Sedona: What to Eat & Do

Sedona is renowned across the country for its beautiful views, hiking trails, spiritual community, cute boutiques and great food. It's also just two hours away from Phoenix, perfect for a fun day trip or a weekend getaway. Keep in mind though if you are planning to visit now or for the rest of the summer, it can get pretty hot up there, a lesson that this writer recently learned when exploring a new hiking path in the middle of the day (the temperature was 104 degrees, only about 10 degrees cooler than Phoenix!). Still, you'll truly feel world's away from home looking at the picturesque red rocks and dark skies, perfect for some serious stargazing. Here's a quick guide on what to do and where to go for some of the best eats in town.

If you're a hiking fan, Cathedral Rock is a must. Starting at the main trailhead, you'll cross a wash and head straight up a rock pathway. There are some parts where you need to use your hands to climb, and it's narrow enough that only one person can go up and down at time, so always look out for others. Another excellent hike is the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon. It's shaded by trees and involves crossing more than a few streams, but you'll definitely feel lost in nature in a good way. Lastly, you've probably seen people post pictures of themselves at Devils Bridge on social media. Walking on the natural bridge is allowed, but make sure to stay away from the edge. It's a short but steep way up and definitely worth it for the amazing views!

Another thing to do in Sedona is to walk around downtown. Main Street has a bunch of little souvenir shops along with places to buy crystals, jewelry and candles if you're exploring your spiritual side. Stock up on your Western gear like cowboy hats and boots, visit an art gallery or stop for a drink or bite to eat. Most of the restaurants have outdoor seating. If you want a sweet treat, stop into Sedona Fudge Company or keep down Main Street to catch a perfect glimpse of the mountains in the background.

As far as other restaurants to go to, the Hudson has both amazing food and an outdoor deck that's perfect for watching the sunset. Standout dishes include the Parmesan Chicken Scaloppini and Ellie's Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie. You'll be craving the margaritas at Javelina Cantina. Order a frozen one in flavors like strawberry and mango along with the Rotisserie Chicken and Goat Cheese Enchiladas with the corn sauce and the Vegetarian’s Choice served with a green chile corn tamale and a cheese relleno topped with tomatillo sauce. For breakfast, stop by Mesa Grill at the Sedona Airport. You'll get a cool view of planes landing and taking off while enjoying a mimosa flight or Bloody Mary. The Buttermilk Biscuits and Sausage Gravy and the Flush and Fold Mesa Omelette are delicious. And, if you're looking for pizza, look no further than Pisa Lisa. It's one of Chef Lisa Dahl's restaurants, and the customer service is excellent along with the grub. Get the Caesar Brutus salad and the Melanzane Parmigiana pizza with caramelized onions.