Updated April 8th, 2026
Looking for the best things to do in Sedona, Arizona? This guide covers everything you need to plan your trip—from iconic hikes like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge to scenic viewpoints, family-friendly activities, and can’t-miss local spots.
Sedona is known for its stunning red rock landscapes, easy access to hiking trails, and mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, a day trip, or part of an Arizona road trip, there are plenty of experiences to fit every travel style.
In this guide, you’ll find a curated list of the top things to do in Sedona, including must-see attractions, hidden gems, and practical tips to help you plan your visit efficiently.
First Time in Sedona? Start Here
- Best first hike: Bell Rock Pathway
- Best sunset: Airport Mesa
- Best family stop: Slide Rock State Park
- Best photo spot: Devil’s Bridge
- Best easy scenic stop: Chapel of the Holy Cross
Quick Answer: What are the best things to do in Sedona?
The best things to do in Sedona include hiking Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge, visiting Chapel of the Holy Cross, exploring Slide Rock State Park, taking a jeep tour, and enjoying sunset views at Airport Mesa.
Best Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona
Sedona offers a mix of outdoor adventure, scenic views, and relaxing experiences, making it one of the most popular destinations in Arizona. From iconic hikes to family-friendly attractions, here are the best things to do in Sedona.
Top 10 Things to Do in Sedona (Quick Picks for First-Time Visitors)
- Cathedral Rock Trail – Iconic hike, glowing at sunset
- Devil’s Bridge – Natural sandstone arch, perfect photo-op
- Slide Rock State Park – Swim and slide in Oak Creek
- Chapel of the Holy Cross – Chapel built into red rocks
- Bell Rock Pathway – Easy family hike + vortex site
- Airport Mesa – Best sunset + panoramic views
- West Fork Trail – Shady creekside hike, stunning fall colors
- Broken Arrow Jeep Tour – Off-road thrills with epic views
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village – Galleries, shops, dining
- Mariposa Latin Grill – Fine dining with breathtaking red rock views
Quick Planner
- Best time to visit: March–May & September–November (mild temps, golden light).
- How long you need: 2–3 days for highlights; 4–5 for hikes + day trips.
- Getting around: A car is best. Parking fills early at popular trailheads.
- Passes: Many trailheads require a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful pass. Check signage.
- Safety: Carry water (more than you think), sun protection, grippy shoes. Start early to beat heat/crowds.
- Family-friendly picks: Slide Rock State Park, Bell Rock Pathway, Uptown Sedona, Pink Jeep Tours.
Best Scenic Views and Landmarks in Sedona
Cathedral Rock (Iconic)
Why go: Classic Sedona views; the rock glows at sunset.
Quick Facts: Short but steep | Scrambling near the top | Best at golden hour
Devil’s Bridge (Instagram Favorite)
Why go: Natural sandstone bridge overlooking a canyon.
Quick Facts: ~4 mi RT (via official trail) | Moderate | Go early to avoid lines for photos
Airport Mesa (Sunset + Vortex)
Why go: Panoramic overlook close to town; famous energy spot.
Quick Facts: Limited parking | Arrive 30–45 mins before sunset
Red Rock Crossing (Crescent Moon Picnic Site)
Why go: Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek—postcard Sedona.
Quick Facts: Day-use fee | Flat trails + picnic tables | Great for families
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Why go: Modernist chapel built into the rock with sweeping views.
Quick Facts: Small lot. Go early for quiet and easy parking
Coffee Pot Rock & Snoopy Rock
Why go: Fun, family-friendly “spot the shape” landmarks visible from town.
Best Hikes in Sedona
Sedona is known for some of the most scenic hiking trails in Arizona, with options ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs with incredible red rock views.
Tip: Start early, especially in warmer months. Bring at least 1 liter of water per hour and download offline maps before heading out.
