarantee you will appreciate every bite!
Enjoy Breakfast with a View at Mesa Grill, 1185 Airport Road
Generally, restaurants near airports aren’t known for their exceptional culinary treats, but Mesa Grill is not your ordinary restaurant. Offering both breakfast and brunch, the menu is filled with a blend of all-American favorites and regional tastes that will blow your mind. Breakfast tacos make us happy but if something sweet is more in line with what you have been dreaming about, their Lemon-Ricotta French Toast will haunt your dreams in the best of ways for years to come. And although nothing can top their meals, the views from this restaurant never ceases to amaze and awe.
Lunch Will Be Wonderful at the Hideaway House, 231 AZ-179
Offering an Italian menu filled with delicious pizzas, the Hideaway House perches in the trees, making its patio the most popular spot in the restaurant. Panoramic views will make the meals you enjoy at this spot and be sure to come back for dinner to catch the sunset from the patio, some of the most memorable ones you have ever enjoyed. If you can save room for dessert, we encourage you to do so, as their dessert menu is an extensive one and their Limoncello Berry Mascarpone Cake is worth every extra calory.
Dinners on at Butterfly Burger, 6657 AZ-179 Suite B1
There is a plethora of fine dining restaurants in Sedona, but sometimes all you want is a thick and juicy burger and when that urge arises, Butterfly Burger is the first place we recommend. Closed on Wednesdays, their burgers are divine, their sides are next level wonderful (try the street tots, made with queso-chorizo fundido sauce, Pico de Gallo, and cotija cheese) and their prices are supremely reasonable, ensuring that a meal here will easily fit into most vacation budgets.
Choose Sedona.Org
The homes we offer will enhance your Sedona vacation experience, offering comfort, style, and luxury for everyone who resides within. The list of amenities found in each of our Sedona sanctuaries is a long one including the items we have listed below.
We’ve spent far too many vacations telling ourselves that the places we have stayed at “are just a place to rest our heads,” but Sedona.Org wants to be more. We want you to want to hang out “at home,” napping on comfortable couches, watching television in bed before going to sleep, and lingering at the dinner table for a second helping or to play another game. Sofas will be topped with high-end materials, including butter soft leather and chenille, dining chairs may be cushioned for the comfort of your seat, and linens will be high thread count ones that will help make the transition from wide awake to sound asleep an easy one.
High-speed internet allows hard working travelers to work from our homes in between Arizona adventures, state of the art televisions are often Smart ones, enabling guests to stream their favorite series, and although you won’t want to spend a lot of time doing kitchen chores, high-end dishwashers will help you make short work of clearing up after dinner.
We at Sedona.Org do not subscribe to the belief that less is more, and the fun times you can have inside and out our homes are all the proof you need. Game rooms, fitness centers, even theater rooms may be inside or at the very least a part of the community amenities, and pools, hot tubs, firepits, even the occasional television, tucked away under the eaves of the back porch may be found outside.
Waiting Until the Last Minute Can Be a Good Thing
There’s no need to worry about missing out on anything just because you waited until the last minute to plan your Arizona getaway. Reserve your favorite escape today, and check out our Sedona last-minute deals!
As the days grow longer and the temperatures begin to rise, Sedona returns to its small-town roots, offering shorter lines in restaurants, emptier streets, and hiking trails that are only used in the morning hours, creating a peaceful escape for someone seeking a 4th of July getaway in the red rocks. Unlike the big cities further south, however, once night falls, the temperatures do as well, and your nighttime Sedona Independence Day adventures are destined to be memorable ones, especially when you choose one of our Sedona.Org summer sanctuaries for your holiday hideaway. Offering comfort, luxury, and a Southwestern style filled with color and warmth, there is no better place to come home to after a day of participating in the fun adventures we have listed below!
Sunrise Over the Red Rocks This Sedona Independence Day
Although you won’t want to wake this early every day of your stay, we do recommend that you rise with the sun at least once, and because there are a lot of adventures you will want to squeeze into the holiday, 4th of July is the perfect time to do so! Roll out of bed and step out onto the private patio of your vacation escape, perhaps pulling on a light sweater or robe to keep the chill away (temps will be in the 60s) and then sink into one of the comfortable chairs to watch Mother Nature’s greatest show. Seeing the velvety sky turn from midnight black to gray, before setting the landscape on fire with a cornucopia of reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows, is a sight you will never forget, and you can choose to go back to bed for a couple of more hours of sleep or head over to Miley’s Café for a hearty breakfast.
4th of July Wet Fest, Sedona Community Pool, 12:00 PM- 4:00 PM
It is summer and Arizona, and although our town will be nowhere as hot as Phoenix or Tucson, the annual 4th of July Wet Fest, held at the Sedona Community Pool, is always appreciated and looked forward to every year. Offering music, food trucks, and a chill way to celebrate our nation’s 247th birthday, just remember to reapply your sunscreen so you feel comfortable at the fireworks shows taking place later in the evening!
Fantastic Family 4th of July, Cottonwood Kids Park in Cottonwood, 4:00 PM- 9:30 PM
More than likely the first words out of your children’s mouths when told about your 4th of July vacation in Sedona had something to do with fireworks. Fireworks are loved by everyone, (except maybe our pets, who could be quite happy without the big booms) and although the town of Sedona doesn’t offer any due to being a Dark Sky Community, it doesn’t mean you have to skip the best part of the holiday. The Fantastic Family 4th of July held in nearby Cottonwood at the Cottonwood Kids Park offers everything you could hope for and so much more, including the events and activities listed below.
• Free Food – Surprise! From 4-6 PM the local Walmart of Cottonwood is providing free food, and because the town is all about community collaboration, the food will be cooked by the Knights of Columbus and served by the Kiwanis Club—and enjoyed by all who get to eat the free meal, of course!
• Games, Vendors, and Family Friendly Activities – 9 hours is simply not enough time to truly enjoy all the fun activities that will take place during our favorite all-American holiday, but we at Sedona.Org and all our guests who are planning on attending will definitely give it the old college try, and if we don’t get to finish it all, we will still consider today a fantastic success.
• Fireworks for the Grand Finale, 9:00-(9:30 PM) – There is just something wonderful about the way our children’s eyes shine so bright as they take in the magic of a sky lit up with colorful fireworks. Feeling each explosion in our heart and never losing the joy we take in this simple activity, the oohs, the ahhs, and the “oh mys” will be plentiful, even if you can’t hear them above the noise in the heavens! The show will start off with a patriotic salute performed by the local VFW, a reminder of all the sacrifices our forefathers made to ensure that hundreds of years later, we could be sitting here on a lawn chair in the park as the sky lights up with hundreds of colorful explosions.
Your Sedona.Org Holiday Heaven
The houses and condos we offer become homes when you and your family step inside, offering all the comforts, luxuries, and entertainment options that tired travelers adore. Rent a space with a crystal-clear pool in its backyard and experience one of the cooler summer experiences, that of a nighttime swim. Reserve your favorite Sedona.Org sanctuary today!
