City information

Dramatic upheavals and natural forces created incomparable rock formations in memorable fiery hues. Mesmerizing artists and visitors alike, this region has evolved from a rural town to a tourist haven.

     Restaraunts / Bars

Many visitors get energy, rejuvenation and inspiration from Sedona’s vortex points, which are swirling forces that are said to give one a sense of well-being and a special spiritual bond to the area. But others not so inclined may find more tangible fulfillment and inner peace from dining. Fortunately, the restaurants in Sedona are as adept at satisfying your appetite as the Red Rocks are at satiating your soul and psyche. From the time you awaken, you’re privy to a sensational spectrum of dining options.

The Sedona Swiss Restaurant and Cafe will start your day with melt-in-your-mouth European pastries and specialty coffees. You will be so enamored with the baked goods that you will want to return later for authentic Swiss specialties. Add an early “ole!” to your day with a Sonoran breakfast burrito of eggs and Mexican chorizo at Maria’s Restaurant and Cantina. Enjoy an omelet or waffles at the Prime Outlet’s Marketplace Cafe. And the hungry-man-sized breakfasts at the Coffee Pot Restaurant will stoke even the sturdiest morning appetites.

While browsing through the shops of Uptown Sedona, there are plenty of great places to lunch. Oaxaca Restaurante & Cantina provides the perfect perch to watch the world go by on Sedona’s main street. Rosebud’s, diagonally across the street in the Sinagua Plaza, is a Sedona classic. An all-American menu of comfort foods comes with an awe-inspiring panoramic view.

Since hiking, biking and sightseeing are so much a part of the Sedona experience, picnic fare and trail foods are priorities. The area’s delis, sandwich shops and bakeries more than meet the challenge. Stop at Sedona Memories, just off the main drag in Uptown, for the often-voted best sandwiches in town. WenDeli’s and Jumpin’ Jacks, also in the center of the city, provide portable and very palatable choices. On the West Side, Rinzai’s Market specializes organic produce, natural foods and baked goods that are nutritious and delicious. And, in Oak Creek Canyon, pick up a snack on your way to Slide Rock State Park at Garland’s Indian Gardens, a market and gift shop in the historic 1870s Thompson homestead. Be sure to try the organic apple cider, too!

The west side of Sedona is noted for friendly neighborhood cafes and affordable meals. For dining that’s other worldly, there is the Red Planet Diner, replete with eight-foot aliens and a space ship. Order a Jupiter Juice while you wait for your Gemini Double Cheeseburger or EggPlanet Parmigiana. In contrast, the nearby, Spices Restaurant offers a more “Earth-y” atmosphere and comforting, casual cuisine with an Italian accent. Judi’s Restaurant and its sibling, Keiser’s West, are exactly the kind of home-spun, family-run restaurants that you would hope to find on any trip. Judi’s desserts are legendary so be sure you leave room to give them a try. Call it High Desert cuisine, or call it refined ranch food, but you’re sure to enjoy a Southwestern-style meal at the Cowboy Club.

The term “harmonic convergence” takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to Sedona dining. Global cuisines are tastily represented here. Both Sasaki and Takashi will pacify your yen for superb Japanese cuisine in sublimely serene surroundings. Thai Spices serves nutrition-packed, chile-charged plates meant to nourish both your health and happiness. New York-style Italian dishes are the specialty at Pietro’s, and Dahl and DiLuca’s premium handmade pastas are a local favorite. Nobody does Big Apple pizzas like Joey Bistro and get into the spirit of Espa?a at Casa Rincon. If it’s seafood you fancy, set sail for Shugrue’s Hillside Grill. It is regularly voted the area’s finest seafood restaurant.

Those fond of French fare will discover some of the southwest’s best here in Sedona. Rene’s at Tlaquepaque artisan village is the town’s hands-down favorite special occasion restaurant. Its elegant setting and impressive artwork is surpassed only by its exquisite interpretations of French cuisine.

