Uncover the Best Things to Do in Sedona for an Unforgettable Trip
Sedona is a fantastic spot to take a break from technology and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The area is renowned for its stunning landscapes of red sandstone formations that create a dramatically colorful landscape. These natural wonders afford many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and scenic drives, making it a popular tourist destination in Arizona.
Sedona is a popular spiritual destination with its many spas, healing centers, and the iconic Chapel of the Holy Cross. Visitors come here seeking the unique energy of the vortexes believed to have spirit-balancing powers. The area has attracted spiritualists for decades looking to connect with nature and find inner peace. Sedona is a special place known for its stunning night sky views, as it is a designated Dark Sky Community. The city serves as a great starting point for exploring the area and experiencing the beauty of the starry night. Get ready to explore some of the most enchanting attractions this area has to offer.
01 Cathedral Rock
The Cathedral Rock Trail is a popular 1.2-mile hike and the most photographed site in the Sedona area. This mountain is considered to be one of the most important energy vortexes in the area. You can get to the mountain on Highway 179, past Oak Creek Village. Make a left on Back O' Beyond Road. Take a left onto Back O' Beyond Road and continue for about a mile, going west. You'll spot the trailhead on your left side. You can drive to the Red Rock Crossing Site to take in the classic view of Cathedral Rock. Hikers interested in climbing Cathedral Rock can access a trail leading to the saddle section, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. You will need rock climbing equipment to reach the peak of Cathedral Rock.
02 Uptown Sedona
Uptown Sedona is a charming and historically significant area that offers a delightful experience for first-time visitors. Since it was home to early settlers in 1902, this area of town has held a special place in Sedona's history. Over time, it has evolved into the bustling center of town; the area now features restaurants, tourist shops, galleries, and boutiques. Uptown is a convenient place to base yourself if you are staying in Sedona, as you can easily walk to places to eat and shop. Parking in this area is limited during weekends, so booking a hotel ensures a guaranteed parking spot.
03 Red Rock scenic byway
The Red Rock Scenic Byway, also referred to as State Route 179, serves as the entrance to the renowned Red Rock Country of Sedona, Arizona. It is conveniently located 110 miles north of Phoenix, approximately 40 miles south of Flagstaff, and just a few hours south of the Grand Canyon. Moreover, it holds the distinction of being an All-American Road, a designation exclusive to the most scenic byways, and serves as a unique destination. Exploring the eight-mile-long highway offers opportunities to capture stunning photos at scenic pullouts or visit heritage sites to view ancient petroglyphs. The Village of Oak Creek's factory outlet center offers a serene shopping experience with fewer crowds, while the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a traditional Mexican community setting.
04 Eat your way through Sedona
Sedona is a prime destination for its scenic landscapes and artistic communities, but it's also quickly becoming a culinary destination in its own right. Sedona's dining scene has been revitalized by a group of innovative chefs who have introduced a fresh approach to cooking. They focus on using seasonal, gourmet recipes that incorporate locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors for any budget. When visiting Sedona, it's worth venturing beyond the popular dining spots to discover hidden gems. Along Highways 89A and 179, you'll find a variety of eateries waiting to be explored. To avoid long wait times, consider making reservations online for restaurants that tend to be busy.
05 Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Highway 89A, where you can marvel at stunning rock formations, towering cliffs, and lush forests on a scenic drive. Road 89A is a scenic, two-lane highway that winds its way through the stunning Oak Creek Canyon. A must-see stop along this route when traveling from Flagstaff to Sedona is the Oak Creek Vista, also referred to as the Overlook. As you continue your drive, you will descend through a series of winding curves, transitioning from the majestic Ponderosa Pine Forest to a lush environment filled with oak, sycamore, and walnut trees growing thick along the roadside. The gorge is a breathtaking outdoor destination with many stops and a variety of recreational activities like camping, fishing, picnicking, and swimming. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Oak Creek Canyon beyond just driving by, there are some fantastic hiking options to explore. Among these, the West Fork Trail stands out as a favorite among hikers of all levels due to its stunning views and varying levels of difficulty.
