Author Archive: for LisaPeters

Fun things to do in Sedona, Arizona this Weekend

Sedona, Arizona
Weekend Happenings

02/03/12 – 02/05/12

 

Arts ~ Sedona Marathon ~ Studio Live ~ History

What a great weekend to visit Sedona! This weekend promises to have something for everyone visiting red rock country. For the art lover we have 1st Friday Evening in the Galleries and the Jerome Art Walk, for athletes we have the Sedona Marathon, for Music lovers we have singer/songwriter Peter Mayer playing at Studio Live Sedona and for the history buff we have “Arizona History and Hi-Jinx” at the Sedona Heritage Museum. There is no end to the fun to be found in Sedona this weekend, enhance your visit with a Sedona horseback ride, Sedona hiking adventure, Sedona ATV guided tour or a ride aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad. Just click on the links below and you will be on your way to a great weekend in Sedona, Arizona! Make sure to visit us on Facebook and twitter!

Featured Sedona-Verde Valley Events

Sedona Marathon
Marathon in the Red Rocks
February 4th, 2012
The Sedona Chamber of Commerce, along with the entire Sedona area, will welcome thousands of runners, their families and friends for a weekend of fierce competition and neighborly camaraderie in the world famous resort destination of Sedona, Arizona. More than 2,500 runners will participate in 5K, 10K, Half or Full Marathon races which will take the runners through the scenic Coconino National Forest District, known for its magical red rock formations, and onto the streets of what Good Morning America has chosen as one of the Top 10 most beautiful cities in the United States. For more information  please visit the Sedona Marathon. Join Tlaquepaque for the Sedona Marathon Post-Race Awards Ceremony. The celebration starts at 3:00 pm with awards starting at 4:00 pm!

 

• • • • •

1st Friday Evening in the Galleries- Meet Local Artists & Tour the Galleries
02/03/12  (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Cost: Free

On the first Friday of each month, members of the Sedona Gallery Association offer a unique monthly showcase highlighting artists, special exhibits, and art events. These special art receptions give locals and Sedona visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy light refreshments while beginning their weekends with an exploration of Sedona’s exciting art scene. For your convenience, the Sedona Trolley provides free transportation to venture from art gallery to art gallery. For more information on the galleries participating and their exhibits please visit Sedona Gallery Association.

• • • • •

Jerome Art Walk – Arizona’s Art Destination
02/04/12  (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
)
Jerome continues its love affair with ART on February 4th with the First Saturday ART WALK. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the 26 galleries and studios of Jerome will be brimming over with visual delights. There will be plenty of chocolate, music and good conversation at this vibrant event. Meet the artists that night and mingle with other art lovers who are drawn to this charming mountain town.This free event has become a Verde Valley favorite with a shuttle that will transport you from the artist filled Old Jerome High School, up to the center of town with The Lincoln Gallery and Made in Jerome Pottery and everything in-between. For more information please visit the Jerome Art Walk.

• • • • •

Studio Live Sedona – Singer/songwriter Peter Mayer
02/02/12 ( 7:30 pm)
Tickets Tickets: $22/day of show and $20/advance
Join Studio Live Sedona in welcoming singer/songwriter Peter Mayer. Peter Mayer writes songs for a small planet—songs about interconnectedness and the human journey; about the beauty and the mystery of the world. Whimsical, humorous, and profound, his music breaks the boundaries of “folk”, and transcends to a realm beyond the everyday love song, to a place of wonder at the very fact of life itself. For more information please visit Studio Live Sedona.

• • • • •

Sedona Heritage Museum – “Arizona History and Hi-Jinx”
02/04/12 (1:30 pm)
Cost: $6

Join the Sedona Heritage Museum in welcoming local actor Michael Peach presenting “Arizona History and Hi-Jinx”. Local actor Michael Peach weaves humor, song, cowboy poetry, and historical narrative into an informative and entertaining experience. In his 1-hour show, he brings to life Arizona and Sedona history and relays tales of our interesting road to statehood. All based on true events and a family friendly show. For more information visit Sedona Heritage Museum.

