3 things to do in Sedona

Whether you want to grind it out in a mountain-bike race or pass time in a more contemplative way, you can do it in Sedona. While you’re there, here are suggestions for a delicious meal and a good night’s sleep.

Eat

Desert Flour Bakery & Bistro serves three meals a day but many patrons head straight for the dessert case, with its red velvet cupcakes, giant cookies and assortment of pastries and bread. Stop by on your way into or out of Sedona or to fuel up before a hike or bike ride.

The restaurant serves pizza, sandwiches and salad for lunch. At dinner, zero in on the small plates, including homemade meatloaf sliders and Southwest grilled polenta. If you’re in the area in the afternoon, there’s a daily happy hour.

Details: 6446 State Route 179, Village of Oak Creek. 928-284-4633, desertflour.com.

Play

During Sedona Bike & Brew, mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels will bomb along a 6-mile track over and through Sedona Golf Resort’s golf layout. Categories include Pro and Sport for men and women, a junior division for ages 13-17, and kids ages 6-12 and age 6 and younger.

Details: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29. Sedona Golf Resort, 35 Ridge Trail Drive. $75; $10 for Friday short-track race. $150 for VIP entry. Junior and kids races free. sedonagolfresort.com/race.

If a less aggressive activity is more your style, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross. This Catholic chapel, built in 1956, is a favorite with photographers because it appears to shoot up from two spectacular red-rock formations. It is open to people of all faiths who seek a spot for contemplation (and awesome views.) Visitors flock to the chapel year-round and it’s a popular tour stop, so be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and during the summer. Come early in the morning to avoid the biggest throngs.

Details: 780 Chapel Road. 928-282-4069, chapeloftheholycross.com.

Stay

Location is a big plus at Best Western Plus Arroyo Hotel & Creekside Villas uptown. You can walk to shops and restaurants and you’re centrally located for exploring west Sedona, Tlaquepaque and Oak Creek Canyon.

The hotel, which features nice views from its rooms, offers a complimentary full breakfast. Families with kids will like the access to the indoor/outdoor pool, hot tub and game room at the neighboring Arroyo Roble time-share resort. Best Western’s creekside villas are part of that complex.

Details: 400 N. State Route 89A. 800-733-3662, bestwesternsedona.com.