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The One Thing You Should Know Before Visiting Sedona

Mountains in AZ

Beautiful, but Too Crowded!

Dear Polite Travelers,

Widely recognized for its natural beauty and spiritual qualities, Sedona has always been one of my bucket-list items.  So once Covid took a break—and we’re both triple vaccinated—we hopped into our trusty Honda and drove 800 miles southeast to the land of crimson mountains. 

The Drive from Flagstaff to Sedona

Since we live in California, we drove Interstate 40 east to Flagstaff, AZ.  If visiting Arizona, please stop in this lovely city.  It’s greener than most of the state, the people are young and as vibrant as the landscape, and there are a couple of Starbucks just waiting for those like us.  Besides the interesting locals—and caffeinated beverages—our junction, Highway 89A/17 South, for Sedona is conveniently located in Flagstaff. 

Drive Slowly & Enjoy Highway 89A South

Warning, this is a winding, slow road, but one you are guaranteed to enjoy.  Still, it’s not wise to drive in the dark.  The road drops off in places and the elk are huge!  Drive during the day and enjoy the view. 

Mainstreet IS the Highway?!  Really?

One downside about Sedona is the road leading into town is the main road and Highway 89A.  This means a steady stream of vehicles traveling through town much of the day.  Yikes!  Thankfully, there are several roundabouts to slow traffic for uptown-loving pedestrians. Of which, there are plenty. (Hotel review)

Speaking of Uptown

Sedona is a small town with over four million visitors a year.  It’s difficult to avoid a crowd, even if hiking, especially after March 1—the beginning of the high season.  Mistakenly, we thought one week into March would be safe, but no.  Maskless crowds packed every inch of the place making Sedona a tad uncomfortable.  Even attempting to find a restaurant early in the evening was a chore.  (Restaurant reviews)

One Short Shopping Stop

We did make one short stop early afternoon to a few of the uptown jewelry stores.  Due to my years of presenting workshops at the Diné College in Tsaile, AZ, I have since wanted a Navajo turquoise bracelet.  We found a simple one made by the Navajo artist “ELB” Emma Bonney at Indian Touch of Sedona (221 N. State Road 89A).  I love it!  Please don’t accept the first price the dealers give you.  Most will come down in price.

Beyond Uptown

Because uptown was elbow-to-elbow tourists, we allowed ourselves to walk the main part of uptown early in the morning.  Very few shops were open, but it was pleasant.  Still, we need to see more of the surrounding area.  So, we drove a few miles out to see the deservedly hyped Bell Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Courthouse Butte, and Cathedral Rock.  Seeing these landmarks in person was a true joy.

Be advised.  Even though we visited the Chapel of the Holy Cross early in the morning, it was busy.  I mean crazy busy.  So, yes.  It was a must-see, but not necessarily a comfortable visit.

Was the Visit Worth the Drive & Will We Visit Again?

No matter the natural beauty and pleasantness of the locals made this visit tolerable for those with immune issues or those simply concerned with staying healthy.  I advise visiting this majestic location during the slow season.  Bundle up and enjoy the area without the crowds.  For us, we drove.  We witnessed the beauty firsthand and will reserve our travel time and cash for other locations. 

Until next time, my polite travelers, farewell. 

More by The Polite Traveler

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For the Love of Art! Don’t Miss The Palm Springs Art Museum

How We Saved 50 % on Our Mid-Week 2-Day Escape 

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