Top things to do in Sedona [+32 Cool and fun Activities]

Sedona is one of the most popular places to visit in the Southwest. It gets more than 3 million visitors each year and is surrounded by beautiful red rock formations. The Sedona Chamber of Commerce says tourism generates about $1 billion in economic benefits for this high-desert town of only 10,000 people. The city is 4,350 feet above sea level, where the Colorado Plateau meets the Sonoran Desert. Before we explore the information, you can check out all the essential details in the reports on Sedona's geology.

Why Visit Sedona, Arizona

The red rocks of Sedona tell a story about the Earth that goes back 300 million years. These unique formations, composed mainly of Schnebly Hill sandstone, create a natural amphitheater visible from almost any angle.

Sedona is one of the best places in the country to go outside and have fun. Oak Creek Canyon has over 400 miles of trails that pass through national forest lands and protected wilderness areas. Sedona is one of the best desert destinations in the country, with a wide range of trails to explore.

It is also a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy candidate and has more than 80 art galleries , making it a cultural hotspot. Sedona enjoys about 278 sunny days each year, which is well above the national average of 205. This makes Sedona an ideal place for outdoor activities and adventures for most of the year.

Best Time to Visit Sedona

Based on the Sadona net in the United States, the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild (65–85°F) and rainfall is light.

In the summer, the heat can be over 95°F, but there are also big monsoon storms that turn desert washes into temporary waterfalls. In the winter, you can be alone and see snow on the red rocks from time to time, but some trails at higher elevations may not be accessible.

You can listen to the fantastic story of Sedona:

Monthly Weather and Activities Guide:

Month	Average High/Low (°F)	Precipitation	Top Activity
January	56°/31°	2.3 inches	Red rock hiking with snow-dusted peaks
February	60°/34°	2.5 inches	Gallery hopping and indoor attractions
March	65°/38°	2.4 inches	Wildflower viewing begins
April	73°/44°	1.0 inch	Peak hiking season starts
May	82°/51°	0.6 inches	Creek swimming and water activities
June	92°/59°	0.4 inches	Early morning trail adventures
July	95°/66°	2.5 inches	Oak Creek Canyon cooling
August	92°/65°	3.0 inches	Monsoon waterfall photography
September	87°/59°	2.2 inches	Mountain biking season peaks
October	76°/48°	1.7 inches	Fall foliage viewing
November	63°/37°	1.8 inches	Scenic drives and overlooks
December	55°/31°	2.1 inches	Holiday events and festivals

How to Get to Sedona and Around the City

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the main airport, located 120 miles south of here. It serves more than 48 million passengers each year. It takes about 2 hours to drive north on Interstate 17 and State Route 179, a beautiful route.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is only 30 miles away and offers limited commercial service, but it's easy to reach for people who want to drive less.

Once you get to Sedona, you'll need your own car because public transportation is limited. Uptown (the tourist center), West Sedona (residential and commercial), and the Village of Oak Creek are the three main areas that make up the city's layout.

Ride-sharing services are available in most parts of the area, but they may be harder to find during busy times. There are several companies that offer jeep tours, bike rentals, and shuttle services to popular trailheads. These are good options for people who don't want to drive.

Top Outdoor Adventures in Sedona

Cathedral Rock Trail

Sedona's Cathedral Rock Trail is the city's most photographed spot. This hike, which gains 740 feet over 1.2 miles, has some steep sections that make it hard to get up. You get 360-degree views of red rock country from the saddle between two spires as a reward.

Devil's Bridge

The largest natural sandstone arch in Arizona. The moderate trail is 4.2 miles long and leads to a formation 54 feet wide. Adventurous visitors can walk across the bridge itself, but they should be careful because there are no railings.

Oak Creek Canyon

SR 89A is a paved highway that goes down 2,000 feet through one of America's most beautiful gorges for 16 miles. Seven developed swimming areas help people cool off in the summer. Slide Rock State Park has natural water slides carved into the creek.

Mountain biking:

There are more than 100 miles of marked trails for mountain biking, including the technical Hangover Trail and the flowing Highline Trail system. The slickrock terrain in Sedona requires skill but gives riders one-of-a-kind desert singletrack experiences.

