Amitabha Stupa was one of my favorite spots in Sedona. There was a calm, spiritual aura at this vortex that inspired me. The bronze Amitabha, Buddha of Limitless Light, is filled with millions of prayers for peace. It is said that remembering or visualizing a stupa, having any kind of connection with one, will imbue you with a blessing and connect you to enlightenment. Make an offering of a coin, a flower, a personal object with meaning. The value is not of importance. To preserve this spiritual site, purchase a carved ground stone and leave your legacy at this holy place.

Evening Sky Tours took me on a star gazing tour of the Sedona night sky under a canopy of the most amazing, illuminated sky. The astronomer Charlie shared his enthusiasm and knowledge of the night sky. Chairs and blankets were provided alongside state-of-the-art telescopes and high-powered lasers, ensuring nothing would be missed. I was so excited to see such clear images of the moon and constellations. Sedona offers some of the best night sky conditions for viewing our solar system. It is a wonderful way to end the day in Sedona.

Tlaquepaque is Sedona’s most popular arts and crafts village. The plazas, arches and fountains with Mexican architectural influence house over 40 fine art galleries, gift shops and restaurants. I loved the statues that filled the courtyards from Eagles to Buddhas to life size horses. There are many photo opportunities. Just outside its walls are a variety of crystal shops filled with spiritual advisors ready to do a reading. Tlaquepaque provides a unique experience among the center of the red rocks.

]Red Rock BBQ – I asked locals around town for the best place to get real good old-fashioned bbq. They gave me a few suggestions, but Red Rock was on everyone’s list. It is a cute, small restaurant that serves some mighty portions. I definitely could have shared my meal, although my full rack of baby backs made for a great lunch the next day! The service was great and the food did not disappoint. It was just hard to choose from their tasty menu. I will say they have the best home made croutons!

Cowboy Club was another food suggestion on everyone’s must dine at list. It is definitely a big tourist spot and convenient being smack center in the middle of town and perfect for dining before and after a tour. I was looking for a hearty, good old-fashioned hamburger. It was a perfect choice and satisfied my craving before the drive back to phoenix.

Crystal Magic’s colorful windows caught my eye on the way into town from Phoenix. I knew to expect a plethora of crystal shops and spiritual readers around town, but this had to be one of the greatest crystal shops that I visited. They had amazing pieces in their collection. I also loved the Magic Clothing Store right next door. Although pricey for me, they certainly had one of a kind boutique items and clothing that I would have loved to bring home with me. I had to save something for next time.