Trying to figure out the best things to do in Sedona, Arizona for your trip? Here we will list the mandatory experiences when you visit Sedona for your first time, Let’s dive in!
The moment you begin to drive through the Coconino National Forest towards Sedona, it’s obvious that something is different as red rocks start filling your line of sight. It looks as though the land is a completely different place. Suddenly something changes — the sky turns pink and energy shifts through your body, catching fire in the warm coral colored light of those towering red rocks.
Of course, Sedona is world renowned for its energy vortexes that are alleged to magnify spiritual and metaphysical attempts. A few of these vortexes sites find at the popular places to visit in Sedona. Though it is not the main intention behind this guide to dive deep into these aetherytes, we bide them because they add value.
Note: This article is a collaboration with our writer Rosie Queen, who has been to Sedona multiple times and loves the area. She writes this in her latest article, together with a few tips based on his results. Keep reading!
EDITORS TIP: here at the bottom of this article, we have a map showing all locations mentioned in Sedona. It can be downloaded to your computer or smartphone so you have it at your fingertips.
Read on for a detailed list of best things to do in Sedona, Arizona!
These Are the Absolute Must-do Activities in Sedona
1. Jeep Tours
For those of you who are hitting it for the first time, jeep tours top the list as one-of-a-kind Sedona experiences. These tours are some of the most popular activities, include rattling over the striking red-rock landscape off-road.
These 4WD tours are a unique opportunity to view stunning scenery that would be inaccessible otherwise. This is a must do, even if you are visiting Sedona for just one night.
There are so many different trips to choose from that it can feel overwhelming. Popular option — Outback Trail Jeep Adventure (great deal) A moderately active guided tour where you visit some awesome sites: Cathedral Rock, Bear Mountain and Thunder Mountain.
Of course, both tours provide gorgeous views and perfect photo opportunities!
Pro Tip: The ride is a bit bumpy, but nearly all jeep tours are family friendly and open to kids 2 years old and up. But if you have any health conditions then do check the details before enrolling.
Tip: Be sure to pack water and wear a hat or bring sunglasses, as it can get very hot being out in the middle of that much desert with nothing to shade you.
2. Sedona Trolley
Considered by many to be “The Best First Thing To Do In Sedona,” the Sedona Trolley tour is an ideal introduction and orientation to our area. We recommend doing this tour your first day in Sedona if you are staying for a few days to help get acquainted with the land.
Tour “A” takes you through South Sedona where we pass town and visit the famous Chapel of Holy Cross for some amazing photos opps within the most incredible views.
The second tour, Tour B lopes along the west side of Sedona into the red rock walls that tower Boynton Canyon National Forest. Goblins Valley is a place where you will find rocks looking like Thunder Mountain and Chimney Rock-ish.
You can choose to do just one or both tours. The tours are both 50 minutes in length with Boynton Canyon tour (Tour B) as the strongest seller. Between the tours, breaks can be taken for lunch and lunch can take you on a “Full City” Combo tour to see everything in 2 hours.
Pro Tip: Buy your tickets ahead. Tours go on everyday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
3. Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross One of Sedona’s most iconic landmarks, no trip to Sedona is complete without a visit to The Chapel. It was designed to blend into the red rock scenario and so gets wondrous views from its high perch.
It was the vision of Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a sculptor from Florida. Built in 1956 with the co-operation of architects Richard Hein and August K. Strotz, her vision was finally realized despite many setbacks because of WWII.
The magnificent cross that welcomes you inside and its expanse of glass windows, overlooking the red rocks The chapel, that also includes candle and prayer stations where visitors can leave offerings or pray for loved ones.
Travel Tip: The Chapel is open 9-5 PM daily and admission is free! More info on their website. There’s only so much parking space to spare, however. A very steep, winding walkway leads from the parking lot to chapel They have golf carts for those who need them.
PRO TIP : carry some change with you to tip the drivers of these golf carts or for getting candles.
4. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Be sure to put the Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village near the top of your list when deciding things to do in Sedona! This is not simply you run of the mill tourist place; it’s thoroughly intriguing and worthy for at least a couple hours worth of poking around.
Built in the 1970s, Tlaquepaque (pronounced T-la-keh-pah-keh) and translating to “the best of everything ”Takes it’s inspiration from an authentic Mexican village. Famous for having one of the most unique shopping experiences in all of the Southwest, this adorable village will keep you entertained.
Meander the cobblestone paths, take a moment to appreciate its stucco buildings and feel like you’re transported elsewhere. If you’re lucky, you can even see an artist at work on their newest masterpiece. The shops provide you a ton of interesting items while the restaurants serve delicious meals that will sate your appetite.
The Chapel in the village is an excellent choice for a ceremony if you are thinking of having destination wedding. It is entirely worth a visit, even if you have zero intentions of having your wedding there.
Details: Open 10 a.m.-5 or -6 p.m. daily, with some restaurants open for dinner. You can read more on the official website.
Pro TIP: For much more lively entertainment come in the afternoon.
5. Energy Vortex Sites
Sedona’s vortex sites have long been known for their supposed healing abilities, attracting visitors looking to restore the body and mind. Unbelievable as those may sound, the landscapes are reason enough to check out these places.
Are these the only places on Earth that have this energy? When asked, rising enthusiasts give a variety of answers — the kinetic energy uproots lush flora to twist like yarn in wind tornadoes; rock formations resonate with their own unique frequency so intense that your whole body tingles. For some, the force of a Sedona vortex is more cerebral and metaphysical: one becomes enveloped in this feeling that they are not alone.
For those interested in a more intangible spiritual awakening, Sedona is also known for all its psychic centers and New Age shops. There are also spas that have detox treatments, etc.
Here are four of the main energy vortex sites located in Sedona: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon and Airport Mesa. Vortex energy or not, most can agree these landmarks are awe inducing in their natural state.
It will not be uncommon to even see people doing yoga or meditating in these spaces. Feel the vibe and judge it by yourself.
Some of Sedona’s vortex sites can be visited via organized tour, while others you’ll have to seek out on your own. Each one is a must-see, and more information on evey location listed separately in our guide to Things to Do & Attractions in Sedona .
Please note: One will need Red Rock Pass for visiting most of the mentioned sites For further information, please refer to the ‘practical tips’ section at the end of this article.
6. Cathedral Rock
As one of the most powerful and also picturesque spots in Sedona, Cathedral Rock is great for hiking or biking as well as horseback riding.
If you prefer something a bit more laid-back, opt to take the Templeton Trail down to Oak Creek. Later, as you’re near the creek be on the look out for so called ‘Buddha Beach,’ a small area with hundreds of rock cairns built by visitors. A more gentle option is the Baldwin Trail, which simply winds its way through a short and easy walk.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, and with some climbing under your harness, Cathedral Rock Trail is where you should be headed next. A little more than an hour to 1.5 hours is needed to complete this moderate, 1.2 round trip hike within Lost Dutchman State Park itself it’s a great couple or family workout! It ends with a steep climb up to the col located at Cathedral Rock Saddle, 740ft (225m) in elevation gain but just how short really depends on where you start from. This is a difficult hiking, proper grip shoes needed to enjoy this trek.
FYI: Trailhead is reached from tiny parking area on Back’O’ Beyond Rd, that can fill up quickly. Or you could network out on the Baldwin or Templeton trails discussed above.
TIP: This is a classic Sedona hike — hit it if you have time for a 0.5mi steep climb It is advised to reach as early in the morning both beat heat and crowd. So try to head out early (parking is filled by 7:30-8:00 during busy season), but there’s high trailhead turnover with the quick ascent so you shouldn’t have too hard of a time finding parking.
7. Bell Rock
Bell Rock, a towering red rock formation, is another must see landmark in Sedona. Known for it’s strong energy, this site is shaped like a massive bell, which gives it its name.
While you can view Bell Rock from several pull-offs along Highway 179, a closer exploration is well worth your time. The area features a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails, offering different perspectives of this impressive formation.