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Sedona’s Featured Metaphysical & Spiritual

Sedona Metaphysical and Spiritual Association
Your Trusted Source for Personal Enrichment Vortexes, Psychics, Spirituality and Healing

Sedona is a place of wisdom, enlightenment, beauty and transformative opportunities where retreats, metaphysical book stores and classes provide abundant spiritual learning experiences.Book your personalized spiritual, metaphysical, and healing experiences with members of the Sedona Metaphysical Spiritual Association,an Affinity Group of The Sedona Chamber of Commerce, all of whom abide by a pledge of professional integrity.

Members of the Sedona Metaphysical and Spiritual Association, take great pleasure in guiding you as a Sedona visitor along the path of your choice of individualized growth and assure you of the best possible experience while you are here in Sedona. For more information please visit the Sedona Metaphysical and Spiritual Association’ website or visit the SMSA Center inside Gloden Books & Music at 1575 West State Route 89A.

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Featured Sedona-Verde Valley Tours

Verde Canyon Railroad
“Eagle Watch”
Verde Canyon Railroad’s Eagle Watch is more than just an excursion train. It’s more than an expedition filled with scenic wonders, more than a stress-free escape. It’s a journey to the very heart of America. Each winter migrating bald and golden eagles join resident pairs in this ancient sanctuary. Verde Canyon is a protected breeding area closed to the public. Only the Verde Canyon Railroad provides this exclusive opportunity to view these extraordinary raptors in their natural habitat. For more information please visit the Verde Canyon Railroad.

• • • • •

Sedona Adventure Tours
“Unforgettable Outdoor Fun & Family Friendly Adventure”

Sedona Adventure Tours and Verde River Rafting provides unforgettable outdoor fun and family friendly adventure in the breathtaking scenery of Sedona Arizona and the Verde Valley. They provide unforgettable family fun with adventures by raft, inflatable kayak, hikes, wine & micro brew tastings, horseback rides, scenic tours, tubing madness all at the edge of the Sonoran Desert! Make sure to check out their Rock Hop and Swirl Tour!

• • • • •

Arizona ATV Adventures
“Thrilling Family Fun”

Take your family on an expertly guided 30 mile ATV tour in the outback of the West Sedona Valley where over 40 movies have been filmed. Arizona ATV Adventures has over a hundred miles of trails to choose from, which allows their guides to customize each tour based on the age, interests and skill levels of the group. Book an ATV tour now!

 

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Featured Sedona Attractions

Out of Africa Wildlife Park
“Your best Wild Life Adventure”
Get up close and personal to wild life in their natural habitat at Out of Africa Wildlife Park! The Park offers fun, exciting and educational attractions such as Wildlife Preserve, Tiger Splash, African Bush Safari and Predator Feed. Where else can kiss a giraffe, feed a Tiger, or watch people and tigers play together in a giant swimming pool? A favorite place for Sedona visitors! Receive a 1/2 off General admission internet coupon by clicking here!


• • • • •

Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
“The Art and Soul of Sedona”
When it comes to exploring the world of art in Sedona, the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is the place to be. Tlaquepaque is a perfect setting to witness gifted artisans absorbed in their work. With over 40 specialty shops and exclusive art galleries, your journey into the arts of Sedona becomes a joyful revelation of fabulous art treasures and distinctive gifts around every corner. For more information visit Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.

• • • • •

M Diamond Ranch
“It’s so much more than just a trail ride”

Take in the majestic scenery of Sedona and learn about real western history and heritage from the back of a horse with the M Diamond Ranch. At the M Diamond Ranch you can choose from a one-hour trail ride guided by a friendly, knowledgeable M Diamond Ranch cowboy wrangler, or a full morning or evening experience that combines a horseback ride with a Cowboy Cookout! Make sure to check out the “Saddle & Swirl” Sedona vacation package.