Free Things to Do in Sedona

Things to Do in Sedona for Free:

• The Chapel of the Holy Cross sits dramatically on two red rock buttes and offers stunning views and amazing architecture without charging an entrance fee. People of all backgrounds come to this Roman Catholic chapel, completed in 1956, to reflect and take pictures.
• The Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) is a free driving tour that takes you past famous formations like Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Cathedral Rock. Many pullouts along this nationally designated scenic route let you stop to take pictures.
• The Sedona Public Library has Southwestern-style buildings, reading rooms, and free internet access. It also has regular cultural events and art shows.
• Airport Mesa is a great place to watch the sunset because the fading light makes the red rocks look different colors. You only have to walk a short distance from the parking lot to get to this overlook.

What to Do in Sedona with Kids?

Sedona is an excellent place for families because it has a lot of activities that will keep kids busy while also showing off the area's natural beauty and cultural history. The city's family-friendly infrastructure includes easy-to-access trails, educational programs, and interactive experiences that make learning fun.

Parents will see that Sedona's outdoor classroom offers kids hands-on opportunities to connect with nature, history, and wildlife in ways other attractions can't.

Things to do in Sedona that are good for families

1. Wildlife Park Out of Africa

This large wildlife sanctuary spans 104 acres and is home to more than 400 animals from around the world. The park sets itself apart from other zoos by offering immersive experiences instead of just looking at animals.

Children can see animals in habitats that resemble their native ecosystems as they walk through them.

Tiger Splash shows have big cats diving into pools and showing off their swimming skills. These are exciting moments that kids will remember for a long time.

Predator feed encounters are educational events where trained staff discuss how predators hunt, the challenges of conservation, and the importance of apex predators in maintaining ecosystem balance.

Interactive educational programs teach kids about endangered species, how to protect their habitats, and how wildlife parks help protect the environment worldwide. The park's design makes it easy for kids with short attention spans who need to move around and be involved to do so.

For more details and information, you can check the list of the best wildlife safaris outside of Africa, too.

2. State Park Slide Rock

This popular place is where geology makes natural entertainment, and Oak Creek becomes nature's ultimate water park. The main draw of the park is the smooth creek rocks that make natural water slides. These rocks have been polished over thousands of years by flowing water:

Natural water slides carved into bedrock are safe for kids of all ages and swimming abilities to slide down.

Lifeguards watch over families in the cool water during the busiest summer months, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Toddlers and younger kids who aren't ready for the faster-moving slide sections can use the shallow wading areas.

Kids can look for water bugs, watch fish, and learn about riparian ecosystems in a hands-on way when they explore creeks.

Shaded picnic areas give you a break from the Arizona sun and make it easy for your family to eat between swimming sessions.

The park charges a small fee per car. If you get there early on summer weekends, you can avoid having to wait in line when parking fills up.

3. Red Rock State Park has Junior Ranger Programs.

Through its fun Junior Ranger program, Red Rock State Park teaches kids how to take care of the environment. This program is for kids ages 5 to 12 and combines learning with adventure:

Activity booklets help kids learn on their own about desert ecology, how to identify native plants, and how to track animals.

Kids learn to spot animal signs like tracks, scat, and feeding evidence through wildlife tracking exercises. This turns every trail into a detective adventure.

Lessons on desert ecology teach how plants and animals change to survive in the high desert, where it gets very hot, there isn't much water, and the seasons change.

Conservation principles teach kids about caring for the environment and how they can help protect natural areas.

Official Junior Ranger badges are given out to kids who finish the program. These badges are a real way to show that they are proud of their work and want to keep protecting nature.

The program usually takes 60 to 90 minutes to complete, and kids can do it at their own pace, making it easy for families with different schedules and energy levels.

Spiritual and Relaxing Things to Do in Sedona

People from all over the world come to Sedona to explore their spirituality and do energy work. They come to find peace, clarity, and a connection to something bigger than themselves. Sedona's peaceful settings and dedicated practitioners make it easy to relax and think about your life, whether you come with a spiritual belief or just out of curiosity.

Sedona is a great place for people who want to get away from the fast pace of modern life, thanks to its beautiful natural scenery and the people who live there, who are dedicated to wellness practices.

