The stretch of highway between Phoenix and Sedona might look like just another desert drive on the map, but savvy road trippers know this 100 mile journey holds some of Arizona’s best kept secrets. Instead of rushing straight to Sedona’s famous red rocks, why not turn this into an adventure? This carefully curated route transforms what could be a mundane two-hour drive into a full day of discovery, taking you through quirky art galleries, ancient cliff dwellings, award-winning wineries, and finally to one of the Southwest’s most photographed swimming holes.
The Artist Den – Black Canyon City, AZ
When you’re cruising north from Phoenix, don’t let Black Canyon City fool you into thinking it’s just another highway town. Tucked away The Artist Den serves up exactly the kind of authentic Old West charm that makes road trips memorable. This isn’t your typical tourist trap gallery, it’s a working studio where local artists pour their hearts into everything from striking paintings and hand crafted sculptures to intricate jewelry and pottery. The moment you step inside, you’ll feel the creative energy that makes this place special and the very fair pricing means you won’t have to choose between supporting local artists and staying within your road trip budget.
What really sets The Artist Den apart is the incredible selection of crystals and fossils that’ll have rock hounds and curious travelers alike completely mesmerized. The staff here aren’t just friendly faces behind a counter. They’re genuinely knowledgeable enthusiasts who can tell you the story behind each piece and help you find exactly what speaks to you. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift or treating yourself to something unique, this spot delivers with excellent customer service that makes browsing a pleasure rather than a chore. Plus, it’s completely family friendly, with bike parking available so you can easily make this a comfortable stop for everyone in your crew.
El Gordo Mexican Grill – Cordes Lakes, AZ
As you wind through Arizona’s high desert toward Sedona, your stomach will thank you for planning a stop at El Gordo Mexican Grill. Located in nearby Mayer, this family-owned gem has mastered the art of authentic Mexican cuisine that’ll fuel you for the adventures ahead. The star of the show here is definitely their quesabirria tacos. These beauties come with rich, flavorful broth for dipping that’ll have you questioning every other taco you’ve ever eaten. Don’t sleep on their breakfast burritos either, especially if you’re an early riser trying to beat the desert heat.
The beauty of El Gordo lies in its commitment to homemade flavors and generous portions that won’t leave you hungry an hour down the road. Their menu reads like a love letter to Mexican street food, with everything from carne asada fries to traditional huevos rancheros. Open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM, they’ve got you covered whether you’re starting your journey at dawn or need a satisfying dinner.
Montezuma Castle National Monument – Camp Verde, AZ
Prepare to have your mind blown by one of Arizona’s most perfectly preserved pieces of ancient history. Just a quick 5 minute detour off I-17, Montezuma Castle National Monument showcases a breathtaking 5 story cliff dwelling that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about ancient architecture. Built during the early 1100’s by the Hohokam and later inhabited by the Sinagua people until around 1425 AD, this 20 room masterpiece represents an incredible cultural shift from nomadic life to permanent settlement. The strategic location, supported by constant water from Montezuma Well and sophisticated irrigation systems, demonstrates the ingenuity of these ancient peoples in ways that textbooks simply can’t capture.
The 1/3 mile paved loop trail is perfectly designed to give you the full experience without wearing you out. It’s completely wheelchair and stroller accessible, making this stop inclusive for every member of your travel party. While you can’t actually climb inside the castle (past visitors unfortunately caused some damage), the trail offers spectacular viewing angles that help you appreciate the dwelling’s impressive height advantage and defensive positioning. At $15 per vehicle, your entry fee also covers Tuzigoot National Monument, making this an incredible value for history buffs. Pro tip: visit during spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures, and don’t forget to bring a water bottle. There’s a public fountain for refills, but Arizona’s dry air will have you drinking more than usual.
Southwest Wine Center – Clarkdale, AZ
Hidden in the charming historic town of Clarkdale, the Southwest Wine Center offers something you won’t find anywhere else in Arizona, the only college level viticulture and enology program in the state. What makes this stop extraordinary is that you’re not just tasting wines, you’re experiencing the passion and skill of Yavapai College students who are crafting award-winning vintages in the high desert. The state of the art facility provides an immersive learning environment where students master both grape growing and winemaking. The results speak for themselves in every glass. This isn’t just a winery, it’s where the next generation of Arizona winemakers is perfecting their craft.
The tasting room welcomes visitors Thursday through Sunday from 12 PM to 6 PM, but here’s an insider tip: make a reservation for their wine tasting flights to get the full experience. These hour long sessions accommodate up to six guests and are staffed by knowledgeable students and alumni who can give you fascinating insights into the winemaking process. Even if you can’t snag a flight reservation, walk-ins are welcome for glass and bottle purchases on the beautiful outdoor patio. Tours are sometimes available when time permits, so don’t be shy about asking.
Red Rock Crossing – Sedona, AZ
Welcome to what might be the most photographed spot in the entire Southwest. Red Rock Crossing sits like a jewel below the iconic Cathedral Rock, offering you a front-row seat. This historic landmark was once a working ranch, but now it serves as Sedona’s premier swimming hole, where Oak Creek’s gentle waters reflect the towering red rocks in ways that’ll leave you speechless. The combination of lush green meadows, towering sycamores and those famous crimson cliffs creates a visual feast that changes throughout the day, but the magic really happens at sunset when Cathedral Rock glows like it’s been lit from within.
What makes Red Rock Crossing truly special beyond its stunning beauty is its reputation as one of Sedona’s famous vortexes, those swirling centers of earth energy that many visitors find conducive to healing, meditation and self-discovery. Whether you’re a believer in mystical energy or just love incredible scenery, you’ll find yourself feeling recharged after spending time here. The site offers over 1.5 miles of paved walking paths, making it accessible for visitors with mobility challenges, while the relatively flat trails to the crossing take just 10-15 minutes each way. Just remember to budget for parking. You’ll need either a Red Rock Pass ($5) at Baldwin Trailhead or $11 cash at Crescent Moon Picnic Site. And yes, they really do mean cash only at Crescent Moon, so come prepared.
Make This Journey Your Own
The beauty of this Phoenix to Sedona adventure lies in its flexibility. You can cruise through all five stops in a leisurely day or stretch it into a weekend getaway by camping under Sedona’s star filled skies. Each destination offers its own rhythm and rewards, so don’t feel pressured to rush through just to check boxes. Remember to pack plenty of water, keep your gas tank topped off and always have cash on hand for those surprise stops that don’t take cards. Your phone might lose signal in some stretches, which is honestly part of the magic. Embrace those moments of disconnection and let the landscape work its ancient spell on you.
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