I’ll always remember the primary time I visited Sedona. My first sight of the crimson rocks set in opposition to the intense blue sky took my breath away. In addition to being one of many most beautiful places in the United States, there are additionally countless issues to do in Sedona which makes it the proper trip spot.
Tasty eating places, distinctive purchasing, outside adventures, and breathtaking surroundings are only a few issues that the town has to supply. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a spot to go to for a romantic getaway, a visit with mates, or a household trip, Sedona is the place for you. This is without doubt one of the best places to visit in Arizona!
After my first go to to Sedona, I by no means thought I’d reside simply 2 hours away from it. Now I escape to the crimson rocks, blue sky, and hiking trails anytime I can. Each time I go to I discover one thing new to take action I promise you gained’t run out of the enjoyable issues to do in Sedona.
Finest Issues To Do in Sedona
You’ll be able to’t go incorrect by choosing any one in all these 15 actions in Sedona. Whether or not you need an outside journey, a day crammed with lovely views, or scrumptious meals and wine, Sedona will certainly have one thing for you.
1. Take a Jeep Tour
Should you’re on the lookout for the proper approach to discover the long-lasting Crimson Rocks, I extremely advocate you head out on this jeep tour. The two-hour expertise begins proper in Sedona and heads out towards Dry Creek Basin. An off-road jeep tour may simply be one of the best factor to do in Sedona.
Alongside the way in which, be ready to be taught from the information in regards to the well-known crimson rock and soak up a surprising sundown from the backroads. That is a tremendous factor to do in Sedona for households, mates, or anybody trying to get off the overwhelmed path. Find out more here.
Handle: 35 Southwest Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336. Click here for directions.
2. Chapel of the Holy Cross
I’ll always remember driving into Sedona the very first time and looking the window to see the Chapel of the Holy Cross. The gorgeous structure mixed with the crimson rocks is bound to go away you fairly speechless, simply because it left me.
The Roman Catholic Chapel, completed in 1956, is one in all Sedona’s high sights and is a non secular and peaceable place to go to. Visiting the chapel is free and it’s open from 9 am – 5 pm seven days every week. Try their website to be taught extra in regards to the historical past and when to go to.
Handle: 780 Chapel Rd., Sedona, AZ 86336. Click here for directions.
3. Spend the Day at Slide Rock State Park
Should you’re on the lookout for issues to do in Sedona in the summertime, put Slide Rock State Park on the high of your record. Dwelling to a number of pure rock waterslides, this state park is the proper place to chill off and hang around among the many gorgeous desert panorama.
My favourite time to go to slide rock is late within the afternoon after I’ve completed an extended hike within the space. There’s nothing extra refreshing than sliding down into the cool water.
Slide Rock is liked by many individuals so be ready for it to be busy – particularly in the summertime months. The park hours and entry payment data is offered on their website. You should definitely verify that out earlier than you go to.
Handle: Arizona 86336. Click here for directions.
4. Sights, Historical past, and Buying
Certainly one of my favourite issues about Sedona is that it is stuffed with historical past, thriller, and sweetness. If you wish to soak up all of those components, this sights, history, and shopping tour is ideal for you.
Over 5.5 hours, you’ll cease at 6 iconic spots in Sedona and luxuriate in scrumptious meals, distinctive purchasing, and wealthy history-all whereas touring round in an open-air automobile. Should you’re questioning what to see in Sedona, e-book this tour and also you’ll get to immerse your self in lots of the greatest issues to see in simply half a day. Find out more here.
Handle: 2370 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336. Click here for directions.
5. Guided ATV Tour
An ATV tour is one of the best ways to actually expertise the rugged crimson rocks of Sedona. Spend three hours exploring 30 miles of western Sedona – together with climbing up Skeleton Bone Mountain. Alongside the way in which, your information will level out places which have been featured in over 40 Hollywood movies.
