Edited byKari Molvar Set in Arizona’s desert wilderness yet thriving with arts and culture Sedona continuously draws travelers thanks to its majestic red rocks plentiful outdoor activities and mild climate As Forbes Vetted’s senior travel editor—and an avid traveller myself—I selected the best hotels in Sedona that reflect the area’s outstanding natural beauty Pool at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona. Vista Cottage bahroom at L'Auberge de Sedona. Guest room at Ambiente Hotel in Sedona, Arizona. Spa Lounge at Mii Amo in Sedona, Arizona. Wilde Haven Spa at The Wilde Resort and Spa in Sedona, Arizona. Pool area at Hilton Sedona Resort At Bell Rock. Saltrock Southwest Kitchen at Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona, Arizona. Terrace with infinity pool at Sundance the property has earned a 4.99 rating on the platform along with the distinction of being a guest favorite—and it’s not hard to see why Set on two private acres of land that feels quiet and serene three-and-a-half-bath home sleeps up to six people and is tailor-made for spending time soaking up the sun with friends or loved ones An outdoor terrace offers a retractable awning heat lamps and a fireplace—not to mention a jetted hot tub and a resort-style infinity pool The property is also near trails and shopping and conveniently features its own infrared sauna the perfect spot to relax sore muscles after a challenging hike Sedona is filled with exhilarating activities that can be enjoyed solo Here are a few standout experiences you can book to make the most out of your time in the area The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities worldwide My name is Astrid Taran and I’m the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor Along with extensively writing about hotels and airlines I have also written multiple destination guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel Sedona is one of my favorite destinations in the country and I have visited multiple times over the years for hikes rock climbing and delicious Southwestern cuisine I selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research Springtime is the best time of year to go to Sedona; the months of March April and May offer comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers It’s a great time to enjoy outdoor excursions from scenic hikes to horseback riding to ATV tours but keep in mind that this season is also the busiest make sure to book your accommodations in advance This area is Sedona’s central hub and lined with shops It’s walkable and there are shuttle buses available as well which is slightly north of Uptown and a bit quieter Many of the hotels on our list accommodate pets and the area offers hundreds of miles of trails that allow on-leash dogs Just make sure to keep plenty of water on hand Derby Day Parties, Celebrity Dinners, Unlimited Tacos, and More Special Dinners, May 2025 The Best New Restaurants in Las Vegas, May 2025 Where to Find the Best Tacos in Las Vegas and creekside pork chops in the staggeringly scenic desert destination Sedona might be best known for its awe-inspiring red rocks mysticism (ever-present in the abundance of crystal shops) and various outdoor activities — from the natural water slide at Slide Rock to the daring Devil’s Bridge hike — but it’s also a hotspot for great restaurants locals and travelers alike can dine at high-end hotels all the restaurants that encompass the Sedona-based and nationally lauded Dahl Restaurant Group but here are Eater’s must-try places around the town tucked inside Sedona’s storied Enchantment Resort and locals seasonal menus and — more importantly panoramic views of the city’s mystical red rocks you’ll find daytime dishes like açai bowls and superfoods-packed scrambled egg whites; dinner might feature basil oil-spiked risotto since the room can get full for special occasions Wildly popular Elote Cafe moved into the heart of Sedona with chef and owner Jeff Smedstad’s menu culled from 20-plus years of travel across Oaxaca Dishes like lamb adobo with an ancho chile sauce smoked pork cheeks with cascabel chile sauce and buffalo mole poblano make for a meal to remember Save space on the table for Mexican chocolate pie for dessert The Cowboy Club’s long history started in 1946 when it opened as a saloon and pool hall that attracted Hollywood’s western stars from Burt Lancaster and John Wayne to Donna Reed and Joan Crawford while they filmed in the red rocks of Sedona The restaurant offers a must-try pecan-smoked prime rib on weekends but all week long you can opt for the elk chops or bison pot roast on the dinner menu there’s nowhere quite like Cress on Oak Creek The fine dining restaurant is nestled right next to the babbling creek and surrounded by stunning greenery The charming atmosphere is complemented by attentive service and a menu of unique items that include crispy octopus with stewed white beans and Spanish chorizo and roasted quail with a brioche and grape stuffing chef Lisa Dahl created a restaurant empire in Sedona A filet mignon comes with a Gorgonzola chipotle sauce while the seafood options include the jumbo grilled tiger shrimp and diver sea scallops House specialties include pollo rustico with charred corn and roasted potatoes and a steelhead salmon finished with earthy mushrooms The only thing that might outdo the food is the view This locals’ favorite brings a taste of the coast to the mountains of Sedona with a salmon mignon Other favorites include the skirt steak with red chimichurri sauce with a variety of mouthwatering options like the white peach sangria Dine on one of Hideaway Houses’ three open-air patios each nestled among the trees with views of Sedona’s red rocks This cozy treehouse-style restaurant serves fresh takes on pizza with special attention merited for the roasted peach and pancetta pizza with seasoned ricotta and the date night salad pizza with prosciutto Coffee Pot is the spot to go for a casual meal in friendly surroundings Kids will love their selection of wild and wonderful omelets (they famously offer 101 options.) Visitors can also enjoy classic diner fare like waffles Tortas de Fuego offers a pretty broad menu that includes quesadillas These sizable sandwiches come stacked with lettuce plus generous portions of proteins like chorizo Pisa Lisa offers pizza for fueling up after a long day of hiking Chef Lisa Dahl has built a menu of familiar favorites and shareable Italian plates like burrata caprese and antipasti Chef Lisa Dahl serves Italian dishes from her childhood at Dahl and Di Luca Ristorante Italiano Dahl makes her grandmother’s tortellini with prosciutto and green peas in an Alfredo sauce vegetarian portobello mushroom grilled in a house marinade and salmon with a Neapolitan limoncello