Welcome to Sedona, where Mother Nature decided to show off with towering red rocks that look like they were painted by the gods themselves! If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Sedona, you’ve hit the jackpot. This mystical Arizona town isn’t just Instagram-worthy (though your followers will definitely thank you) – it’s a playground for adventure seekers, spiritual souls, and anyone who appreciates jaw-dropping scenery. From hiking trails that’ll make your heart race to art galleries that’ll feed your soul, we’ve rounded up 21 incredible experiences that’ll make your Sedona trip absolutely unforgettable. Trust us, by the end of this guide, you’ll be planning your next visit before you’ve even left!
1. Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock stands as Sedona’s most iconic red rock formation, beckoning hikers and photographers with its towering spires that seem to pierce the desert sky. This geological masterpiece offers one of the most rewarding short hikes in Arizona, combining stunning vistas with a moderate challenge that’ll get your heart pumping.
The Cathedral Rock Trail is a relatively short but steep scramble that takes you up the famous red sandstone formation. Don’t let the 1.2-mile round trip fool you – this hike involves some serious rock climbing that requires both hands and feet. Once you reach the saddle between the twin spires, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Sedona’s red rock country that are absolutely Instagram-worthy.
- Duration: 1-2 hours round trip
- Best for: Intermediate hikers, photographers, adventure seekers (not recommended for young children)
- Cost: Red Rock Pass required ($5 daily or $15 weekly)
- Location: Back O Beyond Road, Sedona, AZ
- Pro tip: Start early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures – summer midday heat can be brutal!
Cathedral Rock isn’t just a hike; it’s a spiritual journey that perfectly captures why Sedona is considered one of the world’s energy vortex sites.
2. Devil’s Bridge Trail
Devil’s Bridge Trail offers one of Sedona’s most Instagram-worthy moments – a natural sandstone arch that’ll make your friends back home seriously jealous of your hiking game. This 1.8-mile moderate trek rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of red rock formations and the Verde Valley that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The trail itself is well-maintained and features a steady uphill climb through desert landscape dotted with juniper and oak trees. Once you reach the famous arch, you can carefully walk across the 45-foot natural bridge for that perfect photo op, though those afraid of heights might prefer to admire it from solid ground.
- Duration: 2-3 hours round trip
- Best for: Hikers of all levels, photographers, and adventure seekers
- Cost: Free (parking may require Red Rock Pass – $5 day pass)
- Location: Dry Creek Road, Sedona
- Pro tip: Start early (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and harsh midday sun, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking shoes
Devil’s Bridge Trail perfectly combines Sedona’s natural beauty with a manageable adventure that’ll leave you with killer photos and stories worth telling.
3. Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a striking architectural marvel built directly into Sedona’s famous red rock formations, offering visitors a unique blend of spirituality and breathtaking scenery that makes it one of the most photographed spots in Arizona.
This modernist chapel, completed in 1956, appears to grow from the sandstone cliffs themselves, creating an almost mystical experience as you approach. The interior features a simple yet powerful design with a massive cross window that frames the stunning red rock landscape beyond. Whether you’re religious or not, the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views make this a must-visit destination.
Practical information for your visit:
- Duration: 30-45 minutes (allow extra time for photos!)
- Perfect for: Couples, families, photographers, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility
- Cost: Free admission
- Location: 780 Chapel Road, Sedona, AZ
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour (late afternoon) for the most spectacular lighting, but arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking
The Chapel of the Holy Cross proves that some of the most profound experiences come from the perfect marriage of human creativity and nature’s raw beauty.
4. Bell Rock: Sedona’s Most Iconic Red Rock Formation
Bell Rock is arguably Sedona’s most recognizable landmark and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking breathtaking views and spiritual energy in Arizona’s red rock country. This bell-shaped sandstone formation rises dramatically from the desert floor, offering both easy access for casual visitors and challenging climbs for adventure seekers.
