4th of July in Sedona

Question

We will be in Sedona over th 4th of July, any suggestions on what to do? We are a family of 4, Mom, Dad and kids in their mid to late teens. We thinking of booking the verde railroad for the 4th.

Answer

Spending the 4th of July in Sedona is a fantastic choice! The town offers beautiful scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, and fun local events. Since you're traveling with teens, I think the Verde Railroad sounds like a great way to kick off your celebration, but there are also plenty of other options for activities and events that could make your visit even more memorable. Here’s a mix of things to consider for your Sedona 4th of July trip:

1. Verde Railroad on the 4th of July

The Verde Canyon Railroad is an excellent choice, especially for a scenic family-friendly experience. The train ride offers stunning views of the Red Rocks, desert landscapes, and wildlife, making it a relaxing and unique way to spend the day. The 4th of July special train ride typically includes a themed experience with patriotic music, food, and even a bit of history about the area, which should be fun for the entire family.

2. Sedona’s 4th of July Parade and Fireworks

While Sedona is a smaller town, it still offers a small-town feel for its 4th of July celebration, including a local parade. The parade generally takes place in the morning and features a mix of local bands, floats, and community groups. The atmosphere is family-friendly and relaxed, and it's a great way to immerse yourself in the town's festive spirit.

Parade: The parade is a classic 4th of July tradition in Sedona and usually kicks off in the morning around 9:00 AM. Make sure to arrive early to grab a good spot along the route, as it tends to get busy.
Fireworks: While Sedona does not have a large-scale fireworks display, you can typically enjoy some smaller local shows in the evening. A great viewing spot is the airport mesa, where you can take in a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding landscapes while watching any local fireworks.

3. Outdoor Adventures and Hiking

While in Sedona, take advantage of the stunning landscape and explore the great outdoors. Since it will be summer, it's best to plan hikes early in the day to avoid the heat. Here are a few family-friendly options:

Cathedral Rock: A popular hike that offers stunning views of the red rock formations. The hike is moderate and can be done in a couple of hours, making it a great morning activity.
Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte: This is an easier, family-friendly trail that provides incredible views of the surrounding red rock formations. It’s perfect for a short morning or evening hike.
Pink Jeep Tours: If your teens are into a bit more adventure, consider booking a Pink Jeep Tour. These guided off-road tours explore some of the more rugged areas of Sedona, and they can be a lot of fun for older kids and adults alike.

4. Exploring the Local Art Scene

Sedona is known for its vibrant art scene. Spend some time browsing the local galleries and exploring the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, a beautiful spot with charming architecture and local artisans. There are often special 4th of July sales or exhibitions that might be of interest.

Tlaquepaque Arts Village: A beautiful outdoor shopping area that features galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s a great spot to wander around and enjoy some local culture.
Art Walks: Depending on the day of your visit, Sedona may have an art walk event where galleries stay open late and you can enjoy live music and refreshments while exploring the local art scene.

5. Relax and Enjoy the Scenery

After all the excitement of the day, consider winding down with some quiet time. Head to one of Sedona’s many scenic viewpoints, such as the Chapel of the Holy Cross or Airport Mesa, and take in the breathtaking views of the red rocks and valleys. These spots are ideal for sunset viewing, and it’s a great way to end the day with some peace and quiet.

6. Local Dining Options

Don’t forget to enjoy the local cuisine while you’re in town. Sedona has many fantastic restaurants offering everything from casual dining to upscale eateries. For a more laid-back 4th of July experience, you can grab a bite at a local BBQ joint or enjoy a meal with a view at one of the many restaurants that overlook the red rocks.

The Hudson: An upscale, family-friendly option with great views of the red rocks.
Creekside American Bistro: A great choice for a casual dinner, especially if you’re looking to dine outdoors by the creek.

Conclusion

Whether you’re taking a relaxing train ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad, enjoying the local parade, hiking the red rocks, or simply soaking in the beauty of Sedona, there’s plenty to do for a family with teens. Don’t forget to plan ahead for the 4th of July events and book any tours or dinners in advance, as it can get busy during the holiday. Enjoy your 4th of July celebration in Sedona!

4th of July in Sedona

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