The Arizona Experience: Sedona and the Drive-Thru Safari
Experience a scenic, wildlife-filled one day trip as I explore a drive-thru safari and the stunning beauty of Sedona for the first time.
Arizona is a fascinating state full of stark contrasts, with Phoenix serving as both the state capital and its largest city. You’ll experience scorching summers and mild winters. You’ll find palm trees, a variety of cacti, and beautiful wildflowers. The southern part of the state is no exception, as cities like Tucson and Yuma have even hotter summer temperatures, surrounded by a rugged and stunning landscape. But if you take a 2-3 hour drive north to Sedona and eventually Flagstaff, where you hit the east-west highway of Interstate 40, the desert scenery transforms into rolling mountains that rise to the Colorado Plateau, swapping palm trees for pine trees and offering a cooler, more alpine climate. I noticed this contrast during a work trip to the Phoenix suburb of Scottsdale, Arizona, where I planned a little workation at the end of the week. Following a coworker’s suggestion, I decided to head north to check out Bearizona, a drive-thru safari and walk-through wildlife park, and spend an afternoon in the breathtaking town of Sedona.
A Morning Drive through a Drive-Thru Safari
We've all heard about drive-thrus and probably used one at least once in our lives. They're great for grabbing food on the go, like that breakfast sandwich you've been wanting, a late-night snack, or even a latte. You can also use a drive-thru to quickly wash your car. Need to do some banking? You can handle deposits or withdrawals through a drive-thru too. Plus, you can pick up your prescriptions without leaving your car. But what if I told you that this specific drive-thru can turn your car, or even a rental, into your very own safari vehicle? Just stay inside, drive slowly and carefully along the trail, and you'll get to see animals from all around the globe. Expect to spot timber wolves, arctic wolves, bobcats, bears, goats, bison, and so much more. Once you're done driving through, you can walk around and get up close (but safely) with a variety of wild animals. Bearizona is truly an unforgettable experience.
The Road Trip Up North
Before I hit the road as part of my prep, I checked the weather and saw it was going to be pretty chilly, so I knew I had to bundle up but also be ready to peel off some layers as the day warmed up while heading north and then south. I planned to drive north, leaving early in the morning when it was a brisk 53 degrees Fahrenheit in Scottsdale on a late February morning. After grabbing some breakfast, I set off north on Interstate 17 towards Williams, Arizona. I clearly remember the landscape undulating a lot, with palm trees gradually disappearing and giving way to mountain views, cooler temperatures (with some snow on the ground), and a shifting scenery. When I arrived in Williams around mid-morning, it was a cold but sunny 36 degrees Fahrenheit. Why such a big drop in temperature? Well, Williams sits at about 6,916 feet above sea level, while Scottsdale is only around 1,500 feet up.
Start with the Drive-Thru Safari at Bearizona
I proceeded to enter Bearizona through its magnificent rock gate, where you will approach a tunnel. I rolled down my driver side window to chat with the admission staff, who explained the fee and the park's rules. You can also find the rules posted around the park. Simply put, keep your windows and doors closed at all times, drive slowly, be respectful of the animals and you'll be fine. I always live by the idea that animals are more scared of humans than the other way around.
Once you move through the tunnel, you'll encounter Rocky Mountain goats, reindeer (shh, don't tell Santa Claus!), tundra wolves, arctic wolves, black bears, bison, and bighorn sheep. Navigating the trail can be somewhat nerve-wracking, as you must drive cautiously while the animals wander freely. I recall when I got close to the bison; several were blocking the road, and the only option was to maneuver around them slowly and carefully. Also, be ready to stop if you're in a line of vehicles behind others.
This experience was really fascinating, stunning, and a tad nerve-wracking for me. I felt a bit anxious since I was behind the wheel of a rental car, and while I try to be as respectful as possible, you can't really control what others do behind the wheel of their respective vehicles, which comes with its own risks. But the payoff is getting to see these amazing creatures in their natural environment, in a spacious habitat where they're well cared for, have plenty of room to roam, and can be free, all while being monitored for the safety of both the guests and the animals.
Finish with a Walk-Thru at Bearizona
After doing a few loops around the drive-thru safari, I decided to check out the "walk-thru" portion, which features grizzly bears, bobcats, foxes and badgers. Walking in to the walk-thru area, you will see numerous signs directing you to the various animals you can see. You can also order food, beverages and see shows involving the respective animals and their handlers in the "central park" area. As my visit was in the late-winter, part of the park was closed for some renovations, so unfortunately I couldn't see Otter Mountain, or any of the exhibits on the east side of the entrance. However, I was able to see the bobcats, grizzy bears, foxes and badgers.
The enclosures for the respective animals appeared to be spacious and they appeared to be well-taken care of. I was fascinated with watching the grizzly bears and seeing how peaceful they were, and playful they were with their handler, but they are kept behind a fence for a reason. I was also fascinated with the bobcats as well. This portion is a terrific spot as you will get to see the animals up close but have some form of protection in between them and you at the same time. The walk-through experience is great for everyone, especially for those without a vehicle! If you're concerned about the 'drive-thru safari,' this serves as an ideal substitute.
