We’re excited! One of our beautiful agave plants at our Sedona hotel is blooming! We can’t believe how fast she’s growing! Just for fun, we thought we would ask all of you to guess how tall the bloom will get to be.

Here’s where we are as of Wednesday, May 16th:

• The plant is 3 ½ feet across and 3 feet tall
• The bloom stalk is 17” around and 11 ½ feet tall

Now the question is: How tall do you think it will get?

We’re going to measure her every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, so we can keep you updated on her progress.Comment here on the blog, or go to our Inn of Sedona Facebook page, to give us your guesses!

The photo includes Jorge, who is our “official” agave measurer!

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

If you love independent film you do not want to miss the opportunity to view the amazing student films from the Class of 2012 at the ZGI Shorts Film Festival taking place this Memorial Day Weekend in Sedona, Arizona!

The festival will kick off on Friday at 5:30 pm with the Career and Gear Fair. Students and festival attendees will have an opportunity to see the latest film equipment, watch demos and find out about job opportunities in the industry. Then on Saturday and Sunday there will be screenings of over 30 student shorts, High School Film Competition winners, Alumni films and ZGI Award winners from the Class of 2011.

Dan Gordon’s Screenwriting Awards will be presented Saturday evening, followed by a special feature film presentation. Cinephile’s will be treated to a Q&A with the filmmaker, after the movie.

Sunday’s screenings will be followed by the ZGI Shorts Film Festival awards. Peer selected awards for Directing, Producing, Editing, Sound, Production Design and more will presented. Their volunteer angels will be busily counting ballots and the Audience Choice award, Sponsored by Tim & Judy Maloney, and will be given to one lucky filmmaker. The awards ceremony will be followed by a Wrap Party and B-B-Q.

Passes are on sale now!
Choose the Pass that fits your budget.  Please call Rue 928-649-4257 to purchase your passes today!

• Premiere Pass – All events + Free popcorn + 2 Free Raffle tickets $30
• 1- Day Screener – $8
• 2 Day Screener – $15
• Career & Gear Fair + 1 Free Raffle ticket $5

All this information and more can be found by visiting the Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking or visit them on Facebook.

• • • • •

Sedona is going to be busy this coming Memorial Day Weekend. If you are going to be staying with us at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona, rooms are filling up quickly, make sure to make your reservations as soon as possible, You will also want to make your reservations for the Sedona tours you would like to take before you get here. Our concierge will be more than happy to assist you in scheduling your Sedona tours.

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

We appreciate the fact that you can’t always plan in advance. And we know that sometimes you’re heading to Sedona without knowing where you’ll spend the night. We think you should still get a deal, even at the last minute.

Visit our mobile site from your smart phone and you’ll see a phone icon at the bottom of the page. When you click on it you’ll find your Mobile Special. Show that page to our front desk agents to receive your discount. It’s that easy!

We’re not talking about 5%, or even 10%, this is a 15% discount off our standard rate! We don’t offer this rate anywhere but from our mobile site, so even if you’re a last minute kind of person, you’re still a VIP with us at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona.

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

Mark your calendar for the 22nd Annual Zuni Festival of Arts and Culture taking place at the Museum of Northern Arizona on May 26th and 27th, 2012. The Museum of Northern Arizona is located in Flagstaff, Arizona and is only 45 minutes from our Sedona hotel. (See map below)

This is the 22nd year Zuni will gather at the Museum of Northern Arizona for the Zuni Festival of Arts and Culture, bringing with them cultural presentations, fine arts, music, and dances to explore A:shiwi philosophy, beliefs, worldviews, values, and current issues on the Zuni Indian Reservation. The festival is produced in partnership with the A:shiwi A:wan Museum and Heritage Center (AAMHC) in Zuni, New Mexico.

ZUNI ORIGINS AND WAYS OF KNOWING
At the headwaters of the Little Colorado River, at what is now western New Mexico, amidst wide red mesas, golden buttes, pinyon/juniper forests, and an expansive blue sky lies the scenic valley homeland of the A:shiwi or Zuni. They are descendants of an ancient Puebloan people who have lived at the Zuni Village for thousands of years and call Ribbon Falls their place of origin, where they emerged from Mother Earth within the Grand Canyon and migrated across the Colorado Plateau.

Heritage Program Manager Anne Doyle says, “Today’s A:shiwi have managed to preserve their core beliefs and identity, while integrating useful parts of the outside world into their culture. They are often considered the most traditional of all of the Southwestern pueblo people.” Doyle continues, “The Zuni language is known as an isolate, which is indicative of their physical and cultural isolation. Their language bears no similarity to any other known language and may have been spoken by many Southwestern populations in the distant past.”

