Cottonwood in Central Arizona sits below Mingus Mountain in the Verde Valley, and you will get a feeling of history as you walk down the Main Street.
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Cottonwood claims 25 species around the world, from the Himalayan Mountains to the plateaus of Chile. Alone has 11 species. However, only two cottonwoods have commercial importance: Eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides), native from the Midwest to the Atlantic, and black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa), which grows in the valleys of the Pacific Northwest. Cottonwood trees are one of three species in the section Aigeros in the genus Populus. These trees are native to North America, Western Asia, and Europe. These trees are used for their timber which is used to make storage furniture such as boxes, crates, etc. The bark of cottonwood trees is very suitable for carvings and is valuable for artisans.
Its climate is tempered by altitude (3,300 feet) so it avoids the heat of the desert but also the cold of areas located even higher in the State. To the northeast there are the red rocks of Sedona and the southwest, Mingus Mountain.
You will be able to see evidence of ancient civilizations and cultures with the chance of exploring nearby parks. Alternatively, the Verde River offers activities for those seeking outdoor adventures and at certain times of the year, the migratory population of birdlife is most impressive.
Here are 15 things to do in Cottonwood which will certainly fill up your time when you are there.
1. Historic Old Town
Time has been kind to the Old Town.
The architectural heritage of Old Town Cottonwood is recognized in the USA’s National Register of Historic Places. On Main Street, there are buildings that originate from the era of “Prohibition,” and they are put to good use today.
Even if you have not come to shop, you will find it very difficult not to browse the shops and galleries that are found on Main Street. You will suddenly get the urge to buy; at least the locals will hope so.
2. Old Town Center for the Arts
This Center opened in the 1930s, made from local river stone and concrete. A series of special events held here means there is always something to enjoy.
It plays a role in educating everyone that walks through its doors, increasing people’s awareness of the Arts. You may learn more about farming and gardening, the local wine industry, or enjoy local theater performances.
There is a calendar of events and whenever you visit Cottonwood, there is certain to be something of interest in the Old Town Center for the Arts.
3. Clemenceau Heritage Museum
The history of Cottonwood and the other local communities in the Verde Valley is impressively revealed in this Museum. It includes the periods when copper mining was a major activity.
Learn more about the early settler days and the railroad which played such an important role in the development of Arizona and the West. Model train displays are especially good, and certainly something for children to enjoy.
See a pioneer kitchen and bedroom, a classroom from just after World War II, and a representation of a copper mine and smelter. It is a place for all the family.
4. Arizona Copper Art Museum
If you want to know more about copper and its use, this Museum is the place where all will be revealed. It is located in Clarkdale just four miles from Cottonwood.
Arizona has mined huge amounts of copper since it was first discovered, and the exhibits within the museum are a great illustration of what it has been used for over the years.
There are a number of sections within the museum and the Historical Collection especially is very interesting. You will learn about the military use of copper as well as its use for art and architecture, household goods, and how it has helped the drinks industry with distillery and winery products.
5. Tuzigoot National Monument
The site of Tuzigoot began to be cleared in the 1930s. It is an ancient village of the Sinagua Culture which dates from around the 11th century.
There were around 110 rooms in Tuzigoot in buildings, usually either two or three storeys high. At its peak, it is thought that around 230 people would have lived here. Close by, there are burial sites and over 400 sets of human remains were found during initial excavations.
The Sinagua were farmers though there is evidence that they traded with peoples over an extremely wide area of the continent.
6. Mingus Mountain
Mingus Mountain in Prescot National Forest is a great place for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities, including simply walking and enjoying the fresh air.
Mountain biking and horse-riding trails are found here, with those wanting to stay for a while able to camp in tents or rented cabins.
The fishing is good and picnic areas are there for family day trips.
Little has changed here since the days of the early settlers who panned for gold. The vegetation changes with the altitude, starting as desert and as you climb, shrubland, before forests of juniper and pine.
7. Larry’s Antiques and Things
One of the places where you may be tempted to spend money is Larry’s, where you will find items dating back to the 19th Century. The building itself was constructed in 1895 and was once an auto dealership.
Native American artifacts, old paintings and tools, and items associated with the “Wild West” are all on display. It is almost like walking into a museum and there is no pressure to buy although you are certainly welcome to do so.
A great place for people of all ages.
8. Blazin’ M Ranch
‘’Westworld’’ was a popular film and subsequently a TV Series. Its theme allowed people to live out their dreams of being in the Wild West.
The Blazin’ M Ranch seeks to offer a similar experience and its popularity seems to suggest there are plenty of people keen to do so. Head back to the pioneering days by going out to Blazin’ M Ranch.
