Authentically fashioned after a traditional Mexican village, Tlaquepaque, meaning the "best of everything," has been a Sedona landmark since the 1970s. Its "vine-covered" stucco walls, cobble-stoned walkways, and magnificent arched entryways give you the feeling that Tlaquepaque has been here for centuries.

With over 50 specialty shops and exclusive art galleries, shopping becomes a joyful revelation of fabulous art treasures and distinctive gifts around every corner.

Tlaquepaque is filled with spectacular "one-of-a-kind" art expressions in every medium from Western and eclectic bronze sculpture, functional and traditional ceramics, breathtaking blown glass creations, contemporary and Southwestern fine art paintings, weavings, decorative arts, architectural décor pieces, and stunning large format photography. Fine contemporary jewelry, designer casual wear in silks, and leathers, and unusual gift items all await the Tlaquepaque visitor.

Tlaquepaque is packed with gems, but here are some must-see spots and standout stops you won’t want to miss:

Art & Galleries

• Rowe Fine Art Gallery – Specializes in Southwestern and wildlife art. Incredible sculptures and paintings by regional artists.

• Renee Taylor Gallery – A sleek, contemporary space with stunning jewelry, glasswork, and sculpture. Modern and mesmerizing.

• Andrea Smith Gallery – Uplifting, spiritual, and colorful art with a peaceful energy. Great for browsing even if you’re not buying.

Food & Drink

• René at Tlaquepaque – Upscale dining with French flair and a beautiful patio. Perfect for a romantic lunch or date-night dinner.

• Secret Garden Café – A hidden gem for breakfast or brunch. Lovely garden seating and healthy options.

• Pump House Urban Eatery – Cozy café with good coffee and snacks, perfect for a mid-shopping break.

Shops & Boutiques

• Esteban’s – Handcrafted ceramics and folk art with Mexican and Southwestern flair. Super colorful and fun.

• Eisenart Innovations – A local glassblowing studio where you can watch the artists work — mesmerizing and educational!

• The Inner Eye – Unique spiritual gifts, crystals, and incense. A little magical, a little mystical.

🛍️ Pro tips:

– Wear comfy shoes — it’s a joy to wander, and you’ll definitely want to explore all the nooks and crannies.

– Many shops offer shipping, which is handy if you fall in love with a large painting or sculpture.

– Don’t skip the back courtyards! Some of the coolest shops and photo ops are tucked away off the main walkways.

– Artisan demos are sometimes going on — if you see a glassblower or painter in action, stop and watch.

– If you're a romantic... Near the footbridge that crosses Oak Creek, you'll find a love locks installation where couples can add a lock as a symbol of their bond. Bring your own or grab one at a nearby shop — it’s a sweet photo op!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.4/5

Hours:

Mon- Thurs • 10 am to 5 pm

Fri-Sun • 10 am to 6 pm

Nestled in the heart of Uptown Sedona, this charming center showcases the work of local and regional artists—from vibrant desert landscapes to handcrafted ceramics and jewelry. Stroll through the gallery, take in the creative energy, or even sign up for a short workshop if you're feeling inspired. It’s a lovely spot to slow down, soak up some culture, and maybe take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.6/5

Hours:

Mon-Sat • 10 am to 5 pm

Sun • 12 am to 5 pm

If Sedona had a greatest hits album, this spot would be on the cover.

Crescent Moon Ranch — located at Red Rock Crossing — is one of the most iconic and peaceful places in all of Sedona. With the majestic Cathedral Rock towering in the distance and Oak Creek flowing gently at your feet, it’s no wonder this is one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest. Whether you’re into picnics, painting, wading in the creek, or just laying under a cottonwood tree with a good book, this place is pure magic.

Wander the shaded paths, lay out by the creek, or stroll over to Buddha Beach, a hidden little spiritual spot known for its tranquil vibe and stacks of meditative stone cairns. Further down the creek, you might stumble upon a natural rock slide — not quite as famous as Slide Rock, but a fun little slippery section of creek bed that adds a splash of excitement.

