The Top 25 Attractions in Sedona
Sedona is one of the most visually stunning destinations in the United States. The area is known as a spiritual center with a number of energy vortexes in the surrounding hills and valleys. Attractions in the area range from hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and scenic drives to architecture and spiritual retreats. This is a designated Dark Sky Community and the number of stars that are visible at night is truly spectacular. Use the city of Sedona as a base and explore all that this unique area has to offer.
01Â Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock is the most photographed site in the Sedona area. You can reach the mountain on Highway 179, or you can drive to Red Rock Crossing Site to take in the classic view of Cathedral Rock. Those wanting to climb Cathedral Rock will find a hiking trail that leads up to the saddle section and provides incredible views of the area. You will need rock climbing equipment to reach the peak of Cathedral rock. This mountain is considered to be one of the most important energy vortexes in the area.
02Â Uptown Sedona
The Uptown Sedona section of the city is the old part of town where you will find restaurants, tourist shops, galleries, and boutiques. This 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 is fairly full here on weekends and staying in a hotel will guarantee you a parking spot.
03Â Red Rock scenic byway
The Red Rock Scenic Byway is your introduction to Sedona's gorgeous Red Rock Country. It's also an All-American Road, a designation reserved only for the most scenic of byways, and a destination unto itself. Stop at scenic pullouts along the eight-mile-long highway for some impressive photos, or walk to a heritage site to see ancient petroglyphs. The factory outlet center in the Village Of Oak Creek is a less-crowded shopping district, while the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village transports you to a traditional Mexican community.
04Â 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. A new generation of chefs helped transform Sedona's dining culture with seasonal, gourmet recipes, locally-sourced ingredients, and bold flavors for any budget. You'll find most eateries along Highways 89A and 179. Make reservations online for restaurants with the longest wait times, and take some dessert to go.
05Â Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
Take a scenic drive through the dramatic rock formations, towering cliffs, and deep forests along Highway 89A. The road follows Oak Creek before dramatically climbing out of the canyon on a twisting path with switchbacks. Narrow sections of road and steep drops mean that you will probably want to drive this road during the daytime. There are a number of spectacular hikes including the West Fork Trail.
06Â Devil's Bridge Trail
Devil's Bridge Rock is a stunning, natural sandstone bridge that spans 45 feet to a sheer drop. The trail to get there is a winding hike through beautiful desert scenery and short sections of the Coconino National Forest, with panoramic views of the red rock mountains in the distance. Unless you have a 4x4 vehicle, expect the journey to total about five miles round trip. A photo of you standing on Devil's Bridge, however, is worth the trouble.
07Â Chapel of the Holy Cross
This is one of the most iconic sites in Sedona and is a popular place to get married. The chapel sits perched on a small plateau of red rock halfway up a dramatic cliff. The building was constructed in 1956 by a pupil of the famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. A 90-foot cross dominates the glass front of the chapel.
08Â 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 of the region. Canyon hikes offer relatively flat trails with the cliffs towering high above you. The majority of the hikes are less than three miles long making it possible for most people to enjoy a hike in the area. There are a few challenging multi-day hikes for those wanting to push themselves and to escape from the crowds.
09Â Jeep tour of Sedona
A number of Jeep Tour operators can be found in Uptown Sedona, and you should be able to find the perfect tour to suit your needs. The open-air Jeeps can take visitors to areas that can't be explored with a normal vehicle. Be prepared for a bumpy but fun ride into the wilderness. The drivers are very knowledgeable about the area and will share stories along the way about the Geology and History of the region.
10Â Chakra Vortex Tours
Sedona is known to some for harnessing some of Earth's most intense spiritual energies. Specific sites are called chakra vortexes, and visiting them can help you connect with your deeper self and nature or to balance your chakra energies. Reserve a spot on a guided Vortex Tour to learn more about the science behind metaphysics or to gain an Indigenous perspective of Sedona's spirituality. A guide can customize your visit to accommodate your physical abilities and interests based on their spiritual guidance.
