Welcome to Explore Local Together Episode 3! We share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. This week, we’re talking about road trips, Route 66 and Sedona, AZ, and of course the Solar Eclipse – including an interview with the Science Museum of Minnesota! We’ve spent a lot of time on the road, especially in the Southwest, so we’re sharing tips, favorite hikes, restaurants, and lodging. *this post is from 2024 but still offers a lot of value
We mentioned a few tips on the podcast including ROADTRIPPERS to plan our trips. Here is the link: https://roadtrippers.com/plus?via=tracy30. Use this code to get a $5 off coupon – BTR5QTP.
Top Sedona, Arizona, Hiking Trails
We have visited Sedona, Arizona, for extended stays over the years, and we love the easy access to hiking trails plus the range of difficultly. Below are the six that mentioned in the podcast with a links to blog posts with more details.
- Bell Rock Loop
- Courthouse Butte Loop Trail
- Little Horse Trail
- Soldier Pass and Seven Sacred Pools
- Red Rock Crossing/Crescent Moon Picnic Area
- Faye Canyon Trail
Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona, Besides Hiking
If you’re not a hiker, there is still plenty to do in Sedona including, biking, jeep tours, trolly rides to all the iconic stops like Chapel of the Holy Cross, tons of unique shopping, peace park, spa, physic readings, artist or farmers market. Here is a link with more details on these ideas https://solsiteco.com/2020/12/08/sedona-arizona-things-to-do-besides-hiking/.
Best Restaurants in Sedona, Arizona
Below is our lightning round of some of favorite Sedona restaurants, our top pick menu items, and why we like the restaurant.
- The Hudson
- Top Picks: Pork Chop, Burger, Flourless Cake
- Why we like it: Neighborhood/Local feel, great service, cool bar, views
- Mesa Grill
- Top Picks: Breakfast, Spinach & Pork Belly Salad, Burger, Table side Guac
- Why we like it: Drive up to the airport is incredible, fun to watch the planes and helicopters land, dog-friendly patio
- Oak Creek Brewery & Grill
- Top Picks: Beer: Amber Ale and Gold Lager
- Food: O.C.B. Charcuterie Board, Burgers, Grilled Salmon Salad
- Why we like it: Fun atmosphere, located at the historic Tlaquepaque shopping village
- The Secret Garden Cafe
- Top Picks: Reuben, Cole Slaw, Turkey Burger
- Why we like it: Cute and comfortable bar area and patio- also located at Tlaquepaque shopping village
- Indian Gardens
- Top Picks: All of it! And the coffee and juice – great to-go options for a picnic
- Why we like it: Historic general store just 4 miles north of Sedona up 89A, it’s a nice short drive with hikes and views along the way
- Page Springs Cellars
- Top Picks: Shareable Boards
- Why we like it: Live music and great wine. Page Springs Cellars is located approximately 15 miles south of Sedona. Another beautiful drive with other wineries on the way, you can make a day of it.
You can see more of our favorite restaurants at https://solsiteco.com/2020/12/07/best-restaurants-sedona-arizona/.
Lodging in Sedona, Arizona
VRBO: Red Mountain Shadows Retreat
We love this VRBO in West Sedona because it’s in a neighborhood but still close to everything and not part of the craziness of Uptown. It’s a two bed/two bath, lovely kitchen, well-appointed, with a gorgeous backyard. Plus, it’s super dog-friendly! There’s even a private area for the dogs in the yard with a doggie door to the house.
Bed & Breakfast: Alma De Sedona Inn
A lovely spot and location. Mornings at Alma De Sedona Inn start with their famous breakfasts. I’m not a “bed and breakfast” person but this was amazing and we felt like we had our own space. They offer freshly brewed coffee along with juice and warm homemade muffins and scones. You can smell them baking when you wake up! Next is the main course which is different every day and made from scratch.
If you are seeking spirituality or alone time to connect with yourself and nature, Alma De Sedona Inn, offers a Labyrinth and Medicine Wheel. Their gardens are serene and this is such a nice amenity.
Hotel: Sedona Reál Inn and Suites
Spacious, clean, dog friendly hotel with a pool – excellent breakfast – and big fenced picnic/dog play area.
Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024
The Solar Eclipse!! See all the details about the upcoming event at Science Museum of Minnesota HERE.
There is also a fun solar eclipse event in our local area at the Wild River State Park.
Adoptable Dog from Ruff Start Rescue
We are excited and thankful to be sharing something new! We are partnering with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month on the podcast. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol.
Meet Ace Odin!
Photo Credit: Ruff Start Rescue
Ace has been in rescue since May 2022. He is a Mixed American Staffordshire Terrier and American Bulldog and is a little over 3 years old.
He is all about the good vibes—treats, lap snuggles (he’s convinced he can fit on any lap even though he weighs 96 pounds), family car rides, and yard shenanigans. He loves relaxing, walks, playing with toys and chewing on bones. He’ll do best in a home with older kids (maybe above 10) and is not the biggest fan of cats. He has lived with dogs in the past and have done well.
Do you think Ace could be the pup for you?! Visit Ruff Start Rescue HERE.
Upcoming Minnesota Events:
- 4/6/24 Shoreline Goods Grand Opening
- 4/6/24 Craft Fair at Deer Lake Winery
- 4/8/24 Total Solar Eclipse – Wild River State Park. Learn more HERE.
- 4/8/24 Science Museum of Minnesota Solar Eclipse Celebration
- 4/8/24 Bell Museum Solar Eclipse Celebration
- 4/13/24 MN Craft Beer Festival
- 4/14/24 Mpls Vintage Market
- 4/20/24 National Park Week
Reach out and let us know if you are Team Road Trip or Team Fly! OR tell us your favorite local places throughout the US and where we must stop!
Let’s Explore Local Together! #DiscoverInspireConnect
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