17 Best Things to Do in Sedona Arizona

Sedona in Arizona is a must see destination in the United States. In the last years, its popularity has increased and more and more people visit this charming town located between the red rocks. Find out the best things to do in Sedona AZ for your unforgettable trip.

What exactly is so special about Sedona Arizona? It is known for its extraordinary landscape. You can wander through various uniquely formed red rocks, passing exotic desert plants, and twisted Juniper trees at the site of a vortex.

Apart from that, Sedona Az has everything from thrilling outdoor adventures, unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, beautiful views, intense spirituality, endless relaxation, and more.

There are so many Sedona things to do, that planning can get a little overwhelming. Check out our 17 top things to do in Sedona Arizona and our recommendations on when to go and how long to stay to get you excited about planning for your upcoming adventures in Sedona.

Our Other Resources for Sedona:

• 19 Can’t Miss Hikes in Sedona
• Soldier Pass Trail: How to Find the Hidden Cave
• Devils Bridge Sedona: Detailed Hiking Guide
• Hike Cathedral Rock Sedona: The Complete Guide
• Finding the Secret Birthing Cave Sedona

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Helpful Travel Planning Tools 

Where is Sedona?

First things first, where is Sedona? Sedona is centrally located in the state of Arizona in the southwest region of the United States. It lies within the Coconino National Forest, one of the most diverse National Forests in the country.

SEDONA DRIVING DISTANCES:

Flagstaff, Arizona – 45 minutes
Phoenix, Arizona – about 2 hours
Tucson, Arizona – 3 hours 30 minutes
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona – about 2 hours 30 minutes
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – about 2 hours 20 minutes
Las Vegas, Nevada – about 4 hours 30 minutes
Joshua Tree National Park, California – about 5 hours
Zion National Park, Utah – about 5 hours

Different Areas of Sedona

Before planning a trip to Arizona Sedona, it helps to understand the 4 different areas of Sedona: Uptown Sedona, West Sedona, the Village of Oak Creek, and Oak Creek Canyon. 

Note: A lot of our favorite Sedona things to do are actually located outside of the Sedona area. 

Uptown Sedona

Uptown Sedona is the heart of Old Sedona. It is located right at the base of Oak Creek just north of the intersection between Arizona 89A and 179. Here you will find lots of shops, galleries, and restaurants. 

TOP THINGS TO SEE:

• Uptown Sedona Shops
• Sedona Heritage Museum
• Sedona Arts Center

West Sedona

West Sedona is a very residential area of Sedona. From Uptown Sedona, you will take Arizona 89A to get to West Sedona. 89A is the main road that runs through the area and provides access to some of the best hikes in Sedona and more. 

TOP THINGS TO SEE:

• Soldier Pass Trail
• Devil’s Bridge Trail
• Boynton Canyon Trail + Subway Cave
• Birthing Cave
• Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
• Red Rock Loop Road

The Village of Oak Creek

The Village of Oak Creek is located just south of Uptown Sedona via Highway 179. Similar to West Sedona, here you will find more Sedona hikes, vortexes, and popular Sedona red rock formations. 

TOP THINGS TO SEE:

• Cathedral Rock
• Bell Rock
• Chapel of Holy Cross

Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon is located north of Uptown Sedona via Arizona 89A. This area is much different than the desert landscape of Sedona. Much of this area is dominated by the Coconino National Forest. 

TOP THINGS TO SEE:

• West Fork Trail
• Slide Rock State Park
• Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road

Best Things to Do in Sedona Arizona

What to do in Sedona AZ is totally up to you! There is something for everyone, the list of things to do in Sedona AZ is endless…

From enjoying the outdoors in the Coconino National Forests with its pine trees surrounded by the incredible red rock buttes and high canyon walls, to the various cultural experiences, like Sedona’s energy vortex, and some of the best-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings in North America.

HERE ARE OUR TOP THINGS TO DO IN SEDONA AZ TO ADD TO YOUR ITINERARY

1. Enjoy the Sedona Hiking Trails

Sedona is undeniably one of our favorite hiking destinations in the United States since it is home to some of the most gorgeous and exciting hiking trails. So it is with no question, hiking is one of the best things to do in Sedona Arizona. 