The golden hour here? Unreal.

This is a tried and true spot that we stumbled onto on one of our last days in AZ, and it ended up being one of our absolute favorites. Pack a swimsuit if you plan to wade or take a dip in the creek!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.5/5

Pro Tips:

– There’s a day-use fee for parking (around $11, bring cash just in case)

– Water shoes = a good idea

– Bring a picnic or snacks — there are shaded tables and grassy areas to hang out

– It’s popular around sunset, so go early for a quieter vibe

– This is a great spot to access Red Rock Crossing Trail, a relatively easy and beautiful walk along the creek with stunning views

– Restrooms are available (but rustic)

– Not much shade on the walk, so wear sunscreen or a hat if you’re venturing farther

📍 Located in Oak Creek Canyon, just north of Sedona

Looking to cool off the desert way? Slide Rock State Park is an iconic Sedona stop where you can literally slide down a famous 80 foot natural rock chute carved by Oak Creek. Yes, it’s cold. Yes, you will scream. Yes, it’s amazing.

Whether you’re here to splash, sunbathe, or just enjoy the stunning scenery, this spot is a refreshing escape from the desert heat. It’s part swimming hole, part natural water park, and part magical oasis. But don’t be fooled by the calm scenery — this place has elevated red rock jumping spots, mini rapids, serene swimming holes, and slippery surprises that make it a full-body experience.

🌞 Tips & Things to Know:

– Go on a hot day; the water is cold!

– Bring lots of water, sunscreen, and snacks (no glass or alcohol, though).

– Restrooms and picnic areas are available on site.

– Water shoes or grippy sandals are a game-changer — the rocks are very slick. Shorts are also recommended for the ladies that want to go for a slide.

– There are no lifeguards, so swim and slide at your own risk.

– Get there EARLY to secure a parking spot — the park is popular, and parking can fill up fast. If the parking lot fills up, there is street parking up the road.

– The walk from the parking lot to the slide rock is about a 10 minute walk.

– There’s a $20 entrance fee (per vehicle), and it’s cash or card.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.4/5

If you're up for a road trip with maximum payoff, head north to Page, Arizona (about 2.5 hours from Sedona). This small town packs a huge scenic punch, with bucket list landmarks like Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and more. Most folks pair the two in one unforgettable day — and for good reason.

Antelope Canyon

This otherworldly slot canyon is famous for its smooth, flowing sandstone walls and beams of light that make it look like you’ve stepped into a dream. Antelope Canyon is located entirely on Navajo land, and it is both a sacred site and a designated Navajo Tribal Park — which means you must be on a guided tour to enter. No exceptions!

There are three main canyons to choose from:

Upper Antelope Canyon

– Easiest walk (flat ground, no stairs), ideal for all ages

– Famous for light beams (especially between 11 AM and 1 PM, mid-March to early October)

– Often the most crowded

– Operated by Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours

Lower Antelope Canyon

– More adventurous: includes stairs and ladders

– Narrower and longer; fewer crowds

– Amazing photo ops, but a bit more physical

– Operated by Ken's Tours and Dixie Ellis' Lower Antelope Canyon Tours

Secret Canyon

– A great alternative for those looking for fewer crowds and a more exclusive vibe

– Accessed via horses or 4x4 vehicles with Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon Tours

– Not as famous, but said to be equally stunning and much more private

– Includes access to Horseshoe Bend Overlook via private route

Horseshoe Bend

Just a 10-minute drive from Antelope Canyon is Horseshoe Bend, a dramatic curve in the Colorado River that you'll definitely recognize from postcards and travel feeds.

