Before visitors settle into their vacation rentals, it helps if they know what exactly they should be looking for in this scenic city.

For starters, no trip to Sedona is complete without time spent appreciating the area’s many rock formations – each of which has its own unique name and personality. Twin spires sit atop Cathedral Rock, while Courthouse Butte looks as though the profile of a human face has been carved into it. Other sights of this nature that deserve a gander include the Bell, Steamboat and Snoopy rocks.

The Grand Canyon may be what Arizona is known for, but it is not the only canyon travelers will find in The Copper State. Anybody staying in Sedona should make a trip to Boynton Canyon, which is considered by many to be one of the area’s most beautiful attractions.

For anybody who loves outdoor activities, the scenic hiking trails that can be found within the deep and narrow box Boynton Canyon are a must.

Whether or not visitors are followers of the Catholic faith, they should consider making the trek to see The Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is one of the most stunning examples of architectural work in Sedona. This structure, which was inspired by the Empire State Building, is built into a mesa and appears as though it is rising out of the red rock formations that surround it.

While McDonald’s is not the most unique restaurant in the country, or even the world, its Sedona location stands out from all the rest. That is because this particular branch of the fast food giant is the world’s only McDonald’s to feature teal green, rather than the iconic golden, arches. City officials felt that the restaurant’s usual color scheme would clash with Sedona’s own natural palette. As a result, the brand was forced to make a compromise and go with teal green arches.

Photo Credit: Ed Siasoco on Flickr

As the trek to Grand Canyon National Park by rail will take just over two hours each way, travelers will want to devote an entire day to this experience. Grand Canyon Railway’s vintage locomotive pulls out of the station at 9:30 a.m. and takes passengers on a scenic trip through the Copper State. As sightseers relax inside the classic train, they will want to have their cameras ready to snap pictures of the ever-changing landscapes outside their window.

How passengers decide to travel is entirely up to them. Grand Canyon Railway offers coach, first and luxury parlor class seats. In addition, they can enjoy an elevated train experience from seats inside one of the train’s observation domes.

Once passengers step off the locomotive around 11:45 a.m., they will have until 3:30 p.m. to explore the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park before heading back to their vacation rentals.

Photo Credit: Kashyap_hc on Flickr

Savor Sedona’s artistic culture
Located in North Central Arizona, Sedona possesses a culture rich in art and Native American history. Famous for its artist enclaves, the city boasts several scenic small towns where creative thinkers have found inspiration in the histories of the land. Galleries, studios, festivals, concerts and film screenings entertain residents and visitors throughout the year, creating a tight-knit cultural community within the state.

If you book your next vacations at timeshare resorts in the art-filled city, you may find the excitement you’re looking for at the Sedona Arts Center, which used to be an old apple-packing barn until 1958. Events such as the Sedona Plein Air Festival and Sedona Photofest take over the barn in the months of October and June and keep community members and tourists educated in the artistic successes of neighborhood artists.

Other festivals in the city include the Sedona International Film Festival in February, the summertime’s Red Rocks Music Festival and the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks concert series in the fall.

Nighttime tours in Red Rock State Park
Under the desert stars, Arizona vacationers can journey on a guided moonlight hike in Sedona’s Red Rock State Park. The national park offers two-hour treks twice a month from April-October. Flashlights or headlamps are required for the nightly stroll, because you never know what you may encounter along the park’s 10 developed trails.

The moon’s glow will offer you just enough natural light to witness the manzanita and juniper plants growing along the trails, until you reach the rich banks of Oak Creek. You may want to have your camera ready when you arrive at the rippling stream – the hills of red rock reflecting across the moonlit creek will be a view you won’t want to forget.

Oceanside, CA: November 24,  Info call (760) 434-5255

Experience breathtaking views, as you run along the beach. Looking for a place to stay near the race? Try the Southern California Beach Club.

Sedona, AZ: November 25, Info call (928) 202-6434

View beautiful rock formations while working off those calories. Need a place to stay, try the Bell Rock Inn.