Sedona hiking trails are unique and diverse. Many of the hikes take you to hidden caves, through canyons, to natural arches, vortexes, and fantastic mountain views. Everything is in the middle of the beautiful Sedona red rock scenery.

Here are some of our personal favorite hikes you must do in Sedona. They also happen to be some of the most popular Sedona trails. 

Devil’s Bridge Trail

This trail will bring you to the popular Devils Bridge, a narrow natural arch you can cross when you are brave enough. There are several ways to get to the bridge, so you can pick your favorite. All of the hikes are easy to moderate and between 2 miles and 6 miles long.

Soldier Pass Trail

Looking to visit a secret cave in Sedona? Then this is the trail for you. To find the Soldier Pass Cave, you will hike through the beautiful Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness, passing some fascinating features along the way.

Cathedral Rock Trail

A quick steep trail that leads you up to the top of one of Sedona’s most popular red rock formations, Cathedral Rock. If you are looking for a little bit of rock scrambling and challenge, give this trail a try.

Birthing Cave (Long Canyon Trail)

Can’t get enough of Sedona Caves? The Birthing Cave is a beautiful hidden cave nestled in the cliffs of the red rocks. It is an easy and short 2 mile out and back hike from the Long Canyon trailhead. Some of these Sedona treasures are tricky to find, but our detailed instructions for each hike will give you all the information you need.

Top Tip: Would you like more information and tips for the best hiking trails? Check out our post on the 19 Best Hikes in Sedona You Don’t Want To Miss.

2. Feel the Powers of the Sedona Vortexes

Sedona is one of the most well-known places in the world to find energy vortexes. The Sedona energy vortexes are swirling centers of energy coming out from the earth’s core.

Tons of people travel to Arizona Sedona every year to visit and experience the vortexes which is why it is one of the top things to do in Sedona. 

In Sedona, there are 4 major vortexes which are located at Cathedral Rock at Red Rock Crossing, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon. 

It is believed a vortex in Sedona can help us heal, meditate, rejuvenate, reconnect, and explore ourselves. The best way to interact with the earth’s energy is to be in or in close proximity to a vortex. Don’t be surprised to see people doing yoga or meditating at these sites in hopes to feel the powers of the vortex. 

Wondering how you can tell if the Sedona vortex displays strong energy? Take a look at the Juniper trees in the area. Juniper trees respond to the vortex energy in a physical way. The energy is displayed by a twist in the Juniper tree’s trunks and branches. The more twists, the stronger the energy of the Sedona vortex.

Which Vortex in Sedona is the Strongest? The 2 strongest vortexes in Sedona in Arizona are the Cathedral Rock Sedona Vortex and Bell Rock Vortex. 

You can choose to take a tour to visit the vortexes which will provide a more in-depth experience or hike to the sites for yourself.

3. Drive Sedona’s Scenic Roads

Enjoy the beautiful Sedona views by taking a ride on one of the Scenic Drives in the area. Head down the Sedona Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179), Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Byway, or Red Rock Loop Road for the best road trip experience.

Red Rock Scenic Byway

The Red Rock Scenic Byway is no more than about 20 miles, but the views are priceless. If you plan on visiting Sedona, then you have to add this drive to your list of best things to do in Sedona AZ! On the drive, you will see the incredible Arizona desert landscape with towering red rock formations contrasting against the big beautiful blue sky. Plus, it is ranked as one of the most scenic drives in the state of Arizona.

Since this is the main road in Sedona, you will probably drive on parts of it a lot of times to get around. However, we highly suggest taking the time to complete the drive from start to finish.

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Byway

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Byway is located just north of Sedona. It is a 14-mile drive on Route 89A, that runs from Flagstaff to Sedona. On your way, you will pass some Sedona attractions, like the West Fork Trail and Slide Rock State Park. On top of that, you will get spoiled with beautiful vistas of the Oak and Pine trees scattered around in the Sedona red rock landscape.

We took the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Byway on our way from Flagstaff into Sedona and on our way back. Either way, the drive is beautiful. But coming from Flagstaff and driving down the windy roads into the canyon to see magical Sedona for the first time left us speechless.

