8 Best Things to Do in Sedona For Your First Visit
Nestled among Arizona’s stunning red rock formations, Sedona is a breathtaking destination known for its scenic beauty, vibrant arts scene, and unique outdoor activities. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, art lover, or spiritual seeker, Sedona offers diverse experiences that make it one of the Southwest’s most beloved spots. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Sedona to help you make the most of your visit! Here’s a short list before we get into the details:
- Hiking and exploring Red Rock Trails
- Exploring energy Vortexes
- Scenic Drives Through Red Rock Country
- Visit Sedona’s Art Galleries and Shops
- Discover Ancient Ruins and Rock Art
- Enjoy a Jeep Tour
- Relax and Rejuvenate at Sedona’s Spas
- Stargazing in Sedona’s Dark Skies
- Visitor recommended attractions
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Hiking and Exploring Trails:
Sedona is a hiking paradise without question. I’ve been there 2x so far and have done 10 trails and I can’t wait to go back and explore more of them (while revisiting the ones I already did). Here’s just a short list of the top hikes to do:
- Cathedral Rock Trail: Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most iconic formations. The hike is short but steep, offering incredible views from the top. Go around sunset for the best light and an unforgettable experience.
- Devil’s Bridge Trail: Devil’s Bridge is the largest sandstone arch in Sedona and a favorite among visitors. The natural bridge provides a thrilling photo opportunity and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
- Bell Rock Pathway: Bell Rock is known for its unique shape and the spiritual energy believed to be present there. The pathway around Bell Rock offers both easy and more challenging routes, suitable for various fitness levels.
- See best hikes in Sedona for more.
Experience the Energy Vortexes:
Sedona is famous for its energy vortexes, which are believed to be places where the Earth’s energy is amplified, providing healing and spiritual benefits. Visitors from around the world come to Sedona to experience the unique energy in these areas, meditate, or connect with nature. Here’s some popular areas in Sedona that are believed to have these:
- Airport Mesa: Known for its panoramic views, Airport Mesa is considered a masculine, energizing vortex. It’s a popular spot for sunrise and sunset photography and has a short, steep trail to a viewpoint.
- Boynton Canyon: Boynton Canyon is known as a balanced vortex, providing a mix of masculine and feminine energy. This is one of Sedona’s most picturesque and spiritually significant trails.
- Cathedral Rock: Cathedral Rock is also a vortex site, known for its feminine, calming energy. It’s popular among those looking to connect with their spiritual side and meditate in nature.
Scenic Drives:
- Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179): Known as the “Gateway to Sedona,” this 7.5-mile drive offers views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and other formations. There are multiple pull-off areas for photos and access to hiking trails.
- Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive (Highway 89A): This winding drive takes you through Oak Creek Canyon, with views of towering red cliffs, dense forests, and the creek below. The drive is especially beautiful in fall when the trees turn vibrant shades of yellow, red, and orange. This is one of the most scenic drives in North America.
- Schnebly Hill Road: For those with a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle, Schnebly Hill Road offers a rugged adventure with panoramic views. It’s one of the best places to see Sedona’s red rock formations from a higher elevation.
Visit Art Galleries and Shops:
- Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village: Modeled after a traditional Mexican village, Tlaquepaque (pronounced T-lockey-pockey) is an outdoor shopping complex featuring art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s a charming place to stroll, with cobblestone paths, fountains, and beautiful arches.
- Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art: This expansive gallery displays a wide variety of art, including sculptures, paintings, and jewelry. It’s known for its impressive collection of Southwest-inspired pieces and unique sculptures.
- Sedona Arts Center: As Sedona’s oldest arts organization, the Sedona Arts Center offers rotating exhibits, art workshops, and a chance to meet local artists. It’s a great stop for art lovers who want a taste of the area’s creativity.
Discover Ancient Ruins:
- Montezuma Castle National Monument: Located about 30 miles from Sedona, Montezuma Castle is a cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago. It’s one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America, with a fascinating history and a scenic setting.