San Diego, CA:  November 24, Info call (619) 446-2100

The largest Turkey Trot  San Diego has to offer, experience the downtown area and the historic Balboa park while burning off those unwanted calories. Looking for a place to stay for the race? Try the Coronado Beach Resort

Anaheim, CA: November 24, Info call (714) 779-7803

Experience Orange County’s finest during  this Turkey Trot. The race will take runners on a adventure through the lovely city of Anaheim. Get a good rest the night before at the Lemon Tree Hotel.

San Francisco, CA: November 24, Info call (415) 595- 6934

Experience the many wounder of San Francisco as you run through the various districts. Need a place to stay for the race? Try the Wyndham Canterbury at San Francisco

Check out some of the other  Thanksgiving Deals

In this gorgeous Arizona locale, there are many different options for Sedona lodging. The Bell Rock Inn is one great place to stay, especially for individuals who are traveling with a large group of friends or family. At these accommodations, there are poolside barbecue areas that overlook beautiful red rock formations. Visitors may wish to plan a get-together at one of these sites, as it is the perfect setting for a fun afternoon cookout. Additionally, The Bell Rock Inn is located close to the Coconino National Forest, where adventurers can embark on exciting Sedona hiking expeditions.

There are also many spas in Sedona, such as the Los Abrigados Resort and Spa. This hotel is located right on the edge of Oak Creek, a beautiful and well-known body of water that many visitors enjoy walking along to take in the scenery. The accommodations at this resort are comfortable and upscale, and provide a very tranquil and peaceful atmosphere in which individuals can relax. There are many spa treatments that one can undergo while staying at this hotel, such as manicures, pedicures, body wraps, massages and sea salt scrubs.

Other resorts in Sedona that individuals may wish to consider staying in include The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort and the Sedona Summit Resort. The latter, in particular, is a great place for families, because it offers many activities that both children and adults that are young at heart are sure to enjoy. Some of the fun options that guests can chose include barbecuing at a beach side pit, swimming in one of the many heated pools, picnicking at Slide Rock State Park or taking a wild ride down one of the hotels waterslides. As for The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort, guests who wish to play a few holes on a perfectly manicured green are guaranteed to find exactly what they are looking for at this hotel.

While staying in Sedona, individuals should explore some of the area’s other attractions, such as the Oakcreek Country Club, Red Rocks and Sycamore Canyon, and the Pink Jeep Tours company.

Most folks who are well traveled at some point decide that there is more to traveling than seeing mankind’s greatest achievements in architecture, art, ancient cities, and tourist stops. It is a point that comes at different times for different people. Still, before you can really say you are “well traveled” you have to at least visit some of America’s greatest national parks and national monuments. You must to see and feel the great beauty which we have preserved for ourselves in this great nation.

You need to see the glaciers, the mountains, the volcanoes, the lakes, and wildlife. So, you need to make a list and check it more than a few times to choose which of the top 10 national parks and monuments you wish to see first. For me, I like to stay in nice resort locations adjacent nature’s majestic beauty, perhaps in the backdrop as I wind down my day. A place with a view, that’s what I love, and I think you will too.

Now then, let me give you four very excellent National Park Vacation Rental destination locations to think on. Let’s face it, it’s hard to decide on your own, especially if you haven’t ever been there before, and you don’t know whom to trust to guide you through such a decision.

Rocky Mountain National Parks, CO – Historic Crags Lodge – Golden Eagle Resort
Hawaii National Park, Kailua-Kona, HI on the Big Island – Sea Village Resort
Sunset Crater National Monument, Sedona AZ – Premiere Vacation Club at Bell Rock
Pecos National Monument and Santa Fe national Forest, NM – Villas de Santa Fe

The Rocky Mountains are spectacular and you’ll be blown away by the vistas and views. It’s scenic on the drive up the mountain, or if you fly most of the way, it’s amazing from the air. Why not park your hat at Historic Crags Lodge – Golden Eagle Resort to see what I mean?

On the Big Island of Hawaii, well that is where all the action is as Pele, Goddess of Fire shows you Mother Nature’s energy and heat up close and personal. Take the volcano tour and see for yourself. Hawaii National Park is also quite incredible to view. You can find winning accommodations at Sea Village Resort.