 Director Jim Enote says, “The A:shiwi A:wan Museum and Heritage Center emphasizes A:shiwi ways of knowing, while exploring other concepts of knowledge. The Zuni Festival provides an opportunity for the AAMHC to represent the Zuni people as a society that continues to define and influence the art, economy, and history of the Colorado Plateau. Practically everywhere you look around the region, you will see Zuni images, yet very few people know their connection to Zuni.”

 This event will give you tremendous insight on the wonderful Zuni people and their ancient culture. Some of the highlights of the festival are: Heritage Insight Presentations,The Zuni Emergence Migration Story, Zuni Agriculture and Ancient Agricultural Techniques, Zuni Art History, Archival Films and Photos,Traditional Dancers, The Zuni Pueblo Band and Zuni Artists and Demonstrators. For more information on this event please visit the Museum of Northern Arizona.

 Map from the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona to the Museum on Northern Arizona

View Larger Map

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

If your going to be visiting Sedona, Arizona on June 2nd, 2012 make sure not to miss the first annual “Tlaquepaque Pet-a-Walkie! Bring your best pet friend, whether it walks, flies, slithers or jumps! All friendly socialized pets on a leash are welcome (dog-size or smaller please!) There will be contests, booths, food, live entertainment, silent auction and tons of fun for the whole family. Local favorites, Tom and Shondra, will be the emcees, and Mayor Adams will officiate the judging. And don’t forget to dress up your pet for the chance to win big prizes!

Win prizes for:

• Best in Show
• Most Unusual/Creative
• Most Fashionable Pet
• Best Pet Trick
• Best Pet/Owner Look-Alike and more.

Pre-registration per pet will be $20. Day of event will be $22. Registration includes a t-shirt and goodie bag.This event will help raise awareness and money for orphaned pets while promoting responsible pet ownership. All proceeds will benefit the Sedona Humane Society and each pet’s registration will be tax deductible. Register here! For additional information please contact 928-282-4838 or visit The Humane Society of Sedona.

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

The moon is reaching what’s known as its “perigee”, the closest approach to earth in its orbit – a mere 221,802 miles away. It will appear 16 percent brighter than the average full moon. – Washington Post

What better way to celebrate and enjoy the Supermoon than with an unforgettable experience at Red Rock State Park with their Guided Moonlight Hikes taking place on both May 5th & 6th, 2012. The Moonlight Hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive program on the Park’s beautiful trails. Hikers enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. The Hike lasts from two to 2 1/2 hours and covers a distance of approximately two miles. The Park recommends that you come through the gate approximately 30 minutes before the starting time to insure your participation. No late arrivals can be allowed to join the hike. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes (preparing for cool nights) and bring water, a flashlight, and insect spray. Reservations are required and starting time will be given to you when you make them. A $5.00 per person program fee will be charged at the time of the reservations. There is also a $10.00 entrance fee to the Park for a car of four adults. Program fees are non-refundable unless the Park must cancel the hike after your arrival. Please call 928.282.6907 for reservations.

We are forecasting a very busy summer in Sedona and the Verde Valley. We are offering some great Sedona hotel deals that will save you money on your stay at the Inn of Sedona this summer that also include popular Sedona tours or attractions. To see how to save money on your Sedona Vacation please visit the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona Vacation Packages.

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

This coming weekend is the weekend of all weekends to visit Sedona, Arizona! The Sedona area is bursting with events and festivals, there is definitely something for everyone in your family to enjoy! Below you will find the events for this weekend broken down into four Categories: Arts, Cinco de Mayo Celebrations, Live Entertainment and Guided Hikes! We offer a free about town Sedona shuttle to our Guest at the Inn of Sedona. If you see a picture of our shuttle by the event our Shuttle can take you there!

Arts

1st Friday Evening in the Galleries
Meet Local Artists & Tour the Galleries
May 4th, 2012 (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
On the first Friday of each month, members of the Sedona Gallery Association offer a unique monthly showcase highlighting artists, special exhibits, and art events. These special art receptions give locals and Sedona visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy light refreshments while beginning their weekends with an exploration of Sedona’s exciting art scene. For your convenience, the Sedona Trolley provides free transportation to venture from art gallery to art gallery.To see a schedule of all the Artists Receptions and exhibits please visit the Sedona Gallery Association.

*******

Sedona Arts Center
2nd Annual Sedona Fine Art Auction
Items Displayed – May 2nd – 5th, 2012,  Silent Auction May 5th
This prestigious auction will feature works from Arizona’s finest artists and award-winning Plein Air artists from across the country. All auction items will be on display starting Wednesday, May 2nd – 5th from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm prior to the close of the Silent Auction at 3:30 pm on Saturday, May 5th. The exciting Live Auction begins at 3:45 pm on Saturday, May 5th at the Sedona Arts Center, 15 Art Barn Road in Sedona. For more information please visit the Sedona Fine Arts Center.

