Uptown Sedona - a view of a mountain range with a clear blue sky
1 / 10

Uptown Sedona

4.8
·23 reviews·Sedona, United States

The vibrant heart of Sedona, offering unique shops, art galleries, and dining with stunning red rock vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Uptown Sedona - a view of a mountain range with a clear blue sky

Uptown Sedona

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The vibrant heart of Sedona, offering unique shops, art galleries, and dining with stunning red rock vistas.

4.8
(23 reviews)

"Uptown Sedona is absolutely worth a stop. I went in expecting a standard tourist strip but walked away genuinely impressed."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Park & Explore

Park once and wander! Uptown is very walkable, making it easy to explore shops and eateries. :athletic_shoe:

🍽️ Book Dining Ahead

Popular spots like Elote Cafe are reservation-only. Book in advance to avoid disappointment! :knifeforkplate:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Uptown Shops & Galleries

Uptown Shops & Galleries

Discover unique Native American art, jewelry, boutique clothing, and handcrafted souvenirs. A true shopper's paradise!

The Vault Uptown

The Vault Uptown

Uptown Sedona

Dine with breathtaking red rock views. This restaurant offers a scenic dining experience with great food.

TikTokInstagram
Elote Cafe

Elote Cafe

Uptown Sedona

A highly recommended local favorite for delicious, healthy Mexican cuisine. Reservations are essential!

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking Patience is Key

Parking in Uptown Sedona can be challenging, with lots filling up quickly. Plan to arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit from alternative spots. Free parking is available, but requires some planning. InstagramReddit

Embrace the Walkability

Once parked, Uptown Sedona is incredibly walkable. You can spend hours exploring shops, galleries, and dining spots without needing your car. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sedona, AZ inspo? 📍 Amara Resort in Sedona, AZ (right in Uptown right off of Oak Creek) I have stayed here several times over the years and dare I say it keeps getting better. Chef Cord elevated the already delicious SaltRock Kitchen menu, the drinks are always top notch (they have excellent na options too) - and you just can’t go wrong with that ambiance 😍 Oh the beds? So comfy! Great tea & snack...
@arizonatravelideas
15.3K likes • 344.6K views

🎯 Park & Explore

Park once and wander! Uptown is very walkable, making it easy to explore shops and eateries. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🍽️ Book Dining Ahead

Popular spots like Elote Cafe are reservation-only. Book in advance to avoid disappointment! Instagram :knifeforkplate:

My favorite restaurant in Sedona with insane views! Add this one to your list of restaurants to try! #sedona #restaurantsinsedona #sedonafoodie #dinnerwithaview #arizona #travelusa #creatorsearchinsights @VisitSedona
@thetravelingraven
9.8K likes • 279.6K views
That’s the Sedona Creek Manor effect. ✨ Spend the day exploring iconic Cathedral Rock or wandering through the shops and art galleries in Uptown Sedona. Then come back to your private retreat—complete with a pool, hot tub, sauna, game room, and space for 24. Whether it’s a birthday, bachelorette, family reunion, or just a soul-fueling getaway, this is the Sedona stay you’ll still be smiling abou...
sedonacreekmanor
13 likes • 253 views

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Utilize free parking lots, but be prepared for potential circling or a short walk. Reddit :parking:

🛍️ Unique Souvenirs

Find authentic Native American art and handcrafted items beyond typical tourist trinkets. Reddit

Uptown Sedona Parking Garage Permanent Walls: Adams Scope included Engineering, Drilling and Installation of Soil Nails and Shotcrete Placement (controlled blasting by others). Due to the characteristics of highly fractured layers of rock, fall-out and voids, crews faced challenges head on building wall pop-outs and lost wall lines, all while staying within structural parameters. This project too...
arizonadrilling
11 likes • 463 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Park & Explore

Park once and wander! Uptown is very walkable, making it easy to explore shops and eateries. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🍽️ Book Dining Ahead

Popular spots like Elote Cafe are reservation-only. Book in advance to avoid disappointment! Instagram :knifeforkplate:

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Utilize free parking lots, but be prepared for potential circling or a short walk. Reddit :parking:

🛍️ Unique Souvenirs

Find authentic Native American art and handcrafted items beyond typical tourist trinkets. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Many restaurants offer stunning red rock vistas. Enjoy your meal with a side of Sedona's beauty! TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(23 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Uptown Sedona is a charming and energetic destination that surprises visitors with its blend of shops, galleries, and dining, all set against a backdrop of stunning red rock beauty. While parking can be a challenge, the walkability and vibrant atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop for most travelers. The area is well-maintained and offers a good mix of unique finds and scenic experiences.