As Father’s Day rolls around again, you may already be racking your brain trying to figure out what to get the man who doesn’t need anything because he buys it himself if he does need something, but we at Sedona.org think we have just the gift. Give him the gift of magic, a visit to Sedona and a stay in our holiday hideaways, showing him once and for all that he is a hero in your world that deserves so much more than he is always willing to accept. This guide to a dad’s getaway to paradise will make him feel loved and will affirm your title of gift giver extraordinaire this Father’s Day in Sedona!
Fore the Win
Even as Dad often complains about his day on the links, those acres of green grass, rolling hills, and sand traps are still his most favorite place of all and the beautiful weather in Sedona makes golf a very popular sport. Choose one of our Sedona.org golf course havens and he can spend more of his Arizona vacation on the course and less time commuting. Seven Canyons Golf Club, located at 625 Golf Club Way offers an elevated golf experience, lying in the shadows of the red rocks and providing a beautiful glimpse of the natural beauty of our red rock town.
Time to Eat
Our fully equipped kitchens will allow guests to eat as many, or as few, meals at home, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat dad to a meal out once in a while. The thing about dads, however, is they don’t feel comfortable or at home at the fancy restaurants we often treat our moms to, preferring the casual vibe and the hearty portions often found in local diners. As a matter of fact, your dad probably has his favorite seat at the diner in your hometown, popping in for breakfast and hanging out till lunch, solving all the world’s problems from his perch on the stool in front of the counter. And although Sedona is known for its Mexican food, we also have more than our fair share of quaint and cozy diners, including Rascal Modern American Diner & Bar. Located at 2250 W State Route 89A and open 7 days a week from 7 AM until 10 PM, Rascal is actually a chef driven restaurant offering the casual vibe and welcoming ambience of your standard family diner. The menus found at Rascal are a subtle blend of high end cuisine and down home yumminess and every dad will feel at home within its walls.
Finding Peace at the End of a Fishing Pole
As much as dad loves his family, he may love the peace he finds at the end of a fishing pole a tiny bit more and there will be many opportunities for him to slip away from your holiday hideaway and find the quiet he needs. Oak Creek runs through Sedona, providing many beautiful spots to sit with a cooler and a pole and soak in the serenity of the area while catching the night’s dinner, and quite possibly, bringing home enough fish to enjoy more than a few fresh caught meals. If Dad wants to bring the kids or grandkids along for the fun, Sedona’s Rainbow Trout Farm, 3500 N State Route 89A, is always fully stocked and ready to help spread the love for the sport onto the next generation.
Safari Jeep Tours for a Father’s Day in Sedona
The beauty of the landscape and the history of our red rock town deserves to be explored in a more in depth manner and the Safari Jeep Tours company, any of the jeep tour companies, will give dad an even greater appreciation of the gift you have given him. Located at 355 Jordan Road, Safari offers a variety of tours that will take guests into the heart of red rock country, led by knowledgeable guides that know how to make education entertaining. Also offering ATV tours and RTV rentals, the beauty of Sedona is just waiting to be explored in whatever manner will make dad happiest.
At Home Adventures with Sedona.org
Some of his favorite memories of this Arizona adventure will be the ones spent in the warm embrace of our holiday hideaways. Grilling up the trout he caught during his fishing expeditions on Oak Creek, hanging out by the pool with a cold beer in hand, or watching the golfers on the course from the back patio of the home you chose, enjoying the moments off the green as much as he enjoys the ones on. State of the art televisions will make him feel he is sitting behind the dugout of the big game and comfy couches will ensure that he falls asleep before the last crack of the bat happens. Reserve the property you know Dad will love best today!
Planning your annual vacation is an important activity. You want to get the maximum amount of fun out of the adventures you enjoy, you need to ensure that the destination is one that everyone in your travel group wants to visit, and of course, you want to be comfortable while exploring places that may be out of your comfort zone, which is why we think a vacation in Sedona should be the destination you choose! Offering stunning scenery, Western style adventures, and all the comforts of home in our Sedona vacation sanctuaries, when you go west to Sedona, you may never want to return home again, and this guide will help you fill all the moments of your Arizona journey with fun, excitement, and relaxation.
10. Something for Everyone
The problem with a family vacation is that when the youngest ones like something, it is pretty much a sure thing that the oldest will not, but because we are mature and everything, we are required to play along. (Sure, honey, we would love to play another thousand games of Candyland, said no parent ever.) And if the activity in discussion is something we old travelers can’t wait to try, we can also pretty much guarantee that the tinier travelers will not be as generous in their dislike, digging in their toes and loudly proclaiming their disinterest to anyone within earshot! But a Sedona getaway could almost be considered the unicorn of getaways, providing fun for the toddlers, tweens, teens, AND their parents, without being too frenetic, too loud, and too emotionally exhausting. One perfect example, Arizona Safari Jeep Tours, blends off road adventures with fun moments outside the jeep as well, with their Outback Trail providing a Mild, Mild West exploration of the beauty of the Sedona red rocks, good for guests 2 and older.
9. Your Taste Buds Will Thank You
The best vacations generally involve the most memorable of meals, and nowhere is that truer than right here in Sedona. Our town truly is a foodie’s paradise, offering restaurants you will wish you could tuck in your pocket and bring back to your own hometown, starting with the Mexican delights that will introduce you and your family to spice done right. Not every Mexican meal has to be fire in your mouth, if that is something you worry about, and a visit to the Javelina Cantina, located at 671 AZ-179, will be your favorite example. Blending fun, family, and fabulous food to create a menu of perfection, their elevated approach to downhome Mexican food will bring tears of joy to your eyes, especially when you try their Rotisserie Chicken and Goat Cheese Enchiladas!
8. How the West Was Amazing
Not so many years ago, this part of the world was inhabited by rugged cowboys scratching out a living in an environment that wasn’t always easy to survive in. They lived in tiny shacks without air conditioning, (try and imagine that during your summer visit) they tried to grow food in earth that was hard and forbidding, (Slide Rock National Park was once an apple orchard) and their mode of transportation was always horse driven. The covered wagons had no radios, no climate control, and no shocks, but we are thinking that galloping across red rock country on horseback was pretty cool and is also an adventure you too can enjoy with a visit to Wild Western Horseback Adventures, found at 3885 Old Highway 279. Located in nearby Camp Verde and offering a variety of horse rides through the countryside, their moonlight rides available during the full moon are destined to be our honeymooning guests most favorite romantic activity but families traveling with little cowpokes might want to stick to the daylight tours that can last an hour or an hour and a half.
7. The Most Artistic of Towns
All beautiful vacation destinations seem to attract the most talented of artists, but in Sedona, it almost feels as if the entire town is an artist’s colony, something that will be apparent within your first moments within city limits. Driving along Highway 89A, the businesses you will pass will mostly fall into three categories: metaphysical, food related, or artist galleries filled with all the colors of the state. Your white walls at home will come alive with the addition of a painting of the red rocks, your shelves will stand out when you pick up a piece of sculpture to remind you of your Sedona vacation in red rock paradise, and even your gardens will benefit from the addition of a piece of metal artwork; suns are popular, but so are little aluminum geckos and figures of cacti and coyotes.
