The Weekender: Short Stay In Sedona, AZ

The Magic Essence of Sedona

Ahh Sedona. What a beautiful place. When I had a short job assignment in Arizona I made sure to do a solo trip in Sedona back in Fall 2022 and it was the perfect time. The first thing you may notice about Sedona are those vivid red mountains and red dirt that surrounds the lush green forests. Sedona is also known for it's strong mystical energy and there are locations labeled as "Vortexes". These vortexes are essentially a spiral of energy in one particular area. People usually go to locations to hike, meditate, and experience the power that you cannot see with your eyes exactly.

Best Time to Visit

If you are looking for refreshing mild weather I recommend fall season September-Early November or Spring April/May season. If you love the winter then Winter season November-February may be for you when Sedona looks like the perfect hallmark Christmas photo. 

Places to Stay: From Budget Friendly to Luxury

Here are a few places I recommend that could appeal to those from a wide range of price preferences. 

Amara Resort and Spa

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Known for its serene and pristine atmosphere and prime location in Sedona, this boutique resort and spa will be the perfect getaway to relax and reset. Check out their infinity pool, lounge by the fire pit, or schedule a massage to unwind. Their premium king rooms feature a balcony where you can enjoy a refreshing beverage as you enjoy the views. Please note: There is a resort fee of $35.00 plus tax for each night stay. The fee includes valet parking, unlimited local and toll-free calls, free wifi, and free use of resort bikes.

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Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock

@krissylamour

This resort has some of the best views of surrounding rock formations such as Bell Rock. This resort also features on-site golf, spa, outdoor pools, and poolside service, private balconies and private fireplaces in each guest room, and energy-based workshops. Bell Rock Proximity: This resort is in close proximity to Bell Rock, one of the most iconic vortex sites about 1.9 mile out and back hike if you do the Bell Rock Loop.

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Uptown Sedona Jordan Suite

@krissylamour

This quaint and cozy property is the perfect space for any season in Sedona. We call it our little Hobbit home away from home. There are 2 properties here, but the Jordan Suite is where we stayed. It features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, living area, kitchen, spacious patio with hot tub in the back. They even made thoughtful touches with yoga mats, robes, and board games. Location Location Location! It is in the center of a lot of restaurants, bars, and activities in Sedona literally a short drive or walk to some places.

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Sedona has some great cuisine options to fit any palate, don't let the small town feel fool you.

Brunchin' Weekends

Pump House Station Urban Eatery and Market

@krissylamour

This is such a cozy and quaint place to dine or have a nice cocktail. It reminds me of a bar that would exist in Harry Potter. I love their seasonal cocktails and their Benedicts for brunch. This place is also located in a plaza surrounded by local shops for some retail therapy.

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Creekside American Bistro

@krissylamour

Let me say that this restaurants menu is so versatile from brunch, cocktails to dinner you will not be disappointed. Their menu changes with the seasons, which is a fun and unique appeal to this place. I wanted to highlight their brunch due to the great variety and beautiful view of Sedona's Red Rocks. if you decide to sit outside. They also have seasonal alcohol infused fruit if you are looking to explore what their adult beverages have to offer.

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Wine & Dine in Sedona

Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

@krissylamour

This restaurant is so romantic and magical. Inspired by butterflies and latin cuisine, This dining experience made me feel like I was royalty. My favorite are the beef empanadas so flavorful, their steak cooked to perfection, and their rainbow trout. If you have a sweet tooth I recommend the prickly pear cheesecake and ask what their seasonal desserts are, During their festive season they have an apple crumb dessert reminds me of an apple pie with ice cream (yum). Their mountain views are unbelievable and the fact that they grow herbs on site ensured to me that they do use fresh and local ingredients to prepare food.

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Cucina Rustica

@krissylamour

Such a romantic experience. If you love Italian food with great dining service I recommend this place, They have this seafood pasta that is absolutely delicious. And you can't go wrong with their classic bruschetta. Make sure you make a reservation to ensure optimal seating.

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The Art of Wine

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These hikes are easy to moderate level hiking locations. Enjoy!

Hiking Spots

Devil's Bridge Trailhead

@krissylamour

Such a great hiking trail moderate difficulty (about 1.8 miles roundtrip) with a great view right on the bridge which is called "Devils Bridge". I suggest going early right around sunrise or on a weekday to get a good parking spot in the lot, as peak times are later in the morning which can also cause long wait times to take photos on the bridge. I have seen people bring dogs on this trail, however use your own discretion based on your pups capabilities.

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Cathedral Rock

@krissylamour

This is a pretty easy hike about 1.3 miles takes about 2 hours to finish depending on your own pace of course. There are some steep parts. This location does require a Red Rock Pass ($5 per day). It is known as one of the most prominent rock formations in Sedona.

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Bell Rock Loop Trail

@krissylamour

This moderate loop trail is about 2 miles. The views are amazing and the trail is pretty wide and mostly flat. I recommend getting to the trailhead early before 8AM to ensure good parking and bring plenty of water and possibly hat or umbrella to shade from the sun during peak hours. A Red Rock Pass is required which costs around $5 per day.

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Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

@krissylamour

This peace park is such a sacred gem! They have some easy hiking trails throughout and in the middle portion there is this beautiful temple that you can sit or walk in front of the temple to pray, meditate or just admire. Overall, this park is very peaceful and relaxing. I always feel a sense of calmness and reset when I come here. There are prayer flags through out the park. I love to donate an offering to the temple. The park is free, but donations are always accepted. This is great stop on your way in or out of town. I usually make it a tradition as my last stop before I hit the road back home to Phoenix. Leashed dogs are allowed. They are open from sunrise to dusk.

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Slide Rock Park: Natural Water Slide

Slide Rock State Park

@krissylamour

Sedona has this natural water slide that is loads of fun! I HIGHLY recommend investing in water shoes, as the ground at the slides can be very slippery and potentially dangerous. If you bring children keep an eye on them for safety due tot he slippery nature and some areas having deeper depth of water. You can bring your own food, snacks, and drinks so this can be a full day of fun. They have a market with items and snacks as well. Slide Rock also hosts various short trails along the creek and apple picking (when the season permits). Cost is $20 per vehicle and drop offs are not allowed. There are no restorations offered, so space is first come first served. Annual passes ranges from $75-$200. Check their website for more details.

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Adventure 

Pink Jeep Tours

@krissylamour

If you are new to Sedona and want to explore with some guidance and adventures booking the Pink Jeep Tours is a great way to experience all of the above. They have a variety of tours with experienced local guides from viewing The Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, or local landmarks. Prices vary from child, adult, and private tours. Check out their website fore more details.

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Sedona ATV Rental

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If you are looking to go on a self paced adventure I recommend renting an ATV for some fun rocky terrain.

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Live Music 

Redwall Lounge

@krissylamour

This cozy lounge has live music every Thursday and Sunday from 5-8pm. They also have Happy Hour from 2-5pm. Experience the stunning view of Thunder Mountain nestled by the fireplace while the live acoustics whisk you into pure bliss.

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ViewPoint Location

Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout

@krissylamour

If you are looking for an amazing look out point to view Sedona's mystical beauty this is the perfect spot. It is next to Sedona's small airport and there is usually a parking fee of bout $3 to park for the Scenic Lookout. The best time is sunset (golden hour) to catch that last glimpse of sun along the horizon or behind the cascading mountains.

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