reduction sauce Live jazz and a deep wine list round out the experience and burgers comprise the menu at the Golden Goose American Grille Diners can find filling dishes like hash brown-crusted Scottish salmon A local’s favorite is the smokehouse bacon cheeseburger Tucked inside the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village find Rene a French restaurant for nearly 45 years with lunch and dinner worthy of any special occasion Chilean sea bass with tomato-saffron sauce and Kvaroy Arctic salmon with pickled green tomato chili relish at dinner are just some of its star dishes counter-service Mexican restaurant that specializes in tamales and options change based on what’s in season The restaurant’s outdoor seating provides access to epic vistas This neighborhood gem has an industrial-chic dining room and deck overlooking the red rocks of Sedona Mark and Lisa Shugrue opened the Hudson in 2015 and brought on chef Jeff Storcz to create sophisticated comfort food and chicken scaloppini are some of the favorites here 16 Restaurants and Bars Serving Up Spectacular City Views loungey atmosphere that stands out in Sedona Go for the signature Butterfly Burger with Manchego cheese or try something new like the Mowee Wowee — a teriyaki sauce-slathered mahi-mahi filet with wasabi ginger sauce and grilled pineapple pair it with the cheese-smothered street tots Az — Sedona residents will soon face an important decision regarding Proposition 483 Let’s clarify what this proposition entails the City of Sedona acquired over 40 acres in West Sedona known as the “Culture Park” or the Western Gateway with a decaying wooden structure that once served as an outdoor concert arena The arena operated as a summer entertainment venue for about three years before going bankrupt and closing in 2003 The city’s intention in purchasing this land was clear: to address the critical need for rental housing in our community only 4% of Sedona’s housing is available for rent while most towns have at least 20% of their housing as rental apartments The Sedona City Council decided to hire an external planning and development company to guide the planning of this property will involve community input and a lengthy review before any projects can be initiated Last spring, about 6 acres of the land, hidden away from highway view were rezoned to be used as a two-year “Safe Place to Park” for employees working in Sedona who were sleeping in their vehicles this initiative was a temporary solution to give local families an alternative to sleeping in unsafe conditions along with the proliferation of short-term rentals removing housing from the market have made renting in Sedona expensive and challenging for many in the service industry These employees are the backbone of Sedona’s businesses and are essential to maintaining the quality of life we a group of newcomers to Sedona has proposed a different vision They argue that the old Culture Park site should once again become home to a defunct 5,000-seat outdoor entertainment venue rather than be used for housing and other community benefits This group is actively campaigning against the “Safe Place to Park,” spreading misinformation and fear about an invasion of the “homeless” to garner support for their entertainment venue proposal and to slow down the city council approved the two-year zoning change for the “Safe Place to Park,” but the push from this new group for a massive event venue and the rescinding of the temporary zoning led to the collection of signatures and the placement of this issue on the November ballot as a referendum Sedona voters must decide whether to prioritize tourism or support local housing solutions and now a small group of newcomers is trying to overturn a decision that supports our community’s needs “No good deed goes unpunished.” Let’s focus on what’s best for our community and vote YES on Prop 483 Only lie is that a de funked music venue will somehow magically come back as a popular venue (nobody but locals will play and attend)and benefit Sedona more than it would if it had been turned into a safe park for Sedona’s unhoused Employees Is this the best you can come up with to fight the will of the people who do not want a homeless car park doesn’t think this is a good solution either as quoted by him in The Guardian on 4/6/24 that “It’s a sucky idea actually.” This issue has become known as Jablow’s Folly The City is perpetuating its lie it is just for workers by tugging at your heartstrings The City’s FAQ states that “disabled” and “retired” people will also be admitted and “retired” young people living the “nomad lifestyle.” In addition there will be no criminal backkground checks No Indeminification/ Hold Harmelss required against suing the City and no solutions or services provided for permanent housing These funds could be used to provide dignity by furnishing ACTUAL ROOFS NOT CAR ROOFS for unverified hard data for 40 people for 2 years This is the summary cost of Jablow’s Folly taken directly from the ADOH grant approval which are anticipated to increase: PROPOSITION 483 TEXT – REFERENDUM ORDERED BY PETITION OF THE PEOPLE OFFICIAL TITLE: Petition refers Sedona Ordinance No as approved by the Sedona City Council on March 12 to the City’s voters for their rejection or approval The Ordinance approves a change to the current “Planned Development zoning of Yavapai County Assessor’s Parcel 408-47-009A (located northwest of the intersection of W State Route 89A and Cultural Park Place) by adding the City’s “Safe Place to Park” Program as a permitted use of the parcel through June 30 DESCRIPTIVE TITLE: Voters will approve or reject Ordinance 2024-01 approving the City’s zoning change of Parcel 408-47-009A (a six-acre City-owned parcel located northwest of SR89A and Cultural Park Place) for the City’s “Safe Place to Park” Program as a permitted use of the parcel through June 30 A “NO” vote shall have the effect of rejecting Sedona City Ordinance No 2024-01 that was approved by Sedona City Council on March 12 for the zoning change of Parcel 408-47-009A (located northwest of the intersection of W State Route 89A and Cultural Park Place) by adding the City’s “Safe Place to Park” Program as a permitted use of the parcel through June 30 The City is perpetuating their lie it is just for workers by tugging at your heartstrings The City’s FAQ states that “disabled” and “retired” people will also be admitted and “retired” young people living the “nomad lifestyle.” Sean – Go to the FAQ’s on the City’s website and see #4 and those who cannot be employed because they are retired or disabled… The ADA Federal guidelines considers alcohol & drug substance abuse as dissabilities The City admitted that they can’t restrict this to workers during the January 2024 City Council Meeting