Music Matters
Flagstaff will host three different music festivals in June. The June Jam Music Festival kicks things off. From June 12 to 15, attendees can enjoy live music, yoga, camping, workshops and arts at Playa Ponderosa. A…
Flagstaff will host three different music festivals in June. The June Jam Music Festival kicks things off. From June 12 to 15, attendees can enjoy live music, yoga, camping, workshops and arts at Playa Ponderosa. A…
The property you see on these pages looks gorgeous now. But about a decade ago, it was in need of a remodel. “This was home was very boxy. It was dated. It was something you wouldn’t…
New this year, the City of Sedona will be hosting Family Fun Fridays. Every Friday in June, families and their children can look forward to fun, free events. On June 5, families can chill out at…
Lovejoy is a celebrated local painter, and she’ll be teaching painting classes every Thursday throughout the summer at Uptown Sedona’s Amara Resort and Spa. If the name Lovejoy sounds familiar to you, it’s likely because she’s…
Next time you visit the Grand Canyon, you might just run into the astronomer in residence, Logan Pearce. The Grand Canyon Conservancy created the program as a way to educate the public about the importance of…
Judi’s Restaurant & Lounge is a special place. This West Sedona spot has been in business for over three decades and has rightfully earned a strong following. Although the original owner and the restaurant’s namesake, Judi…
Fay Canyon has long been one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock Country and for good reasons: There’s plenty of parking at the trailhead, the route is relatively flat until the end, and the…
Secret Slickrock Trail Secret Slickrock offers beautiful views of Cathedral Rock and the surrounding valley, but it remains less crowded than many nearby trails. Merry-Go-Round Rock Located along Schnebly Hill Road, Merry-Go-Round Rock provides one of…
May is that special month of the year when we begin the transition out of spring into the warmth and joy of summer. In nature, the breeding season is past, and a new generation of creatures…
Pisa Lisa has long been one of our go-to restaurants when we’re craving a hot slice of pizza. The West Sedona location beckons with a lively patio that overlooks the stunning Capitol Butte red rock formation…
Cathedral Rock at Red Rock Crossing One of the most iconic photography locations in Sedona is Red Rock Crossing, where Cathedral Rock reflects in Oak Creek. Airport Mesa Airport Mesa offers sweeping panoramic views of Sedona’s…
SEDONA RED DIRT CONCERT SERIES For an entire decade, the City of Sedona has hosted free outdoor concerts as part of its Red Dirt Concert Series. Every Friday in May and September, Sedona residents and visitors…
Uptown Sedona’s Sedona Center has launched a new venue space. The 2,200-square-foot space Venue at Sedona Center serves up stunning views of Sedona’s red rocks and can accommodate up to 50 seated guests and 100 standing. Locals…
From May 13 through June 23, ‘Tis Art Center & Gallery in Prescott will present “Journeys in Spirit 2026: Traditional and Contemporary Native Art,” in collaboration with the Museum of Indigenous People. Look forward to a…
LISA DAHL EXECUTIVE CHEF & OWNER OF DAHL RESTAURANT GROUP Lisa Dahl owns a total of six Sedona restaurants and is one of the area’s most celebrated chefs. Like many who cook professionally, her passion for…
Looking to learn more about how to tackle rugged adventures? Then consider attending Overland Expo West. Held from May 15 to 17 in Flagstaff at Fort Tuthill County Park, Overland Expo West will bring together over…
Explore Sedona’s Famous Hiking Trails Sedona’s trail network offers hundreds of miles of hiking opportunities through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Arizona. Popular trails include Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Bell Rock, and Doe Mountain,…
Oreo is a handsome 1.5 year old kitty who is waiting for a family at the Humane Society of Sedona. He is slowly but surely finding his confidence and learning how to trust the people around…
Consider closing out the spring at Tlaquepaque’s Arts & Shopping Village’s Cinco de Mayo celebration. Held on May 2 from 1 to 4 p.m., Cinco de Mayo will bring Mexican folk dancers, live music and plenty…
Stepping into Vespa Healthy Italian Café isn’t just about dinner, it’s like stepping through the doors of an Italian courtyard, already alive with conversation, shared plates, and the rhythm of people gathered together. As Vespa has…
Photography is widely accepted as one of the most versatile artforms there is. It is able to capture an instant in time of a historical or momentous event and also the ability to capture the patterns…
To celebrate Mother’s Day, Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Trattoria will offer a special menu to celebrate moms on May 9 and 10, in addition to its regular menu. Really want to go all out? Consider booking a…
Outdoor Dining & Restaurants with a View in Sedona Few places rival Sedona when it comes to dining with a view. From dramatic red rock panoramas to serene creekside settings, outdoor dining here is more than…
Sometimes when we’re searching for a hike to tackle, we just want a relatively easy hike that serves up great red rock views without a ton of effort. The Aerie Trail fits that bill perfectly. The…
Mike and Cheri Hayes were vacationing in Sedona back in 2020 and fell in love with the area. The married couple was looking for homes and ultimately decided to purchase a lot to build a dream…