06 Devil's Bridge Trail
If you're a fan of hiking and photography, you absolutely can't miss out on the breathtaking beauty of Devils Bridge in Sedona, with panoramic views of the Red Rock mountains in the distance. This natural wonder, nestled within the Coconino National Forest, boasts the title of being the largest sandstone arch in the region. The hike to Devil's Bridge is considered moderate in difficulty and tends to be busy, especially during peak times. The trail spans about 4.2 miles round-trip, offering a relatively quick and rewarding outdoor adventure. To get to the Devil's Bridge Trailhead, it's essential to have a sturdy 4x4 vehicle for navigating the rugged terrain
07 Chapel of the Holy Cross
This is one of the most iconic sites in Sedona and a popular place to get married for couples who meet the requirements to marry in the Catholic Church. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a stunning architectural marvel perched on the majestic red rocks of Sedona, Arizona. The chapel was built in 1956, and its design was influenced by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a talented sculptor and student of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Staude worked alongside project architect Richard Hein and architect August K. Strotz to design this impressive and award-winning chapel. One of the most striking features of the chapel is a majestic 90-foot cross, which not only adds to the chapel's beauty but also provides essential structural support.
08 Hiking in Sedona
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Sedona region, and people travel from all over the United States to hike through the stunning scenery. Explore the captivating canyon hikes that feature flat trails surrounded by towering cliffs, providing a unique and immersive outdoor experience for adventure enthusiasts. Most hikes are under three miles, suitable for all levels of hikers to enjoy the stunning scenery. However, there are some hiking trails that are more difficult and span multiple days for those wanting to push themselves and escape from the crowds.
09 Tour Sedona in a Jeep
Uptown Sedona offers a variety of Jeep tour operators, ensuring you can find the ideal tour to meet your specific needs. The tour guides are experts in the local area and love sharing fascinating stories about the region's geology and history. They're not only informative but also entertaining, offering insights into the cultures, ecology, and natural beauty of the surrounding areas. Also, the open-air Jeeps allow visitors to access remote and rugged areas that are inaccessible by regular vehicles, providing a unique and adventurous experience. Be prepared for a bumpy but fun ride into the wilderness.
10 Chakra Vortex Tours
Sedona is known to some for harnessing some of Earth's most intense spiritual energies. Chakra vortexes are specific sites that can help you connect with your deeper self and nature or balance your chakra energies. Join a guided Vortex Tour in Sedona to explore the fascinating science of metaphysics or to experience spiritual insights from a Native American perspective. A guide can customize your visit to accommodate your physical abilities and interests based on their spiritual guidance.
11 Bell Rock trail
Bell Rock is just south of Sedona, near the village of Oak Creek. It is a well-known and iconic red rock formation in Sedona, attracting visitors from around the globe who come to experience its powerful energy, as it is considered the largest vortex in the region. Additionally, this bell-shaped rock formation is a popular stop for tourists to take photographs and explore the area around the rock. The trail is a 2.8-mile round trip, but feel free to turn back whenever you'd like to make the hike shorter.
12 Boynton Canyon
One of the top attractions at Boynton Canyon is the scenic 6.1-mile Boynton Canyon Trail, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. The trail offers a diverse landscape with beautiful pine trees and shrubs, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. There's a special spot along the trail where you can feel a unique energy vortex, and it's conveniently located at the beginning of the trail, so no hiking or climbing is needed to experience it. For those who prefer not to hike or visit the energy vortex, they can instead visit the Enchantment Resort for a relaxing alternative. This luxury resort is a great place to stay, but you can just go there to enjoy a meal at one of their excellent restaurants that offer views over the canyon.
13 Grand Canyon day trip
The Grand Canyon is a geological wonder that was created over millions of years as the Colorado River carved out a deep canyon through layers of vibrant red rock. If you're visiting Sedona, don't miss the chance to explore the iconic Grand Canyon, just a 2.5-hour drive away. Whether you prefer a self-drive adventure or a guided tour, there are options to suit your style. Opting for a guided tour means you can sit back and enjoy the stunning views as your guide takes you to the best spots. For an extra-special experience, consider upgrading to include a thrilling helicopter flight over the canyon.
14 Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park is a popular destination during the summer, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the refreshing experience of swimming in a series of small rock pools. Oak Creek features small waterfalls that form a natural water slide, providing a fun and unique experience for visitors. The algae on the sandstone slide makes it slippery, adding to the fun but making it tricky to get out of the water. To stay safe and avoid any accidents, it's recommended to wear water shoes or sneakers with good traction.