Kids will love it, but grown-ups seen to do so as well; a great day out for the family and anyone who wants something a little different on their holidays.
9. The Verde River
If you find a spot of fishing relaxing, you can head to the nearby Verde River, sit on its banks, and try your luck. The species that you may catch include bass, catfish, and trout depending on the season.
It is fun to go kayaking on the river and slowly pass some lovely scenery as you go.
Whitewater rafting is a more vigorous alternative but that is entirely dependent on the flow when you are there. At times, there is insufficient water to offer that activity. However, one way or another, you will enjoy your time at Verde River.
10. Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Head across the Verde River from Cottonwood and you will find the Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Take a day trip to the park and if you have more time, you may decide to camp there.
It is a lovely park for hiking and if you have an interest in birdlife, take your binoculars with you. The trails are suitable for horse riding as well. At over 3,000 feet above sea level, the climate is ideal for activities.
Water enthusiasts can canoe or fish in the river, so you will never be lost for things to do if you head to this park.
11. Pillsbury Wine Company & Vineyard
When you think of US Wine you may think of Napa Valley in California; fine, but Arizona is also a notable wine producing region. Pillsbury in Cottonwood can definitely claim that the quality of its wines makes it worth a visit.
A good range of white, rosé and red wines are there for you to try. The list of awards that they have won in recent times, for example, 14 medals from the 2018 San Francisco Chronicle American Wine Awards, is impressive.
Shiraz and Grenache are the two to try and buy if you are looking for ideas, or perhaps a Chardonnay or Viognier?
12. Alcantara Vineyards and Winery
A family-owned and run vineyard, Alcantara has 13,000 wines in 12 different varieties.
The setting of the vineyard in the Valley’s foothills is lovely and adds to the experience of sampling the wines.
Regular tasting tours are available with a selection of food plates to accompany your choices; cheeses or antipasto for example. Before you sit down to sample, you will be given plenty of information on winemaking and see the production first-hand.
13. Burning Tree Cellars Tasting Room
Burning Tree on Main Street specializes in small batched wines with interesting names such as “The Impressionist,” “The Duke,” or “The Dragon”. If you go for a tasting, you can discuss the range and the grapes being used.
The Cellars do not seek to sell their wines through traditional retail outlets and invite visitors to join their Wine Club if they enjoy what they sample. If you are a regular wine drinker at home, it may be a good idea? Free to join and spring and fall shipments make it worthwhile.
14. Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
This Church on the outskirts of Cottonwood provides a feel of old and new. It is a fairly recent build, but the style is very traditional with a very interesting use of wood and plain white walls. You may feel that you are in an old mansion rather than a modern church.
Interesting statues and stained glass, some retrieved from old churches elsewhere in the country, add to its appearance. Some of the statues are copies of relics from places such as Lourdes and Santiago de Compostela.
15. Riverfront Park
The largest park in Cottonwood has plenty to entertain a family, including youngsters in a safe play area. It is great for a family picnic or BBQ.
As well as sand volleyball courts and a five-court horseshoe pit, there is a large grassed field for games.
When it comes to sports, there is the possibility of ice hockey, skateboarding, and softball, as well as an 18-tee disc golf. There is even a section set aside for dogs with separate areas for those being trained, and another for smaller dogs that need to be kept separate from larger ones.
Living in Sedona, Arizona: The Definitive Guide aims to highlight some of the many reasons why people are choosing to live in the area. When USA Weekend comprised a list of The Most Beautiful Places to Live, Sedona was considered the 1st choice. After looking out over the stunning red sandstone formations it’s not hard to see why.
Located in the heart of Arizona, Sedona is surrounded by National Forest Wilderness. It is at an elevation of 4,500 feet in Arizona’s high desert.
This guide will go over a number of different aspects of life in Sedona such as best neighborhoods, restaurants, education system, and amenities. If you are considering a move to Sedona, you will want to keep reading!
Chapter 1: Where is Sedona?
Sedona is located in the Upper Sonoran Desert of northern Arizona and the city straddles the county lines between Coconino County and Yavapai County.
Right in the middle of Arizona, Sedona is based at the mouth of Oak Creek Canyon, in the northern Verde Valley Region.
Sedona is approximately 45 minutes south of Flagstaff, Arizona and roughly 2 hours north of Phoenix.
Chapter 2: General Overview
The city of Sedona offers some of the best views in the country to its residents. Along with many other reasons, a comfortable climate, beautiful homes and a strong sense of community are just some of the things people are coming to Sedona for.
Why do people move to Sedona, Arizona?
Being considered the most beautiful place to live is reason enough for many to want to plant some roots in Sedona.
