Drive Red Rock Scenic Byway 179 And 89a
Red Rock Scenic RoadSedona, Arizona 86336
You dont have to spend a fortune to see the grandeur of Sedona on your family vacation. In fact, a short road trip in the area will give you postcard-worthy views of the famed red rock scenery of Sedona.
I suggest that you drive Red Rock Scenic Byway 89A and 179 to get a different perspective of the famous unique landscapes of Arizona. These drives will give you views of famous landmarks, like Snoopy Rock, Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. As a bonus, it will give you a sneak peek into the beauty of Chapel of the Holy Cross.
These drives are perfect for kids of all ages.
Books To Read In Sedona
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Catcher in the Rye One of the quintessential tales of growing up. Follows a young boy from Pennsylvania who runs away to New York in an open act of rebellion.
Gone with the Wind An American classic and an epic about the Civil War and its consequences as told from the perspectives of two Southern lovers.
East of Eden One of Steinbecks masterpieces, considered his magnum opus by many. Explores the relationship between two families in the Salinas Valley in the early 20th Century.
Chill Out At The Seven Sacred Pools
Wedged between the Oak Creek Mountains and Sedonas desert, you can get to the Seven Sacred Pools via a number of scenic hiking routes, with plenty of wildlife and contrasting colors popping up along the way.
Said to radiate energies of calm, peace, and solitude, the mix of red rocks and green juniper is a visual spectacle, with the sound of trickling water making the experience all the more soothing.
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Relax At Slide Rock State Park
Theres so much to do in Slide Rock State Park on State Route 89A, but the most popular attraction is the 80-foot natural water slide that you can slide down. To do this, you climb some red rocks and slide back down on the slippery algae that turns the smooth rock into a natural slide.
Also on site is a swimming hole with several cliffs to jump off and several trails, including Pendley Homestead Trail and Clifftop Nature Trail. Be sure to check the parks historical features, including the informative exhibits and the old Pendley Homestead. Access to the park is $20.00 per vehicle or $5.00 per individual.
Take A Day Trip To Antelope Canyon
Formed by the combined forces of wind and water, the Antelope Canyon is a sight to a nature lovers paradise, its unique orange textures making it a wonderful place for snapping that next jealousy-inducing selfie for the gram.
A wide selection of tour options make the 150-mile journey out to Antelope Canyon from Sedona, often combined with a stop at the iconic Horseshoe Bend.
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Ride In An Iconic Pink Jeep
Teresa Bitler
Chances are, at some point in your travels, youve probably taken a Jeep tour, and if thats the case, you have Don Pratt to thank. Pratt began offering tours of the Sedona area in 1960 using a Jeep he painted pink, and the concept took off. Today, Pink Jeep Tours is the premier Jeep tour operator in the area.
Book the Broken Arrow Tour for a breathtaking ride over rugged terrain, including a steep descent down The Road of No Return. Or, opt for the Ancient Ruins tour to 700-year-old cliff dwellings. Pink Jeep also offers vortex, wildlife, and winery tours, as well as a roundtrip journey to the Grand Canyon.
Greet Giraffes At The Out Of Africa Wildlife Park
One of the most popular attractions in Sedona , Out of Africa Wildlife Park offers a number of different tours and adventures perfect for the whole family.
Here, not only can you spend some quality time in nature, surrounded by diverse wildlife, you can also attend a range of interactive shows, get up close and personal with bears, lions, emus, and giraffes, and learn all about the friendly critters habitat and history.
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Learn About The Sedona Vortices
Sedona is thought to be a place of healing energetic forces. Known as a vortex, these sites are spread throughout the town and its surroundings. Theyre thought to be sacred, swirling centers of energy that have various healing properties.
Whether or not you believe that such a thing could be true, touring the sites is certainly an interesting experience. You can pick up a map detailing their location and information from the Sedona Visitor Center.
Cruise through Sedonas stunning surroundings, learning about the natural landscapes and the story behind the vortices. Youll also likely come across people practicing yoga and meditating at some of the hotspots.
Eat And Drink At Cowboy Club
Lori
Encapsulating the spirit of a classic Wild West tavern, Cowboy Club offers an authentic Arizonian dining experience. The restaurant was originally the towns local tavern and holds on tightly to its roots.
Here, youll find delicious high desert cuisine, including some quirky favorites. Amongst the tastiest locally-inspired dishes are the Cactus Fries with prickly pear sauce and the North American Bison Burger. We also recommend ordering a few rounds of local beer. It was the towns tavern after all!
Its a Western-themed wonderland for those who are interested in immersing themselves in classic cowboy culture while enjoying a meal and a drink.
