Sedona’s Whimsical Gem: Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Tlaquepaque (pronounced T-la-keh-pah-keh, because yes, it’s as fun to say as it is to explore) is like someone uprooted a charming Spanish/Mexican village from its country and plopped it in the middle of Sedona.

This place is magical. And no, not in the same way the red rocks and vortexes are. It’s enchanting in an air all its own.

The big leafy trees, vine-covered stucco walls, cobblestone paths, and arched entryways make you feel like you’ve time-traveled to another era—or at least another country. It definitely doesn’t feel like the rest of Sedona, that’s for sure.

Tlaquepaque Arts And Shopping Village in Sedona

I visited Tlaq with my parents, and they were loving every minute of being there. My mom was absolutely losing it over the photo ops here. She kept saying, “I feel like I’m in Europe!” as she dragged me from one picturesque corner to the next.

I think she took more photos here than she did of Sedona’s natural landscapes. But also, honestly, I was slightly losing it too… no shame!

Let me show you exactly why Tlaquepaque is so charming… it’s got endless photo spots.

There are bubbling fountains set peacefully around quiet corners. There’s a giant wheelbarrow overflowing with flowers that’s basically begging for a cheesy couple’s pose.

Tlaquepaque Arts And Shopping Village - Things To Do In Sedona, AZ — Why does it look like I’m on summer vacation in Portugal or Italy? Swoon!

The larger fountains? Perfect for a candid shot. The second-floor balconies? Straight out of a Romeo-and-Juliet fantasy. I half-expected someone to serenade us from below.

But Tlaquepaque isn’t just a pretty place to take pictures at—it’s got greenery, art, and a whole lot of shopping! With over 50 shops and galleries, you’ll find everything from funky Southwestern jewelry to hand-blown glass art.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast whose idea of a good time is hiking Sedona’s red rocks, you might not find much to buy here (unless you’re in the market for a $500 bronze sculpture of a cowboy). Things are pretty expensive.

With that said, if you’re in Sedona primarily for relaxation, art, and spirituality and came with a budget to stumble upon new statement pieces for your home, Tlaquepaque’s stores will be so up your alley.

I fell in the first camp, but the stores were still so fun to browse through! Two stores I enjoyed in particular:

El Picaflor: This place is a burst of color and culture, showcasing folk art from the Andes. Think alpaca garments, intricate patchwork art, and one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces for your home. They even have tapestries by Peruvian artist Maximo Laura and whimsical retablos (little wooden boxes filled with tiny figurines) by Nicario Jimenez.

Feliz Navidad Sedona: Yes, it’s one of those random Christmas stores, but this place is a treasure trove of handmade ornaments from around the world, including adorable Southwestern-themed decorations like mini leather moccasins and snowy saguaro cacti. They also carry traditional German wood creations. Too cute.

Oh, and if you haven’t booked a Pink Jeep Tour yet, there’s a kiosk right in Tlaquepaque where you can ask all your burning questions. (Spoiler: You gotta do it. The Broken Arrow tour is legendary.)

Here’s a full list of the stores at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village at the moment.

Feeling hungry? There are a few restaurants within the village. We didn’t eat here ourselves since we had dinner reservations at Hideaway House, but you can head to El Rincon to try “Arizona Style” Mexican cuisine–a blend of traditional Mexican and Native American Navajo influences.

Oh, and if you hear bells ringing, it’s probably a wedding at the Tlaquepaque Chapel. Yes, people get married here, and honestly, I get it. The place is ridiculously romantic.

During our visit, we saw a couple taking pre- or post-wedding photos here with their professional photographer. That alone should tell you how romantic and pretty this place is.

I’d say it’s 100% worth a visit during your trip to Sedona!

Practical Info for Your Visit

Hours: Most shops are open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, but restaurants like El Rincon stay open until 9 PM on weekends.
Directions:
- From Phoenix: Take I-17 North to Exit 298 (SR 179). Drive 15 miles, pass through 10 roundabouts (yes, 10), and Tlaquepaque will be on your left after crossing Oak Creek Bridge.
- From Flagstaff: Take AZ-89A South to SR 179. Follow the scenic route, and you’ll find Tlaquepaque just past Portal Lane.
Parking: Free parking is available in multiple lots, including one across the street at Tlaquepaque North. RVs and tour buses can park at the Portal Lane lot.