A Guided Adventure

Description:

Dreaming of a creek side cabin? Briar Patch Inn has the answer with 17 cottages tucked along the banks of Oak Creek in beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. Dressed in rustic comfort, these cottages accessorize with Native American art. A crackling fireplace warms many visitors. Most cottages have one bedroom and sleep two to four people. The Heron, Eagle and Creekside each have two bedrooms, and the Ponderosa has three. Borrow a book from the on-location library and curl up in your own patch of sunlight on nine acres of ground, or call your hosts to arrange a therapeutic massage.

Our Local Expert Says:

See parts of Sedona other tourists won’t be able to see without the help of these jeeps, which are capable as well as fashionable!

Description:

Rolling competently over extremely rugged terrain, these tours take visitors to beautiful and remote locations they wouldn't be able to see otherwise. Originally a means to show clients undeveloped real estate properties, Pink Jeep Tours have become a popular way for tourists to plan excursions that are both soul-enriching and educational. The most popular of the nationally renowned Pink Jeep Tours include the Broken Arrow, Ancient Ruin, and Diamondback Gulch tours. In fact, Pink Jeep Tours are the only tour company permitted by the Coconino National Forest to give guided tours at the Honanki ruins site. Located downtown on 89, Pink Jeep Tours also offers opportunities for those travelers who are interested in getting out of the jeep and discovering Sedona at a walker's pace. Most tours range from $65 to $75 per person with discounts for children and groups.

Description:

This open-air shopping center is modeled after a picturesque Mexican village and named after the artisan suburb outside Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. In Sedona, Tlaquepaque happens to be one of the top tourist attractions in town, drawing a steady stream of visitors to the sprawling, hacienda-like structure lined with cobblestone and decorated with whimsical statuary and fountains. You'll find dozens of high-end galleries, jewelry stores, boutiques, restaurants, and a small chapel. The stucco walls are covered over with crawling vines and flower pots are tucked into every corner and decorative terrace. Undoubtedly one of the more romantic shopping centers in town, Tlaquepaque is also a working artisan community where you may catch a glimpse of artists at work.

Description:

The first restaurant to open in Tlaquepaque shopping and gallery village combines Mexican, Southwestern and Native American influences. Voted Sedona's best Mexican restaurant for 16 years running it is a favorite to enjoy a house special Margarita Magnifica. Spanish-style furnishings, arched doorways and brightly colored tableware afford a festive feel. Burritos, enchiladas, tacos, tostadas and quesadillas make up the majority of the menu. Navajo Pizzas (similar to fry bread), Chiles Rellenos (stuffed chiles) and Chimichangas are also worth a try.

Description:

Pedal under the shadowy image of Sedona's hauntingly beautiful red rocks outlined only by the full moon. Mountain Bike Heaven organizes stimulating (if different) dark outings every month, including the chilly month of February. Choose your clothing well for an enjoyable experience. If you are not up to the no-light version, alternative events include free local club rides on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. If you are uncomfortable hitting the trails on your own, you may arrange a custom tour through the bike shop.

Description:

Dreaming of a creek side cabin? Briar Patch Inn has the answer with 17 cottages tucked along the banks of Oak Creek in beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. Dressed in rustic comfort, these cottages accessorize with Native American art. A crackling fireplace warms many visitors. Most cottages have one bedroom and sleep two to four people. The Heron, Eagle and Creekside each have two bedrooms, and the Ponderosa has three. Borrow a book from the on-location library and curl up in your own patch of sunlight on nine acres of ground, or call your hosts to arrange a therapeutic massage.

Description:

Across from the Red Planet Diner, this mini-deli specializes in authentic New York style bagels. Breakfast and deli sandwiches are served from the counter. Bagels are also available by the dozen. Decor and atmosphere are sparse, with a few old black and white New York photos hanging around the microscopic storefront. This is a place where locals know enough to stake out tables early, so unless you know the routine, you had better plan on take-out. Credit cards are not accepted here.

Description:

Free your adventurous spirit with a group tour in a saddle or aboard an authentic jeep into the heart of Sedona's scenic backroads. Whether you choose a leisurely trip into Boynton Canyon or a more robust encounter on primitive roads leading to the private ranch facility, you will thrill to the memorable transport and surroundings. Arrange a group tour, wedding, or corporate incentive tour with the staff here. Tours run one and one-half to four hours in length and range in price. The minimum age for children to participate is seven years. Call for reservations and further information.

Description:

Hundreds of animals from around the world are the star attraction at this outdoor wildlife park, located 30 minutes south of Sedona. Safaris, tours, observations, live demonstrations, and wildlife shows are just some of the daily activities you'll find at Out of Africa, where visitors get up close and personal with lions, tigers, a jaguar, leopards, wolves, hyenas, rhinoceros, camel, ostrich, black bear, zebra, tortoise, wildebeest, and exotic birds. Take the African Bush Safari Tour, watch animals leap for their lunch during the Predator Feed tour, or see the world's largest Anacondas, Pythons, and Boas during the Giant Snake Show. This is one of Arizona's finest zoos and wildlife parks, not to be missed when you're in this part of the state.

Our Local Expert Says:

The best brews in Arizona! A good place for a nice sit-down dinner or a bar-stool. Patio always open.