Red Rock Loop Road

Red Rock Loop Road is an 8.5-mile scenic drive in West Sedona. Take Highway 89A west from Sedona, turn on Upper Red Rock Loop Road and follow it around until it connects back with 89A. 

This short drive is filled with dramatic vistas and views so take your time. Jump out and snap a few photos along the way.

4. Visit Sedona’s Natural Landmarks 

There are numerous significant natural landmarks that are a must see in Sedona. Here is more information on where they are located and how you can see them.

Airport Mesa – Airport Mesa is a stunning viewpoint overlooking a tree and shrub camouflaged mesa providing epic views of Sedona landmarks. Located south of West Sedona along Airport Road off of Highway 89A.

Visitors come to Airport Mesa for a variety of reasons. Some for the dramatic view, others to hike the Airport Mesa Trail, or for the power of the vortex. 

Bell Rock – Bell Rock is one of the easiest identifiable red rock formations in Sedona on Highway 179 just above the Village of Oak Creek. It is obviously named Bell Rock for its bell-like shape. You can quickly and effortlessly see Bell Rock from the road. If you want a closer look, you can take a hike around Bell Rock or climb a trail up the formation. 

Cathedral Rock – Cathedral Rock is quite possibly the most prominent landmark and a must see in Sedona. Close by Bell Rock, you can also see Cathedral Rock from Highway 179. But to really see and experience Cathedral Rock you have to hit the hiking trail. 

In our opinion, the best way to see Cathedral Rock is by hiking the Cathedral Rock Trail from the trailhead on Back O Beyond Road. 

Capitol Butte – Also known as Thunder Mountain, Capitol Butte is visible as you enter Sedona in Arizona from Highway 179 at the intersection of Highway 89A. This red rock formation forms one of the highest summits within Sedona. It is quickly noticeable from other landmarks as it towers over most of them. One of the best places to see Capitol Butte is from Airport Mesa or via the Thunder Mountain trail.

Chimney Rock – Chimney Rock is a stand-out red rock formation visible from West Sedona which can be seen along Highway 89A. The best opportunities to see Chimney Rock are from Airport Mesa which provides an aerial view or on the Chimney Rock trail. 

Coffee Pot Rock – Coffee Pot Rock is an eye-catching red rock formation in West Sedona which resembles a percolator coffee pot with a spout and lid. You can view the formation from Airport Mesa, Coffee Pot Drive, and Highway 89A. Or you can get up close on the Coffee Pot trail. 

Courthouse Butte – Courthouse Butte’s strong and massive appearance makes it one of the first recognizable red rock formations from anywhere in Sedona. It is located south of Uptown Sedona on Highway 179. Many Sedona hikes will provide great views of Courthouse Butte, but the one that will get you the closest is the Courthouse Butte Loop trail around its base. 

Devil’s Bridge – Seeing Devil’s Bridge is only reachable via a hiking trail. Devil’s Bridge is located in West Sedona on Dry Creek Road. To get the natural arch, you will have to take various hiking trails. Find out more about how to see Devil’s Bridge in our full detail post on how to get there.

Ship Rock – Ship Rock gets its name because it shows resemblance to a sailboat with a triangular sail. This red rock formation can be seen from the greater part of highway 89A in West Sedona, Airport Mesa, and the Mogollon Rim. 

Snoopy Rock – Do you think you can guess who this Sedona red rock formation is named after? If you guessed the loved Peanuts character, Snoopy, then you are correct. Snoopy lays asleep high above Oak Creek Canyon. To best see Snoopy Rock you have to be in Uptown Sedona or on Marg’s Draw trail. 

Bonus: Chimney Rock, Capitol Butte (Thunder Mountain), and Coffee Pot Rock form a marvelous landscape for watching a sunset. 

Top Tip: Stop at the Visitor Center and ask for a Sedona Arizona map. They have awesome big maps with Sedona’s natural landmarks to easily locate them.

5. Relax at a State Park

Sedona in Arizona is a paradise for outdoor lovers. When you get tired of hiking, there are so many other outdoor adventures, which are waiting for you. Just miles from the center of Sedona, you will find 2 fantastic state parks with lots of activities: The Red Rock State Park and Slide Rock State Park. Let’s explore them a little more.

Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park is a 286-acre nature preserve with an environmental education center and one of the main places to see in Sedona. You can hike, bike, or even go horseback riding on the trails through the famous red rock formations. Don’t forget to take the time and learn more about Sedona’s environment at the various exhibits, theater, or classrooms in the park.

Quick Facts about Red Rock State Park:
Location: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd
Hours: Opens daily. Park: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM / Visitor Center: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Fees: Adults (14+) – $7/day, Youth (7-13) – $4/day, Child (6 and younger) – FREE

Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park is best known for its 80ft long natural rock water slide formed by the Oak Creek Canyon. The State Park includes ½ mile of the creek in which you can also wade and swim. Last year it was even named one of the best swimming holes in America. After cooling down, you can decide to take one of the several hikes in the State Park or take a nap on the warm rocks.

Quick Facts about Slide Rock State Park:
Location: 6871 N. Highway 89A
Hours: Depending on the time of the year, mostly from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. The last entry is one hour before closing, the swim area closes 1/2-hour before closing. Find detailed information about the opening hours here.
Fees: High season (Tuesday after Labour Day – October 31 and March 1 – Labour Day): Per vehicle (1-4 adults): $20.00. From May 23 – Labor Day you have to pay $30 from Friday – Sunday, and on holiday Mondays
Low season (November – February): Per vehicle (1-4 adults): $10.00

*Motorcycle: Entry fee is 50 percent of the per vehicle fee

6. Go Off Roading on a Sedona Jeep Tour

If you are not interested in hiking your way to see Sedona, then a Jeep tour may be for you. Here you can sit back, relax, and experience Sedona’s back roads from the comfort of your vehicle.

The Pink Jeep Tours offer some of the most popular tours in Sedona, which are easy to book. There are so many options to choose from, that you can be sure to find one which suits you. From crawling up to ancient ruins to admiring giant Sedona red rock spires. Just be mindful that tour times and prices will vary depending on the one you pick.

Unfortunately, we did not have enough time to do a Jeep tour while we were in Sedona. Instead, we opted to get out and walk the Sedona hiking trails.

7. Ride the Mountain Biking Trails

Besides being a top hiking destination, Sedona is also a top-rated mountain biking destination in the United States. And the best is, you will find trails for all riders. Whether you are an avid mountain bike enthusiast or a family looking for adventure, there is a Sedona mountain biking trail for you.

Just like the Sedona hiking trails, the mountain biking trails will bring you through the outstanding red rock landscape of Sedona. Find out which mountain biking trail is best for you on this detailed post on 11 Top Rated Mountain Biking Trails in Sedona.

Did you know? Due to the nice weather, you can mountain bike almost all year round in Sedona.

Have your own mountain bike? Great, bring it with you. Don’t? No worries, rent one in Sedona or hop on a mountain bike tour for even more fun.

8. Cool Off by the Water

As you already know, Sedona is located in the desert, which means it can be awfully hot. So if you are looking for a place to cool off, then you have to add these two places to your best things to do in Sedona Arizona bucket list:

Red Rock Crossing

Red Rock Crossing offers a variety of ideal features for escaping the Sedona heat. Here you will find an abundance of trees and grass areas, to relax under, and swimming holes to splash in.

As a bonus, you can enjoy stunning views of the famous Cathedral Rock. Especially around sunset, where many photographers set up to take the perfect shot of Cathedral rock lit up by the bright orange sun. So don’t forget your camera! You won’t want to miss out on capturing the iconic photo of Cathedral Rock.

Crescent Moon Day Area

Crescent Moon Day Area is another one of the best places to see in Sedona to spend a relaxing afternoon. Grab your lunch or some snacks and have a picnic next to Oak Creek.

From here you will also have stellar views of Cathedral Rock and its reflection in the water.

Note: There is an entrance fee of $11/vehicle (up to 5 people) or a $2 walk-up fee.

9. Embrace the Spiritual Energy at Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

Get in touch with your spiritual side at the Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park in Sedona, where all faiths are welcome.

Residents and visitors like to come to do a prayer, meditate, or just surround themselves in the 14-acre park which is located at the bottom of Thunder Mountain, overlooking beautiful Sedona.