Some Highlights & Tips:

– About 1.5 miles round trip walk on a sandy, exposed trail

– No guide required — it's self-guided and open to the public

– $10 parking fee per vehicle (credit card accepted)

– No shade! Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat

– No guardrails in many areas — so step carefully

How to Get There & Tour Options

You can drive to Page yourself or book a guided day tour from Sedona.

From Sedona:

– Pink Jeep Tours offers a full-day trip to Lower Antelope Canyon + Horseshoe Bend with transportation included (great for a no-planning-needed option).

– Book early — these tours often fill up months in advance.

If You Drive Yourself:

– Ken’s Tours and Dixie Ellis' are your go-tos for Lower Antelope Canyon.

– Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours handles Upper Antelope Canyon.

– Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon Tours offers access to Secret Canyon and private Horseshoe Bend overlooks.

📸 Pro Tip: The best lighting for Antelope Canyon is around 11 AM – 1 PM when the sun is directly overhead. These time slots are the first to sell out!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.9/5

🗺️ More Resources

Check out the Official Page, AZ Visitor Guide Flipbook for maps, restaurants, lodging, and even more tour ideas, including Lake Powell, Monument Valley, and Glen Canyon Dam.

Hiking to Cathedral Rock is an essential experience in Sedona. This hike is short and sweet, and with some rock scrambling and jaw-dropping views, it’s tons of fun from start to finish.

Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona. Expect to see other hikers (not much solitude in the busy season). This experience is much more about the climb up Cathedral Rock and the reward of panoramic views.

– Length: 1.2 miles round trip

– Difficulty: Strenuous

– Why it’s amazing: A short but steep and scrambly climb that rewards you with insane panoramic views and a magical “saddle” between the spires at the top.

Pro Tips:

– Not for the faint of heart — there’s some steep slickrock and hands-and-feet climbing involved. This trail also offers limited shade.

– You will need to purchase a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful pass to do this hike.

– Go early or at sunset. Parking is very limited and only available Mon-Wed when the shuttles aren't operating. Thurs-Sun you will have to take a shuttle.

Traveler's Choice Award Winner

Tripadvisor Score: 4.8/5

Devil's Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. Don't let its name fool you: it's one of the most heavenly sights in an area famous for them.

From a trailhead elevation of 4,600 feet, there's a mere 400 foot climb in altitude during this moderately difficult, 1.8-mile roundtrip trek from the trailhead.

The journey to reach the top won't leave you breathless -- but we would never say the same about the views you'll witness when you finally get there. This popular hike has attractions for both casual hikers who lack the desire or the stamina to stray too far from civilization, and the more adventurous outdoors enthusiasts.

– Length: 4.2 miles round trip (if starting from the paved lot; only 1.8 miles if you take an ATV to drive to the trailhead)

– Difficulty: Moderate. There is some scrambling to do at the last 150 feet up or so.

– Vibe: Famous for a reason — it's Sedona’s most Instagrammed hike thanks to that dramatic sandstone arch you can actually walk across (don’t worry, it’s much wider than it looks).

– Why you might love it: Scenic, well-marked, and has that wow-factor payoff.

Pro Tip:

– Heads up: Can be very crowded, especially midday. Parking is limited, and there’s a rough road involved if you try to drive closer (only high-clearance vehicles recommended).

– Go super early for fewer people — and less sun. Or opt for a Pink Jeep tour to skip the parking drama and rough hike-in.

Traveler's Choice Award Winner

Tripadvisor Score: 4.7/5

This is one of the easiest and most popular trails in Sedona, both for hikers and mountain bikes. Almost all the trails in town can boast of great views, and this one is no exception. What makes it extra popular is simply the ease of access. It is well maintained, flat, and easy to navigate (even kid-friendly). Therefore, casual or beginner hikers will love this trail.

More experienced hikers may choose to climb to the top of Bell Rock or at least to the halfway point.

