Sedona, Arizona is more than just a laid back Southwestern town filled with art galleries and souvenir shops. If you think that it may be boring to bring kids, then reconsider what you’ve been told about Sedona. It’s a wonderful place for a family vacation with a diversity of activities both in the town and just outside of it. With over a dozen state and national parks, miles and miles of hiking paths, and a range of other indoor and outdoor activities – there is plenty here for families to fill their days with from great introductory activities to adventurous outings to easy, lazy days in town.
When you first arrive in Sedona, getting the lay of the land doesn’t have to mean an afternoon pouring over maps and brochures. Instead, try something a little more hands on like a jeep tour or a trolley ride to help you get acquainted with the area. There are many jeep tour companies in the area which are a great way to get out and do some sightseeing with the family on your first day in Sedona. The tours will take you through the open spaces and teach you about the different rock formations, plant life, and the history of the area while getting a sense of the area around the town. If something a little more tame is more your speed, then take a trolley ride from Oak Creek to West Sedona to become acquainted with the town! Trolley rides are also wonderful for exploring Sedona on your own schedule – just hop on and off as you wish! After getting familiar with the area, it’s time to move on to something more adventurous!
With plenty of parks and places to explore, finding something exciting to do with your family is effortless. Three great options in Sedona are Cathedral Rock, Slide Rock State Park, and the Grand Canyon. Cathedral Rock is one of the most iconic sights in the Southwest with its towering height and striking red colors. Take your family on an adventure hiking through the beautiful natural beauty of the American Southwest. The hike takes you from the floor of the desert to the different “saddle” points or gaps between the rocks where it’s shaded and cool, and from where you can see the stunning views. If you want to do something a little more water focused, then spend the day at Slide Rock State Park – one of the nation’s top ten state parks! At Slide Rock, families can picnic, fish, and spend the day cooling off in the water pools and the natural water slides. In the summer, this park can get busier, so plan accordingly. Finally, what trip to Arizona would be complete without a visit to one of the seven natural wonders of the world? The Grand Canyon is less than two hours from Sedona, which is a very doable day trip! If the family car isn’t on hand, there are tours that leave for the National Park every day that you can schedule.
After all the exploring, hiking, and adventures, staying in town for a low energy day will still give you plenty to do and see. Sedona has premiere shopping in the central district with art, jewelry, and other boutique stores that will give anyone more to look at than they could possibly manage in a single day. Staying cool while wandering is easy with Sedona’s array of restaurants and ice cream shops provide sustaining or quick ways to stay full and not too hot in the Sedona afternoons. Take some time to relax and explore the stone lined walkways of Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, and the cool side streets in town between your outdoor adventures.
If your family is filled with four-legged creatures instead of tiny humans, then Sedona is still the place for you! Sedona is one of the most pet-friendly towns in the region with its miles of hiking trails for you to take your dog with you on walks, the state and national parks, and fun, new places in town like pet friendly bakeries. You can still fill up your vacation without having to leave your dog at home. However, if there is a day where you want to do something and can’t bring your pet, then use one of the many pet boarding, sitting, or even grooming services available in Sedona to keep you and your four-legged family member safe and happy.
For more information, http://visitsedona.com/