When you are seeking something unique to bring back to your midwestern home, Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Shopping Village (located at 336 AZ-179) will have everything you ever dreamed of and so much more. Any of the shops and galleries in Sedona will offer wonderful wares, but this village provides the opportunity to explore art of many different mediums, all within in one contained area, and the wall that surrounds the village will give your visit a uniquely Southwestern feel.
6. You Can Shop ‘Til You Drop, Then Shop Some More
Sedona offers so much to so many people, but the one thing that often surprises our guests is the sheer volume of unique shops and boutiques that line the streets. We have already discussed the art galleries, so we will just continue this discussion with a peek at some of what you can expect during your explorations of our hometown. The metaphysical is big in a place where vortexes can be found and all manner of weirdness is accepted, and the shops of Sedona are a reflection of our beliefs.
The Twisted Alchemist (235 N State Route 89A, Unit 3) offers crystals, stones, minerals, and even some fossils, and their handmade jewelry will be an ideal gift for those you love, but it is their psychic readings and healing services that may make you want to take a second look at this wonderful store. Gypsy Jenny’s (321 AZ-89A) offers a bohemian selection of women’s clothing, colorful, unique, and designed to make every woman look her absolute best, and when you want to experience a truly Wild West shopping adventure, be sure to stop by Ol’ Bills Mercantile (333 AZ-89A Suite #4), which will make you feel like you have stepped into the General Store from Gunsmoke.
5. The Best Hikes You Will Ever Take
The hiking trails that meander across Sedona play a big part in the popularity of this region, taking hikers to some of the most beautiful parts of town, and whether you just like to take long walks that are easy and relaxing or you prefer pushing your limits with hikes that offer extreme elevation changes with the reward of panoramic views, your Sedona hikes will be some of the most fulfilling you have ever experienced. The Chapel Trail starts and ends at the Chapel of the Holy Cross, taking about 30+ minutes to complete, and is one hike that will be easy for your children. For the overachievers amongst our guests, the Gibraltar Summit Trail leads hikers to the top of one of Sedona’s highest peaks, offering an elevation gain of over 1600 feet and taking at least four hours to complete the round-trip trek. Obviously, we have only mentioned the extremes here, but we can assure you that whatever hiking skill levels you hold, there will be a trail that suits you just fine.
4. The History of the Region
For the history buffs in our midst, your attraction to our red rock town may lie in the history of the region: the days when the West was still wild and cowboys roamed our streets, the more recent history of all the Western movies that were filmed here, and the way back days when the Sinagua lived in sandstone dwellings carved out of the cliffs. Our history is a rich one, just waiting to be explored by those who love history best, and Sedona Heritage Museum can help you learn everything you want to know, especially about the days when cowboys ran wild and Slide Rock National Park was nothing more than an apple orchard that thrived thanks to waters of Oak Creek. Want to learn more about the Sinagua, that ancient people who disappeared as suddenly as they appeared in our history books? After 400+ years of existence, those ancient people disappeared from the face of our Earth, but they left signs, and you too can walk in their footsteps with a visit to Montezuma Castle State Monument in nearby Camp Verde.
3. Where the Wildlife Roams
The natural beauty of our Sedona landscape is also home to the many different types of wildlife that hail from this region, including mule deer, coyotes, javelina, and a large selection of native birds, but if that kind of wildlife is a little too accessible, there are a couple of places in the area where you can “meet and greet” the animals while staying safely in your comfort zone. Harmony Acres Ranch, found at 13347 Elizabeth Lane in nearby Cornville, offers a sweet little petting farm that your children will love, and parents will love being able to buy fresh produce, jams and jellies, and even meat to take back to their Sedona.Org family escape. Like your animals a little less tame? Out of Africa Wildlife Park (3505 AZ-260 in Camp Verde) was once a little further south of us, located in Fountain Hills in the Phoenix area, but in 2005, the owners moved it to nearby Camp Verde, and now we can’t stay away. Offering everything from American black bears to beautiful striped zebras, you may get up close and personal with more than a few of them thanks to their animal encounters.
2. Those Red Rocks
We’re sure you were wondering when we would finally get around to the star of this town, the red rock formations that draw people from all over the world to our doorstep. For those who enjoy the technical stuff, the red rocks were formed over 300+ million years of changing landscape and erosion, and the red color comes from a layer of iron oxide that permeates the surface of the formations. And although it is pretty fascinating information, these dry facts won’t change your initial impression when you drive into town. Adding an otherworldly charm to the region and offering many opportunities to explore, that beautiful creek that meanders through the area is also why the rocks are shaped the way they are—erosion from its tranquil waters. But when you first stand under Devil’s Bridge, waiting for your turn to climb to the top or you come out of the Coffee Pot Restaurant, noticing that the rock formation the restaurant stands in the shadow of really does resemble a coffee pot, you won’t really care how they came to be formed, you will just be glad they exist and you are here to witness their beauty.
1. The Sedona.Org Sanctuaries That Bring Comfort and Relaxation
The number one reason you may choose Sedona as your next vacation destination, however, may be as simple as having the opportunity to make yourself at home in our Sedona.Org vacation sanctuaries. Comfort reigns supreme in these charming homes and condos, and after a day of Arizona adventures, coming home to your home sweet Sedona vacation home promises to be the highlight of a day filled with wonder and joy. Our properties offer the luxury amenities that hardworking travelers deserve, including game rooms, pools, hot tubs, and theater rooms furnished with leather recliners all pointing at the main attraction, the super-sized movie screen mounted to the wall. Cool nights will feel warmer with fireplaces inside and firepits outside, and only happy dreams are acceptable in our bedroom retreats. Reserve your favorite Sedona sanctuary today and start making your own list of reasons that Sedona has become your favorite vacation destination.
The magic that is Sedona can pale for travelers not used to our moderately extreme summer temperatures, but that is no reason to skip the adventure of a lifetime. Summers are quieter, the crowds are practically nonexistent, and costs are generally lower than they would be during a high season visit, and when you choose Sedona.Org for your seasonal sanctuary, air conditioning and swimming pools can ensure that a vacation in the height of the summer will be as chill as you could ever dream it would be. This guide to how you can beat the heat during your Sedona summer adventures in Red Rock Country will change the way you look at travel forever more.
Hike in the Early Morning Hours
The good news is that on average, our temperatures very rarely exceed 100 by more than a few degrees and the dryness of our heat index will make it feel much cooler. With that being said, however, it is best to keep your hiking adventures to the early morning hours, when the coolness of the night lingers, especially as our night time temps will dip down more than 30 or 40 degrees. As a matter of fact, you might want to dress in wear a jacket when you start your morning hike to Devil’s Bridge, tying it around your waste as the sun rises higher and the mercury follows. And although there are many places you can hike in the world without having to carry more than a water bottle, Sedona is not one of them and a hydration pack is recommended for all hikers; drinking at least 8 to 10 ounces for every mile hiked.