- Palatki Heritage Site: Just outside Sedona, Palatki is an ancient cliff dwelling and rock art site, providing insight into the lives of the Sinagua people. Guided tours are available to explore the site and view the rock art, which includes symbols and images carved into the cliffs.
- Honanki Heritage Site: Located near Palatki, Honanki features similar cliff dwellings and rock art. It’s less crowded and offers a serene, historical experience in a beautiful setting.
Enjoy a Jeep Tour:
Sedona’s rugged landscape is ideal for Jeep tours, which offer a fun and adventurous way to explore the red rocks.
- Pink Jeep Tours: One of the most popular tour operators in Sedona, Pink Jeep Tours offers guided trips to some of the area’s most scenic locations, including Broken Arrow, which takes you on a thrilling off-road adventure with stunning views. Check ticket prices.
- Safari Jeep Tours: Safari Jeep Tours offer a variety of options, from sunset tours to stargazing experiences. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating information about Sedona’s geology, history, and plant life. Check prices.
Relax and Rejuvenate at Sedona’s Spas:
Sedona is known as a wellness destination, with many spas offering treatments inspired by the area’s natural surroundings.
- Mii amo Spa: Located at the luxurious Enchantment Resort, Mii amo is a world-class spa offering unique treatments inspired by Native American healing traditions. Book in advance, as it’s one of the most popular wellness destinations in Sedona.
- Sedona’s New Day Spa: This award-winning day spa offers a range of services, from massages and facials to body scrubs and wraps. It’s a great place to unwind and recharge after a day of exploring Sedona’s trails.
- Amara Resort and Spa: Located near Uptown Sedona, Amara Resort offers relaxing spa treatments and views of the red rocks. Their specialty treatments use locally sourced ingredients, making it a unique wellness experience.
- Read Sedona spar reviews and recommendations
Stargazing:
Sedona is recognized as a Dark Sky Community, making it an ideal location for stargazing. There’s a bunch of ways you can enjoy that experience here:
- Stargazing Tours: Join a stargazing tour with professional guides who provide telescopes and expert insights into Sedona’s night sky. Tours are typically held in remote locations to minimize light pollution, offering stunning views of the stars and constellations. See tour options.
- Best Times for Stargazing: The best times for stargazing are on clear nights, particularly during new moons when the skies are darkest. Winter and fall often provide the clearest skies for stargazing in Sedona.
When to visit:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is also one of the best times to visit Sedona, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. Wildflowers bloom across the red rock landscape, and the weather is ideal for hiking, exploring energy vortexes, and scenic drives. However, it’s also a popular time, so expect some crowds, especially around spring break.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is my favorite season for Sedona, with temperatures similar to spring, usually between 60°F and 80°F. The fall foliage in Oak Creek Canyon adds beautiful color, creating a scenic backdrop for hikes and photos. This season also tends to be less crowded than spring, especially after mid-October.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is Sedona’s quietest season, with cooler temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F during the day and colder nights. While snowfall is rare, it occasionally dusts the red rocks, adding a magical touch to the landscape. Winter is a great time for those seeking tranquility, mild hiking weather, and dark skies for stargazing.
- Summer (June to August): Summer in Sedona can be extremely hot, with temperatures often reaching 90°F to well over 100°F. Early mornings and evenings are best for hiking and exploring, while midday is ideal for visiting art galleries, shops, or enjoying a spa day. Monsoon season (July to early September) brings brief, intense rainstorms that create beautiful cloud formations and vibrant sunsets.
Last Things to Know:
Sedona is a magical destination that offers a variety of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re hiking to the top of Cathedral Rock, exploring ancient ruins, or relaxing at a world-class spa, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful red rock oasis. With its stunning landscapes, spiritual energy, and vibrant arts scene, Sedona promises an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors!
