Top 10 Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona

top things to do in sedona arizona
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Introduction to Sedona

Known for its stunning red rock formations that create magnificent landscape views, scenic hiking trails, spectacular sunsets, flourishing art community, bustling food scene, and a spiritual culture conducive to healing, meditation, and self-exploration, Sedona, AZ, offers a plethora of adventures to visitors from all over the world.

There’s so much to explore and experience in this mesmerizing city, whether you’re visiting to connect with nature, appreciate local art, have a taste of its culinary offerings, or go on a spiritual journey.

This article lists the top 10 things to do in Sedona, Arizona, to help you plan your upcoming travel. Let’s dive in!

a woman standing on a cliff things to do in sedona arizona
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1. Explore Sedona’s Famous Red Rocks

One of the best things to do in Sedona is go on a trip to the Red Rock State Park, a 286-acre nature preserve that boasts great views of the city’s famous rock formations.

Red Rock State Park offers a 5-mile trail network comprised of interconnecting looped trails. The Eagle’s Nest Loop leads to the highest point in the park with an elevation gain of about 300 feet.

cathedral rock before sunset things to do in sedona arizona
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2. Visit Cathedral Rock

Sedona has four vortexes – Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, Boynton Canyon, and Cathedral Rock. These vortexes are believed to emit energy that fosters healing, meditation, and self-exploration.

The 1.2-mile out-and-back trail to Cathedral Rock is said to be one of the most difficult and strenuous Sedona hiking trails, but also a very rewarding one. Once you get to the top, the views are spectacular. It’s a great spot to take photos of the surrounding red rocks.

a pink jeep driving down a dirt road things to do in sedona arizona
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3. Take a Jeep Tour

The Sedona Pink Jeep Tours is a popular activity among tourists, offering an array of off-roading adventures that vary by theme and activity level.

The Ancient Ruin tour includes a hike to the Honanki Heritage Site, a 700-year-old Native American cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people. During the tour, you’ll view over 1,500 pictographs and petroglyphs while your local guide shares the myths and legends surrounding them.

The Broken Arrow tour is Sedona’s most exclusive and thrilling off-road adventure, which is offered exclusively by Pink Jeep Tours. In this tour, you’ll climb over the iconic red rocks and enjoy stunning 360-degree views of Southwest wilderness.

And there’s the Diamondback Gulch tour, an exhilarating outback journey into high desert terrain and steep grand arroyos. This tour offers a glimpse into Arizona’s ranching past, expansive views of Red Rock country, and a thrilling descent into Diamondback Gulch.

a silhouette of a person sitting on a cliff during sunset things to do in sedona arizona
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4. Relax at the Sedona Vortexes

As mentioned previously, Sedona has four vortexes – Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon. These vortexes are thought to be swirling centers of energy that are conducive to healing, meditation, and self-exploration.

Beyond their metaphysical properties, the mere natural beauty of these vortexes guarantees to leave you feeling better than when you arrived – lighter and more energized.

a starry night behind a landscape mountain things to do in sedona arizona
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5. Stargazing in Sedona

Designated as the world’s eighth International Dark Sky Community by the International Dark-Sky Association, Sedona boasts star-studded skies cascading over the red rock formations.

The Baldwin Trailhead in the Village of Oak Creek offers an unparalleled stargazing experience with the best view of the stars above the monolith of Cathedral Rock.

The Thunder Mountain Trailhead is a great spot to admire a breathtaking sunset, followed by a magical night sky illuminated with some of the world’s most brilliant stars and constellations. Even the Milky Way looks much more beautiful with its luminous hue.

If you are staying close to Uptown Sedona, you can marvel at the starlit sky at Brins Mesa Trailhead. Despite its proximity to Uptown, Brins Mesa is far enough from the city lights to offer a great view of the night sky.

a couple sitting on camping chairs watching the sunset on a cliff things to do in sedona arizona
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6. Discover Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon is one of the most beautiful and scenic stretches of Arizona, with a crystal-clear creek lined with smooth river rocks, blackberry bushes, and lush, green, oak trees with leaves that transform into vibrant yellow, orange, and red leaves in the fall.

The incredible scenery makes Oak Creek Canyon an ideal spot for camping in Sedona. Aside from designated camping sites along the water, there are cozy cabins and vacation homes in the area as well.

the chapel of the holy cross lit up at night things to do in sedona arizona
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7. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross, designed by sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a student of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is an architectural masterpiece. The structure can be seen protruding from the red cliffs and overlooking the Verde Valley, the stained-glass windows held together by a giant cross.

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8. Enjoy Sedona’s Art Scene

Sedona is a haven for art collectors, with over 80 galleries featuring an incredible mix of work from world-renowned artist communities and those who are just beginning to make their mark.

These galleries showcase art in every medium, including fine art paintings, thought-provoking abstracts, whimsical kinetic sculptures, Native American kachinas and weavings, large format photography, stained glass, ceramics, and woodcarvings.

a stone building with the mountains in the background things to do in sedona arizona
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9. Sample Local Cuisine

Sedona is also well-known for its cuisine and world-class restaurants. Many restaurants boast unique signature dishes you can’t find anywhere else.

Some of the must-try restaurants in Sedona include Hideaway House, a beloved local eatery overlooking the Red Rocks serving Italian food; El Rincon Restaurante Mexicano, whose unique menu features “Arizona-style Mexican cuisine;” and Red Rock Café, a popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its Arizona-style breakfast.

And, of course, a culinary adventure won’t be complete without experiencing Sedona wine tours. Explore the region’s wonderful vineyards and sample their best wines while taking in all the beautiful surroundings.

a thank you for shopping sign things to do in sedona arizona
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10. Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

The Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is an outdoor shopping center designed in the style of a traditional Mexican village.

Built on what was once a sycamore grove, special care was given to maintain the existing trees and so many of the village’s structures are built around the sycamores, creating an interesting architecture and forgiving shade.

The stucco walls house an array of art galleries, retail shops, and restaurants. The cobblestone streets and mosaic fountains exude a charming, old-fashioned atmosphere.

top things to do in sedona arizona
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Conclusion

Sedona, AZ, offers an extraordinary experience and is definitely worth a visit! It’s no wonder travelers end up falling in love with this place and decide to call it home.

If you’d like to know more about the homes available for sale in Sedona, AZ, please give me a call today at 928-963-4855. You may also send me an email at victoria@sedonaluxuryhomes.com to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

In terms of weather, the best time to visit Sedona is March through May or September through November.

Yes, Sedona has four vortexes – Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon. These vortexes are believed to be swirling centers of energy that are conducive to healing, meditation, and self-exploration.

It is recommended to spend at least four days in Sedona, especially if you want to take advantage of its close proximity to unique towns like Flagstaff and Jerome.