– Length: a little over a mile one

– Choose your own adventure, with Bellrock Climb and Courthouse Butte Loop easily accessed from the Bell Rock trail system

– Difficulty: Easy (though more difficult options are available for your adrenaline-seeking hikers, i.e. the 1.1 mile "Bellrock Climb")

– Why it’s amazing: A flat, beautiful trail that circles around Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. You’re surrounded by epic formations but without the heart palpitations.

Pro Tips:

– Bell Rock Pathway can be accessed from three different parking areas: Little Horse, Courthouse Vista and Bell Rock Vista. All of these are signed Forest Service parking areas off Highway 179.

– A Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required.

– This is also a vortex site — so bring an open mind and maybe a crystal or two.

If you only do one hike in Sedona and want something chill, scenic, and shaded (especially in warmer months), West Fork Trail is the one. It’s less about climbing red rocks and more about strolling through a lush, winding canyon with towering cliffs on either side, a babbling creek, and forest vibes that feel straight out of a fairy tale.

The trail follows the West Fork of Oak Creek through a shaded canyon, crossing the stream 13 times (yes, really — bring shoes that can handle a bit of water!). The beauty shifts with the seasons — golden leaves in fall, wildflowers in spring, cool breezes and towering canyon walls in summer.

Semi-shaded by trees and towering canyon walls make this the perfect Sedona hike to beat the heat.

– Length: About 6.5 miles round trip (go as far as you like and turn around)

– Difficulty: Easy to moderate — mostly flat with lots of creek crossings

– Why it’s amazing: A shaded creekside trail with dozens of stream crossings and canyon walls soaring above you — no cliff edges here.

Pro Tips:

– Go in the fall for peak leaf-peeping or spring for blooming wildflowers.

– Super popular, so go early or on a weekday!

– There is a $12 day-use fee per vehicle (cash or card at the machine). Red Rock parking permits are not valid at West Fork of Oak Creek.

– The first mile is the busiest — the farther you go, the fewer people you'll see.

– Wear shoes that can get wet — you’ll cross the creek many times.

– Restrooms are available at the trailhead.

– Bring snacks, water, and maybe a towel or dry socks just in case!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.7/5

This one's for our guests who enjoy adventures with A/C. Step aboard a vintage train and roll through Arizona’s dramatic high desert and riparian canyons — all from the comfort of your seat (or an open-air car if you're feeling adventurous-ish). The Verde Canyon Railroad is a scenic 4-hour round-trip journey from Clarkdale to the ghost town of Perkinsville and back, winding through red rock canyons, historic tunnels, and the kind of landscapes you’ll swear were CGI. But nope — just Arizona being extra.

Expect towering red rocks, river views, native wildlife, and some Old West vibes — plus champagne or prickly pear margaritas.

Pro Tips:

– Book in advance, especially during peak seasons and weekends.

– There are shaded open-air cars for fresh air and 360°views, but you always have your comfy seat to retreat to for rosé.

– Trains depart from Clarkdale, about 30–40 minutes from Sedona.

– It’s a loop, not a hop-off tour — just vibe and enjoy the ride.

– You can cancel up to 24 hours before your experience begins for a full refund and there's also a "reserve now, pay later option" if you want to snag your spot in advance.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.5/5

Whether you're seeking rugged adventure, Native American history and culture, nature, geology, or panoramic vistas, Pink Jeep Tours has a ride for you.

These iconic, open-air pink jeeps offer guided off-road adventures through the red rocks — from bumpy backroads to breathtaking overlooks.

Popular tours include the Broken Arrow Trail (a wild and scenic ride!), the Scenic Rim, and even half-day excursions to the Grand Canyon. Whether you're a desert explorer or just here for the Insta-worthy views, it’s an unforgettable way to explore the desert.

🌵 Pro tip: Book early — they fill up fast, especially around sunset!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.8/5

Hours:

Sun-Sat • 7 am to 9 pm

Airport Mesa has unbeatable views overlooking Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock, Chimney Rock, and Coffee Pot Rock. The best places to see these well-known rock formations occur in two spots: one that has a short hike, and one that is easily accessible by car. Depending on the amount of energy you have and the type of experience you want, you can visit either spot.