Based mostly on the age and talent degree of your group, the information will customise the path to greatest swimsuit everybody. Be ready with water, sun shades, your digital camera, lengthy pants, and closed-toe footwear.
I’ve been to Sedona numerous instances, however after I took this tour, I received a complete new perspective on the panorama and sweetness that I’d by no means had earlier than. Anticipate an exciting journey that you just gained’t overlook! Learn more here.
Handle: 3075 AZ-89A #3075, Sedona, AZ 86336. Click here for directions.
6. Discover the Meals Scene
Sedona could also be most well-known for its crimson rock panorama however don’t make the error of overlooking its scrumptious meals scene. Every time I go to I stay up for trying out a brand new restaurant.
For meals impressed by Oaxaca, Veracruz, Puebla, and Arizona, go to Elote Cafe. Ensure to benefit from the Mexican chocolate pie.
For scrumptious American meals go to The Hudson. This one is my private favourite due to its spinach and artichoke dip and the outside patio that provides a number of the greatest views of Sedona.
Scrumptious do-it-yourself pizza in a tree-house-like restaurant. What extra may you need? Make time to go to the Hideaway House to get pleasure from this distinctive expertise.
Handle: Elote Cafe: 350 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336. The Hudson: 671 AZ-179 ste d, Sedona, AZ 86336. Hideaway Home: 231 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336.
7. Verde Canyon Railroad Journey
Should you’re on the lookout for issues to do close to Sedona, this Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure is the proper exercise so as to add to your journey itinerary. Spend 4 hours using in a classic or open-air automobile and wind via the wilderness of Southwest America.
Alongside the way in which, you’ll see historic cliff dwellings, historic mining websites, and the Verde River. This exercise is good for individuals of all ages and is very nice for households.
What higher means to absorb the fantastic thing about Verde Canyon than from the railroad? Click here to search out out extra and e-book your journey.
Handle: 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324. Click here for directions.
8. Vortex Yoga Mountain climbing
Sedona is thought to be a very non secular place and a few even imagine it’s residence to many alternative vortexes. If this sounds intriguing to you, think about spending 3.5 hours on this vortex yoga hiking tour; stress-free and unwinding in one of the crucial lovely locations within the nation.
The tour consists of climbing within the vortex areas, yoga, and guided meditation. Come ready with water, a digital camera, sunscreen, and an open coronary heart and thoughts. This is without doubt one of the extra distinctive issues to do in Sedona. Click here for details.
Handle: The assembly location is finalized upon booking the tour.
9. Go on a Hike
My favourite approach to discover Sedona is by foot on any of the numerous climbing trails. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a 1-mile hike or a 10-mile hike, Sedona has one thing to supply. Plus, it is a nice choice for these on the lookout for free issues to do in Sedona.
For probably the most iconic vacation spot and excellent image alternatives, hike to Devil’s Bridge. For sweeping views and a fast climb, scramble up Cathedral Rock. Should you’re on the lookout for a problem with a number of elevation achieve and views over the whole valley, climb up Wilson Mountain. And at last, for a sizzling summer season day, hike West Fork Trail and benefit from the creek the whole means.
I’ve lived in Arizona for 3 years and my favourite trails within the state are all situated in Sedona. Be ready with loads of water and good footwear to traverse the crimson rocks. Click here to see extra hikes in Sedona on All Trails.
Handle: Devil’s Bridge Trailhead – Cathedral Rock Trailhead – Wilson Mountain Trailhead – West Fork Trail Trailhead
10. Be part of a Vineyard Tour
It might shock you to know that Sedona and its surrounding space are residence to many lovely wineries. On this tour, you possibly can spend the day visiting as much as 4 totally different wineries together with Dancing Apache, Javelina Leap, and Oak Creek Winery.
This highly-reviewed tour is ideal for many who need to see lovely vineyards and style scrumptious wine with out having to search out the locations alone and drive in between. A personalised charcuterie board for lunch is included within the tour, in addition to some reductions on tastings and bottles of wine to take residence. Discover out extra and e-book your wine tour here.