Chill Out at Slide Rock
Slide Rock is an 80-foot natural waterslide carved out of sandstone by the rushing waters of Oak Creek and because the water comes down from the mountain it stays chilly in the summer months ensuring that your fun times will not come to an end before you are ready for them to end. For centuries locals have utilized the cooling properties of this fun swimming hole and if the sun’s rays still get a little intense for you, just dip under the canopy of the trees that surround the creek and feel the relief instantly. Don’t be surprised if the little one’s teeth begin to chatter even as temps rise to the triple digit zone, and make sure to bring a dry towel to wrap around them for extra warmth.
Take an Air Conditioned Tour
If early mornings don’t appeal but you still want to explore the beauty of our red rocks, Red Rock Magic Trolley Tours are exactly what the doctor ordered! Offering large windows that keep the air conditioning in without blocking any of the stunning views, tours start at $22 for an hour escape into the Sedona countryside and the pictures you take are sure to be frame worthy. Red Rock Magic Trolley Tours can be reached by calling (928) 821-6706. Another option for an air-conditioned tour can be found at Sedona Jeep Tours, (928) 382-3264, offering a bus tour they call Sedona-Hi Points Tour, lasting about two hours, and yes, you guessed it, providing a peek into the more popular tourist sites in Sedona.
Feeling Lucky?
n a hot summer day you may want to spend the warmest hours testing your luck at Cliff Castle Casino, located just 30 minutes south of Sedona at 555 Middle Verde Road in Camp Verde and providing a Las Vegas style experience without all the crazy that often takes place in Sin City. In addition to slot machines and gaming tables visitors will also find world class entertainment taking place in their Dragonfly Nightclub, and as you while away the hours playing one-armed bandits and listening to live music, by the time you are ready to get back to your Sedona adventures, the sun will have set and the night air may even feel a bit chilly!
Family Gatherings in Your Sedona.Org Seasonal Sanctuary
Our homes are designed to be an integral part of your vacation experience and when it is time to chill, there’s no place more comfortable to do so. Reserve a home with a private pool and discover the magic of swimming under the stars, learning that a nighttime swim will chase away the deepest seated heat or release your inner child while playing games in our fully equipped game rooms where the air conditioning can be as cool as you need it to be. Enjoy all the comforts of home combined with the modern conveniences travelers crave (including air conditioning) when you choose Sedona.Org for your summer escape. Reserve your favorite home sweet vacation home today!
Chances are you have heard about the town of Sedona and its red rocks, and there is even a chance that at one point in your life you have even considered a vacation in red rock country. We are one of the top vacation destinations in the world, offering breathtaking scenery and a quirky vibe that combines otherworldly mystique and rustic Western charm, but you may not have known that we are a great family vacation spot as well. Today, we at Sedona.Org would like to provide a more complete picture of our hometown, exploring everything that makes a Sedona vacation the vacation destination that could quite possibly change the way you look at vacations forevermore.
Kids Love Us
One of the most difficult things about vacations is trying to find something that your children will love to do. What interests your toddler, for instance, can bore your tween, and embarrass your teens, but Sedona is different. Sedona and the small towns that surround our beautiful red rock community offer an appeal that is appreciated by travelers of all ages, ensuring that everyone will find something that makes them thrilled your family chose Sedona for this vacation experience. The Science Vortex, located at 301 N Willard Street Room 202 in Cottonwood, for example, is a children’s museum offering a variety of interactive exhibits that will excite toddlers and tweens and don’t be surprised, if you happen to have a too cool teen in your life that they will find the experiments and exhibits mildly interesting as well.
Something for the Entire Family
Of course, the Science Vortex, while appealing and fascinating, is not exactly something that will make parents’ hearts skip a beat, but there are things that the entire family will enjoy during their Sedona journey. Slide Rock State Park offers a unique experience for summer visitors: the opportunity to frolic in the frosty waters of Oak Creek while sliding down a waterslide that is 100% natural. No human intervention was needed to create the slippery red rock surface of this waterslide, bringing cooling relief and fun adventures to travelers of all ages. Pack a picnic you made yourself in our fully equipped kitchens or stop by Indian Gardens Café & Market, 3951 N State Route 89A, and grab takeout to enjoy at any of the 15 open-air picnic areas found in the park.
A Tour of Tastes
The best vacations are the ones filled with the flavor of the region we are exploring, and Sedona is known to be a foodie paradise. Offering an authentic taste of the Southwest, travelers can enjoy the Mexican dishes served at the Javelina Cantina, 671 AZ-179, and if you are staying in one of our pet friendly escapes, bring your sweet pooch along for the meal, as this local restaurant isn’t just family friendly, it is pet friendly on the patio as well. Not all vacations are family ones, and if this getaway is a romantic one, couples love the laidback vibe and haute cuisine options found at Elote, 350 Jordan Road. Named after a popular Mexican street food, celeb chef and owner travels south of the border on a regular basis, seeking classic recipes that he can add his own distinctive twist to, and yes, we recommend that you do try the namesake appetizer, elote. And because there is no greater pleasure than a delicious breakfast prepared, served, and cleared away by someone else, we suggest that you add HP Café to your vacation meal bucket list. Located at 269 N State Route 89A and offering a flavorful blend of Mexican and American classics, this sweet café will provide the perfect beginning to a beautiful Arizona day.
Experience the Wild West on Your Terms
Long gone are the days of dirt roads, stagecoach transportation, and streets lined with loosely tied horses attached to hitching posts, but the echoes of those wild and wooly times can still be heard if you listen closely. Sedona was once a movie town, serving as an ideal location for filming Westerns, and between 1923 and 1995, about 50 movies were filmed in red rock country. Make a game out of figuring out which movie was filmed where while you are out and about, and if you don’t remember the movies, plan a movie night binge of Sedona-filmed movies and then start your game the next day. If you want to enjoy an Old West experience, however, Blazin’ M Ranch, found at 1875 Mabery Ranch Road in Cottonwood, offers chuckwagon dinners and shows, a Western town, and mechanical bull riding, taking guests on a wild ride back to the days when cowboys were the good guys and shootouts in the streets were a common occurrence.
An Artist Community
The most beautiful places in the world attract the most talented artists, and a Sedona vacation is no exception. You can’t walk far without witnessing the results of their creative genius, with art galleries appearing far more frequently than fast food restaurants appear in most towns all over the nation. Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art, 561 State Route 179, is Sedona’s largest and most unusual gallery, exhibiting the work of over 100 artists in a gallery that stretches out over 20,000 square feet in size. Zonies Galleria, 215 AZ-89A, has been a Sedona tradition for over 30 years, providing shoppers with the opportunity to pick up a piece of the Southwest to enjoy in their own homes; their décor pieces range from petite to extra grande, so you are sure to find something sized just right to fit in your carryon. And if you don’t want to gallivant all over town, Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, 336 AZ-179, is a walled artists’ “commune” filled with shops exhibiting the best works of a huge selection of local artists.