Easy to Moderate Hikes
- Bell Rock Pathway (vortex site, wide trail, great for kids)
- West Fork Trail (Oak Creek Canyon) (shaded, creek crossings, stunning fall colors)
- Courthouse Butte Loop (~4 mi loop; big scenery, fewer crowds than Cathedral)
- Seven Sacred Pools (via Soldier Pass) (seasonal pools after rain; pair with Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole)
Short + Rewarding Hikes
- Doe Mountain (quick climb to a mesa with 360° views—sunrise or sunset gem)
- Airport Loop (loop with constant views; tack on the Overlook)
More Challenging / Unique Trails
- Boynton Canyon (vortex area + box canyon views)
- Mogollon Rim tracks (4×4 or guided—massive panoramas above the red rocks)
More Trails to Explore
Fay Canyon, Huckaby Trail, Mescal Trail, Brins Mesa, Baldwin Trail, Cathedral Rock via Templeton (for creek access), and Schnebly Hill Vista.
Water Play & Picnic Spots
- Slide Rock State Park (natural red-rock water slide—arrive early)
- Grasshopper Point (deep pools + big boulders for sunning)
- Oak Creek (various pull-offs; always pack out trash and check flows)
Best Scenic Drives in Sedona, Arizona
- Airport Road (fast access to elevated views and the Scenic Lookout)
- Schnebly Hill Road (high-clearance/4×4 for dramatic overlooks)
- Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR-179) (Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, chapel spurs)
- Mogollon Rim (4×4 climb to sweeping views)
Unique Things to Do in Sedona
- Vortex Spots: Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, Cathedral Rock
- Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park: Walk, reflect, spin prayer wheels
- Sound Bath or Gong Meditation: Deep relaxation sessions around town
- Reiki & Chakra Balancing: Wellness practitioners throughout Sedona
- Aura Photos/Readings: Fun keepsake (and conversation starter)
- Stargazing: Dark skies reveal Milky Way (join a guided night-sky tour)
- Yoga with a View: Outdoor classes at resorts and studios
- Spiritual Readings: Sedona Energy Healing
Check out Mystical Hikes in Sedona’s Vorteces
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Sedona
- Uptown Sedona (shopping, treats, views; also called Downtown Sedona)
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village (cobblestones, galleries, boutiques, events)
- Sedona Heritage Museum (local history + kid-friendly exhibits)
- Gallery Row & Kokopelli Gallery (browsing + art hunts for kids)
- Posse Grounds Park (playground + picnic)
- Sunset Park Splash Pad (seasonal splash time)
- Rainbow Trout Farm (stocked fishing; guaranteed kid smiles)
- Farmers Market (Sundays; local produce and snacks)
Nearby Animal Fun: Out of Africa Wildlife Park (Camp Verde; giraffes, shows).
Shopping, Coffee & Strolls in Sedona
For a more relaxed pace, Sedona also has great spots for shopping, coffee, and casual strolling—perfect between hikes or at the end of the day.
- Uptown Sedona (souvenirs, snacks, views)
- The Collective Sedona (Village of Oak Creek) (shops + food)
- Hyatt Piñon Pointe Shops (convenient retail cluster)
- Grab-and-Gaze: “Coffee + a view” is a Sedona art form—plenty of cafés with patios.
Sedona Tours and Experiences
- Broken Arrow Jeep Tour (Pink Jeep) (classic off-road thrills + geology stories)
- Hot Air Balloon Ride (sunrise over red rock country; celebratory toast)
- Open-Air Bus Sightseeing Tour (great overview without hiking)
- Horseback Riding (desert canyons the old-school way)
- Rock Climbing (Guided) (routes for beginners and up; epic rock quality)
- Mountain Biking (guided options; resorts like Enchantment can arrange)
- Fishing: Oak Creek (wild) + Rainbow Trout Farm (stocked)
Food & Drink (Tried-and-True Favorites)
- Elote Café (inventive Mexican; reservations recommended)
- Cucina Rustica (romantic, Italian-leaning; warm service)
- Vino Di Sedona (wine bar + tapas; live music some nights)
- Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen (GF-friendly pizzas/pastas/salads)
- Oaxaca Restaurant – Mexican food downtown
- Pisa Lisa (great pies + gelato; fast and family-friendly)
- Cowboy Club (ribs, jalapeño cornbread; Western vibe)
- Layla’s Bakery-Café (quick pastries—almond croissants go fast!)
- Coffee Pot Restaurant (breakfast institution since 1974)
- Rocky Rd Ice Cream Co. (classic treats; GF/vegan options)
- The Chai Spot (homemade chai + artisan goods)
- ShadowRock Tap + Table (Hilton at Bell Rock)
- Mariposa (Latin-inspired grill with WOW views).
