Sedona, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to see the stunning beauty of Sedona, Arizona? This desert oasis is famous for its amazing red rock formations and hiking trails. It also has a strong spiritual vibe. Sedona has many activities and attractions for every kind of traveler. Get ready to be amazed as we show you the best things to do here.

Key Takeaways

• Sedona's stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and vortex sites offer a unique outdoor experience.
• Explore the diverse art galleries, spiritual retreats, and luxury resorts that make Sedona a one-of-a-kind destination.
• Enjoy a variety of adventure activities, including jeep tours, hot air balloon rides, and wine tasting.
• Discover the charming Uptown Sedona, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine.
• Plan your perfect Sedona getaway by considering the best things to do and where to stay in this breathtaking Arizona town.

Overview of Sedona

Sedona, Arizona, is a stunning place in the American Southwest. It's split into West Sedona and Uptown Sedona, each with its own special vibe. These areas offer different attractions and experiences.

West Sedona

West Sedona is along Highway 89A and is bustling with life. It has many hotels, restaurants, and trails for hiking. This area lets visitors enjoy the natural beauty around them in a relaxed way.

Uptown Sedona

Uptown Sedona is north of the "Y" where Highways 89A and 179 meet. It's more urban and crowded, especially when it's busy with tourists. Here, you'll find shops, galleries, and places to eat.

Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon is north of Highway 89A and is a lush oasis. It's a peaceful place with forests and red rocks. It's great for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful views.

Village of Oak Creek and Cottonwood

Outside Sedona, the Village of Oak Creek and Cottonwood offer more places to eat, stay, and visit wineries. They're less crowded and more affordable than Sedona but still close to the main attractions.

Sedona has something for everyone, from the busy Uptown to the peaceful West Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon. The area is known for its diverse landscapes, culture, and outdoor activities. It's a true treasure of the American Southwest.

Visit the Landmarks of Sedona

Sedona, Arizona, is famous for its Sedona landmarks. These include Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Devils Bridge. These natural wonders let visitors see the stunning red rock formations. They also let people enjoy the area's beauty.

Bell Rock

Bell Rock is a top Sedona landmark known for its bell shape. You can see it from the road or hike trails around it. These trails let you get close and even climb on the rock.

Cathedral Rock

Cathedral Rock is another key Sedona landmark. It looks like a gothic cathedral. Hiking trails offer amazing views of this rock and the landscape around it.

Devils Bridge

The trail to Devils Bridge is a favorite in Sedona. This natural rock arch is a beloved Sedona landmark. The hike is worth it for the stunning views and the chance to stand on the bridge.

The View from Airport Mesa

The Airport Mesa viewpoint is great for seeing Sedona and its landmarks. It offers 360-degree views of the city and its famous red rocks. It's the perfect place to enjoy Sedona's beauty.

Chapel of the Holy Cross

In Sedona, Arizona, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a famous spot. It was finished in 1956. The Roman Catholic chapel was made by August K. Strotz. It took 18 months and about $300,000 to build.

The chapel is open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM. Visitors can see the beautiful views and the chapel's design. There are 45 parking spots, or you can take a Sedona Trolley tour that stops here for 15 minutes.

In 2007, the Chapel of the Holy Cross was named one of the Seven Man-made Wonders of Arizona. It's not just a Sedona landmark. It's also a place for weddings and a Taize Prayer service on Monday evenings.

A new bronze crucifix was added in 2018. It replaced the old one that got destroyed. This makes the Roman Catholic chapel in Sedona even more special.

"The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a unique and breathtaking architectural marvel that seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of Sedona. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this stunning region of Arizona."

Go on a Scenic Drive

If you want to see Sedona's famous red rock formations without hiking, there are three scenic drives. Start with the

Red Rock Scenic Byway

, an 8-mile stretch of Highway 179. It shows off landmarks like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. Then, head north to the

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road

, a 16-mile drive through a shaded canyon. This route highlights Sedona's natural beauty.

For a more relaxed adventure, try the

Red Rock Loop Road

, an 8-mile loop in West Sedona. It offers views of Cathedral Rock and other stunning red rocks. You can enjoy Sedona's beauty without long hikes.

"The scenic drives in Sedona are the perfect way to experience the area's natural wonders without exerting too much effort. Each route offers a unique perspective on the region's iconic red rocks and breathtaking scenery."

Choose from the Red Rock Scenic Byway, the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road, or the Red Rock Loop Road. These drives let you see Sedona's beauty easily. Bring a picnic, your camera, and get ready to be amazed by the stunning views.

Go Hiking

Sedona is a dream spot for hikers, with trails leading to amazing natural sights. You can see panoramic views from high red rock formations, explore calm canyons, and find hidden caves. The Sedona hiking experience is unforgettable. There are top hikes in Sedona for everyone, no matter your fitness level or interests.

The Devil's Bridge Trail is a favorite spot for hikers. It's a 4.2-mile hike roundtrip that takes you to a famous sandstone arch. You'll get amazing views and feel proud when you reach the bridge. The trail is moderate, so plan to spend about 2 hours hiking back.

• The Cathedral Rock hike is a must-do, especially at sunset. It's a 1.4-mile roundtrip trail that's a bit tough, with steep parts. Start your hike about 1.5 hours before sunset for the best views.
• For a tougher challenge, try the Soldier Pass/Seven Sacred Pools hike. It's a 4.5-mile roundtrip journey to the beautiful Seven Sacred Pools. Another 0.9-mile hike gets you to the pools.
• The Boynton Canyon Trail is longer but rewarding. It's about 3 miles one way and 7.1 miles total. It takes 4-6 hours to finish, but it's worth it for the diverse landscapes.

