A Weekend Guide to Sedona Arizona includes the best things to eat, see and do during a short visit to Red Rock Country! The guide also includes where to stay in Sedona and tips for hiking.
Last year I visited Sedona for a few hours on my way to Grand Canyon National Park. As soon as I spotted Red Rock Country, I fell in love with its’ beauty. Sedona is one of those places where you have to visit yourself to truly appreciate it. The landscape is unlike anything you have ever seen before. For our return trip to Arizona earlier this year, we planned a two night visit to Sedona to enjoy more that the area has to offer. During our visit, we hiked some of the most beautiful red rock formations, dined at some really impressive restaurants and stayed at a beautiful resort overlooking a creek. Read about our visit in my Weekend Guide to Sedona, Arizona.
Weekend Guide to Sedona, Arizona
Where to Stay in Sedona, Arizona
(1) L’Auberge de Sedona
On our drive through Sedona last year, we stopped to enjoy lunch at L’Auberge de Sedona. Not only does the resort have beautiful outdoor creekside dining, but they also have beautiful accommodations and amenities. For our weekend visit to Sedona, we booked a creekside cottage. Waking up each morning overlooking the creek was a great way to start the day.
The resort is nestled at the banks of oak creek, far below the red rock. Depending on the type of accommodations you choose, you can experience beautiful views of the red rock formations or views of the creek. Located steps from many shops and restaurants in Sedona, the resort is secluded, relaxing and peaceful.
I love that the accommodations are private cottages. They remind me of the cottages at Palmetto Bluff, luxurious but quaint. There is nothing like relaxing by a crackling fireplace in one of the most beautiful places in the country.
Where to Eat in Sedona, Arizona
(2) The Hudson Restaurant
Before making a reservation, I read numerous reviews about this new restaurant. The Hudson offers fresh and flavorful options for lunch and dinner in addition to stunning red rock views. We enjoyed dinner on the outdoor patio overlooking the red rocks. It was a little chilly the day we were there, but the restaurant has outdoor heaters to keep you warm. While the dinning room inside is chic and comfortable, do not miss the opportunity to sit on the patio. Sunset over the red rocks is something that should not be missed while in Sedona.
(3) L’Auberge de Sedona
After a stop at L’Auberge de Sedona for lunch on a previous visit, we knew we needed to go back. For breakfast we enjoyed a meal at Etch Kitchen and Bar, located right on the resort property overlooking the creek. The service, food and ambiance anywhere on the property are excellent. Grab a bite to eat for breakfast before you head out hiking the red rocks and come back for dinner where you can enjoy five star dining creekside.
(4) Tii Gavo at Enchantment Resort
Enchantment Resort is another beautiful resort located off the beaten path in Sedona. While we did not stay at the resort, I can’t wait to return for a visit in the future. The resort is nestled within the red rocks in one of the most beautiful locations in Sedona. We stopped for lunch at Tii Gavo Restaurant in between exploring the red rocks. It is the perfect place to stop for lunch and enjoy the beautiful views. We had lunch on the bar patio, but they also have indoor and outdoor dining with 180 degree views. The food was very good but the views alone are worth a visit to this restaurant!
(5) Mariposa
Mariposa Restaurant was a last minute addition to our itinerary. I read good things about the restaurant so we decided to stop in for lunch on our last day. The restaurant is located in another stunning location in Red Rock Country. With large floor to ceiling windows and a huge outdoor patio, you can enjoy beautiful views no matter where you sit. We visit on a cloudy day and you could still see the rock formations. The food was fresh and delicious so I highly recommend a visit to this restaurant for lunch or dinner.
What to do in Sedona, Arizona
I was five months pregnant when we visited Sedona so I wanted to do activities that were fun yet not too challenging. We love to hike so we chose hikes that were easy to moderate in difficulty. The trails and sites listed below are only a handful of the many options available in Sedona. One weekend is simply not enough time to enjoy all that Sedona has to offer. I hope to experience more that Sedona has to offer on a future trip. You will never be bored with so many options to choose from in Sedona!
(6) Airport Mesa & Airport Loop Trail
Everyone I spoke to before our visit and then everyone we spoke to while visiting Sedona recommended the Airport Mesa and Airport Loop Trail. You don’t even have to hike to visit the Airport Mesa. You can drive your car to the top, park and enjoy the views only steps from your car. The Airport Mesa is a great way to view much of Sedona from one location. We also hiked part of the Airport Loop Trail which loops around the airport and offers stunning views from all locations.
(7) Red Rock Loop Road
Even if you don’t like hiking, I highly recommend driving Red Rock Loop Road. You can see much of Red Rock Country from your car. Red Rock Loop Road also connects with many parks including Red Rock Crossing at Crescent Moon Ranch. Drive west on Red Rock Loop Road and then head back east to experience all that it has to offer.
(8) Red Rock Crossing & Cathedral Rock
We visited Red Rock Crossing at Crescent Moon Ranch. You have to pay a fee to enter but it is a great access point to view Cathedral Rock. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring.
(9) Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is something you have to see in person to truly understand its beauty. A beautiful church is nestled in the red rock formations. Park at the bottom and walk to the top to enjoy even more beautiful views of the red rocks. You can also drive to the top and park if you prefer not to walk.
(10) Bell Rock Trail
We visited Bell Rock Trail on our visit to Sedona last year and I knew we wanted to go back. Bell Rock is one of the first formations you will see when driving into Sedona and the trail is very easy to access. We love it because it is relatively flat for most of the trail around Bell Rock. This trail is a great option for the entire family.
This guide provides only a sample of everything to see, do and experience while visit Sedona, Arizona. It’s only been a few months since my last visit to Arizona and I am already itching to go back. There is something about the beauty of the state that holds a special place in my heart. I love Arizona and can’t wait to return for another visit soon!
Don’t miss my Mini Arizona Road Trip featuring a stop in Sedona and a drive through Red Rock Country!
I researched, planned and paid for all of these experiences on my own and was not paid to write this post. Check out more of my travel guides and experiences before you book your next trip!
What time of year have you visited and what was the weather? Currently pregnant and planning a ‘babymoon’ to Sedona this spring (March – April) when I’m about 5 months along. Loved you suggestions!
Hi, Cari! The first time we visited in September and the second time (when I was about 5 months pregnant) was in April. I preferred the April weather although both were gorgeous and I don’t really think you can go wrong any time of the year. In the spring, the weather is moderate. Congratulations and enjoy your trip!
Beautiful! I particularly would love to try the food.
My friends just moved here–I am forwarding to them and bookmarking for when I visit them 🙂