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Featured Sedona Lodging

Best Western Inn of Sedona “Unbeatable Views of Sedona’s Red Rocks”

Beckoned by the mystique of Sedona, Arizona, the Best Western Inn of Sedona will surround you with breathtaking beauty and the natural majesty of Sedona’s Red Rocks, showcased from one of their four terraced promenade decks that cascade from our hilltop location into the splendor of Sedona. For more details please visit the Best Western Inn of Sedona.

The Best Western Inn of Sedona offers a wide variety of money saving, fun-filled Sedona vacation packages !

• • • • •

Wildflower Inn
“Your Home Away from Home”
Wildflower Inn offers quaint, peaceful accommodations at extremely reasonable rates making it easy to say yes to the concept of taking a moment to enjoy the natural beauty of the Red Rocks like Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte right outside every room at this Sedona hotel! Check out their Sedona hotel specials!

• • • • •

Kokopelli Suites
“Voted Best of Sedona 3 years in a row”
Kokopelli Suites, winner of Best of Sedona hotels three years in a row, offers a variety of rooms and suites at affordable prices. Check out their great Sedona hotel deals & discounts!

• • • • •

Casa Sedona Bed & Breakfast Inn
“An Invitation to Indulge”
Casa Sedona is a nationally recognized Bed & Breakfast Inn nestled on an acre of natural and manicured gardens where beauty and serenity abound. Reserve one of their exceptional Sedona vacation packages!

Make sure to check our Sedona Deals page for current vacation packages, discounted Sedona tours and much more. Check this website every Friday morning for an updated “Things to Do in Sedona this Weekend” story!

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Arizona’s Original Ribs Cook-off and Concert

Romantic comedy ‘Take Me Home’ Debuts in Northern Arizona

Sedona International Film Festival’s
Romantic Comedy “Take Me Home”

Don’t miss the Northern Arizona premiere of the delightful romantic comedy ‘Take Me Home‘ presented by the Sedona International Film Festival, with screenings in Sedona, Arizona on February 7th and in Flagstaff on the 8th. Sounds like a perfect Valentine’s date night to me!

We thought it would be the perfect lighthearted, enjoyable and refreshing film to bring in just before Valentine’s Day to celebrate the romantic in all of us. “It has a great cast of characters — played by an extraordinary ensemble cast — a surprising script and a whole lot of heart. – Patrick Schweiss, Film Festival Director

Take Me Home

Thom Colvin isn’t having a good day. After getting turned down by a photography agency, Thom finds his landlord throwing all of his belongings out into the hallway. With no job prospects and no place to sleep, Thom must turn to his recurring last resort: driving his illegal taxicab around the streets of New York. Fortunately for him, Claire Barrow isn’t having a good day either. First she comes home to find her husband flirting with his new secretary, then discovers her estranged father has suffered a heart attack in California. In a frenzy, Claire runs out into the night and hails what she assumes to be a cab. What she gets instead …Read More

Shot on location in thirteen different states, “Take Me Home” features an award-winning ensemble cast including Victor Garber (Titanic, Alias), Cristine Rose (Heroes), Lin Shaye (There’s Something About Mary), Bree Turner (The Ugly Truth), Brennan Elliot (Flight 93), and Amber Jaeger (Solitary).

 Writer/director and the star of the film Sam Jaeger, (best known for his roles in Parenthood and the film Catch & Release), and an eleven person crew set out in an RV from New York City to capture this magical comedy against the backdrop of the American landscape.

Take Me Home” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, February 7th at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm and at Harkins Flagstaff 11 Theatres on Wednesday, February 8th at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members ($6 for full-time students), and will be available starting one hour before showtime in the Harkins’ lobbies on the days of the  show. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 West Highway 89A, Suite A3. For more information please visit the Sedona International Film Festival.

Purchased your passes to the Sedona International Film Festival

Sedona International Film Festival
One full week and more than 145 films!
February 18th – 26th, 2012

From features to shorts, documentaries to animation and foreign films to student films, you will be treated to a cinephile’s dream! Join filmmakers, celebrities, industry guests and film buffs from all around the world as Sedona takes center stage with its biggest celebration of film yet! Passes for the 2011 Festival available here! For more information on this Sedona event or to purchase passes please visit the Sedona International Film Festival.