Choosing any Sedona hiking trail means you'll see incredible natural beauty. So, put on your hiking boots, bring water and snacks, and get ready to explore Sedona's wonders on foot.

Sedona, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Sedona, Arizona, is famous for its stunning red rock formations. These formations draw visitors from all over the world. The town is full of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. It's a place you must visit.

Devils Bridge

The Devils Bridge hike is a favorite in Sedona. It leads to a natural sandstone arch with amazing views. The hike is about 4 miles roundtrip and is moderate. It's a great challenge for those who love adventure.

Bell Rock and the Courthouse Butte Loop

The Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop is another must-do hike in Sedona. It shows off two famous landmarks. The 3.6-mile loop is easy to moderate and perfect for all skill levels.

Cathedral Rock

The hike to Cathedral Rock is a classic in Sedona. It's about 1 mile long and goes up 600 feet. At the top, you get amazing 360-degree views of one of Sedona's most famous rocks.

Boynton Canyon Trail

The Boynton Canyon Trail is a 6-mile hike through a peaceful canyon. It's a moderate trail that offers a break from the crowds. It's loved by locals and visitors for its beauty.

Soldier Pass Trail

The Soldier Pass Trail is a 4-mile hike that shows off Sedona's diverse landscapes. You'll see red rocks, caves, and natural arches. It's a moderate trail perfect for exploring unique geological features.

Birthing Cave Trail

The Birthing Cave Trail is a short, 1-mile hike to the Birthing Cave. It's an easy trail that gives you a peek into Sedona's history and culture. It's great for those interested in Native American heritage.

Sedona has something for every adventurer, from thrilling hikes to breathtaking views. Dive into the beauty and wonder of this amazing place. Make memories that will last forever.

Cool Off at Swimming Holes

Sedona gets very hot in the summer. That's why its natural swimming holes are a hit for cooling down. Places like Red Rock Crossing and "The Crack" at Wet Beaver Creek let you enjoy the beauty of Sedona while staying cool.

Red Rock Crossing

Red Rock Crossing at Buddha Beach is a stunning spot for swimming. It has clear waters and is surrounded by Cathedral Rock. It's a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sedona.

Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park is one of the top swimming spots in the US. It's very popular in the summer. If you want a quieter place, try the Bootlegger Day Use Area nearby.

Grasshopper Point

Grasshopper Point is just north of Sedona and offers easy access to swimming holes. It costs $12 per car to get in and is open from 8 am to 6 pm in the summer.

Midgely Bridge

The hike to Midgely Bridge is 15-20 minutes down to Oak Creek. It's worth it for the clear pools and beautiful canyon views. You'll need a $5 Red Rock Pass to get there.

"The Crack" at Wet Beaver Creek

"The Crack" at Wet Beaver Creek is for the adventurous. It's a deep swimming hole that you can only get to by hiking 3.5 miles. Once there, you can swim and even jump off cliffs.

Sedona has swimming spots for families and thrill-seekers alike. Its natural swimming holes are perfect for cooling off and enjoying the red rock scenery.

Other Top Attractions

Sedona is famous for its stunning landscapes and outdoor fun. But it also has a lively arts and culture scene. The city is known for its many art galleries. These galleries feature the work of local and regional artists.

Visitors can see everything from traditional Southwestern art to modern abstract pieces. It's a great way to experience different types of art.

Sedona is also a place for those looking for a spiritual retreat. It's full of wellness centers and spas. Here, you can try meditation, yoga, or energy healing.

Wine lovers will enjoy the Sedona wineries on the Verde Valley Wine Trail. This area has beautiful vineyards with tastings and tours. It's a perfect mix of lovely views and great wine.

For those who love adventure, Sedona has jeep tours and hot air balloon rides. These activities let you see the red rocks from above. They're a unique way to see Sedona's beauty.

"Sedona is a truly remarkable destination, offering a captivating blend of natural wonders, artistic expression, and spiritual rejuvenation. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or a transformative getaway, this city in the heart of Arizona has something special to offer."

Where to Stay in Sedona

Sedona, Arizona, is famous for its breathtaking beauty. It's a top spot for those looking to relax. The city has many places to stay, fitting all budgets and tastes. You can find everything from luxury resorts to budget hotels.

Enchantment Resort

The Enchantment Resort is the top choice for a luxurious stay in Sedona. It's a 5-star resort with amazing views of the red rocks. Guests enjoy a top-notch spa, great dining, and lots of activities.

Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock

For a fancy yet affordable stay, try the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. This 4-star resort has a spa, pools, and is close to popular hiking trails like Bell Rock.

The Wilde Resort & Spa

The The Wilde Resort & Spa is a 3-star hotel in a central spot. It's a comfy place for your Sedona trip. Guests can use an outdoor pool, spa, and get to Uptown Sedona's shops and eateries easily.

Mariposa

Don't miss Mariposa, a famous restaurant in Sedona. It's known for tasty Latin food and views of the red rocks. It's a great spot for anyone in the area or just passing by.

Conclusion

Sedona, Arizona, is a top spot for those who love nature and culture. It's known for its stunning views, outdoor fun, and deep cultural roots. This guide shows you the top things to do in Sedona for a trip you'll always remember.

Looking for spiritual peace, outdoor excitement, or just beautiful views? Sedona has it all. It's easy to get to from Flagstaff, Phoenix, and Scottsdale, making it perfect for a day trip or a longer stay. So, start planning your trip to Sedona and see what makes it special.

Sedona offers amazing vortex spots, tough hiking trails, and great places to eat and stay. With this guide, you're set to explore Sedona's best and make memories in a stunning setting. It's a place that will leave you in awe.