ROCK OUT
A signature introduction to the Sedona area begins with a Jeep tour through the surrounding red-rock backcountry. Local outfitters guide groups across rugged terrain while providing geological and historical context, an efficient and memorable way to understand the scale and story of the landscape. For a slower pace, Red Rock State Park offers accessible trails with panoramic views, suitable for a range of activity levels. The city’s curated hiking maps and the Sedona Shuttle system make access to trailheads straightforward and organized.
PERUSE
Between excursions, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village provides an easy gathering point. Modeled after a traditional Mexican village, its shaded courtyards, galleries, and cafes make it ideal for scheduled free time within a contained, walkable setting. Uptown Sedona offers a lively, walkable corridor of boutiques and specialty shops that allow groups to explore independently. The Sedona Arts Center adds depth, showcasing work by regional artists and reinforcing the area’s longstanding connection to visual arts.
DINE WITH A VIEW
Sedona’s dining scene complements its setting. Mariposa pairs elevated cuisine with sweeping red-rock views. Mesa Grill, perched atop Airport Mesa, offers similarly striking scenery in a more relaxed environment. For a more intimate culinary experience, Elote Cafe delivers bold Southwestern flavors that reflect the region’s cultural influences. Wine enthusiasts can extend the evening to nearby Verde Valley vineyards such as Page Springs Cellars, D.A. Ranch, or Cove Mesa, where tastings unfold against high desert landscapes. For groups remaining in town, Winery 1912 provides a convenient tasting room in Uptown Sedona.
GET CULTURED
The Sedona International Film Festival, held in late winter and early spring, draws filmmakers and audiences from around the world, adding an energetic cultural layer to the town. In the fall, Tlaquepaque’s Día de los Muertos celebration offers a meaningful cultural gathering marked by art, remembrance, and community.
LEARN MORE
Sedona Tourism Office
scenicsedona.com
Main Image: Red Rock State Park; Credit: City of Scenic Sedona/Elise Giordano
