The Worst Tourist Traps in Sedona, Arizona: What to Skip
Sedona’s breathtaking landscapes and unique energy make it a must-visit destination, but not every spot lives up to the hype.
While some places offer incredible views and enriching experiences, others may leave you feeling underwhelmed or overcharged. To make the most of your time, it’s helpful to know which attractions might not be worth the detour.
Here are ten spots you might want to skip to ensure your Sedona adventure is as rewarding as possible. Ready to experience the best of Sedona without the letdowns?
1. Red Rock Jeep Tours
If you’re thinking of exploring Sedona’s famous red rocks via a jeep tour, prepare for disappointment. These tours are often overpriced and overcrowded. Expect bumpy rides that leave you more shaken than stirred.
How often do you find yourself jostling for a view with dozens of other tourists? These experiences can feel like a cattle drive rather than an intimate encounter with nature.
Consider exploring on foot or finding a smaller, local guide for a more personal tour. That way, the beauty of Sedona is savored, not rushed.
2. Chapel of the Holy Cross Gift Shop
It’s tempting to visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross for its stunning architecture, but steer clear of the adjacent gift shop. It’s often packed, with overpriced trinkets and long lines.
Where does spiritual tranquility go when you’re elbow-to-elbow with eager shoppers? The experience can feel more commercial than sacred.
Seek the chapel’s quiet corners instead, and experience the serenity without opening your wallet. This choice can lead to a more meaningful visit.
3. Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
When visiting Tlaquepaque, it’s easy to get caught in its tourist trap allure. This arts and crafts village is known more for its crowds and inflated prices than authentic crafts.
Are there hidden gems within? Certainly, but they’re often overshadowed by the mass-produced items. Wandering through the congested walkways, the magic of discovery can quickly wane.
Instead, look for local artists’ fairs and markets where genuine craftsmanship shines without the hefty markups.
4. Sedona UFO Tours
How does the idea of a UFO tour sound? It’s a fun concept but often a letdown in Sedona. These tours promise extraterrestrial sightings, yet you’ll likely just enjoy a beautiful starry sky.
Though some claim encounters, most experiences are stories spun for entertainment. The hefty ticket price might make you feel alienated from your wallet.
Try stargazing on your own or with a knowledgeable astronomer guide. You’ll get the same celestial beauty without the exaggerated promises.
5. Psychic Readings and Aura Photos
When walking through Sedona, psychic readings and aura photos beckon from every corner. It seems mystical, but often it’s a drain on both time and money.
Did you know these sessions can feel scripted, offering vague insights that leave more questions than answers? Many visitors find them more gimmick than guidance.
Consider reflecting on the natural beauty around you for genuine enlightenment. Nature might reveal more than any psychic could.
6. Crystal Vortex
It’s hard to avoid the allure of crystals when in Sedona, but Crystal Vortex can be a money pit. The shop is filled with glistening stones, each promising healing powers. How much healing can a wallet handle?
Prices here can be steep, and the purported benefits are often unsubstantiated. Instead, visit local gem shows or outdoor markets where stones are both unique and reasonably priced.
This way, you can find a true keepsake without the heavy price tag.
7. Sedona Trolley Tour
When you see a trolley tour, it might seem like a charming way to see Sedona. Unfortunately, these tours can be crowded and lack the flexibility to explore at your leisure.
Are you prepared to miss hidden gems in favor of a fixed route? Many find the experience lacking in depth and personal connection.
Opt for renting a bike or using a local guide to discover Sedona’s wonders at your own pace. Personal adventures often lead to the most memorable moments.
8. Oak Creek Canyon Overlook Vendors
At Oak Creek Canyon Overlook, vendors await with souvenirs that can feel generic and overpriced. It may be a scenic spot, but commercialism distracts from nature’s allure.
Where does genuine connection with the environment go amidst a sea of stalls? The serenity of the view can be lost in the hustle. Take in the views sans shopping and cherish the natural beauty that speaks for itself.
This choice can provide a more fulfilling experience.
9. Airport Mesa Vortex
When visiting Sedona, the Airport Mesa Vortex might catch your fancy, but it often disappoints. The site is crowded, and many leave feeling the visit wasn’t worth the hype.
Though some swear by its energy, it’s largely subjective and can lead to unmet expectations. Instead of a transformative experience, you might find it underwhelming.
Explore lesser-known vortex sites for a more peaceful and personal connection to Sedona’s famed energy spots.
10. Slide Rock State Park in Summer
If you consider visiting Slide Rock State Park during summer, prepare for the crowds. It’s a popular spot, but can feel more like a theme park than a peaceful retreat.
Did you know the lines and congestion might hamper the fun? Many find the park’s beauty overshadowed by its popularity. Visit during off-peak times or explore other creeks for a quieter experience.
Solitude enhances the natural beauty and makes for a memorable adventure.