because they accepted a state grant by ADOH which is federally funded by HUD A person of any age who does not work could be classified as “retired” as the City does not define what a retired person is No criminal background checks will be performed No requirement to sign a Hold Harmless and Indemnification Waiver against lawsuits No services or solutions provided that would result in a path to permanent housing Local State and Federal Laws would apply to anyone in or around such a facility and would be enforced at any location chosen as housing just as it would be with anyone anywhere else So what if retirees or disabled persons who work in our town would be permitted access as needed And yes some may be people struggling with addiction just like many other Americans who have homes are But so long as they follow the law and are contributing to our town via employment how would that harm you exactly state and federal laws WOULD absolutely apply to these folks just as they do you the City Attorney is on camera admitting exactly this at a council mtg But they CAN lie to cover up what most residents would absolutely say no to by calling it a place for workers to park overnight TJ – My Christian value is putting a roof over one’s head some things you can do quickly and other take time,money and planning Well If you call yourself a good Christian I sure hope you dont vote for anyone in the GOP West Sedona Dave – Plenty of planning was done.The City proposed the options of a voucher program of subsidized rental vouchers a year ago It’s a pity that sheeple can’t comprehend beyond their party lines It’s a pity that sheeple can’t comprehend beyond their party lines.“ “Sheeple” are people who join cults and organized Harry Potter like fantasy book organized religions not those who are intelligent and independent minded enough to know better You won get that roof and yet you’ll refuse the park which is far better than living in a bush or out in the boonies where law enforcement will run you off as soon as they find you You’re not getting the Ritz Carlton so screw Holiday Inn right There is a plan just waiting to be discovered that will serve all interests and leave no one’s behind Is anybody interested in moving beyond the limitations of the yes/no mentality let’s do our best to take care of those who need a hand up Keeping our brothers and sisters “safe” should be everybody’s priority Maybe the people who have issues with that should spend a few weeks sleeping in their cars to see what that’s like That would probably end any disagreements right then and there Mary Ellen – Why should anyone have to sleep in their cars at all Don’t you think a better use of the two years $1.25 Million ADOH grant funding would provide dignity to the 40 people idenitified by furnishing ACTUAL ROOFS Vouchers could be issued to subsidize rent in a Not-To-Exceed amount of $15,600 per person for 1 year for 80 people or $15,600 per person per year for 2 years for 40 people (totaling $31,200) Instead of spending money to recreate the Cultural Park why not use the money to build low income housing and/or rental properties for our workers? What’s preposterous is not helping our un housed EMPLOYEES whether it’s a car park or a brick building you are 100% against helping folks the private employers of these folks have every right to take care of them The city does not have any obligation to provide housing for private employees And the tax payer certainly should not be made to cover the extra costs that the local employers should be incurring in wages or housing https://sedonavotes.com/ Is NOT evidence it is Opinion and nothing more The fact that a lame duck council spent $10 million in cash and borrowed $13 million for a property with ZERO plan in mind should tell you all you need to know The Cultural Park has had several owners that have had decent proposals including workforce housing traffic and the normal anti development rhetoric But now….all that is forgotten that the city has jumped in and added 40 acres to the 600 + that they already own The city owns 200+ acres at the Dells 6 miles out of town development and some local shopping for the residents was ignored Just think how far a partnership with a developer could have gone with $23 million dollars And now we own a hard to build on uneven rocky piece of dirt The chances that the stage venue may come back But ignoring similar car parks around the west that have attracted drug dealers human trafficking and other issues is burying your head in the sand For $23 million you could work with existing businesses who have employees without homes and subsidize rents Enchantment has bought houses in Cottonwood to provide affordable housing for employees Remember this is a city that budgeted $2.7 million for Forest Road which is up to $12 million And a tansit system that is promoting bicycles and walking from the two core roads 179 and 89a where all terrain goes straight up a mountain or down a mountain You cannot build housing upon active or even in active human fece fields You do realize that entire area is highly contaminated The lawsuits would rapidly bankrupt the entire town Why do you think the Pact Act was passed for GI’s exposed to toxins Because you cannot have humans intentionally exposed to toxins and not face legal ramifications for it Unless of course it is done to our precious Indigenous tribes we continue to contaminate with uranium and who knows what else to this very day Not a very intelligent alternative or idea My understanding is that a cease and desist was sent during this policy discussion to prevent talking about the A+ water that is sprayed at the Dells as toxic or sewage water This is water that has been through the entire Wastewater Treatment Facility and has been classified as A+ quality water If you have different information about that water being less than A+ and that the city is lying to us please post it here so we can confront the city on this The water treatment facility 100 meters from them you mean The water coming to your tap I am certain is potable and fully treated What I am referring to is the quality of the soil and water surrounding the treatment facility where the water with sewage (you can often smell from 89A) in it is being pumped into lines sprayed over trees and ground cover and then seeps into the soil as a natural form of filtration like a ceramic water filter and then seeps into the “ponds” or dells as you call them where the water settles then is pumped into chemically treated tanks then pumped to your homes I never said anything about our home drinking water quality Its incredible what they do and the water being sprayed you can drink just not treated with chlorine and other things But ignoring similar car parks around the west that have