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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Arizona, USA

Accommodation Types

Popular Choices

  • Luxury Resorts

    These high-end properties extensive amenities like spas, pools, fitness centers, fine dining restaurants, and concierge services. They often red rock views.

  • Hotels & Motels

    You find both national chain hotels and independent motels. These standard amenities like private rooms, bathrooms, and often a pool or breakfast service.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Locally-run B&Bs personalized service, an unique atmosphere reflecting local character, and typically include a homemade breakfast. They a more intimate experience.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Homes, condos, and apartments available through platforms like Vrbo and Airbnb. Vacation rentals more space, privacy, and amenities like full kitchens.

Outdoor Stays & Unique Options

  • Camping

    Designated campgrounds available within the Coconino National Forest (e.g., Pine Flat, Bootlegger, Manzanita campgrounds). Private RV parks also found throughout the region.

  • Glamping

    Emerging glamping options a luxurious camping experience, blending outdoor immersion with comfort. These often furnished tents or unique structures.

  • Spiritual Retreats

    Some B&Bs themed rooms or unique spiritual experiences, catering to those drawn to the area's New Age reputation.

  • House Sitting

    Platforms like TrustedHousesitters exchanges for those seeking extended, cost-effective stays with local immersion.

Neighborhood Guide

Sedona and the Verde Valley encompass several distinct areas, each a different character and proximity to attractions.

Uptown Sedona

Pros
  • Tourist-centric area with shops, galleries, restaurants.
  • Iconic, panoramic red rock views from many vantage points.
  • Close to many tour departure points.
  • Bustling atmosphere.
Cons
  • Can be very crowded during peak season.
  • Parking challenging and often expensive.
  • Lodging prices generally higher.
  • High noise levels due to traffic and crowds.

West Sedona

Pros
  • Quieter and more residential.
  • Good, direct access to numerous trailheads.
  • More practical amenities for daily needs.
  • Lodging prices often slightly lower than Uptown.
Cons
  • Less walkable for entertainment or dining.
  • Generally driving to most attractions.
  • Can feel spread out.
  • Fewer unique shops or galleries.

Village of Oak Creek

Pros
  • Quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Often better value for lodging.
  • Direct access to popular southern red rock trails.
  • Several golf courses nearby.
Cons
  • A short drive into Sedona for major attractions.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Fewer high-end dining choices.
  • Can feel somewhat removed from Sedona's core.

Additional Areas & Safety

Oak Creek Canyon (Highway 89A)

Beautiful natural setting, tranquil environment, direct access to creek activities and specific trails along the canyon. Limited dining and shopping, winding road can be slow, might feel isolated.

Verde Valley Towns (Cottonwood, Jerome)

Significantly lower accommodation prices. Good access to other Verde Valley attractions. Less touristy feel. A daily drive to Sedona for red rock hiking. Jerome very steep.

Booking Strategies

Strategic booking helps secure your preferred accommodation, especially during peak travel periods.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Spring/Fall): Book 3-6 months ahead for popular B&Bs, resorts, and rentals. Last-minute options very difficult to find and often with higher prices.
  • Shoulder Season (Late Feb, Early June, Early Dec): Book 1-3 months in advance. You may find more flexibility and slightly better rates.
  • Low Season (July-August, January): You often book 2-4 weeks in advance. Better deals might be found closer to your travel date.
  • Camping: For Coconino National Forest campgrounds, use Recreation.gov. These fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Websites like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Kayak a wide selection.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vrbo and Airbnb main platforms for homes, condos, and apartments.
  • Direct Booking: Many hotels, resorts, and B&Bs their own websites. Direct booking can sometimes better rates or special perks.
  • Camping: For Coconino National Forest campgrounds, use Recreation.gov to make reservations.

Deposit and Cancellation Policies

General Policies
  • Policies vary widely by property type and specific hotel. Always review deposit requirements and cancellation policies before confirming.
  • Luxury resorts and B&Bs often stricter cancellation policies (e.g., non-refundable deposits, deadlines weeks in advance).
  • Travel insurance cover non-refundable bookings if you need to cancel for a covered reason.
  • For popular chain hotels like IHG, check their Official site for member deals and flexible policies.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Accommodation prices significantly higher in spring and fall due to peak demand.
  • Summer and winter generally lower rates, though prices can still a slight bump around major holidays.
  • Budget accommodation like hostels (Hostelworld) more stable pricing during shoulder seasons.
  • Expect rates highest during school breaks and major local events.