Outdoor Adventures
Sedona experiences nearly 300 days of sunshine every year, and although summers can get a bit warm, we never reach the temps you may have heard that our southern cities often reach, enabling visitors and locals to get outside and play as often as they like. Open air jeep tours are popular, allowing tourists to enjoy a taste of the red rocks, learning the spots they want to return to and explore more in depth. Hiking is popular in Sedona and the best trails lead hikers to the most popular red rock formations, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Devil’s Bridge. Mountain biking is a thrilling adventure, and if you want to test your skills before hitting the mountain biking trails that traverse the area, Sedona Bike Skills Park, 525 Posse Ground Road, is the perfect place to do so. Fishing in Oak Creek and golfing at world class courses are more outdoor adventures you can enjoy during your unforgettable Arizona vacation in our favorite place on earth.
Our Rich History
While Arizona is a relative newcomer to the United States—we were admitted into the union on February 14 in 1912—our history dates back thousands of years, with the Sinagua people once making this region their home. Evidence of the life they led is apparent all around us, and their cliff dwellings can be viewed in a variety of places, including the Palataki Heritage Site (located closer to Flagstaff), Montezuma Castle National Monument (located in Camp Verde, about 30 minutes outside of Sedona), and our hometown fave, the Honanki Heritage Site, found right here in Sedona. The Honanki Heritage Site, 11450 N Loy Butte Road, showcases the sandstone cliff dwellings these ancient people lived in while also providing a peek into their art in the form of rock art drawings and is an amazing example of the strength and fortitude of the Sinagua while also making us wonder why they disappeared from the landscape as quickly as they appeared. Honanki and Palataki feature the largest cliff dwellings in the area, but all three sites are worthy of visiting.
Mystical Charms
If you have done any research in anticipation of your Sedona journey, you have probably read more than a few articles on the vortexes that can be found here, but do you really know what a vortex is? They are described as “swirling centers of energy” that can help us tap into our hidden selves, aiding in meditation, healing, and self-exploration, and when you visit these sites, you may discover that the energy brings you peace and inspiration to be the better you. It’s not just the red rocks that offer mystical charms, however, as the shops that line the streets of Sedona reflect the magic that surrounds us and can provide psychic readings, crystals that resolve your issues, and healing in ways you never knew you needed. Shops like The Twisted Alchemist (235 N State Route 89A unit 3), Peace Place Gifts & Reiki Center Sedona (355 Jordan Road), and Sacred Elements of Sedona (1456 AZ-179) all offer an interesting peek into the metaphysical world.
The Sedona Landscape
Honestly, we could have used a lot less words to convince you of all the reasons Sedona should be your next vacation destination just by providing you with the three words you see here: the Sedona landscape. Offering magic, color, and a beauty that you just can’t find anywhere else in the world, it is almost impossible to ignore the call of the red rocks. Jutting out of the landscape, the names we call them—Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Coffee Pot, etc.—come from the form they take, and yes, Coffee Pot Rock does resemble an oversized adobe-hued coffee pot, and when you see them for the first time, you will know. This part of Arizona, unlike the arid deserts south of us, is all about color, and the reds of the rocks will seem richer, the green of the trees more verdant, and the blue of our skies will shine bright, bringing joy to all who are lucky enough to be witness the colors that are a feast for the eyes. And because the words we use here can’t paint a complete picture, we encourage you to come check it out for yourself.
The Sanctuaries of Sedona.Org
If you have followed us long enough, you may have noticed that we tend to toss out words like sanctuary and haven to describe our vacation rentals, but there really is no better way to describe them. Walking in for the first time, our guests feel welcomed and at home, and when they catch their first sight of the walls of windows and the views that lie just outside, they also fall madly and passionately in love. Our furnishings will be soft and plush, our modern amenities will be state of the art and a joy to use, and the entertainment options will be plentiful, but it’s those views that will cement the beginning of a love affair with Sedona that we know will last a lifetime. That doesn’t mean, however, that we won’t continue to extoll the virtues of our serene and luxurious escapes, partly because we are so proud and partly because they are designed to be an integral part of your Sedona vacation experience. Located all over Sedona and in the surrounding communities of Cottonwood and Cornville, the list of amenities included will ensure that every moment of your time “at home” will be filled with comfort, fun, and luxury.
Did We Convince You?
Our vacation time is very important to our health and wellbeing, and we at Sedona.Org understand the importance of the rentals we offer. We love our hometown and can’t imagine living anywhere else, and as such, we consider ourselves lucky that we can share it with people from all over the world, hopefully also sharing many reasons as to why Sedona is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the nation. Reserve your favorite escape today and plan to be amazed. This is one place you have to see to believe!
Summer is just around the corner, and we all know what that means: It is time to start planning our summer vacations! It also brings to mind all the things you need to do to prepare for that trip, including choosing your accommodations. During the “dark ages” of vacationing, (days that weren’t all that long ago) it meant visiting travel agencies and hoping that the hotels they recommended matched the glossy brochures they handed us with such enthusiasm. Today, we may do all our searching via the internet, and it isn’t hotels we are searching for—or is it? If you are still making the choice of hotel over vacation rental and your summer getaway is going to be a magical one in Sedona, we at Sedona.Org have created this guide to all the reasons our vacation rentals are so much better than Sedona hotel rooms.
Comfortable and Relaxing
If you have said it once, you may have said it a dozen times or more, but the phrase, “It is just a place to rest my head,” should be permanently banned from your vocabulary! Your entire vacation experience begins and ends at the doorstep of your vacation escape, and if the hours you spend resting and recuperating aren’t comfortable, you will feel the difference. Our beds are designed with the perfect amount of bounce, our sofas and chairs invite you to sink into their depths and forget that your feet are exhausted from all the walking you have been doing, and when you realize that you deserve this comfort, you will never accept anything less ever again!
Stylish and Luxurious Alternatives to Sedona Hotel Rooms
Ok, many high-end hotels can be stylish and even luxurious, but when you experience the magic of a Sedona.Org sanctuary, you will recognize the difference. Designed to make families feel at home, the style won’t make you feel as if you are living in a museum. Prop your feet up on the coffee table, snuggle under that colorful throw, and as you peer around at your surroundings, perhaps feeling envy that the vibrant painting over the fireplace isn’t yours, understand that while our art is not for sale, much of it has been purchased right here in Sedona, and you will probably be able to find something similar (if not exactly the same) during your shopping expeditions.
All the Amenities
Yes, we will agree that many hotels have stepped up their amenity game, offering more than a questionably sanitary pool and hot tub on their premises, but even with their upgrades, they really can’t compare to our Sedona havens of fun and comfort. Standalone homes with large backyards may provide private pools, hot tubs, and the occasional putting green as well as firepits or fireplaces that will be most appreciated on chilly nights. Game rooms, theater rooms, and televisions in the living rooms and all the bedrooms allow the fun to continue inside our homes, and yes, many offer fireplaces for extra warmth and romance. Wine chillers for the wines you purchase during your exploration of the Verde Valley Wine Trail and all the small appliances, including coffee makers, blenders, and toasters, will give you the opportunity to snack and sip well without leaving the boundaries of the abode you chose.