Handle: 100 Verde Valley Faculty Rd, Sedona, AZ 86351. Click here for directions.
11. Day Journey to the Grand Canyon
Not solely are there numerous issues to do in Sedona itself, however there’s additionally lots to discover within the surrounding space. In your subsequent go to to Sedona, it’s a should that you just book this tour and take an intimate day journey to the Grand Canyon. I promise you, watching the sundown sweep throughout the expansive and delightful canyon shall be one thing you’ll keep in mind eternally.
This tour has a lot to supply: a educated information who narrates historical past and data alongside the way in which, a cease at Cameron Buying and selling Submit to expertise Native American craftsmanship, a cease at Desert View Watchtower, a second to look at the sundown, and a complimentary dinner. Book your trip here.
Handle: Choose-up location finalized after reserving.
12. Go Mountain Biking
There are such a lot of methods to discover the fantastic thing about Sedona; by foot, in an ATV, in a jeep, or on a mountain bike. Mountain biking in Sedona is exclusive as a result of there aren’t many different locations on the earth that may evaluate to the panorama.
Even in the event you don’t personal your personal mountain bike, otherwise you flew in with out your bike, don’t fear. You’ll be able to lease bikes from Thunder Mountain Bikes and select to discover one of many 5 major mountain biking areas: Village of Oak Creek, Dry Creek, Adobe Jack, Damaged Arrow, or Carroll Canyon.
Earlier than you head out, know that almost all trails are multi-use; which means you’ll doubtless encounter individuals climbing the identical trails. Be aware of your talent degree as most trails vary from intermediate to skilled.
Handle: 1695 W. State Route 89A Sedona, AZ 86336. Click here for directions.
13. Fish in Oak Creek Canyon
Seize your fly rod and head to Oak Creek Canyon to attempt to catch some brown trout, Gila trout, or rainbow trout. That is one in all my absolute favourite issues to do in Sedona.
Oak Creek is a superb fishing location in the event you’re on the lookout for a small stream. This type of water requires some finesse fishing and provides the chance to follow some totally different abilities and techniques.
Ensure to buy a fishing license forward of time and follow the catch and launch part. This space is between the Hwy 89A Bridge crossing at Slide Rock State Park and upstream to the AGFD Sterling Springs Fish Hatchery property boundary.
Handle: N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336. Click here for directions.
14. UFO and Stargazing Tour
Should you’re on the lookout for unforgettable methods to spend a night in Sedona, this UFO and stargazing tour is the proper factor to do in Sedona at evening. Spend an hour observing the evening sky in a means you by no means have earlier than. Your educated information will assist level out secrets and techniques overhead, and clarify issues to you as you monitor unidentified objects up above.
This tour is nice for these within the evening sky and open to studying new issues. Be ready with heat garments, snacks, and drinks. Find out more and book here.
Handle: The assembly location is finalized as soon as the tour is booked.
15. Be part of an E-bike tour
Should you’re eager to see lots of Sedona’s sights at your personal tempo, this self-guided e-bike tour is ideal for you. A workers individual will get you fitted with the proper bike and kit, and you then’re free to discover the crimson rocks and purchasing of Sedona at leisure.
The tour takes you to a number of the most iconic spots; equivalent to Bell Rocks, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock, and the Tlaquepaque Arts & Buying Village. Top-of-the-line elements of exploring the town on an e-bike is that you just don’t should battle for parking within the extra common areas.
Benefit from the comfort and the fantastic thing about exploring Sedona by e-bike. Click here to e-book this highly-rated e-bike journey.
Handle: 235 N State Rte 89A 235 n, Sedona, AZ 86336. Click here for directions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Sedona
Whether or not you solely have at some point or seven in Sedona, there are many methods you possibly can replenish your time to see as a lot as doable. Listed below are a number of options of how one can greatest plan your subsequent journey:
1 Day in Sedona Itinerary
To start out the day, head out on an 8 am Red Rock Jeep Tour. That is the proper approach to get out and discover the crimson rock as quickly because the day begins. After your jeep tour, drive quarter-hour to the south aspect of city to the Chapel of the Holy Cross to loosen up and take within the majestic magnificence earlier than you.