Its main attraction is the giant Buddha sculpture looking toward a 36-foot tall Stupa with multicolored flags hanging from the trees.

Experience the peaceful atmosphere of the park yourself and don’t miss out on this unique spiritual Sedona experience.

10. Check Out the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a must see in Sedona. 

The chapel was built by Frank Llyod Wright’s student, Marguerite Brunswig Staude in 1956. Its most significant feature is the 90-foot cross that encompasses the front of the building which can be easily spotted from a distance. 

You can also visit the inside of this extraordinary piece of architecture. It is open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM seven days a week, except for Christmas and Easter.  

Experience some Sedona magic by watching the sunlight shine through the stained glass windows.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind feature by forgetting to add it to your top things to do in Sedona’s list. It is located at 780 Chapel Road off of Highway 179. Do keep in mind parking is limited, and can be a challenge sometimes to find a spot.

11. Grab Unique Gifts at Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village is a beautifully crafted unique shopping destination in Sedona, filled with crafty shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy.

Although shopping may not be appealing to everyone, it should still be of your best things to do Sedona’s list for the design itself.

The village is built in a beautiful traditional Mexican mission style with clay, stucco, and colorful tiles. When strolling around on the pretty cobblestone streets, you may even forget that you’re still in the US.

On top of that, you never know when you may find a unique gift or souvenir to purchase as you walk on through.

12. Stroll Around Uptown Sedona

In the middle of it all, you will find Uptown Sedona. It is considered the “heart” of the town, as well as Sedona’s old town.

Here you will find a variety of shops with unique and fun gifts, cafes, restaurants, and more. It is a very vibrant, and active place you have to stop at during your stay in Sedona, even though it is a little touristy.

For us, we found it to be a great place to stroll around after a morning hike or another outdoor adventure to either pick up a few souvenirs, grab a bite to eat or cool off from the heat in the stores.

Top Tip: You’re looking for a dinner with a view? Oaxaca is a delicious Mexican restaurant offering a big patio with spectacular views of the Sedona red rock landscape.

13. Visit the Palatki and Honanki Heritage Sites

Interested in exploring more of the cultural history of Sedona? Then make sure to visit the Palatki and Honanki Heritage sites as one off the best things to see in Sedona Arizona.

The Palatki and Honanki Heritage sites are sister sites. They were the 2 largest cliff dwellings in the Red Rock Country from AD 1150 to 1350. 3 different short and easy trails will lead you around at the sites. One will guide you to the Sinagua cliff dwelling, another one offers a stunning view of the historic houses, and the last one brings you to some pictographs from the native people who lived in the Verde Valley.

The sites are managed by the Red Rock Pass Program and open to visitors 7 days a week. Since there are just a few visitors allowed every day, make sure to call Palatki in time to make your reservation.

Find out more information about what you need to visit the Palatki and Honanki Heritage sites here.

Note: The 2-mile long gravel road to get to the cliff dwellings is very rough but you don’t necessarily need a 4×4 vehicle.

14. Taste Wine at the Local Wineries

When you see the desert landscape of Sedona, you probably don’t think of it as a good place to plant grapevines. But surprisingly, you can find a couple of amazing little wineries throughout Sedona and the Verde Valley.

We had no idea about the Sedona wine until we stopped by the visitor center in town and spoke with a local. She highly recommended visiting a winery and mentioned that the Verde Valley is one of the best wine regions in the USA. The abundance of sunshine combined with the intense nighttime cool, rich soil, and an excellent water source makes it an ideal place to make wine.

Just outside of town is Page Springs Cellar, which is the winery we visited. It is a beautiful place to taste wine while overlooking their scenic vineyards.

Top Tip: Are you really into wine? Then expand your wine tasting adventures on the Verde Valley Wine Trail. The self-guided tour will bring you to the best wineries in the heart of Arizona. The majority of the wineries are located about half an hour’s drive southwest of Sedona. Print out this map of the Verde Valley Wine Trail to see where to find them.

15. Catch a Sunset

Sedona has some of the most beautiful sunsets. But what makes Sedona sunset so beautiful? The red rock formations, desert landscape, and steep canyons make the perfect backdrop for admiring the last few hours of light which casts a warm golden light over Sedona. 

