24 Best Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona (2025 Guide + Map!)

Sedona, Arizona is one of the best places in the world to visit if you need spiritual rejuvenation. Or good food. Or an adventurous escape. I could go on and on… but basically, there is always a good reason to visit Sedona!

In this guide, I will detail some of the best things to do in Sedona, Arizona from adventurous activities to tasty food and beyond!

Known for its vibrant red rocks and dramatic landscapes, Sedona has plenty to offer those coming to explore it. From the Honanki Heritage Site to the Montezuma Castle, I will discuss the best attractions in Sedona, as well as some of the most popular day trips and activities.

Outside of its sacred aura, Sedona is also a great place to get in touch with the city’s creative side as you visit its art galleries, boutiques, and delicious dining options, like Elote Cafe (my favorite Sedona spot!).

In this guide, I will cover what to do in Sedona for first-time visitors. If you have any suggestions or comments, please leave them below. Thanks!

Best Time to Visit Sedona

Given that it’s in Arizona, Sedona is somewhat warm all year round (December and January are the coldest months with average highs of 58F) and you’re sure to find plenty to do no matter what time of the year you choose to visit.

However, many travelers find that the best time to visit is between March and May. The temperatures are not unbearable, and you get to see all of nature and wildflowers in bloom. But, there are plenty of cool things to do in Sedona in winter, as well.

If you want to participate in activities such as Jeep tours and biking, it’s suggested that you visit between September and November. However, do keep in mind that spring and fall are when the prices for accommodations are the highest.

Best Things to Do in Sedona

1. Hike the Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock Loop Trail

If you are looking for an easy hike that will treat you to the majestic scenery of two of Sedona’s most iconic formations, then add the Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock Loop Trail to your Sedona bucket list.

This moderate 4.5-mile loop trail will allow you to witness Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, Cathedral Rock, and plenty of wildlife all within one trek!

The hike is relatively flat, which makes it suitable for everyone taking to the trail. It can be enjoyed year-round, although the best time to hike is spring and fall when the sun isn’t scorching, but do expect big crowds whenever you go as it is popular.

There are two trailhead parking lots: Bell Rock Trailhead North and Yavapai Vista Point. Be aware that you need a Red Rock Pass to access these parking lots and a lot of Sedona’s sites ($5 a day currently). You can learn more about it here.

2. Go on a Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure

One of the top things to do for families and those visiting Sedona is to embark on an adventure on the Verde Canyon Railroad! This journey takes you through 110 years of history on a 4-hour trip through Arizona’s desert and mountainous landscapes.

You will hug the scenic Verde River in a vintage train wagon, open-air platform car, or caboose that will take you to places that are hard to reach without booking the trip.

On the journey, you will pass through a century-old, 734-foot tunnel that will show off the Sinagua cliff dwellings, high-desert flora and fauna, the Verde Canyon, and historic mining sites.

The trip is about 3.5 hours long and available year-round (but check dates as they can be fewer during certain times of the year).

>> Click here to check Verde Canyon Railroad rates and availability

3. Peruse Uptown Sedona

One of the can’t-miss stops on your Sedona itinerary has to be checking out Uptown! It is the city’s Main Street District and you can enjoy tasty food, shopping options, and more!

Your first stop should be the Sedona Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (331 Forest Road) where you can get your bearings and figure out what you want to see.

If you’re into art, you will find a lot of galleries showing off the works of local and regional artists. Nature lovers will enjoy the Jordan Trail, which has its trailhead nearby – it is a great place to take in the red rock landscapes of Sedona!

If you’re after food, check out Salt Rock Kitchen or the Hudson. Be sure to get your hands on some Southwestern cuisine while in Uptown, especially if you’re traveling from somewhere far outside the region.

There are also several places to shop, including a lot of unique boutiques. Sedona Candle Magic, Bonanza Flutes and Jewelry (great for Native American pieces!), and Blackbird Vintage are a few great spots to check out. There are also quite a few others at Sedona Original Uptown Mall Plaza.