For the ultimate al fresco atmosphere, no Sedona dining destination surpasses the L’Auberge Restaurant and its outdoor terrace. You’ll be lulled by the flow of Oak Creek and pampered with ultra-accommodating service as you partake of their award-winning wines and an exquisitely prepared and presented six-course prix fixe meal. Heartline Cafe, regularly voted Sedona’s most romantic restaurant, has a seductive menu that make it virtually impossible to say no, whether it’s to dessert or a marriage proposal.

Diners with transportation and a culinary sense of adventure will find it worth the trip to Junipine Cafe, in picturesque Oak Creek Canyon, for fresh trout. Or chow down on an authentic chuck wagon-style spread, with live entertainment, at Cottonwood’s Blazin’ M Ranch.

Maybe it’s the cosmic forces in action, but at night, Sedona comes alive with special energy. Canyon Breeze is a prime example. Those in pursuit of kinetic energy will find stimulation in the click-clack of billiard balls at Steaks and Sticks, Los Abrigados’ posh, yet playful “dining and diversions” venue.

At Poco Diablo Resort, sports enthusiasts can keep up to date on scores at Jersey’s Bar & Grill. Or get a taste of Sedona wildlife at West Sedona’s Laughing Coyote. Three nights a week the place features a “Howling Hour,” the local version of Happy Hour, from 10pm until last call.

A steaming espresso and a fresh-from-the-oven pastry as the sun rises on another perfect day…a Buffalo burger savored on an Uptown patio while the noonday pedestrians pass by…the lip-puckering lime and salty sting of a well-made Margarita at a classic cowboy bar…an unforgettable epicurean experience at a fine resort, where the food is world-class and the service unsurpassed?these may be the culinary memories of your visit to Sedona. Oh, and do allow yourself some time to gaze at the magnificent Red Rocks, too.

Barbara Rothschild

     Recommended tours

Sedona is a tourist haven, spiritually uplifting and incredibly beautiful, and attracts visitors from far-flung locations. Galleries abound, with artwork in various styles to suit diverse tastes. Since the 50s, artists have been attracted to the glorious uprisings of the red rocks. Many fine restaurants and accommodations have sprung up to cater to visitors, as well as guides who share mystical secrets of the surrounding area. Several days are recommended to enjoy the full impact of the area’s offerings.

Start your area tour walking through the marvelous collection of shops and galleries in the Tlaquepaque village. For the sculpture-lover, you’ll be happy to find treasures in the Mountain Trails Galleries among others. Take an artistic tour viewing the annual October Sculpture Walk at Los Abrigados Resort. Savory shapes and colors await in the outstanding collections at the Kuivato Gallery that specializes in glass creations. Other galleries farther up Highway 179 and north on Highway 89A at Uptown, offer additional artistic work to discover and enjoy.

Toward the end of November, do not miss the walking tour through the fabulous Red Rock Fantasy at Los Abrigados Resort, which features more than 68 holiday light displays. In December, enjoy the luminarias at the Festival of Lights at Tlaquepaque.

Sedona has long been a spiritual center for personal growth and balance as well as an area possessing rare, naturally occurring energy vortexes. Across the street from Tlaquepaque, you will find ancient wisdom among the services at the Center For the New Age, which touts a “secret” vortex. Many local vortex tours are available that will familiarize you with the specific behaviors of these power sources. Some of these include the Medicine Wheel Tours, “Spirit Steps” Tours, Way of the Ancients Tours and Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours.

Visitors can also see the beauty of the red rocks from a higher realm, in a fabulous hot air balloon. Coconino National Forest permits a couple of hot air balloon tour groups to offer birds’ eye views, including Red Rock Balloon Adventures and Northern Light Balloon Expeditions. Float above the canyon and forests, and then land for a satisfying champagne picnic.

After your date with the wind, delightful hiking tours are offered at Red Rock State Park and Slide Rock State Park, both of which are fee areas. The area also affords connected bicycle paths to provide close encounters with Sedona’s beauty. Pick up trail information and a cup of joe at the local Bike & Bean or find local information at Mountain Bike Heaven in Sedona.

Expeditions on four wheels or four legs are also featured in the area, with horseback touring arranged through A Day In The West or Trail Horse Adventures. For a faster ride, grab your hat and hang on, with jeep and 4×4 tours through several tour guides in the area including Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours, Pink Jeep Tours and Red Rock Jeep Tours.