There are two main parking areas that provide access to the Bell Rock Trailhead. From here, you can walk the loop around the rock or even venture up to its summit. With numerous trails crisscrossing the area, you can decide on the spot how far you want to go and which path to take.
TIP: It’s recommended to park at the North Bell Rock parking area (as marked on the map below). Parking at the south lot requires a one-mile hike northward to avoid a steep climb up the south side of Bell Rock. Find a quiet spot along the trail to pause, close your eyes, and feel the energy that this site is famous for.
8. Boynton Canyon
Magical Boynton Canyon is considered one of the most powerful vortex sites in Sedona where you can literally feel and reach its energy; Distance: It is located right around half a mile from the Boynton Canyon parking area, so there are very less chances of you missing out on it.
It is a moderate hike to the vortex, with some incline dust scrambling but it is suitable for young children as well.
PRO TIP: ambitious hikes can walk the circumference of Enchantment Resort and even further into the canyon. Throughout this area you will find interesting energy circles and rock cairns that visitors have created over time. A place that truly captures the spirit of Sedona, many believe Boynton Canyon to be one of the top-shelf exploration places it has. Trailhead: The trailhead is located in a small parking area on Back’O’Beyond Road, though it tends to fill up fast. Or instead begin at those same Baldwin or Templeton trails.
HOT TIP: One of Sedona’s premier hikes, if you want a short but archaically steep ascent go for it. It is best to go in early morning before the sun comes up because it gets very hot and crowds fast. The parking area gets full by 7:30-8AM, but turnover is high as the hike short and close.
9. Airport Mesa
Airport Mesa is a very popular vortex site, being close to the edge of town with easy access. The short drive is well worth it as you will able to take panoramic 360-degree views!
Drive your way up those snake-like paths that leads to the parking lot only to kick it into full force hiking gear in order hike all the way up and over. Between them are many contorted trees, and some have reported colored orbs that appear in the sky over the desert—New Age enthusiasts elsewhere would argue they’re shapeshifting UFOs.
From the parking lot take a left (marked at about 200 ft from the lot) and then make you way to over look trail. It is a short trail, but it has an incline so decent hiking boots are recommended.
Pro tip: Airport Mesa is one of the best places to go stargazing (another must do when visiting Sedona) as it provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself under these magnificent stars. Sedona is even a designated Dark Sky Community by the International Dark-Sky Association, meaning it’s one of the best places for star gazing. And who knows, during a new moon you may also catch some beautiful views of the milky way. It is a great spot to throw out a chair or set up a telescope and watch the show.
PRO TIP: Try using an app to look up constellations. If you want to watch the stars, see here for moon phases and weather in your area! Or better yet, sign up for a stargazing tour to show you all the best spots and teach you about the stars as well.
10. Oak Creek Canyon
Arizonas most beautiful sights is Oak Creek Canyon a river gorge sitting between the towns of Sedona and Flagstaff. State Route 89A is one of the most beautiful drives in Arizona, and among its top views are several along this stretch between Sedona north to Oak Creek Vista.
It’s one of the prettiest drives in America and a must-do when you visit Sedona. It also is a beautiful entrance to Sedona if you are driving up from Flagstaff. I never cease to be amazed when I come around another bend in the canyon and witness just how everything has changed by wind.
Bear in mind this road can become very busy, especially during the high season. Go slow, breathe deep and take it all in. If you would prefer a stress free way to see all the views, maybe do consider joining one of our tours.
Photographers will have a field day here, and there is no shortage of vantage points to capture the beauty. Look for the many pull-offs with scenic vistas. Additionally at the rim top overlook is cultural and interpretative shopping with authentic Native American jewelry, clothing/baskets & other hand-made gifts.
PRO TIP: If you like to go hiking, the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon is fantastic. On this path, Slide Rock can be a fun stop for families with children. Some additional information follows.
11. Slide Rock State Park
Located along the scenic Oak Creek, Slide Rock State Park is a great getaway for visitors of all ages. It’s somewhere between a water hole, natural slides and great hiking for all abilities with some jumping off rocks.