Be sure to also check out the Sedona Arts Center, which is home to a plethora of treasures like jewelry, textiles, paintings, and more.

4. Explore Sedona’s Vortexes by Jeep

People travel from all over the world to experience the vortexes in Sedona… and you can learn more and experience them yourself on a Jeep tour!

The vortexes in Sedona are alleged swirling energy centers that are said to lead to a spiritual awakening that can heal you. Sedona is thought to be one of the places on the planet that has vortexes and there are four within the city that are famous: Boynton Canyon, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Cathedral Rock.

This 2.5-hour Jeep tour will help you uncover the mystical nature of each site, explore the powers of the vortex in your own way, and return completely rejuvenated.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for a Jeep tour

5. Discover the Tlaquepaque Art Village

Your Sedona trip won’t be complete without a visit to the internationally renowned Tlaquepaque Art Village, located on the banks of Oak Creek.

It is an outdoor shopping center built around the sycamores with a unique architectural style and atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re shopping in the middle of a traditional village. The timeless beauty of the area is preserved in its cobblestone walkways, vine-covered stucco walls, and arched entryways.

Be sure to set aside a few hours to browse through the complex to see Sedona artisans making masterpieces and find unique souvenirs to take home after your Sedona trip!

Tlaquepaque features 5 restaurants and over 50 art galleries and specialty shops packed with Southwestern fine art paintings, bronze sculptures, blown glassworks, weavings, architectural décor pieces, large format photography, fine contemporary jewelry, and more.

The art village calls itself the ‘Art and Soul of Sedona’ and I think that is very cute! You can learn more about the place on their website.

6. Hike to Iconic Cathedral Rock

In my mind, there is one place that comes to mind every time I think of Sedona and that place is Cathedral Rock! And you can hike to the natural sandstone butte that is one of Arizona’s most photographed places.

The challenging 1.2-mile, out-and-back Cathedral Rock Trail is the best hike to take you there. The trail is immensely popular despite its difficulty, so be prepared to share the trail. Dogs, however, are not permitted on it.

To avoid parking traffic, you need to get a spot at Back O Beyond Road very early. You can read more tips about hiking to Cathedral Rock from fellow bloggers, Earth Trekkers.

To hike the Cathedral Rock from the west, you have two trailhead options to choose from: 4-mile round trip Red Rock Crossing which takes 2-4 hours, and 3.7-mile round trip Baldwin Trail which takes 1.5-3 hours. So you do have a couple of options!

Once you reach your final destination, you will be swept away by mesmerizing views that serve as the perfect backdrop for that Instagram-worthy shot.

7. Take a Day Trip to the Grand Canyon

Is it your first time in Arizona? If so, I have to assume that you have the Grand Canyon on your bucket list! And, it can be seen as a day trip from Sedona.

You can drive there in your own car (or a rental), but you can also take a tour there which will save you the effort of having to navigate one of America’s busiest national parks on your own.

I am only detailing how to do this with a tour as driving there independently is pretty straightforward (it is about 2 hours away). And this tour is a small-group option, with no more than 14 people on it.

The trip departs from Flagstaff or Sedona (whichever you pick) and you will visit lava fields from extinct volcanoes, visit the Wupatki Monument, and see the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument… all before arriving at the magnificent Grand Canyon.

You will drive along the South Rim and East Rim, stop to take in the panoramic views of the Grand Canyon and explore the scenic areas and hiking trails.

Once you’ve visited some of the highlights, you will grab a Southwestern lunch on a Navajo Reservation at the historic Cameron Trading Post.

>> Click here to check Grand Canyon day trip rates and availability

8. Explore the Craft Beer Scene in Sedona 

After a long day exploring Sedona’s red rock scenery, it’s time to treat yourself to a refreshing beer in one of the area’s best breweries.

Beer lovers should first head to the Sedona Beer Company to enjoy a beer brewed with ingredients from the Verde Valley, along with their mouth-watering chorizo mac & cheese.

Next, hit up Oak Creek Brewing Company, Sedona’s oldest craft brewery (around since 1995), to try their signature Oak Creek’s Nut Brown Ale.

