Sedona Local Guidebook | SedonaEpicStays.com

Getting Around

Sedona Shuttle

Parking at Sedona's most popular trailheads fills up fast — especially on weekends. The Sedona Shuttle is the smart way around it. Cheap, easy, and it runs directly to the trailheads everyone wants to reach.

Sedona Shuttle Connect · Official Route Map Full Schedule →

Three Trailhead Routes

Routes & How To Ride

Dry Creek Vista / Mescal Trailhead

Access to Devil's Bridge and surrounding West Sedona trails. Take this one for Devil's Bridge — parking there is nearly impossible on weekends.

Soldier Pass Trailhead

Serves Soldier Pass Trail and the Seven Sacred Pools area in North Sedona.

Cathedral Rock / Little Horse

Direct service to Cathedral Rock trailhead — eliminates the parking scramble on busy mornings.

Flat Fare Per Ride

Regular fare$2.00

Discounted (seniors 60+, veterans, disability)$1.00

Children 5 & under with adultFree

Two Ways to Request a Ride

📱 Download the TransLoc app — request rides & track in real time
📞 Call 928-203-5152

Three Park & Ride lots: Posse Grounds (20 Carruth Dr), North SR-179 (1294 SR 179), and West SR-89A (905 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd). Trailhead shuttles run Thu–Sun and daily during Spring Break (Feb 26–Apr 26) and select holidays.

Full Schedule & Real-Time Info at SedonaShuttle.com →

Where To Eat

Dinner & Drinks

Sedona's restaurant scene punches well above its size. Reserve ahead for the top spots — especially Elote and Mariposa, which book out days in advance on weekends.

Modern Mexican · Dinner Only · Tue–Sat

Elote Cafe

The best meal in Sedona. Chef Jeff Smedstad's award-winning modern Mexican — fire-roasted corn, lamb adobo, smoked brisket enchiladas, and an extensive mezcal list. James Beard semifinalist.

→Book 3–5 days ahead on weekends. Walk-ins can wait at the bar — arrive at 5pm when they open.

→350 Jordan Rd · Tue–Sat, 5pm–9pm · reservations up to 60 days in advance at elotecafe.com

Our #1 Pick · 329 locals recommend

Latin Fine Dining · Dinner

Mariposa

Upscale Latin-inspired grill with sweeping red rock views from every table. Scallops, grilled octopus, and their signature Mariposa margarita are must-orders. The most sought-after dinner reservation in Sedona.

→Reserve well in advance. 700 W Hwy 89A · outdoor patio has the best views

425 locals recommend

Italian · Lunch & Dinner

Hideaway House

Casual Italian with panoramic red rock views — two floors of open-air seating overlooking Oak Creek toward Snoopy Rock. Meatball sandwich, peach pizza, onion soup. Dog-friendly.

→Opens 11am · great post-hike lunch · Jordan Rd & Hwy 179

109 locals recommend

American · Lunch & Dinner

The Hudson

Outdoor deck with red rock views. Bison burger, prickly pear BBQ ribs, corn chowder, and the famous chocolate skookie dessert. Lively, casual, great for groups.

→Arrive at 5pm or reserve for dinner · bar seating first-come

296 locals recommend

American · Views · All Day

Mesa Grill Sedona

Southwest-style grill at Airport Mesa with 360° red rock panoramas. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lemon ricotta pancakes and huevos rancheros are standouts. Full bar, happy hour 3:30–5:30pm daily.

→1185 Airport Rd · mesagrillsedona.com · great for a sunset dinner

150 locals recommend

American · Upscale Casual

Creekside American Bistro

Seasonal American cuisine with open-air kitchen, outdoor patio, and red rock views. Great happy hour, creative bar with local beers, shareable starters. Lively but relaxed — great for groups.

→Creekside Plaza · lunch, brunch, dinner & happy hour

114 locals recommend

Rooftop Bar · Views

Shorebird

A welcoming Uptown Sedona restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and solid American menu — a great option when the more popular spots are fully booked. 72 locals recommend it as a reliable, accessible choice right in the heart of Uptown.