Honestly, anywhere in Sedona will have a beautiful sunset, but there are a few locations that showcase the landscape even more. 

HERE ARE A FEW OF THE BEST SUNSET SPOTS:

• Airport Mesa
• From the top of Cathedral Rock 
• Red Rock Crossing near Oak Creek
• Devil’s Bridge
• Bell Rock
• Schnebly Hill Vista
• Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout
• Lover’s Knoll Scenic Viewpoint

16. Marvel at the Sedona Night Sky

Sedona is hands down one of the best places to go stargazing. As one of the certified Dark Sky Communities in the world, Sedona offers stunning views of the night sky almost any time during the year. The only time you may run into trouble to see a clear night sky is during Arizona’s monsoon season in July and August.

GREAT PLACES TO ENJOY THE DAZZLING NIGHT SKY:

• Two Trees Observation Area – A field at the intersection of Forest Road 525A and Forest Road 761B

• Jordan Trailhead Observation Area – Take the dirt road till the end of the West Park Ridge Drive

• Merry Go Round Rock – This viewing area is up the mountain around Schnebly Hill Road. At this location, you can totally avoid any light sources. It will just be the night sky and you.

Don’t worry when you can’t make it to these locations at night. After hiking all day long, we were always so exhausted, that we didn’t want to go anywhere after dinner. No matter where we were, we always had excellent views of the night sky. Just make sure to get outside at night to capture a breathtaking view of the Sedona sky.

17. Explore Sedona’s Surrounding Area

With so many best Sedona things to do, many travelers forget to explore the surrounding area. Whether you are heading North or South, there is something worthwhile to see that needs to be added to your best things to do in Sedona AZ list.

HERE ARE SOME OF OUR SUGGESTIONS:

Jerome

Step back in time and experience the “Wickedest Town in the West.” Jerome was once a flourishing copper mining town, now turned into a place for artists. But what really makes Jerome beautiful is its location in the Cleopatra Hills with views of Sedona’s red rocks and Flagstaff’s the San Francisco Peaks.

Verde Canyon Railroad

Enjoy one of Arizona’s most scenic railroad rides, which takes you on a 20-mile journey through the canyon offering outstanding views of the landscape.

Find out more about taking a trip on the Verde Canyon Railroad.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Visit one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in Arizona which were built and occupied by the Sinagua people from about 1100 to 1425.

Tuzigoot National Monument

This is a small national monument that preserves a 2 to 3 story pueblo. The pueblo ruins sit on top of a hillside overlooking the Verde Valley. Explore the self-guided ⅓ mile loop around the ruins to learn more about the Sinagua people.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Stop by another one of Arizona’s fascinating state parks. The park is located next to the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area. It is a perfect place to go hiking, biking, canoeing, and camping.

Flagstaff

Just shy of an hour north of Sedona, Flagstaff is one of Arizona’s delightful cities and home to Arizona’s highest mountain, Humphreys Peak. Take on the challenge of climbing to the top of Arizona or just stroll around Historic Downtown Sedona.

Sedona Arizona Map

How to Use this Google Map: To find out more about each place, click on the icon. To save this map, click on the star next to the map title. This will add the map to your Google Maps account. How do you find this map once you save it? Open Google Maps and click on the menu button. Scroll down and click on “Your Places” then click over to maps. 

Where to Stay in Sedona

There are endless options when it comes to finding an accommodation in beautiful Sedona Arizona.

Below, we listed our favorite accommodations from free dispersed camping spots, to budget lodges, and luxurious hotels.

Camping – Forest Road 525 (Loy Butte Road)

This is the only free camping spot in Sedona. Turn off the main road in Sedona in Arizona(89A) onto the dirt road and pick one of the pullouts to spend the night. There are no amenities, but the views of the surrounding red rocks are stunning and the perfect scenery for a nice sunset.

Budget – Sedona Village Lodge

If you don’t want to spend a fortune but you would like to stay close to the major landmarks, like Bell Rock and Downtown Sedona, the Sedona Village Lodge is your best bet. The rooms are clean, pretty, and the staff is extremely helpful.

