One day in Sedona

Question

My husband and I are driving to Lake Havasu from Michigan. Thinking of spending a night in Sedona somewhere around Jan 28 or 29. Looking for suggestions on what to see on our quick visit and perhaps a moderately priced (up to $150) place to stay. TIA

Answer

Spending one night in Sedona is a perfect way to enjoy the red rock scenery and get a taste of the town’s charm. Even with a short visit, you can hit several highlights and still have time for a relaxing evening.

Sights and Activities for a Quick Visit:

Chapel of the Holy Cross: A stunning architectural landmark built into the red rocks, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. A short visit can be very rewarding.
Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock: Both are iconic red rock formations. If you want a short hike, the Bell Rock Trail is moderate and accessible, while Cathedral Rock has a steeper, more challenging climb to the viewpoint.
Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive: Drive along this beautiful canyon, which has viewpoints and small pull-offs for photos. Stops at Slide Rock State Park are possible if you have time, though it’s quieter in January.
Uptown Sedona: Browse local shops, art galleries, and cafes. A quick stroll through this area gives a sense of the town without taking too much time.

Evening Options:

Catch sunset at Airport Mesa or Airport Viewpoint for one of the best panoramic views of Sedona’s red rocks.
If you’re interested in stargazing, Sedona has designated dark-sky areas nearby. Even from slightly outside town, you can get excellent night sky views.

Moderately Priced Accommodations (up to $150/night):

Best Western Plus Arroyo Roble Hotel & Creekside Villas – comfortable, centrally located, often around $130–150 depending on booking time.
GreenTree Inn Sedona – budget-friendly, simple accommodations, usually under $150.
Sedona Village Lodge – a small, charming option close to Uptown Sedona, moderate rates around $140–150.
Local Airbnb or vacation rentals – can sometimes offer good deals for one night, especially in January off-season.

Tips:

Arrive early if you plan to do scenic hikes or drive through Oak Creek Canyon, as parking can fill even in the off-season at popular trailheads.
Check sunset times in late January; it will get dark around 5:30 pm, so plan your final viewpoint accordingly.
Dress in layers, as January can be chilly in the morning and evening but mild during the day.

With this plan, you can enjoy a satisfying glimpse of Sedona’s red rock beauty, take a short hike, experience local shops, and still have a relaxing evening before continuing your drive to Lake Havasu.

One day in Sedona

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