What Should You Do First?
To be honest, I don't think you could go wrong either way if you were to start with the drive-thru safari, or the walk thru at Bearizona. If you're taking the drive from Scottsdale, it probably wouldn't hurt to have an opportunity to stretch your legs if you haven't already done so as it an almost 3 hour drive up. However, I made it a point to stop a few times on the way up to stretch my legs and get coffee, or even pick up some souvenirs! After all, travel isn't always about sticking to an itinerary - take in the experience, breathe it in and enjoy it. You may never get an experience like this again.
Bearizona is located on 1500 E Hist. Rte 66 in Williams, AZ just off of Interstate 40. It is open year round, and opens daily at 9am, with the last car admitted at 4pm, and the park itself closes at 5:30pm.
The admission fee is "per person" according to the website, and includes the self-guided drive-thru portion, along with the walk-thru portion, Barnyard (seasonal) and various shows. An add-on VIP Tour Experience is also available for an additional fees in addition to the admission fee.
An Afternoon in Sedona
Sedona is frequently mentioned as a must-see destination in the American Southwest, and for good reason. This town is renowned for its stunning scenery, encircled by magnificent red rock formations and a distinctly Native American atmosphere. After enjoying my morning at Bearizona, I embarked on an hour-long journey to Sedona, beginning on Interstate 40 East, briefly merging onto Interstate 17 South, and then taking Exit 337 to connect with State Route 89A. The drive was truly remarkable!
This breathtaking drive encourages you to relax as you are surrounded by stunning views. After a smooth section, you'll encounter the winding Oak Creek Vista road that descends into the canyon. Just a word of caution, this road can be challenging at times, so choose a nice day for your trip. However, the views are truly unmatched. I wanted to take more pictures, but I had to be cautious. There are numerous picturesque spots where you can pause and enjoy the scenery, and trust me, every stop is worthwhile as you navigate through this canyon. It was the perfect preview for the main attraction that awaited me in Sedona.
Parking in Sedona
Sedona is a small, walkable city with plenty of parking options around. I parked at the Wayside Chapel Lot located at 425 Mountain View Dr, Sedona, AZ. You might find that Sedona's popularity can make parking a bit tricky, and that day was no different. Even on a weekday, right in the middle of the day, I managed to snag one of the last available spots in that lot. There are other parking lots nearby too. Sedona has created walkways connecting the main tourist area to these nearby lots, making it easy for visitors to get to the heart of the town. My walkway was brief but offered such a lovely view of the town at the end.
Grab Lunch at Open Range Grill and Tavern
After spending the morning with the animals at Bearizona, and navigating my way into town through the incredibly scenic drive, I was famished and needed a quick stop for lunch. The Open Range Grill and Tavern on 320 N State Rte 89A in Sedona, AZ came highly recommended after doing some quick research on Google Maps, so I stopped in. Their menu is extensive, featuring steaks, tacos, salads, burgers, wraps and much more. As you can see in the photo below, i'm a simple man. Just give me a beer, a good turkey wrap and some fries and i'm happy. Food was good, and if you can get a seat in the restaurant area where you'll get that view, it's worth it. Unfortunately, yours truly had a hard time getting that seat, so a bar seat will do!
Sip a Glass of Wine at Winery 1912
The overall perception Arizona and wine might not be a well known mix when it comes to wine, but according to the Winery 1912 website, winemaking in Arizona dates back to 1690!
Arizona wine may be new to some, but has a rich history in this challenging terrain that is older than the state itself. Jesuit priests brought the first Vinifera to Arizona around 1690. Today, Arizona’s largest & most diverse vineyard, Dragoon Mountain Vineyard thrives in Southeast Arizona.
Surrounded by a nearly perfect ring of five distinct mountain ranges in what is referred to scientifically as a caldera, 59 soil types define this growing region. Very hot, dry desert days make the wine grapes struggle to become their best and cool night allow the grapes to rest and retain the perfect acidity. This preserves the delicious, natural flavors and characteristics of the grapes that will make some of the finest wines in the world.
After nearly a four year research and application process, Willcox was recognized bt the Federal Government as an exceptional growing region and awarded the distinction of being a unique American Viticultural Area.
Winery 1912 affords a cozy, relaxed space for you to sip some great red wine (or white wine) and take in the glorious red rocks of Sedona. The wine is terrific and the views are hard to beat!
Take in the Scenery and Walk Around Sedona
Unfortunately, my first visit to Sedona was short, but I definitely plan to come back. The breathtaking views of the red rock formations, the relaxed atmosphere, and the numerous free or low-cost activities I discovered while exploring Sedona make it a destination worth revisiting. You can easily join a local guided tour, or simply pull over during your journey, step out of your car, and take in the stunning scenery of this incredible place. While there are some 'tourist trap shops'—which is common in such towns—if you can avoid them or limit your visits, you should have a great experience. Moreover, there are many state parks nearby, making a trip truly rewarding—even if it's just for a couple of days.