For the remainder of the afternoon, head throughout the highway from the Chapel of the Holy Cross to hike as much as Cathedral Rock. Subsequent, head 25 minutes north to Slide Rock State Park to chill off and unwind in Oak Creek Canyon. End the time without work again within the middle of city and luxuriate in dinner at The Hudson.
2-3 Days in Sedona Itinerary
Day 1: Day one within the metropolis is for adventuring and taking within the crimson rocks. Spend the morning on a guided ATV tour of the Sedona trails. After exploring the paths, clean up and head into city to buy within the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. After a day of purchasing, have your reservation able to get pleasure from dinner at Elote Cafe (eating is by reservation solely).
Day 2: Day two will begin with an early morning hike to Devil’s Bridge – this fashion you’ll beat the warmth and the crowds. After your trek, get again into city and provides your legs a relaxation throughout a day on the Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure.
Day 3: Your closing day in Sedona will begin by touring native vineyards and wineries on the Sedona winery tour. After the tour, spend the remainder of the day stress-free by Oak Creek, fly fishing for brown and rainbow trout.
1 Week in Sedona Itinerary
In your first day in Sedona, take it simple by merely having fun with the various sights and sounds. Should you’re on the lookout for a calming approach to begin the journey, e-book the Vortex yoga hiking tour and spend 3.5 hours appreciating your environment. Days two and three are for outside adventures. Spend the second day exploring by taking the Red Rock West Jeep Tour. Be at liberty to step it up a notch and discover the crimson rocks on ATVs to your third day of exercise.
Days 4 and 5 are for exploring the encircling space. First, take a day trip to the Grand Canyon for brand new lovely sights and a spectacular sundown dinner. On day 5, hop on the Verde Canyon Railroad to discover the fantastic thing about Verde Canyon.
On day six, keep native to Sedona and hit the foremost landmarks such because the Chapel of the Holy Cross and Cathedral Rock on a self-guided e-bike tour. That evening, get pleasure from a slice of Sedona and a few do-it-yourself pizza on the Hideaway House.
Use day seven to both spend the morning mountain biking or exploring the paths on foot-like climbing to Devil’s Bridge. Within the afternoon of your closing day, cool off by hanging out at Slide Rock State Park.
The place to Keep in Sedona
These are a number of of one of the best neighborhoods in Sedona for vacationers:
Uptown Sedona – Finest for NightLife
Uptown Sedona is greatest for many who are eager to be near the city’s exercise, retailers, and eating places. This space is tremendous walkable and sometimes busy within the excessive seasons so it has a high-energy vibe. Past the various retailers and eating places, Uptown can be residence to the Sedona Heritage Museum.
Click here for extra data on a Best Western Plus situated within the Uptown Sedona space.
West Sedona – Finest for First-Time Guests
Though West Sedona is barely 3 miles from Uptown, it provides a distinct vibe due to its many native breweries, espresso retailers, farmers’ markets, and artwork galleries. I counsel this space for first-time guests since you’ll nonetheless be near the town’s exercise, however can get pleasure from a extra artsy and distinctive power.
Click here to e-book the Wilde Resort and Spa in West Sedona.
Oak Creek – Finest for Households
Oak Creek is situated 7 miles south of Sedona and is a peaceable and rejuvenating space overflowing with magnificence. If you wish to expertise being out in nature, I extremely counsel basing your self right here as the realm is near all the exercise of Sedona, but surrounded by the distinctive parks and eating places of Oak Creek.
Click here to search out out about Element Sedona within the Village of Oak Creek.
Finest Eating places in Sedona
Not solely is Sedona identified for its magnificence and outside adventures, but it surely’s additionally residence to many beautiful eating places.