Be sure to also check out Verde Brewing Company in the nearby Cottonwood/Camp Verde area. It is a farm-to-mug brewery that started in 2013 and has some really cool experimental beers that offer something new each time you step in to visit.

9. Hike the Boynton Canyon Trail to One of Sedona’s Vortexes

The Boynton Canyon Trail is one of the top hikes in Sedona. This picturesque box canyon, home to one of the four major Sedona vortexes, is a must-visit for adventurers and spiritual travelers.

The 6.1-mile out-and-back Boynton Canyon Trail will take you through typical Sedona forests and a deep box canyon where you can feel the powerful energy while you look out for Arizona wildlife along the way.

Other highlights of the Boynton Canyon Trail are the secret Subway Cave and Sinagua ruins. At the end of the trail, expect to catch a glimpse of the surrounding landscapes of Boynton Canyon from your viewpoint.

The trail is open year-round and offers dramatic scenery changes every season! Even during the cooler winter months.

If you’re interested in visiting the energy vortex, then make sure to take the Boynton Vista Trail, which will also allow you to take in the vistas of Mescal Mountain, Deadman’s Pass, and Courthouse Butte in the distance. 

10. Go on an Outback Jeep Adventure

So many Sedona tours are Jeep tours and I am not mad about it! On this one, you can explore the land with Sedona Outback Jeep Adventures. This is a great option for travelers in small groups and even kids as it is not too rough but allows you to see the red rocks that the city is famous for.

The departure point is in Uptown Sedona, and the tour should have no more than 10 people on it. A local guide and driver will help you learn more about the local history while you discover Arizona geology and witness its flora and fauna firsthand.

The Jeep will pass several iconic landmarks and viewpoints in Sedona like Cathedral Rock, Thunder Mountain, Bear Mountain, and more.

>> Click here to check outback Jeep adventure rates and availability

11. Head to the Bearcloud Art Gallery

Escape the alluring red rocks for an hour or two by checking out the Bearcloud Art Gallery in Sedona. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces created by Bearcloud, Jane Osti, Navajo potter Lucy Luppe McKelvey, and many other Native American and local artists.

Besides Bearcloud’s paintings, you can also see handmade jewelry designs from Stoneweave, Gadomski’s Ojibwa-inspired Kachina-like Manitou sculptures, and more.

12. Spend Part of the Day at the Oak Creek Vista

If you’re looking for an easy way to get some stellar views over northern Arizona, head to the Oak Creek Canyon Vista, which is often referred to as the “Gateway to Sedona.”

Once there, you’ll find an ADA-accessible railed pathway that welcomes every visitor! Oak Creek Vista is located between Sedona and Flagstaff right off 89A.

The vista offers views (naturally!) but one of the best reasons to head there is to check out the Native American art vendors that set up booths along the paved walkway. You can purchase everything from crafts, pottery, blankets, jewelry, artwork, and more.

Oak Creek Vista is open all year, although the Visitor Center is closed from December to early April.

13. Relax at the NAMTI Spa

When you need a break from the red rock scenery and trails, swap out your hiking boots for something more chilled-out and head to the NAMTI Spa.

While I am not a spa person myself (I am learning to be one as I get older, but still not there), I do know that so many people travel to Sedona for spa treatments and to restore their wellness, so I definitely wanted to add one that has been recommended to me time and time again!

NAMTI Spa offers a wide range of services, including facials, waxing, deep tissue massages, acupuncture (both needle and needle-free), therapeutic massages, medi-spa rejuvenation, and more.

14. Rent an ATV in Sedona for Half a Day

Looking to experience Sedona uniquely? Check out these ATV rental options that will allow you to explore Sedona, unlike any other way. And… this is beginner-friendly!

These RZR ATV rentals offer heart-racing adventures along scenic trails in Sedona where you can check out Native American ruins, canyons, and more. The rental comes equipped with a GPS and map so you won’t have to worry about getting lost along the way!