Slow down the pace somewhat, and take a drive through one of the most scenic drives in America, as noted by Rand-McNally. Take Highway 89A north through the exquisite Oak Creek Canyon and don’t forget the ol’ Kodak. Fishing opportunities are offered along the creek banks throughout the area. If you are having an off day, cast in the local Rainbow Trout Farm for an easy catch. Another beautiful drive is offered along the Red Rock Loop Road in Red Rock State Park, located in West Sedona. Opportunities to capture photographs of outstanding panoramic views, and occasionally wildlife, are numerous.

Nearby, a short drive northwest of town will lead you to the ancient traces of the Sinagua people who lived and farmed the Verde Valley. Two pueblos make up the Palatki site, whose Hopi name translates to “Red House.” Nearby, find ruins that were named Honanki or “Bear House,” which originally held 60 rooms and offers further exploration into the lives of those who have gone before. Another nearby site left by the Sinagua is located in Clarkdale about 20 miles from Sedona. Tuzigoot National Monument is the remains of an immense pueblo that was built on the crest of a hill and once held as many as 110 rooms.

Northeast of Sedona, there are more pueblo remains in a canyon at the Walnut Canyon National Monument. More liberal access is offered here, and rangers lead difficult hikes during the warm months of summer to places less commonly viewed by the public.

If the excitement has you wishing for a seated tour, take the popular video tour The Spirit of Wonder at the Sedona Super Vue theater, which features a four-story-screen. Set to music, the breathtaking scenery is enhanced by vivid imagery and music.

Tourists in the mood for an elevated experience should check out the awesome aerial antics of the Red Rock Biplane Tours. Other air tours are available at Sky Safari or AeroVista. Helicopter tours are also available locally, through Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters or AirStar Helicopter Tours. These tours offer varied excursions, and if you have the time, the Grand Canyon National Park should not be missed.

Rather stay grounded? Check out an incredible journey by rail at two locations nearby. In Clarkdale, take a train tour through red-walled canyons for a memorable experience. Day trips from Williams to the south rim of the Grand Canyon are also available at the Grand Canyon Railway next to the Fray Marcos Hotel.

Wherever you choose to spend your precious time, Sedona more than satisfies. Many visitors come away enlightened from their experiences here, and many return. The friendliness of the local people does not diminish with the length of your stay, nor do the rocks ever lose their awe-inspiring magnificence.

Suzanne Coleman

     Where to stay

Sedona’s very name has a musical feel, hinting at the magic of this high desert territory with its ethereal red rocks, four mild seasons and kaleidoscope of canyon life.

Spring-fed Oak Creek meanders through stunning rock formations, scenic parks and tree-lined hiking trails. Several days are needed to experience Sedona’s natural and spiritual wonders. But where is the perfect pillow under this vast blue sky?

To rope the rustic romance of the Old West, try a bed-and-breakfast inn. Sedona has many award-winning establishments with three and four-diamond ratings from AAA, some of which have been featured on the pages of Arizona Highways magazine. If you prefer a familiar stakeout, Sedona is also home to many popular hotel chains.

Whether you crave a cozy cabin, a three-diamond resort, or modest motel, Sedona has a room with a view where you can hang your hat. Most accommodations can be found in four major areas: Uptown Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, West Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek, just outside of town.

Uptown Sedona Morning light touches the rooftops of the exclusive country French cottages at L’Auberge de Sedona, where breakfast warms in a lavish European lodge and early risers climb the vine-grown hillside steps toward town. Up the street, coffee brews at the Apple Orchard Inn, where a family gathers around an Indian Pottery waterfall to plan a day of hiking at Red Rock State Park.

Perhaps having celebrated a successful business endeavor the previous evening, guests at the Arroyo Roble Hotel dress quickly, anticipating a picture perfect game on the rolling greens of Sedona Golf Resort. Fellow guests may be hovering outside the adobe walls of Tlaquepaque’s artisan village, as shop doors swing open. The bustle and hum of Sedona’s colorful shopping and dining district fades to a murmur deeper into the canyon, where towering trees wrap the landscape in a comforting hush.