15 Sedona UFO and Vortex Tour
If you're looking for a unique way to experience Sedona's natural beauty, consider taking the Sedona UFO & Vortex Tour. The tour company offers a variety of experiences to cater to your interests, from meditation retreats to vortex and food tours. You can customize your visit to suit your preferences. For a unique adventure, consider joining the Ghost Tour at Sedona's oldest cemetery or the enchanting UFO Tour after sunset. With our Generation 3 Military Night Vision Goggles, you can enjoy breathtaking stargazing under the starry night skies and UFO sightings.
16 Hike or bike the 400+ miles of trails
Sedona is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting over 400 miles of trails that wind through its stunning landscape. There are trails available for both experienced hikers seeking a challenge and casual bikers looking for a leisurely ride. As you navigate the trails, you will encounter breathtaking views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations and lush vegetation. Don't forget to pack your camera to capture the beauty!
17 Take a pottery class at Sedona Arts Center
Unleash your inner artist at the Sedona Arts Center, a vibrant hub for creativity in the heart of red rock country. The center offers pottery classes for all skill levels, providing a unique opportunity to learn from experienced artists. Creating art with clay in Sedona allows you to engage with the vibrant arts community while expressing your creativity.
18 Go fishing in Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon is a beautiful small stream surrounded by tall cliffs and lush forests, making it a perfect spot for people who love fishing. The crystal-clear waters of Oak Creek are home to plenty of trout, making it an ideal spot for both fly fishing and traditional fishing. Experience the peaceful beauty of nature while fishing in this serene creek, offering a tranquil escape from the busy routines of daily life.
19 Visit Verde Valley Archaeology Center in Camp Verde
The Verde Valley Archaeology Center was established in downtown Camp Verde to preserve the heritage of the ancient people who once inhabited the valley. The center houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region's past. If you're someone who loves history or just enjoys learning about the past, a trip to the Verde Valley Archaeology Center is a captivating experience that will take you on a journey through different time periods.
20 Explore new artists during 1st Friday in The Galleries
Immerse yourself in Sedona's vibrant art scene by attending a 1st Friday event. As you stroll through the town's fine art galleries, you will discover a diverse array of artwork, from contemporary paintings to traditional sculptures. Each gallery offers a unique perspective, reflecting the creativity and talent of Sedona's artists. It's a cultural feast not to be missed!
21 Relax at the Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park
Are you looking forward to immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and finding moments of peace and contemplation? You can visit the serene Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park in Sedona, a haven for spiritual exploration. This outdoor sanctuary welcomes visitors of all beliefs for prayer, meditation, and inner reflection. Explore the park's Buddhist stupas, a Native American medicine wheel, and a beautiful wooden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. The park is open daily, and entry is free, supported by generous donations from visitors.
22 Visit the V Bar V Cultural Site
The V Bar V Cultural Site provides a fascinating look into the vibrant history and culture of the Southern Sinagua people from ancient times. One of the main attractions on the site is a large and well-preserved petroglyph panel you will ever see in the region, making it a must-see for enthusiasts interested in ancient rock art. These ancient rock carvings offer a glimpse into the life and beliefs of the Sinagua people, making your visit to the V Bar V Cultural Site a truly enlightening experience.
23 Enjoy electric bike tours
Discover the beauty of Sedona at your own pace with an electric bike tour. These tours allow you to explore the town's scenic routes without the strain of traditional biking. As you pedal through Sedona's picturesque streets and trails, you'll be able to take in the stunning views and stop at your leisure, making the electric bike tour a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
24 Shop and dine at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a unique destination known for its traditional charm and lively ambiance, providing visitors with a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience. This charming village is home to a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Exploring the charming cobblestone streets offers opportunities to discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs, appreciate local artistry, and indulge in delectable cuisine.
25 Float sky-high during sunrise in a hot air balloon
For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies in a hot-air balloon. Hot air ballooning in Sedona offers a breathtaking and unique way to admire the beauty of the Red Rock Sedona. The experience of floating high above the ground provides unparalleled views of the stunning landscape, allowing you to witness the vibrant colors of the red rock formations in a peaceful and serene manner, making it a must-do activity for any visitor.
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