The rock formation is famous for its supposed vortex energy, attracting spiritual seekers from around the world, while photographers flock here for sunrise and sunset shots that paint the red rocks in golden hues. You can walk around the base on well-maintained trails or scramble up the slickrock faces for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Essential visitor information:
- Time needed: 1-3 hours depending on how far you climb
- Perfect for: All skill levels, families with older kids, photographers, and spiritual seekers
- Cost: Free (Red Rock Pass required for parking: $5/day or $15/week)
- Location: Highway 179, just south of the Village of Oak Creek
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday sun; bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes
Bell Rock delivers that quintessential Sedona experience where natural beauty meets mystical energy, making it an unforgettable stop that perfectly captures the magic of Arizona’s red rock wilderness.
5. Oak Creek Canyon: Nature’s Masterpiece Drive
Oak Creek Canyon offers one of America’s most breathtaking scenic drives, making it an absolute must-see when visiting Sedona. This stunning 30-mile route from Flagstaff to Sedona winds through towering red rock formations, lush forests, and crystal-clear creek waters that’ll have you pulling over every five minutes for photos.
The canyon’s dramatic elevation changes create a unique ecosystem where desert meets forest, offering incredible hiking trails, swimming holes, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The drive itself is an adventure, with hairpin turns revealing jaw-dropping vistas at every bend.
- Duration: 2-4 hours for the drive plus stops
- Perfect for: Families, photographers, nature lovers, and road trip enthusiasts
- Cost: Free (parking fees may apply at some trailheads)
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds; bring a camera and water for hiking
Oak Creek Canyon proves that sometimes the journey really is more spectacular than the destination—though in this case, both are pretty incredible.
6. Slide Rock State Park: Nature’s Water Slide Adventure
Slide Rock State Park is Arizona’s natural water park where Mother Nature installed the world’s most thrilling (and free!) water slide carved right into the red sandstone. This unique geological wonder in Oak Creek Canyon transforms swimming into an unforgettable adventure as you glide down smooth rock chutes into refreshing pools below.
Beyond the famous natural slides, the park offers excellent hiking trails, picnic areas, and a working 43-acre apple orchard that dates back to the early 1900s. The crystal-clear Oak Creek provides relief from Arizona’s heat, while the dramatic red rock canyon walls create a stunning backdrop for your aquatic escapades.
- Visit duration: 3-4 hours
- Perfect for: Families with kids, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting to cool off
- Admission: $20 per vehicle
- Location: 6871 N Highway 89A, Sedona
- Pro tip: Arrive early (before 10 AM) to secure parking and avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Bring water shoes for better grip on slippery rocks!
It’s not every day you get to experience a water slide that took millions of years to perfect – Slide Rock delivers thrills that no man-made attraction can match.
7. West Fork Oak Creek Trailhead
The West Fork Oak Creek Trail is hands down one of Sedona’s most enchanting hikes, where you’ll literally walk through a creek while towering red canyon walls rise 1,000 feet above you. This isn’t your typical dusty desert trail – you’ll be splashing through crystal-clear water and hopping across rocks like a kid in a natural playground.
The trail follows Oak Creek through a narrow slot canyon, creating a cool, shaded oasis that’s perfect for escaping Arizona’s blazing sun. You’ll cross the creek multiple times (pack water shoes!), and the reflections of red rocks in the flowing water make for absolutely stunning photos. The fall colors here are legendary, transforming the canyon into a golden wonderland.
- Time needed: 2-4 hours for the full 6.4-mile round trip
- Perfect for: Families with older kids, photographers, and anyone seeking a refreshing adventure
- Cost: $5 Red Rock Pass required for parking
- Location: 10 miles north of Sedona on Highway 89A
- Pro tip: Visit in early morning or late fall for fewer crowds and the best lighting
This trail proves that sometimes the best adventures require getting your feet a little wet – and your soul completely refreshed.
8. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Step into Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village and you’ll feel like you’ve been magically transported to a charming Mexican pueblo – minus the need for a passport or questionable water! This enchanting outdoor mall has been Sedona’s cultural heart since the 1970s, offering visitors a delightful blend of world-class art galleries, unique boutiques, and exceptional dining wrapped in stunning Spanish colonial architecture.
Wander through cobblestone pathways lined with over 50 galleries and shops showcasing everything from Native American jewelry to contemporary sculptures. The village’s courtyards and fountains create perfect photo ops, while restaurants like El Rincon Restaurante Mexicano serve up authentic flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance.
- Time needed: 2-4 hours depending on your shopping stamina
- Perfect for: Art lovers, couples, families with older kids, and anyone who enjoys retail therapy
- Cost: Free to browse (but your wallet might have other plans)
- Location: 336 State Route 179, Sedona
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for a more peaceful experience and better parking
Tlaquepaque proves that shopping can be an art form itself – it’s where culture, creativity, and credit cards come together in perfect harmony.
9. Broken Arrow Trail: Sedona’s Rocky Adventure Playground
Broken Arrow Trail is one of Sedona’s most thrilling off-road hiking experiences, offering a perfect blend of rugged terrain and breathtaking red rock views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous. This moderately challenging trail leads you through stunning sandstone formations and delivers you to scenic viewpoints where you’ll likely bump into cheerful jeep tour groups who’ve taken the easier (but pricier) route to the top.
The trail winds through classic Sedona landscape, featuring dramatic rock formations, desert vegetation, and those iconic red cliffs that make Arizona famous. You’ll navigate some rocky scrambles and sandy washes, but nothing too technical for most hikers with decent fitness levels.
- Duration: 2-3 hours round trip
- Perfect for: Adventure-seeking couples, families with older kids (10+), and hiking enthusiasts
- Cost: Free (just parking fees at trailhead)
- Location: Broken Arrow Trailhead, Sedona, AZ
- Pro tip: Start early morning to beat the heat and crowds, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking shoes
Whether you hike it or jeep it, Broken Arrow Trail delivers that quintessential Sedona magic that turns ordinary travelers into desert devotees.
10. Airport Mesa: Sedona’s Spectacular Sunset Viewing Deck
Airport Mesa stands as Sedona’s premier sunset viewing platform, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that will make your Instagram followers weep with envy. Perched high above the red rock landscape, this easily accessible mesa transforms into a magical theater every evening as the sun paints the famous red rocks in brilliant hues of orange, pink, and gold.
The short, well-maintained trail to the top takes just 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for sunset chasers who prefer their adventure with a side of convenience. Along the way, you’ll encounter one of Sedona’s renowned vortex sites, where some visitors claim to feel spiritual energy (or maybe it’s just the thin air from the elevation!).
- Best time to visit: 1-2 hours, arriving 45 minutes before sunset
- Perfect for: Couples, families with older kids, photography enthusiasts
- Cost: Free (just parking fees may apply)
- Location: Airport Road, Sedona, AZ
- Pro tip: Bring a flashlight for the descent and arrive early to snag the best viewing spots
Airport Mesa proves that sometimes the best things in life are free – you just have to climb a little hill to get them.
11. Find Inner Peace at Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park offers a serene escape from Sedona’s bustling tourist scene, making it the perfect spot for spiritual seekers and anyone craving a moment of zen among the red rocks. This beautiful Buddhist sanctuary features a stunning white stupa surrounded by peaceful gardens, prayer flags fluttering in the desert breeze, and panoramic views that’ll have you reaching for your camera and your inner tranquility simultaneously.
The park invites visitors to walk the meditation path, spin prayer wheels, and simply sit in contemplation while soaking up Sedona’s legendary energy. Whether you’re Buddhist, spiritual-curious, or just need a break from the crowds, this hidden gem delivers profound peace without the usual tourist chaos.
