Where is the best area to stay in Sedona?
By Nakita Harris. September 12, 2024
As you enter Sedona, you are mesmerized by the 360-degree panoramic view of rich red rocks that appear to be painted by God himself. Sedona is an outdoor lover’s paradise and a haven for those seeking wellness, spirituality, and rejuvenation. Known for its mystical energy vortexes and luxury spas, Sedona is abundant with hiking trails, spa resorts, art galleries, outdoor adventure activities, wine tasting, farm-to-table dining, and unforgettable experiences in nature. With a small resident population of just under 10,000 but attracting around 3 million tourists every year, it’s no secret that crowds flock to this town to experience the magic of Sedona.
The best area to stay in Sedona is Uptown as this is the town center, overflowing with specialty shops, art galleries, adventure tours, and restaurants. You can easily walk around Uptown, as you browse the boutiques, stop for homemade ice cream and chocolate fudge, sample wines from Arizona vineyards, and marvel at beautiful pieces of art. Offering rich insights into the Native American culture, you can find boutiques in Uptown showcasing indigenous jewelry creations made from turquoise and copper native to Arizona. The visitor information center is also located in Uptown, making it a convenient starting point to gather maps, brochures, and tour details.On the map, which shows the most convenient area to stay in Sedona, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.
If you are interested in where to stay in Sedona, you may also be interested in where to stay in Grand Canyon or where to stay in Phoenix.
Uptown, the best area to stay in Sedona
Shopping / Tourist Center / Luxury Spa Resorts
When you enter Uptown you are surrounded by glorious views of red rocks at every angle, and the stores and boutiques transport you to a setting reminiscent of The Wild, Wild West. Uptown is home to two stunning luxury spa resorts: L’Auberge Sedona and Amara Resort & Spa. Both resorts offer access to swim in Oak Creek, with L’Auberge featuring a calendar of wellness activities and an exceptional telescope experience for stargazing. The spa at Amara is unmatched with treatments like the Prickly Pear Scrub and the Winds of Change massage, enhanced with healing crystals.
For unique dining experiences, you’ll find one of the most exclusive Mexican restaurants: Elote Cafe - where reservations are essential and highly sought after. Uptown also boasts extravagant crystal stores, energy healers, and organic wellness cafes. When your soul craves adventure, head to Main Street to book a Pink Jeep tour or a yoga vortex hiking tour.
Other places to stay in Sedona
West Sedona
Nature Lovers / Healing & Wellness / Airport Mesa Vortex
West Sedona is the ideal area for hiking, relaxing accommodations, and exceptional dining. This area is a haven of spiritual energy and breathtaking scenery, featuring one of the most unique hotels in the world: Ambiente Hotel. As an adults-only property and a member of the Leading Hotels of the World collection, Ambiente offers beautifully crafted atriums instead of traditional rooms. Each atrium provides a secluded retreat with magnificent views and private rooftops.
West Sedona is also home to Mariposa, one of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in the USA. With its Latin-American inspired cuisine and 360-degree views, dining at Mariposa feels like having dinner in The Grand Canyon. For nature enthusiasts, the Airport Mesa Vortex hiking trail offers an indescribable lookout to start your day. Convenience is also a highlight, with CVS, Walgreens, Natural Grocers, and Whole Foods all located along the main road (W-89A). The town shuttle, which travels between Uptown and Cottonwood, makes several stops in West Sedona.
Village of Oak Creek
Golfing / Bell Rock Vortex / Budget-Friendly Accommodation / Family-Friendly
The Village of Oak Creek (VOC) is a picturesque, more laid-back area neighboring Sedona, offering a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. VOC is the ideal destination for a memorable golfing experience and hiking some of Sedona’s most renowned trails. For a weekend golfing getaway, book a tee time at Oak Creek Country Club or Sedona Golf Resort, where you can enjoy exceptional courses set against stunning red rock backdrops.
Budget-conscious travelers will find Bell Rock Inn and The Views Inn Sedona to be excellent choices, providing comfortable accommodations in a prime location. Staying in VOC also grants you easy access to the Bell Rock Vortex hiking trail and Courthouse Butte Loop Trail, both offering serene walking paths to immerse yourself in nature. Just a short distance from VOC, Poco Diablo Resort stands out with its superb golf course and elegant restaurant, featuring breathtaking views.
Cottonwood
Verde Valley Wine Tasting / Antiques / Horseback Riding
Set amidst the Verde Valley approximately a 25-minute drive from Sedona, Cottonwood is a charming destination known for wine tasting, antique shopping, and horseback riding. As a key stop on the Verde Valley Wine Trail, Cottonwood features numerous wineries offering wines produced from Arizona’s own vineyards. Page Spring Cellars is a popular vineyard known for its wine tasting and estate winery tours.
For a unique twist on horseback riding, visit Alcantra Vineyards, where you can ride horses through their enchanting vineyards! Historically a mining and railroad town in the 19th century, Cottonwood is celebrated for its antique shopping, with stores like Cat’s Meow Antiques and J&J Antiques brimming with unique finds and treasured relics. Hotels in Cottonwood exude vintage charm, with The Tavern Hotel being an excellent choice. With the close proximity to Sedona, a perfect day starts with a glorious hike in Sedona followed by an indulgent experience of locally-grown wine in the Verde Valley.
Our recommended hotels in Sedona
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in SedonaNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