Named for the slick stones along a creek that become natural water troughs as it flows over them, The spring is a great place to beat the heat of Arizona summers, and indeed — at 75 degrees Fahrenheit year round — naked bodies cavorting in crystal-clear waters feel as though they are swimming through cool champagne. If you want to swim, it’s warmest months are the best time of year—also wear water shoes or sandals with good traction.
There are around half a dozen natural pools in the park that you can swim in, and of course various slides as well. There are also two cliff jumps, the first being around 10-12 feet high and an even higher one for those feeling a little more daring.
Alternatively, chill out and enjoy the view with a chair or hike by the river. This is the perfect place for families to visit while in Sedona – slide rock really gives you a full day of fun and everyone will enjoy it.
Slide Rock State Park is located 11 miles north of Sedona. The cost of entry was $20 — or maybe it was $30; we only had bills on us and the park gate isn’t staffed to make change. From the parking lot it is about a 5-minute walk to reach the river. The park’s website has everything you need to know, including essential details and opening hours.
Pro-Tip: Get there early (but not too early), just in time to beat the midday rush with water temperatures that may be a little chilly late into afternoon. Pack your towels, swimsuit, water shoes and a picnic lunch for an entire day of fun.
12. Devil’s Bridge Trail
Hell’s Bridge, the largest natural sandstone bridge in Sedona is hands down one of best hikes around. It can be accessed via several routes, but you will need a 4×4 to get there What follows are the two most common possibilities:
If you have a 4×4, simply drive down Vultee Arch Road and the trailhead can be found on site. The hike from here is about 2 miles round trip.
If you don’t have 4X4 to park by the trailhead of Devil’s Bridge Trail, an alternative option would be parking at Mescal Trailhead on Long Canyon Road. From here it is almost a mile to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead and another mile from there through rugged terrain over rough-hewn steps until you reach ancient, natural bridge. This is a 4.2 mile round trip hike.
It is easy and moderate 2.3-mile hike that you can start from the trailhead, which takes about an hour to reach your destination over a flat or slow downward slope. dependence This hike is moderate, only requires beginners-endurance. As you build up to the bridge, steep stairs give way to short but real climbing (maybe using hands). This is the most difficult section of mileage on The Trail.
Watch out for that—the bridge has no rails, so mind your steps. Although, the top has enough width to give it a cushiony feel. And when you get to the top (to take that perfect photo) queues! You might just want to grab a friend who hikes and stow some portable tripod in your backpack – selfies do not quite do the grandeur justice.
PRO TIP: Remember to bring a hat and be sure you are properly hydrated! And two be real, no matter how much you think you’ve packed.. it’s always smart to bring 1 more bottle per person.
Pro tip: make sure to buy a Red Rock Pass and put it on your car windshield.
13. Crescent Moon – Red Rock Crossing
Sedona offers a variety of secluded swimming holes that provide a perfect escape under the sun. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds at Slide Rock State Park, Crescent Moon Ranch and Red Rock Crossing offer a fantastic alternative with a lesser-known swimming hole complete with a swinging rope. This spot is truly a hidden gem near Sedona!
The location is ideal, offering a stunning view of Cathedral Rock in the distance. The water here tends to be warmer than at Slide Rock, and the area has plenty of shade. To reach the swimming hole, head to the east end of the park and follow the trail—check our map for the exact location.
TIP: Arrive early, as the parking area fills up fast. If you plan on swimming, don’t forget to bring towels, swimwear, and water shoes. The area is also particularly beautiful at sunset, offering excellent photo opportunities.
14. ATV Tours, Air Tours, Wineries & More
Sedona is more than it’s main attractions, though; there are a lot of other things to do that will appeal to different tastes. You can, of course, go further and explore more adventurous destinations once you have time. Here are some great options:
- Off-Road ATV Tours : If you want to get a little deeper into the landscape and wander off the path, this is for you. You have two options: Hiring an ATV to embark on your own or joining a guided group tour.
