Visit the ruins of a once-prosperous community of the ancient Sinagua. One of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America, the Montezuma's Castle boasts five stories and 20 rooms. Inhabited more than 600 years ago, much of the building is still intact. The best time of the year to visit is December and January. Binoculars would be beneficial for a closer view. Walkways are provided and are wheelchair-accessible. Check website for further details.
Courthouse Butte is a gigantic mound of sedimented rock, forming one of the major landmarks of the city. Resting in the Yavapai County, this rock has an altitude of 5,454 feet (1662.37 meters), creating a picturesque hiking trail. Courthouse Butte is one landmark, which intrigues not only ardent geologists with its Permian Supai formation, but also adventurous hikers, who love the scenic hiking spot.
Dominating the outskirts of Sedona with its impressive visage, Cathedral Rock is one of the most recognized sandstone formations among the red rocks that define the city's landscape. Carved by nature, the rock makes for an exhilarating hiking excursion, with vantage points along the way dazzling visitors with stunning views of the surrounding vistas. Hikers and explorers can follow the Cathedral Rock Trail to access some of the landmark's best overlook points to bask in the scenery unfolding all around. Owing to its scenic environs, photography sessions are particularly rewarding.
Rise above the mundane in sumptuous style in a guided hot-air balloon. Take an early morning ride and float with the wind above incomparable red rock vistas. Do not be surprised to spy wildlife as well as breathtaking scenery. All pilots are licensed through the FAA and possess intimate knowledge of the area. Landing includes a champagne picnic and a certificate for having flown with the group. Included with your reservation is a videotape of the flight to capture your memories.
Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park rests among a thick cover of pine and juniper trees, giving out a peaceful vibe. The sacred shrine is known to have existed for 2600 years, which makes it even more intriguing. Stupas are very sacred to the Buddhist culture, as they are meant to have the living essence of the Buddha himself. This sacred place is surrounded by scenic hillocks, featuring a striking crimson, that truly bring out the earthy colors of the Stupa. On entering the shrine, one can notice an uncanny peace overpowering their body, creating a gentle hum of solace and serenity; making this tranquil spot a must visit.
Sedona Airport Vortex is a one of the major vortexes in the city. A Vortex is a spot wherein one can notice a whirlpool, creating a high level of wind energy in the surroundings. At this side, the energy is so high that even the tree trunks have twisted, creating patterns, that are unique and interesting. The spot is a great hiking place, from where you can overlook the city, giving you an enthralling experience. Those who love the idea of hikes, must visit Sedona Airport Vortex, for an unforgettable experience.
Camp Verde Community Center, located on Main Street, is a versatile venue for local events. Equipped with a gym and excellent sports facilities, it organizes weekly basketball tournaments. This rental facility is ideal for private functions, cultural events and festivals. The annual Wine, Pecan & Antique Festival and the Festival of American Indian Arts are major crowd drawers.
If you have an interest in history and archaeology then do visit the Verde Valley Archaeology Center and Museum. The museum houses the permanent Paul Dyck Rockshelter Collection Exhibit while temporary exhibits such as Prehistoric Life in Camp Verde and the Honanki Collection have been kept on display. You can actively participate in the tours organized by the center to various locations in the American continent for archaeology excavations. The museum also emphasizes about the history of the Verde Valley and its occupants like the Yavapai-Apache tribes.
Take a soldier's stance in beautiful Verde Valley. Though it's hard to imagine, this peaceful park was a military fort in the late 1800s defending the scenic area we still enjoy today. Four of the original buildings stood against the test of time, and they are open to the public for tours. A museum and three refurbished officers quarters give visitors a glimpse of how life was when the fort bustled with activity. The park is open every day except Christmas.