- Visit duration: 30-60 minutes
- Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, spiritual seekers, and families with older children
- Cost: Free (donations welcomed)
- Location: 2650 Pueblo Drive, Sedona
- Pro tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for magical lighting and fewer visitors
This sacred space proves that sometimes the most meaningful travel experiences cost nothing but offer everything your soul needs.
12. Boynton Canyon Trail
Boynton Canyon Trail is Sedona’s perfect blend of natural beauty and ancient history, offering hikers a stunning three-mile journey into a magnificent box canyon dotted with fascinating Sinaguan Indian ruins. This moderately challenging trail rewards adventurers with towering red rock walls, diverse desert flora, and glimpses into centuries-old Native American heritage.
The trail winds through breathtaking scenery where you’ll discover well-preserved archaeological sites tucked among the canyon walls. Early morning hikers are often treated to magical lighting that sets the red rocks ablaze, while the cooler temperatures make for comfortable exploration.
- Duration: 2-3 hours round trip
- Perfect for: Couples, history buffs, and moderate hikers
- Cost: $5 Red Rock Pass required for parking
- Location: Boynton Canyon Road, west of uptown Sedona
- Pro tip: Start early (7-8 AM) to beat crowds and heat, bring plenty of water and sturdy hiking boots
With its perfect combination of natural wonder and cultural significance, Boynton Canyon Trail delivers an unforgettable Sedona experience that connects you to both the land’s stunning beauty and its rich indigenous past.
13. Red Rock State Park: Nature’s Stunning Classroom
Red Rock State Park is Sedona’s premier 286-acre nature preserve where dramatic red rock formations meet pristine wilderness, making it the perfect spot for those seeking both beauty and tranquility away from the crowds. Unlike the bustling tourist hotspots, this environmental education center offers a more intimate encounter with Sedona’s legendary landscape through well-maintained trails that wind through manzanita and juniper forests to the lush banks of Oak Creek.
The park’s network of easy-to-moderate trails provides stunning photo opportunities at every turn, while the visitor center offers fascinating insights into the area’s ecology and geology. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting javelinas, coyotes, and over 135 bird species that call this preserve home.
- Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours for a leisurely exploration
- Perfect for: Families with kids, nature photographers, and couples seeking a romantic stroll
- Entry fee: $7 per vehicle (as of 2024)
- Location: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures, plus parking is easier to find
Red Rock State Park proves that sometimes the most magical experiences happen when you slow down and let nature be your guide.
14. Palatki Ruins: Ancient Cliff Dwellings
Palatki Ruins offers one of Sedona’s most fascinating glimpses into ancient Native American history, where 700-year-old cliff dwellings and vibrant rock art tell stories of the Sinagua people who once called these red rock alcoves home.
This archaeological treasure features remarkably preserved stone structures built directly into the cliff face, along with extensive petroglyphs and pictographs that showcase ancient artistic traditions. The self-guided trail leads you through two main sites – the cliff dwellings and the rock art panels – each offering unique insights into prehistoric life in the high desert.
What makes Palatki special is its intimate scale and excellent preservation. Unlike crowded tourist sites, you’ll often have these ancient ruins mostly to yourself, creating an almost mystical connection with the past.
- Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
- Perfect For: History buffs, families with older kids, photographers, and anyone fascinated by ancient cultures
- Cost: Free (Forest Service day pass required)
- Location: Forest Road 525, about 12 miles northwest of Sedona
- Pro Tip: Visit early morning for the best lighting on rock art and cooler temperatures – plus you might spot wildlife!
Palatki proves that sometimes the most profound travel experiences come not from grand spectacles, but from quiet moments standing where ancient people once lived, loved, and created art that still speaks to us today.
15. Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook
Perched dramatically at the entrance to Sedona Airport, the Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook serves up some of the most jaw-dropping 360-degree views in all of Arizona – and the best part? You don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy them!
