Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is America’s most resplendent townsite. Sedona's downtown is surrounded by luxuriant pine and juniper forests deep in a gigantic natural amphitheater. Multicolored sandstone cliffs, spires, and monuments rise thousands of feet on all sides. Although Sedona was founded in 1902, it remained a tiny village serving isolated ranches and western movie crews until the 1950s.

Sedona is now fully evolved as a destination resort and art colony. Architectural tributes to the inspiring setting abound, in galleries, studios and shops with Southwestern arts and crafts, gourmet restaurants and romantic lodgings. A remarkable church and a beguiling specialty shopping complex are among the nation’s best marriages of culture and nature. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy mild weather year-round for jeep touring, hiking, fishing, and exploring the red-rock wonderland around Oak Creek Canyon. Artists and nature-lovers have recently been joined by metaphysical adherents here to pick up the spiritual energy created by local vortexes.

Here are a few of our favorites among Sedona's outstanding attractions, restaurants and lodgings: