I’ve always heard that Sedona is magical. But honestly, no amount of pictures or stories can prepare you for the moment you first step onto the main street in Uptown. I parked, took a few steps, and my breath was taken away. The giant, fiery red rocks that seemed to embrace this little town… it was love at first sight.
Uptown Sedona is essentially the “heart” and original historic center of the town, built on a hill. And this main street, known as N State Rte 89A (or simply AZ-89A), is not just a road, it’s the main artery of all the magic.
I spent one perfect day in Uptown, exploring every nook and cranny, and I’m going to share my full itinerary, from morning coffee to sunset dinner, with all the prices, secret finds, and (most importantly) money-saving tips.
BEFORE THE TRIP: HOW I SAVED HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS
Don’t let Sedona’s price tag scare you off: My top Expedia and Groupon life hacks.
Sedona can be expensive. That’s a fact. Hotels in Uptown itself (like the Orchards Inn or Best Western) often range in the $250-$450 range per night, while luxury options like L’Auberge de Sedona easily top $1,000+.
My first stop was Expedia. I spotted their “Sedona Vacations from $525” offer. The secret is to book a package. When I bundled my hotel + car rental, I actually got some great deals that I wouldn’t have seen if I had booked separately. It saved me at least $100 on my stay.
Tip: Also check Expedia’s “Things to Do” section. They often offer discounts on tours (like the famous Pink Jeep Tours) when you book them with your hotel.
Next, Groupon. I never go to a new city without checking out Groupon. I typed in “Sightseeing & Tours in Sedona” and was blown away. I saw deals for up to 50% off vortex tours, jeep tours, and wine tastings. I happened to have the promo code HALLOWEEN for an extra 30% off, and I got the jeep tour, which would normally cost $120, for just $65. That’s a huge savings!
Tip: Search for “Gourmet Burger” or “Pizza” on Groupon – you can often find 2-for-1 deals for local restaurants.
General Tip: My best free life hack? If you’re staying outside of Uptown, take the free Sedona Shuttle. Parking in Uptown is a nightmare (and there’s a fee), but the shuttle is a godsend, especially on weekends.
MORNING (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) – COFFEE, VIEWS AND… WILD BOARS?
9:00 AM – Arrival and Coffee:
I started my day at Sedona Center. It’s a great place to start. I grabbed a large latte (about $6) at Breeze Cafe to wake me up. But the real gem is Canyon Breeze Restaurant right there. I went out onto their huge patio… and almost dropped my coffee. The views of the red rocks (including the famous Snoopy Rock) from here are simply incredible. It’s a free panorama with your coffee! I’ve seen their menu: gourmet burgers ($18-25), smoothies. Definitely a great place for lunch with a view.
10:00 – Photo Hunt: Javelinas on Parade!
You can’t miss this! Scattered throughout Uptown are the “Javelinas on Parade” – cute, brightly painted statues of wild pigs (Havelinas). It’s free and fun. I found a “Hairalina” (all in funny hair curlers!) and a “Piggy” Bank near one of the banks.
FAMILY TIP: This is a perfect way to keep the kids entertained! Turn it into a game of “Find All the Havelinas” while you’re shopping. They’ll love it.
10:30 AM – Arts & Crafts:
Next, I delved into Clear Creek Trading Company. It’s not just a gift shop, it’s a museum. It features authentic Native American crafts, amazing turquoise jewelry (some costing thousands of dollars), and art. The prices are high, but the quality is incredible. It’s worth a visit just to look around and experience the history.
BEYOND UPTOWN: THE MAGICAL WORLD OF TLAQUEPAQUE
Now, while my ideal day was centered around the pedestrian-only Uptown, I can’t help but mention its “cousin” south of the Y-junction. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is something incredible. It’s not just shops, it’s a meticulously recreated Mexican village with cobblestones, fountains, covered galleries, and giant sycamore trees. It has a completely different, more laid-back, artsy vibe. You’ll find high-end art galleries, sculptures, and unique boutiques here. It’s an adventure in itself, worth setting aside at least a few hours (maybe the next day).
LUNCH (12:00 – 13:30) – QUICK, TASTY, AND ATMOSPHERIC
I was ready to eat an elephant (or a Hairalina!).
Uptown has options for every taste:
My Pick: Outlaw Grille Restaurant
I wanted something quick but filling. Outlaw Grille was the perfect choice. It’s a no-frills, counter-service place tucked away from the main drag. I got their classic cheeseburger (around $16) and sat on their charming patio. Delicious, quick, and a great value for Sedona.