The Space Makes All the Difference
If you have ever shared a single hotel room with parents, siblings, and maybe the family pet, you will appreciate the difference a condo or standalone home makes. Being forced to share a bed with your baby sister who has just graduated from diapers to training pants is a form of torture that should not be forced upon anyone, and when four or more people are sharing a single bathroom, no one is surprised when World War III breaks out amongst the not-so-happy travelers! Every space we offer is designed to give you the space you need to retreat to when the kids are too kid-like, the spouse is being way too spouse-y, and the world seems to be closing in all around you. Head to the master bath, lock the door, and fill a deep tub with hot water made fragrant by the oils you have added, stream your favorite soothing music, and lose yourself in the magic of the book you are reading. You could do this in a hotel room, for sure, but how much would you be inconveniencing the rest of your traveling party?
And Then, There’s the Money You Can Save
Vacations can be costly, and even though a hotel room may be cheaper by the night, when you factor in the costs of being forced to eat out for every meal, we think you will definitely see the light! Our fully equipped kitchens are furnished with gourmet appliances, helping to bring the joy back to your cooking experiences. Reserve your favorite escape today!
Every vacation offers a new and exciting chapter to our autobiographies, filled with the adventures we enjoyed and the memories we made. But a Sedona vacation? Well, we at Sedona.Org believe this is a vacation that deserves its own book, with each chapter detailing all the fun and joy you experienced during your Arizona adventures. And perhaps the best chapter of all will be the one that documents all the meals you devoured while under the spell of the magic of our red rock town and because we want to make sure this is the most well rounded chapter of all, we have compiled this ultimate Sedona dining guide for our guests perusal, offering a full list of the best restaurants in town!
Mornings Filled with Memories
If you are like us, many of your vacation memories are detailed recounting of the meals you enjoyed, many of which will be the morning meals found in the restaurants we have listed below.
The Coffee Pot Restaurant, 2050 W State Route 89A, 6 AM- 2 PM
Every visit to Sedona must include at least one meal from the Coffee Pot Restaurant, resting in the shadows of Coffee Pot rock. Open every day for breakfast and lunch, this very reasonably priced diner offers an extensive menu of breakfast favorites, including the largest selection of omelets in the state—101, to be exact! We can’t stress enough that THIS will be the breakfast you will remember forever and if you want a more concrete memory of your visit to the Coffee Pot, those uniquely shaped mugs in which you are enjoying your coffee? They are handmade and are for sale.
Indian Gardens Café & Market, 3951 N State Route 89A, 8 AM- 4 PM
Secret gardens tucked away in quiet areas are something else you can enjoy during your stay in Sedona and the Indian Gardens Café & Market is the perfect example. Offering a small market at which you can pick up a few things to help stock your Sedona.Org kitchen, it is their café that will make you a fan of farm fresh food and beautiful settings. Each table outside is in its own garden niche, surrounded by low bushes and flowering plants, making you feel as if you are enjoying a private morning (or midday) meal all on your own. The menu is filled with a combination of Southwest favorites (breakfast burritos) and country cooking (biscuits & gravy.)
The Rascal, 2250 W State Route 89A, 7 AM- 10 PM
We had to think long and hard about adding this modern diner to our breakfast list, especially as it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, but because they also offer brunch, so here it is. If you are staying in one of our pet friendly sanctuaries, the pet friendly patio will make this your favorite breakfast spot, and their dedication to your dog’s comfort goes as far as to provide cold-filtered water for every pooch that walks onto the patio. The menu features everything from a morning parfait to a toasted bagel topped with truffled egg salad and smoked salmon, ensuring that everyone in your traveling party will find something that appeals.
Ready for Lunch?
No matter how large the breakfast you just enjoyed may have been, after a morning filled with hiking, shopping, or even hanging out at Slide Rock, you will be ready to enjoy an equally hearty lunch, something all the restaurants below will provide.
Sedona Memories Café, 321 Jordan Road, 10 AM – 2 PM
Speaking of memories, the ones you will make at Sedona Memories Café may feel a bit more urban in nature. This bakery/deli is known for providing sandwiches piled high with your favorite meats, and its menu is a simple one, listing a variety of breads, meats, and cheeses for your dining pleasure. You get to choose the combination that makes you happiest but do yourself a favor and at least consider the special of the day!
Senor Bob’s Burgers, Hot Dogs, & More, 2015 W State Route 89A, 10 AM – 6 PM Most Days
For those days you just want something casual, quick, and delicious, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Senor Bobs! Their menu isn’t fancy but is filled with your favorite lunch foods, some prepared with a unique twist including nacho fries, a Bob-a-loo sandwich made with pork and pickles, and their Senor-an Dog, topped with jalapeños, pico de gallo, refried beans, cilantro aioli, and crumbled bacon! Even better, the cost of this charming spot offering an outdoor patio is so reasonable, you will be able to save a little something extra to put towards all the art and souvenirs you won’t be able to avoid purchasing.
Butterfly Burger, 6657 AZ-179 Suite B1, Open at 11:30 AM
You may not have expected the elevated tastes found at Butterfly Burger, but this chef driven restaurant never fails to surprise. Featuring the culinary creations of Chef Lisa Dahl, every burger offers something unique and extraordinary and after your first bite you may never be satisfied with ordinary burgers ever again. Seriously, try the Butterfly Burger, topped with Manchego Cheese, Peppered Bacon, Guacamole, and Chipotle Aioli. It will change your life, especially when washed down with a boozy burger!
When the Dinner Bell Rings
For our tour of the dinner menus of Sedona’s best restaurants, we are going to break the category down even further, beginning with family friendly restaurants that parents are going to feel comfortable visiting with their sometimes feral children. (We are parents too, we get that even the most well behaved children will have moments in which their behavior is less than stellar!)
Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits, 241 N State Route 89A, 11 AM- 9 PM
Can you really say you were in Sedona if you didn’t visit the Cowboy Club at least once? The Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits offers a long history that is intertwined with the history of Sedona, with its earliest incarnation, the Oak Creek Tavern being the IT spot for celebrities visiting in the 50s and 60s. Today, its menu is a creative one, filled with burgers, entrees, and wild game dishes that will make you remember simpler times. Open every day for lunch and dinner, it doesn’t matter which meal you attend at the Cowboy Club, it just matters that you try it at least once. Its Lil’ Buckeroos menu is designed to appeal to immature palates, but its adult menu is as sophisticated as a fine dining restaurant, without featuring inflated prices. Try the Elk Chops and be swept away!
Moondog’s Pizza and Dinner, 2481 Route 89A, 11 AM-9 PM
Pizza is a meal that everyone can get behind, being the one that ends squabbles and promotes peace, especially when that pizza comes from Moondog’s Pizza and Dinner. Offering a pretty large delivery area, tired travelers can spend an evening at home relaxing and recuperating from the day’s adventures. The restaurant itself is a cheerful space, featuring warm red walls and lots of wood table and chairs, each table offering enough space to hold the largest pizzas for hungry diners. The menu is a large one covering not just pizza, but calzones, burgers, subs, chicken, and pasta, so if for some obscure reason you don’t like pizza, there is sure to be a meal that you will fall in love with.
