Without the past, today’s adventures wouldn’t exist, and when traveling, learning about the history of the places visited gives travelers a greater appreciation of the differences experienced today. I Love Sedona loves everything about our hometown of Sedona, including its rich and colorful history, and today we would like to take you on a journey to days long gone. Offering echoes and whispers from those who no longer walk among us, your Arizona adventures exploring the historical sites of Sedona Arizona will be that much richer simply by following the options we provide in this guide.
Day 1: A Trip in the Way Back Machine
Although the history of America is not as far reaching as our European counterparts, Sedona’s does go back further than most, as evidenced by the Palatki Heritage Site and the Native American people who lived in the area. Located at 10290 North Forest Service Road #795, the ruins of the Sinagua people date back to 1100-1400 CE and tell their life history with stunning impact. Another popular Sinagua historical site of Sedona Arizona, Montezuma Castle National Monument, can be found in the nearby town of Camp Verde, located just 33 miles south of Palatki, an easy drive that allows visitors to further explore the culture of these cliff dwelling people. The Palatki Heritage site offers two separate pueblos built into the cliffs, suggesting that two families lived in this spot and also feature pictographs and petroglyphs that are estimated to be between 3000 and 5000 years old. Reservations are required to visit Palatki, protecting the landscape and structures that are eroding from years of exploration and can be made here. Montezuma is open every day of the year, closing early on Christmas and New Years Eve and does not require advance reservations.
These adventures will take up most of the day, so plan on starting with a delicious breakfast at Nick’s West Side, one of our favorite local diners located at 2920 AZ-89A, and by the time lunch rolls around, a visit to La Casita in Camp Verde will give you an authentic taste of the Southwest. Dinner can be held at home, perhaps barbecuing on provided grills to enjoy a meal similar to what those ancient people may have experienced!
Day 2: Tlaquepaque Explorations
When you first visit Tlaquepaque Shopping and Arts Village, you may have the feeling that the center has been around for eons, but although it has been a part of Sedona’s history as a prime tourist destination, it has only existed since the early 1970s. It offers, however, a beautiful example of the history of art in Sedona with a selection of galleries that will make you wish you could own everything found under their roofs. And because there is also a selection of restaurants, a brewery, and a wine bar as well as dessert spots, travelers can spend the entire time within the walls of Tlaquepaque, soaking in the ambience and vibe as you explore the works of some of the most talented artists in the world. Enjoy breakfast at the Secret Garden Café, lunch at the Oak Creek Brewery & Grill, and a fine dinner accompanied by some of the best wine in the region at Rene Restaurant & Wine Bar. History doesn’t always have to be dry and dusty, and a visit to Tlaquepaque is all the proof you need!
Day 3: All About Sedona
The history of Sedona Arizona surrounds you, visible not just in the scenery that you may recognize from old Westerns that were often filmed here, but in the structures that have stood the test of time. Look up and see if you can spot the iconic Chapel of the Holy Cross, perched high above Sedona and providing a peaceful landmark since construction finished in 1956. Explore where the first settlers of Sedona have found their eternal rest with a visit to Cook’s Cedar Grove Cemetery, 115 Airport Road, whose inhabitants were first interred in 1918. Or combine the search for history with a little more shopping when you visit the Hummingbird House, located at 100 Brewer Road, you can explore the confines of what was Sedona’s first General Store, coming home with a reminder of your visit with the purchase of a glass hummingbird. The last establishment we suggest you visit on your last day in town, is the Sedona Heritage Museum & Park, 735 Jordan Road. Originally Jordan Ranch, you will be able to leave Arizona feeling confident that you learned everything there is to know about the town of Sedona, after exploring the exhibits and artifacts found here!
For over 70 years the Cowboy Club has been feeding hungry guests in one form or another, offering a chance to sit where your favorite golden era Hollywood Stars once dined! John Wayne, Donna Reed, Rock Hudson, and Joan Crawford are just a few of the glitterati who dined in this historic restaurant, showing that the history of Sedona Arizona can be delicious as well!
Reserve your favorite I Love Sedona sanctuary today!
