Sedona isn’t well known to visitors from outside the United States. This is epic if you’re looking to check out the Grand Canyon, it can be a great option for staying nearby!
It is also easily reachable from Phoenix and Flagstaff, allowing you to explore everything else Arizona has to offer. Convenient location aside, Sedona is a unique city with beautiful desert scenery and interesting cultural attractions, making it a worthy destination in its own right. Plus that pretty little village of Oak Creek – so sweet.
As it is a desert city, Sedona is quite spread out and in an inconvenient layout for easily getting around. This means it’s important to have a good idea of what areas you want to stay in beforehand.
That’s why I’ve created this guide – I want to help you find where to stay in Sedona for YOU! I have listed the five best neighborhoods in and around Sedona, and conveniently categorised them based on what kind of travellers they are best for. Whether you’re a family of four or a solo backpacker, I’ve got you covered.
Let me take you through Red Rock State Park from the village of Oak Creek through to Bell Rock.
Let’s go!
Photo: @audyscala
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Tlaquepaque
Whilst most visitors to Sedona head to Uptown, Tlaquepaque (which is also part of the city centre) offers a calmer atmosphere – perfect to ease yourself into the area!
Chapel
Despite featuring one of the most recognisable landmarks in Sedona, Chapel is not an area frequently visited by tourists!
Uptown Sedona
Uptown Sedona is the beating heart of the city and where you will find most of the major attractions! Though Sedona isn’t a nightlife destination, there are still some excellent bars, clubs and restaurants in Uptown.
West Sedona
Whilst Uptown Sedona has historically been the main hub for tourists, West Sedona is experiencing a major revival that makes it a worthy destination in its own right!
Oak Creek
Though formally a part of the Sedona area, Oak Creek is considered a village in its own right! For families, Oak Creek gives you some additional peace and quiet whilst still giving you access to excellent hiking trails,
Right in the heart of the desert, Sedona has a somewhat isolated atmosphere even though it’s only a short drive from both Flagstaff and Phoenix. This makes for a unique experience where you can soak up Arizona culture, discover an area of natural beauty, and check the local arts scene! There is a little something for everyone in Sedona, and each neighborhood has its own charms.
Right in the city center, Uptown Sedona is where you’ll find most of the nightlife offerings – as well as some excellent restaurants! Many visitors stick to Uptown Sedona thanks to its high density of entertainment, dining, and drinking establishments.
Nevertheless, neighboring Tlaquepaque offers a calmer alternative with some great arts attractions – multiple theatres, galleries, and events hosted in the area. Both Uptown and Tlaquepaque are the best connected if you want to explore other neighborhoods, or if you want to make a trip over to Flagstaff.
West Sedona feels like a separate town entirely, with an easy-going atmosphere and distinct entertainment district. This region is great for couples in particular that want to check out hip dining venues and local boutiques. It is well connected to the city center, and many Sedona hotels are now calling West Sedona home thanks to an increase in tourism.
Chapel is located south of the city center neighborhoods and does not have the same level of attractions as the other areas. Nevertheless, it is a great option for those on a budget wanting somewhere cheap to stay and excellent food options that won’t break the bank!
A little further south is Oak Creek – which is a village in its own right but closely associated with Sedona. For families, Oak Creek has a calmer atmosphere and plenty of attractions that will appeal to people of all ages! Locals in this area are welcoming, and happy to share their unique desert culture.
Sedona’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighborhoods in Sedona. Each caters to different interests, with different things to do so be sure to pick the neighborhood that’s right for you.
1. Tlaquepaque – Where to Stay in Sedona for Your First Time
Most visitors to Sedona head to Uptown, Tlaquepaque (also part of the city center) offers a calmer atmosphere – perfect to ease into the area! In particular, Tlaquepaque is known for its cultural highlights – with art galleries, concert venues, and craft markets located throughout the area.
It is also a great place to enjoy some hiking – with two fantastic trails along the Oak Creek River starting in the area. Tlaquepaque is within walking distance of Uptown Sedona and is well-connected to Chapel and Oak Creek by public transport. For first-time visitors, Tlaquepaque is a laid-back and central destination with plenty of facilities.
Top Things to Do in Tlaquepaque
- Snoopy Rock is a popular natural park close to the area where you can admire the beautiful desert scenery that surrounds Sedona
- Take a day trip out to see the Grand Canyon
- Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village is the place to be if you are into checking out people’s creative works and grabbing some supplies for your own
- There are also plenty of fantastic galleries in the area – in particular, I recommend Kuivato Glass Art Gallery and Honshin Fine Art
- Embark on an unforgettable experience, including a beautiful, unique train ride to the Grand Canyon and a magnificent tour visiting Grand Canyon National Park for the rest of the day.
