Hello adventurers! It’s Nasiba.
After my short-lived attempt at a luxury lifestyle in Scottsdale, I decided to try another part of Arizona. This time, my adventurous spirit took me to Sedona.
My friend, James, who lives in Scottsdale, offered to drive me there so I could experience the scenic landscape along the way. Unbeknownst to us, the trip had other plans in store. What was meant to be a 2-hour trip turned into a 7-hour journey. I’ll fill you in.
We were up by 5 am. Please may it be categorically known that I hate early mornings. This morning was an exception because we wanted to catch the magical sunrise!
After stopping to admire the sunrise, we continued the journey and enjoyed some breathtaking views plus an amazing playlist. A few minutes into the drive, we heard a loud bang! We didn’t need NASA to tell us what had happened.
Long story short, one of the rear tires burst and James did not have a spare one. We were stuck there for four hours!
Nevertheless, we made it to Sedona where I had a great time.
Here are some of the activities I did.
That’s all for today. I can’t wait to hear all about your experiences in Sedona. Stay adventurous!
Hello adventurers! It’s Nasiba.
After my short-lived attempt at a luxury lifestyle in Scottsdale, I decided to try another part of Arizona. This time, my adventurous spirit took me to Sedona.
My friend, James, who lives in Scottsdale, offered to drive me there so I could experience the scenic landscape along the way. Unbeknownst to us, the trip had other plans in store. What was meant to be a 2-hour trip turned into a 7-hour journey. I’ll fill you in.
We were up by 5 am. Please may it be categorically known that I hate early mornings. This morning was an exception because we wanted to catch the magical sunrise!
After stopping to admire the sunrise, we continued the journey and enjoyed some breathtaking views plus an amazing playlist. A few minutes into the drive, we heard a loud bang! We didn’t need NASA to tell us what had happened.
Long story short, one of the rear tires burst and James did not have a spare one. We were stuck there for four hours!
Nevertheless, we made it to Sedona where I had a great time.
Here are some of the activities I did.
Sedona is a magical desert city.
- Where to stay in Arizona? here is a best Arizona resorts, class rating included, as you can navigate our list of top-rated Sedona resorts.
This city in the state of Arizona is renowned for its red rock scenery and vortex meditation sites.
It is home to some of the world’s most famous attraction sites that include canyons, stargazing sites, spiritual sites, and museums.
Sedona is not short of outdoor activities, and anyone who loves them will find this city quite fascinating.
It has activities for everyone, including families with children.
The attractions are too many and can get overwhelming.
25 Best Things to Do in Sedona:
1. Oak Creek Canyon
Google Review: 4.6/5
- Located between Sedona and Flagstaff.
Why you should go: It is a scenic river gorge that is often compared to the Grand Canyon for its beauty. The Canyon is 12 miles long, while its width is 0.8 miles at its narrowest point, and 2.5 miles at its widest point.
The beautiful Oak Creek River, a tributary stream, is found at the bottom of the red rock canyon.
The best time to visit Oak Creek Canyon is in Fall. The site is less crowded, and the vegetation’s color is most beautiful around this time. The climate at this time is also ideal.
Oak Creek Canyon is 14 minutes from Sedona Airport.
Things to do: Drive to Oak Creek Canyon and enjoy the scenic landscape on your way. The canyon has beautiful trails that make for very good hiking grounds. Enjoy a hike or a relaxed nature walk.
There are beautiful water falls as well as spectacular views at the top of the canyon.
Creek River provides grounds for water activities such as swimming, and fishing. Camping and picnicking are allowed.
2. The Grand Canyon
Google Review: 4.8/5
Why you should go: You cannot plan a trip to Arizona and not include The Grand Canyon one of fun things to do in Sedona.
The Grand Canyon is also one of the most visited and most spectacular attractions in the United States. After all, it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
It is the 5th deepest canyon in the world at 6,093 ft.
Admission Ticket Prices: North and South rims
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$35 per private vehicle plus passengers.
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$30 per motorcycle.
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$20 for on foot visitors, bicycles and shuttles.
The Grand Canyon National Park Airport is located within the national park.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- Two hours and nine minutes.
