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 are two unforgettable ways to spend a day in this mystical desert town.
Day 1: For the Creatively Curious
Morning
Pump 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. Weekend acoustic sets by local musicians add to the vibe. Before you leave, browse the small-batch foods, ceramics, and handcrafted jewelry on offer.
Next, 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. For Western sculptures and jewelry that capture Sedona’s spirit, explore Mountain Trails Gallery. Then step inside Andrea Smith Gallery and admire whimsical paintings and symbolic jewelry by Sedona’s own “world peace artist.”
Pro tip: On the first Friday of each month, Tlaquepaque throws an evening art walk with meet-and-greets and, at Rowe Fine Art Gallery, bronze-casting or patina demonstrations.
Afternoon
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.
Next, 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 continues 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.
Wrap up your afternoon at Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art, whose 20,000-square-foot showroom feels more like a contemporary museum. Towering stone sculptures, blown glass, and globally inspired pieces fill the space—you could return a dozen times and still discover something new.
Evening
Cap the day with dinner 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.
Day 2: For the Sedona Soul Seeker
Morning
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.
Then surrender to a 90-minute chakra-balancing session at Sedona Healing Arts or SpiritQuest Retreats. As quartz crystal bowls resonate, a Reiki practitioner channels restorative energy through your body. Dress comfortably, stay hydrated, and let yourself drift.
Afternoon
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 further 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.
Next, shop for spiritual souvenirs. At Crystal Magic, explore rows of crystals, singing bowls, tarot decks, and a photo-worthy nook lined with massive quartz geodes. Nearby Mystical Bazaar stocks aura-photography sessions, intention candles, dreamcatchers, and other ritual tools—trust your intuition; many travelers say the right piece finds them.
Evening
Lace up for sunset yoga at Cathedral Rock Trailhead with guides from Aumbase Sedona or Surya Sedona Yoga. A short but steep ascent leads to a natural saddle between soaring spires—one of Sedona’s most powerful feminine-energy vortexes. Flow through sun salutations as the sky turns rose and purple (bring plenty of water and a camera for post-practice photos).
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.