- Tlaquepaque is the starting point for two excellent trails – A.B. Young Trail and Little Horse Trail both follow Oak Creek
- Hillside Sedona is a great spot if you want to indulge in some retail therapy – and they also have a rooftop with excellent views
Best Hotel Tlaquepaque: Amara Resort & Spa
Amara Resort & Spa is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL hotel in Tlaquepaque and has some fantastic facilities! There’s free high-speed WiFi throughout the hotel, and (my favorite part) it’s pet-friendly – so feel free to bring your furry friend along with you. The craftsmanship that has gone into designing this hotel is 10/10.
There’s a gorgeous outdoor pool sitting under the stunning Red Rock mountains so enjoy a swim and snacks from the on site restaurant. Staying at the Amara Resort is a chic experience so make the most of their spa treatments and services and live your best life!
Best Luxury Hotel in Tlaquepaque: The Inn Above Oak Creek
Only a five-minute walk from the main arts and crafts center in Tlaquepaque is one of the best hotels in Oak Creek Canyon. This boutique hotel is the perfect choice for those looking for a bit of an upgrade during your stay in the village of Oak Creek!
The hotel overlooks Oak Creek, giving guests gorgeous views of the surrounding nature and while there isn’t an outdoor pool, the creek is lovely. Free Wi Fi is included, as well as parking facilities.
Best Airbnb in Tlaquepaee: Spacious & Bright Studio
This beautiful studio apartment can sleep up to four guests – perfect for larger parties and families! Beautifully furnished with a modern design, this apartment is bright and airy – and comes with a private garden area. The kitchen is well equipped, and the host has super host status – ensuring quality throughout your stay.
Plus, you’re just down the road from Oak Creek Village if you need any essentials. If you’re anything like me, there’ll be a few trips for forgotten things 😉
2. Chapel – Best Place to Stay in Sedona on a Budget
Despite featuring one of the most recognizable landmarks in Sedona, the Chapel is not an area frequently visited by tourists. For budget travelers, this means you get to enjoy better prices on food and accommodation – Booya! As opposed to the slightly inflated rates of tourism hubs in Central and West Sedona, this is the spot.
Aside from the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross, where the area gets its name, there are plenty of excellent hiking trails in the area. These are all free to access and give you the chance to see some of the most unique and mesmerizing natural sights in the American West. Trails are calm here, as they are mostly only used by locals – I love that vibe personally.
Top Things to Do in Chapel
- The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a large catholic church built into a red rock – it is known for its large cross, and anyone is free to visit
- The Mystic Trail is a gorgeous hiking route that starts at the Chapel and loops around some gorgeous nature spots
- Experience the red sandstone rocks of the Sonoran Desert on a scenic 2-hour Jeep tour from Sedona. Get close-up views of the flora and geology, as well as panoramic views of the cinematic scenery.
- Take a walk along to Buddha Beach – though not actually a beach, this spot at the side of Oak Creek is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic
- Surya Sedona does guided hiking trips for beginners who want to explore the region – as well as some great yoga excursions in the desert
- Head up the Boynton Canyon trail and witness the gorgeous red rock valley from the side of the rock face; this trail is one of the most beautiful in the area
Best Hotel Chapel: Poco Diablo Resort
This three-star resort is perfect for visitors wanting a typical holiday atmosphere without breaking the bank. There is a nine-hole golf course on-site – as well as tennis courts, fitness facilities, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. A complimentary breakfast is provided, and both vegan and gluten-free options are available.
Best Airbnb in Chapel: Serenity Chapel Home
This modern apartment is in a peaceful neighborhood – giving you a calm environment to enjoy a good night’s sleep! It’s within walking distance from the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross and provides guests with easy access to the main hiking trails in the area. Free parking and free wi fi are also available.
Best Luxury Hotel in Chapel: Sparkling Outdoor Paradise
If you’re after luxury, look no further. This incredible four-bedroom home is outrageously beautiful with some of the best views you can imagine. The interior is the perfect blend of modernity and comfort.
The outdoor fire pit, hot tub, outdoor pool, and views make this place a top pick for those traveling as a family or larger groups. This luxurious home can sleep up to 12 and beats the Sedona resorts any time if you ask me, a worthwhile stay when you visit Sedona.
3. Uptown Sedona – Best Area to Stay in Sedona For Nightlife
Uptown Sedona is the beating heart of the city and where you will find most of the major attractions! Though Sedona isn’t a nightlife destination, there are still some excellent bars, clubs, and restaurants in Uptown. So you can party with the locals into the small hours – the best kind of partying if you ask me!