*******

Sedona Visual Artists Coalition
2012 Open Studios Tour and Season
May 5th & 6th 2012 (10:00 am – 5:00 pm)
The season will begin with a weekend-long studio tour on May 5th & 6th, 2012 (10:00 am – 5:00 pm each day), during which all of the participating studios will be open to visitors. Following that kick-off weekend, participating studios will continue to receive visitors for the rest of the year, either by appointment or during specific tour days scheduled individually by each studio. All studio tours and visits will be free to the public. For more information please visit the Sedona Visual Artists Coalition. Check with the front desk to see if a Studio is on our list of Sedona Shuttle drop offs.

*******

Jerome Art Walk
Arizona’s Art Destination
May 5th, 2012 (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Every first Saturday, the creative community of Jerome is pleased to host an evening of art, music and entertainment with open studios and galleries displaying local, regional and national artistic treasures. This free event has become a Verde Valley favorite with a shuttle that will transport you from the artist filled Old Jerome High School, up to the center of town with The Lincoln Gallery and Made in Jerome Pottery and everything in-between. For more information please visit the Jerome Art Walk.

*******

Cinco de Mayo

Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tlaquepaque
May 5th, 2012
Immerse yourself in a colorful Fiesta saluting a rich heritage on Saturday, May 5th, 2012 at Tlaquepaque. Enjoy the festivities while cheering and whistling to the music of mariachi musicians, clapping to the steps of folklórico dancers and savoring traditional Mexican foods at Tlaquepaque’s famed El Rincon Restaurante. Entertainment Schedule: Andres Martinez (Latin Rhythm) will be performing in Patio Del Norte from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Ballet Folklorico will be performing at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm in Plaza De La Fuente, Eric Miller will be performing from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. They will also have Mariachi Rodriguez roaming the Calle Independencia and the streets of Tlaquepaque from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. For more information on this Sedona event please visit the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.

*******

Verde Canyon Railroad
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
May 5th, 2012
The Railroad hosts a lively festivity saluting a rich Hispanic culture with roots that run deep and reverberate throughout the Verde Valley.The fun begins on the shaded patio before the train departs at 1:00 pm. The rhythmic vitality of Mariachi music sets the festive mood while freshly-prepared south-of-the-border entrees and specialty drinks rock the patio. The flow of signature margaritas continues aboard the train as you’re cooled by a seductive breeze on an open-air car while savoring our heart-squeezing panoramas.For more information or to purchase your train tickets please visit the Verde Canyon Railroad.

******

Studio Live Sedona
ZENPROV: Cinco Delightful
May 5th, 2012 (7:30 pm)
Kick off Cinco De Mayo with Zenprov Comedy for the first live performance at the new Mary D. Fisher theater! The troupe promises a “fiesta of funny” with their one-night only “Cinco-De-Lightful” show. Like the TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Zenprov performs fast-paced, improvised comedic scenes created in the moment—always based on audience suggestions. For more information on this Sedona event or to purchase tickets please visit Studio Live Sedona.

*******

Live Entertainment

Verde Valley Fair
“Carnival Rides, Rodeo and Fun”
May 2nd – 6th, 2012
Enjoy five days and nights of non-stop fun and entertainment at the Verde Valley Fair! Entertainment lineup includes Gwen Sebastian, Street Drum Corp,and more! The Grand Canyon Rodeo brings adrenaline pumping Rodeo action to the fair on Friday and Saturday night at 7:00pm. Events include your favorite rough stock action; Bareback, Saddle Broncs and of course Bull Riding. With 5 full days packed with great music, great food, exciting rodeo action, exhilarating carnival rides and games, livestock shows and fun for all, you won’t want to miss out. For more information please visit the Verde Valley Fair.

*******

Studio Live Sedona
Sedona Poetry Slam – Featuring New York City poet Sean Patrick Mulroy
May 5th, 2012 (7:30 pm)
For some spicy words on Cinco de Mayo, Sedona’s Studio Live hosts a poetry slam Saturday, featuring New York City poet Sean Patrick Mulroy and hosted by Sedona poet Christopher Fox Graham. All poets are welcome to compete for the $75 grand prize and $25 second-place prize.The slam will be the sixth and last of the 2011-12 regular season, which has been more moving, more energetic and more intense because this year as poets compete for a slot in Sedona’s first National Poetry Slam Team. For more information on this Sedona event please visit Studio Live Sedona.

