Visiting The Strawberry Inn is always magical, but it is even more special during the holiday season.
One of the most fabulous things about Arizona is the ability to drive just a few hours from the Valley to experience an entirely different climate and scenery. Strawberry is located less than two hours north of Phoenix and is on average 20 to 30 degrees cooler. In the winter, this means you can leave the mild Phoenix weather behind and escape to cooler temps, pine trees and maybe even a little snow in the majesty of Northern Arizona.
The Strawberry Inn, which includes both the iconic Inn on Highway 87, plus quaint cottages and airstreams around the corner on Fossil Creek Road, has adorned the properties with ample Christmas cheer. You’ll find garlands all over the Inn and miniature Christmas trees and holiday-themed pillows in each room — a loving and welcome touch.
In addition to the winter temperatures and festive decor, there is an abundance of holiday activities to do in and around the Strawberry area.
The Rusty Pinecone, just a few minutes south in the town of Pine, will host a “Santa’s Workshop” event every Saturday and Sunday (through Dec. 19) where you can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. You can take photos, and Santa’s helpers can assist young ones in picking out the perfect gift for their parents from the store (parents can provide a budget to stay within). There will also be free hot cocoa, miniature horse petting and pony rides, and on specific dates, you can catch a performance by the Singing Sisters.
If you want to really get in the holiday spirit, you can cut your own Christmas tree up in the Rim Country. You’ll need a permit with either the Tonto Natural Forest or the Coconino National Forest in order to do this. Permits are limited, as the forests want to protect their resources as much as possible, so be sure to secure this in advance.
Enjoy some festive treats and drinks at some of the local shops and restaurants. Located next to The Strawberry Inn, Windmill Coffee is serving up hot cocoa every day and some seasonal flavored lattes. Stop by Pine Creek Fudge Ice Cream & Espresso for some festive decor as well as seasonal flavored drinks and delectable, freshly-made fudge. Also in Pine, the lovely Randall House is bursting with character and offers a full menu of breakfast, lunch, and delicious homemade pies and cookies. You might get lucky enough to catch them when they are offering their signature maple pumpkin pie — an absolute must-try.
To learn more about The Strawberry Inn and to book your stay, visit TheStrawberryInn.com.