→Uptown Sedona · no reservation typically needed · good for lunch or casual dinner

Uptown · Patio Views

The Vault Uptown

Centrally located in Uptown with a great patio overlooking the red rocks. Solid American menu, full bar, and one of the most convenient locations for a meal between shopping and sightseeing.

→Uptown Sedona · 104 locals recommend · walk-in friendly

Urban Eatery · Market

Pump House Station

A distinctive urban eatery and market with an industrial-chic atmosphere. Eclectic menu, great coffee, and a strong local following. One of the most unique dining atmospheres in Sedona.

→151 locals recommend · great for a casual meal or coffee break

Brewpub · Lunch & Dinner

Oak Creek Brewery & Grill

Sedona's only brewpub — craft ales brewed on-premises, second-floor patio with red rock views. Gourmet burgers, pizza, sandwiches. A genuine Sedona institution for a cold one after a hike.

→Grab the second-floor patio table · great happy hour

Only Brewpub in Town

Patio · Red Rock Views

Canyon Breeze Restaurant

In the heart of Uptown with a heated patio overlooking Sedona's iconic red rock formations. Solid dining right in the middle of the Uptown action — convenient and atmospheric.

→Uptown Sedona · 15 locals recommend · convenient after shopping

Upscale Burgers

Butterfly Burger

Chef Lisa Dahl's elevated burger concept — hand-formed patties, freshly baked buns, inventive sides. A great casual option when you want quality food without the fine dining commitment.

→Central Sedona · easy for a quick lunch between hikes · usually no wait at lunch

🍦

Black Cow Cafe in Uptown is the go-to for homemade ice cream and coffee — 19 locals recommend it. Look for the red awning. Perfect after shopping or sightseeing.

Morning Fuel

Breakfast & Coffee

Fuel up before hitting the trails. These are our go-tos for a great morning start.

Diner · Breakfast & Lunch

Coffee Pot Restaurant

A 30-year Sedona institution facing Coffee Pot Rock. Famous for 101 different omelettes, generous portions, and some of the best prices in town. The gathering spot for locals, visitors, and the occasional psychic.

→2050 W Hwy 89A · West Sedona · arrive before 8am on weekends to beat the wait

164 locals recommend · 101 Omelettes

Cafe · Breakfast & Brunch

Secret Garden Cafe

Tucked inside Tlaquepaque village — one of Sedona's most charming breakfast spots. Cozy patio, excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and a solid brunch menu. A lovely slow-morning experience.

→Inside Tlaquepaque Arts Village · Hwy 179 · limited seating, arrive early on weekends

Cafe · Breakfast & Lunch

Indian Gardens Cafe

A beloved local find in Oak Creek Canyon — lush outdoor patio alongside the creek in a historic 1940s building. Excellent coffee and seasonal menu. The most peaceful breakfast setting in the area.

→3951 N Hwy 89A · Oak Creek Canyon · pair with a stop at Slide Rock State Park nearby

Team Favorite

On The Trail

Best Hikes

Sedona has 200+ miles of trails. These are the ones our team recommends to every guest. Arrive early — trailhead parking fills by 8am on weekends.

3.9 mi · Moderate

Devil's Bridge Trail

Sedona's most iconic natural sandstone arch and the most photographed spot in the city. The final approach up a small staircase to walk across the arch is genuinely jaw-dropping.

→Take the free shuttle from downtown — parking is nearly impossible on weekends.

→Arrive before 7am if driving. Plan for 30–60 min wait at the arch on peak days.

249 locals recommend · Our #1

1.4 mi RT · Strenuous

Cathedral Rock Trailhead

Short but steep — the saddle rewards with breathtaking panoramic views. One of Sedona's most powerful vortex sites and the most photographed formation in the area.

→Sunrise is best — beat the crowds and get the best light. Parking fills fast after 7am.

→Crescent Moon Ranch ($10) gives ground-level views without the climb — great for non-hikers.

263 locals recommend · Vortex Site

0.8 mi · Easy

Bell Rock Trailhead

The most accessible vortex site — flat approach with a dramatic bell-shaped butte rising from the desert floor. Great for all ages. Combine with Courthouse Butte Loop (4 mi total) for more.

