18 Iconic Things To Do In Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is desert oasis located about 100 miles north of Phoenix in the Verde Valley Region. It’s surrounded by outstanding red rock views, endless hiking trails, and loads of wineries. There’s so much to do, in fact, this small city manages to pull over 3 million annual visitors, making it one of the most visited places in Arizona!

With seemingly endless attractions and tour options, it can be a bit overwhelming. To help narrow things down, these are some of the most iconic things to do in Sedona, the crème de la crème if you will. Whether visiting for your first or fifteenth trip, there’s something for you!

Iconic Things To Do In Sedona, Arizona

Go Hiking

Sedona is famous for hiking, no surprise since the city is surrounded by outstanding natural beauty.

There are so many hiking opportunities within close proximity of Sedona, short trails, long trails, state parks, national forests, desert hikes, lush canyons… you want it, Sedona probably has it.

A few of Sedona’s most popular trails and hiking areas include:

• Boynton Canyon Trail
• Oak Creek Canyon
• Cathedral Rock Trail
• Airport Mesa Overlook
• Bell Rock Trail
• Devil’s Bridge Trail
• The Birthing Cave
• Fay Canyon
• Soldier Pass
• Bear Mountain Trail
• Coconino National Forest

Due to hot weather, large crowds, and limited parking, I would recommend hitting the hiking trail very early or in the evening. 

And as always, be sure to bring plenty water, snacks, and always clean up after yourself.

Go Stargazing

The main nightlife scene in Sedona is stargazing. The city is an International Dark Sky Community, meaning it has very limited light pollution. 

Even in the city, stargazing will be very impressive, all you need is a clear night. But if you want to venture out, consider stargazing in areas like Two Trees Observation Area, Merry Go Round Rock, Jordan Trailhead Observation Area, Crescent Moon Picnic Site, or Centennial Trail.

If you’re interested in learning more about astronomy, consider a stargazing tour. Check out this Sedona Stargazing Tour or a UFO Tour if that’s more your speed!

Vineyards & Wine Tastings

While visiting Sedona, enjoying the wine region is a must consideration.

Verde Valley is a dry, high elevation desert with cold mornings and hot afternoons… a perfect environment for growing grapes.

There are almost 20 vineyards in the region bottling reds, whites, sparkling, and blends.

DA Ranch, Page Springs, and Chateau Tumbleweed are among the most beloved vineyards, but there are tons of great options, to see them all check out the Verde Valley Wine Trail. 

The vineyards are all located outside of Sedona, requiring a car. If you don’t have a designated driver, there are ample shuttle options plus group and private wine tours available. 

Tip: If you’re not able to visit a vineyard during your stay, stop by The Art of Wine for an Arizona wine tasting. The wine bar is a great place to learn about local wines right in Uptown.

Go For A Scenic Drive

A great way to enjoy Sedona’s red rock landscapes and diverse desert terrain is to go for a scenic drive. 

The views in this area are excellent, so just about any drive will turn scenic, but Red Rock Scenic Byway, a 7.5 mile paved route, is definitely the most famous. Offering views of the famous red rock landscape, the Holy Cross, and Bell Rock, it’s easy to understand why so many love it.

Oak Creek Canyon Drive, Schnebly Hill Road, and Red Rock Loop are also good options.

Walk Around Uptown Sedona

The main hub of Sedona is Uptown.

Lining Arizona 89A you’ll find a long row of open air shopping plazas housing souvenir shops, boutique stores, crystal shops, and galleries, with restaurants and cafes mixed in.

It’s fun area to walk around, but it does get quite crowded during peak times. If possible, try to do this during off-peak hours.

Pink Jeep Tours Sedona

When visiting Sedona, you must go for a backcountry jeep tour in the jaw-dropping red rock landscape!

Pink Jeep Tours, in business since 1960, is one of the most popular jeep companies out here thanks to their unwavering reputation.

The company has a huge variety of tours to chose from. I’ve done Broken Arrow at sunset, which I highly recommend.

The tour included a two hour off-road adventure and two stops with stunning 360-degree views. Our guide, who had been with the company for 10 years, was very fun and provided us with a ton of information about Sedona, its history, and the surrounding landscape.

You can book your tour here: Pink Jeep Tours — I recommend booking this in advance, the popular tours sell out quickly.

If you’re looking for the most iconic thing to do in Sedona, an off-road guided tour is it.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Just 25 miles from Sedona is Montezuma Castle National Monument.

In 1906, this unbelievable piece of Native American architecture became the third National Monument dedicated to the preservation of Indigenous culture. 

Although public access to the actual castle was discontinued in the 50s, today a 1/3 mile loop takes visitors through a historical journey past the 5-story ancient apartment. 

Aside from lovely hikes or stop off at the Castle shop, there is also Montezuma Well situated about 10 minutes north. This is another site of extreme history, providing life for humans since as early as 11,000 CE.

Hike Devil’s Bridge

Among the most popular attractions in Sedona is Devil’s Bridge. It’s one of the largest sandstone arches in the Sedona area, requiring a 4.2 mile, out-and-back hike to access.

This hike is unique because you can walk onto the arch; in most places this would be a big no-no.

Behind the arch you’ll find excellent views of the area’s red rock desert covered in lush greenery, a unique landscape which has made this area so famous.