Best time to visit
- March to May, September to November.
The South Rim remains open all year round.
Things to do: Visiting the Grand Canyon to witness its grandeur is enough reason. Its rocks layers seem to have different shades of color owing to their mineral composition.
But while here, you can enjoy other activities like hiking, rafting, and running. You can also enjoy a myriad of thrilling activities like helicopter rides, and skydiving.
3. Antelope Canyon (Upper Antelope Canyon)
Google Review: 4.6/5
Why you should go: The Upper Antelope Canyon is renowned for its world-famous enchanting light beams. You have probably seen them circulating online. Photographer Peter Lik captured them and sold the photographs for $6.5 million.
Admission ticket prices: inclusive of park fees
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$85, adults from 8 years and above.
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$67, children from 7 years and below.
Best time to visit:
- Between May and September.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- Two hours and forty eight minutes.
Things to do: Hike your way to the Upper Antelope Canyon. It is a low-stress and one of the easiest climbs, but with a rewarding adventure. The hike is 1.2 miles.
You can also visit the canyon to learn all about its history and formation.
Take memorable photos at the canyon.
4. Main Street
- Located in Uptown Sedona.
Why you should go: Whenever you visit any new city, it’s nice to explore its shopping and culinary scene.
Main Street is the shopping district in Sedona which consists of shopping stores, gift shops, museums, restaurants, and cafés.
Things to do: Well, it is a shopping and dining spree in Main Street! explore everything that this shopping district has to offer.
5. Chapel of the Holy Cross
Google Review: 4.8/5
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Opened in 1957.
- Architecture wonder.
Why you should go: Whether you are into architecture or not, this historical landmark in Sedona will amaze you with its fascinating architectural design and the surrounding land on which it stands.
It is one of the most amazing attraction sites in Sedona. It ranked as one of the top seven man-made wonders in Arizona in 2007.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 15 minutes.
Admission Ticket Price
- The Chapel of the Holy Cross is free to enter.
Best time to visit
- Midmorning when there are less crowds.
Things to do: Visit this National Historical Place to marvel at its architectural grandeur. It is beautiful inside and outside.
You can take time to also appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors are allowed to light a candle in the chapel during a tour.
6. Slide Rock State Park
Google Review: 4.7/5
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Best water activities.
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Sits on 40 acres of land.
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Found in Oak Creek Canyon.
Why you should go: Slide Rock State Park is the best place to visit if you are seeking thrilling water activities in Sedona. It has beautiful water holes and natural waterslides.
This park is also a famous picnic site that offers lovely views of the red rock and the Coconino National Forest.
Ticket prices
- $20 per vehicle – capacity of 4.
- Note that prices may vary on holidays.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 14 minutes.
Things to do: Listed as one of the “Top 10 swimming holes in the United States”, this park offers one of the most thrilling swimming experiences. The water holes are also ideal for sliding and wading.
You can hike on the lovely short trails in Coconino National Forest, on which this park lies.
7. Red Rock State Park
Google Review: 4.7/5
Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
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Outdoor adventure.
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286 acres of land.
Sedona is famous for its red rock landscape. This park that features a red sandstone canyon is the best place to witness this fact in its entirety.
It has scenic trails and offers the best view of the most famous landmark in Arizona, Cathedral Rock.
Best time to visit
- All day in March, April, October and November.
- Early in the morning, May to September.
Ticket Prices
- $7 – adults from 14 years and above.
- $4 – youths from 7 to 13 years.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 18 minutes.
Explore this park by hiking its trails and reaching its highest point which stands at 300 ft.
There is a visitor center located within the park where you can learn all about the rock formations in the area as well as the history of the region.
If you love night hikes, the park offers a full moon hike.
8. Sedona Arts Center
Facebook Review: 4.4/5 (104 votes)
Address: 15 Art Barn Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
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Non-profit organization.
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Over 60 years in operation.
Why you should go: If you are into art and would love to buy some art pieces, visit Sedona Arts Center. It houses artwork sourced from local artists in the city.
Best time to visit
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Opens daily from 10 am to 5 pm
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Opens from 12 pm to 5 pm on Sundays
Ticket Prices
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Free entry
Distance from Sedona Airport
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20 minutes.