- L’Auberge de Sedona (upscale, romantic riverside dining)
Get your caffeine on: 20 Best Coffee Shops in Sedona
Sedona Wine Country (Nearby)
If you have extra time, exploring Sedona’s nearby wine country is a great addition to your trip. The Verde Valley is home to several wineries and scenic tasting rooms, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon or day trip.
- Alcantara Vineyards
- Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery
- Sedona Wine Cellar
- Verde Valley Wine Trail
This area pairs perfectly with a visit to nearby towns like Cottonwood or Jerome.
Best Spas and Relaxation in Sedona
Sedona is known for its relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind after hiking or exploring. From luxury resort spas to wellness experiences, there are plenty of ways to relax in Sedona.
- Mii Amo (Enchantment Resort) (world-renowned spa; book ahead)
- Resort Spas across town (yoga, massages, facials, outdoor soaking)
2 Great Sample Itineraries
2 Days (Highlights Sprint)
Day 1: Bell Rock Pathway → Chapel of the Holy Cross → Tlaquepaque lunch → Airport Mesa sunset → Dinner at Elote Café
Day 2: Devil’s Bridge (early) → Slide Rock State Park (midday) → Uptown browsing → Pink Jeep Broken Arrow → Tapas & music at Vino Di Sedona
4 Days (Balanced Adventure)
Hike Cathedral Rock Trail.
Day 1: West Fork Trail → Sedona Heritage Museum → Rocky Rd Ice Cream Co.
Day 2: Cathedral Rock (sunrise) → Crescent Moon picnic → Sound bath/Reiki → Mariposa at sunset
Day 3: Boynton Canyon hike → Winery hopping (Verde Valley Wine Trail) → Cottonwood dinner
Day 4: Jerome morning + Verde Canyon Railroad or Grand Canyon day trip
Related Guides
- Things to Do at Bearizona Wildlife Park
- Things to Do at Blazin’ M Ranch
- Fun Things to Do in Williams, Arizona
- Out of Africa
Quick Facts
- Hiking & Water → Collapsible Water Bottle
- Shoes → Women’s Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe
- Kids Gear → Sun Protection Shirt for Kids
- Cooling Tool (Slide Rock/swim spots) → Quick-Dry Microfiber Towel
- Daypack → Osprey Daylite Daypack.
Best Day Trips and Things to Do Near Sedona
If you’re planning a longer stay, adding a few day trips from Sedona is one of the best ways to experience more of Arizona.
- If you have extra time, there are several incredible places to visit near Sedona that are worth adding to your itinerary. These nearby destinations offer a mix of history, scenic views, and unique experiences.
- Jerome – A historic mining town with unique shops and hillside views
- Cottonwood – Great for wineries, restaurants, and a relaxed small-town vibe
- Montezuma Castle National Monument – Well-preserved cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people
- Wupatki National Monument – Ancient pueblos and desert landscapes
- Verde Canyon Railroad – Scenic train ride through red rock country
- Grand Canyon (South Rim) – About 2 hours away and perfect for a day trip
Sedona Travel FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Sedona?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the most popular times thanks to mild weather and beautiful colors. Winter offers smaller crowds, while summer brings hot days but also great hotel deals.
How many days should I spend in Sedona?
Two to three days is enough to see the highlights, hike a few trails, and enjoy Sedona’s dining scene. For a deeper experience—like wineries, multiple hikes, and day trips—plan four to five days.
Is Sedona family-friendly?
Absolutely. Families love Slide Rock State Park, the Sedona Trolley, Uptown shops, and easy hiking trails like Bell Rock Pathway. Many tours, including Pink Jeep Tours, are kid-friendly too.
What are Sedona’s must-see landmarks?
Don’t miss Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Devil’s Bridge, Airport Mesa at sunset, and the Seven Sacred Pools along Soldier Pass Trail.
Do I need a car in Sedona?
Yes. Sedona is spread out and attractions are short drives apart. A car gives you flexibility, but shuttles and guided tours are also available.
What should I pack for Sedona?
Comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing (temperatures change quickly), sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and a refillable water bottle are essentials.