Uptown Sedona, as the city centre, is well connected to all of the other areas mentioned in this guide. It’s a hub of life day and night – with plenty of vibrant creative attractions and innovative restaurants waiting to be discovered throughout the day. It is also home to many great tour companies providing excursions to other parts of Arizona and through the desert landscape – party on!
Top Things to Do in Uptown Sedona
- Sedona Arts Centre acts as a gallery, theatre, and museum dedicated to Sedona’s creative spirit and colorful past
- Take a walk down Main Street where you can catch shops, bars, and restaurants and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Uptown Sedona
- Marvel at the insane natural wonders of Antelope Canyon.
- Film lover? You can’t miss the Sedona Motion Picture Museum – dedicated to films produced in and around the area
- Take the train along the Verde Canyon railroad
Best Hotel Uptown Sedona: Sedona Uptown Suites
This two-star inn is fairly basic. Given its location in the heart of Sedona, it is perfect for backpackers looking for budget-friendly accommodation in the city!
There is a small private patio on-site where you can mingle with other guests and admire the gorgeous views. From this sweet Sedona hotel, you can see across the city and the surrounding Red Rock Mountains.
Best Luxury Hotel in Uptown Sedona: L’Auberge De Sedona
The L’Auberge de Sedona is a lavish hotel that truly is the epitome of luxury in Sedona. There is a large sun terrace on-site that comes with red rock mountain views, and the restaurant is enjoyed by guests and locals alike. L’Auberge de Sedona provides a free shuttle service to the city centre, as well as additional services to the airport and surrounding towns.
Best Airbnb in Uptown Sedona: Uptown Zen Studio
This gorgeous apartment truly stands out from other Airbnbs in the area thanks to the unbeatable views across the nearby mountains! It also has a private hot tub, and the indoor area is beautifully decorated in a relaxed style. The kitchen is quite small but well-equipped for a short stay.
4. West Sedona – Coolest Place to Stay in Sedona
Whilst Uptown Sedona has been the main tourist hub, West Sedona is experiencing a major revival that makes it a worthy destination in its own right! This hip neighborhood has an extensive main street where you can enjoy hipster bars, progressive cafés, and unique boutiques. This means it is also a perfect spot for couples so if you’re here for loving, get here.
Connected to Uptown by public transport, West Sedona is directly above the airport – ideal if you’re only visiting the city for a short time! Whether you opt to stay here or not, you neeeeeed to set aside some time to explore West Sedona while you are in the city.
Top Things to Do in West Sedona
- Head down to Sunset Park – a popular hangout spot with regular events, picnic facilities, and some small walking trails
- The Sedona Performing Arts Alliance is a large theatre that features local and international performers throughout the year
- Head down to the Sedona Community Farmers Market – not just to try the fresh produce, but also to mingle with West Sedona locals
- Climb to the top of the Thunder Mountain Trailhead where you can check out Chimney Rock – as well as marvel at views across the city
- Take a Sedona Verde Valley vineyard tour and try the delicious local wines
Best Hotel West Sedona: Sky Ranch Lodge
The large Sky Ranch Lodge is one for nature lovers! In a stunning garden setting with rooms looking out to the Red Rock Mountains, you’ll be in heaven on your Sedona Visit. You could stay in the best hotels and your stay wouldn’t scratch Sky Ranch Lodge.
With beautiful, friendly, helpful staff, Sky Ranch Lodge is a boutique hotel that will leave you feeling serene. There’s an outdoor pool, there’s free wi fi and while there isn’t an on site restaurant, there’s a bar!
Best Luxury Hotel in West Sedona: Enchantment Resort
This charming Sedona Resort is decorated to reflect the region’s history – taking you back to the Wild West in a modern, chic way. Enchantment Resort has spacious rooms and a beautiful big fire pit to sit around and enjoy the Red Rock Country air. There’s an outdoor pool – sorry, four outdoor heated pools – as well as a fitness center, spa services and free Wi Fi.
Make the most of your stay at Enchantment Resort and enjoy being in your own Grand Canyon – filled with trails for hiking or mountain biking. Once you’re done being outdoors, come inside and enjoy Mii Amo Spa where you can receive spa treatments. If you’re traveling as a couple, treat yourself to a couples massage at Mii Amo Spa, Mi highly recommends it!
Best Airbnb in West Sedona: Cool Loft Retreat
This Airbnb Plus property is spacious, bright and perfect for those wanting to splash out on a luxury stay! It is decorated with furniture and art from local creatives, and there is a private balcony available. Modern technology adds a lavish edge to the property, including wireless Bluetooth speakers.
