Plan Your Visit to Arizona’s Beautiful Verde Valley—With Sedona as a Home Base!

Sedona, Arizona is an iconic destination for visitors, offering breathtaking scenery, a thriving arts-and-culture scene, and an abundance of outdoor activities. However, Sedona also serves as the perfect base for exploring Northern Arizona’s other highlights, including the greater Verde Valley region and the Grand Canyon.

Whether you’re planning a short overnight visit or a longer stay, the Sedona area offers something for virtually every interest. Here’s a sample itinerary to help guide you in making the most of your time in Sedona and the Verde Valley:

Day 1: Arrive and Unwind in Sedona

If you are flying into Phoenix, Sedona is a direct two-hour drive northwards through scenic desert landscapes. Upon arriving in our beautiful city, check into Hotel El Portal, an award-winning, pet-friendly luxury boutique inn nestled in the heart of Sedona’s vibrant arts district.

Spend the afternoon strolling through Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, just steps from El Portal. Fashioned after a traditional Mexican village, this charming enclave is home to an array of local art galleries, boutiques, and eateries. For dinner, savor one of the many options at Tlaquepaque, or venture a bit further afield for Sedona favorites such as Elote Café or Shorebird.

Day 2: Explore Sedona’s Scenic Wonders

Start your morning with some fresh air and stunning scenery at one of Sedona’s renowned hiking trails, such as Cathedral Rock or Soldier Pass. Consider taking advantage of the Sedona Shuttle, which provides a free, eco-friendly way to access popular trailheads; the service also includes the Sedona Shuttle Connect, an on-demand public transit option that operates throughout Sedona Thursdays through Sundays, and the Verde Shuttle, which runs between Sedona and Cottonwood hourly, seven days a week.

In the afternoon, treat yourself to a jeep tour, an exhilarating off-road adventure showcasing Sedona’s dramatic landscapes. After a long day of exploring, return to El Portal for a quiet evening under the stars in our lush courtyard or by the cozy fireplace in our great room.

Day 3: Experience the Grand Canyon

Rise early for a day trip to Grand Canyon National Park, approximately two hours from Sedona. Drive through Flagstaff and take in the changing scenery as you approach the awe-inspiring South Rim. Explore scenic viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station, or take a short hike along the Rim Trail for unparalleled vistas. If you’d prefer a guided experience, consider using one of our partners, such as Sedona Philosophy Tours or First Class Charter & Tours. These companies, which pick up and drop off in Sedona, offer a range of experiences to enhance your enjoyment of the majestic Grand Canyon.

Day 4: History & Wine in the Verde Valley

Sedona sits in the heart of Arizona’s Verde Valley, a 714-square-mile region that is rich with natural beauty, history, and a thriving wine scene. Start with a visit to Montezuma Castle National Monument, where you can marvel at ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people. Then, continue to Jerome, a former mining town turned arts haven, where you can explore quirky shops, galleries, and the fascinating Jerome State Historic Park.

In the afternoon, embark on the Verde Valley Wine Trail, stopping at vineyards like Javelina Leap Winery and Alcantara Vineyards. Savor wines produced in the federally designated Verde Valley AVA while soaking in the lush landscapes of this high-desert region.

Day 5: Outdoor Thrills & Relaxation

For your last full day in Sedona, embrace the great outdoors. Start with a morning kayak adventure on the Verde River, where you’ll glide through serene waters and spot local wildlife. Next, visit Dead Horse Ranch State Park for a leisurely hike or a peaceful picnic among cottonwood trees.

In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a visit to the Sedona Spa at Los Abrigados, located next door to El Portal. We are pleased to offer our guests free membership to the spa, where you’ll be able to use their fitness center, pools, and other facilities. After relaxing and rejuvenating, enjoy your last dinner in town at an iconic local restaurant like The Hudson or Mariposa, both of which offer excellent cuisine and sweeping vistas of the red rocks.

Extend Your Stay—There’s More to See!

With so much to explore in and around Sedona, consider extending your stay at El Portal. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride over the red rocks, a day immersing yourself in Sedona’s art scene, or more time discovering hidden gems, there’s always another adventure waiting. Call El Portal today at 800-313-0017 to start planning your Verde Valley retreat!