Family Trip @ New Years - 3 Questions

Question

Hi! First time to Sedona traveling with my husband and four sons ages 15, 14, 10 and 5. We are booked at the Courtyard Marriott for our stay. I have three quick questions and appreciate any help!

1.) We will be in Sedona for a few days over New Years. Any restaurant recommendations where we should book dinner in advance? Particularly for New Years Eve and New Years Day?

2.) Are Pink Jeep Tours worth it? If yes, which do you recommend for this age group that will be worth scenery or areas we won't go to with hiking?

3.) We are interested in mild to moderate hikes. What are best ones to make sure we do while there?

Thank you so much!

Answer

Visiting Sedona over New Year’s with your family is a wonderful idea! The town offers stunning red rock scenery, accessible hikes for all ages, and memorable experiences like Pink Jeep Tours. Here’s a detailed guide for your questions:

1) Restaurant Recommendations for New Year’s Eve and Day:

New Year’s is a busy time in Sedona, so making reservations is highly recommended, especially for dinner. Consider a mix of family-friendly and slightly more upscale options:

The Hudson: Upscale casual, great views, American cuisine. Kid-friendly options available.
Elote Café: Highly regarded for Southwestern cuisine. Reservations are crucial; popular spot for locals and visitors.
Creekside American Bistro: Good mix of American and international dishes, with patio views.
SaltRock Southwest Kitchen: Modern Southwestern flavors, large portions, family-friendly.
Wildflower Bread Company: Casual option for breakfast or lighter meals, good for New Year’s Day.

Plan to reserve dinner for New Year’s Eve at least a month in advance. For New Year’s Day, many restaurants offer brunch specials, so booking early will save stress.

2) Pink Jeep Tours – Are they worth it?

Yes, Pink Jeep Tours are highly recommended, especially for families who want to see areas inaccessible by normal vehicles or hiking. They are fun, scenic, and entertaining for all ages. For your family, consider:

Broken Arrow Tour: Iconic Sedona tour, moderate off-road adventure, dramatic red rock scenery. Some gentle inclines suitable for your 5-year-old.
Diamondback Gulch Tour: Longer, more adventurous but still family-friendly. Stunning vistas, combines some thrill with accessible views.
Outlaw Trail Tour: Shorter and less bumpy, good option if your younger kids prefer less intensity.

All tours provide commentary about the geology, history, and culture, which adds educational value for teens. Make reservations in advance, especially over holidays.

3) Mild to Moderate Hikes in Sedona:

With a mix of ages and your youngest being 5, mild to moderate hikes with great views are ideal. Consider these:

Bell Rock Pathway: Easy to moderate, iconic rock formations, flexible distance for kids.
Cathedral Rock Trail: Short but steep, stunning vistas. For your 10-year-old and older teens, a portion is manageable; adults can go further if desired.
Crescent Moon Ranch to Red Rock Crossing: Flat, easy hike along Oak Creek with beautiful scenery, perfect for family photography.
Airport Mesa Loop: Easy, panoramic views of Sedona’s red rocks. Ideal for sunset hikes.
Boynton Canyon Trail: Moderate, shaded sections, great for spotting unique rock formations and enjoying nature.

Additional Tips:

Start hikes earlier in the day to avoid crowds and for cooler temperatures.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layered clothing as temperatures can fluctuate.
Consider a mix of Pink Jeep tours and short hikes so everyone in the family stays engaged and not over-tired.

With this plan, your family will enjoy iconic Sedona views, accessible hikes, and memorable New Year’s meals without overpacking your days.