- Air Tours: For the ultimate Sedona experience for a special occasion or if you just want to splurge and see Sedna’s red rocks from above, take an air tour. The hot air balloon rides or helicopter tours are especially popular. Sedona Air Tours offer a unique perspective on Sedona.
- Sedona is full of great wineries that are the perfect way to end a day. You can also enjoy a winery tour and try tasting some of the local flavors while taking in all that lovely scenery.
- Kayaking: Sedona doesn’t offer kayaking options but nearby Cottonwood, just 20 miles down the road offers awesome kayak tours where you can enjoy area waters and picturesque views.
- Day Trip to the Grand Canyon: It is less than 2 hours from Sedona so you can take a day trip. Another interesting experience to consider would be taking a railroad tour on the Grand Canyon. This is a tour that allows you to take advantage of both train and car transportation on beautiful patios at the South Rim and East Rim, with some picks.
- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend day trip: Located nearby, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are a must-visit to witness the beauty of Sedona. There are organized tours which will take care of everything, such as permits. Although it can take a full day, the magnificent panoramas are worth missing by passing.
15. Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure
Your family will love the experience of traveling onboard the Verde Canyon Railroad, a historic train that travels over 110 years through Arizona.
Ride through the desert on this 4-hour adventure for a over round-trip, with fantastic views of Sedona’s wilderness.
These scenic beauties only accessible by vintage train car, open-air platform car and our elusive caboose while traveling through the picturesque Verde River Valley. This is just a taster to the area’s natural and cultural flavours available on this ride.
With each train car featuring oversized windows and cozy living room-style seating, you’ll enjoy the stunning vistas of the Verde Valley (complete with glimpses of Arizona wildlife and striking geology) as if in a luxurious railway carriage.
You’ll travel through a 734-foot tunnel that’s more than a century old and nearby see otherworldly vistas of Sinagua cliff dwellings, high desert flora and fauna, Verde Canyon itself plus some historical mining sites.
16. Uptown Sedona
Immerse Yourself in the Magic of Uptown Sedona, The Main Street District where it all began for our quaint hometown.
Uptown Sedona: As the heart of town, Uptown promises a feast of crimson views from every storefront along your shopping and dining walk or sway.
Another place that you shouldn’t miss is the Sedona Heritage Museum which offers visitors an insight into important events in the town’s history such as early settlers, cowboys, movies and ranches, along with details about local lifestyles of yesteryear including stories from orchards surrounding this former watering hole.
Sedona Arts Center — With vibrancy reflective of the locale, local artisans are highlighted in a variety of mediums including jewelry, textiles and paintings at Sedona’s community arts hub.
Take time out to walk through Sedona’s Main Street District and see the shops like The Hike House, Crystal Magic or Quirks of Art just a few among many others.
After a day of exploring downtown, your tastebuds will thank you for hitting up SaltRock Southwest Kitchen and Wrap Shack or Cress on Oak Creek to gaze by the fire while gorging Three Snow Rosby Chanterelles escalloped with smoked white van heroin-truffle just gras!
17. Day Trip to the Grand Canyon
This tour provides the ideal way to experience one of Mother Nature’s most impressive natural wonders —The Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon, one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., has to be on your list.
This is an inclusive Grand Canyon Tour out to see the Grand Canyon from Sedona or Flagstaff that includes small groups no larger than 14 people, for a more personal experience.
You will travel through ancient lava fields, see ruins left behind by early Native Americans at Wupatki National Monument and be amazed at the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.
The major attractions of the tour include views of Grand Canyon and picturesque Painted Desert. So it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular day trips from Sedona!
Traveling along the South Rim and East Rim, you will stop at panoramic lookout points to see everything from scenic overlooks to hiking trails.
Having taken in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, savor a Southwestern lunch on a Navajo Reservation at Cameron Trading Post.
18. Relax at NAMTI Spa
Take a break from discovering the red rock landscapes of Sedona with an apres-hike massage at NAMTI Spa.