attracted drug dealers Which car parks specifically have attracted drug dealers Please provide bonafide media links for this Locations by name and arrest stories that accompany them X or anything like them as they are not news they are propaganda “The chances that the stage venue may come back Are they eating peoples cats and dogs as well Such hysteria you spew just like your stupid ex POTUS Maddock offers Sedona the best of times and the worst of times in the ongoing dispute between the Chamber of Commerce destination marketing program and its local government control in a tale of one city Sedona AZ – The following phrase suggesting radical opposites is from the opening paragraph of the famous Charles Dickens’ novel Considering the number of ongoing disputes here in Sedona (perhaps beginning but most assuredly not the ending) was the idea of becoming an incorporated city Of course that argument was settled by the voters and the City of Sedona designation became official However one ongoing tug of war has existed and continues to this day and it is the extent to which the Sedona Chamber of Commerce has controlled local government Logically it stands to reason that a member-driven non-profit organization should not be playing the role of acting as a tail wagging the dog (City of Sedona)… especially since its primary function is to serve Chamber of Commerce members many located outside the “city limits” and thus are unauthorized to vote or allegedly make viable decisions within incorporated Sedona boundaries However a huge mistake occurred at the time Sedona was seeking a source for a “destination marketing” contract and instead of following the guidelines set forth to obtain bids by way of RFP (Requests for Proposals) and under intense opposition a contract was approved with what realistically was the “regional” Chamber of Commerce and war This conflict quite possibly has recently been resolved by the Chamber of Commerce giving written notice they would not be renewing its contract as Sedona’s official Designated Management Organization (DMO) they recognize Sedona residents and respect City Limits as their jurisdiction They have also expressed interest and intent to cooperate with regards to the spirit of regional communication and indicate willingness to seek and share ideas with other Verde Valley communities but at the same time always to respect the limitations of their jurisdiction the Sedona City Council has graciously spoken well of the Sedona Chamber of Commerce while at the same time maintaining their position relating to the current differences of opinion existing regarding goals and direction of a DMO (Destination Marketing Organization) under which the Sedona Chamber of Commerce had been under contract That apparently was the basis by which the C of C made their decision to not renew the contract with Sedona Conflicts between Sedona Arizona residents and its city councils began after a council awarded a destination marketing contract to a local non-profit membership-driven organization tasked with promoting its paid members businesses and commercial interests The contract’s negative impact on city residents quality of life issues before resulted in contentious local elections and city council meetings after newly elected city council members joined existing the Chamber program was agendized for discussion Because as it appears the transition of a DMO will revert to where many think it should have been in the first place a great deal of thought and logical strategy is being considered particularly from the newer faces on City Council beginning but not ending with hiring a professional consultant for direction City Council members display a sincere desire to support the premise that tourism needs to have a positive result The majority of the city council members favor taking a slower approach while the mayor stated that he “Can’t support waiting.” Was expressing the need to work for “all Sedona residents and businesses” in fact a confirmed admission that during years gone by residents have been shunned and perceivably treated like irrelevant nuisances Is it fair to relate the overblown credit bestowed upon the Chamber of Commerce and Lodging Council as being the direct source of Sedona’s tax revenue unprofessional pursuits actually been the cause resulting in out of control tourism creating overuse and disintegration of our most spectacular attraction as well as local quality of life being shunned in the process Is it the obligation of Sedona government to promote businesses Hasn’t too much time already been wasted on a “messy relationship” with the Chamber of Commerce It was suggested and agreed upon that most likely it will be good for the Chamber to do their own thing because their vision is not the same as that of incorporated Sedona which as presently stated is to “work for Sedona residents and businesses.” Residents should no longer be shunned and treated like second-class citizens or flatlanders With the task of tackling the logical decision to relocate the official DMO under the roof at Sedona City Hall a new focus will be directed on the beauty of the area with a realistic approach and recognition of its capacity and thus indicating the need to include a method of educating our visitors “Brand Sedona” and allow the Chamber of Commerce to deal with commercialization to benefit its members The suggestion of an Advisory Board consisting of both residential and business participation to work in conjunction with the proposed hiring of a consultant was well received Newer members on the Sedona City Council were prudent in inquiring about return on investments To-date nothing has been made available to speak to the success or failure of the contract with the Chamber of Commerce was the end result merely the extensive miles of backed up traffic use and participation of the newly created Sedona Transit System it seems logical to accept that certain changes will result in perhaps “the best of times” for some while for others they will complain about suffering through “the worst of times.” when seeking an answer about Sedona’s investment in the transit system perhaps the answer will not be known unless transparency is practiced By establishing an appropriate Sedona City Designated Management Organization and to include an “official” City of Sedona Visitors Center to rightfully represent ALL Sedona licensed businesses won’t the City of Sedona finally revert to being the “dog” who rightfully takes control of wagging its own “tail” Trending on social media and news: “ARIZONA WOMAN HELPED NORTH KOREA SCAM 300 U.S Christina Chapman of Arizona pleaded guilty to running a laptop farm that helped North Korean IT workers pose as Americans The scheme funneled millions to Pyongyang while unsuspecting