Pizza with a View: Sedona Pizza Company
Located in Sinagua Plaza (320 AZ-89A). I was walking by and the smell of the wood-fired oven was incredible! This is a great option for families. (Pizza prices: $18-26).
Mexican Chic: La Vecina
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale. This is a modern Mexican restaurant. I hear their smoked chicken tacos and margaritas ($14-18) are some of the best in town.
AFTER LUNCH (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM) – BIG SHOPPING MARATHON
From crystal and wine to cowboy boots, it’s time to shop along AZ-89A!
1:30 PM – Start at Sinagua Plaza (320 AZ-89A):
This is not just a mall, it’s a historic building. Very atmospheric place with a great patio.
Sedona Harley-Davidson: Even if you’re not a biker, you can find the coolest Sedona-branded t-shirts here ($30-45).
Cactus Carlos of Sedona: Classic souvenir shop. I bought magnets and a jar of prickly pear jam here – my favorite edible souvenir.
Winery 1912: Yes, right on the plaza! I stopped by for a tasting (about $15-20 for 5 samples). They offer 100% Arizona wines. A great way to cool off and relax.
2:30 PM – Oak Creek Marketplace (235 AZ-89A):
I crossed the street to this charming marketplace.
The Naja: Wow. If you’re looking for authentic Native American jewelry, this is the place to go. It’s top notch. Some of the necklaces and belt buckles are just works of art. I just looked around and it was like being in a museum.
Made In Arizona Wine and Gifts (235 AZ-89A #10): My favorite gift shop! Everything, as the name suggests, is made in Arizona. I bought some Habanero hot sauce and local honey here.
3:30 PM – Searching for “Vibe” and Ice Cream:
Earthbound Trading Co. (300 AZ-89A Ste 2): I love this store for its boho vibe. Loose clothing, huge selection of crystals (much cheaper than esoteric stores), decor… And yes, I found them – Organic Goodness incense sticks (about $4 a pack). My backpack now smells of sandalwood and lavender.
The Chai Spot: I was looking for home decor and came across this place. It’s both a Pakistani-style teahouse and a store. Very cozy, colorful pillows and rugs.
Uptown Mall: It’s more like a collection of stores. I walked around looking at cowboy boots and crystals of all shapes and sizes.
4:30 PM – Sweet Break (A MUST FOR KIDS!):
My legs were buzzing and it felt like an oasis. You have two great options:
Sabrina’s Gourmet Ice Cream (in Sedona Center): This is it! 16 flavors! It’s hard to choose. They also do milkshakes, sundaes, and “snow cones” (perfect for a hot day). (One scoop ~ $5-6).
Black Cow Cafe (229 N State Rte 89A): I passed by this iconic place. They’re not only known for their homemade ice cream, but also their pies. I’ll definitely stop by for a slice of apple pie next time!
EVENING (5:00 PM – 7:30 PM) – SUNSET AND DINNER WITH HISTORY
5:00 PM – Golden Hour:
The best part of the day begins. I headed to the Matterhorn (Shoppes at Matterhorn). From there, you have one of the best free sunset views in Uptown. No need to drive anywhere or climb a cliff. Just stand there and watch the rocks start to “burn” with orange, pink, and deep red. It’s pure magic.
6:00 PM – Dinner at Legend
Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits (241 N State Rte 89A): I made a reservation for dinner at Legend. Cowboy Club is more than just a restaurant. This building was a saloon in the 1940s that John Wayne, Elvis Presley, and other stars would frequent while filming Westerns in and around Sedona.
Atmosphere: Wild West haute cuisine. Fireplaces, heavy leather chairs, historical photos on the walls.
Food: I decided to be bold! I tried their famous Cactus Fries with prickly pear sauce (about $15) and Rattlesnake Sausage as an appetizer. Yes, really! And it was amazingly delicious.
Prices: This is a “special” dinner. Main courses (steaks, ribs) cost around $30-55+. Their famous bison burger is about $25. It was worth every penny for the atmosphere, history, and incredible food.
CONCLUSION: Feeling and completion
My perfect day in Uptown Sedona ended with a suitcase of new trinkets, photos of red rocks, the smell of juniper and incense (from the Organic Goodness sticks in my backpack), the smiles of my kids (if they were with me), and a heart full of inspiration. It was a day where nature, shopping, delicious food, and a family atmosphere all came together to create one wonderful story.
I invite you to use this plan — adapt it to your pace, budget, and desires. Sedona has so much to offer, and this could be the day you want to talk about at home. Whether you’re traveling with or without kids — write down which scenario works best for you and which places you want to visit.
My top tip? Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking (and marveling) a lot more than you expected.
Have an unforgettable perfect day in Sedona!