Important Tips

Parking

Parking in Uptown Sedona can be challenging and expensive. Many properties guest parking, but confirm if charges apply.

Pet-Friendly Options

Many hotels and vacation rentals welcome pets. Always confirm pet policies and any additional fees directly with the property.

Accessibility

Inquire directly with properties regarding accessibility features, especially for older B&Bs or properties with varied terrain.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here top picks across different budget levels and traveler types, along with properties unique character.

Budget-Friendly <$120/night

Sedona Village Lodge

(Village of Oak Creek). This property good value in a quieter setting with basic, clean rooms.

  • Check their direct booking site for potential deals.
  • A peaceful stay away from Uptown crowds.
  • Convenient for southern red rock trails.
  • Limited amenities but comfortable.
Lux Verde Hotel

(Cottonwood). Located close to Old Town Cottonwood, this hotel a good balance of value and convenience.

  • Good base for exploring the Verde Valley.
  • Often more competitive pricing.
  • Access to wine tasting rooms and local restaurants.
  • About 20-30 minutes drive to Sedona's red rocks.

Mid-Range $120-$250/night

Best Western Plus Arroyo Roble Hotel & Creekside Villas

(Uptown Sedona). This hotel good views, a central Uptown location, and a range of amenities.

  • Includes pools and a fitness center.
  • Walkable to many shops and restaurants.
  • Ideal for first-time visitors.
  • Often good availability.
Arroyo Pinion Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection

(West Sedona). Located in West Sedona, convenient access to many popular hiking trails.

  • Quieter setting than Uptown.
  • Practical amenities for daily needs.
  • Good for hikers and those seeking a residential feel.
  • Value for its location.

Luxury $250+/night

  • L'Auberge de Sedona

    (Oak Creek Canyon). Known for creekside cottages, stunning natural setting along Oak Creek, and highly acclaimed fine dining.

  • Enchantment Resort

    (Exclusive Canyon). Set in a private canyon, this resort unparalleled red rock views and an award-winning spa.

  • Poco Diablo Resort

    (Sedona). Spacious grounds, multiple pools, and often a golf course, ample space and activities for families.

  • Luxury Vacation Rentals

    Private homes through Vrbo or Airbnb more space, privacy, and full amenities for groups or extended stays.

Family & Solo Traveler

  • Family-Friendly Resorts

    Resorts with multiple pools and activities suitable amenities for families with children, like Poco Diablo Resort.

  • Vacation Rentals (Vrbo/Airbnb)

    Homes and condos families with more space, separate bedrooms, and kitchen facilities, assisting meal prep.

  • Solo Traveler B&Bs

    Many Bed & Breakfasts a welcoming atmosphere and opportunities for social interaction with hosts and other guests.

  • Solo Hikers Hotels

    Hotels in West Sedona a good choice for solo hikers due to their direct access to numerous trailheads.

Long Stays & Historic Gems

Long-Stay Accommodations

For extended visits, consider options that weekly or monthly discounts.

  • Vacation rentals on Vrbo or Airbnb frequently better rates for longer stays.
  • Some hotels extended stay rates for guests planning to stay a week or more.
  • Look for properties with kitchenettes or full kitchens.
  • Consider Cottonwood for more affordable long-term options.
Cultural & Historical Significance

These properties a distinct aesthetic or historical background.

  • Sedona Rouge Resort & Spa (now Amber's Inn & Suites at Sedona Rouge) for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture.
  • Jerome Grand Hotel (Jerome), once a hospital, famous for its history and reported paranormal activity.
  • Connor Hotel (Jerome), a historic hotel right on Jerome's main street, a feel for its mining past.
  • Certain B&Bs in older parts of the Verde Valley with unique local stories.

Important Considerations

Red Rock Pass

Required for parking at many trailheads. Purchase passes at visitor centers or vending machines. Display it clearly in your vehicle.

Vortex Sites

Free to access. Information on specific locations and perceived energies available at local New Age shops and the Sedona Visitor Center.

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Open daily, check official website for hours. Admission free, donations welcome. Photography permitted inside with respect.