Maria’s Restaurant & Cantina, 6446 AZ-179 #212, Open Various Hours
We’re surprising ourselves by the realization that until now we haven’t mentioned a single Mexican restaurant. We will be remedying that shortly, with its own category, but for the moment, we want to concentrate on Maria’s Restaurant & Cantina. Offering traditional Mexican fare in casual surroundings, it is impossible to be unhappy when sitting at heavy wood tables with a bowl of chips and salsa in front of you! The menu offers no surprises, filled with spicy and cheesy goodness, just don’t ask us to choose our favorite, because EVERY dish should have its day and depending on our mood, our favorite changes on a daily basis!
Special Occasion Restaurants
Sedona is a magical town and if you are celebrating something special, a meal at these special occasion restaurants will give you something more to celebrate!
Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante, 2321 AZ 89A, 5 PM – 9 or 10 PM
Offering a Tuscan ambiance in the heart of Sedona, Dahl & Di Luca features white tablecloth topped tables, an extensive wine menu, and classic Italian dishes, this special spot was also voted one of the nation’s top romantic restaurants. If you really want to up the romance value, their prixe fixe menu elevates your dining experience.
Elote Café, 350 Jordan Road, Closed Sundays & Mondays, Open 5 PM-9 PM
Local celeb chef Jeff Smedstad has made a career out of traveling the deep south of Mexico and bringing variations of the best meals from those regions back to the US. Elote Café is an award-winning restaurant that has never delivered even a so-so meal, every bite is guaranteed to be your favorite. Named after a popular Mexican street food, (elote is actually on the menu if you want to sample it) the meals are farm to table and locally sourced whenever possible. The Duck Carnitas are something everyone should try, and if you are interested in trying out some of the recipes you may have tried during your meal to remember, Chef Jeff offers a featured recipe on his webpage, allowing guests to try his best work at home.
Che ah Chi, 525 Boynton Canyon Road, Open Various Hours
Serving breakfast and lunch from 6:30 to 3:30, and then closing until 5 PM and opening again for dinner, Che ah Chi also offers live music in the evenings for a dining experience you will love. Mangalista Pork Chops, Braised Elk Osso Bucco, and Venison Mole are just a few of the elevated dining options offered at this restaurant that overlooks the canyon. Sitting in the shadow of the red rocks, be sure to save room for their “Journey of Flavors through Chocolate,” taking a tour through life’s sweetest treat that will make you fall even deeper in love with the candy.
Savoring the Spice
The best part of any vacation is being able to enjoy a taste of the region and in Arizona that cuisine, is, of course, Mexican food. We were raised on quesadillas in a nation where most people are still eating grilled cheese sandwiches and once you sample this delicacy (assuming you haven’t already) we think you will want to make the cuisine of Mexico a regular addition to your own menu at home. Here are a few restaurants to try.
Javelina Cantina, 671 AZ-179, Open at 11 AM Every Day
Offering a dog-friendly patio overlooking the red rocks, the menu of Javelina Cantina is as joyful and welcoming as the restaurant itself. Vegans love this flavorful spot providing an extensive list of vegan and vegetarian dishes and if you can’t figure out which margarita you want to try, order a flight of them, and try them all! Their Chicken Mole Enchiladas are truly special and their Vegetarian’s Choice combo dish is hearty and filling enough that even die-hard carnivores won’t miss the meat.
El Rincon Restaurante Mexicano, 336 AZ-179, 11 AM – 8 PM
Authenticity matters to us in Sedona and the authentic flavors of El Rincon shine through every bite. A Sedona tradition since 1976, this restaurant features a menu that blends Mexican favorites with native Navajo food, presenting a taste that is unique to the region, one that will be your next obsession. Located in the heart of Tlaquepaque Arts Village, the serenity of its surroundings is embedded in the ingredients that make up every meal on the menu, and because there isn’t a meal that isn’t prepared with attention to all the details, we aren’t recommending a single dish, we recommend them all.
Come Home to Sedona.Org
There will be some nights when you want to stay in, feeling the need to rest, relax, and explore the amenities of your Sedona.Org vacation escape, and our fully equipped kitchens will ensure that no one needs to skip a meal! Make your own restaurant quality meals on professional style appliances and bring back the joy in cooking; reserve your favorite escape today, and take this Sedona dining guide with you on your next stay!
Travelers know that when you visit popular attractions or towns, there will be crowds, there will be lines, and often, there will be elevated prices. However, you can still enjoy a vacation to a popular destination by exploring the activities, attractions, and restaurants the locals all know, love, and populate, creating a vacation experience that shines brighter than all others. This insider’s guide to Sedona is one we at Sedona.Org put a lot of time, thought, and research into and will help you fill your vacation hours with fun and excitement while also introducing you to the comforts and luxuries that come standard in all our Sedona sanctuaries.
Day 1: Arizona Adventures Await
First, let us welcome you to Grand Canyon State, home of sunshine, red rocks, and of course, the Grand Canyon, which, coincidentally, is just 113 miles away from your Sedona.Org Arizona abode! On this first full day in town, travelers are sure to be excited to begin their new adventures, but first, breakfast. Your choices are plentiful in Sedona, starting with preparing something in the luxuriously appointed kitchens, filled with high-end appliances and a cheerful vibe. But for those that may have forgotten to stock up on some essential food items upon arrival, a visit to Miley’s Café, 7000 AZ-179, should be your first stop of the day. Offering a flavorful blend of American and Mexican favorites, this café is where the locals go to eat well and savor beautiful mornings on their patio and is open from 6:30 AM until 2 PM Tuesday through Saturday.
A Hike to Remember
With nearly 300 days of sunshine and because the temperatures are quite a bit cooler up north than in the central parts of Arizona, we try to play outside every chance we get, which means we do a LOT of hiking. However, tourists are of like mind, and the most popular trails will get crowded and less serene during the height of tourist season—but don’t let that stop you. The most popular trails do bring you to some of the most beautiful spots in Sedona, (Bell Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and the Fay Canyon Trail, to mention a few) but you may want to check out the Roundabout Trail. Meandering through an isolated section of west Sedona, most travelers haven’t quite discovered this part of paradise yet, giving the hikers that have the feeling of being the only ones in the world. Stretching out about 2 miles in a loop, spring hikers may find themselves in an enchanted garden, as wildflowers bloom profusely after the typically wet winters. Well-marked and easy to find, simply drive West from the Y intersection State Routes 179 & 89A on 89A for about 4.2 miles, turning right on Cultural Park Place.