The breathtaking views of the Red Rock Formations and Sonoran Desert have residents enjoying hiking, biking, and sightseeing. And with comfortable temperatures for all seasons, the area is an outdoor oasis all year long.
A growing economy and thriving tourism industry have seen an increase in job opportunities throughout the area.
The city is also heavily invested in the community, putting on a number of events and festivals for residents during the year.
What are Sedona’s origins?
Sedona, Arizona has a rich history with human presence in the area dating all the way back to 11500-9000 BC. Native American tribes have lived throughout the area intermediately for many years.
The first Anglo-American settlers, John J. Thompson, arrived in the area in 1876. Early settlers of Sedona were mainly farmers and ranchers.
In 1902, when the first post office was established, there were only 55 residents in Sedona.
In 1950, Sedona was developed as a tourist destination, vacation spot and retirement town with most of the construction done in the area between 1980 and 1990.
Chapter 3: Business and Jobs
Sedona relies heavily on the tourism industry to support the economy. Approximately 10,000 jobs and more than 1 billion dollars is attributed to tourists.
Roughly 20% of the Sedona workforce is in the Accommodation/Food and Arts/Entertainment sectors.
Visitor related activity generates a large amount, 77% to be exact, of the sales tax collection for the city.
Some other industries in the Sedona are Educational/Healthcare/Social Assistance, making up for 21%, Professional/Scientific/Management at 15% and Construction and Retail Trade, both at approximately 10%.
What can you expect to be paid in Sedona?
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Though many factors play a major role in salaries, such as education and experience, the average income for workers in Sedona is $38,202.00.
That being said if you are part of a double income household, you would be averaging close to $80,000.00 per year.
Popular jobs in the city of Sedona include Restaurant Managers, Hotel Managers, which pay anywhere between $52,000 to over $80,000 per year. According to payscale.com some of the major employers in the city are Pink Jeep Tours, with an average salary of $61,500, Enchantment Resorts, with an average salary of $64,265 and Hilton Worldwide, with an average salary of $60,000.
With job opportunities in various sectors and industries available, your next dream career could be waiting for you in Sedona. Check out postings and ads online!
Chapter 4: Education
The city of Sedona knows that education is a top priority for its residents. Well rated schools with caring and invested teachers are what parents can expect to find in Sedona.
In this chapter, we will review educational options from kindergarten to post-secondary.
What schools are in Sedona?
The city of Sedona is served by the accredited Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District.
The schools in Sedona are West Sedona School, serving children from kindergarten through to grade 6. They will then move on to Sedona Red Rock Jr/ High School, which serves grades 7-12.
Alternative Education options:
For families interested in alternative education options, there are a number of options in Sedona.
Running River School is a private elementary school inspired by the Waldorf education philosophy. They are currently servicing students from 1st through 7th grade.
Sedona Charter School, along with its sister school, Sedona Montessori School, is an independent, Montessori school for children pre-k through grade 8.
Red Rock Academy has founded the Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District and provides online education for students in high school.
Verde Valley High School which is an International Boarding School which offers boarding and day school for grades 9-12.
Post-Secondary Education:
Sedona is home to the Sedona campus of nearby Yavapai College.
This center offers the College’s culinary programs along with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institution and the Community Education for the Verde Valley.
Chapter 5: Where to live in Sedona?
Sedona is full of great neighborhoods and communities all with their own benefits and amenities.
Some of the best neighborhoods in Sedona:
Highland Estates:
The neighborhood of Highland Estates is a premier, gated residential community located off of Mundy Drive.
Highland Estates began its development in the late 1980’s and continued to grow for years after. The area is home to 65 lots.
An invested and engaged homeowners association manages the neighborhood and organizes community events such as the annual Highland Estates Potluck.
Homes in Highland Estates average a list price of $947,000.
Les Spring:
The gated community of Les Spring is host to 106 hillside homes that were specifically designed as to blend into the surrounding landscape.
These luxurious homes are earth-toned and provide minimal obstruction to the sought after and breathtaking views.
The area is managed by a homeowners association which takes care of amenities in the neighborhood such as a community pool, fitness area, and clubhouse.
Homes are valued anywhere between $600,000 to over 1 million depending on size, lot and features.
Casa Contenta:
Situated in the beautiful West Sedona, Casa Contenta is a luxury gated community which offers unparalleled views of Red Rock.
The area has 99 homes while reserving 75% of the community for open space and common areas.
Close to shopping, parks and trails the neighborhood is one of the most desirable locations in Sedona.
With all that Casa Contenta has to offer, a thriving homeowners association, pool, full time landscapers and access to amenities, homes in the area average 1 million and up.
Seven Canyons:
Seven Canyons is set on the outskirts of Sedona and is a gated community full of amenities and friendly neighbors.
