When planning your next family vacation, you should definitely keep an eye on what Arizona has to offer. Known for its majestic scenery (they’ve got the Grand Canyon after all), vibrant culture, and exciting cities and nightlife, this state is not to be missed.
Calling a trusted vacation rental management company will ensure that you’ll get to enjoy all this state has to offer at a top vacation rental home. Instead of booking a hotel or motel, there are several benefits to staying at a vacation rental, including more space, more flexibility, and often even more savings.
While Phoenix may be the state capital, vacationers are falling in love with Sedona—a bit of a hidden gem located in the mountains near Flagstaff. Here, we’re looking at ways that you can make the most out of your Sedona vacation rental. We offer up ideas on places to go, sights to see, cuisines to try—and, of course—reasons why you should consider staying at a vacation home rental for your family vacation.
SEDONA AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Nestled in the mountains between red rock canyons and forests of pine trees, Sedona is a dream destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. While this town is surrounded by natural beauty, there are a few parks nearby that help you access the nature of Sedona. Check out Slide Rock State Park or Red Rock State Park for great hiking and biking trails. The Devil’s Bridge Trail, just north of the city, winds visitors through amazing red rock formations and canyons that you’ll never forget. Just east of Sedona, the Coconino National Forest offers endless recreational opportunities and secluded hikes.
SEDONA’S VORTEXES
Sedona has gained a reputation for its counterculture and spiritual vibe. People visit from all over the world to experience the unique energy of this town and the natural beauty of the cliffs, rocks, and forests. Nothing exemplifies the unique identity of this town more than the Sedona vortexes, which many believe have spiritual and energy properties.
While the entirety of Sedona is believed to be an energy-emitting vortex, there are four focal points that many believe radiate with powerful and unique energy. The four main vortexes in Sedona can be found at the Cathedral Rock vortex (near Red Rock State Park), the Boynton Canyon Vortex, the Bell Rock Vortex, and the Airport Vortex just along route 89A. Many visitors spend time at these beautiful spots to meditate, perform yoga, gain perspective, or simply take a moment to reflect. Surrounded by majestic rock formations, canyons, and wildlife, there’s no place better to slow down and reflect.
A TASTE OF SEDONA
The American Southwest is renowned for its unique and delicious cuisine—Sedona is no exception. As would be expected, Sedona offers some of the best Mexican and Southwestern food in the entire state. If you’re hankering for a taste of the local culture, try Casa Sedona Restaurant, Café Jose Restaurant, or the Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits.
Sedona also has a wide range of cuisine options sure to satisfy any taste. Mooney’s Irish Pub offers great drinks and food (try the shepherd’s pie) in a cozy pub atmosphere. The Golden Goose American Grill has arguably the best steak in town and a luxurious list of seafood options for a special occasion. For a more laid-back environment, check out the Red Rocks Café that is known throughout the entire state for their omelets. When packing for your Sedona vacation, don’t forget to bring your appetite.
TLAQUEPAQUE ARTS AND SHOPPING VILLAGE
Fitting in everything that Sedona has to offer into just one vacation can be challenging. However, if you want to quickly embrace the culture, food, and craft arts of Sedona (all in one place), you need to check out the renowned Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. This plaza combines acclaimed art, shopping, and unique culture along the banks of the beautiful Oak Creek. If you want to bring home something truly authentic from the culture of this region, this is the place to be. With some of the top restaurant options as well, including El Rincon Mexican Restaurante and the Secret Garden Café, you certainly won’t leave hungry. Tlaquepaque, which translates to “the best of everything,” truly lives up to its name.
CHAPEL OF THE HOLY CROSS
Even for those who wouldn’t call themselves religious, the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona is not to be missed. Completed in 1956, this unique chapel was inspired by the recently constructed Empire State building and even has a connection to the son of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The chapel, noted as a place of great beauty and peace, allows visitors a chance to reflect while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Coconino National Forest.
WHY CHOOSE A VACATION HOME RENTAL?
When planning out your Sedona vacation, you should start with a place to stay. While Sedona is populated with nice hotels and resorts, more families are opting for staying at a vacation home rental. Why is this? Well, there’s lots of reasons to make the shift. Larger families and groups love the additional space afforded by a vacation home rental.
Additionally, there’s much more variety when it comes to finding the perfect lodging. Since most vacation rentals come with a fully operational kitchen, you can save money by not having to eat out for every meal.
CONCLUSION – HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR SEDONA VACATION RENTAL
While the Grand Canyon and cities like Phoenix and Tucson get most of the attention from out-of-state visitors—for good reason—you’ll want to keep Sedona on your radar for your next Arizona vacation. Nestled in the mountains, Sedona has the advantage of a milder climate with less extreme heat than cities like Scottsdale or Phoenix. With local cuisine, amazing parks and hiking, and the chance to experience the spiritual energy of the vortexes, there’s simply so much to see and do in Sedona.
To truly immerse yourself in the unique culture of this mountain town, consider opting for Sedona vacation rentals instead of a hotel. A vacation home rental can offer more flexibility, more space, and with a fully functional kitchen, you won’t have to eat out for every meal (even if you might want to).