5. Oak Creek – Best Neighborhood in Sedona for Families to Stay In
Though formally a part of the Sedona area, Oak Creek is considered a village in its own right! For families, Oak Creek gives you some additional peace whilst still giving you access to excellent hiking trails, quirky local attractions, and fantastic dining options. It is also only a short drive away from Sedona city centre.
Named after the river that runs through the village, this is definitely a spot for those interested in nature activities! Alongside the world-class hiking trails, Oak Creek is home to some fantastic desert scenery to enjoy regardless of hiking ability or experience.
One of my personal highlights is the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park – slightly off the beaten path, this spiritual park is a haven. People of all faiths are welcome and the Stupa is considered a living presence of Buddha and is the only one in Arizona. The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is set amongst easy-to-walk trails and plenty of places to sit and meditate.
Top Things to Do in Oak Creek
- Sedona Stargazing is an excellent museum dedicated to outer space – they also have a large telescope that can be used in the evenings
- Head to Sedona Dream Theatre to catch some interesting performances by local theatre troupes, choreographers, and live musicians
- Learn about the Sedona Vortex, both spiritually and scientifically
- Hike the incredible Oak Creek Canyon trail
- Harness the soothing energies of Sedona’s vortex locations on a guided hike. Make a stop to practice yoga and Qigong, enjoy a chocolate meditation walk, and unwind in natural surroundings.
- Enjoy a day on the golf courses and tennis courts at Canyon Mesa Country Club.
- Like other neighborhoods in Sedona, Oak Creek has plenty of excellent galleries to choose from – I recommend Hummingbird and Van Loenen
- Take the family out to Grasshopper Point – this area of natural beauty has a dedicated picnic area that’s perfect for a day out with the kids
Best Hotel in Oak Creek: Bell Rock Inn
An excellent budget option – and it’s travel proud for my queer honeys! There is a heated outdoor pool available throughout the summer, as well as a hot tub year-round and a fitness center. The private patio area has gorgeous views of the surrounding red rocks.
Best Luxury Hotel in Oak Creek: Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
Hilton Sedona Resort is stunning and the on site restaurant is sensational, this is one of Sedona’s resorts you won’t forget. There’s a fitness center so you can stay fit on vacay in Northern Arizona… Or of course, nature lovers can get it outdoors in Red Rock State Park – there’s hiking and mountain biking, the works!
Best Airbnb in Oak Creek: Sedona Retreat
This home sleeps up to six guests in three bedrooms – making it the ideal choice for larger families looking for accommodation close to Sedona. It has recently been renovated, ensuring guests enjoy the latest kitchen equipment and furnishings. Streaming services are included with the TV, and WiFi can be accessed throughout.
FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Sedona
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Sedona and where to stay.
Where is Best for a Romantic Getaway in Sedona?
I’d stay in West Sedona – it’s off the beaten path but still well connected to uptown if you want to do city things. If you’re a couple traveling to Arizona, the Red Rock Mountains are undoubtedly a romantic spot to post up. I’ve seen some magical sunsets but the Sedona sunsets are something else and with such beautiful boutique hotels, Sedona’s the perfect spot for a honeymoon.
Why aren’t there Cheap Hotels in Sedona?
It’s a bit of a Grand Canyon resort-type vibe – if you’re not keen on the accommodations above, look at some epic cabins in Sedona.
What to do in Sedona?
Nature lovers will thrive here, especially if you’re staying in the village of Oak Creek. You’ve got access to all the activities, it’s the perfect place to stay for hiking, no matter your ability. There’s also wonderful mountain biking in the area too!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Sedona
Everyone needs good travel insurance, even on a cushy holiday like a trip to Sedona! All jokes aside, get it, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Sedona
Sedona is a truly unique destination in the heart of Arizona where you can discover local art, gorgeous red rock formations, and challenging hikes! It also has some interesting dining and nightlife options, as well as a burgeoning wine scene – it’s a different style of living in Sedona Baby.
If you’re still on the fence, it’s mellow; there’s been a lot of info. I’m gonna hit you with a 50/50 for where to stay – first off, I’m going to go with West Sedona! This trendy neighborhood offers something special, it’s close to the airport and connected to uptown and Enchantment Resort is the joint to stay at.
Bell Rock Inn is in Oak Creek Canyon and a sweeeeet place to stay if you’re on a tighter budget. Hotels in Sedona are pricey AF so it’s probably a good time rather than a long time set up if you’re traveling on a shoestring. The Village of Oak Creek is quaint and very versatile, with easy hiking trails and that mellow creek.
That being said, each neighborhood has its charms and I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options. I’m sure you’ll love your time in Sedona – Red Rock Country is stunning!
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments, I love to chat!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
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