Things to do: Include Sedona Arts center in your vacation plan of best things to do in Sedona to explore the art and creativity scene in this city. You can purchase a few pieces to carry as souvenirs.
Art events are hosted here regularly and if you are lucky you might catch one. Art classes and seminars are also offered.
9. Sedona Heritage Museum
Google Review: 4.6/5
Address: 735 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
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The Jordan Family’s former home.
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History museum.
Why you should go: This is an indoor historical museum with a focus on conserving and teaching the history of Sedona. It has various exhibits which showcase the history of this city from the Civil War period to date.
It educates visitors in an entertaining way.
Best time to visit
- Open daily from 11 am to 3 pm.
- Closed on holidays.
Ticket Prices
- $7 – self-guided tour for adults from 13 years and above.
- Free – Under 13 years.
- Extra $3 for an audio tour.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 10 minutes.
Things to do: Learn the history of Sedona which includes the famous Telegraph Office. It was built over one hundred years ago and was moved Sedona in early 1940s.
It became part of a film set at a time when hundreds of movies were filmed in this city.
The Telegraph Office is preserved in the Sedona Heritage Museum.
This museum has a children’s section where they can enjoy a scavenger hunt.
10. Red Rock Scenic Byway
Google Review: 5/5 (WOW)
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7.5 miles long.
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Winds through Coconino Forest.
Why you should go: If you enjoy long scenic drives, you should include the Red Rock Scenic Byway one of the enjoyable things to do in Sedona.
This drive is the best way to explore the Red Rock County of Sedona as it offers the most magnificent views. What’s more? It’s free.
Things to do: Good things are not often offered for free.
But when they are offered you should take them with open arms. Do not miss out on this free thrilling adventure.
11. Palatki Heritage Site
Google Review: 4.7/5
Address: Forest Rd #795, Sedona, AZ 86336
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Archaeological attraction site.
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It is in Coconino National Forest.
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Built from 1100 to 1400 CE.
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UNESCO World heritage site.
Why you should go: The Palatki Heritage Site takes you back in time to experience the life of the Sinagua people who lived in Arizona. This site is home to their cliff dwellings which they built for shelter.
The site features pictograph drawings and symbols on its walls.
Best time to visit
- Open daily from 9.30 am to 3 pm.
Ticket Prices
- Purchase a Red Rock pass for $5.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 41 minutes.
Things to do: Learn the history of the Sinagua people including their historical significance in shaping Sedona. You will be intrigued as much as you’ll be educated.
12. Bell Rock Trail
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Family-friendly attraction.
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Easy hike.
Why you should go: This is a 3.6-mile trail that connects Sedona to the Village of Oak. It is popular for its vortex as well as stunning views.
This hiking trail is perfect for hikers of any level, including children.
Ticket Prices
- Purchase a Red Rock pass for $5.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 17 minutes.
Things to do: Experience feminine energy and all that it brings, by hiking this trail. If you are traveling to Sedona as a family with children, bring them here so you can experience the beauty of Red Rock Country and create memories together.
13. A Spa For You
Google Review: 4.9/5
Address: 30 Kayenta Ct, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Wellness center
Why you should go: While on vacation, it is important to take care of your health. And one of the ways to do so is by visiting a wellness center to have your physical health checked.
There is many medical tips to stay healthy on the road or during traveling you can find at few companies like Lemonaid, feel free to check the lemonaid health reviews before deciding to go with them!
A Spa For You offers massages and other treatments that will leave your body and mind relaxed after a day or days of continuous exploration.
The Spa has won the Trip Advisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award for the past 10 years.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 9 minutes.
Things to do: This wellness center offers a range of services including a Japanese Facial massage, warm oil massage, body wraps, and hot stone massage, among others.
14. Enchantment Resort
Google Review: 4.6/5
Address: 525 Boynton Canyon Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Sits on over 70 acres of land.
Why you should go: It is one of the most famous luxury resorts in Sedona owing to its location at the root of Boynton Canyon, surrounded by red rocks and beautiful landscape.