Searching for live music? Then head over to the Posse Grounds Pavilion every Friday to hear free, live music as part of the City of Sedona’s Red Dirt Concert Series. New this year? The City will…
Red Rock Scenic Byway Red Rock Scenic Byway is widely considered one of the most beautiful drives in Arizona. The highway passes through the heart of Sedona’s red rock country, offering spectacular views of Bell Rock,…
The Open Studios Spring Tour gives art fans a chance to step inside the studios of 55 working artists. Visitors can check out 35 private studios throughout the Verde Valley from April 24 to 26. They…
We don’t know about you, but spending nearly all day at Cottonwood’s Dead Horse State Ranch Park learning about and seeing birds in a lush, natural setting is our idea of a perfect spring day. Fortunately,…
Best Restaurants in Sedona Sedona’s dining scene is as unforgettable as its red rock landscapes—blending world-class culinary talent, breathtaking views, and a distinctly local sense of place. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a casual lunch…
West Sedona’s Enchantment Resort has unveiled the amenity-packed Canyon Vista Rental Home. This two-bedroom, three-bathroom 2,367-square-foot home features a full kitchen, a dining room, three fireplaces and a massive living area. The home also features a…
Established in 1997, the Northern Arizona Book Festival is returning to Flagstaff from April 10 to 13. This book festival celebrates the rich history and heritage of the Colorado Plateau and American Southwest. Attendees can anticipate…
Sedona’s stunning scenery, coupled with its Zen vibe, makes it an ideal place for a yoga festival, and it makes total sense that the Sedona Yoga Festival has found a home in Red Rock Country. Held…
Celebrated Sedona artist Curt Walters has released a book called “Resilience: The Life History and Grand Canyon Art of Curt Walters,” which is all about his life and work. This issue’s cover? Curt created that painting,…
Barney is a handsome one-year-old pup who was found as a stray and never claimed. He was very shy when he first came to the Humane Society of Sedona, but he really has come into his…
Rowe Gallery Located in Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, Rowe Gallery has been in business since 2010. The gallery’s most striking feature? A live tree that cuts right through it. One new exciting development is that…
Honor the springtime with the City of Sedona’s Celebration of Spring on April 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Posse Grounds Park. The event includes an egg hunt, a big bunny, games and prizes….
Airport Mesa Airport Mesa is widely considered one of the best sunset viewpoints in Sedona. The elevated location provides sweeping views of the surrounding red rock formations, making it a favorite gathering spot for photographers and…
Shift Kitchen & Bar is one of the many outstanding destination restaurants that have opened in Flagstaff over the past decade. Located in downtown Flagstaff in a light filled location, the contemporary setting features wood floors,…
Cathedral Rock Trail Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most iconic landmarks and an extraordinary place to watch the sunrise. The trail climbs steeply toward a saddle between towering rock formations, where hikers are rewarded with…
Devil’s Bridge is one of Sedona’s most iconic trails. This is largely due to the massive sandstone arch – the largest in the Sedona area – that gives this trail its name. Many hikers flock here…
Bell Rock Pathway Bell Rock Pathway is one of the most accessible hikes in Sedona and offers sweeping views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. The trail is wide and relatively flat, making it ideal for…
Easy Sedona Hikes Bell Rock Pathway Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks, and the Bell Rock Pathway provides an accessible introduction to the area’s trail system. The trail is relatively flat and offers…
FLAGSTAFF Route 66 once passed through Flagstaff. The city’s Mother Road Brewing Company – the route’s nickname – celebrates that rich heritage. The Flagstaff Visitor Center in downtown Flagstaff will be handing out a Route 66…
Curt Walters is a storied Sedona artist and one of the most notable Grand Canyon painters in the entire world. But throughout his long career, there was one thing he hadn’t done until recently: publish a…
Spring (March–May) Spring is widely considered one of Sedona’s most beautiful seasons. What to Expect Mild temperatures Wildflower blooms Ideal hiking weather Busy visitor season Daytime temperatures often range from the mid-60s to mid-80s. This is…
There are many ways to experience a winery, and Camp Verde’s Alcanta Vineyards and Winery offers a Verde River tour so you can check out the winery on the water from a kayak. The tour kicks…
Day 1: Arrival, Scenic Exploration & Sunset Morning or Midday Arrival Most visitors arrive in Sedona by car from either: Phoenix (about two hours away) Flagstaff (about 45 minutes away) Check into your hotel and take some time…
Although it has never played a big role in selecting where we chose to live, we have been fortunate enough to have chosen to live in a place with a lot of wildlife in the neighborhood…
Quick Picks: Best Places to Stay in Sedona Best for first-time visitors: Uptown Sedona Best for luxury and scenery: Boynton Canyon Best for spa getaways: West Sedona resort corridor Best for romance: Creekside properties Best for quieter stays: Village of Oak…