Oak Creek Canyon Morning stretches like a shadow into Oak Creek Canyon, where guests lounge on a sun-dappled redwood deck at Junipine Resort and listen to the healing songs of the creek.

Deeper in the canyon, a honeymooning couple might emerge from a cabin at Briar Patch Inn to photograph the scenic surroundings. Not far off is Pine Flats Campground, where the forest entices visitors to grab backpacks and go exploring.

West Sedona At the lovely Kokopelli Suites, outdoor enthusiasts may saddle up for an outing with Trail Horse Adventures and return to take a dip in the swimming pool. Tourists looking for less costly accommodations may stop at Days Inn, before packing up their Jeep for an off-road ride. A perfect destination is the prehistoric American Indian pueblo in Walnut Canyon National Monument.

At Boots & Saddles Bed and Breakfast, a cowboy’s heart is dressed to the nines in character and comfort. Guests at the popular Best Western relax on the open terrace and watch the light deepen from orange to red.

Village of Oak Creek Guests at the Bell Rock Inn can dine beside a picture window in the on-site restaurant. They will enjoy a weekend packed with outdoor activities and in-room amenities. Visitors at Alma de Sedona step from the comfort of beautifully appointed quarters to watch the moon rise and plan tomorrow’s trip to the ruins at Tuzigoot National Monument.

Guests at the Inn on Oak Creek Bed & Breakfast can slip into a two-person Jacuzzi after stargazing. Travelers staying at Poco Diablo Resort can make their way across the green lawn to the on-site restaurant, T. Carl’s, which offers sumptuous Southwestern fare and overlooks the golf course.

A short distance away is The Desert Quail Inn, a casual haunt with reasonable room rates.

These four exquisite areas in this exceptional location offer Southwestern comforts and exciting activities. Browse the pages of future memories while planning your own dream vacation in the desert town of Sedona.

Stacey Fruits

     Getting there

Getting There:

By Air:

The closest main airport is the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport ( +1 602 273 330/ http://www.phxskyharbor.com), over 100 miles from Sedona. This is one of the busiest airports in the country and operates over 1300 daily flights from the following airlines:

AeroMexico ( +1 800 237 6639/ http://www.aeromexico.com )

Air Canada ( +1 888 247 2262/ http://www.aircanada.ca )

Alaska Airlines ( +1 800 426 0333/ http://www.alaskaair.com )

America West ( +1 800 235 9292/ http://www.americawest.com )

American ( +1 800 433 7300/ http://www.aa.com )

American Trans Air ( +1 800 225 2995/ http://www.ata.com )

Arizona Express ( +1 866 435 9872/ http://www.azxpress.com )

British Airways ( +1 800 247 9297/ http://www.british-airways.com )

Continental ( +1 800 525 0280/ http://www.continental.com )

Delta ( +1 800 221 1212/ http://www.delta-air.com )

Frontier ( +1 800 432 1359/ http://www.frontierairlines.com )

Great Lakes ( +1 800 554 5111/ http://www.greatlakesav.com )

Hawaiian Airlines ( +1 800 367 5320/ http://www.hawaiianair.com )

JetBlue ( +1 800 538 2583/ http://www.jetblue.com )

Midwest ( +1 800 452 2022/ http://www.midwestairlines.com )

Northwest ( +1 800 225 2525/ http://www.nwa.com )

Southwest ( +1 800 435 9792/ http://www.southwest.com )

Sun Country ( +1 800 359 6786/ http://www.suncountry.com )

TED ( +1 800 225 5833/ http://www.flyted.com )

United ( +1 800 241 6522/ http://www.ual.com )

US Airways ( +1 800 428 4322/ http://www.usairways.com )

WestJet ( +1 888 937 8538/ http://www.westjet.com )

Sedona Phoenix Shuttle Service ( +1 928 282 2066 ) provides transportation to and from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Rental Car companies include:

Advantage ( +1 800 777 5500/ http://www.arac.com )

Alamo ( +1 800 327 9633/ http://www.goalamo.com )

Avis ( +1 800 831 2847/ http://www.avis.com )

Budget ( +1 800 527 0700/ http://www.budget.com )

Dollar ( +1 800 800 4000/ http://www.dollar.com )

Enterprise ( +1 800 736 8222/ http://www.enterprise.com )

Hertz ( +1 800 654 3131/ http://www.hertz.com )

National ( +1 800 227 7368/ http://www.nationalcar.com )

Thrifty ( +1 800 847 4389/ http://www.thrifty.com )

By Train:

The closest Amtrak station ( +1 800 872 7245/ http://www.amtrak.com ) is in Flagstaff, 30 miles north of Sedona. Amtrak provides service to Flagstaff from several major cities around the country.

