Sedona, AZ

A Brief History of Sedona

The town's name has a charming origin story. T.C. Schnebly was an enterprising young man who built a large two-story home that also served as the area's first hotel and general store, and he organized the little village's first post office. When his proposed names for the post office were rejected for being too long, his brother Ellsworth suggested naming it after T.C.'s wife, Sedona Miller Schnebly. The Postmaster General approved it, and on June 26, 1902, the name "Sedona" became official.

Almost 100 feature films and countless video productions and commercials have been shot in the Sedona area. Hollywood discovered the red rocks in earnest in the 1940s and 1950s, bringing stars like John Wayne, James Stewart, and Henry Fonda to film Westerns against the dramatic sandstone backdrop. That cinematic attention introduced Sedona's landscapes to audiences worldwide and sparked the tourism boom that would reshape the community for generations. The town wasn't incorporated as a city until 1988, reflecting its gradual evolution from an agricultural settlement to a world-class destination. Visit Sedona

Living and Working in Sedona

Sedona offers a quality of life that is genuinely hard to match. Surrounded by the Coconino National Forest and framed by iconic red rock formations, residents wake up every day to some of the most spectacular scenery in the American Southwest. The mild, four-season climate, elevated at around 4,000 feet, brings warm summers that are far more comfortable than the desert floors to the south and winters that rarely overstay their welcome. Tourism is the cornerstone of Sedona's economic base, with more than 3 million visitors arriving annually, and the city's small-town character is preserved by a preponderance of small, owner-operated businesses that serve both visitors and the community. 

Opportunities in hospitality, wellness, the arts, real estate, and remote work draw a diverse and energetic population. Families benefit from the above-average schools of the Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District, access to Northern Arizona Healthcare services, and an abundance of outdoor recreation right outside the front door. Whether you are drawn here by the hiking trails, the thriving arts scene, the spiritual wellness culture, or simply the peace that comes with living somewhere this beautiful, Sedona rewards those who choose to call it home.

The Must-Sees of Sedona

Discover exceptional experiences just minutes from our Sedona location at 7000 AZ-179, Suite B100-1. Whether you are a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, these local favorites are worth your time:

• Chapel of the Holy Cross: Built into the red rocks and inspired by the Empire State Building, this stunning Roman Catholic chapel is open to visitors of all faiths. The 90-foot cross, designed by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, is considered one of America's man-made wonders. The views from the approach alone make this a must-visit Sedona landmark.
• Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village: Internationally renowned Tlaquepaque (pronounced Tla-keh-pah-keh) treats visitors to an exceptional collection of art galleries and shops bordered by outstanding restaurants, including a microbrewery. With cobblestone walkways and a Spanish Colonial atmosphere, it is one of the most charming shopping destinations in Arizona.
• Slide Rock State Park: Located in Oak Creek Canyon, this beloved park is home to a natural rock waterslide carved by the creek over thousands of years. The park is home to a 43-acre working apple orchard and offers swimming, picnicking, and hiking for the whole family. It is one of Arizona's most visited state parks for good reason.
• Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill: This upscale restaurant serves South American-inspired cuisine with sweeping views of the red rocks. Consistently praised as one of Sedona's top dining destinations, it pairs an inventive menu with an atmosphere that feels as special as the scenery outside.
• Red Rock State Park: A quieter alternative to some of Sedona's busier trailheads, Red Rock State Park offers well-maintained trails, wildlife viewing, and some of the best views of Cathedral Rock available anywhere. It is a wonderful spot for families, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Oak Creek up close.
• Pink Jeep Tours Sedona: There isn't a more iconic way to experience Sedona than on a Pink Jeep tour, with countless options ranging from extra-rugged to paved routes so you can select the perfect level of excitement for your group. Knowledgeable guides share the geology, history, and stories behind the formations in a way that makes the landscape even more memorable.

Your Dental Home in Sedona

When you are ready to schedule your next visit with a trusted Sedona dentist, Peak Family Dental Care is here for you. Call our Sedona office at 928-842-8189 or book your appointment online. Our team looks forward to serving you and your family right here in one of Arizona's most remarkable communities. And if you are ever visiting the Verde Valley from another part of the region, our Cottonwood and Flagstaff offices are also ready to welcome you. For anyone searching for a Sedona dentist who truly understands this community, we are proud to be your neighbors.