The Chamber Music of Sedona will host the esteemed Brentano Quartet on March 22 at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. The quartet – violinists Mark Steinberg and Serena Canin, violist Misha Amory and cellist…
Why Sedona Is a Premier Spa Destination Few places combine natural beauty and wellness quite like Sedona. Visitors are drawn by: The region’s famous red rock energy A long-standing holistic wellness tradition High-end resort infrastructure Year-round…
The outdoor-inspired hospitality brand Outbound is slated to open a new Sedona hotel sometime this year. The 138-room Outbound Sedona Hotel (formerly the Poco Diablo Resort) will feature modern Pueblo-inspired architecture. Room types include kings, bunk…
Betty and Grayman are a very sweet bonded pair who are ready to find a new home. They were surrendered to the Humane Society of Sedona back in November and are still having a hard time…
Building The Foundation Like many Sedona homes, this one was designed to capitalize on the views. “They were interested in something unique, something modern. And of course, they wanted to maximize the views,” says Paul Pellicani,…
Acclaimed local painter Christine Debrosky (who was featured in Open Portfolio in the December 2025 issue) will have an exhibit called “High Desert Seasons” on display at Sedona City Hall from now until April 30. The…
Break out your green attire this spring. The City of Sedona will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14. The parade will kick off at 10:30 a.m. at the Jordan Historical Park. The…
After a long day of hiking, we love to keep that healthy momentum going by digging into a refreshing, healthy snack. One of our absolute favorite go-to spots for lighter bites is West Sedona’s Berry Divine…
Jack’s Canyon is easy to reach, quiet (a real rarity these days) and offers up stunning views. The strenuous trail that is just over 13 miles out and back is also one of the more underrated…
PBS star Bob Ross is one of the most iconic artists of all time. The landscape painter is renowned for his show where he would teach others how to draw outdoor scenes in relatively short amounts…
Buckley is a happy and fun-loving cattle dog mix who is in need of a home. He is just about two years old and is so ready for a fresh start with a family who loves…
WHERE TO STAY L’AUBERGE DE SEDONA L’Auberge de Sedona beckons with a truly exceptional setting right by Oak Creek. The luxe and quaint Creekside cabins feature a plush bed, windows showcasing great views, a generously sized…
One of Sedona’s biggest and most celebrated events, the Sedona International Film Festival, is returning from Feb. 21 to March 1. During the week-long celebration, festival-goers can look forward to seeing hundreds of films, attending Q&As…
Matcha – or powdered green tea leaves – is a food trend that has taken off all over the country and has arrived in town. Local company Red Rock Matcha is supplying Sedona residents with its…
What a terrific month. We’re beginning the new year and all travels emanate from home, so that is what we’ll look at first. Check out the aerial shot of Sedona and then a couple of birds…
On Feb. 1, the Sedona Symphony will be playing works by the husband and wife team of Robert and Clara Schumann. Violinist and concertmaster Sarah Schreffler will play the couple’s “Three Romances” during the first half…
KATHARINE MILANO CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST Katharine Milano, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist who practices psychedelic assisted therapy and metaphysical psychology in Sedona, advises others to really think of self-care as an internal process. “We often look at…
Here at Sedona Monthly, we believe it’s important to support local businesses. And one perk of living in today’s digital world is that it’s easier than ever to purchase all sorts of products online without…
Sampson is a beautiful 5 ½ year old dog who is looking for a home. He was found as a stray in Sunset Park in Sedona back in June and has been waiting to find a…
Route 66 is celebrating its centennial all year. Founded on Nov. 11, 1926, the iconic, historic highway that ran through Flagstaff was a critical part of bringing Americans westward, and you can learn more about the…
Stepping into Vespa Healthy Italian Café is less about going out to eat and more about entering a story shaped and told through heritage, patience, and true devotion. The Zacchino Family has been sharing their authentic…
Some top acts are headed to Prescott Valley’s Findlay Toyota Center in the coming months. Styx will take the stage on Jan. 11. Three Dog Night is slated to play on Feb. 21. The colorful basketball…
Next time you’re driving around town, you might just spot a license plate designed by local artist Sterling West. These plates commemorate the Verde Valley Wine Trail. The image features vineyards along the bottom and red…
The trail that leads up Bear Mountain – named after the animal it resembles – may only be 2.3 miles one way, but it’s easily one of the most difficult hikes in Sedona. The challenge is…
It’s that time of year again as we near the end of the year and begin the season of winter. This is a time when life is shutting down, and creatures that hibernate are in shelter,…
When it comes to holiday dining in Sedona, it would be near impossible to top enjoying a meal in one of the igloos at ShadowRock Tap + Table at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock….
