Schifferstadt Architectural Museum | Frederick

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a retail and arts complex located in Sedona, Arizona.

Visual Characteristics

The village is constructed primarily from adobe brick and stucco, with red tile roofs. Buildings are low-rise, typically one or two stories, and feature arched doorways and windows. Decorative ironwork is present on balconies and gates. The color palette consists of earthy tones, including terracotta, ochre, and cream, with accents of turquoise and cobalt blue.

Location & Access Logistics

Tlaquepaque is situated at 337 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86336. It is approximately 2 miles south of the Sedona city center. Parking is available on-site in a dedicated lot. Public transport options include the Sedona Shuttle, with a stop near the village entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The village was conceived and developed by George Johnson, opening in 1978. It was designed to resemble the traditional Mexican village of Tlaquepaque, Jalisco, a renowned center for arts and crafts. The architecture draws inspiration from Spanish colonial and Mexican vernacular styles.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can browse and purchase artwork from over 40 galleries and shops. Activities include viewing pottery, jewelry, paintings, and sculptures. Live music performances often occur in the central courtyard. Cooking classes are sometimes offered at specific venues within the village.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available throughout the complex. Shaded courtyards and covered walkways provide relief from the sun. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the village. Several restaurants and cafes are located on-site, offering food and beverages.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is late afternoon, approximately 1-2 hours before sunset, when the light casts warm tones on the adobe structures. The most pleasant months for visiting are March through May and September through November, avoiding the peak summer heat and winter cold. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A unique feature of Tlaquepaque is the "Chapel of the Holy Cross," a small chapel integrated into the natural rock formations of the surrounding landscape, accessible via a short walk from the main village area. It is said that the chapel was inspired by the cross shape formed by the surrounding red rocks.

Nearby Landmarks

• Chapel of the Holy Cross (0.3km Southwest)
• Sedona Arts Center (1.8km Northwest)
• Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive (2.5km North)
• Red Rock State Park (4.0km Southwest)