*******

Sedona Guided Hikes

Red Rock State Park
Sedona guided Moonlight Hikes
May 5th & 6th
An unforgettable experience, Moonlight Hikes include a naturalist-led interpretive program on the Park’s beautiful trails. Hikers have the rare opportunity to enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. The Hike lasts from two to 2 1/2 hours and covers a distance of approximately two miles. The Park recommends that you come through the gate approximately 30 minutes before the starting time to insure your participation because no late arrivals can be allowed to join the hike. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes (preparing for cool nights) and bring water, a flashlight, and insect spray. Reservations are required and starting time will be given when you make them. A $5.00 per person program fee will be charged at the time of the reservations. There is also a $10.00 entrance fee to the Park for a car of four adults. Please call 928.282.6907 for reservations.

*******

Red Rock State Park
Guided Bird Walk
May 5th
Meet up with other bird lovers at the visitors center and enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of the most popular parks in Northern Arizona . Bird enthusiasts can join a naturalist for a “Guided Bird Walk”. Beginners as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend that visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the Park. Make sure to contact the park about schedule changes or reservations. Call 928.282.6907

*******

Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Guided Nature Walk
May 6th
Nature Walks will start on Sunday mornings and last for 1-2 hours. The guided hikes will meander along riparian areas or stroll through the high desert trails within the park. Hikers need to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing; sturdy shoes, a hat. Says hike leader Ranger Margie Sanchez, “You might want to bring binoculars and a camera, too. These hikes are a great opportunity for wildlife sightings and photo ops.” Most hikes start at the Quail Loop Campground – inquire at the gate for starting points. For more information, call Dead Horse Ranch State Park at 928.634.5283.. The Day use fee of $7.00 applies, or Annual Passes are accepted.

Visit us at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona today!

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

All of us at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona would like to congratulate Alyson Smith of West Valley City, Utah who won the Sedona 4 night getaway giveaway at WeJustGotBackcom.

This giveaway includes a four-night stay for a family of four at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona, a Pink Jeep Tour of the winner’s choice; all-day passes to Out of Africa Wildlife Park for two adults and two children; and a horseback trail ride and meal at M Diamond Ranch for two adults and two children.

Congratulations again Alyson we are looking forward to meeting you and your family!

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

If you are going to be visiting Sedona, Arizona this weekend make sure to check out the Red Rose Inspiration for Animals Arts & Crafts Show. This arts and crafts show has become a popular Sedona event to both locals and vacationers in Sedona. By attending this event not only do you help support an organization that excels at saving the lives of many wonderful and loving animals, but you also get a chance to see the creations of talented local artists and craftsmen that participate in the show.This event takes place in West Sedona in the front and side parking lot at Olde Sedona Bar and Grill located at 1405 W. State Highway 89 A. If you are a guest of ours at the Inn of Sedona, we will be more than happy to drop your off and pick you up at the event in our free about town Sedona shuttle. Saturday hours are 10:00 am – 6:00 pm & Sunday hours are 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.

There will also be a special Red Rock Pet Adoption Event taking place on May 12th, 2012 at 525 Posse Grounds Road, in Sedona Arizona. There will be many happy tails, from local shelters and rescues in Northern Arizona, looking for their forever homes. They will have canine demonstrations along with animal vendors, products samples, talented artists, as well as fabulous raffle and silent auction prizes. The first 100 adoptees will receive a tote bag filled with goodies, and a 5lb bag of dog food. You are welcome to bring your dog to this event and particiipate in their costume contest and other categories. Low-cost Micro-chipping and Vaccinations available all day. Free Admission and Parking. For more details please visit the Red Rose Inspiration for Animals.

 The Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona is proud to be a pet friendly hotel!

Bookmark It

Hide Sites

All of us at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona are proud to offer you our “Romancing the Rails” Sedona Vacation Package that combines lodging at the Inn of Sedona with a first class voyage on the Verde Canyon Railroad. Known as Arizona’s longest-running nature show, the Verde Canyon Railroad trains take you on a scenic tour along the Verde River, over bridges and old-fashioned trestles, and past crimson cliffs, red rock pinnacles and ancient Sinagua Indian ruins into the heart of spectacular Sycamore Canyon. Depending on the season, you’ll enjoy spring flowers, fall foliage, migrating waterfowl, and wintering bald and golden eagles. It’s a riparian wonderland in “ Arizona’s Other Grand Canyon.”  See below for package details.

“Romancing the Rails” Sedona Vacation Package

• Save 20% with this Sedona vacation package
• 3 Days / 2 Nights at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona
• Two First Class Tickets on the Verde Canyon Wilderness Train
• Free Full Hot Breakfast
• Additional nights are available at prevailing rates without amenities of the package
• Packages are priced for two adults.Call our concierge at 800.292.6344 for children or extra adults.
• For more information or to book this package please visit Sedona Vacation Packages

Bookmark It

Hide Sites