By Bus:

Greyhound ( +1 800 231 2222/ http://www.greyhound.com ) accesses Flagstaff, about 30 miles north of Sedona. The Flagstaff station, ( +1 928 774 4573 ), located at 399 S Malpais Lane, is open 24 hours daily.

By Car:

Approach Sedona by Interstate 17 to SR-179 or SR-89A.

Getting Around:

The Sedona Trolley ( +1 928 282 5400/ http://www.sedonatrolley.com ) offers two 55-minute tours of the city. Tours depart at the Uptown depot in the middle of Sedona.

Red Rock Trains ( +1 928 301 7203 ) provide three narrative tours of Sedona on a replica steam engine.

See Sedona’s amazing Red Rocks and canyons on a Bell Jet Ranger Helicopter with Arizona Helicopter Adventures ( +1 800 282 5141/ http://www.azheli.com ).

     District guide

Sedona is a community of diverse cultures and interests. Recently named by American Styles Magazine as one of five top art destinations by polled readers, Sedona has evolved from a small agricultural community into an artist’s sanctuary and a tourist’s dream. Four major regions offer significant contributions to Greater Sedona. You’ll find lovely accommodations and year-round comfort with more than 40 galleries, unique shops and countless attractions. Four visitor’s centers are offered at each gateway that feature maps and local information.

The Village of Oak Creek

Located on the southernmost end of Sedona is Oak Creek, a village that offers premier galleries, shops and a superb shopping experience at the charming Tlaquepaque, a recreated Mexican village. Galleries and shops nearby offer alternative browsing and spiritual enlightenment. The Sedona Golf Resort is nearby, with fine dining at the Grill at Shadow Rock. This area is also called the Chapel area, due to the proximity to the ascetic Chapel of the Holy Cross, designed by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright. The Village area offers upscale dining, golf, tennis, shopping and accommodations including the Poco Diablo Resort, the suites at DoubleTree and Wildflower Inn.

The fiery-hued rock formations you’ll find in this area include the famous Bell Rock, with its energy vortex, the wonderful Courthouse Butte and adjacent to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the stately Two Nuns formation.

Drink in fresh air and experience elevating surroundings while you continue up Highway 179 toward Sedona proper. At the “Y” junction of highways 179 and 89A, you’ll find a Visitor Center nearby.

Uptown Sedona

Turn right onto Highway 89A, and you’re headed to uptown Sedona. There are shops located in a major retail plaza along the highway that are within easy walking distance.

Rich in culture, the Uptown area offers the Sedona Arts Center, which includes a school and gallery, with juried works exhibited by various artists. Next, pay a visit to the Sedona Heritage Museum, the original farmstead of one of Sedona’s founding families, the Jordans. Exhibits include written narratives, vintage orchard equipment and photographs, which depict the area’s early history.

Outstanding accommodations in hotels and intimate bed-and-breakfasts are offered in Uptown. These include the European-style L’Auberge de Sedona. Rattlesnake sausage and a Pink Lizard to wash it down are featured at the nearby Cowboy Club.

Oak Creek Canyon

Follow Highway 89A North through one of the most beautiful and scenic drives in America, as noted by Rand-McNally. The tree-lined canyon offers quiet austerity and invites self-reflection as you meander through.

Many secluded spots here offer sanctuary and quiet rooms, with space to relieve your mind of daily stresses and anxiety. Charming accommodations may be found at locations like the Junipine Resort.

Hiking and fishing are two favorite pastimes at Oak Creek. Bring your fishing license during the warm months when the creek is well stocked. Take a seat on the sun-warmed rocks and contemplate the satisfying natural world.

