Lumber barons Timothy and Michael Riordan built this 40-room mansion in 1904 to house their massive families. Its architect, Charles Whittlesey, also designed the magnificent El Tovar Hotel located at the Grand Canyon. What's most interesting about the structure is that the two sides are mirror images, with a huge common area in the center, to provide each family with identical private quarters and shared living spaces. The park also includes picnic areas and a visitors center that contains exhibits. Guided tours of the mansion and grounds are held at regular times throughout the day.
Located north of Flagstaff near the Wupatki National Monument, this volcano last erupted a little before the Norman Conquest on the other side of the world in 1066. The volcanic eruption scattered ash and black cinder for miles around the area. Serendipitously, the ashen soil allowed subsequent tribes to inhabit the area due to its ability to retain water. Alongside the volcano, visitors can examine fascinating geologic features such as 'Squeeze-ups' and 'Hornitos,' which are bulbous mounds of lava and droplets. Hike along the one-mile Lava Flow Trail and discover hidden wonders or climb a nearby cinder cone on the Lennox Crater Trail and enjoy the astounding views. Unfortunately, hiking to the top is prohibited.
Rand-McNally named Highway 89's panoramic path through Oak Creek Canyon one of the most beautiful drives in America, designating it Arizona's first scenic route. Towering trees line the beds of Oak Creek, whose natural springs are said to have healing powers. The water winds through mountain shadows to Sedona's famed red rock vistas. Four mild seasons support a canyon kaleidoscope of wildlife, foliage, and fun. Attractions include hiking, biking and trout fishing and be sure to stop at the Slide Rock State Park.
A popular site in Sedona, Airport Mesa is situated along the Table Top Mountain. This spot is also known to have high levels of healing energy, as it is one of the few vortexes dotting the city. The trail looping around Airport Mesa is quite picturesque, enabling visitors to admire the surrounding scenery while focusing on their introspection and meditative practices. Sedona features several landmarks that have effortlessly contributed to its popularity among hikers and adventure seekers, and Airport Mesa is one of the most well-known ones among them. So if you are in love with the idea of adventure sprinkled with a dash of healing, Airport Mesa is the place for you.
One of the most happening streets in the city of Sedona, Main Street is a pedestrian friendly destination lined up with cafes with lovely outdoor patios, restaurants, hotels and shopping destinations. With a backdrop of the stunning, Red Rock Hills, not only does the street offer quite a dramatic landscape, but the absence of cars also lends to the charm of walking down this road. Bronze plaques featuring the hand and foot prints of several actors, outdoor sculptures and historical buildings also make Main Street a tourist destination for many. An absolute must-visit during your time in the city, Main Street Sedona won't disappoint you with its many offerings.
With an elevation of nearly 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), the Slide Rock State Park features a 30-foot (9.14 meter) natural rockslide within the creek. Take a couple of hours and enjoy the nature walk while you relax under the Arizona sunshine. Visit the onsite market. Camping and hotel accommodations are offered in Oak Creek and nearby Sedona. Swimming is allowed, however, water quality varies, so visitors are advised to verify the accessibility in advance. Whether it's sliding down the waterslide, swimming in Oak Creek, hiking through the canyon, or enjoying a picnic amidst the stunning scenery, visitors to Slide Rock State Park will find a blend of adventure and natural beauty that makes it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists alike.