You're Going to Love Sedona
Sedona is known for its beauty and magnificent red-rock setting. With over 4 million people visiting each year, it's one of the most popular destinations in Arizona, second only to the Grand Canyon.
There is always something to do in Sedona, whether it's a music festival, art exhibition or new age event. Visit for annual festivals or enjoy a weekly selection of local events.
The city is a haven for new age practitioners who are drawn to its unique location on four vortices. Whether you are planning a long vacation or a short break, there are lots of terrific reasons to visit Sedona.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Sedona
1. A truly magnificent setting
Amazing rock formations, unique wildlife and fabulous panoramic vistas attract thousands of visitors to Sedona each year. The city is close to the Red Rock State Park and surrounded by the Coconino National Forest - if you experience a sense of deja-vu it's probably because Sedona's stunning red rock backdrop has appeared in over 70 films!
2. Shop for Exclusive Arts & Crafts
Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is a unique complex that is home to over 45 specialty shops and 19 galleries. Created in the image of an authentic Mexican market over 40 years ago, Tlaquepaque is now one of Sedona's best-loved attractions.
3. Hiking in the Great Outdoors
Walking, hiking and mountain biking are popular pursuits - particularly near some of the most distinctive red-rock buttes like Cathedral Rock, Bear Mountain, Bell Rock and Courthouse Rock
4. Terrific Events Throughout the Year
The town hosts several major events and festivals each year including the Sedona Arts Festival, the Sedona Jazz Festival, and the Sedona International Film Festival.
5. A Unique New Age Welcome
Locals are known for their liberal attitude and visitors from around the globe always receive a warm welcome. New age culture is a predominant feature of the city - try alternative therapies and treatments or simply explore new-age philosophies.
When to Visit Sedona
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Sedona has a temperate semi-arid climate with warm to hot summers and mild winters. The city can be very hot in summer with temperatures reaching the mid-90s. Spring and Fall are peak travel seasons in Sedona and visitors enjoy temperatures ranging from 65F to 83F between April and June and September and November. Winter is another great time for a vacation in Sedona. Nights may be cold but festive events and illuminations at Tlaquepaque and at the Los Abrigados Resort ensure that there is still plenty of fun to be had in the city. It occasionally snows in Sedona but skiers and snowboarders can find abundant snow, great facilities and marked slopes at nearby Flagstaff.
How to Get to Sedona
Plane
Owing to the fact Sedona is only served by one small local airport, many visitors fly to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (IATA: PHX). The shuttle bus service from the airport to Sedona takes 3 hours. Many people choose to rent a car - it's just a 90-minute drive from the airport, and you can go directly to your hotel or apartment.
Train
Although there are no trains to Sedona, there are regular Amtrak services to Phoenix from most major cities in the US. Travelers can then board a train from Phoenix to Flagstaff. Arizona Shuttle runs a bus service between Flagstaff and Sedona.
Car
A car is a real advantage for any trip to Sedona, whether you are arriving in Phoenix by plane and intend to rent a car or whether you are driving from another part of the country. Drivers can take Interstate 17 north from Phoenix and then Exit 298 for Sedona-Oak Creek Canyon. It's then just 7 miles on State Road 179 to Oak Creek Village and then another 7 miles from there to Sedona - SR 179 is Arizona's first "All-American Road" and this scenic route is considered an attraction in itself. You can also take the I-17 from Flagstaff or choose Highway 89A - the view is spectacular, but the road's multiple switchbacks, minimal shoulder area, and steep drops require careful driving.
Bus
It is possible to travel to Sedona by bus from many major cities using services provided by national carriers like Greyhound. However, there are likely to be several changes en-route and most buses stop at Phoenix Airport to allow passengers to take the Arizona Shuttle service for the final leg of their journey.
Airports near Sedona
Airlines serving Sedona
Where to stay in popular areas of Sedona
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How to Get Around Sedona
Public Transportation
Sedona isn't a big city but it is fairly spread out. Local shuttle services ferry passengers to Phoenix Airport or Red Rock State Park and most can be boarded at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. There is also a trolly service which is a must for visitors.
Taxi
Taxis are available, but they can prove an expensive way to get around. Many of the best trails can just as easily be reached by car or shuttle bus.
Car
Whether you plan a long or short stay, a car can make a big difference. You can organize trips to iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon or simply see the city at your own pace. Car rental offices can be found at Phoenix Airport as well as Phoenix and Flagstaff.
Where to Eat in Sedona
Dining in Sedona is big news, you'll find restaurants offering hearty family fare as well as nationally acclaimed establishments specializing in international cuisine. Enjoy affordable meals at Picazzo Pizza or push the boat out at Shugrues where you'll love the view from the patio.
Try one of the 101 types of omelet offered by the famous Coffee Pot Restaurant on South West Drive. This friendly, historic establishment is a local institution that has appeared on the Food Network and the Travel Channel. Tuck into sizzling steaks at the Cowboy Club Grille on N Hwy 89A or sample some of the best gourmet hot dogs in Arizona at Simon's Hot Dogs which you'll find inside the Oak Creek Brewery on Yavapai Drive.