From its glowing red rocks and energy vortexes to its creative soul, a trip to Sedona, Arizona, promises transformation. Whether you’re tapping into your artsy side or recharging your spirit, here's how to spend the day in town!
LessPump House Station Urban Eatery & Market sets the tone in a cozy, cottage-style space that blends rustic vintage charm with contemporary artistry. Sip a pour-over coffee—or a refreshing cold brew—and add one of the house-made syrups. Rotating displays of local photography and plein-air paintings line the walls, and when the weather cooperates, you can dine under the sycamores on the shady patio.
Wander Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village (pronounced Tla-keh-PAH-keh), a lovingly crafted open-air complex modeled after a traditional Mexican village. Cobblestone walkways, vine-clad arches, and adobe-brick buildings house vibrant art galleries. Pop into Creative Gateways, which often hosts live glass-blowing demonstrations or hands-on classes. On the first Friday of each month, Tlaquepaque throws an evening art walk with meet-and-greets.
Tuck into a leisurely lunch at Secret Garden Café, hidden in one of Tlaquepaque’s lush courtyards. Surrounded by fountains, flowers, and sculptures, savor organic dishes such as the garden veggie burger or chicken-poblano club, paired with prickly-pear lemonade.
Dive into Sedona’s pioneer roots at the Sedona Heritage Museum, located in the 1930s Jordan family homestead. Explore historic wagons, blacksmith tools, and orchard equipment, then peek inside the Telegraph Office—once part of an old movie set—to browse film memorabilia that recalls the town’s days as “Arizona’s Little Hollywood.”
Art awaits at Goldenstein Gallery, a perennial “Best Gallery” winner that represents more than fifty acclaimed artists. If you’re looking for guidance, ask about the gallery’s personalized art consultation services. And if you find yourself at L’Auberge de Sedona, look for Goldenstein’s rotating outdoor sculpture exhibits.
Enjoy a meal and live music at Bella Vita Ristorante. Terracotta walls, stained-glass windows, and an expansive patio combine to create an old-world elegance. Indulge in house-made fettuccine, meatballs, or pillowy potato gnocchi, then linger over tiramisu or cannoli while local musicians set the mood.
Rise before dawn and head to the Airport Mesa Vortex, one of Sedona’s most accessible energy centers. A short, easy climb brings you to an overlook where first light paints the red rocks gold. Bring a blanket or meditation cushion, and arrive 20–30 minutes before sunrise—parking is limited, especially in spring and fall.
Refuel at Local Juicery, where everything is organic and crafted for holistic health. Fan favorites include the Blue Majik Bowl, Avocado Toast, and Golden Latte; grab a Matcha Mylk or Root + Rise juice for later.
Lunch awaits at ChocolaTree Organic Eatery, a bohemian hideaway with a leafy garden courtyard dotted with crystals and statues. Try the Corn Enchilada, Saffron Coconut Dahl, or Avocado Herb Sandwich, and pick up sacred jewelry, adaptogenic elixirs, or house-made cacao truffles in the shop.
Slow down with a forest-bathing (shinrin-yoku) session in Red Rock State Park. On a guided walk with Sedona Ascension Retreats—or a private riverside meditation arranged through the L’Auberge spa—let the juniper groves and crimson cliffs restore your nervous system.
Finally, toast your transformative day at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, where earthy interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows frame the red rocks. Start with flaky empanadas, then savor grilled skirt steak or Scottish trout with a decadent side of triple-queso mac and cheese. Raise a Pisco Sour—or Mariposa’s signature cocktail—to Sedona’s magic.