Have you ever seen the red rocks and red mountains of Arizona, why not take a Pink Jeep tour and see what everyone is talking about in Sedona, while you stay at the Premier Vacation Club at Bell Rock? Perhaps, you’d like to also see another wonderful National Forest in New Mexico and stay at the Villas de Santa Fe. Why not book your National Park Vacation Rental today. See what you’ve been missing, while earning your title of; well traveled.

1. Napa Valley, California: You can’t get more romantic than the old world Tuscan charm surrounded by vine-covered hills this Valentine’s Day.
   • Where to Stay: Vino Bello Resort
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico: With snow on the mountains and the vibrant American Indian arts and culture surrounding you, Santa Fe is a perfect getaway to romance your special someone.
   • Where to Stay: Villas de Santa Fe
3. Lake Tahoe, California: If you love to ski/snowboard, you have probably heard of Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe. This world renowned resort is perfect to get away and be one with mother nature. Bundle up by the fire, enjoy an indoor jacuzzi, and take in the amazing scenery.
   • Where to Stay: Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley
4. Las Vegas, Nevada: Sin City isn’t just for bachelor(ette) parties. Vegas offers everything a romantic couple can possibly hope for. Pamper yourselves at some of the world’s best restaurants, spas, pools, and theatre, and outdoor adventure.
   • Where to Stay: Polo Towers (on the strip)
5. Palm Springs, California: Golf, hiking, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, tennis are just a few of the fun activities you can do in Palm Springs this Valentine’s day. Not to mention the numerous festivals, music scene, relaxing spas and resorts, and spectacular snow capped mountain views.
   • Where to Stay: Palm Springs Tennis Club
6. Sedona, Arizona: If perfect weather combined with a relaxing luxury vacation is what you are looking for, head to Sedona. Head to the golf courses or luxury spas and indulge in the local shops and art galleries. But don’t forget about the Red Rock surroundings, the perfect color to match your Valentine’s Day getaway this year.
   • Where to Stay: Los Abrigados Resort & Spa

1. Los Abrigados Resort and Spa: A cozy getaway nestled against the banks of famou Oak Creek in Sedona, AZ. The resort rests on twenty-two acres of winding walkways, cascading fountains and shady nooks, while evoking a feeling of total privacy. Los Abrigados is home to the famous “Red Rock Fantasy” christmas light event.
   

   Los Abrigados Resort, Sedona

2. Premiere Vacation Club at Bell Rock: Framed by the extraordinary landscape used as the backdrop for many classic western films. These timeshare rentals and vacation condos offer the perfect combination of first class hospitality and recreation.
   

   Premiere Vacation Club at Bell Rock, Sedona

3. Sedona Summit Resort: Fabulous amenities, personalized service, and designer interiors make Sedona Summit the perfect place to stay for a luxury vacation.
   

   Sedona Summit Resort, Arizona

4. The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort: Spend just one day here and you’ll understand why so many love this desert paradise. Go for an early morning round on the greens to start your perfect day taking in Sedona scenery.
   

   Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort, Sedona, Arizona

View Where to Stay in Sedona in a larger map

Red Rock Fantasy XIX 2009

Sedona, Arizona: Celebrate with hundreds of locals and visitors at the annual Red Rock Fantasy in Sedona. Nestled within the world-renowned red rocks surrounding the beautiful area, Red Rock Fantasy is an exciting festival of more than a million lights highlighting the scenic sights of Sedona. In its nineteenth year and boasting nearly two dozen light displays created by the families from the Southwest, guests will experience never-before-seen marvels of light that will leave children and adults alike in amazement.

Red Rock Fantasy XIX Sedona, AZ

LOCATION:

Los Abrigados Resort & Spa
160 North Portal Lane
Sedona, AZ 86336

Red Rock Fantasy Lights Sedona

WHEN:

“Lights On” for the 19^th annual Red Rock Fantasy will take place 5:00 PM on Thursday, November 19, 2009 lasting through the New Year, ending with “Lights Out” on Saturday, January 2, 2010. The festival is open each evening from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday.

Red Rock Fantasy Los Abrigados

ADMISSION:

Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for children aged 5-12 and is FREE for children 4 and under. Blocks of 20 tickets or more are sold at a discounted rate of $4 per person. Parking is limited at the resort. For more information, call 928-282-1777 or toll free 800-521-3131. http://www.redrockfantasy.com/