Located conveniently off the 89A, NAMTI Spa delivers a broad spectrum of treatments from facials to waxing and deep tissue massages to acupuncture with its traditional or needle-less methods alongside therapeutic massage as well as natural skin rejuvenation through their medi-spa processes. Treat yourself to a couples massage if you are traveling with your boo!
At NAMTI Spa, every treatment is a tailored journey that not only offers you the rejuvenation and refreshment but also revival.
Bolstered by a professional team of staff and relaxing ambiance, this is one spa that should definitely be on your list whenever you make it to Sedona.
19. Red Rock Loop Trail
The Red Rock Loop Trail is the perfect example of a hiker’s paradise in Sedona. Challenging: This 1.4-mile loop circumvents Schuerman Mountain along and offers a moderate hike with low traffic.
The skinny trail runs from Sedona High School to Lower Red Rock Loop Road and is an amazing path for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding. Pass by Sedona’s famous red rocks en route.
20. Bearcloud Art Gallery & Native Cultural Center
For a brief pause from the red rock vistas of Sedona and into mystical artistry, as well cultural history.
Bearcloud, Jane Osti, the beautiful ceramics by North American artists with local and Navajo Pueblo pottery Lucy Luppe McKelvey are just some ofthe guest Artists at Co-founded Gallery. His art feels more sacred of the three for me, and every time I go into that painting to feel it in my heart soul is connected to a labor class philosophy.
Handcrafted necklaces by Stoneweave and the now famous Manitou figures, sculptures that take after Kachinas but with a distinctive Ojibwa twist.
The Natives Cultural Centre, part of the gallery today is also built to remember a region’s original inhabitants. It gathers some pictures of nearby pictographs and petroglyphs, as well local Verde Valley and Northern Arizona artifacts. It also offers knowledge about the ancient customs, lore and spiritual beliefs of the indigenous peoples who were first in this area.
21. Craft Beer in Sedona
After a day of hiking and sightseeing Sedona’s jaw-dropping landscapes, there might not be better relaxation than grabbing a cold one at some of the best breweries in the area.
Sedona Beer Company — All craft beer fans need to stop here and sample their regular brews using locally sourced components from the Verde Valley. Complete your day with a glass of their craft beer, Burger in Borges’ Drink and then the chorizo mac & cheese.
22. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park, rests at the base of Thunder Mountain and provides a spiritual sanctuary for individuals seeking renewal and meditation. The land sprawls 14 acres and is open to all who wish sit in meditation, circumambulate the stupas or find solace.
The park’s focal point is a 36-foot Amitabha Stupa, named after the Buddha of Limitless Light. The White Tara Stupa, a more modest 6-foot stupa ideal for prayer and meditation that can be found by the larger pyramid. The ancient architectural style of these stupas, based on sacred geometry is 2,600 years old and in use since the time of Lord Buddha. As with other stupas in the world, these pagodas contain relics Pinentisucle, precious particles of colors red / pink.
In this peaceful environment, you will return with a refreshed mind!
23. Wine Tour to the Verde Valley
Take the opportunity to be part of Sedona’s winemaking history with this Wine Tour for Verde Valley Vineyards.
Ride in luxury via custom-built Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Turtle Top Van or Ford Expedition as you hit up four of the regions most famous wineries.
Our first stop will be at Alcantara Vineyards & Winery, one of Arizona’s most lovely wineries where you can enjoy discounts on all tastings. Next we head to Page Springs Cellars, the biggest winery in Verde Valley. At Javelina Leap Vineyard, Winery & Bistro you will tour the vineyards and see where they make wine (and their barrel room), before heading to Oak Creek Vineyards& Winery.
Included on the tour is a private picnic lunch at one of the wineries, with each guest receiving their own personalized charcuterie tray. A charcuterie tray of French bread, hard salami, gourmet cheeses, and grapes is served along with olive oil & vinegar, nuts, and chocolates to share — best accompanied by a glass of red or white wine.
24. Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art
There is no going back to your art hunt without experience fine, stunning collection if you are in this gallery of Exposures.