Dappled sunlight reflects on the water at nature’s playground in Slide Rock State Park. Bring your camera as children at play frolic down the 30-foot natural rockslide. Easy hiking surrounds the area, but wear comfortable shoes with traction, as the path is often slippery.

If you follow Highway 89A north, you will eventually see Steamboat Rock and arrive in Flagstaff, which features the largest Ponderosa Pine forest in the world. Just a few miles West of Flagstaff, off Interstate 40, you’ll find skiing, and the original Route 66 running through the charming town of Williams. This is also the town where you catch the train to see the Grand Canyon National Park for a scenic day trip.

West Sedona

Wind your way back down Highway 89A to the “Y” junction at Highway 179 in downtown Sedona. Travel through this intersection to enjoy the many faces of Sedona’s west side. You will find interesting shops, fine dining including Fournos Restaurant, grocery stores and quaint bed-and-breakfasts like the Lantern Light Inn.

Sedona’s airport offers activities like barnstorming the canyon at the Red Rock Biplane Tours, or rising to meet red monoliths in an aircraft from AeroVista.

Growing by leaps and bounds, this area has acquired a beautiful new Cultural Park and Visitor Center, which opened in the summer of 2000. Featured at the hub of the park’s 50 acres is the new Georgia Frontiere Performing Arts Pavilion. Home to the annual Jazz on the Rocks concert in September, and the Sedona Ecofest benefit event in October, this amphitheatre features unique openwork architecture. From this vantage point, enjoy panoramic northern views of the Cockscomb, Chimney Rock and the majestic Coffee Pot Rock.

Drive a little further west, then head south down the Lower Red Rock Loop Road for a satisfying journey into the Red Rock State Park. Red Rock Park’s fee area offers a picnic retreat at Red Rock Crossing. This is one of the most photographed locations in the world.

Many opportunities exist in the area for photography and study of the early indigenous cultures. Take a short ride to the pueblo ruins at Palatki and Honanki, which are closest to Sedona. A little further out you’ll discover Tuzigoot National Monument in Clarkdale. If you have some leisure time, be sure and take the wilderness train at Clarkdale for an enjoyable journey by rail through red-laced canyons. Jerome is nearby, which offers unusual charm. Its shops and homes are built on the sharp incline of a slowly sliding mountain slope.

Suzanne Coleman

     Historical background

Sedona is a tourist haven, offering panoramic views like few other locations. At an elevation of 4,500 feet, the average year-round temperature is about 74 degrees. Appealing to visitors from all over the world, this town is the second most popular attraction in Arizona, right behind the Grand Canyon National Park.

Sedona’s earliest history was written upon the face of the land with tremendous earthly upheavals, intense heat and incredible elemental force. Seas once covered the entire Verde Valley and the withdrawal of these waters created dynamic geological changes. Erosion and time have designed fanciful rock formations in memorable hues of red and orange that erupt in vivid color at day’s end.

The earliest human remnants were left in Sedona by ancient peoples referred to collectively as the Desert Culture, from which sprang the Anasazi and Hohokam groups, among others. Anasazi is a Navajo name, which translates as “the ancient ones who are not us.” Some researchers believe that the Hopi tribes are direct descendants of this culture.

The Sinagua, whose Spanish name means “without water,” were a hardy agrarian society that dry farmed and traded extensively in the area from about 1100-1400 AD. Commerce was not limited to nearby tribes, but flourished as a hub, trading with groups from the Pacific coastal regions as well as from South America. Salt and copper were major exported items, while imports included exotic bird feathers from South America and shells from the West Coast. There are indications that tribes put aside differences for celebrations and religious ceremonies that took place in this region. Traces of these ancient civilizations can be found hidden in the remains of the great pueblos that once housed them. The Palatki ruin, constructed by the Sinagua and located between Sedona and Clarkdale, offers glimpses of the past depicted through charcoal rock drawings of snakes and Kokopelli. Researchers believe that some of these pictographs were actually the identifying symbols of a particular family or clan. It is believed that as many as 50 people may have once resided in these two pueblos. Honanki, another nearby Sinaguan ruin, held as many as 60 rooms and the structure quality is considered world class.