firms thought they were hiring local talent The Justice Department warns this should be a wake-up call for businesses hiring remote workers hear you @Ukraine peace means Russia can’t benefit from warmongering and support of Hamas after murdering millions of innocent babies babas and tatas including Europeans including Americans that were there Russia must pay a severe price for peace economically and socially It must rebuild Ukraine out of its pockets not Europe Chinese and hired conscripts murdering for it IMO and common sense says Ukraine gets Crimea that Obama gave Russia Billions of dollars clawed back from thieves and incompetents and bureaucracy by Dept of Gvt Efficiency & whose screaming but thieves and incompetents!!!!!!!! People know President Trump and Elon Musk are on a caring for America team OK got it the IRS should stop auditing taxpayers if it’s such a bad idea Anybody else think Schumer is a con artist DNCC cut out of trust after firing staffers and not paying them cause Biden Harris took all the money and Buttigieg was the worst overseer almost in EVER NO FAA controllers were even disciplined or fired since Trump admin formed Blame Democrats for everything that’s wrong with FAA now like they blame Canada Kash Patel needs your support to get confirmed by the Senate Call and demand AZ Senators support Patel or be racist and tell Arizona Hobbs she’s out of touch with her woke pro illegal agenda views and if she doesn’t remove illegals on state voter polls editors?What’s status of paper ballots as rule of land?Computer experts in government agencies and private sectors say computers way easily hacked with past evidence as proof Schumer power crazy _him dancing with Pakistan flags after news Pakistan hotel got millions for putting up illegals but NYC veterans moved in shelters broadcast corruption of NY politicians Never stop following where money cashed out _publish Epstein list Sure right your President’s cabinet best in decades +++++ Sedona hearing Kash Patel faces massive corruption inside his new agency disappointment hearing government is badly corrupted Democrat party is contaminated and unAmerican noooooooo fundraisers for democrats in Arizona Knowing 28K homes across America with investor rent to own models not working because tenants not good and facts suppressed by last government media Do some homework before you pass tax money around We don’t give you permission to spend tax money But won’t tolerate Democrats and we’re taking names who stands up to shout down in disrespect sit down Democrats we might vote for you almost never The Democrats not standing for First Lady is unconscionable 100$$$Billions added this month in America’s treasury chest Team Trump abortion groups they sell baby body parts and baby body fluids for profit What insanity does MY Democrat Party applaud Hamas terrorists not being deported or Venezuelan Gang members not being deported ? Woke psychos need to be deported to join those they support in Gaza and Venezuela Gas is down 42 cents since February and eggs 47% since January and reciprocal tariffs are proven a great tool she’s far superior at every single level or Kari Lake another superior both known vote getters with style and power Police must stop lack of respect on campuses use wallet power to rid city of democrats businesses Secretary Noem says Don’t EFFING COME TO THIS COUNTRY EVER AND WE WILL DEPORT YOU If one local joins anti Musk Tesla actions we wish you horrible consequences in your life and wallets and arrests and if you own businesses your business deserve to be targeted like Tesla and if you work for a business you deserve to get fired DOGE found the government will be insolvent in 3 years The tax money won’t matter if it’s not spent wisely to protect Social Security and Medicare and Medicaid now and we are racing toward insolvency Taxes paid billions of dollars to fund a National Park Online Survey of 10 Questions asking if you liked or visited national parks DOGE member and Airbnb founder said on news it should have cost a few hundred dollars Secondly every single response was not useful because it didn’t matter as the data was never useful or used or shared Find out what DOGE has discovered and why they’re being threatened by people like Elizabeth Warren How many County and City online and paper surveys are feel goods not do goods while betting money city and county uses money to “pay” for them and who gets money get AI engineers to replace paper processors and staffs Ate breakfast out when dollar egg surcharge for Eggs appeared on check without comment . even when giving order that it would appear Notice to (deleted by editor) we’ll spread the ripoff news because we know what costs are Find local egg growers happy to sell priced same as last years Biden Harris super inflation prices their awful ratings prove lack of credibility Question for Congress and Interior or Park service or whatever states groups we gifted a billion dollars for pretend Park service jobs and upkeep/ phony ways to rob us and pay Tom dick and harry to not provide it to the parks or its workers but channeled thru to keep bureaucrats pushing paper for nothing How did DC and state and local politicians and their cronies benefit from this money fraud abuse heist ngo climate scams Demand payouts be traced and publish reports on who what where why how when received every cent of our tax money because rangers we know say Biden-Harris-Obama-DEI-inflation has clogged toilets caused deaths for inadequate maintenance and sanitation signs posted can’t be read by illegally here illiterates no matter what language they speak and entitled people without morals or virtues or ethics run the paper show from state and federal offices My daughter’s English teacher gave a class assignment with “The world has embraced transsexuals from the beginning of written word Shakespeare was a transsexual and promoted it on stage and in his writings What transsexuals do you know and why are you impressed by their bravery in America’s racist society?” Several of us are getting lawyers to demand the removal of this unintelligent person and a review of its administration qualifications in a class action lawsuit and two civil suits with notes to sue and demands to get back to qualified teachers and demands on student performance Time to give Canada a taste of its own pill Auto dealerships saying tariffs will have no impact on their prices but he’s supposed to have a magic wand and correct four years of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’s economic policies Schumer lost the ability to be a decent person pretending he doesn’t know Kamala Harris got more support from more billionaires and from Wall Street and from Legacy Media than Trump or that Elon Musk provided to Trump’s campaign