Description:

Oak Creek Brewing Company is a must stop for thirsty travelers interested in drinking local ales. The brewery offers a wide selection of ales, though the Oak Creek Nut Brown and Pale Ale are regional favorites. Don't miss happy hour during the week from 4-7PM and be sure to check out the live music every Friday and Saturday, beginning at 8PM. Located on Yavapai Drive (just west of HWY 179 on 89A), simply look for the large white malt silo branded, "Oak Creek Brewery."

Description:

What a breath of fresh air!! Set against a beautiful backdrop of red cliffs, The Canyon Wren offers a unique experience of spectacular Oak Creek Canyon/Sedona. Four wonderful cabins designed for intimacy are dedicated to the enjoyment of couples or that individual looking to re-energize with a tranquil retreat or getaway. Each cabin has its own charming spell. The accomodations are very clean and comfortable. No televisions or phones will disturb you.

As seen on

Our Local Expert Says:

Local favorite where people-watching, quick service, big portions, and eclectic art meet.

Description:

If you want to eat where the locals eat, head straight to The Coffee Pot, a down-home breakfast and lunch diner that is famous for its breakfasts and notably generous large servings. Named for the imposing coffee pot-shaped rock formation located behind the restaurant, the "home of the famous 101 omelettes" also happens to serve up a mean lunch platter. Choose from a large selection of sandwiches, salads, and Mexican specialties. The Coffee Pot  has been a local Sedona landmark for decades, and recently expanded a bit with an outdoor patio and kids menu. There is also a gift shop stocked with knick-knacks.

Our Local Expert Says:

Take this early morning balloon ride for the most spectacular sites in Sedona. This is well-worth the money, especially for those short on time.

Description:

Experience the magnificent scenery of Sedona from the perspective of a red-tailed hawk, soaring quietly above the towering red rock and snaking canyons. Flights begin at sunrise and last from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on wind and the discretion of the pilot. $195 per person includes transportation to and from the launch site, a complementary picnic upon landing, and a DVD immortalizing the trip. Because it is often chilly in the morning, even during the summer, guests should wear layered clothing. And don't forget to bring a camera! Reservations should be booked in advance.

Our Local Expert Says:

An uptown favorite for its location and consistently good food.

Description:

Healthy, fresh Mexican food gives your taste buds something to sing about at this scenic uptown restaurant in Sedona. The large, comfortable patio provides some of the best canyon vistas you'll find at at any restaurant in town, and the carefully prepared food adds to a great dining experience. Smoky salsa and an extensive tequila list make this a good place for a long lunch or leisurely dinner. Oaxaca owner Carla Butler is a registered dietitian who does not use lard or cholesterol-rich oils in the dishes, making this a health-conscious foodie's dream come true, and the gluten-free menu items provide choices for those with food sensitivities and allergies.

Description:

What a breath of fresh air!! Set against a beautiful backdrop of red cliffs, The Canyon Wren offers a unique experience of spectacular Oak Creek Canyon/Sedona. Four wonderful cabins designed for intimacy are dedicated to the enjoyment of couples or that individual looking to re-energize with a tranquil retreat or getaway. Each cabin has its own charming spell. The accomodations are very clean and comfortable. No televisions or phones will disturb you.

As seen on

Description:

This 286-acre state park preserves many of the famous monoliths and formations that have made Sedona's "Red Rock Country" famous around the world. The park has plenty of meandering trails through the high desert landscape of manzanita bushes, pinyons, and juniper trees. If you're looking for a secluded entry point to Oak Creek, come early in the morning and enjoy the solitude. The park does not permit camping, but there several tables and ramadas for day picnics. Other amenities include a visitor's center and classroom and theater that host regular presentations from park rangers and guest speakers.

Description:

The King's Ransom Quality Inn's' restaurant specializes in antibiotic-and-hormone-free beef for a meal of some of the purest protein available. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in a relaxing, casual atmosphere. Breakfast specialties include Eggs Benedict, Belgian Waffles and Blueberry Pancakes. At lunch, a full menu of soups, salads, sandwiches and Mexican dishes are reasonably priced. Dinners feature daily chef specials like grilled salmon in dill cream sauce and baked ham with a brandy raisin sauce. Full bar service is available.

Description:

Forty guys named Joey—writers, sports figures and entertainers—are honored here. Mediterranean-inspired furnishings give the room a formal feel, but the Joey artwork around the room adds a touch of whimsey. Try the Cannelloni Freddi-crisp pasta shells filled with roasted eggplant pesto, sundried tomato fennel purée, Gorgonzola and Mascarpone cheeses—they are a Scottsdale Culinary Festival Best Specialty Appetizer winner. House specialty entrées include Joey Parmigiana, Piccata and Marsala, made with chicken or veal and Joey Classico Lasagne. The wine list includes Los Abrigados' private-labels.

Description:

American and Mediterranean-inspired dishes are served in the pastel-toned dining room, which manages to be country without getting kitschy. The stone exterior of the restaurant gives it an Italian country-cottage-like quality. The restaurant also offers grilled Certified Angus steaks, fish and seafood and poultry dishes at dinner. At lunch, soups, sandwiches and salads are added. Breakfasts are hearty and have that just like grandma used to make quality.