Sedona is one of those places that immediately feels different the moment you arrive. The red rock cliffs glow at sunrise and sunset, the air feels a little lighter, and everywhere you look, there’s a mix of outdoor adventure and spiritual energy. When I first visited, I thought it would just be another pretty Arizona town, but Sedona completely surprised me it’s a mix of rugged trails, artistic charm, and healing vibes.
Whether you’re here to hike through red rock canyons, sip wine with a view, or explore the mystical side of Arizona, Sedona is the kind of place that makes you slow down and savor the moment. Here’s my take on the best things to do in Sedona, organized in a way that will help you plan the perfect trip.
Outdoor Adventures
Hike Cathedral Rock at Sunrise
If you only do one hike in Sedona, make it Cathedral Rock at sunrise. The trail isn’t long, but don’t be fooled it’s steep and there are a few spots where you’ll need to scramble up slick rock using your hands. I started just before dawn, and by the time I reached the saddle, the whole valley was glowing in shades of orange and pink. It honestly felt like the rocks themselves were lit from within. You’ll definitely break a sweat, but the view at the top makes you forget about your legs burning.
Wear shoes with good traction and bring water, even if you’re going early. The rock can be slippery, especially on the way down, and you’ll want both hands free to steady yourself.
Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop
Bell Rock is one of those formations you’ll recognize immediately it looks almost like a giant red bell rising out of the desert. The loop around Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte is an easy to moderate trail that gives you constant views of the red rock walls without too much climbing. It’s a nice one if you’re just getting warmed up for your trip or if you’re traveling with kids who can’t handle the steeper climbs. I went in the late afternoon, and the rocks turned this deep golden red that made it feel like the whole landscape was glowing.
Good for: Families, beginners, or anyone who wants a mellow but scenic hike that still delivers the classic Sedona views.
Devil’s Bridge Trail
This is probably the most “Instagram-famous” spot in Sedona and for good reason. Devil’s Bridge is a huge natural sandstone arch, and walking out onto it gives you that mix of excitement and slight fear when you look down. The hike to get there is moderate, with some uphill climbs, and depending on where you start it can be anywhere from 4 to 6 miles round trip. I went early in the morning and still had to wait in line for a photo, but honestly the whole experience was worth it. Standing on that bridge feels like being on top of the world.
Start as early as possible, both to beat the crowds and the desert heat. Parking fills up quickly.
Jeep Tours Through the Red Rocks
If hiking isn’t your thing or if you just want to see more of Sedona’s backcountry book a jeep tour. I went with the classic Pink Jeep Tours, and it was honestly one of the highlights of my trip. The drivers take you bouncing up steep trails and rocky hillsides you’d never dare drive yourself, and along the way they point out different rock formations, share stories about Sedona’s history, and sprinkle in some geology. It’s equal parts thrilling and informative, and you get to sit back and enjoy the views without worrying about the trail.
Good to know: It can get really bumpy, so hold on tight (and maybe skip it if you get motion sick easily).
Scenic Drive: Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179)
If you don’t have much time in Sedona, this drive alone will give you a taste of what makes the area so special. Highway 179, also called the Red Rock Scenic Byway, is only about 7.5 miles long, but every curve reveals another postcard view. You’ll see Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and even glimpses of Cathedral Rock. I pulled over at almost every viewpoint, and it turned what could’ve been a 20-minute drive into a relaxed couple of hours.
Try to time it for golden hour late afternoon or sunset when the light makes the rocks look like they’re on fire.
Spiritual & Wellness Experiences
Visit the Famous Vortex Sites
Even if you don’t totally buy into the idea of “energy vortexes,” visiting Sedona’s four main vortex spots Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon is still an experience you’ll remember. These areas are said to radiate energy that helps with healing, meditation, and reflection. I’m not usually someone who talks about energy fields, but I’ll admit, sitting quietly at Cathedral Rock did feel different like the whole place was humming in a low, calming way. Some people come here specifically to meditate, while others just take in the view, and honestly either way it’s worth the stop.
Airport Mesa is especially nice at sunset, but it’s crowded. If you want something quieter, try Boynton Canyon.
Yoga and Spa Retreats
Sedona has built a whole reputation around wellness, and it’s easy to see why. There are yoga classes held outdoors with red rock backdrops, spa treatments that use local desert ingredients, and retreats that combine everything from meditation to sound baths. After a couple of long hikes, I booked a massage at a local spa, and it felt like the perfect reset. If you’re traveling with friends, a half-day at one of Sedona’s spa resorts can be a fun way to balance out all the adventure.