Southeast of Sedona is Montezuma’s Castle and nearby Montezuma’s Well, fabulous examples of cliff dwellings that were also built by the Sinagua people in the same time period. The area was originally occupied by the Hohokam, who farmed the bottomland using a unique irrigation system that extended for more than a mile from the fresh springs of Montezuma’s Well.

When the volcanic ash remains from an eruption farther north drew the Hohokam to more fertile lands, the Sinagua people settled in. Many changes took place for the people at this point; some theorize that they borrowed masonry techniques from the Anasazi to the north, building above ground dwellings for the first time. The Sinagua also began using the irrigation techniques of the Hohokam. Early in the 15th century, these people vanished from the area for reasons unknown today.

These early cultures left traces etched and painted on the surfaces of immoveable rocks. These renderings are referred to as “rock art” and consist of petroglyphs, which are designs etched or scratched into the rock, as well as pictographs, where symbols are painted or drawn on. Canyon walls are also decorated with the artistic creations of these people. One Anasazi figure believed to represent fertility repeats throughout Pueblo Indian ruins in the four corners region and is called Kokopelli. This image appears as a humpbacked flute player and is a common figure found on local pottery and jewelry. Native American stories describe him as a traveling musician and scoundrel, who carried blankets, babies and seeds in his back, which he used to seduce maidens.

Europeans first arrived in this region in 1583, with a group of Spanish explorers, in search of legendary native mines in the 16th century. By the early 20th century there were about 20 families squatting here, and one of these first settlers was T.C. Schnebly and his wife. Schnebly recognized the need for mail service and petitioned the first post office, recommending several names. The Postmaster General rejected these due to the length, and Schnebly’s brother suggested that he use his wife’s first name. At this point the area officially became known as Sedona.

Abundant apples and peaches were Sedona’s first industry, soon to be surpassed by tourism as awareness of the area’s breathtaking panorama increased. Artists, including Max Ernst and others, started moving into the area by the middle of the 20th century, drawn like magnets by the region’s dramatic scenery and incomparable views.

The frenetic color, scenery and open spaces here fairly scream to be captured and recorded on film. More than 70 movies have been filmed in this area over the years. More than 40 of these were filmed at A Territorial House, a local bed-and-breakfast. Red Rock Crossing’s film history includes many titles like the 1950s Broken Arrow, starring James Stewart and Johnny Guitar with Joan Crawford.

More recently, tourism accounts for the local economic base. Major visitor attractions here include world-class resorts, fine dining and four Energy Vortexes, which are purported to have spiritual healing properties. Estimations show more than four million visitors come annually.

Choose to listen to the quiet whisperings of the past as you gaze at ancient ruins, or raise your awareness in the throes of spiritual energies at the vortexes. You may be altered forever by the quiet unfolding drama of the canyon and creek below, and the ebullient colors, which shout and echo from the rocks above.

Suzanne Coleman

  Entertainment

With all of Sedona’s majestic natural beauty and overall spirit of health and well-being, it’s difficult to fight the urge to just sit on your terrace and gaze in awe. But you’d be doing a disservice to yourself and the city if you didn’t pursue at least a few of the many recreational, cultural and historical opportunities that abound in the area.

A good place to start is with a tour of Red Rock Country?you choose the mode of travel. Sedona Trolley tours depart every hour on the hour, from the center of Uptown Sedona, for narrated jaunts to the most popular scenic attractions, shops, galleries and resorts. If you have the urge to get up close with nature and the unique countryside, opt for a Pink Jeep tour. These rugged, off-road adventures take you into the heart of Sedona’s high desert landscape. Sit high in the saddle and experience Sedona the way the cowboys of the Old West first saw it, by horseback. A Day In The West and Trail Horse Adventures provide the perfect equestrian adventures. For a birds-eye perspective, glide serenely over Sedona in a hot air balloon, piloted by Northern Light Balloon Expeditions. Or feel your pulse pounding and wind whipping through your hair on a vintage Red Rock Biplane Tour, which is one of only four U.S. companies to offer this type of tour. Sedona is a haven for bicycle fanatics and Mountain Bike Heaven is a paradise for peddlers. At the Bike & Bean, they not only outfit bikers for remarkable rides, but add a java jolt to stimulate you before you set off.