Energy Vortex Sites

People from all over the world come to Sedona for its reputation as an energy vortex. There are four main places that many people believe give off concentrated earth energy. There is still debate about whether these sites are scientifically valid, but visitors always say they have profound experiences there:

• Airport Mesa offers the easiest access to the vortex, with paved parking and short trails leading to meditation spots with views of the entire Sedona basin.
• Cathedral Rock has both strong energy and beautiful views, but getting to the vortex requires some hiking and scrambling.
• Bell Rock is easier to climb and has several places where people can stop to meditate, do energy work, or just take in the peaceful surroundings.
• At opposite ends of Boynton Canyon, there are both masculine and feminine energy poles. This makes for balanced experiences for practitioners.

People say that these places are good for meditation, healing, and spiritual awakening. Many visitors have reported feeling more aware, emotionally free, or physically tingly while they were there.

Wellness and spa services

Day spas in Sedona have taken traditional spa services to the next level by adding local elements that link treatments to the area's natural beauty.

• Red clay wraps use mineral-rich sediment from the area's unique formations, which are thought to remove toxins and nourish the skin.
• During crystal healing sessions, practitioners use stones from mines in the area and around the world. They place crystals on energy centers to help the body find balance.
• Scrubs, lotions, and aromatherapy products that use prickly pear, jojoba, and creosote are all part of desert botanical treatments.
• Vortex energy massages blend traditional bodywork with techniques that work with Sedona's special energetic properties.
• Facilities range from luxury resort spas with full-service amenities to intimate healing centers offering personalized, boutique experiences.

Prices for treatments range from $100 for basic services to over $400 for spa packages that last several hours. Many practitioners have outdoor treatment spaces with views of red rocks.

Best Scenic Drives and Photo Spots

The best views of Sedona's landscape are from high places and winding roads that take you through different ecosystems in a matter of minutes. Photographers can capture the sunrise over eastern formations, the midday depths of the canyon, and the sunset lighting up the western spire. Additionally, Sedona's landscape reveals itself most dramatically from elevated vantage points and winding roads, making it one of the most rewarding scenic road trips across America.

All in one day, because the city is so small. Some of these scenic routes are paved highways safe for any vehicle, while others are rough backcountry roads that require a lot of clearance and confidence from the driver. This means that everyone can find something they like, no matter how much time or comfort they have.

Section	Highlights & Key Details
Sedona’s Landscape Overview	Compact city with diverse ecosystems; allows capturing sunrise, canyon depths, and sunset all in one day. Scenic routes range from easy paved drives to rugged 4WD roads.
Schnebly Hill Road	12 miles, 2,000 ft elevation gain from desert to pine forest Offers panoramic viewpoints Requires a high-clearance vehicle; impassable after rain/snow First 3 miles are suitable for most cars Historic main road to Flagstaff Seasonal closures (summer monsoons, winter snow)
Red Rock Loop Road	- 7-mile paved loop with Cathedral Rock views - Ideal for golden hour photography - Foregrounds: junipers, wildflowers, rocks - Access to Buddha Beach (reflection photos) - Connects easily to Highway 179 at both ends
Upper Red Rock Loop	- Quieter, less-touristed area - Access to Soldier Pass, Seven Sacred Pools, Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole - Great for geology lovers - Paved but narrow; limited pullouts - Leads to wilderness trails (Secret Canyon, Bear Mountain)
Art, Culture & Shopping Overview	Sedona has one of the highest gallery concentrations in the U.S. — blending Southwestern tradition with modern creativity. Art, jewelry, sculpture, and photography thrive here.
Gallery Scene & Collections	- 80+ galleries across Uptown & Tlaquepaque - Features Southwestern landscapes, sculpture, Native jewelry, abstract works, fine art photography - Walkable districts along Highway 89A
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village	- 40 shops/eateries in a Mexican-style courtyard village - Features tiles, fountains, carved doors, art, jewelry, décor - Dining from cafes to fine dining - Hosts year-round festivals & art events - Opens daily (most at 10:00 AM)
Sedona Arts Center	- Nonprofit art hub offering classes & rotating exhibits - Features local/regional artists - Outdoor sculpture garden - Free admission; class fees vary - Regular workshops & community events
First Friday Art Walks	- Monthly evening event (5–8 PM) - Meet artists, view new exhibits - Music, food, and festive atmosphere - Shuttle and walkable routes between galleries