11Â Bell Rock
Bell Rock is just South of Sedona, near the village of Oak Creek. This Bell-shaped rock formation is a popular stop for tourists to take photographs and explore the area around the rock. You can walk around the base of the rock or scramble up the sides for a short distance. A fun mountain bike trail starts at the base of the rock.
12Â Boynton Canyon
The number one reason to visit Boynton Canyon is to hike the 6.1-mile in-and-out Boynton Canyon Trail. Hike through the canyon to enjoy a mix of vegetation such as large pine trees and shrubland. There is an energy vortex near the start of the trail, and it is the easiest energy vortex to reach as it doesn't require hiking or climbing. Those that don't want to hike or go to the energy vortex can head to the Enchantment Resort. 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.
13Â Grand Canyon day trip
The Grand Canyon is a 2.5-hour drive from Sedona. Take a day trip to experience one of the most famous sites in the United States. You can drive by yourself or take a guided tour to the Grand Canyon. A guided tour allows you to sit back and relax while the guide takes you to the best viewpoints of the Grand Canyon. You can upgrade your tour to include a helicopter flight over the canyon.
14Â Slide Rock State Park
People flock to Slide Rock State Park in the summer months to cool off in the series of small rock pools. Oak Creek flows over small waterfalls which create a natural water slide. Take care as the rock is hard and you can easily get a few bumps and bruises along the way.
15Â Sedona UFO and Vortex Tour
If you're hoping to explore Sedona's natural beauty more unconventionally, head for Sedona UFO & Vortex Tour. From Meditation Retreats to Vortex and Food Tours, you can tailor your experience of Sedona to favor your unique interests. Wait until after sunset to join the Ghost Tour at the oldest cemetery in Sedona or the magical UFO Tour. Starry night skies combined with military-grade night vision goggles guarantees phenomenal stargazing — and maybe even a UFO sighting.
16Â 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. Whether you're an experienced hiker looking for a challenging trek or a casual biker seeking a leisurely ride, there's a trail for you. As you navigate the trails, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations and lush vegetation. Don't forget to pack your camera!
17Â 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. As you shape and mold your clay, you'll not only create a beautiful piece of art but also immerse yourself in Sedona's thriving arts scene.
18Â Go fishing in Oak Creek Canyon
Nestled amidst towering cliffs and verdant forests, Oak Creek Canyon is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters of Oak Creek are teeming with trout, making it an ideal spot for both fly fishing and traditional fishing. As you cast your line in the serene creek, you'll be surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
19Â Visit Verde Valley Archaeology Center in Camp Verde:
Step back in time at the Verde Valley Archaeology Center, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the Verde Valley's indigenous peoples. The center houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region's past. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, a visit to the Verde Valley Archaeology Center is a fascinating journey through time.
20Â Tour Fine-Art Galleries at 1st Friday evening in the Galleries
Experience the pulse of Sedona's art scene at the 1st Friday Evening in the Galleries event. As you stroll through the town's fine-art galleries, you'll 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!
21Â Test your agility at the Bike Skills Park
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Bike Skills Park offers an exciting challenge. The park features a variety of obstacles and tracks designed to test your biking skills. Whether you're a seasoned biker aiming to improve your technique or a beginner looking to learn, the Bike Skills Park provides a fun and safe environment to push your limits.
22Â Visit V Bar V Cultural Site
The V Bar V Cultural Site is a window into the ancient world of the Southern Sinagua people. As you explore the site, you'll come across one of the largest and most well-preserved petroglyph panels in the region. 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.
23Â 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.
24Â Shop and dine at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a treasure trove of unique finds. This charming village is home to a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you can shop for unique souvenirs, admire local artwork, and savor delicious cuisine. With its old-world charm and vibrant atmosphere, Tlaquepaque offers a shopping and dining experience like no other.
25Â Float sky-high during sunrise in a hot air balloon
For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies in a hot air balloon. As the sun begins to rise, you'll ascend above Sedona's red rock formations, witnessing the landscape come alive with color. This peaceful and exhilarating journey offers a bird's eye view of Sedona's stunning scenery, making it a must-do for any visitor.
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