A few weeks ago, I started a two-part post on 10 things to do around Sedona. Now that we have the hikes covered, I'm sharing five activities that don't require a single ounce of athleticism, and still provide you with a great Red Rock Country experience. These are all budget/kid/vegetarian-friendly attractions the whole family can enjoy.
1. Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center
The visitor center is always our first stop of the day. One mile south of the Village of Oak Creek, it's a great place to stretch our legs, give the pup a potty break, change diapers and get a sneak peak into what Red Rock Country is all about. You can also get hiking and camping info, maps, and a Red Rock Pass, required to park anywhere the national forest area. ($5/daily, $15/weekly, $20/annually).
Tip: According to wildsedona.com, some national park passes are also valid as parking passes; buying one can save you money if you are also planning to visit local archeological sites, the Grand Canyon, and other national parks and attractions.
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| Lookout point at the visitor center |
2. Son Silver West
There are SO many 'chachkie' and souvenir stores in the area, and honestly, most of them look the same. I don't usually spend much time Uptown - the main shopping area in Sedona - although you can find beautiful views just by strolling the strip while eating ice cream. If I'm looking for souvenirs, I head to whimsical and full-of-character Son Silver West. Before you get into town (on Hwy 179), pitstop there and be ready to get lost in a sea of Southwestern/Mexican/Native American goodies. |
| Photo credit: Nathan Tweti Photography |
3. Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
Tlaquepaque is Sedona's sweet little outdoors arts & crafts village. Tree-lined pedestrian streets house art galleries, small souvenir shops, restaurants and the cutest little chapel. Tlaquepaque, meaning the "best of everything," was created after a traditional Mexican village, and is just a delight to walk around. Although I've heard it gets crowded and overwhelming on weekends and peak season, every time I visited, it was easy to park and very pleasant. |
| Grandpa and 2-month-old baby! |
4. Chocolate Tree Organic Oasis
I stumbled upon this gem while looking for some good ol' vegetarian food (which is not at all hard to find in the area). Their menu is SO good (95% seasonal, based on local availability) and they source 100% organic or wildcrafted produce, but my favorite part has got to be the garden. The restaurant's backyard is a very pleasant surprise (not to you anymore, sorry!), since you can't quite see this little slice of green paradise from the outside. The only caveat is that only service dogs are allowed back there, but there is a front patio where pups are allowed. |
5. Verde Canyon Railroad
I haven't done this one yet, but it sits at the top of my Sedona wish-list. I grew up train-traveling very often, and I love everything about it! On this tour, you get to sit back and enjoy 20 miles of river-carved canyons, bald eagle sightings, and more through panoramic windows. All while sipping on some fancy private-labeled beer or wine and not breaking a sweat.
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| Photo credit: Verde Canyon Railroad |
Needless to say, Sedona has a permanent place in my heart.
What else should we add to this list?
When I saw your link on #WeekendWanderlust, I got so excited - I absolutely love Sedona! I had not heard of Chocolate Tree before, so I'm anxious to find my way back to try it. Thanks for the tip!
ReplyDeleteHi Rob, thank you for stopping by! I love Sedona too, as you can tell, and I hope you get to go back there soon. Chocolate Tree is such a treat, I make sure to go every time I'm in town :-)
DeleteI've never visited Sedona but always thought it looked fun. I thought that hiking was the only thing to do, so I'm so glad to see some alternatives. That railroad looks like a good way to see a lot without exerting much effort, and I think I'd make a stop at Chocolate Tree.
ReplyDeleteHi Michelle! Yes there are hikes, but also off-road Jeep tours, helicopter tours, the train, and just strolling the town will you get you amazing views. You should definitely visit!
DeleteI haven't been to Sedona in years. It is such a great spot. Now I want to go back. My dad lives about 4 hours away, so no real excuse (other than I live half way around the world from my dad).
ReplyDeleteOh wow, where do you live? I hope you get to visit your dad soon, and that you guys can road-trip to Sedona together!
DeleteWhat gorgeous photos of Sedona. It looks an amazing place with lots of diverse activities.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Paula! There really is something for everyone there, and whatever you choose to do, it just takes your breath away!
DeleteI want to try the Chocolate Tree Organic Oasis! My husband and I love to eat organic and locally grown foods. We're always on the search for new little gems.
ReplyDeleteThe railroad tour looks awesome too. I wonder how much it costs and if B3 would enjoy it or not.
We've been meaning to do more hiking in the Sedona area. Would you recommend waiting until fall since it gets so hot out there?
ReplyDeleteThe weather in the Spring and Fall are generally perfect for hiking there, so if you can, I would definitely say wait until then! Although, because it's at a much higher altitude, temps aren't as bad as in the Phoenix Valley in the summer. Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteWe love Sedona and it's just so beautiful. We were there last month and had a great visit despite the unexpected "monsoon" during our Pink Jeep Tour :) I wish I knew about CHocolate Tree and will save it for next time. Love Tlaquepaque and all its stores.
ReplyDeleteI saw your gorgeous Pink Jeep tour pictures ...and I'm sure the monsoon added to the adventure factor! Hope you guys get to come back again soon!
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