→Village of Oak Creek, south on Hwy 179 · free with Red Rock Pass

197 locals recommend

3.2 mi · Easy–Moderate

Airport Mesa Loop

The best sunset hike in Sedona — 360° views of Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Thunder Mountain all at once. Also a vortex site. The upper parking lot gives great views without the hike.

→Arrive 45–60 min before sunset. The Airport Overlook just up the road is also spectacular.

Best Sunset Spot

6 mi RT · Easy

West Fork Trail

Completely different from the red rock experience — a lush canyon trail through towering cliffs and forest, with creek wading. Spectacular fall foliage in October.

→$12 parking fee per vehicle · wear shoes you don't mind getting wet · lot fills early on summer weekends

Short · Easy · Hidden

Birthing Cave

A lesser-known gem — a natural cave formation with a narrow entrance that opens to a remarkable sheltered alcove with sweeping views of the Verde Valley. Far less crowded than the main trails.

→Off Soldier Pass Rd, West Sedona · 29 locals recommend · some light scrambling on the approach

Hidden Gem

Must See

Sightseeing & Attractions

Beyond the trails, Sedona and the surrounding area have remarkable places to visit — from iconic landmarks to world-famous natural formations.

Cultural · Free · Daily 9–5

Chapel of the Holy Cross

A striking modernist chapel built directly into the red rocks in 1956. The architecture and approach road views are extraordinary, regardless of faith. Open daily, no admission charge.

→780 Chapel Rd, Village of Oak Creek · 365 locals recommend · paid parking, arrive early

Free Entry

State Park · Natural Waterslide

Slide Rock State Park

Natural rock chutes carved by Oak Creek into an 80-foot waterslide — one of Arizona's most visited attractions. Perfect summer day for families and groups. Also beautiful in other seasons for the scenery alone.

→N Hwy 89A, Oak Creek Canyon · arrive before 9am in summer · $30/vehicle

437 locals recommend · Family Favorite

Views · Free · All Day

Sedona Airport Overlook

One of the best and most accessible viewpoints in Sedona — a short drive up Airport Road reveals a 360° panorama of the entire red rock landscape. Free, easy parking, spectacular at any time of day.

→Airport Rd, West Sedona · 115 locals recommend · great alternative when vortex parking is full

Free · 360° Views

Wildlife · Drive-Through

Bearizona Wildlife Park

Drive-through and walk-through wildlife park in Williams, AZ — black bears, wolves, bison, and more roaming free. A fantastic family experience on the way to or from the Grand Canyon.

→Williams, AZ · 45 min north · bearizona.com · allow 2–3 hours

600 locals recommend

Wildlife · Immersive

Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Immersive wildlife park in Camp Verde featuring big cats, African animals, and the famous Tiger Splash show. One of the most unique wildlife experiences in the Southwest.

→Camp Verde · 30 min south · outofafricapark.com · Tiger Splash show not to be missed

311 locals recommend

Arts Village · All Day

Tlaquepaque Arts Village

Built to resemble a traditional Mexican village — 50+ galleries, boutique shops, and four restaurants around a central courtyard. The best shopping in Sedona. Allow 2–3 hours.

→Hwy 179, south of the Y · free parking · gallery openings most Friday evenings

Must See

Energy & Spirit

The Four Vortexes

Whether or not you believe in the energy, these four sites are among the most beautiful and serene spots in Sedona. Many guests tell us the vortex experience was the most unexpected highlight of their trip.

Electromagnetic · Upflow

Cathedral Rock

Considered the strongest vortex in Sedona — associated with feminine energy, intuition, and healing. Many guests report feeling deeply peaceful or emotional at this site.

→Via Cathedral Rock trailhead (Hwy 179) or Crescent Moon Ranch for ground-level views.

Electromagnetic · Upflow

Bell Rock

The most accessible vortex — the bell-shaped butte amplifies energy outward. Popular for meditation and yoga. Energy is described as electric and activating. Great for all ages.

→Village of Oak Creek, south on Hwy 179 · often has impromptu meditation groups on weekends.

Magnetic · Inflow

Airport Mesa

An inflow vortex associated with grounding and focus — and simultaneously the best sunset viewpoint in Sedona. Two-for-one experience with 360° panoramic views.

→Small vortex parking lot fills fast at sunset — hike down from the upper Airport Mesa lot if needed.