The resort has done a great job of blending in with its surroundings by maintaining a red exterior finish on all its buildings.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 21 minutes
Things to do: Visit this resort to experience luxury accommodation surrounded by beautiful rock formations. It has world-class rooms, restaurants, spa, pool and bar.
You will enjoy fine dining as you overlook the Boynton Canyon.
The spa offers a myriad of treatments.
This facility also features a tennis court and a golf course.
Fascinated by Arizona and looking to tour more of it? Check out the best resorts in Tucson for your visit!
15. Oak Creek Brewery and Grill
Google Review: 3.9/5
Address: 336 AZ-179 Suite D201, Sedona, AZ 86336
- It is in Tlaquepaque Village.
- Dining and craft beer.
Why you should go: After a long day of hiking the Red Rock County, you need to find a place to unwind.
is the ideal spot.
It is a laid-back brewery that offers local crafted beers and delicious cuisines made from local farm produce.
Things to do: Rejuvenate your body by having a fresh meal in this grill place.
Finish the meal with a cold craft beer. This is the best place to interact with locals as you learn their culture and enjoy some beautiful music.
16. Outlaw Grille
Google Review: 4.7/5
Address: 250 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Located at Jordan Road.
Why you should go: This is a cowboy-themed restaurant that offers a wide variety of Sedona cuisine, made using locally sourced fresh farm produce.
It is famous for its tasty barbeque sandwiches and hamburgers. But it also serves other foods which you can select from its menu.
Best time to visit
- Open daily from 11 am to 5 pm.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 11 minutes.
Things to do: Test the culinary scene in Sedona by visiting Outlaw Grille for lunch or early dinner. It is perfect for meeting and socializing with locals.
17. Cathedral Rock
Google Review: 4.8/5
- Stands at 4,967 ft.
- Found in Yuvapai County.
Why you should go: This is one of the most photographed attractions in Arizona. It is a sandstone butte found in Coconino Forest.
The rock contains a vortex at Red Rock Crossing. The vortex is claimed to contain feminine energy that helps visitors feel well rested and creative after the hike.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 15 minutes.
Things to do: Hike the 1.2 miles to the top and enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the landscape below and around you.
Visit this site to experience the feminine energy or find if you will feel it.
18. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
Google Review: 4.8/5
Address: 2650 Pueblo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Spiritual site.
- 14 acres of land.
- Dates back to about 2,600 years ago.
Why you should go: If you are into spirituality you must have this park in your plan of coolest things to do in Sedona. It is set in a serene and scenic landscape and offers a perfect atmosphere for prayer and meditation.
It doesn’t matter your faith, Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park will give you a spiritual refuge.
Best time to visit
- Open daily from morning to evening.
Ticket Prices
- Free to enter
- Voluntary donations are encouraged.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 11 minutes.
Things to do: Make your way to this park to enjoy some peaceful and quiet time. Say your prayers and do your meditation by the Amitabha and Tara Stupas.
The Stupa is located at the root of Thunder Mountain and gives a scenic view of Sedona.
If you planning to get a trip in other cities in Arizona, here is list of fun things to do in Scottsdale and the top resorts in Tucson!
19. Devil’s Bridge Trail
- Found in Coconino Natural Forest.
- Hiking site.
- 1.8 miles roundtrip.
Why you should go: This is one of the most renowned landmarks in Sedona and the largest sandstone arch in the city. If you are not afraid of heights, this spot will fascinate you.
If you are afraid of heights but would like to challenge yourself, it is a perfect destination to visit.
Best time to visit
- Open daily from 9.30 am to 3 pm.
Ticket Prices
- You only need to purchase a Red Rock pass for $5.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 24 minutes.
Things to do: Hike this beautiful sandstone and be rewarded with one of the most beautiful views once you are at the top.
It is a short and easy hike, although you might end up doing a longer hike, depending on where you park your car.
20. Boynton Canyon Trail
Google Review: 4.8/5
Address: Boynton Canyon Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Children friendly.
- 866 ft. elevation gain.
Why you should go: This trail is another vortex attraction site claimed to possess spiritual energy.
Boynton Canyon Trail is perfect for hiking as it offers stunning views of regions of Red Rock County. It is a favorite among most travelers since they can enjoy the hike as a family together with their children.