Located on a pristine golf course designed by golf legend Tom Weiskopf, Seven Canyons is a luxurious and exclusive neighborhood.
Access to the golf course, pool and clubhouse are just some of the reasons so many residents are flocking to Seven Canyons.
Homes in the Seven Canyons neighborhood are designed with every need in mind and begin at 1.4 million.
Chapter 6: Transportation:
This chapter will take a look at ways to get around Sedona and neighboring cities as well as what larger cities are in the area.
Transportation options:
The public transportation in Sedona is provided by the Verde Lynx.
There is 1 public bus that travels between Sedona and Cottonwood.
The Verde Lynx runs 7 days a week and currently has 10 stops in Sedona between West Sedona, Uptown, Hillside and Poco Diablo and 2 stops in Cottonwood.
The bus is very reasonably priced, being only $2.00 per ride and $1.00 for trips within Sedona.
Destinations nearby:
Sedona is located just 29 miles south of Flagstaff, Arizona and the trip would take roughly 49 minutes via the AZ-89A North.
The large city of Phoenix is set 117 miles south of Sedona, which is roughly 1 hour and 55 minutes down the I-17 southbound.
If your travel requires a flight, the nearest commercial airport is the Phoenix Skyharbor International Airport. The trip is approximately 2 hours as the airport lies 119 miles from Sedona.
Chapter 7: Restaurants
The city of Sedona is filled with dining options for all tastes and preferences. Due to its high volume of tourists, the dining scene has become a staple for Sedona.
Some of the best restaurants in Sedona:
Creekside American Bistro: located near Oak Creek, Creekside Amerian Bistro offers more than just an amazing menu, they also offer stunning views. Their eclectic menu and extensive drink list can be enjoyed in the cozy dining room or on one of two patios.
Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante: set in a warm and inviting villa, Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante serves homemade Italian dishes along with an impressive wine list. Fresh ingredients and classic cooking has visitors and locals alike raving about Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante.
Outlaw Grille: A low-key atmosphere, Outlaw Grille, is the perfect burger joint. Enjoy a step back in time with their old west, cowboy decor. Serving hefty burgers and classic American BBQ, Outlaw Grille, meals can be enjoyed on their partially covered patio.
Javelina Cantina: If you are in the mood for some hot and tasty mexican food then you will want to hit up Javelina Cantina. A modern twist on traditional mexican fare complemented by stunning views of Red Rock.
Chapter 8: What to do in Sedona
In addition to the dining scene in Sedona, the city is full of activities and events held throughout the year.
Annual Events in Sedona:
Sedona International Film Festival – this annual, eight day event is a celebration of film. With notable industry professionals attending, the festival is a highlight for many in Sedona.
Sedona Arts Festival – held at the Red Rock High School campus, the Sedona Arts Festival showcases over 100 artists. Along with food, music and kidzone, the Arts Festival has something for everyone.
Sedona Winefest – A perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy some amazing local wines. The Sedona Winefest is held at the Posse Grounds Park which offers beautiful views of the Red Rock Formations.
Pumpkin Splash – A unique event, the Pumpkin Splash, is pumpkin picking with a twist. The Sedona community pool is filled with pumpkins as residents dive in and make their choice. Along with games and activities, this annual event is a community favorite.
Sedona Festival of Lights – Welcome in the holiday season at the annual Sedona Festival of Lights. This event is full of activities, live music and warm apple cider. A yearly tradition that ushers in the holidays.
Outdoor Activities in Sedona:
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Sedona is surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest land, offering some of the best views in the world. With plenty of activities and sightseeing options available, visitors and residents will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery.
From hiking to biking, horseback riding to ATVing, there are numerous ways to venture around the endless trails and parks in Sedona. There are a handful of guided tours and excursions available through different companies in Sedona.
Grab your fishing gear and head to Oak Creek for the day. One of Arizona’s most beautiful trout creeks, Oak Creek offers superior fishing with a view!
Sedona is home to some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country. With panoramic views and pristine greens, golfing in Sedona is an elevated experience. Enjoy a round at Seven Canyons, Oakcreek Country Club, Canyon Mesa Country Club or Sedona Golf Resort for a game you won’t soon forget.
Art and Culture:
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With artist being inspired by the views and scenery, it is not hard to understand why Sedona is home to over 80 art galleries.
Dotted throughout the town, there is work for artists known around the world.
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Check out Gallery Row, which is a cluster of galleries along route 179. You will also find galleries in Uptown, West Sedona and Hillside amount other locations.
Does Sedona have what you are looking for? Could this slice of heaven in the desert be your next home?
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We hope this guide gave you a glimpse into all Sedona, Arizona has to offer!