The Sedona area is rich in culture and one cannot help but be curious about the indigenous people and the historical sites that play a significant part in the popularity of the area. Here are a few must-see tours and attractions in addition to Kachina House in the area.
The Vorte
xes
If you are at all familiar with Sedona, you’ve likely heard about the vortexes. Many people are drawn to Sedona to visit these, and it’s definitely worth the effort. The vortexes are large, oddly shaped rocks that are said to emit energy. Sedona has four primary vortexes, all of which produce different energies such as masculine, feminine and balance. You can tour these vortexes with different Sedona tour companies, or pick up a local map or booklet to visit them on your own.
Anasazi Ruins
Both guided tours and self-guided tours are offered at many Sedona-area ruin sites. These sites offer a glimpse into ancient Pueblo culture. Many of these sites are managed by the National Park Service and the National Forest Service, preserving vital history of cultures that could be found throughout the Southwest over the last thousand years. Some ruin sites to check out include Palatki, Walnut Canyon, Honanki, Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
If you are a spiritual person, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a great tourist site to visit. It’s a cultural site, designed by Marguerite Brunswig Staude in the 1950s. The church is set into the red cliffs and features a giant cross that overlooks some of the Sedona red rocks. A stunning stained glass window surrounds the cross which serves as the entire end of the building. This site is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Sedona. You can light candles for loved ones in the church or simply take in the view. Vortexes are also an attraction here.
Hopi Culture
Located three hours northeast of Sedona, the Hopi Indian reservation is a key Native American tour in the Sedona area. Guided tours are available of Old Oraibi and Walpi, which are the oldest continuously inhabited villages in the U.S. The Hopi are recognized as the “Peaceful People” and are known for their Katsina ceremonies, Katsina carvings, and their practice of dry farming. If you venture to Hopi, be prepared to see Katsina carvings, pottery, jewelry and other handcrafted items.
Monument Valley
Venture out to see breathtaking Monument Valley. Its unique red rock pinnacles and monoliths soar between 400 and 1,000 feet off the desert floor. Inhabited by the Navajo people (Diné) for a thousand years, these gorgeous works of nature are known as the Tsé Bii’ Ndzisgaii, or valley of the rocks. Explore this culture-rich area and take in the skilled handcrafted items the Diné are known for.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, one of the seven Wonders of the World, is just two hours north of Sedona. Do not miss the opportunity to see this very important natural wonder that is a major attraction as well as a spiritual and living cultural place for all the Native peoples of the southwest. The Hopi story of emergence is at the base of the Canyon. The Havasupai still live there and the Navajo and Puebloans have many connections to the canyon as well.
For more information about Native American culture, visit Kachina House.
