Is Sedona Chronic Illness-Friendly?

Getting there

If you’re sensitive to altitude shifts, consider Boost Oxygen—bring it if you’re driving, or ship it to your hotel if you’re flying. It can make a real difference in how you feel (speaking from personal experience).

If the transfer from Phoenix feels like too much for your nervous system, book a private SUV transfer or have a family member drive so you arrive regulated—and still have a car to reach the spots below.

And a quick note on spas: Sedona is full of them, but massage and related techniques do stimulate the nervous system. Even if you tolerate them at home, altitude can lower your margin—so choose gently, shorten sessions, or skip if you’re on the edge.

Here are nine low-effort, high-reward ideas in Sedona that don’t include a spa day.

Experience a vortex (Airport Mesa or Bell Rock)

Visit at off-peak times and sit quietly to notice how your body feels—no hiking required beyond short, graded paths.

Airport Mesa has a drive-up overlook. Bell Rock has flat approach trails where you can stop anytime. Supposedly these are very powerful at healing the body.

Easy hike: Bell Rock Pathway (flat sections)

Start from the southern trailhead and do an out-and-back on the wide, mostly level path. You’ll get classic red-rock views without committing to a full loop or steep climb.

Sedona View Trail (Airport Mesa Overlook)

A short, gentle path leads to panoramic views over town and red rock formations. Go near sunset for cooler temps and softer light.

Sit at an outdoor café and enjoy the view

Pick a patio in Uptown or Tlaquepaque and let the red rocks be the main event. Build in a slow hour for nervous-system downshift: warm drink, shade, and people-watching.

Crescent Moon & Red Rock Crossing

Shaded, mostly flat riverside walking with iconic views of Cathedral Rock. Bring a snack, find a bench or rock by the water, and make it a restorative stop.

Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR-179) pullouts

Take a low-effort scenic drive and use the signed overlooks for short photo/grounding breaks. You’ll cover a lot of beauty with minimal walking. And even while you drive, the scenery is breathtaking!

Chapel of the Holy Cross (drive-up landmark)

The chapel’s perch offers huge views with limited walking from the parking area. Step inside for a few quiet minutes if that feels good.

Stargazing (clear, dark skies)

Sedona’s night skies are phenomenal—enjoy from your lodging patio or a nearby pullout. A light jacket, a seat, and five unhurried minutes can be surprisingly regulating.

Browse Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Shaded courtyards, fountains, and short strolls between galleries make this an easy, sensory-pleasant wander. Sit often—the architecture and greenery offer built-in “glimmers.”

Here are some recommendations of places to eat and drink with a heavy emphasis on outdoor dining, which is so crucial for chronic illness, and notes of which offer room service/delivery for when you are low on spoons.

It is also worth noting that Sedona is great at accommodating food allergies. Just mention it when booking and the staff will tell you whether they have a gf/df menu, etc. and how to order.

• Che Ah Chi (Enchantment Resort): Modern American with Boynton Canyon views. Outdoor dining: Yes. Takeout: Not advertised. Room service: Yes (Enchantment in-room dining for guests).

• Tii Gavo (Enchantment Resort): Southwestern plates on a canyon-view terrace; great at sunset. Outdoor dining: Yes. Takeout: Not advertised. Room service: Yes (via Enchantment for guests).

• Cress on Oak Creek (L’Auberge de Sedona): Creekside fine dining with a tasting-style experience. Outdoor dining: Yes (creekside). Takeout: Not advertised. Room service: Yes (L’Auberge in-room dining for guests).

• Cress Bar (L’Auberge de Sedona): Casual lounge menu and cocktails by the creek. Outdoor dining: Yes. Takeout: Not advertised. Room service: Yes (through L’Auberge for guests).

• Rascal (The Wilde Resort and Spa): Playful, chef-driven comfort food; solid for brunch or dinner. Outdoor dining: Yes (patio). Takeout: Yes—order and pick up at the restaurant (no in-room delivery). Room service: No.

• SaltRock Southwest Kitchen (Amara Resort & Spa): Bright, seasonal Southwest cooking; strong margaritas. Outdoor dining: Yes (patio). Takeout: Yes (call/order and pick-up). Room service: Not offered.

• Elote Café: Sedona staple for bold, modern Mexican; reservations essential. Outdoor dining: Yes. Takeout: Yes (evening pickup). Room service: N/A.

• Mariposa Latin-Inspired Grill: Big red-rock views with a Latin-leaning menu; special-occasion feel. Outdoor dining: Yes (patios). Takeout: Limited/not advertised. Room service: N/A.

• Hideaway Household: Casual pastas, pizza, and salads with one of the best everyday patios. Outdoor dining: Yes. Takeout: Yes. Room service: N/A.