A Weekend Guide to Sedona, Arizona with the best things to eat, see and do during a short visit to Red Rock Country. Includes where to stay and practical tips for hiking and sightseeing.
On a previous trip to Arizona I stopped in Sedona for a few hours on my way to the Grand Canyon. The moment I saw the red rock formations I was captivated. Sedona is a place you must experience in person to appreciate its dramatic landscape. For our return visit this year we planned a two-night stay to explore more of the area. During that short stay we hiked scenic trails, enjoyed several memorable meals and relaxed at a creekside resort. This weekend guide highlights where we stayed, the restaurants we recommend, and easy-to-moderate hikes and viewpoints to include on a short trip to Sedona.
Weekend Guide to Sedona, Arizona
Where to Stay in Sedona, Arizona
(1) L’Auberge de Sedona
We first discovered L’Auberge de Sedona during a drive-through visit and returned for a weekend stay. The resort offers creekside dining, private cottages, and thoughtful amenities. We booked a creekside cottage and loved waking up to the sound of Oak Creek each morning. Depending on your room choice you can enjoy sweeping red rock views or peaceful creek vistas.
The property sits on the banks of Oak Creek, tucked below the red rocks. It’s conveniently close to shops and restaurants while still feeling secluded and serene. The private cottages feel luxurious yet cozy — a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
These cottages are reminiscent of intimate, upscale retreats — ideal for cozy evenings by a crackling fireplace in a spectacular setting.
Where to Eat in Sedona, Arizona
(2) The Hudson Restaurant
The Hudson is a newer restaurant that offers fresh, flavorful dishes and dramatic red rock views. We dined on the outdoor patio at sunset; even on a cool evening the patio heaters made it comfortable. If weather allows, choose a patio table — the sunset over the red rocks is a highlight you won’t want to miss.
(3) Etch Kitchen & Bar at L’Auberge de Sedona
Etch Kitchen & Bar, located on the L’Auberge property, serves excellent breakfast and dinner overlooking the creek. The service, atmosphere and food are consistently strong. It’s a great spot to fuel up before a hike and a lovely place to return to for a more formal creekside dinner.
(4) Tii Gavo at Enchantment Resort
Enchantment Resort is set deep among the red rocks and offers spectacular views. We stopped at Tii Gavo for lunch between exploring the formations. Whether you sit indoors, on the bar patio, or on the outdoor terrace, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas. The food is good, but the setting is the main attraction.
(5) Mariposa
Mariposa was a spontaneous addition to our itinerary and proved to be an excellent choice. Set in a dramatic location with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large patio, the restaurant provides sweeping views from nearly every seat. The food is fresh and flavorful — a great pick for lunch or dinner with a view.
What to Do in Sedona, Arizona
While pregnant during this trip I chose activities that were enjoyable without being too strenuous. Sedona offers trails for every level, and the options below are easy to moderate and ideal for a weekend visit. This list is a starting point — Sedona has far more to offer than a single weekend can cover.
(6) Airport Mesa & Airport Loop Trail
Airport Mesa is a must-see viewpoint. You can drive to the top and take in broad vistas steps from your car, or hike portions of the Airport Loop Trail for additional perspectives. It provides one of the most comprehensive views of Sedona’s landscape.
(7) Red Rock Loop Road
If you prefer scenic drives to hiking, take Red Rock Loop Road. This route showcases many red rock formations and links to parks such as Red Rock Crossing at Crescent Moon Ranch. Driving the loop is an easy way to see a lot of the area in a short time.
(8) Red Rock Crossing & Cathedral Rock
Red Rock Crossing at Crescent Moon Ranch is a classic spot to view Cathedral Rock. There is an entrance fee, but the access, river views and picnic opportunities make it well worth a visit. Bring a lunch and spend time exploring the trails and shoreline.
(9) Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is an architectural gem set into the red rocks. Walk from the lower lot to the chapel for elevated views, or drive to the upper lot if you prefer to minimize walking. Either approach offers striking perspectives of the surrounding formations.
(10) Bell Rock Trail
Bell Rock is one of the first notable formations you encounter when arriving in Sedona. The trail is accessible and relatively flat for much of the route, making it a family-friendly option that still delivers beautiful scenery.
This guide highlights a few of the top places to stay, dine and explore in Sedona. Even after a short visit I found myself eager to return — the landscape and atmosphere leave a lasting impression. Whether you prefer hikes, scenic drives, or dining with a view, Sedona offers a memorable weekend escape.
Don’t miss the related Mini Arizona Road Trip that includes a stop in Sedona and a drive through Red Rock Country.
I researched, planned and paid for these experiences on my own. Explore more travel guides and tips before planning your next trip.