Our astronauts were rescued from impending death by SpaceX and you better teach your kids what a blessing Musk has been to space travel and electric vehicles AZ politician Mark Kelly doesn’t have decency about this gigantic leap of tech that NASA couldn’t do or Boeing Let me ask you Democrats why is it that electric bills never decrease even after switching out to LED bulbs soil destroying solar farms and bird killing wind farms I see no future usable food producing fields and can’t read the damn print on a book or food A person damages Teslas gets federal charges for domestic terrorism Or how about your GOP run corporate committee has no problem allowing them to raise are rates Have you ever thought about getting your news and information from real news sites or do you like to sound like uneducated fools since Reagan We watched news Argentina agreed to drop their rates to zero and President Trump’s tarrif team dropped tarrifs on Argentina Our fave Malbec wines come from Argentina and we’ll stock up lots when price drops Oz given medicaire and medicaid corruption to fix XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong> An official website of the United States government Noted as one of the most spectacular red rock locations in the United States feels like a mini-national park thanks to its vast array of hiking and mountain-biking trails winding amongst the stunning formations Sedona offers panoramic views and excursions from all points more than 300 miles of public hiking and biking trails and nearly two million acres of national forest there’s plenty to fill up an active client’s itinerary Uptown and West Sedona are the two major sections of town where visitors can discover accommodations art galleries and nearby trailheads that lead to red rock vistas the scenic paradise has morphed into more of an all-weather playground rather than a winter snowbird escape The increased visitation has led to new property openings while others are in the process of renovating and/or enhancing their wellness and excursion offerings plus initiatives to encourage visitor stewardship with the environment and local culture Active clients are also spoiled when it comes to accommodations that cater to their desire for adventure Following are three properties that are either new or recently renovated — and are located in the heart of the action Clients can check out one of the complimentary (for hotel guests only) Trek mountain bikes from the fitness center and then pedal a mile on bike paths to Snoopy Rock or explore off-road guests can head back for a CBD-enhanced spa treatment or to lounge at the pool facing Snoopy Rock and Cleopatra Red Rock Formation Recreation and rejuvenation — that’s what Sedona’s newest hotel property emphasizes to guests who stay at the 105-room boutique hotel and spa the location offers a breathtaking vista of the famous red rock formation Clients attending meetings will be pleased to discover 5,640 square feet of combined indoor and outdoor meeting and event space including a rooftop area to enjoy the scenery Besides easy access to trailheads such as Sugar Loaf and Soldier's Pass for mountain biking and hiking there is no shortage of recreational opportunities that the hotel can arrange for guests in the great outdoors Clients can rejuvenate after recreating with a spa treatment at the full service The Wilde Haven Spa as well as enjoy some meditative solitude at the healing garden and a walking labyrinth Evening activities include stargazing and storytelling around the fire pits or relaxing while enjoying the scenery from the property’s Rangeview Rooftop Canyon walls surround the highly acclaimed luxury resort spread across 70 acres within Boynton Canyon The serene natural beauty of the environment adds to the many wellness fitness and outdoor programs for guests to explore while on property the property has undergone a variety of renovations and new additions including a contemporary southwestern redesign of the 218 casita-style guestrooms and suites Legendary Mii amo Spa is under complete renovation and will reopen in spring 2022 clients can still enjoy the Mii amo experience while staying at Enchantment’s Spa Suites And the newest arrival on property is The Trail House the resort’s adventure and activity center assisting resort guests with outdoor hiking and biking adventures As more clients discover the fun of outdoor activities the opening of the Trail House could not come at a better time There are 28 expert advisors who specialize in creating guided or self-guided hiking mountain biking or an e-bike experience geared toward the ability level and interests of the client a new “Little Shredders” mountain bike camp is offered twice a week for kids ages 8-15 Copyright © 2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ 07070 USA | Telephone: (201) 902-2000 Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations The 30 best countries, cities and regions to visit in 2025 Plan your trip with Elsewhere, by Lonely Planet See where a Lonely Planet Membership takes you Subscribe to our weekly newsletters to get the latest travel news, expert advice, and insider recommendations Explore the world with our detailed, insightful guidebooks Stay ahead of the curve with our guidebooks Uncover exciting new ways to explore iconic destinations Every month, we release new books into the wild Search Search Close search menu Explore Best in Travel 2024 Africa Close menu Countries Antarctica Antarctica Close menu Regions Asia Asia Close menu Countries Australia & the Pacific Australia & the Pacific Close menu Countries The Caribbean The Caribbean Close menu Countries Central America Central America Close menu Countries Europe Europe Close menu Countries Middle East Middle East Close menu Countries North America North America Close menu Countries South America South America Close menu Countries 2016: Visitors enjoying the beauty of Slide Rock State Park with its natural rock water slides in the Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona.; Shutterstock ID 619981541; your: Tasmin Waby; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online Editorial; full: Demand Project Although Sedona is famed for its vast array of desert and forest trails, swimming holes, natural land bridges and red rock monoliths, its smattering of city parks offer a different type of appeal Most are backdropped by Sedona’s infinite views and offer easily accessible swaths of space for kids and adults alike to enjoy toss the bocce ball on the grass or sit in solitude you’ll find it in Sedona’s best city parks This massive recreational area (almost 80 acres) in West Sedona is the ultimate gathering place to get active. Posse Grounds Park became Sedona’s first city park when the area was no longer used by its