About Sedona
Experience the captivating energy of Sedona, where every red rock whispers a story of time, spirit, and discovery.
Beyond the Red Rocks
In This Newsletter
From its quiet Indigenous roots to its rise as a haven for artists, hikers, and mindful travelers, Sedona has always inspired discovery. Explore how Sedona began, what shaped its character, and what makes it a destination worth slowing down for — plus links to help you plan your visit.
Things to Do
From hiking red rock trails to browsing local galleries, Sedona offers an experience for every pace. Art festivals, stargazing nights, spiritual vortex tours, creekside concerts, and scenic drives are just the beginning. Whether you’re planning your first visit or visit frequently, there’s always something new to explore — or a quiet moment waiting to be rediscovered.
Sedona: Then & Now
Sedona’s story is built in rock, sky, and human discovery—not in grand sweep, but in quiet turns. The land itself predates memory, but people’s relationship with it has evolved in ways that still draw travelers today.
Origin Story
Thousands of years ago, Indigenous peoples like the Sinagua lived, traded, and farmed across this land, leaving behind cliff dwellings and rock art that still speak today. Over time, the Yavapai and Apache also made the region part of their seasonal pathways.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, settlers arrived in the Verde Valley and Oak Creek Canyon. One of them, John James Thompson, planted orchards and homesteaded along Oak Creek. Later, Theodore “T.C.” Schnebly and his wife Sedona influenced the area’s formal naming. When a post office was needed, the name Sedona was submitted and accepted, honoring Mrs. Schnebly.
Sedona’s Growth and Tourism
For much of its early life, Sedona was quiet and remote. But its red rock panoramas, soaring skies, and creative spirit began to draw artists, photographers, and visionaries. In the mid-20th century, Sedona emerged as a gallery and retreat hub. With roads improved, more lodging opened, and tourism became a key driver in the local economy.
Sedona Today
Modern Sedona balances its small-town roots with a global presence. It remains a destination for nature lovers, wellness seekers, and art enthusiasts, while also offering refined dining, boutique shopping, and curated outdoor experiences.
Red rock landmarks like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock have become symbols of Sedona’s identity. Vortex seekers, hikers, plein air painters, and casual road-trippers all find something here. City regulations protect dark skies, limit sprawl, and preserve Oak Creek’s fragile ecosystem. Tourism is still central, but there’s a growing emphasis on mindful travel—explore, engage, and depart with care.
Whether you stay a weekend or a season, Sedona invites you to slow down and notice the beauty between the moments. To see how each season sculpts the land in new ways, check out our full guide: Seasons in Sedona.
Newsletter
Sign up for our quarterly newsletter and bring a little bit of Briar Patch home. Each season we share stories from Oak Creek Canyon, favorite recipes from the inn, upcoming specials, and thoughtful ways to nurture your connection with nature.