Check out the website linked before for directions to do either. We skipped the hike, stopping here on our way back from Mesa Grill and the view was nothing short of breathtaking.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.5/5

Tucked into the rolling hills along Oak Creek, Page Springs Cellars is a beloved local winery offering estate-grown varietals, sweeping vineyard views, and a relaxed, rustic tasting experience. Sip Syrah or Viognier on the creekside patio, book a guided tour of the vineyard and barrel room, or enjoy small bites while listening to live music on select evenings. Great for lounging, learning, and losing track of time in the best way.

📍 Tip: Reservations recommended on weekends — this one’s a favorite!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.4/5

Hours:

Sun-Wed • 11 am to 6 pm

Thurs-Sat • 11 am to 8 pm

A hidden gem in the Page Springs area, D.A. Ranch feels more like a luxe retreat than a traditional tasting room. With beautiful green grounds, cottonwood trees, a reflective pond, and a historic lodge, this place has serious main-character energy. Their estate-grown wines — including Cabernet Sauvignon and Tannat — are served in a dreamy outdoor setting that makes it perfect for slow sipping, catching golden hour, or even spotting peacocks roaming the grounds.

📍 Pro tip: Open for tastings on select days only — check their schedule before visiting.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.6/5

Hours:

Wed-Sun • 11 am to 6 pm

Mon, Tues • Closed

Just a stone’s throw from Page Springs Cellars, Javelina Leap is a small, family-operated winery known for bold reds and warm hospitality. Their cozy tasting room often features cheese boards and chocolate pairings (yes, please). It’s a great spot to chat with locals or learn about the winemaking process from the team.

📍 Fun fact: You might even catch a glimpse of the javelinas the winery is named after!

Tripadvisor Score: 3.9/5

Hours:

Mon-Sun • 11 am to 6 pm

Located in a historic bank building with stunning red rock views, The Vault Uptown offers a cozy yet elevated dining experience. Their menu features seasonal dishes with a Southwestern twist, along with craft cocktails and an impressive wine list. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back lunch or a chic dinner, this spot is a hidden gem with major ambiance. Outdoor seating available.

This was our favorite dinner spot on our last trip to Sedona!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.2/5

Price: $$ - $$$

Hours:

Mon-Thurs • 11:30 am to 9 pm

Fri-Sun • 11 am to 9 pm

Perched high above the valley with panoramic views of Sedona’s red rocks, Mariposa is a romantic spot for a sunset dinner or celebratory meal. The menu is full of bold, Latin-inspired flavors—think wood-fired steaks, empanadas, and handcrafted cocktails. Reservations and adherence to dress code required (maximum party size of 6). Outdoor seating available.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.4/5

Price: $$$$

Hours:

Mon-Thurs • 11 am to 2 pm; 4:30 pm to 9 pm

Fri-Sat • 11 am to 2 pm; 4:30 pm to 10 pm

Sun • 11:30 am to 2 pm; 4:30 pm to 9 pm

Perched atop Airport Mesa and next to the Sedona Airport, Mesa Grill serves up delicious Southwestern-inspired fare with panoramic red rock views. With breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner options, this spot is great for a casual bite. Dine on the patio and watch planes take off while sipping prickly pear margaritas and enjoying wood-fired dishes. We enjoyed and recommend the fish & chips!

Pro Tips:

– Just down the hill, don’t miss the Airport Mesa Viewpoint — one of the best spots in town to catch golden hour or sunset. Tried and true--we absolutely recommend this one! No hike needed.

– Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating during peak times.