Good to know: Many resorts (like L’Auberge de Sedona or Enchantment Resort) offer spa packages, but you can also find smaller local studios if you’re on a budget.
Crystal Shops and Healing Centers
Walk through Uptown Sedona and you’ll see shops filled with crystals, incense, and spiritual books. Whether you’re into that kind of thing or just curious, it’s a part of Sedona’s culture. I popped into a couple of crystal shops, and even though I wasn’t looking for anything in particular, the vibe was calming. Some shops also offer aura photography, reiki sessions, or tarot readings. It might not be for everyone, but even browsing is an experience that adds to Sedona’s unique character.
Don’t feel pressured to buy most shop owners are more than happy to explain what things mean, even if you’re just window-shopping.
Arts & Culture
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
If Sedona had a heart for art lovers, it would be Tlaquepaque. This Spanish-style village looks like something out of old Mexico with its cobblestone walkways, vine-covered walls, and little courtyards shaded by sycamore trees. I wandered in thinking it would be a quick stop, but ended up spending half the day browsing galleries and quirky boutiques. You’ll find everything from fine art and handmade jewelry to pottery and textiles. Even if you’re not much of a shopper, it’s worth a stroll the whole place feels like an open-air museum.
Come in the late afternoon when the light makes the courtyards glow, and maybe stick around for dinner at one of the restaurants here.
Sedona Arts Center
The Sedona Arts Center is smaller and less touristy than Tlaquepaque, but it’s one of those places that gives you a real sense of the local creative scene. The gallery features rotating exhibits with works from regional artists, including photography, painting, and sculpture. I liked it because it felt more personal many of the artists are around to talk about their work, and there are even workshops if you’re in town for a few days and want to try something hands-on.
Sedona Film Festival
If your trip happens to line up in late February or early March, the Sedona International Film Festival is a big deal here. Independent films from all over the world are shown at different venues across town, and the atmosphere is really lively. It’s not just for hardcore film buffs either I went to a couple of screenings and ended up chatting with locals and visitors who were just curious. It’s a fun way to experience Sedona beyond the hiking trails and vortexes.
Public Art & Local Galleries
Even outside of the main cultural centers, Sedona has art everywhere murals, sculptures tucked into plazas, and small galleries along Highway 89A. I stumbled across a little studio that specialized in desert landscapes done in watercolor, and it felt like a hidden discovery. If you love collecting art from your travels, Sedona is one of those places where you’ll find pieces that actually feel tied to the landscape.
Food & Drink
Arizona Wineries and Tasting Rooms
Sedona might not be the first place you think of for wine, but the Verde Valley wine region just outside town is becoming a big deal. I spent an afternoon at Page Springs Cellars, sipping wine on a patio that overlooks Oak Creek, and it felt more like a little piece of Napa dropped in the desert. Alcantara Vineyards is another good one if you want the full vineyard experience with wide open views. If you don’t feel like driving out of town, a lot of local restaurants and bars in Sedona pour Arizona wines, so you can taste without leaving the city.
Zee Tip: If you’re planning to visit a few vineyards, check if a local tour or shuttle is running it’s a safer and more relaxed way to do a tasting crawl.
Creekside Dining at Oak Creek
One of the highlights of eating in Sedona is finding a spot along Oak Creek. There’s something about having a meal outdoors with the sound of running water below and those red rock views all around. I had brunch at a place near the creek, and it turned into one of those slow, easy mornings that felt like the perfect reset after hiking. Many of the creekside spots are casual, so you don’t need to dress up just come hungry and ready to linger a while.
Local Favorites in Uptown Sedona
Uptown is where you’ll find the most variety everything from Southwest-style fine dining to casual cafes serving good coffee and breakfast burritos. I stopped by Sedona Beer Co. one evening, and it was a great place to wind down with a craft beer and chat with locals. If you’re more into sweets, check out one of the fudge shops or ice cream parlors tucked into Uptown. It’s touristy, sure, but sometimes that’s exactly the vibe you want after a long day outdoors.
