Sedona Hotel and Sightseeing Recommendations

Question

Looking for both hotel (3 or 4 star) and sightseeing recommendations for a 2 day visit for a family of 5 (3 kids aged 10-12) where one parent has to work till 2pm while the other parent takes the kids sightseeing until parent #1 is ready to join.

Which attractions are best for kids this age (please no strenuous or technical hiking) and which areas are best for accommodations that don't involve long drives to these attractions?

Sorry for the general nature of the question.

Answer

For a 2-day visit to Sedona with kids aged 10-12, it’s best to stay in areas that are central to the main attractions to minimize driving. Uptown Sedona or the Village of Oak Creek are ideal locations as they provide easy access to scenic viewpoints, shopping, and restaurants.

Recommended 3-4 star hotels suitable for families include:

Arabella Hotel Sedona – Family-friendly, pools, and easy access to Uptown Sedona attractions.
Sedona Real Inn & Suites – Spacious suites with kitchenettes, convenient location near shops and dining.
Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock – Great for families, includes pool, golf, and close to Red Rock State Park.
Courtyard by Marriott Sedona – Comfortable, modern rooms, near shops and trails suitable for short walks.

For sightseeing with kids without strenuous hiking, consider the following options:

Chapel of the Holy Cross – Easy walk, impressive architecture and scenic views.
Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) – Drive and stop at multiple viewpoints; short walks are available at certain pullouts.
Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte – Short, mostly flat trails that are suitable for kids to explore safely.
Slide Rock State Park – Natural water slide, fun for kids (summer months only, check weather conditions).
Palatki Heritage Site – Short guided walk to see ancient cliff dwellings and rock art.
Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive – Stunning views, with stops for photo opportunities and easy access to picnic areas.

Additional kid-friendly activities:

Visit Uptown Sedona for shops, ice cream, and art galleries.
Take a short jeep tour (many companies offer kid-friendly options).
Consider a short stargazing program in the evening if the kids are not too tired.

By staying centrally and focusing on short walks, scenic drives, and interactive experiences, one parent can take the kids sightseeing until the other parent is ready to join without overexertion or long drives. The combination of these activities should keep the kids engaged while allowing flexibility in timing.

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