If your quest runs more toward the spiritual than the physical, a number of companies will guide you through the mystical points and properties of the Sedona vortexes and perform cleansing medicine wheel rituals. Way of the Ancients, Sedona’s only completely Native American tour company, educates and enlightens with ancient teachings and tales. Both a spiritual and a scenic wonder, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is situated high on a hill, between two red sandstone peaks. It provides an incredible view of the area and is easy to locate by the 90-foot cross that graces the front of the building.

Delve into Sedona’s origins at Sedona Heritage Museum, on the original Jordan farmstead. The museum chronicles the city from its pioneering days, through its establishment as an Arizona agricultural center. Many old apple orchard implements are on display. Gain insight into the area’s distant past at the Tuzigoot National Monument in nearby Clarkdale. One of the Southwest’s most remarkably preserved pueblos, inhabited about a thousand years ago by the Sinagua Indians, the museum contains artifacts from the 110 room ruins. Living geographical history can be seen and explored at Slide Rock State Park, an awesome natural 70-foot-long waterslide you’ll long remember. On your way to and from Slide Rock, you will be wowed by the spectacular cliffs and gorges of Oak Creek Canyon. Don’t forget your camera! The wonders of Sedona wildlife also abound at Red Rock State Park, a nearly 300-acre riparian refuge and preserve.

Rather enjoy cushy, air-conditioned comfort? Take in the Spirit of Wonder show at the Sedona Super Vue, located at the Prime Factory Outlet Center. This introduction to the area is the ideal way to get your bearings and learn about the area’s unique environment and history. West Sedona’s Harkins Theatre is the perfect place to catch the latest Hollywood release, or to wait out one of the rare rain or snow storms that turn the Red Rocks to a glistening picture postcard.

The city’s newest and most magnificent performing arts venue, Sedona Cultural Park, hosts concerts and theatre events in a stunning outdoor amphitheater. The Georgia Frontiere Outdoor Performance Pavilion is home to the annual Sedona Jazz on the Rocks festival in September and also the site of the Sedona International Film Festival and Workshop each March.

Another local vortex of arts and creativity is known as Tlaquepaque. This gallery, shop and restaurant complex is a tribute to Spanish-style architecture and the spirit and works of Southwestern artists and artisans. Among the many notable galleries and showcases for local talent are AvantGarden, a tiny space filled with eclectic treasures like David Russell’s handmade paper musical instruments; Kuivato Gallery, featuring handmade glass sculptures; and Mountain Trails Galleries, representing more than 50 area artists, including the limited-edition bronzes of Scott Rogers. Custom-designed clothing, jewelry and gifts can be found at Call O’ The Canyon and The Blue-Eyed Bear.

While you are in a shopping mode, visit the Prime Factory Outlets, just a bit farther south on State Route 179 for great deals on name brand clothing, housewares, books, leather goods and luggage. More than 30 stores including Anne Klein, IZOD, Van Heusen and the Book Warehouse are open daily.

You might imagine that, once Sedona’s sun sets, it is time to say good night. Think again! The excitement takes on a whole new dimension. Casa Rincon, the Spanish-inspired restaurant and lounge, comes alive with fiery Flamenco entertainment and live bands. Oak Creek Brewing Company and Canyon Breeze are perfect places to toast the Sedona sunset and stay for a meal and music. Billiards is also big, with resort-style recreation at Steaks & Sticks and local, blue collar competition at PJ’s Village Pub’s Thursday night tournaments. On the west side of town, the Laughing Coyote is a favorite gathering spot for weekend drinking and dancing.

Sedona is all about renewal and rejuvenation. Some folks find their inner peace in the surroundings, others in extreme adventure. However you choose to spend your time here, one thing is guaranteed?this is a city like no other, with an energy that’s sure to draw you back often.

Barbara Rothschild

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This entry was posted on Monday, June 18th, 2007 at 9:05 pm and is filed under Places of Interest in USA. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.