Day Trips & Nearby Adventures
Explore Jerome: Arizona’s Famous Ghost Town
Jerome is one of those towns that doesn’t feel real until you’re standing in it. Perched on the side of Cleopatra Hill, about 45 minutes from Sedona, it used to be a booming mining town. Then it was almost abandoned, and now it’s come back to life as a mix of art studios, wine tasting rooms, and slightly eerie historic buildings. Walking around, you’ll see leaning brick walls, old mining equipment, and narrow streets with incredible views of the Verde Valley below. I wandered into a couple of local art shops and then grabbed a glass of wine at a tasting room, which felt like the perfect way to take in the town’s quirky vibe.
If you’re into ghost stories, Jerome is known as one of the most haunted towns in the U.S., and there are night tours that lean into that side of its history.
Montezuma Castle National Monument
On the drive between Sedona and Phoenix, you’ll pass Montezuma Castle, and it’s absolutely worth a stop. These cliff dwellings were built by the Sinagua people more than 700 years ago, and they’re remarkably well-preserved. The structures are set high into the limestone cliffs, and seeing how entire communities once lived there is fascinating. The walk from the visitor center is short and easy, so it’s a quick but meaningful stop, especially if you want to balance Sedona’s natural beauty with a bit of history and culture.
Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
If you’re heading north toward Flagstaff, the Oak Creek Canyon drive along Highway 89A is one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Arizona. The canyon walls rise steeply on either side, and the road winds alongside Oak Creek with plenty of pullouts where you can stop for photos. In the fall, the canyon is especially magical, with golden aspens and maples lighting up the whole route. I pulled over at Slide Rock State Park for a short walk, and it ended up being one of the best detours of my trip.
Good to know: The road is narrow and winding, so give yourself extra time. You’ll want to stop more than once, trust me.
Where to Stay in Sedona
Sedona has a little bit of everything when it comes to places to stay luxury resorts tucked into red rock canyons, boutique hotels with pools and patios, and budget-friendly motels that still give you easy access to the trails.
- Luxury: Enchantment Resort is the one everyone talks about, and honestly, it lives up to the hype. The resort is surrounded by Boynton Canyon, and waking up with those cliffs outside your window feels unreal. If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy trip (honeymoon, anniversary, or just a treat-yourself moment), this is the spot.
- Midrange: Amara Resort & Spa sits closer to town, which makes it easy to walk to shops and restaurants. It has a pool that looks out toward the red rocks, plus spa services if you want a little relaxation after hiking.
- Budget: Along Highway 89A, you’ll find plenty of motels and smaller inns. They might not be fancy, but they’re comfortable, clean, and way more affordable if you’d rather spend your money on tours, food, or an extra night in town. Airbnb also has some cozy cabins and casitas that make you feel a bit more local.
Book early if you’re traveling in spring or fall. Those seasons are peak times in Sedona, and the best spots fill up months in advance.
Practical Tips for Visiting Sedona
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the sweet spots cooler temps, clear skies, and perfect hiking weather. Summer can get really hot, while winter is quieter and cheaper but chilly at night.
- How Many Days You Need: I think 3 days is perfect. That gives you time for a couple of hikes, a jeep tour, some art browsing, and maybe a side trip to Jerome or Oak Creek Canyon. If you love hiking, you could easily stretch it to 4–5 days.
- Getting Around: You’ll definitely want a car. Sedona’s attractions are spread out, and while there’s some shuttle service to the most popular trailheads, it’s not convenient for a full trip.
- Parking: Many trailheads require a Red Rock Pass, which you can grab at kiosks, visitor centers, or even gas stations. Don’t skip it they do check.
- Crowds: Sedona is no longer a secret. Trails like Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock get crowded. Go early in the morning, especially if you want photos without lines of people.
Conclusion
Sedona is one of those places that sneaks up on you. I expected red rocks and some good hiking, but what I found was so much more a mix of adventure, creativity, and moments that felt almost spiritual. One day I was climbing Cathedral Rock at sunrise, the next I was sipping Arizona wine by the creek, and then later browsing paintings at Tlaquepaque. It’s a destination that lets you chase adrenaline, slow down, or tap into a side of yourself you didn’t even know needed attention.
For me, Sedona wasn’t just another stop in Arizona, it was a place that left me wanting to come back. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or planning a longer stay, Sedona has a way of leaving its mark. And honestly, once you’ve watched the sun set behind those red cliffs, you’ll understand why people keep returning.