City Guide: The Mystical Wonderland of Sedona
Sedona is a mystical wonderland of vortexes, spiritual awakening and towering red rocks. I’ve visited this city many times and it keeps drawing me back. In Sedona, life slows down to take in the moments, appreciate nature and varying energies. Your mind is opened up to new ideas on philosophy, food and culture. This post is a guide to what Sedona has to offer, from hiking to magical wand making.
To Get There.
Fly into Phoenix Airport and rent a car. Drive 2 hours north, or take the airport shuttle to Sedona.
Fly into Flagstaff airport and rent a car to drive nearly an hour south.
Fly into Sedona airport (very small, so this can get pricy).
Tip: Rent a car. It’s best to have a car here because public transportation is not great, walkability is low and ride-sharing drivers for Lyft and Uber are few and far between.
To stay.
Sedona is relatively small, so there really isn’t a bad area to stay in. Here are a few well-rated choices for your stay.
The Wilde Resort and Spa - this beautiful abode features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool and a restaurant
Cozy Cactus Bed and Breakfast - cozy stay with beautiful views all around
Hyatt Residence Club Sedona, Piñon Pointe - great restaurants, luxurious rooms and unparalleled service
To do.
Hiking
Hike Boyton Canyon
Boyton Canyon is filled with trails through the Red Rocks and has many Native American archeological sites to explore like caves with ancient pottery and spiritual significance.
Hike Airport Mesa
This is a gorgeous 3 mile hike to take at sunrise or sunset, when the Red Rocks are basking in the soft glow of the sun.
Hike Bell Rock
The Red Rocks contrast against the bright greenery on the hike up Bell Rock, boasting incredible sweeping views from the top.
Off-roading
Go off-roading in Coconino National Forest
If you’re ready for adventure, rent a UTV and go off-roading through the Coconino Forest, stopping to take in views and see the ancient cliff dwellings and pictographs of the Palatki Heritage Site. Learn more
Go on a Hummer or Pink Jeep Tour
Head out into the Red Rocks to go off-roading and explore the views for a grand adventure.
Book Pink Jeep Tour
Classes
Take a “Make your Own Magic Wand” Class
Local artist Rachel invites you into her studio to create beautiful wands from natural elements in a beautiful setting.
Tip: Click here to get up to $15 off your first Airbnb Experience Booking.
Book Now
Go to a Powerful Shamangelical Breathwork Ceremony
This is an intense experience going through a breath works ceremony to discover yourself and things you may need to release. If you’re ready for a true Sedona transformative experience, attend one of Anahata’s breathworks ceremonies.
Check the Calendar
Take a “Painting Aliens and UFO’s Art Class”
Sedona artist Rachel will guide you through painting techniques to bring your extraterrestrial visions to life in this fun workshop that includes tea and chocolate.
Tip: Click here to get up to $15 off your first Airbnb Experience Booking.
To eat & Drink.
Brunch at Indian Gardens
The natural garden setting and delicious food is perfection. Try the breakfast burritos, avocado toast, or an iced chai, delish!
The Chai Spot
This is a tranquil setting with a variety of flavors. The Chai Spot is the place to go for tea and relaxation. Big plus, 50% of their profits go towards supporting women and children in Pakistan.
To Shop.
Bohemian Dreamer Artist Boutique
Shop for gorgeous art pieces, crystals, tarot cards, pottery and more at this beautiful artists shop that also hosts the previously mentioned art classes. This studio is located in the Hillside Sedona Shopping Center.
Address: 71 Highway 179 E-ST4, Sedona, AZ 86336
Earthbound Trading Company
Shop for bohemian clothing and home decor at this store in downtown Sedona.
Address: 300 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Oak Creek Marketplace
Shop for gifts, do a little wine-tasting, or get yourself some leather boots or a hat at this cute little marketplace in downtown Sedona.
Are you planning a trip soon? These are some of my favorite sites for finding places to stay, book tours, and more:
Booking.com for the best hotel deals
Get Your Guide to book a variety of tours and activities
Expedia for flights, hotels, rental cars and more.
Herschel for nice luggage that’s made to last