Froggy

I have been searching all the posts to try to finish up our vacation to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. We are in a tizzy and although we have a few months to book stuff we know we have to make decisions soon before everything gets booked up. My husband and I have decided to drive directly to the Grand Canyon from Orange County California for 2 nights at the Maswik. We figure the drive would only be about 7 hours and we can handle that or we could take the train from Williams and stay over night at the GC.Time wise would we be better driving straight through or should we be doing the train? Sedona is another thing that is confusing me.We have no idea where would be a nice and reasonable place to stay. Every web site makes the places look very nice but I know you can be fooled by those.Last time we were there we stayed at the Briar Patch which we liked but was over our budget. Would you stay at the river places or red rock hotels/cabins? we liked the river a lot and I am trying to find an affordable place there. But then we never stayed at the places with red rock views. We will be there for 3 days with day trips to surrounding areas. The weather won't be a problem as we have been in hoter places than Arizona. We had our honeymoon at Death Valley and can handle heat. Any help would be so appreciated. Rather than list a bunch of places, I thought it would be interesting to see where others have been and why. Our budget is between 120 to 150 a night.Sorry for the long post! Thanks for all your input.

Vicky

I stayed at the Sky Ranch Lodge my last trip to Sedona in Feb and paid $105/night for large room with king bed, fireplace, fridge, coffeepot. A few steps to the overlook - can see all of WEst Sedona, Coffee Pot Rock, incredible view. A few mins walk to the Airport Restaurant (which has really good food if not great service due to always being full at least when I was there). It isn't plush but is comfy, friendly and a good value. Have also stayed at Radisson Poco Diablo (chain feeling) and Enchantment (fab but we were there during 'value season'. There are lots of nice places to stay, however. I love Sedona so much am planning to move there.

MFNYC

I also stayed at the Sky Ranch, primarily because of good reviews at great value. Also great views. This should be in your budget. I think their website is www.skyranchlodge.com

zootsi

I will also vouch for the Sky Ranch - very relaxing and unique place.

SueDoc

We were in Sedona last month and stayed in Oak Creek Canyon at the Canyon Villa Inn. Their rates may be a little more than what you want to spend, but we absolutely loved this place. The breakfasts and after noon appetizers are delicious and the hosts are great . The rooms look right out on the red rocks - Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. Check it out at canyonvilla.com.

I also found this place along the creek. http://www.innonoakcreek.com/index.htm. You mentioned staying by the river, but I'm not sure which river you meant.

E

We have stayed at Sky Ranch twice, the first time because a friend who used to work there recommended it, the second time because we liked its location, amenities, and price. I would happily stay there again, because it has no equal in its price range; the other chain motels in town are generic and not nearly as well-located. In that price range, Sky Ranch is hands-down the best choice.

If I had more $ to burn and were going for a more romantic, just-me-and-the-SO type of visit (the last 2 times we were travelling with family), I would check out some of the more luxurious properties that have been discussed on this board.

Happy Trails!

sfowler

We stayed at The Orchard Inn at L'Auberge -- check out the specials -- it has great views from the rooms and the pool.

Froggy

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am eyeing the Sky Ranch. All the posts seem to vouch for it.