Sedona makes a terrific weekend getaway, offering natural beauty and some interesting sites within a relatively compact area. The city has grown with its legions of tourists in mind, and its pedestrian-friendly shopping areas, delicious restaurants, and impressively diverse galleries—all surrounded by the red rocks—make exploring the town hassle-free.

Couples yearning for a quick romantic trip with minimal stress can easily pop up from Phoenix for an overnight stay at one of Sedona’s charming resorts that overlook Oak Creek. More adventurous travelers, though, may want to stay two or three nights in order to enjoy the natural attractions and historic sites throughout the Verde Valley.

The nearby Slide Rock State Park, small mining town of Jerome, and Native American ruins that dot the area make Sedona a convenient home base for side trips.

Outdoor lovers could easily tack on a few extra days to explore Sedona’s hiking and biking trails, horseback ride, play golf or tennis, or appreciate the red rocks from a hot-air balloon or biplane.

No matter what time of year you visit, Sedona’s landscape fails to disappoint. Spring wildflowers and autumn leaves are irresistible incentives, not to mention balmy temperatures. Summer, on the other hand, is quite warm, with highs in the mid- to high-90s, but it cools off considerably at night. The occasional light snow in winter and annual holiday-light events make a winter trip to Sedona a compelling option.