VISITING SEDONA

Sedona, Arizona keeps winning national awards and recognition as a prime visitor destination for its stunning beauty, a mecca for artistic expression, a romantic getaway, and a wonderful place to live. That may be due in part to its four mild, sunshine-filled seasons where adventures and activities for the first-time tourist or returning traveler are endless. Every year millions of visitors, whether outdoor enthusiasts, shoppers, or art lovers, put Sedona on their must-see list. Many folks return year after year to renew spiritually or to experience the myriad wellness opportunities and healing modalities Sedona has established. More and more important family reunions take place here. And for couples, Sedona has become well known as a premier wedding destination, and many venue options are available including the intimate Chapel at Tlaquepaque.

The Great Outdoors

With hundreds of trails for hiking and mountain biking throughout Sedona’s outback, there is never a shortage of jaw-dropping vistas. Hiking is one of the fastest growing outdoor segments with over 100 hiking trails available at all levels. The magnificence red rock country with its crimson spires and blaze-orange cliffs at sunset are a photographer’s paradise. If you are looking for high adventure then check out the hot-air ballooning companies, helicopter and bi-plane tours, and white water rafting outfitters. If you want to stay earth-bound and experience water in the high desert check out tubing on the mostly placid Verde River. Fly fishing in beautiful Oak Creek Canyon and camping along the creek is a year-round activity for those who love to get out and experience raw nature. And don’t forget a high-adventure jeep ride in the Sedona outback or a gentler way to see the countryside on horseback.

Arts and Culture

Sedona has a long history as a thriving arts and culture center. Tlaquepaque, known as the Art and Soul of Sedona , is an epicenter of the art and culture scene. With close to 20 world-class galleries and exquisite specialty shops, year round festivals and fiestas, the arts village is bursting with artful creations in every medium and genre. Instrumental in promoting cultural diversity for over 40 years, Tlaquepaque signature events include: Cinco de Mayo, Dia del los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Festival of Trees, Festival of Lights and many gatherings including the celebration Native American dance and culture throughout the year.

When it comes to opportunities to immerse oneself in the arts, Sedona offers dozens of art galleries and a year-round calendar of outstanding events, including art and film festivals, jazz and bluegrass festivals, Chamber music experiences and theater for locals and visitors, to name a few. Sedona has always been a popular getaway, even more so these days. The Sedona International Film Festival (SIFF) draws thousands of independent film lovers locally, regionally and from around the globe every year in early spring. Mary D. Fisher Theater, part of SIFF, has a full schedule of independent films including opera and theater broadcasts from London and New York. The cinematic legacy continues with the Illuminate Film Festival which debuted in 2014 with body-mind-spirit-themed films to rave reviews. Chamber Music Sedona brings world-class musicians to Sedona and sponsors Jazz and Bluegrass festivals. The Sedona Photofest sponsored by Sedona’s oldest arts institution, the Sedona Arts Center, showcases top photographers in hands-on workshops. The list goes on! Check with www.visitsedona.com and online tourism portals to get a full schedule of events and activities.

Hospitality and Dining

Beyond the breathtaking scenery, fabulous galleries, and outstanding cultural events, the Sedona traveler has many hospitality and pampering options including four-star resorts, upscale boutique hotels, charming B&B’s and a perfect spa experience for everyone. Fine restaurants with many culinary choices, fun bistros, breweries and sports bars will satisfy the seasoned traveler and the entire family. For the wine lover the Sedona area and the Verde Valley have emerged as an important wine region as well. Wine tours, tastings, and on-site events have become a must-do activity for the Sedona visitor.

Sedona has endless adventures and family-fun experiences for every age group and interest. Want to know where to eat? Where to shop? Where to stay? Curious about special events? Sedona’s unique history? Or would you like to view a map of our most famous hiking trails? Receive all the information you need from our Experience Sedona Guide. You can order our glossy, magazine-style Experience Sedona Guide.