Snagging a photo on the iconic arch is a “must” on many visitor’s itineraries, so this attraction gets extremely crowded. During my visit, we began the hike at sunrise and still had to wait about 30 minutes for a photo on the arch. The earlier you can get here, the better. 

Slide Rock State Park

A favorite Sedona attraction in the hot summer months is Slide Rock State Park in beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. Known for its natural pools and natural rock water slide formed by slippery sandstone, it’s a very unique attraction.

It does get crowded (no surprise, since it’s absolutely perfect for kids), so it’s best to plan a weekday visit or stop by during off-peak times.

The park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, park events, and a u-pick apple orchard late August – early September. 

Tip: Whether or not you plan to visit Slide Rock State Park, Oak Creek Canyon is definitely worth seeing during your visit. This lush canyon offers excellent hikes and spots to relax along the river.

Chapel Of The Holy Cross 

One of the most unique structures in Arizona, this chapel juts straight out the red rock formations and provides unbelievable views, particularly at sunset. The architectural masterpiece combined with a spiritual aura makes this place a must visit. 

Gaze upon the incredible artwork, light a candle for a loved one, or stay for a full church service in the chapel. Or simply drive by and admire this exceptional chapel from outside.

No matter, you don’t want to miss one of the most unique cathedrals in the United States.

Looking for more non-hiking activities? Check out the Top Things To Do In Sedona Besides Hiking.

Verde Canyon Railroad

The Verde Canyon Railroad is a historic train ride following the Verde River as it winds through the area’s famous red rock landscapes. 

The 4-hour scenic ride offers stunning views of otherwise inaccessible landscapes, with comfortable indoor seating and open-air viewing cars to take in the scenery. It’s a really fun and unique way to see Sedona!

The train runs year-round with traditional rides, plus special events such as their Christmas ride, fall colors tour, stargazing events, wine routes, and more.

Check out ticket options at Verde Canyon Railroad.

Mountain Biking

Sedona mountain bikers have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of terrain, technical challenges, and endless scenic overlooks.

There is a massive network of trails in Sedona which range in difficulty (although, they lean more so on the challenging side), making this an excellent destination for biking.

Need to rent a bike? Thunder Mountain Bikes is a good option near Uptown and Absolute Bikes Sedona is a good option in the Village of Oak Creek.

Want to go with a guide? Check out Sedona Mountain Bike Academy.

Spa Day

With ample outdoor activities worth trying in Sedona, you’ll soon be craving some rest and relaxation. 

Luckily, there’s an abundance of excellent spas here as well. Spend a relaxing afternoon (or full day) pampering yourself with a deep tissue massage, full body wrap, facial, or some quiet sauna time.

There are many great spas to choose from in Sedona, a few popular options include:

• Sedona’s New Day Spa
• The Wilde Haven Hotel Spa
• The Spa of Sedona
• Gateway Cottage Wellness Center

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Located just south of Sedona’s main drag, Uptown, you’ll find Tlaquepaque Shopping Village.

The outdoor shopping center is home to boutique shops, cafes, live music, and tons of photo-worthy spots.

This is a great place to find unique gifts, trinkets, or a special souvenir.

Watch The Sunset

Simply put, sunsets in Sedona are spectacular. The vibrant reds, pinks, and purples glow against the bright red rock formations surrounding the city.

Good views are abundant in Sedona, you can watch the sunset from literally anywhere and enjoy excellent views.

If you’re looking for an extra special spot though, check out popular vantage points like Airport Mesa Overlook, Schnebly Hill, or Cathedral Rock. Just be sure to arrive early, these locations are much loved.

Visit An Energy Vortex Site

Energy vortexes are believed to be concentrated areas of spiritual or earth energy that enhance meditation, healing, and self-reflection, and Sedona happens to be quite famous for them.

Popular vortex spots in Sedona, like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock, attract visitors seeking rejuvenation and spiritual connection. 

Whether or not you believe in the vortex powers, these locations are undoubtably beautiful and serene. And since there are so many of them in Sedona, it’s likely you’ll end up at one during some point in your visit.

Red Rock State Park

For one of the most popular state park’s in the area, be sure to check out Red Rock State Park.

Located less than 10 miles from Uptown, it feels like a sanctuary away from the city with stunning red rock formations, ample wildlife, and scenic hiking trails along Oak Creek.

In addition to the network of hiking trails, you’ll also find biking and horse riding routes, plus daily programs hosted by the park including guided nature walks, bird watching, geology walks, astrology nights and more.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Morning person or not, a sunrise hot air balloon ride is a must consideration in Sedona. 

The towering red rocks and lush canyons that make up this region are extra special from above, and the bird’s-eye view allow riders to appreciate the scale of this huge, stunning desert.

Hot air balloons launch before sunrise and rides are typically 1 – 1.5 hours. There are a handful of guides here, all of which are reputable and run year-round.

With so many things to do in Sedona, it can be hard to decide what to do. I hope you’ve found this helpful in narrowing down your list and have the best time!

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Sedona and Arizona guides!

More Information For Your Sedona Vacation:

• 2-Day Weekend Sedona Itinerary
• Top Things To Do In Sedona (Besides Hiking!)
• Best Hotels In Sedona, AZ
• Day Trip To Sedona, Arizona (Easy One Day Guide!)

More Information For Your Arizona Vacation:

• Flagstaff, Arizona Guides
• Grand Canyon Guides
• Page, Arizona Guides
• Tucson, Arizona Guides