Located in the heart of Sedona’s Gallery Row on State Route 179, this gallery has been named “Best Gallery” and “One of The Best Galleries in America”.
Founded in 1996 by Mary and Diane Herman, Exposures has been an industry pioneer for more than twenty years. After entering the sculpture garden at Eisenhower Park (you will easily find your way into the main gallery of Sculpture in Motion), you are greeted by one work after another, each more intriguing and experiential than its predecessor.
The gallery, measuring 20,000 sq.ft., hosts the work of more than a hundred premier artists of our own time. This collection features bronze sculptures, glass art, exquisite jewelry designs and attractive fountains along with original paintings (both acrylics & oils), mixed media pieces, cardboard pop arts by Ceresville artist Liz Wincup plus photography.
25. Stargazing in Sedona
If you are an enthusiast of astronomy or simply love to look up into the night sky, then a stroll outside after sunset in Arizona provides among one of the best stargazing options available.
Sedona Stargazing Tour offers a stargazer-led night-sky tour of Oak Creek with professional astronomers giving presentation on the solar system. View planets, observe distant galaxies and star clusters with this tour of the universe using a high-power laser pointer for pointing.
Sit back in a comfy chair and marvel at the sight of a sky filled will stars, all thanks to binoculars with an extra wide field-of-view.
This unusual tour, if not done already will capture your imagination and give you memories of Sedona Orion the likes of which have been rarely experienced before.
26. Eat with a View at Sedona Hideaway House
At Sedona Hideaway House enjoy fine dining in an Italian country style setting with some of the best views of the red rocks that are amongst all hideways.
In addition to the dining experience, guests will enjoy a relaxing environment along with exceptional service and an incredible selection of simple Italian home-style dishes that have all been given the chef’s unique take.
They have three outdoor patios where you can eat your meal, or sit at the full service bar and relax, one of two private dining rooms.
Start off with the tasty appetizers to wet the palate for entreés such as Grilled Fresh Salmon Pasta, Lasagna Rollatini di Vegetali and Blanco Cluster Piiza among others.
Leave room for dessert, with offerings like Chef’s Choice Cheesecake, Tiramisu and Ghirardelli Chocolate Flourless Cake.
27. Day Trip to Antelope Canyon
Take a day trip to Antelope Canyon if you want to witness the otherworldly beauty of Arizona firsthand in this America Southwest slot canyon, which requires booking through Navajo guides for entry.
Throughout the day, this natural wonder boast scenic vistas. TIP: Book a Antelope Canyon via Canyon X and Horseshoe Bend Scenic Tour to get the most out of your time here with an experienced Navajo guide. Make sure you have your camera out in time to capture the enchanting light beams that will bathe the golden sandstone walls.
On the way, pass through Navajo Tribal Lands where you can see traditional Native American art and crafts at Arizona’s largest historic trading post.
The tour will visit the iconic lookout over Horseshoe Bend, overlooking a meander of the Colorado River, and stop at Glen Canyon Dam – second only to Hoover in height among American dams.
28. Coffee from Ren Tao Roasting
One of the best places here to get caffeinated is a small, family-owned micro-roastery called Ren Tao Roasting.
This location in the breathtaking red rocks of The Village of Oak Creek features premium coffee, made from some amazing beans sourced sustainably all around the globe.
Its character is protected and transferred by being slowly roasted in small batches over Ren Tao Roasting handcrafted cast iron roaster, customed made in Holland Geisen.
If you have a cup of their flagship brew, the taste is yet to be surpassed; such rare perfection entails absolute natural sweet properties that not more than great coffee could provide.
Verdict
With that in mind here is our guide to the must have experiences around and near Sedona. The opportunities are endless as you can see.
If your stay is limited, select the most appealing sites and activities above those with which you can do without. If you have at least 3-4 days, then a combination of these places should be — for the hikes and beauty. If you are also interested in exploring the surrounding area or taking a day trip to Grand Canyon, then plan on staying at least 5 days.