Best time to visit
- Open daily.
Ticket Prices
- You only need to purchase a Red Rock pass for $5.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 19 minutes.
Things to do: Apart from offering scenic views, Boynton Canyon Trail gives travelers a chance to see various animals and birds like lizards, black bears, Gila monsters, and the colorful blue jay.
21. Sedona Stargazing
Why you should go: Stargazing should be on your list of things to do in Sedona. It is one of the most fulfilling experiences you will have in this city.
Skilled astronomers will provide you with wide-field binoculars and stat-of-the-art telescopes and guide you through this dreamlike experience.
Best time to visit
- All months except July and August.
Ticket Prices
- From $40 to $70 per person
Things to do: Sedona is one of the best destinations for stargazing in the United States. This is owing to its awesome climate which ensures clear skies at night ideal for this event.
You will spot over 5 celestial bodies, and learn a lot about stars and other planets, from the expert astronomers.
22. Red Rock Balloons
Google Review: 4.5/5
Address: 273 AZ-89A M & N, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Experience Sedona from the sky
Why you should go: You can hike Sedona’s attraction sites or visit them in off-road jeeps, but no experience matches touring the Sedona landscape and attraction sites in a hot air balloon.
The balloon ride will give you a chance to see all the famous attraction sites from an aerial view. It is the perfect adventure to enjoy with loved ones.
Best time to visit
- Balloon rides are done early in the morning before sunrise.
Ticket Prices
- Balloon rides cost between $170 and $200.
Things to do: Make lasting memories by flying over major attractions in Red Rock Country like the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Cathedral Rock, among others.
From an aerial view you will be able to spot details and wildlife that could not have otherwise been easy to spot on a normal ground excursion.
Witness sunrise over the Red Rock Country.
23. Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art
Google Review: 4.8/5
Address: 561 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Art and jewelry gallery.
- Opened in 1996.
Why you should go: This is the biggest art and jewelry gallery in Arizona, and one of the top twenty five galleries in the nation.
It features both modern and classic glass art, jewelry, sculpture and modern paintings.
Best time to visit
- Opens daily from 10 am to 5.30 pm.
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 15 minutes.
Things to do: Visit this award-winning gallery to see art displays in the institution’s exhibits. You can purchase stunning art pieces that please your eyes.
24. Crescent Moon Picnic Site
Google Review: 4.7/5
Address: 333 Red Rock Crossing Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Family-friendly attraction.
Why you should go: Located at Red Rock crossing, the point where the vortex begins as you approach Cathedral Rock, this picnic site is popular for fishing and swimming.
Set up a picnic area share this stunning view of the Cathedral Rock and the nearby Oak Creek River.
Best time to visit
- Open daily from 7 am to 8 pm.
Ticket Prices
- $11 per vehicle with a capacity of 5.
- $2 for extra passengers and walk-ins
Distance from Sedona Airport
- 19 minutes.
Things to do: You can either enjoy a quiet and relaxed picnic or participate in the activities available on site.
Apart from swimming and fishing in Oak Creek, engage in outdoor activities like hiking, waterplay, and photography.
25. Pink Jeep Tours
Google Review: 4.8/5
Address: 204 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Established in 1960.
- Off-road adventure.
Why you should go: Pink Jeep Tours are famous for offering the most exciting off-road adventures in their jeep wranglers.
These tours are for anyone who wants to explore famous attractions in Sedona like the Grand Canyon, but does not want to hike or use traditional touring vehicles.
You should book a tour in advance.
Things to do: Whether you want to go on an off-road adventure, a cultural, and historical or luxury tour around the city, Pink Jeep Tours have tailor-made packages that cover anything you want.
Their tours are guided and thus educative as they are entertaining.
The Conclusion
Sedona is a hikers’ paradise.
It offers some of the most beautiful hiking grounds and attractions in the America. And none of them is a boring site. You will have fun, learn, and make beautiful memories during your vacation.
This list of 25 things to do in Sedona is part of this process to help you create beautiful memories.
That’s all for today. I can’t wait to hear all about your experiences in Sedona.
Enjoy your visit and stay adventurous!