Explore: Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona - 34.8697° N, 111.7610° W

When people think about Arizona, three things typically come to mind: heat, cacti, and swimming pools. However, just two and half hours north of Phoenix, you'll find Flagstaff, a small mountain town home to roughly 20,000 college students. I lived in Flagstaff for four years while attending Northern Arizona University, and some might be surprised to hear that those years were filled with snow, wind, and negative-degree weather. Contrary to popular belief, Flagstaff actually experiences four seasons!

That being said, if you're looking for a blend of Flagstaff and Phoenix, Sedona might just be the place for you. Home to just over 10,000 people, this quaint town is tucked between beautiful red rocks and the entire area is considered to be a vortex. According to Visit Sedona's website, "Sedona vortexes are thought to be swirling centers of energy that are conducive to healing, meditation and self-exploration." It should come to no surprise that the whole area feels alive - energy runs through the ground and your entire being feels at peace.

Aside from the energy of the area, Sedona is home to quirky crystal shops, delicious dessert options, great souvenir shopping, and a variety of food options (complete with gorgeous views!). If you're only able to make it for a day, here are my top recommendations for shopping, treats, and hiking.

Sedona Crystal Vortex

Found just off the main drag, Sedona Crystal Vortex is your one-stop-shop for all things crystals, gems, and stones. Whether you're looking for necklaces, rings, table decorations, or loose stones, this place has it all. Rose Quartz ("Stone of Gentle Love"), Selenite ("Rejuvenator"), Howlite ("stills the mind"), and Opalite ("Stone of Happy Dreams") are just a few that we grabbed on our most recent trip. All stones come with a card describing what each is meant to support, i.e. better sleep, relaxation, clear mind, etc.

Sedona Fudge Company

I'm going to make a bold statement and say that the Sedona Fudge Company has the BEST penuche fudge around. As soon as you walk in the door, you're hit with a rich, sweet smell that knows you off your feet. There's a viewing area where you can see all of the sweet treats being made in-store. This place has everything - chocolate-covered fruit/oreos/graham crackers, truffles, and (my personal favorite) fudge. After dinner, take a walk down to this mom-and-pop shop and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Bell Rock

Before heading out of town, be sure to stop at Bell Rock for sunset. This short hike leads you up on the red rocks to get a perfect view of the Sedona Valley. An added bonus? You can bring your dog on the hike with you! Don't forget to grab a state or annual national park pass, you'll need it in order to park at the trail head.

Extra Tip: If you're going to travel from Flagstaff to Sedona, take State Route 89A. Winding through the mountains, this drive is beautiful! Autumn is the best time to visit, with weather in the 60s and 70s and all of the leaves are oranges and yellows. There is even a quick pit stop on the side of the route where you can buy fresh apple cider from the area.

I've lived in Arizona for the majority of my life, and Sedona is one of my all-time favorite places to visit. Aside from escaping the valley heat, the town is beautiful, the people are friendly, and it's a perfect place to reset your soul and mind. So, enjoy your trip, have some fudge, and be ready to take lots of photos!