namesake sheriff’s posse Surrounded by the ever-present limestone edifices the vast area is carved up into mini parks for skateboarding Expect to see yogis or picnickers using the shady pavilions people playing tennis or pickleball in the courts and organized teams on the soccer and softball fields Top 10 things to do in Sedona At 27 acres, the Sedona Wetlands Preserve offers excellent opportunities to discover the diversity of desert animals plus reptiles and different species of birds Located about three miles from the turnoff for Red Rock State Park on 89A the preserve was created in partnership with the Sedona Wastewater Treatment facility The wetlands are composed of six basins filled with 9.6 million gallons of water It’s a helpful way to support Sedona’s wildlife and migratory birds Stretching 14 acres among the junipers and pinyon pines, the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is a sanctuary in the desert the park features two stupas (a type of shrine) and trails that weave among the junipers; one leads to a meditation wheel made of stone inviting a sense of spirituality and solitude in this public park covered meditation platform with chairs provides respite from the sun and a head-on view of the 36ft Amitabha Stupa Beyond sits a large Buddha and distant views of Chimney Rock The park is free to enter and open to anyone looking for meditation and the experience of peace." 10 free things to do in Sedona Nature and art come together in Sedona Botanical Garden a small park situated barely a block off route 89A in West Sedona but its impressive design includes live-sized sculptures of javelina Look out for the roadrunners and coyotes that mingle among the native plants and trees The botanical garden is also a great example of Sedona’s community coming together: plants and interpretive signs were donated by organizations and residents Spread across almost seven and a half acres, Sunset Park sits in a residential area of West Sedona with pathways connecting to a number of trailheads each smartly earmarked for kids over or under five as well as a grassy area to stretch out on a blanket to watch the kids on the “tot lot” or take in the views How to explore Sedona's diverse neighborhoods The small military park honors the greater Sedona veterans of the US military; names are engraved on granite walls in the service park area Among the park’s desert plants and leafy trees are sculptural pieces including a bronze relief of Jameson and Invocation a life-sized sculpture of an Indigenous Teysha man moves from Hillside Shopping Center to the Safeway Shopping Plaza in West Sedona After serving the footwear needs of Sedona women as well as men for the past nine years the time has come for A STEP UP to put on its walking shoes and mosey on down to its new store bigger and more beautiful than the one it leaves behind Boasting between 25 to 30 brands of the finest women’s shoes available anywhere co-owner Karen Dilks continues with her life-long passion They’re not just soles; they’re a symbol of self-expression We’re talking about the kind of shoes that turn heads our local shoe-whisperer with sister Laura Digtes sums it up: “Shoes aren’t just an accessory; they’re an identity we don’t just sell shoes; we’re matchmakers,” she says. To pair you with that one shoe that changes everything We get it; life’s too short for uncomfortable shoes.” Karen’s fascination with shoes began at a very young age “I discovered early in life that the quality and comfort of the European Market They are far superior in source of materials and construction unlike Americans tend to walk more in their lifestyle so they have always designed more comfortable shoes My sister Laura has always loved shoes and travels the world extensively so shoes an important factor in exploring the world the love for shoes is expressed in all that I do.” When Karen shops for shoes for her store she does so with the most discerning eye for taste I can try on styles and test for fit and comfort I visualize my local customers and what they are wearing and try to find the styles to suit their lifestyle.” Karen prides herself in the uniqueness of style her store brings to the table “I think our shop is unique in the quality and comfort of the shoes we carry,” she said.” I like shoes that are unique comfortable and compliment the occasion in which they are bought for We can provide happy feet in all day walking She and her staff are always friendly and ready to help their customers find the perfect fit “I understand how everyone’s foot and style is unique,” she said “My goal always is to find the perfect shoe for my customers My staff is well-trained in every avenue of selling shoes All of us at A STEP UP are just crazy about shoes and that love is expressed in finding our customers the perfect shoe for the occasion And at the end of the day- our feet are still very happy I love to share my knowledge and love for shoes to all that I know.” She is excited about her coming move to West Sedona “I like our move into an exclusive neighborhood center that offers convenience with ample parking and easy accessibility,” she said “We have everything at this center from grocery store she truly embodies what being a Sedonan is all about “I love the community and beautiful nature that surrounds us,” she said “I love outdoor activity so the perfect place to live The Hillside Store will also remain open until the end of the year www.astepupsedona.com The Sedona City Council approved a zoning change that will allow workers experiencing homelessness to sleep in their cars in a “safe” parking lot at the Sedona Cultural Park It’s part of an effort to combat the city’s ongoing housing crisis and will be funded by a grant from the Arizona Department of Housing The Safe Place to Park program will only be available to those employed full-time within city limits and exclude seasonal workers or those who voluntarily choose to live in their vehicle Campers will be required to work with local social services with an end goal to secure permanent housing All vehicles will be required to leave during the day The initiative has faced pushback from some Sedona residents The council voted 6-1 to approve the zone change one of Chef Mercer Mohr and his partner Mithat Evirgen’s latest whimsical creating a “Modern Diner Experience” for those who enjoy innovative dining Located at the new boutique Wilde Resort & Spa in West Sedona the new restaurant’s menu takes foodies on an epicurean adventure from mischievous to magnificent Playful “adult boozy shakes & smoothies” add a grownup version of the old-fashioned treat What can we say… Playful and whimsical are adjectives that best describe it As you journey through the Rascal menu be sure to check out the featured Coffee Shop section