My best friend and I live in different parts of the country — we’ve been friends for 24 years and have only spent about a third of that time in the same city — so taking trips together is one of our favorite ways to reconnect. There’s something euphoric about packing light, enjoying a few nights of sleepovers in a beautiful place, and exploring without any obligations. Dessert for breakfast? Yes, please.
On our latest trip I visited a new place: Sedona. My friend grew up going there, and she was the perfect guide. Between the dramatic red-rock views, warm days, mystical vortex sites, crystal-filled shops, and an irresistible pool, I was instantly smitten.
Where We Stayed In Sedona
We splurged on Enchantment Resort for three nights. It was pricey by our usual standards, but splitting a room made it more affordable and felt like a treat worth having. The property feels like a village of casitas set among the mountains, with multiple pools, restaurants, a spa, and even a chef’s garden where the resort grows herbs and vegetables used in its kitchens.
Our suite had a small kitchen area, a beverage fridge, a cozy fireplace, a large bathroom, and a balcony with mountain views. Every morning we stepped out and often saw wildlife down below — more on that shortly. Walking around the resort to visit pools and restaurants felt easy and restful, and the on-site events like star-gazing added to the experience.
We’re grateful for partners who understand how meaningful these trips are and cheer us on while staying home with the kids. It’s good for everyone to get a break, even if the vacations look different for each household.
The mountain setting never lost its novelty — towering red-rock vistas surround the resort and provide a dramatic backdrop no matter where you are on the property.
Before I share more photos, my friend made a playful AI poster for our trip — imperfect spelling and all — and we loved its quirky charm. It set the lighthearted tone for our long weekend.
We also filmed a short highlights video of the trip to capture as much as possible in under two minutes. It’s a fun recap of our adventures and moments that made us laugh and cry.
How We Got To Sedona
Commercial flights don’t service Sedona directly, so most visitors fly into Flagstaff or Phoenix. We flew into Phoenix because flights were more convenient and affordable. After landing and renting a car, we drove about two hours to Sedona. If you can, aim for an earlier arrival to avoid driving late at night; we didn’t arrive until after midnight because of long rental lines, which made the transfer feel long.
Wildlife In Sedona
The wildlife around the resort was one of the most delightful surprises. We saw small lizards, mule deer, and javelinas roaming the grounds. Mule deer here have a distinct look, and javelinas — which resemble wild boars — were fascinating to observe. Spotting these animals while walking the property after meals added a playful, unexpected element to our stay.
Activities We Did In Sedona
We balanced spiritual experiences with adrenaline-filled adventures. Highlights included a guided vortex tour and an off-road Pink Jeep tour of Broken Arrow, plus a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
1. Guided Vortex Tour
We booked a vortex tour a few weeks in advance. Our small group explored a range of spiritual sites, including a stupa and a medicine wheel. The guide shared local lore and natural curiosities — from uniquely twisted trees to insights about the landscape’s spiritual history. The experience was moving, and the small-group format made it personal and memorable.
Be prepared for hiking and standing during the tour — comfortable shoes are a must. We also tried a simple energy tool during the visit that produced an amusing reaction, which added to the mystique of the day.
Pink Jeep Tour of Broken Arrow
The Pink Jeep tour is pure adventure. The route climbs steep, craggy inclines and offers striking perspectives on the red rocks. If you’re uneasy with heights, there will be moments that make your stomach drop, but the thrill and views make it worthwhile. Our guide was skilled and confident, which made the ride both safe and exciting.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Built into the rock, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is architecturally striking and offers panoramic views. It’s a popular spot, so expect a busy parking area and a short climb from the lot, but the climb is worth it for the views and unique structure.
A note about weather: in early October mornings and evenings were sweater weather (around 60–65°F), while daytime heat reached the mid-80s to 90s. It’s dry heat, but intense in the sun. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and water.
Shopping in Sedona
Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
Tlaquepaque is a charming complex of shops, eateries, fountains, and mature greenery. The architecture and plantings give it an intimate, village-like feel. We found beautiful souvenirs and gifts for our families here.
One of our favorite shops stocked curiosities like fossils, shells, beads, and crystals. We picked up tiny carved crystal animals and a glass evil eye — the kind of finds that make a small shop feel like treasure-filled discovery.
Local Shops and Tarot Readings
Sedona’s main shopping areas are full of crystal shops, clothing boutiques, and unique local stores. We spent a long time exploring and eventually had tarot and charm readings at a small shop that felt like the perfect fit. The reading was a meaningful moment for both of us and left a strong impression.
What We Ate
We ate our way through Sedona and loved most everything. Highlights included a gelato stop where cherry and chocolate flavors hit the spot, and a standout dinner at the resort restaurant where a grilled peaches and burrata appetizer with honey and pistachios remains unforgettable. We also enjoyed casual local breakfasts — one popular spot boasts an extensive omelette menu — and balanced restaurant meals with grocery-store snacks and a cozy night in with cheese, crackers, and melted chocolate-covered strawberries.
While staying at Enchantment we also had the pleasure of witnessing a beautiful wedding on the grounds — a lovely reminder of how the resort’s setting lends itself to memorable celebrations.
Day Trip to Jerome, Arizona
On our way back to Phoenix we stopped in Jerome, a hillside town with ghost lore, steep historic homes, and lots of quirky shops. We browsed copper shops, kaleidoscope boutiques, and more. For lunch, we followed local advice and ate at the Haunted Hamburger — an eatery carved into the edge of a cliff with balcony seats that offer expansive views.
After Jerome we headed to the airport, full of happy memories. This girls’ weekend ranks among our favorites.
Girls Weekend in Sedona: Summary
- Stayed at Enchantment Resort
- Enjoyed meals at local favorites and the resort restaurant
- Took a guided vortex tour and a Pink Jeep off-road tour
- Visited the Chapel of the Holy Cross
- Shopped at Tlaquepaque and explored Sedona’s crystal and boutique shops
- Took a day trip to Jerome and ate at the Haunted Hamburger
Other Trips We’ve Taken
If you enjoy family-friendly travel or other road-trip ideas, we’ve written about many destinations and experiences over the years. This Sedona getaway was a perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and meaningful moments shared with a lifelong friend — highly recommended for a restorative girls’ weekend.