Unique and Fun Experiences

• Pink Jeep Tours: drive on 4x4-only backcountry trails to reach remote rock formations and archaeological sites that regular cars can't access. These guided trips last between two and four hours.
• At dawn, hot-air balloon rides take off and float silently over red rock spires as the sun rises, lighting up the landscape from unusual aerial angles.
• Stargazing programs take advantage of the fact that the skies are relatively dark outside the city center. Guided telescope viewing shows off celestial wonders that are even more amazing because of the high-desert clarity.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Sedona is a great place to start exploring some of Northern Arizona's most amazing places because it is in the middle of everything. There are a lot of great things to do nearby, whether you like seeing amazing natural wonders, visiting historic towns, or exploring ancient cultural sites. You can do them all in one day or stay overnight.

• The Grand Canyon South Rim is 110 miles north, which is a doable day trip, but staying overnight is the best way to see this natural wonder's beauty. For travelers with additional time, exploring Zion National Park offers another spectacular red rock experience within a few hours' drive."
• Jerome, a former mining town now an artist community, is 30 miles from Cleopatra Hill. It offers unique shops, historical tours, and views of the Verde Valley from every angle.
• The five-story cliff dwelling at Montezuma Castle National Monument, 20 miles south, shows how clever the Sinagua were in building.

Where to Eat and Drink in Sedona

Sedona's food scene is as diverse as its tourist attractions, with more than 100 restaurants, from casual cafes to fancy ones. Elote Cafe is a local favorite for creative Mexican food, Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill is a great place to eat at sunset with great views, and ChocolaTree is a great place to get organic vegetarian food. Some craft breweries make small-batch beers that use plants from the desert.

Where to Stay in Sedona

There are many types of places to stay in the area, so every traveler can find the perfect place that fits their needs and budget. The Enchantment Resort, which is tucked away in the beautiful

• Boynton Canyon is a peaceful getaway with a full-service spa for those who want to pamper themselves. This resort offers high-end amenities, including spacious rooms with great views, fine dining, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as yoga and hiking in beautiful natural settings.
• L'Auberge de Sedona, on the other hand, is a romantic place to stay along the peaceful banks of Oak Creek. This lovely place features cozy cottages and luxurious lodges by the river, making it a great place for couples to reconnect while enjoying the sounds of flowing water and the area's beauty.
• There are many vacation rental homes available for families and groups who want a more homey feel. These private accommodations have everything you need to feel at home, like kitchens for making family meals and plenty of space for everyone to relax and unwind together.
• Camping in national forest campgrounds is a great way to get up close and personal with nature without spending a lot of money. With tall trees and peaceful scenery all around, these places let guests connect with nature through activities like hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing under the vast night sky.

Final Tips for Visiting Sedona

A little bit of planning goes a long way before you go out to see Sedona's beautiful landscapes. Knowing what to pack and how to find your way around the trails will make your trip go smoothly, be fun, and be safe, despite the unpredictable weather, rough terrain, and safety issues that come with being in the desert.

What to Pack

Item	Details & Tips
Clothing	Dress in layers to handle temperature changes; mornings can be cool even when afternoons reach 90°F.
Footwear	Wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support suitable for rocky terrain.
Hydration	Bring 3–4 liters of water per person for long hikes; include electrolyte supplements.
Sun Protection	Use SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats to protect against high-altitude UV exposure.
Camera Gear	Secure camera gear with straps to prevent it from falling during climbing or scrambling sections.

Safety and Trail Etiquette

Safety Topic	Details & Tips
Lightning	Common during monsoon season (July–September); descend immediately if storms approach.
Flash Floods	It can occur in slot canyons even when skies are clear upstream; remain alert.
Trail Use	Stay on designated trails to avoid erosion and protect fragile desert vegetation.
Leave No Trace	Pack out all trash and follow environmental principles.
Respect Boundaries	Observe private property and sacred sites.
Communication	Cell coverage is limited in remote areas; inform someone of your hiking plans.
Wildlife	Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, such as rattlesnakes, especially in spring and fall.