Combined · Both Energies

Boynton Canyon

Unique as both masculine and feminine energies meet here — a "balance vortex." The canyon walls amplify the effect. Access the Subway Cave (collapsed lava tube) from the same trailhead.

→Boynton Pass Rd, West Sedona · the Vista viewpoint at the trailhead is a great spot without hiking the full canyon.

Get Out There

Tours & Experiences

Some of the best Sedona experiences don't involve hiking boots. These are the tours and activities our team recommends to every guest group.

4x4 Off-Road · 2 hrs

Pink Jeep Tours

The definitive Sedona jeep experience since 1960. The Broken Arrow tour takes you through narrow canyon slots and up sheer rock faces. The whole group will be talking about it for years.

→Broken Arrow is the top pick · pinkjeeptours.com · book days ahead in peak season

Group Favorite

Aerial · Sunrise · ~1 hr

Hot Air Balloon

Floating over the red rock formations at sunrise is one of the most spectacular things you can do in Sedona. Red Rock Balloon Adventures is our recommended operator. Champagne breakfast after landing.

→redrockballoons.com · ~$250/person · flights at sunrise · book weeks ahead in spring/fall

Narrated Tour · Uptown Pickup

Sedona Trolley

A narrated open-air trolley tour covering Sedona's most iconic areas. Picks up and drops off in Uptown — an easy walk from the Uptown properties. West and South Sedona routes available.

→Tickets must be purchased in advance · sedonatrolley.com · runs daily · great first-day activity

Great Orientation

Scenic Train · 30 min away

Verde Canyon Railroad

A 40-mile scenic train journey through a remote canyon inaccessible by road — past cliff dwellings, canyon walls, and wildlife. Open-air viewing cars. Fantastic for non-hikers and families.

→Departs Clarkdale, 30 min southwest · verdecanyonrr.com

Spiritual · Free · Dawn to Dusk

Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

A 36-foot Tibetan Buddhist stupa at the base of Thunder Mountain — one of the quietest spots in Sedona. Free to visit. 5-minute drive from West Sedona properties. Perfect for a peaceful morning walk.

→2650 Pueblo Dr, West Sedona · open dawn to dusk · free · donations appreciated

Free · Underrated Gem

History · Guided · Free Reservation

Palatki Cliff Dwellings

The largest cliff dwellings in Sedona's Red Rock Country — built by the Sinagua people AD 1150–1350. Guided tours through the ruins and remarkable rock art. Limited daily visitors for an intimate experience.

→Off FR 525 via Hwy 89A West Sedona · ~30 min drive on rough gravel roads · recreation.gov reservation required ($1 fee) · Red Rock Pass also required · closed Wed mornings

For the Family

Kids & Family Fun

Sedona is a wonderful destination for families. Between the parks, wildlife experiences, and outdoor adventures, the kids will have just as much to talk about as the adults.

Playground · Free · Open Daily

Posse Grounds Park

Sedona's best playground — brand new play structures set against a red rock backdrop. Spacious, well-maintained, and a genuine hit with kids of all ages. Great for burning off energy before or after a hike.

→525 Posse Ground Rd, West Sedona · free · 40 locals recommend · shaded seating for adults

Team Pick · Great New Park

Splash Pad · Summer · Free

Sunset Park

A great children's park with a splash pad that runs in the summer — perfect for cooling off after a morning of sightseeing. Full playground equipment and open green space in a relaxed neighborhood setting.

→West Sedona · free · splash pad Memorial Day through Labor Day · bring towels and sunscreen

Splash Pad in Summer

Adventure Course · Flagstaff · 45 min

Flagstaff Extreme

Aerial adventure course through the pines above Flagstaff — ziplines, rope bridges, and treetop challenges for all ages. One of the top family activity experiences in Northern Arizona.

→Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff · flagstaffextreme.com · 45 min north · book in advance

252 locals recommend

Natural Waterslide · Summer

Slide Rock State Park

Natural rock waterslides carved by Oak Creek — kids absolutely love the 80-foot smooth rock chute into the swimming hole. An experience they'll remember for years.

→N Hwy 89A · arrive before 9am in summer — parking fills fast. Water shoes and sunscreen.