Fuel is included and you can choose from 1, 2, 4, or 6-seater options while you cruise along jamming with your Bluetooth speaker. These Polaris lease vehicles are unique and wheelchair-accessible. But it is not recommended to rent one if you’re pregnant, have heart problems, or suffer from back pain.

>> Click here to check Sedona ATV rental rates and availability

15. See Sedona’s Largest Sandstone Arch at Devilʻs Bridge

Located in the heart of Coconino National Forest, Devil’s Bridge is the largest sandstone arch of its kind in Sedona. This 54-foot-tall and 45-foot-long natural wonder is the centerpiece of the surrounding red rock scenery.

Make sure to arrive early to find parking. Just note that you may need to wait in line to snap that perfect Instagram-worthy shot once at the top.

You have two routes that can get you to the top of Devil’s Bridge. The first one is a moderate 4.2-mile round trip from Mescal to Chuckwagon to Devil’s Bridge Trail from Long Canyon Road, while the other is the 5.8-mile round trip Chuckwagon Trail to the Devil’s Bridge Trail from Dry Creek Road.

You can learn more about hiking this trail as a beginner here.

16. Visit Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

If you are looking to experience Sedona’s spiritual renewal and indulge in meditation, then Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, situated at the base of Thunder Mountain, is the place to go!

Fourteen acres of sacred land welcome people of all faiths to meditate and walk around the stupas to find healing and peace. The park’s main highlight is the 36-foot Amitabha Stupa, which got its name from the Buddha of Limitless Light.

Nearby, you will find a smaller 6-foot White Tara Stupa, which is great for prayer, meditation, and healing. The ornate architectural style and geometry of the stupa dates back to the time of the Buddha, 2,600 years ago, and can be seen all over the world, like Nepal, etc.

These stupas, like the rest of the world’s, are filled to the very top with sacred relics. It is free to visit the park, but donations are welcome. You can learn more on their official website.

17. Join a Wine Tour of the Verde Valley

Are you keen to discover Sedona’s winemaking heritage? If so, make sure to take part in this wine adventure to the Verde Valley vineyards.

You’ll hop aboard a custom-built Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Turtle Top Van, or Ford Expedition, and head out to the Verde Valley to explore four of the best Sedona wineries!

Your first stop will be Alcantara Vineyards and Winery, one of Arizona’s most beautiful wineries, where you can enjoy discounts on all tastings.

Then you will stop at Page Springs Cellars, Verde Valley’s largest winery, followed by Javelina Leap Vineyard, Winery & Bistro, where you’ll tour the facilities and barrel room. Your tour will wrap up at Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery.

Along the way, you will have a picnic at one of the wineries which will feature a personal charcuterie tray for each individual on your tour.

It (should!) include French bread, hard salami, gourmet cheeses, grapes, olive oil with balsamic vinegar, nuts, and chocolates: everything that pairs perfectly with a glass of red or white wine.

>> Click here for rates and availability of a Verde Valley wine tour

18. Visit the Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art

Art enthusiasts will love checking out the Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art on their Arizona trip!

This gallery is located in the heart of Sedona’s “Gallery Row” on State Route 179 and was named “Best Gallery in Sedona” and “One of the 25 Best Galleries in America.” It was created in 1996 by Marty and Diane Herman and has been a national trendsetter in the industry for the last 20 years.

Upon arrival, you will enter the sculpture garden that will lead you to the main viewing room, which unveils slowly with every turn.

The 20,000-square-foot museum houses masterpieces created by over 100 of today’s finest living artists, including bronze sculptures, glass art, designer jewelry, fountains, original color-splashed paintings, photography, and more. 

19. Drive Up to Slide Rock State Park

Tucked away in the Oak Creek Canyon within the Coconino National Forest, Slide Rock State Park will whisk you away on an outdoor adventure not too far away from Sedona!

Once serving as a 43-acre historic apple farm owned by Frank Pendley, visitors can still enjoy apple picking from more than 300 apple trees and appreciate Pendley’s hard work.