Secret Adventures
For those who may have grown up in farm country, you already know the joys of picking wild raspberries, blackberries, and the occasional strawberry while roaming the pastures and forests of your hometown. What most people don’t know, however, is the Oak Creek area is one of our favorite places to pick blackberries in the last months of summer. Juicy, ripe, and bursting with flavor, one of our favorite places to pick can be found just north of Slide Rock, near the house with the big letter R on the gate. We aren’t going into the house on this Sedona travel guide, however, but are taking the trail that is to the left of that gate, leading explorers to the creek where the blackberries are the most abundant. Want to enjoy blackberries without all the work of picking them? This is the time of year when many local restaurants offer blackberry pie and cobbler, including Layla’s Bakery Café, located at 3190 W State Route 89A. Also serving a limited lunch menu, it may be the perfect midday break for tired adventurers.
Day 2: So Much More to Explore
Chances are your first evening at home with Sedona.Org consisted of pizza ordered from Hideaway House and an early bedtime after the hike and the blackberry picking. And now that you have a good night’s sleep (Our beds are so comfortable!), it is time to head out again, starting with breakfast at the Coffee Pot Restaurant. Located at 2050 W State Route 89A, if you have followed Sedona.Org for any amount of time, you may have noticed that we recommend this restaurant a LOT! Offering an extensive menu in surroundings that remind us it is the food that is the star of this show, you just can’t beat the downhome goodness of a Coffee Pot Restaurant breakfast, especially when your plate is filled with one of their 101 omelets!
Sedona International Film Festival, February/March
The Sedona International Film Festival celebrates 30 years in February/March 2024, and this year’s celebration promises to be bigger and better than ever before, perhaps giving Sundance a run for its money! This 9-day festival is jam packed with activities and events, including the showing of over 140 films, workshops, competitions, and the possibility of rubbing shoulders with some of your favorite celebrities; we love how the big superstars are discovering the beauty of independent films and Sedona is practically teeming with well-known faces during festival time, making it the perfect activity for travelers who love the magic of movies.
Didn’t Make It in Time for the Film Festival?
It can be sad if the event you really wanted to see just wasn’t in your schedule, but this can also provide the perfect opportunity to drown your sorrows in some local wine! The northern part of Arizona is fast becoming competition for Napa Valley, without all the elevated prices, and Sedona is actually home to one of our favorite wineries, Winery 1912, 320 AZ-89A #3. This local winery is a hotspot for tourists and residents alike, never appearing too busy and providing absolutely stunning views of the red rocks, so be sure to drop in during some of your spare moment and sip your way to serenity. Want to take your sipping and sampling to the next level? Dog-friendly Wine Tours of Sedona, while not a hidden gem, offers a tour of the Verde Valley Wine Trail and lets you bring your most loyal traveling partners along for the ride!
After the Sun Sets
In the summer, temps can become a bit toasty, making us more than ready for the night, and when you are looking for a dining/drinking experience that is strictly local, just point your rental car in the direction of the Sundowner. Located at 37 Navajo Drive, there is nothing fancy about this local’s only establishment, but the food is the stuff dreams are made of. Burgers that are twice the size of your hand, plates of crispy fried chicken, and fish tacos they call appetizers but can be an entire meal for those with smaller appetites. Open from 10 AM until 11 PM Monday through Saturday and 11 AM until 8 PM on Sundays, Sundowner will make your taste buds weep tears of joy.
Day 3: Finding Joy in the Red Rocks
There is nothing we love more than waking up to another sunny day in Sedona, and as you settle into the rhythm of the Southwest, you will find yourself feeling the same way. Day three looms ahead, filled with possibilities, magic, and possibly some more relaxation and fun at home in your Sedona.Org sanctuary. This may be the day you choose to explore the amenities we offer in our sumptuous properties, perhaps lazing around the pool, soaking in the hot tub, or playing pool in the properties that offer game rooms. By now you have probably made your way to the local grocery stores, stocking your shelves with boxes of cereal, your refrigerator with milk, beer, and eggs (the necessities), and if the property you rented offers a wine chiller, we are sure you purchased a few bottles of your favorite during your wine tour. Sleep late on day three and find joy in scrambling eggs on name brand ranges. There’s no rush for you to go anywhere today, and if midafternoon finds you napping on plush sofas in our living rooms, all the better! Today there are no rules, just a plethora of opportunities for relaxing and reveling in the magic that is Sedona and the comforts that are a standard amenity in our Sedona.Org homes.
Ready for a Night Out?
After spending the day relaxing, you may be experiencing a bit of cabin fever, and although Sedona is by no means considered a party town, there are a few spots that you might want to explore. Sound Bites Grill, 101 N State Route 89A, offers live music every night from Wednesday through Sunday. They offer a full menu made with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. (Sorry, the lobster & crab nachos are NOT locally sourced; the closest ocean is hundreds of miles away from us, but it is certainly worth ordering nonetheless!) As with many restaurants and even bars, Sound Bites closes at 9 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy an early evening and perhaps wake up early for the sunrise in the morning.
Something Extra
So far, everything we have mentioned is located in Sedona proper, but what about the fun things you can experience in nearby towns? The Verde Valley Wine Trail, mentioned earlier, takes visitors on a wine tasting tour through outlying towns, all of which may offer something extra to enjoy during your visit. Below we have mentioned some of the top attractions or activities in a few of those towns.
Jerome
This former mining town located just 27+ miles outside of Sedona very nearly disappeared until local artists began to move in, revitalizing the potential ghost town. Today, Jerome features shops and galleries in historic buildings and one of the weirdest things you can see is the Sliding Jail. A key attraction on the Jerome History Tour, the jail has slid over 200 feet since construction in 1905 and although it is merely a concrete ruin, it is fun to imagine the bad guys who may have resided within and who knows? Maybe their spirits are still hanging around!
Camp Verde
The oldest town in the Verde Valley, Campe Verde’s history is clearly apparent, especially when you visit Montezuma Castle National Monument. Home to the ancient Sinagua peoples, the cliff dwellings were once a vital and thriving community, lasting approximately 300 years from AD 1100 through 1425. Located 27 miles from Sedona, the cliff dwellings are fascinating structures that provide an interesting glimpse into those long-ago days.
Clarkdale
Home to the Verde Valley Railroad, Clarkdale is Arizona’s first planned community, created as a company town for the United Verde Copper Company, located just 23 miles away from your Sedona.Org sanctuary. If you do nothing else while visiting Clarkdale, RIDE THAT TRAIN! Offering a stunning tour of the most beautiful parts of the Verde Valley, the railroad offers special events including a Polar Express tour at Christmas that our kids have never missed.
Cornville
Despite the name, no corn has ever been grown in Cornville. The name comes from a misinterpretation of a local family, the Cohns. Home to Harmony Acres Ranch, located at 13437 Elizabeth Lane, the farm breeds, sells, and rehomes farm animals often found in petting zoos. Kids love this place for all the animals which are allowed to be petted and adults love the organic veggies sold here as well as the gourmet jams they make and sell.
Arizona Adventures for Everyone
Every adventure in Arizona will make you wish you never had to leave, especially as you can come home every night to Sedona.Org during your stay. Our homes offer that feeling of family, of welcoming, and spoil all who reside within. Reserve your favorite escape after reading our guide to Sedona today!