Looking to experience the holidays in another city? Then consider heading down South to Tucson. Southern Arizona’s largest city features holiday parades, an ice skating rink downtown and hotels that host plenty of festive events and…
Aurora is a beautiful 7-year-old retriever mix who is looking for a home. She was surrendered to the Humane Society of Sedona a year ago and is still looking for a family to love her and…
EXPERIENCING CHRISTMAS IN PRESCOTT If you love the holidays or are searching for a quick getaway to a festive place, you’re in luck. Prescott is only 90 minutes from Sedona and is called Arizona’s Christmas City…
When retiree Angela Thomas spotted the Sedona Toys for Tots collection box at Clark’s in the Village of Oak Creek, she had no idea her life was about to change. The box included a phone number…
THE NORTH POLE EXPERIENCE Nov. 21 – Dec. 24, 3 p.m. Thursday through Sundays Little America Hotel (2515 E. Butler Ave. in Flagstaff) 480-779-9679 northpoleexperience.com Families can take a peek inside Santa’s Workshop. Once at the…
Get in the holiday spirit early when you book a train ticket on the Verde Canyon Railroad’s “The Magical Christmas Journey.” Guests can enjoy a train that’s decked out in holiday lights along with a festive…
When summer’s high temps are finally in the past, we love to luxuriate in a long hike. The Boynton Canyon Trail is one of our favorite Sedona hikes that’s not too difficult and has plenty to…
West Sedona’s Eagle Dancer Estate is an outstanding property. The home, which features four casitas and one main casa, has plenty of striking features, but the materials are one of the many things about this impressive…
Broome & Orchard is the latest restaurant from The Shugrue family, the folks behind The Vault and La Vecina. The restaurant is housed in the former Sound Bites Grill location and features stunning red rock views…
Northern Arizona is a totally cool place in all respects. It’s a cool place to be with temperatures to match. Photo 1 (featured at the top of this page) was taken at 11,931.4 feet MSL (Mean…
Ray is a very shy cat who’s looking for a patient and loving forever home. Ray was surrendered to us from a hoarding situation and is one of the shyest cats of the group. He spends…
The Sedona Heritage Museum will be holding its annual Veterans’ Day Tribute on Nov. 11. The event will feature a flag ceremony, dignitaries, a veteran’s tribute and music. Following the program, attendees can enjoy complimentary food…
Prior to enjoying a hearty Thanksgiving meal, consider lacing up your sneakers and running a 5K with Sedona’s red rocks as the background. Run Sedona will host its Sedona Annual Turkey Trot on Nov. 27. The…
Welcome to the 2025 Hot List. In these pages, you’ll find plenty of small businesses, area attractions and places worth celebrating. Our team took engagement from our readers, and we checked it with recent news and…
Maxine is a very sweet and loving kitty who has had a rough time lately. She was bounced from home to home before being surrendered to the Humane Society of Sedona. When Maxine arrived at the…
Late sculptor John Henry Waddell and painter Ruth Holland Waddell resided near Sedona for decades and were important members of the local artistic community. In his lifetime, John created over 150 sculptures. One of his works,…
The Verde Valley Pottery Festival is returning to D.A.Ranch from Nov. 14 to 16. Attendees can look forward to seeing and purchasing pottery made by local artists, right before the holidays. On Nov. 14, guests can…
Consider heading to downtown Cottonwood on Nov. 8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a celebration of live music, local art, Arizona wine and even a car show for Walkin’ on Main. Attendees can enjoy…
For the first time ever, the City of Sedona, in conjunction with the Sedona Community Library, named two official poet laureates in the spring of 2025. Gary Every will serve a two-year term as Sedona’s poet…
Award-winning painters will flock to Sedona from Oct. 20 to 26 for the Sedona Arts Center’s Sedona Plein Air Festival. These artists will be painting live at a variety of locations in Red Rock Country. Specifically,…
One of the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village’s most celebrated events is returning. Dia de Los Muertos will take place from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1. On Oct. 30, the festivities kick off with the Marigold…
In this image (Above), American Avocets in breeding plumage hunt the shallow waters in Lake Pleasant looking for food, insects and crustaceans. They are on their way to breeding grounds and will be in Arizona in…
Looking to celebrate autumn? Then consider attending the City of Sedona’s Fest of Fall on Nov. 8 from 1 to 8 p.m. Held at Posse Grounds Pavillion, the event features food trucks, a beer tent, vendors,…
Artist Robert Holton – he created the cover for the April 2024 issue of Sedona Monthly – has a show at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix. Robert has created a total of 10 paintings for his…