This elevated vantage point treats visitors to sweeping panoramas of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte. The overlook features paved walkways and viewing platforms that make it accessible for everyone, plus it’s one of the few spots where you can catch both spectacular sunrises and sunsets painting the rocks in brilliant oranges and reds.
- Visit duration: 30-60 minutes
- Perfect for: Families, couples, photographers, and first-time visitors
- Cost: Free parking and access
- Location: Sedona Airport Road, just follow the signs
- Pro tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the ultimate light show, but expect crowds – early morning visits offer equally stunning views with fewer people
Whether you’re kicking off your Sedona adventure or looking for that perfect Instagram shot, this overlook delivers million-dollar views without spending a dime.
16. Fay Canyon Trail: A Hidden Gem for Rock Scrambling Adventures
Fay Canyon Trail offers one of Sedona’s most rewarding moderate hikes, combining stunning red rock scenery with an exciting scrambling challenge that’ll get your heart pumping without requiring mountaineering skills.
This 2.4-mile out-and-back trail winds through a picturesque canyon before culminating in a thrilling rock scramble that rewards adventurous hikers with spectacular views and a genuine sense of accomplishment. The trail starts easy enough for most fitness levels, but the final climb adds just the right amount of excitement to separate this hike from your typical tourist walk.
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Best for: Active families with older kids (8+), couples seeking adventure, and hiking enthusiasts
- Cost: Free (Red Rock Pass required for parking – $5/day)
- Location: Fay Canyon Trailhead, Boynton Pass Road
- Pro tip: Start early morning to avoid crowds and heat; bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the scramble
It’s the perfect blend of accessible hiking and genuine adventure that makes you feel like you’ve truly earned those Instagram-worthy views.
17. Main Street: Sedona’s Wild West Shopping Paradise
Main Street is Sedona’s charming gateway to the Old West, where modern mysticism meets cowboy culture in the most delightfully quirky way possible. This bustling thoroughfare serves up everything from Native American art galleries and crystal shops run by friendly mystics to authentic Western wear stores and restaurants serving up hearty Southwestern fare.
Stroll along the wooden sidewalks and you’ll discover local artisans showcasing stunning red rock-inspired paintings, jewelry boutiques filled with turquoise treasures, and yes – plenty of opportunities for tarot card readings if you’re feeling adventurous. The street comes alive with street performers and the occasional cowboy on horseback, making it feel like a movie set come to life.
- Time needed: 2-3 hours for leisurely browsing
- Perfect for: Families, couples, and anyone who enjoys shopping with character
- Cost: Free to walk around; budget $20-100+ for souvenirs and dining
- Pro tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos
Main Street perfectly captures Sedona’s unique blend of spiritual energy and Wild West charm – making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to take home a piece of this magical desert town.
18. Soldier Pass Trail: A Photographer’s Paradise
Soldier Pass Trail is the Instagram darling of Sedona’s hiking scene, offering spectacular red rock formations and iconic photo opportunities that’ll make your friends back home seriously jealous. This moderate 4.2-mile round-trip hike leads you through some of Sedona’s most stunning geological wonders, including the famous Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole and the towering Soldier Pass Arches.
The trail rewards hikers with dramatic vistas of Capitol Butte and Coffeepot Rock, while the Devil’s Kitchen provides a fascinating glimpse into Sedona’s geological history. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient Native American ruins and petroglyphs that add cultural depth to your adventure.
- Duration: 2-3 hours for the full trail
- Perfect for: Intermediate hikers, photographers, and geology enthusiasts
- Cost: Free (Red Rock Pass required for parking: $5/day or $15/week)
- Location: Soldier Pass Road, Sedona, AZ
- Pro tip: Start early morning for cooler temperatures and golden hour lighting – the crowds arrive by 9 AM!