 

 

Visit Out of Africa Wildlife Park during your Sedona Vacation

Sedona Vacations
Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Located in Camp Verde, Out of Africa Wildlife Park , one of the most popular attractions in Northern Arizona, is only 30 minutes from Sedona and should definitely be a part of your Sedona, Arizona vacation. This 104 acre wildlife park offers you and your family the opportunity to get up close to wild life in their natural habitat.

With educational and exciting attractions like Wildlife Preserve,Tiger Splash, African Bush Safari and Predator Feed, your kids will learn more about wildlife while still having fun!  Below you will find some of our favorite attractions at the park, and all of them are covered with general admission to the park.

Some of our favorite attraction at Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Wildlife Preserve
You can take your family on a narrated tram or trolley tour of the Wildlife Preserve or if you prefer take a leisurely walk among the Preserve’s predator habitats. Whichever way you choose you are going to want to take you camera! There are plenty of photo opportunities of lions, tigers, wolves, hyena, and other predators that roam in large, natural habitats.

Tiger Splash
At Tiger Splash(my personal favorite) Bengals, Siberian tigers and other big cats interact in a predator/prey relationship as they play with their caretakers and various colorful toys,romping and splashing in a 35-foot by 50-foot pool. Watching those huge cats jump in the air and leap into the pool is absoulutely breathtaking.This unique, thrilling, and exciting show is also very educational. Through the live narration, you’ll discover how instincts, intellect and feelings interact to form spontaneous, natural behavior.

African Bush Safari
You will experience the heart of Africa in the heart of Arizona with this African Bush Safari! This is an authentic African photo safari with expert park guides narrating throughout your tour. While riding in a safari vehicle, you can expect a personal encounter with giraffe, zebra, ostrich and more.They even provide treats so that you can feed the animals.This is where the gentle kiss from a giraffe awaits you!

Predator Feed
You also have the opportunity to see how large animals, such as lions and tigers eat. Follow the animal caretakers on a Predator Feed as they throw 800 pounds of raw food to eagerly waiting carnivores! I realize this attraction may not be for everyone, however there is something to be said for seeing the prideful walk of a Lion with his prey.

What are you waiting for, where else would you be able to kiss a giraffe, feed a Tiger, or watch people and tigers play together in a giant swimming pool? Buy your tickets today!

 

 

February Events at the Verde Canyon Railroad

Verde Canyon Railroad
February Celebrations

If you are going to be visiting the Sedona-Verde Valley in the month of February there are two can’t miss events taking place at the Verde Canyon Railroad. The Centennial Celebration taking place the second weekend of February followed by the start of the  Chocolate Lovers Train on the 14th! See below for more details.

 

Verde Canyon Railroad
Centennial Celebration
February 11th – 12th, 2012

Join the Railroad in celebrating the birth of their rail line 100 years ago. On Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12, Verde Canyon Railroad will share the Centennial spotlight with the State of Arizona and Town of Clarkdale. Their Centennial Celebration, from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, is free to the public. Verde Canyon Railroad’s knowledgeable staff will take visitors on a complimentary 20-minute tour of their vintage engines, only two of 10 remaining in North America; through the mid-last century passenger cars which once linked America coast to coast, and on a tour of the John Bell Museum which highlights the Railroad’s storied past. New to the depot is the special event’s tent, where free exhibitions celebrating the Verde Valley will be on display. Agriculture, history, wildlife conservation and Native American cultures will be represented. Area attractions also will showcase their properties. Artisans and entertainers will round out the morning venue, along with breakfast and lunch options accompanied by the Railroad’s specialty drinksThe Centennial train departs at a special time of 2:00 pm. on February 11th and 12th, and requires a ticket purchase. For more information please visit the Verde Canyon Railroad.