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Top Things To Do In Sedona Arizona
One of the many things that we love about Sedona is that it has the perfect mixture of outdoor adventure, interesting history, and iconic landscapes. All of which are spread out throughout the region so it is a good idea to understand how the area is laid out so you can plan the best itinerary and get the most out of your time in Sedona.
Take A Day To Find Your Zen
The Verde Valley is home to some incredible spiritual centers and retreats like the Sedona Dahn Yoga Center or Sedona Soul Adventures where guests can sign up for workshops on various healing arts, from yoga to meditation, psychic readings, and healing therapies.
With no shortage of spiritual journeys in the area , a day of zen is never too far away.
Hot tip: book online for the best prices.
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Things To Do In Sedona Arizona: Creekside Sedona
Creekside Sedona is an American bistro-style restaurant with two patios and a charming, well-lit dining room. Nearby, a picturesque creek runs through the magnificent Oak Creek Canyon, providing guests with a spectacular vista. The view is only matched by Chef Mercer Mohrs delicious fare. He sources his ingredients locally, using organic produce and products whenever possible.
The menu changes weekly, but popular signature dishes are always available. Most of the fare is comfort food that has been infused with the Chef Mohrs personal touches. Breakfasts at Creekside are also legendary. You can also enjoy one of their special cocktails on a separate patio by the creek.
Creekside Plaza, 251 Arizona 179 B7, Sedona, Arizona, Phone: 928-282-1705
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Start Planning Your Trip To Sedona
There are all kinds of great stuff to do in Sedona, Arizona.
Its one of the coolest places in the southwest, with tourist attractions courtesy of both nature and ingenuity of planners.
If youre looking for rewarding activities and wanting to see one of the most beautiful places in the US, you should come to Sedona, Arizona.
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Take A Dip At The Grasshopper Point Swimming & Picnic Area
A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, the Grasshopper Point Swimming & Picnic Area offers a peaceful place to cool off on those hotter-than-hot summer days.
This inviting swimming hole is located just south of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon so if youre keen on tackling some hiking trails afterwards , this is your go-to spot.
Shop For Keepsakes At Tlaquepaque
Inspired by the Tlaquepaque shopping district on Guadalajara’s outskirts, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village resembles a Mexican village with Spanish colonial architecture, stone-paved plazas, and sycamore trees overhead. Come to soak in the atmosphere or to look for the perfect gift. The village has more than 50 boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops, selling everything from gourmet food to handmade Christmas decorations. When you need a break, dine in one of the villages five restaurants, such as the renowned Oak Creek Brewery & Grill.
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Best Things To Do In Sedona
Just a two-hour drive from Phoenix, the 19-square-mile city of Sedona is surrounded by scenic red rock formations and nearly 2 million acres of national forest. On a visit, you can immerse yourself in outdoor adventures like off-roading, browse art galleries, kick back at a resort, and so much more. Sedona also makes a great base for exploring the greater Verde Valley, including Arizonas northernmost wine region.
Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure
Bring your whole family on exciting adventures by vintage train aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad that takes you through 110 years of history.
This 4-hour round-trip train ride through Arizonas desert guarantees an unparalleled experience spiced up with the phenomenal scenery of Sedonas wilderness.
Gliding along the scenic Verde River on a vintage train car, open-air platform car, or exclusive caboose will take you to places inaccessible without the train and introduce you to the regions natural and cultural treasures.
Each option has large panoramic windows so you can marvel at breathtaking views of Verde Valley, surrounding unspoiled views of Arizonas wildlife, and dramatic geology from the comfort of your cozy living-room-style seating.
You will pass through a century-old, 734-foot tunnel that will treat you to otherworldly scenery of Sinagua cliff dwellings, high-desert flora and fauna, Verde Canyon, and historic mining sites along the way.
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Is Sedona Worth Seeing
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After reading this post, we are sure you can answer the question yourself! As one of our absolute favorite places in the United States, we would come back in a heartbeat.
Where else can you find such a high concentration of exciting adventures and cultural and spiritual experiences? You can easily spend the morning hiking one of the extraordinary Arizona Sedona hikes, relax at one of the Parks in the afternoon, stroll around Uptown Sedona or Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village in the evening, and end your day watching the stars. Did you already figure out what to do in Sedona AZ first?
We spent 4.5 days in Sedona and that wasnt nearly enough for us. There are simply so many things you must do in Sedona! When you visit this incredible place, make sure to have enough time for all the activities from our best things to do Sedona list.
What are your favorite things to do in Sedona AZ? How many hikes did you explore in the red rocks?
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Explore Sedona’s Unique Attractions And Natural Beauty
Whether seen from the back of a horse following trails forged by Western heroes of the Silver Screen, or from the unique vantage point of a hot-air balloon or bright red bi-plane, without question the awesome beauty of Sedonas Red Rocks continues to be the greatest attraction of this incredible area. Man has made his contributions to Sedonas splendor, as well. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, designed by a disciple of Frank Lloyd Wright, sits amongst the Red Rocks, 200 feet above the valley floor. A charming replica of a Mexican village enchants the visitor with tree-shaded cobblestone walkways lined by elegant and distinctive shops. These are only some of the attractions and entertainment in Sedona.
Sedona is truly a perfect jumping-off spot for many those who wish to visit some of the other wonders of North-Central Arizona. The Grand Canyon is only 110 miles north, and the former ghost town of Jerome is nearby as well. Walnut Canyon, Meteor and Sunset Craters and Montezumas Castle and Well are all just a short drive away. Group and custom tours are available for those who wish a guided experience.
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Sedona Outback Jeep Adventure
Explore Sedona off the beaten path with Sedona Outback Jeep Adventures. This is the perfect option if you are traveling with your family, as it is not too rough but still covers the key areas of the red rock scenery.
The departure point is in Uptown Sedona, and the tour is limited to no more than 10 people.
The local driver or the guide will help you learn more about the areas history, discover Arizonas geology, and marvel at diverse flora and fauna.
Lifetime memories are guaranteed with this stunning tour as the Jeep passes along the base of the rock formations allowing you to take in magnificent views of Thunder Mountain, Cathedral Rock, Bear Mountain, and other sites.
Free And Cheap Things To Do In Sedona
Exploring sedona for free. First up, is it even possible? Secondly, what is there to do? Make the most of your visit with these free sedona attractions, from museums and art galleries to sights, parks and gardens.From fantastic museum collections and stunning art to gorgeous parks and gardens, there are some fantastic free attractions to discover in sedona. Here are some of the best.
If youve visited sedona before, or are planning to in the future, then you may already know just how pricey sedona can be. But there are plenty of places to explore without spending any money at all. In fact, some of the best free things to do in sedona may already be on your sedona bucket list!
We love extravagant pop-ups as much as the next person but if your bank account is feeling the pinch, Secret sedona is here to lend a hand. Weve put together an all-singing, all-dancing roundup of free things to do in sedona , and its a humdinger of a list .
Theres no doubt that sedona is one of the most expensive cities in the world to visit hence why this free things to do in sedona guide is going to be your ally when you visit sedona.
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Do You Need Travel Insurance
Dont forget to sort your travel insurance! Weve put together a roundup of Travel Insurance for backpackers check it out here, or if youre low on time, get a quote from World Nomads, our favorite travel insurance provider.
Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and youre on your way!
Explore Sinagua Ruins And Petroglyphs
The Sinagua people lived in the Sedona area from roughly 1150 to 1400 A.D., and although no one knows exactly why they left, their ruins and petroglyphs dot the landscape. You can visit the largest cliff dwellings in the region at Palatki Heritage Site, tour more ruins at Honanki Heritage Site, and see petroglyphs at V Bar V Heritage Site.
All three sites are managed by the U.S. Forest Service and require a Red Rock Pass, purchased from an onsite vending machine, to visit. Uncomfortable navigating the forest roads? Several Sedona tour companies offer guides to the sites.
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Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
A uniquely Sedona place is undoubtedly Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. Its name, which means the best of everything, was opened in the 1970s by Abe Miller, who wanted to curate an homage to Old Mexico. Now over 45 specialty shops and art galleries reside here, with an equally wide range of offerings.
In honor of Millers intention for the location to celebrate Mexican heritage, there are celebrations throughout the year. These events honor times important to Mexico in the past and present.
Here you will find nine eateries, 15 galleries, six jewelers, and just shy of two dozen specialty shops. One of those shops, Feliz Navidad, celebrates Christmas all year round, while Alt Books and Records curates a collection of unique books and vinyl records for sale. Youd be hard-pressed to find anything like Tlaquepaque anywhere else in Sedona, let alone the rest of Arizona or the country.
Go Shopping At Tlaquepaque Arts And Crafts Village
In the ancient Aztec language of Nahuatl, Tlaquepaque means the best of everything, and thats what youll find at the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. This outdoor market has more than 40 galleries, shops, and eateries.
As you walk the cobblestone paths, youll find handcrafted jewelry, crafts, clothing, and unique gifts. Various events take place throughout the year including special galleries and Cinco de Mayo Celebrations.
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