You’ll find a litany of your favorite tea and coffee choices Note that all espresso drinks are fortified with two shots That surely will open your morning peepers Don’t forget to add one of their delicious croissants & muffins especially the glorious morning carrot muffin or the tasty gluten-free pastry of the day Did we mention there’s all day breakfast until 4 p.m From Steak & Lobster to a footlong hot dog and Ahi Tuna Nachos you’ll certainly find a favorite to delight you How about the Double Bacon Cheesy Burger stuffed with two 4-ounce patties on a toasted brioche bun Or order it on the “Wild Side” and surprise yourself with Mercer’s added secret ingredients Once you’ve tasted Chef Mercer Mohr’s culinary delights you can see why he was voted Best Chef of the Year in San Francisco in 1998 The Mercer Team has ventured into creating their own American and French oak wood-toasted barrel-aged Bourbon called Shine– sure to please a sipping connoisseur Wine lovers will feel spoiled with eight white and eight red wines on tap there’s plenty of seasonal creative craft cocktails stirring up a little mischief Chef Mercer Mohr and Mithat’s sister restaurants The Mesa Grilland Creekside American Bistro have garnered several Best Happy Hour and Best Casual Restaurant If you’re looking for a venue to celebrate your special occasions at Rascal’s Rascal can handle weddings up to 150 guests Smaller private parties of up to 50 guests can rent the private dining room Business meetings up to 20 people can reserve the Board Room that is equipped with TV’s and Wi-Fi Your furry friend will wag with approval over their special Doggie Patio Pet Menu All doggies get complimentary cold filtered ice water Chef Mercer Mohr’s passion for cooking began at an early age state-of-the art appliances were readily available to him which would one day blossom into those of an acclaimed master chef “If you were in our house and if you were hungry you cooked,” Chef Mercer said When you wanted to eat my mother would point to the refrigerator and say ‘there it is “I was always the guy whose house you would come with your friends to after being out most of the night,” he added “I would cook up chicken wings and stuff like that for everybody.” As he ventured into the restaurant business Chef Mohr was encouraged further by the head chef at Pinehurst Golf Resort in North Carolina “I was studying business and working in a restaurant called The Gathering Place I did the first one and from that point on I was the ice cutting guy.” Fate took over and directed him to his future “The chef told me that I should go to culinary school,” he said They were not too excited but supported my decision anyway Chef Mohr has opened several restaurants across the U.S prestigious awards including the winner of the James Beard Award for Tsar Nicoulai Caviar and the James Beard Foundation: “Outstanding Contribution to The Foundation Award” presented by Julia Carolyn Child 2002 Chef Mercer and Mithat have been partners since 2016 They have known each other since 2005 and worked together at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale where Mercer was Executive Chef at the time and Mithat the restaurant manager spent most of his life working in the restaurant business Mithat attended Food and Beverage School back in Turkey in his late teens and early 20s He started by working in small resort bars and training in the industry by the seaside in Turkey  An opportunity to work for a cruise ship opened up It was exciting to Mithat as a young professional with wanderlust because his passion was to work and travel he learned English and applied to work on Royal Caribbean He was selected as one of the candidates to get a position and ended up working/traveling with them for five years When there was an opening to work in the U.S at the Camelback Inn Marriott Resort in Scottsdale He was working as Director of Restaurants and Bars at the Phoenix Sheraton Downtown a property that he helped open when the Sedona opportunity with Chef Mercer came his way He was excited to work with such a talented chef and stretch his sea legs in a non-corporate restaurant setting I was elated to raise a family with my wife in a beautiful “I feel incredibly blessed to work with the most talented and honorable chef in the industry while also enjoying this amazing place with my family.” Emily is an accomplished pharmaceutical plaintiff attorney  Emily has brought her enthusiasm and her own talents to the Mercer’s Kitchen Restaurant Group Check out Emily’s “melt-in -your-mouth” Flakey Warm Croissants Rascal also has Daily Specials that will tantalize your taste buds Chef Mercer’s imagination always shines through Coining the restaurant’s name was inspired by Sedona’s local Farmers Insurance agent Don Nelms who affectionally greets his customers with “Hey The restaurant is open seven days a week from 7 a.m Visit Rascalrestaurantsedona.com for more information An old dandy standing tall above a hub of new trails in west Sedona Schuerman Mountain Trail is the gold standard of the bunch With the opening last year of the Scorpion-Skywalker-Pyramid loops this moderate trek up an extinct volcanic mound offers birds-eye views of its new siblings and a chance to glimpse Sedona and Verde Valley landmarks from an easy-to-conquer mountain summit The first section the trail follows an array of solar panels on the edge of Sedona Red Rock High School Then it passes a junction for the Scorpion Trail before turning upward along a thin cypress-shaded path pecked from the mountain’s east slope look for the sandstone dome of Capitol Butte and the flat veer left at a signed junction for the vista spur and make the 0.3-mile hike up a boulder-cluttered ridge that culminates at a promontory hovering above the distant profiles of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte the isolated plateau of Airport Mesa hosts a continual stream of planes coming and going overhead Mingus and Woodchute mountains rise above 7,000 feet at the edge of the Verde Valley descend to the junction and jog left to continue 1.7 miles through high-desert grasslands and pockets of juniper to where the route intersects the Lime Kiln Trail that connects Dead Horse Ranch and Red Rock state parks there’s no real option to make a day-hike loop unless you’re happy to walk on roads or have parked a car at one of the parks That’s why many hikers approach this trail as an out-and-back trek Length: 2.6 miles one way (with summit spur) Getting there: From the State Route 179/89A traffic circle in Sedona head 4.2 miles west on SR 89A and turn left on Upper Red Rock Loop Road Continue 0.2 mile to the high-school parking lot on the right Details:www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/ohv/recarea/?recid=55384&actid=50.