Sedona – Best Things To Do

Nestled among stunning red rock formations, Sedona is a magical destination in Arizona that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and spiritual energy. This charming town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation opportunities.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, art lover, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Sedona has something special waiting for you.

1. Hike Cathedral Rock Trail

Ready for a breathtaking adventure? Cathedral Rock Trail offers one of the most iconic views in Sedona. This moderately challenging 1.2-mile round trip hike rewards your efforts with panoramic vistas that will leave you speechless.

The trail involves some scrambling over smooth rock faces, so wear proper footwear with good grip. Once you reach the saddle points between the massive red rock spires, you’ll understand why this is considered a vortex site by many spiritual seekers.

Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the best lighting for photos and help you avoid the midday heat. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and take moments to pause and appreciate the magnificent landscape surrounding you.

2. Explore Oak Creek Canyon

Just north of Sedona lies a natural wonderland that rivals the Grand Canyon in beauty but offers a more intimate experience. Oak Creek Canyon features a stunning river gorge with towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters that create perfect swimming holes during warmer months.

Driving the scenic byway through the canyon reveals breathtaking vistas at every turn. Stop at Oak Creek Vista Point for a spectacular overview before descending into this natural paradise.

Numerous hiking trails like West Fork offer shade and water features rare in Arizona. During fall, the canyon explodes with vibrant colors as deciduous trees change their leaves, creating a photographer’s dream landscape against the red rock backdrop.

3. Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross

Perched dramatically between massive red rock formations, this architectural marvel seems to grow organically from the rugged landscape. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, built in 1956, represents a perfect harmony between human creativity and natural beauty.

Inside, simplicity reigns supreme with minimal decoration allowing the panoramic views through the floor-to-ceiling windows to become the focal point. Many visitors report feeling a profound sense of peace regardless of their religious background.

The approach to the chapel offers increasingly impressive views of the structure and surrounding landscape. While the chapel itself can be explored in about 20 minutes, you’ll want extra time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and take photos from various vantage points.

4. Take a Pink Jeep Tour

Hang on tight for an unforgettable adventure! Pink Jeep Tours have become an iconic Sedona experience, taking visitors to breathtaking vistas and rugged terrain that would otherwise be inaccessible to most travelers.

These customized vehicles, painted in their signature bright pink color, are instantly recognizable throughout Sedona. Professional drivers double as knowledgeable guides, sharing fascinating information about geology, history, and local legends while navigating challenging trails.

Popular routes include Broken Arrow, Ancient Ruins, and Diamondback Gulch. Each tour offers different highlights, from heart-pounding descents down the “Road of No Return” to ancient cliff dwellings. Book in advance, especially during peak season, as these tours fill up quickly.

5. Stargaze at Night

When darkness falls over the desert, Sedona transforms into an astronomical wonderland. As an International Dark Sky Community, the town maintains strict lighting regulations that preserve exceptional stargazing opportunities rarely found near populated areas.

The contrast between the dark silhouettes of the red rocks and the brilliant night sky creates a magical atmosphere. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches visibly across the heavens, while planets and constellations appear with remarkable clarity.

For the best experience, join a guided stargazing tour where experts use powerful telescopes to reveal distant galaxies and nebulae. Alternatively, spread a blanket at viewpoints like Airport Mesa or Beaverhead Flat for a romantic evening under the stars.

6. Shop at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Step into a charming slice of old Mexico right in the heart of Sedona! Tlaquepaque (pronounced Tla-keh-pah-keh) captivates visitors with its authentic Spanish Colonial architecture featuring graceful arches, cobblestone walkways, and fountain-centered courtyards shaded by massive sycamore trees.

This arts village houses over 50 specialty shops and galleries offering everything from high-end art to unique jewelry and Native American crafts. The attention to architectural detail makes simply wandering through the village a delightful experience.

After browsing the galleries, relax at one of several restaurants offering patio dining under the trees. Don’t miss the frequent cultural events and live music performances that add to the vibrant atmosphere of this Sedona landmark.

7. Experience a Vortex Meditation

Feeling the need for spiritual renewal? Sedona’s famous vortexes might be exactly what you’re searching for. These special energy centers are believed to facilitate prayer, meditation, and healing due to the concentrated electromagnetic fields that spiral from the earth.

Each of the main vortex sites—Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon—has its own unique energy quality. Some are said to enhance masculine energy (strength and confidence), while others amplify feminine energy (compassion and patience).

Many visitors report feeling tingling sensations, unexpected emotions, or profound peace at these locations. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or skeptic, sitting quietly at these stunning locations offers a rare opportunity for reflection amid some of nature’s most beautiful scenery.

8. Cool Off at Slide Rock State Park

Nothing beats the summer heat like sliding down nature’s perfect water park! Slide Rock State Park centers around a slick natural water chute formed by the smooth red rock bed of Oak Creek.

The 80-foot-long natural slide sends visitors gliding through refreshing pools of crystal-clear mountain water. Beyond the famous slide, you’ll find multiple swimming holes and peaceful spots to relax along the creek.

Once an apple farm, the park preserves historical buildings and orchards from the Pendley Homestead. Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds, especially during summer months when the park frequently reaches capacity. Wear water shoes to protect your feet and old clothes as the red sediment can stain fabrics.

9. Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway

Often called “a museum without walls,” this 7.5-mile stretch of Highway 179 offers one of America’s most spectacular drives. The Red Rock Scenic Byway winds through stunning formations with convenient pullouts where you can safely stop for photos or simply soak in the views.

Along the route, you’ll pass famous landmarks like Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Cathedral Rock. The changing light throughout the day transforms the rocks from bright orange in midday to deep crimson at sunset, creating an ever-changing canvas.

Multiple trailheads along the byway provide access to hiking adventures for all skill levels. Don’t rush this drive—plan at least an hour to enjoy the scenery, longer if you want to stop for short hikes or visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross which is accessible from this route.

10. Enjoy Wine Tasting in Verde Valley

Did you know that Sedona sits at the heart of Arizona’s burgeoning wine country? The Verde Valley Wine Trail connects several excellent vineyards and tasting rooms where you can sample award-winning wines in spectacular settings.

The region’s unique climate—hot days and cool nights—creates ideal conditions for growing certain varietals. Many wineries offer outdoor patios with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making the tasting experience about more than just the wine.

Popular stops include Page Springs Cellars, with its creek-side tasting room, and Javelina Leap Vineyard, known for its robust reds. Consider joining a guided wine tour if you want to fully enjoy the tastings without worrying about driving between locations.

11. Mountain Bike on Bell Rock Pathway

Calling all adventure seekers! Bell Rock Pathway offers some of the most accessible yet thrilling mountain biking in Sedona. This 3.6-mile trail system provides the perfect introduction to the area’s famous red rock riding.

The relatively flat terrain with occasional moderate climbs makes it suitable for intermediate riders while still offering spectacular views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. The hard-packed surface with some slickrock sections creates an exciting riding experience without extreme technical challenges.

Numerous trail intersections allow you to customize your ride length and difficulty. Rental shops in town provide quality mountain bikes specifically designed for Sedona’s terrain. Early morning rides offer cooler temperatures and magical lighting that makes the red rocks glow.

12. Relax at a Luxury Spa

After days of hiking and exploration, your body deserves some pampering at one of Sedona’s world-class spas. These wellness sanctuaries incorporate the area’s natural beauty and spiritual energy into uniquely rejuvenating experiences.

Many spa treatments feature local ingredients like prickly pear, juniper, and clay infused with minerals from the red rocks. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the magnificent landscape indoors, allowing you to enjoy treatments while gazing at towering formations.

Beyond traditional massages, look for Sedona-specific offerings like vortex-inspired energy balancing, Native American-influenced rituals, or outdoor treatments in private settings with panoramic views. Top spas include Mii Amo, Enchantment Resort’s Spa, and L’Auberge de Sedona’s spa along Oak Creek.

13. Helicopter Tour Over Red Rocks

Want to see Sedona’s magnificent landscape from a truly breathtaking perspective? Helicopter tours offer an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of the famous red rock formations that simply can’t be experienced any other way.

During these exhilarating flights, you’ll soar over landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon while your pilot provides informative commentary through your headset. The aerial perspective reveals hidden canyons, ancient Native American ruins, and geological features impossible to see from ground level.

Tours typically range from 15 to 30 minutes, with options for sunset flights when the rocks glow with intense color. While not the cheapest activity in Sedona, most visitors consider the unique perspective worth every penny for the unforgettable memories and spectacular photos.

14. Visit the Sedona Heritage Museum

Curious about Sedona before it became a tourist destination? The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s pioneer past through exhibits housed in a historic homestead.

Located in Jordan Historical Park, the museum occupies the original farmhouse and apple packing barn of the Jordan family, who were among Sedona’s first settlers. Exhibits showcase the evolution from farming community to movie filming location to artist colony and spiritual center.

Highlights include the extensive collection of films shot in Sedona’s iconic landscape, antique apple processing equipment, and a reconstructed telegraph office. The beautiful grounds feature heritage gardens and original farming equipment. Volunteer docents often share personal connections to Sedona’s history, adding depth to the exhibits.

15. Explore Red Rock State Park

Just a few miles from downtown lies a 286-acre nature preserve that showcases Sedona’s diverse ecosystems. Red Rock State Park features meandering trails along Oak Creek, educational programs, and some of the most spectacular views in the area.

Five miles of interconnected trails wind through riparian habitats, meadows, and juniper forests. The Eagle’s Nest Loop rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of Cathedral Rock reflected in the waters of Oak Creek. Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes open for javelina, mule deer, coyotes, and over 160 species of birds.

The visitor center houses excellent exhibits on local geology, plant life, and wildlife. Rangers offer daily guided nature walks and programs focused on the area’s natural and cultural history. The park is especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom and in fall when leaves change color.

16. Attend Sedona Arts Festival

If you’re lucky enough to visit in October, don’t miss the Sedona Arts Festival, one of the region’s premier art events. This weekend celebration transforms the campus of Sedona Red Rock High School into an outdoor gallery featuring works from over 100 juried artists from across the country.

The festival showcases diverse mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and fiber arts. Many pieces draw inspiration from Sedona’s spectacular landscape and spiritual energy. Beyond the art booths, you’ll enjoy live music performances, food vendors offering local specialties, and wine tasting featuring Arizona vineyards.

A Kidzone provides creative activities for young visitors while special exhibits highlight Native American artists from the region. The festival’s backdrop of red rock vistas makes browsing for art an even more memorable experience.