With its perfect blend of accessible adventure and jaw-dropping scenery, Soldier Pass Trail delivers the quintessential Sedona experience that’ll have you planning your return visit before you’ve even finished the hike.
19. Snoopy Rock: Sedona’s Most Beloved Cartoon Character in Stone
Snoopy Rock is one of Sedona’s most charming and instantly recognizable rock formations, perfectly resembling the beloved beagle lying on his doghouse from the Peanuts comic strip. This whimsical natural sculpture offers visitors a delightful blend of geological wonder and nostalgic fun that’s impossible to resist.
Located along the scenic drive through Sedona, this iconic formation provides excellent photo opportunities and serves as a perfect introduction to the area’s famous red rock landscape. The resemblance to Snoopy is so striking that even skeptics find themselves grinning and reaching for their cameras. It’s easily visible from multiple viewpoints, making it accessible for visitors of all mobility levels.
- Visit Duration: 15-30 minutes for photos and viewing
- Perfect For: Families with children, couples, photography enthusiasts, and Peanuts fans
- Cost: Free to view from public areas
- Location: Visible from various points along Highway 179, best viewed near Uptown Sedona
- Pro Tip: Visit during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most spectacular lighting and fewer crowds
Snoopy Rock proves that sometimes the best attractions are the ones that make you smile before you even get out of your car.
20. Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art
Step into Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art, where Sedona’s artistic soul comes alive through an impressive collection of contemporary paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous. This isn’t your typical stuffy gallery – it’s a vibrant showcase where local and international artists display their most captivating pieces, with Sandra Brestel’s petroglyph-inspired panels stealing the show with their bold, eye-catching designs that seem to capture the very essence of Sedona’s mystical energy.
The gallery’s carefully curated collection ranges from abstract expressionism to realistic landscapes, ensuring there’s something to spark every artistic taste. You’ll find yourself wandering through thoughtfully arranged displays that highlight the red rock country’s influence on contemporary art.
- Time needed: 45-60 minutes for a leisurely browse
- Perfect for: Art enthusiasts, couples seeking culture, and anyone wanting to escape the desert heat
- Cost: Free admission (though your wallet might not survive the tempting gift shop)
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more intimate experience with the art
Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who appreciates beautiful things, this gallery offers a refreshing cultural pause in your Sedona adventure.
21. Oak Creek Vista Overlook: Where Views Meet Native Treasures
Oak Creek Vista Overlook is your gateway to Sedona’s stunning red rock panorama, plus a chance to snag authentic Native American treasures without the tourist trap prices. This scenic pullout delivers Instagram-worthy views of the famous red rocks while offering a unique shopping experience that beats crowded gift shops hands down.
The overlook provides sweeping vistas of Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona’s iconic formations, making it perfect for sunset photography. What sets this spot apart is the collection of Native American vendors selling handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and artwork directly from local artisans. You’ll find genuine turquoise pieces, dream catchers, and traditional crafts at fair prices.
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes for viewing and browsing
- Perfect for: Families, couples, photography enthusiasts, and souvenir hunters
- Cost: Free parking and viewing; crafts range from $10-200+
- Location: Highway 89A, about 12 miles north of Sedona
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour (1 hour before sunset) for magical lighting, and bring cash for the best vendor deals
It’s the rare spot where breathtaking natural beauty meets authentic cultural shopping – making your Sedona memories both scenic and meaningful.
There you have it – 21 amazing things to do in Sedona that prove this red rock wonderland is so much more than just a pretty face. Whether you’re scaling Cathedral Rock at sunrise, browsing local art at Tlaquepaque, or simply soaking in the desert vibes at Oak Creek, Sedona has a way of surprising even the most seasoned travelers. The best part? This list barely scratches the surface of what this magical place has to offer. So pack your hiking boots, charge your camera, and get ready for an adventure that’ll leave you planning your return trip before you’ve even checked out of your hotel. Sedona isn’t just a destination – it’s a feeling you’ll want to experience again and again!