437 locals recommend

Wildlife · Drive-Through

Bearizona Wildlife Park

Drive-through and walk-through North American wildlife park in Williams — black bears, wolves, bison roaming free. Combine with the Grand Canyon for an epic two-attraction day trip heading north.

→Williams, AZ · 45 min north · bearizona.com · 600 locals recommend · allow 2–3 hours

600 locals recommend

Cinema · Cottonwood · 20 min

Harkins Theatres

The nearest movie theatre to Sedona in Cottonwood. A great option for a rainy day, late-night outing, or when the group wants a change of pace from outdoor activities.

→Cottonwood, AZ · 20 min southwest · harkins.com · 114 locals recommend

Rest & Recharge

Wellness & Relaxation

After a few days of hiking and exploring, your body will thank you for some recovery time. Sedona has a strong wellness culture — these are our team's recommendations.

Mobile Massage · Comes to the Property

Massages by Lydia

One of our most unique team recommendations — Lydia is a skilled mobile massage therapist who sets up directly at the property. No driving, no spa parking, no hassle. She brings her table, bolsters, hot towels, and spa treatments right to you.

→60 min — $150 · 90 min — $180

→Sessions can be tailored to your needs. Discounted packages available for multiple massages in the same group — perfect for a spa party or group recovery day.

→Ask us for Lydia's contact info at check-in and we'll connect you directly. Book early — she fills up quickly.

Team Recommended · Comes to You

Sedona Spas · Various Locations

Spa Day in Sedona

Sedona has a strong spa culture to match its wellness vibe. Top options include Mii amo at Enchantment Resort (world-class destination spa in Boynton Canyon), Amara Spa in Uptown (convenient location), and Hilton Sedona Spa (great day pass option). All offer massage, facials, and body treatments.

→Book 1–2 weeks ahead during peak season · many offer day packages including pool and sauna use.

→Our personal pick: sauna + cold plunge at the property, then a Lydia massage — the perfect post-hike recovery day.

Stock Up

Grocery & Essentials

All the properties have fully equipped kitchens — here's where to stock up when you arrive. Our team recommends stopping at the grocery store before checking in so you're settled from the start.

Organic · Full Service

Whole Foods Market

Full organic and conventional selection, great prepared foods, deli, and bakery. Best all-around grocery option in Sedona.

→West Sedona, Hwy 89A · 266 locals recommend · great prepared food section for night one

Our #1 Pick

Full Service · Best Prices

Safeway

Full-service supermarket with the widest everyday selection and the best prices in Sedona. Best for big grocery runs and stocking up for a group.

→West Sedona · 169 locals recommend · best for large group grocery runs

Local · Deli Sandwiches

Bashas'

Arizona-based local grocery with a neighborhood feel. Good deli counter and fresh-made specialty sandwiches — great for a quick grab-and-go lunch or trail snacks.

→Sedona · 24 locals recommend · deli sandwiches are a solid quick lunch

Health · Organic Focused

Natural Grocers

Focused on organic, non-GMO, and natural products at competitive prices. Great for specialty dietary needs — gluten-free, vegan, or organic-only households.

→Sedona · 24 locals recommend · best for specialty households

💊

Need a pharmacy or sundries? CVS is conveniently located in Sedona for medications, sunscreen, first aid, or anything you may have forgotten. Open late most days. 26 locals recommend it.

Beyond Sedona

Day Trips

Sedona's location in Northern Arizona puts some of the most spectacular places in the American Southwest within easy reach.

2 hours north · Full day

Grand Canyon South Rim

One of the seven natural wonders of the world is two hours from your front door. The drive via Oak Creek Canyon and through Flagstaff is spectacular. Arrive early — parking fills by 9am in summer. Mather Point and Bright Angel Trail are the classic starting points. Combine with Bearizona in Williams on the way back.

2.5 hours northwest · Full day

Horseshoe Bend & Skywalk

Two of the most dramatic geological views in America in one trip. Horseshoe Bend near Page, AZ — the iconic Colorado River meander — is a 1.5 mile round trip with an unforgettable payoff. The Grand Canyon West Skywalk (glass-floored bridge over the canyon) is nearby. 282 and 131 locals recommend these respectively.