 

Verde Canyon Railroad
Chocolate Lovers Train
February 14th – 19th, 2012

Revel in the breath-snatching sights of the Verde Canyon while savoring flavored coffee, specialty cocktails and a buffet of sumptuous chocolate goodies including a fountain. Enjoy the luxury of first-class accommodations and access to open air gondolas with friends, family or your one and only Valentine. The Verde Canyon Railroad’s Chocolate Lovers’ Train runs February 14th through the 19th, 2012  departing at 1:00 pm and returning at 5:00 pm. This very special train is a favorite attraction of locals and visitors of the Sedona-Verde Valley, so don’t delay, get your tickets for the Chocolate Lovers’ Train today! For more information please visit the Verde Canyon Railroad.

The Verde Canyon Railroad is located in Clarkdale, Arizona, a short distance from Sedona and only two hours from Phoenix making the Verde Canyon Railroad a perfect Arizona day-trip!

Sedon Film Festival Presents Brubeck Brothers Quartet

Sedona International Film Festival
World-Renowned, Internationally-Acclaimed Brubeck Brothers Quartet

Just when you think the Sedona International Film Festival can’t get any better they bust out with Wednesday “Jazz Stretch” a cool new event! On Wednesday February 22nd, 2012 at the Sedona Performing Arts Center, the Sedona Film Festival will present the world-renowned, internationally-acclaimed Brubeck Brothers Quartet.

The Brubeck Brothers Quartet is an exciting jazz group featuring two members of one of America’s most accomplished musical families, Daniel Brubeck (drums,) and Chris Brubeck (bass & trombone.) Guitarist Mike DeMicco, and pianist Chuck Lamb, complete this dynamic quartet. They have performed at concert series, colleges, and jazz festivals across North America and Europe including the Newport, Detroit, Ravinia, Las Vegas, Sedona, Spokane & Monterey Jazz Festivals.

These versatile musicians also collaborate with orchestras, and in 2006 ignited the Salt Lake City Jazz Festival by playing with the Utah Symphony conducted by Keith Lockhart. With Chris Brubeck’s compositions as a vehicle, the BBQ has joined with chamber groups to collaborate with musicians from the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Russian National Symphony Orchestra. The group’s creativity, technique and improvisation can be heard in their uncompromising music, which reflects their dedication to melody, rhythm, culture and the spontaneous spirit of jazz…Read More

Tickets for the Brubeck Brothers Quartet are only $12 each (or you may use your festival pass or ticket package to reserve your ticket). What, you don’t have your passes or tickets for Sedona International Film Festival yet! Don’t delay, the film festival is the hottest event in Sedona, purchase you tickets today by clicking here!

 Information provided by the Sedona International Film Festival

Interested in taking some tours of Sedona while you are in town for the festival, here are a few of our top picks.

Sedona Adventure Tours
“Rock Hop & Swirl”
M Diamond Ranch
“Ranch Rendezvous”
 Sedona Psychic Wisdom
Sedona Vortex Tours”
 Arizona ATV Adventures
“West Sedona Canyon Tour”

Enjoy Eco-Friendly Activities in Sedona this Weekend

Sedona, Arizona
Eco-Friendly Fun

 

Birding ~ Horseback Riding ~ History ~ Verde River

Visit Sedona, Arizona this weekend and enjoy some eco-friendly activities, learn some history and explore the beauty of the Verde River Valley and Sedona area. Below you will find some hiking suggestions, info on the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area, where to go on a guided Sedona horseback ride and some educational and fun historical sites in the area. Just click on the activities below that interest you and you will be off to a great weekend in Sedona. Make sure to visit us on Facebook and Twitter! If you are looking for weekend events in Sedona please visit our Sedona Events Page. Make sure to check our new page Ecotourism in the Verde River Valley and Sedona.

Hiking/Birding

Red Rock State Park
Nature Walk (10:00 am)
Daily
Visit Red Rock State Park andy day of the week and take a guided Nature Walk. This scenic walk lasts one and a half to two hours, an will introduce you to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek and other aspects of the Park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history, and archeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.Park Entrance Fees: Per Vehicle (1-4 Adults): $10.00 Individual/Bicycle: $3.00. For more information on this Sedona hike please visit Red Rock State Park.