Elote Cafe
Elote Cafe is an upscale Mexican restaurant that’s a must-visit for any foodie when in Sedona. Ensure to plan forward because it’s eating is by reservation solely and is commonly booked up a month upfront. To start out, order their signature road corn-inspired dip, “Elote”, and observe it up with braised brisket enchiladas. For dessert don’t miss out on Mexican Chocolate Pie.
The Hideaway Home
The Hideaway House is liked by locals and guests alike. Not solely does this restaurant have scrumptious pizza, but it surely additionally has three outside patios that overlook the crimson rocks of Sedona. Ensure to order their roasted peach, caramelized onion, and pancetta pizza. The restaurant is kind of reasonably priced contemplating the extent of food-with entrees costing round $25-$30.
SaltRock Kitchen
The SaltRock Kitchen is situated within the Amara Resort and Spa and is the proper place to flee for completely satisfied hour drinks and appetizers. Don’t go away with out tasting one in all their signature margaritas, roasted corn dip, or brief rib tacos. The meals and drinks are completely accompanied by views of the crimson rocks of Sedons from their outside patio.
The Hudson
If I had to decide on my favourite restaurant in Sedona, it must be The Hudson. This restaurant is a basic American eatery with a Southwestern flare. Ensure to start out dinner with the spinach and artichoke dip, or bruschetta, and observe it up with the mushroom burger or BBQ braised pork tacos. The eating room has an open and enjoyable vibe and also you even have the choice to take a seat open air on their patio that overlooks Sedona.
Pump Home Station City Eatery and Market
If you would like tasty meals in a phenomenal location, Pump House Station should make it onto your record. This rustic A-frame restaurant surrounded by timber and set on the creek, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They’re most well-known for his or her city burrito and smoked salmon benedict for breakfast, and their heat do-it-yourself sandwiches for lunch.
Attending to Sedona
The easiest way to get to Sedona is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor airport, lease a automobile, and drive 2 hours north to Sedona. Alternatively, there’s a small airport in Flagstaff, AZ which is barely 40 minutes from Sedona however is more likely to have fewer flight choices.
Should you desire to journey by prepare, the Amtrak passes via Flagstaff, AZ. From there, you might lease a automobile and make the 40-minute drive right down to Sedona.
The easiest way to get round Sedona itself is by automobile. There’s a neighborhood shuttle that provides rides to and from the favored climbing trails. The downtown space can be very walkable.
Nonetheless, in the event you’re eager to get to Sedona to and from the airport, and intend to take day journeys to locations close by, I counsel renting a automobile. Click here to seek for one of the best offers on rental vehicles in Sedona.
Issues To Do in Sedona: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Sedona:
Sedona is thought for its iconic crimson rocks and the outside adventures that include the panorama. It’s additionally identified for its non secular power.
One of the best time to go to Sedona is March via Could when the flowers are blooming and the temperatures are decrease. Between September and November can be a good time to go to.
Sedona is completely price visiting. There’s quite a lot of issues to take action it’s good for romantic couple getaways, household holidays, or good friend journeys.
With a view to get the entire expertise of Sedona, it’s best to spend not less than 3 days there.
Sedona is thought to be a really safe place to go to and stroll round in. Nonetheless, take the standard precautions and use frequent sense as you’ll when touring to some other vacation spot.
The preferred factor to do in Sedona is the hike as much as Cathedral Rock.
It is best to strive the pizza at Hideaway Home, the lamb adobo at Elote Cafe, and Spinach and Artichoke Dip on the Hudson.
In Closing
In abstract, there are numerous issues to do and locations to go to in Sedona. I by no means remorse any time I spend in Sedona and I at all times go away feeling refreshed and impressed. With quite a lot of issues to do – from ATV rides, to wine tasting, to a day journey to the Grand Canyon – you possibly can’t go incorrect with including Sedona to your bucket record of places to visit in the USA.