45 minutes southwest · Half day

Jerome Ghost Town

A former copper mining boomtown clinging to Mingus Mountain — now a quirky artsy ghost town with galleries, wine bars, and remarkable architecture. The views of the Verde Valley from Jerome are extraordinary. Combine with Verde Valley wine tasting on the way back.

30 minutes south · Half day

Verde Valley Wine Trail

Arizona's most acclaimed wine region is right next door. Page Springs Cellars and D.A. Ranch are the standouts — both have beautiful outdoor tasting areas surrounded by vineyards and red rock views. Plan for 2–3 wineries max and designate a driver.

45 minutes north · Half–Full day

Flagstaff

A charming college town at 7,000ft elevation — noticeably cooler than Sedona. Historic downtown Route 66 strip with excellent restaurants, breweries, and boutiques. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is here. Gateway to the Grand Canyon and San Francisco Peaks skiing in winter.

3 hours north · Full day

Antelope Canyon

The famous slot canyons near Page, AZ — narrow sandstone passages with dramatically beautiful light beams. Upper Antelope Canyon requires a Navajo Nation guided tour (book weeks ahead). Combine with Horseshoe Bend for one of the most legendary road trips in the Southwest.

Before You Go

Our Team's Insider Tips

🌅

Hike Early, Always

Trailheads fill by 8–9am on weekends. Set your alarm, hike at sunrise, and have the trails nearly to yourself with the best photography light.

🚌

Use the Free Shuttle

The Sedona Shuttle runs free from the Uptown Park and Ride to Devil's Bridge and several trailheads. Parking at Devil's Bridge is nearly impossible on weekends — the shuttle solves it.

🎟️

Red Rock Pass

$5/day or $20 annual — required at most major trailheads. Get the annual pass if hiking multiple days. Available at trailhead dispensers or recreation.gov.

🍽️

Reserve Restaurants

Elote, Mariposa, and Hideaway House can be fully booked 3–5 days out on weekends. Book as soon as you know your dates.

🛒

Grocery on Arrival Day

Stop at Whole Foods or Safeway before checking in. Fully equipped kitchens mean stocking up on day one saves time and money — especially for breakfast before morning hikes.

💧

Hydrate & Sun-Protect

The desert sun at 4,500 feet is intense. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person per hike. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential.

💆

Book Lydia Early

Our recommended mobile massage therapist Lydia books quickly. Reach out to us when you check in and we'll connect you right away for an in-property massage.

📱

Download Offline Maps

Cell service disappears on several trails. Download AllTrails or Google Maps offline for your hikes before leaving the property.

🌡️

Best Seasons

Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are ideal — comfortable temps, lower crowds, dramatic skies. Summer is manageable with early hikes. Winter is beautiful and uncrowded.

🎆

Stargazing is World-Class

Sedona's dark skies and high elevation make for extraordinary stargazing from your property's deck. The Milky Way is clearly visible on clear nights June–September. No equipment needed.

🚗

You'll Need a Car

Sedona is not walkable beyond Uptown. A rental car or your own vehicle is essential for trailheads, restaurants, grocery stores, and day trips.

👨‍👩‍👧

Sedona is Great for Kids

Posse Grounds Park, Sunset Park splash pad, Slide Rock, Bearizona, and Out of Africa are all fantastic. Sedona is one of the best family destinations in the Southwest.

Our Team'sSEDONA.
GUIDE.

Sedona Shuttle

Routes & How To Ride

Dinner & Drinks

Breakfast & Coffee

Best Hikes

Sightseeing & Attractions

The Four Vortexes

Tours & Experiences

Kids & Family Fun

Wellness & Relaxation

Grocery & Essentials

Day Trips

Our Team's Insider Tips

Ready to Experience It?

Our Team'sSEDONA.GUIDE.

Sedona Shuttle

Routes & How To Ride

Dinner & Drinks

Breakfast & Coffee

Best Hikes

Sightseeing & Attractions

The Four Vortexes

Tours & Experiences

Kids & Family Fun

Wellness & Relaxation

Grocery & Essentials

Day Trips

Our Team's Insider Tips

Ready to Experience It?

Our Team'sSEDONA.
GUIDE.