"🏜 Uptown Sedona – My Review

🌄 First Impressions

I’ve been to Sedona before, but Uptown really surprised me this time. Walking into this stretch, you instantly feel the mix of charm, energy, and red rock beauty around you. It’s touristy, yes—but in the best possible way. I was pleasantly happy and a bit surprised at how much there is to see and enjoy here.

🖼 Shops & Galleries

The variety of shops is impressive. From Native American jewelry and art to boutique clothing, souvenirs, and handcrafted pieces—you can wander for hours and still discover something new. Many places felt authentic and thoughtfully curated, not just the typical gift-shop setup.

🍴 Dining & Drinks

Plenty of options to grab a bite or sit down for a meal. Cafés, restaurants, cantinas—you name it. I didn’t dive deep into food this trip, but just walking by you can tell there’s a mix of casual quick eats and sit-down dining with views. It’s the kind of place you can start with a coffee, shop, then end the evening with a cocktail on a patio.

🚶 Walkability & Atmosphere

The whole area is very walkable—you can park once and spend the day wandering without ever needing your car again. The streets are clean, safe, and lively with a mix of locals, tourists, and street energy. It has that small-town feel but with enough buzz to keep things interesting.

🧼 Clean & Well-Maintained

One thing that stood out: Uptown is well-kept and clean. The sidewalks, shops, and public spaces are clearly cared for, which makes exploring more enjoyable.

🚗 Parking – The Only Challenge

If there’s one thing that needs patience, it’s parking. Lots fill up fast, and you might need to circle a bit or park farther out and walk in. The good news is the city offers free lots (some all-day, some 3-hour)—so with a little planning, it’s manageable. Once you’re parked, though, you’re set for the day.

✅ Overall:
Uptown Sedona is absolutely worth a stop. I went in expecting a standard tourist strip but walked away genuinely impressed by the scenery, the variety of shops, the walkability, and the overall vibe. Aside from the usual parking squeeze, everything else about Uptown made the visit enjoyable and memorable."

Ravi Singh

"A really fun town! Park and walk. All the places you would expect to in a great tourist destination. What's not to love about Sedona?"

K M

"No pictures can capture the beauty of this place. Sedona is beautiful and magical.

The uptown shops are amazing. You can shop, eat, walk, and sight see, all on this strip. All the while taking in the soul speaking beauty that is the sedona mountains.

The uptown shops give you a small town feel inside of the city.

Everything is walkable. Close to hotels, and everything in between.

There is free parking. Some traffic is to be expected coming into the strip, but it clears up fast. The parking next to the Hilton shops is one hour, so keep that in mind.

There is high end shopping, and tourist shopping. High end restaurants, local restaurants, and a few chain restaurants.

It is a 10 to 15 minute drive to slide rock.

It's definitely worth the drive here."

Nicole D

What People Like

Walkable atmosphere
Unique shops & art
Red rock views

What People Dislike

Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Uptown Sedona is easily accessible by car. If you're coming from Phoenix, take I-17 North to Exit 298 for AZ-179 North, which leads directly to Sedona. Follow AZ-179 N to AZ-89A N, then turn right onto SR 89A N into Uptown. Instagram

While there isn't extensive public transport directly into Uptown, Sedona does have a shuttle service that can be a convenient option for getting around town, especially if you're staying at a hotel with shuttle access. Reddit

Uptown Sedona is designed for walkability. Once you've parked, you can easily explore the shops, restaurants, and galleries on foot. InstagramReddit

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft generally operate in Sedona, including Uptown. This can be a good alternative if you prefer not to drive or deal with parking. Reddit

Uptown Sedona is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive south of Flagstaff, depending on traffic and road conditions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Uptown Sedona itself is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely walk around and explore the streets. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to access Uptown Sedona. However, individual shops, galleries, and restaurants will have their own pricing for goods and services. Reddit

Uptown Sedona doesn't have set operating hours as it's an outdoor area. However, individual shops and restaurants typically open around 10 AM and close between 5 PM and 9 PM, with some staying open later. Reddit

While Uptown itself is best explored independently, many tour operators in Sedona offer excursions that may include stops or pass through Uptown as part of a larger itinerary. Reddit

Yes, for popular restaurants like Elote Cafe, reservations are highly recommended and often required. It's always a good idea to check with specific establishments about their booking policies. Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Uptown Sedona boasts a diverse range of shops, including those selling Native American jewelry and art, unique clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, handcrafted goods, and art galleries. InstagramReddit