Midrange – Lantern Light Inn – Romantic Getaway

Stay in this cozy, small guesthouse for a romantic getaway at the Lantern Light Inn. Enjoy the close proximity to some of the best hiking trails in Sedona and relax in the swinging chairs in the gorgeous outside area.

Splurge – Courtyard by Marriott Sedona

If you can afford to spend a little more money on your trip? Then book a stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Sedona. The beautiful property is located in the West of Sedona, providing exceptional views of the red rocks.

Useful Sedona Travel Tips

Sedona in Arizona is a top-rated destination to visit in the United States. To help planning your trip we have shared a few essential Sedona travel tips you need to know.

Red Rock Pass

You will need a Red Rock Pass or an equivalent pass for most of the hikes in Sedona. A Red Rock Pass is a permit that is required when utilizing hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and the 4WD roads in Sedona that are on National Forest Land. When a pass is needed, it has to be visibly placed on your vehicle’s windshield. 

The Red Rock Pass can be purchased at a self-serve machine that is located at many of the trailheads, Ranger Stations, the Sedona Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center, and at local businesses in Sedona. It costs $5 for single-day use, $15 for 7 consecutive days, and $20 for 12 consecutive months.

Other passes that are accepted are the America the Beautiful Interagency Pass, Golden Access Pass, and Golden Age Pass.

Weather in Sedona

Sedona’s weather varies over the course of the year. But for the most part, the summers are hot and mainly clear while the winters are cold and partly cloudy. Temperatures can range from 35°F to 94°F.

The hot season in Sedona is usually from the beginning of June to mid-September with the hottest month being July.

The cool season is from late November to the beginning of March with the coldest month being December. 

Best Time to visit Sedona

Sedona is a perfect destination to visit all year round. Each season brings travelers a different Sedona experience.

However, the best time of the year (and main season) to visit Sedona would be from March through May and September through November. During these months the temperatures are perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities. Unfortunately, it is also the busiest time of the year and you can expect the Sedona red rock area to be very crowded.

• Spring season (March through May): Lots of visitors come to Sedona during the spring to enjoy thrilling outdoor adventures in ideal temperatures from the mid ’60s to the low 80’s.

• Summer season (June through August):  This time of the year brings warmer temperatures, which is perfect for enjoying the various swimming holes throughout the area such as Oak Creek Canyon, Slide Rock State Park, and Red Rock Crossing. When you plan on going hiking, do that in the morning or late evening. Trust us, hiking during the day when the sun is beating on you is not enjoyable.

• Fall season (October through November):  Do you love fall foliage? This time of year you can experience the changing of the leaves against the lovely red rock scenery in Sedona.

• Winter Season (December through February): Even though Sedona is located in the Arizona desert, you can still see dazzling dustings of white snow across the red rocks. It is also a great time to visit when you want to avoid the crowds.

How long do you need in Sedona?

The time you need to spend in Sedona will depend on what you are interested in doing on your visit. A good average is about 3 to 5 days. 

We spent 4.5 days in Sedona and it was simply not enough time for us to enjoy all the outdoor opportunities. If you are an outdoor enthusiast and plan on doing a bunch of hikes we would say plan for at least 5 days and maybe even more. But of course, your time frame will also depend on how many activities you like to do in one day.

Is Sedona Worth Seeing?

After reading this post, we are sure you can answer the question yourself! As one of our absolute favorite places in the United States, we would come back in a heartbeat.

Where else can you find such a high concentration of exciting adventures and cultural and spiritual experiences? You can easily spend the morning hiking one of the extraordinary Arizona Sedona hikes, relax at one of the (State) Parks in the afternoon, stroll around Uptown Sedona or Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village in the evening, and end your day watching the stars. Did you already figure out what to do in Sedona AZ first?

We spent 4.5 days in Sedona and that wasn’t nearly enough for us. There are simply so many things you must do in Sedona! When you visit this incredible place, make sure to have enough time for all the activities from our best things to do Sedona list.

What are your favorite things to do in Sedona AZ? How many hikes did you explore in the red rocks?

Share your experiences with us or drop some questions in the comments below!

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• Utah: Kanarra Falls Trail Guide: The Slot Canyon You Don’ Want to Miss
• National Parks: First Hand Ranking of National Parks in the US from Best to Worst

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