• • • • •

Red Rock State Park
Bird Walk (9:00 am)
1/25/12 
Meet up with other bird lovers at the visitors center and enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of the most popular parks in Northern Arizona . Bird enthusiasts can join a naturalist for a “Guided Bird Walk”. Beginning as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend that visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the Park. To contact the park about schedules, or reservations for some of their most popular hikes, call 928.282.6907 or visit Red Rock State Park.

If you would like to find some more hikes for this weekend please visit Hiking in the Verde River Valley & Sedona.

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Guided Horseback Rides

M Diamond Ranch
“It’s so much more than just a trail ride”
The M Diamond Ranch is a 100 year-old family owned cattle ranch that provides the only horse back rides permitted by the Coconino National Forest in the Red Rock Ranger District of Sedona. You can choose from a one-hour trail ride guided by a friendly, knowledgeable M Diamond Ranch cowboy wrangler, or a full morning or evening experience that combines a horseback ride with a Cowboy Cookout, complete with kids’ activities and entertainment. A portion of your “tour” fee is paid to the USFS for preservation, administration and public education.The ranch values their cowboy heritage and are commitment to wildlife habitat preservation. For more information on this guided Sedona horseback ride please visit the M Diamond Ranch.

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Verde River

Verde River Greenway and State Natural Area
2011-B Kestrel Road, Cottonwood, AZ 86326

The Greenway encompasses nearly 480 acres and is six miles long. The 3,300 foot elevation means mild temperatures for hiking along the Verde, canoeing, picnicking, fishing, or just wading in the cool water. Life along the river changes with the season, giving visitors a glimpse of great blue heron, black hawks, coyotes, raccoons, mule deer, beavers, ducks, frogs, and toads. The Verde River and surrounding riparian corridor support nearly twenty threatened or endangered species including river otter, southwestern bald eagles, southwestern willow flycatchers, and lowland leopard frogs. The Verde River Greenway State Natural Area is located next to Dead Horse Ranch State Park at 2011-B Kestrel Road in Cottonwood. For more information please visit Verde River Greenway and State Natural Area.

 

• • • • •

Back to top of page

• • • • •

Make sure to check our Sedona Deals page for for current Sedona Vacation Packages, discounted Sedona Tours and much more.

Singer/Songwriter Peter Mayer at Studio Live Sedona

Studio Live Sedona
Singer/Songwriter Peter Mayer
Whimsical, Humorous, and Profound!

Visit Sedona, Arizona on February the 4th, 2012 and join Studio Live Sedona in welcoming singer/songwriter Peter Mayer! Peter Mayer writes songs for a small planet—songs about interconnectedness and the human journey; about the beauty and the mystery of the world. Whimsical, humorous, and profound, his music breaks the boundaries of “folk”, and transcends to a realm beyond the everyday love song, to a place of wonder at the very fact of life itself.  

Peter began playing the guitar and writing songs when he was in high school. He studied Theology and music in college, and then spent two years in seminary. After deciding that the priesthood wasn’t for him, he took a part-time job as a church music director for 8 years, while performing at clubs and colleges, and writing and recording his music…Read More

Tickets for this show are $22/day of show and $20/advance. Studio Live Sedona is located at 215 Coffeepot Drive in West Sedona,to purchase tickets for this Sedona event or for more information please visit Studio Live Sedona.

Studio Live is a place for performers to perform, reach out, learn, share, rehearse and teach. It is also a place where the performer touches YOU, the community. A place where Performance makes a difference to us all. Where the connection is made.

*****************

Check out these Sedona Hotels and Inn for your Sedona Vacation

Kokopelli Suites
“Voted Best of Sedona 3 years in a row”
M Diamond Ranch’s “Little Gem Guest House”
“A Private Ranch Experience for your Family or Group”
Casa Sedona Bed & Breakfast Inn
“An Invitation to Indulge”
 Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona
“Unbeatable Views of Sedona’s Red Rocks”