– Located at the top of Airport Road, it offers panoramic views but a steep drive — Gav may or may not have exhausted his entire vocabulary of expletives on the way up. 😅

Tripadvisor Score: 4.2/5

(4.5 for the Airport Mesa Viewpoint)

Price: $$ - $$$

Hours:

Mon-Sun • 7:30 am to 9 pm

A Sedona favorite, Elote Cafe is all about elevated Southwestern cuisine with serious soul. Inspired by the flavors of Mexico, chef Jeff Smedstad’s menu features unforgettable dishes like smoked pork cheeks, elote (grilled corn with spicy goodness), and housemade margaritas. His menu is inspired by his travels through Oaxaca and southern Mexico, making this spot anything but your average taco joint. Reservations are required and accepted up to 60 days in advance. Outdoor seating available.

Pro Tips:

– Reservations are required and available via OpenTable.

– Open only for dinner, Tuesday through Saturday.

– Located next to the Arabella Hotel, with free on-site parking.

– Great for both foodies and those wanting a unique, locally inspired dining experience.

Priceadvisor Score: 4.6/6

Price: $$ - $$$

Hours:

Tues-Sat • 5 am to 9 pm

Mon, Sun • Closed

A stylish yet laid-back eatery perched above Sedona’s red rock vistas, The Hudson is beloved for its upscale comfort food, craft cocktails, and sweeping views from the wraparound deck. Whether you’re craving truffle fries, short ribs, or a crisp salad with a local Arizona wine, this spot delivers both flavor and scenery.

Pro Tips:

– Make a reservation! The Hudson is very popular, especially around sunset. The patio fills up fast.

– Dress is casual — perfect after a day exploring Sedona.

– Try to time your meal just before dusk — the golden hour glow on the rocks is unforgettable.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.6/5

Price: $$ - $$$

Hours:

Mon-Sun • 11:30 am to 9 pm

Nestled in the heart of Sedona is Amara's serene spa escape where a variety of holistic massages, facials, body treatments, and scrubs are available to relax the mind and soothe the body. It’s right on Oak Creek, with easy access to Tlaquepaque and Uptown.

Wind down in one of six private treatment rooms, a sun-splashed manicure/pedicure area, or a relaxation room at this Sedona spa resort. The spa menu leans into local botanicals and seasonal rituals. Consider their signature "Rain Dance Massage" featuring lavender, rosemary, and sage oils; along with an indulgent scalp massage with hot oil hair treatment.

Their facials include custom selections of a beautifully curated organic skincare line that incorporates the best natural, organic ingredients to support the healthiest and most effective skincare.

Appointments are required. Reserve your appointment / View the menu here.

Pro Tips:

– Spa services are open to non-hotel guests — just book early!

– Their lobby and lounge are beautiful — worth stopping by for a cocktail and creek views even if you're not staying there.

– Keep an eye out for seasonal specials on spa packages or treatments.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.6/5

Hours:

Mon-Sun • 9 am - 5 pm

💆‍♀️ A local favorite tucked in West Sedona

This cozy and approachable day spa offers massages, facials, wraps, and energy work. It’s perfect for a girls' afternoon or solo escape.

Enjoy Sedona's New Day Spa's elegant decor, highly trained and licensed international staff and luxurious and health-restoring treatments and spa products. They use refined flower oils and pure aromatherapy and many of their signature body products are handcrafted in Sedona using desert native herbs. This spa even features face products from an all natural, organic skincare line, providing true phenomenal results for your skin.

They offer a unique menu of Desert Nature Body Treatments and Native American inspired Spa Rituals, restorative facials and a full nail service.

Reserve your appointment / View the spa menu here

Tripadvisor Traveler's Choice Award WINNER of Best Day Spa in Sedona for 16 Years!

Tripadvisor Score: 4.8/5

Pro Tips:

– Open to all (not tied to a resort).

– Packages for couples and small groups.

– Massages here are often more affordable than resort spas.