Highly recommended spots include The Vault Uptown for views,TikTokInstagram Elote Cafe for Mexican cuisine (reservations needed),Instagram and various options like Don Diego Mexican Cuisine, Sedona Pizza Company, and Canyon Breeze for diverse tastes. Instagram

Yes, you'll find several casual dining options and places for quick bites, including cafes and cantinas, perfect for a mid-shopping refuel. Reddit

Prices vary widely. You can find affordable souvenirs and casual eats, as well as higher-end art, jewelry, and fine dining experiences. Reddit

Beyond standard dining, look for places offering patio seating with views or unique local specialties. Gelato and pizza are also popular choices. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The entire Uptown area offers picturesque views of the red rocks. Many shops and restaurants have charming facades, and the street itself is photogenic. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Many restaurants and some vantage points along the street offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding red rock formations. TikTokInstagram+1

While not designated viewpoints, many businesses have patios or balconies that provide excellent photo opportunities. Simply looking up and around will reveal many scenic spots. Instagram+1

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photographing the red rocks and the town. Midday can be bright but still offers good opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in populated areas and national parks. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in or around Uptown Sedona. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Uptown Sedona offers a fun and engaging experience for families. The walkable streets make it easy for kids to explore shops and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Instagram Look for places offering kid-friendly menus or treats like gelato. Instagram While there aren't specific 'attractions' for children within Uptown itself, the novelty of the shops and the general buzz of the area can keep younger visitors entertained. Consider it a great place for a family stroll and souvenir hunting. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Sedona can be an upscale destination, Uptown offers ways to enjoy it on a budget. Take advantage of the free parking options and focus on exploring the shops and enjoying the views. Reddit Many shops offer affordable souvenirs, and you can find casual eateries or cafes for more budget-friendly meals. Reddit Consider packing snacks and water to save on impulse buys. Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Uptown Sedona provides a charming backdrop for couples. Enjoy leisurely strolls hand-in-hand through the unique shops and galleries. Reddit For a romantic evening, consider dining at a restaurant with stunning sunset views, like The Vault Uptown. TikTokInstagram Many accommodations near Uptown, like Sedona Views Bed and Breakfast, offer amenities like private jacuzzis and fireplaces for a truly special stay. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Parking in Uptown Sedona

Parking is often cited as the primary challenge for visitors to Uptown Sedona. While the area is designed to be walkable, finding a convenient spot can require patience. Several parking lots are available, including some that offer free parking for a limited time or all day. Reddit The parking garage mentioned in some content is a permanent structure that was engineered and built to withstand the unique geological conditions of the area. Instagram

To make parking easier, consider arriving early in the morning, especially on weekdays, to secure a spot in the most popular lots. If your first choice is full, don't get discouraged; there are often other options slightly further out that still allow for a manageable walk into the heart of Uptown. Reddit Some parking near the Hilton shops is limited to one hour, so be mindful of signage. Reddit

Once you've parked, the best strategy is to leave your car and explore on foot. The compact nature of Uptown makes it ideal for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere without the hassle of moving your vehicle. InstagramReddit

The Shopping Experience in Uptown Sedona

Uptown Sedona is a vibrant hub for shoppers, offering a diverse array of goods that cater to various tastes. Beyond typical tourist souvenirs, you'll find a significant presence of authentic Native American art, jewelry, and crafts, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Reddit Many of these items are thoughtfully curated, offering a genuine connection to local artistry. Reddit

In addition to indigenous crafts, the area features charming boutiques with unique clothing, accessories, and handcrafted items. Art galleries showcase local and regional talent, providing opportunities to discover and purchase distinctive pieces. Reddit Whether you're looking for a small memento or a significant piece of art, Uptown Sedona's shopping scene is designed to provide an engaging and rewarding experience. InstagramReddit

It's worth noting that the shopping experience here is often described as having a 'small-town feel' within a popular tourist destination, making it a pleasant place to browse and discover treasures. Reddit

Dining with a View in Uptown Sedona

Uptown Sedona offers a culinary landscape that often pairs delicious food with spectacular scenery. Restaurants like The Vault Uptown are specifically highlighted for their stunning red rock views, making them ideal for a memorable dining experience. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the restaurants with panoramic vistas, the area provides a range of dining options, from casual cafes and cantinas to more upscale establishments. This variety ensures that visitors can find something to suit their mood and appetite, whether they're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely sit-down meal. Reddit

Popular choices mentioned include Mexican cuisine at Elote Cafe (reservations are a must!),Instagram Italian at Sedona Pizza Company, and American fare at places like Open Range and Canyon Breeze. Instagram Even if you're just grabbing a coffee or gelato, the vibrant atmosphere of Uptown adds to the overall enjoyment. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2