The state park’s main highlight is Oak Creek, where you can cool off from the summer heat while sliding down Slide Rock, an 80-foot-long natural slippery red rock slide at the bottom of Oak Creek Canyon.

Slide Rock area is a half-mile stretch of Oak Creek and is perfect for swimming, wading, and sliding, as its name suggests!

For those who love hiking, the park also is home to three trails so you can admire the scenery and rich wildlife (whitetail deer, coyotes, javelinas, and black bears) along the way. These three trails are the easy 0.25-mile Pendley Homestead Trail, the moderate 0.3-mile Slide Rock Route, and the 0.25-mile Clifftop Nature Trail. 

20. Go Stargazing in Sedona (and Nearby)

Arizona has some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country and it is something everyone can enjoy! While you’re free to head out independently, you can also do it with a guided tour.

This Sedona stargazing excursion offers a nighttime gateway to Oak Creek, Arizona, led by professional astronomers, who will share in-depth information and secrets of the solar system with you.

The tour is an hour long and you’ll get your own pair of wide-view binoculars and a chair. Telescopes will also be brought along for use. Blankets and parkas are included! This is not a wheelchair-accessible experience and will have a maximum of 6 people.

>> Click here to check Sedona stargazing excursion rates and availability

21. Marvel at the Chapel of the Holy Cross

Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the best Sedona attractions and certainly one of the most iconic. And it is a must-visit and itinerary essential. Situated in the middle of Sedona’s buttes, the unique building was designed by local rancher and sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude with the help of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Its original location was thought to be Budapest, Hungary, but WWII altered those plans and the chapel was built in the Coconino National Forest in 1956 instead.

You can visit this Catholic chapel seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to attend Taizé Prayer services. Once you enter, you can see the main stained-glass window, held together by a giant cross that overlooks the Verde Valley.

Active travelers can hike the nearby 1.3-mile, out-and-back Chapel Trail that will lead you to the scenic Chicken Point Overlook. It is a family-friendly trail and pretty easy.

22. Enjoy Lunch or Dinner With a View at the Hideaway House

Treat yourself to Italian country-style cuisine at the Hideaway House. This gorgeous restaurant is tucked away among the trees and offers the best views of Sedona’s red rock landscape while you indulge!

Start with their delicious appetizers that will whet your appetite for the restaurant’s most popular dishes, such as Lasagna Rollatini di Vegetali. You can then enjoy one of their homemade desserts like tiramisu or Ghiradelli chocolate flourless cake.

Their hours change with the season so check out their website to plan your visit accordingly.

23. Take a Day Trip to Antelope Canyon

Immerse yourself in Arizona’s otherworldly landscapes by planning a day trip to Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon that is only accessible with a Navajo guide (and proper planning).

The best way to see Antelope Canyon, in my opinion, is to book a tour from Sedona that will arrange everything for you… and also take you to Horseshoe Bend!

This is an all-day getaway, so make sure you have enough days in Sedona to accommodate. Your tour will start with driving to and through Navajo lands with stops where you can admire the arts and crafts of the tribe, as well as grab food and souvenirs at Cameron Trading Post.

Along with your stop at Horseshoe Bend, you will make a stop at Glen Canyon Dam, the second-largest one in the United States.

>> Click here to check Antelope Canyon day tour rates and availability

24. Try the Mole Braised Short Ribs at Tii Gavo

Hungry travelers will need to head for some tasty Southwestern fare at Tii Gavo Restaurant, which is tucked inside the Enchantment Resort. They offer top-notch service and a diverse menu that includes plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

Don’t miss out on trying some of Tii Gavo’s signature dishes, such as Chicharron & Arugula salad, Southwest Black Bean Burger, Tamale Bowls with mole-braised short rib, Ahi Grilled Churrasco with creamed local greens and street tacos, etc. I recommend their mole though! Especially if you’ve never tried it before!

Sedona Attractions & Things to Do (On a Map!)

Did I miss any amazing places to visit in Sedona? Let me know the best things to do in Sedona in the comments. Thanks!

More Sedona Travel Guides

• Sedona in winter
• Day trips from Sedona

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