Hours:

Mon-Sat • 9 am - 7 pm

Sun • 11 am - 6 pm

L’Auberge is one of Sedona’s most iconic luxury resorts — known for its dreamy setting nestled along the banks of Oak Creek. Set amidst a serene forest with the soothing sounds of Oak Creek, L’Apothecary Spa is a sanctuary where nature and healing intertwine.

Rooted in Sedona’s rich history of holistic wellness, the spa offers both time-honored treatments and transformative metaphysical experiences, from energy-aligning bodywork to immersive sound healing. The extensive spa menu offers individuals and couples options and you will find services like cupping massages, swedish massages, deep tissue massages, and even creekside massages! Signature therapies incorporate organic botanicals, handcrafted aromatherapy blends, and the restorative power of the natural world, ensuring every service nurtures the mind, body, and spirit.

Reserve your appointment / View the menu here.

Tripadvisor Score: 4.3/5

Part gallery, part quirky roadside treasure trove, Son Silver West is a must-stop for art lovers and curious wanderers alike. Explore a colorful maze of Southwestern art, handcrafted décor, indigenous items, antiques, jewelry, pottery, wind chimes, vintage signs, and all sorts of funky finds. You can easily spend hours wandering through its many vibrant rooms and outdoor spaces.

It’s like walking through a museum—entertaining, educational, and absolutely packed with unique finds you can actually take home. Whether you're shopping or just soaking up the creative chaos, it's an experience that’s pure Sedona charm.

A vortex is believed to be a special spot on the earth where energy is either entering into the earth or projecting out of the earth’s plane. Vortexes (or vortices) are found at sacred sites throughout the world – the Great Pyramid in Egypt, Machu Picchu in Peru, Bali, Stonehenge, Uluru/Ayers Rock in Australia, etc. It is believed that the vortex energy moves in a spiral, moving up or down.

Sedona is believed to have seven main energy vortexes, with four being the most well-known: Airport Mesa, Boynton Canyon, Bell Rock, and Cathedral Rock. Other sites like the Chapel of the Holy Cross and Courthouse Butte are also mentioned as potential vortex locations.

Some say Sedona’s vortex energy is so powerful that you can actually feel it and that it is powerful enough to help people take giant leaps with their spiritual development. The Native Americans believe that spiritual transformation can occur more quickly and easily in Sedona because the veils to other dimensions are thinner here. Whether or not you believe that energy vortexes actually exist, one thing is for certain, there is “something” about Sedona that has made people travel here for something more than just its incredible beauty.

For an unforgettable way to see Sedona, take to the skies at sunrise in a hot air balloon. These early-morning adventures float you above the red rocks, canyons, and desert landscape while the light changes from soft pastels to golden glow.

Flights typically end with a celebratory toast and light breakfast — making for a peaceful, magical start to your day. Whether you're a first-timer or a sky-high romantic, it’s truly bucket-list worthy.

🌄 Pro tip: Dress in layers — early mornings can be chilly, even in the desert!

Quirky, artsy, haunted — and high up on the hill

Just under an hour from Sedona, Jerome is an old mining town turned bohemian escape that clings dramatically to the side of Cleopatra Hill. Once dubbed the "Wickedest Town in the West," it's now home to artists, eccentrics, and a whole lot of ghosts (allegedly).

Wander through spooky-but-fascinating museums, sip wine with a view, explore art galleries tucked into historic buildings, or grab a burger at the haunted Haunted Hamburger. It’s a perfect half-day adventure if you like your history weird, your sidewalks steep, and your small towns full of character.

Pro Tips:

– Wear comfy shoes — the whole town is on a slope.

– Parking can be tricky, especially on weekends, but there are several lots and shuttles.

– Don’t miss the Jerome Historical Society Museum (4.3✬), Jerome State Historic Park (4.4✬) or Gold King Mine Museum (3.8✬)

– Some spots are closed midweek or in the off-season — check hours ahead of time.

– It’s noticeably cooler up there, so it can be a nice break from the desert heat!