10 Fun Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona [in 2024]

February 23, 2024February 23, 2024 cheerfultrails

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If you are looking for a fun getaway in Arizona, go to Sedona and check out some of our favorite spots below.

We were stunned by the beauty of Sedona. It is known as a natural gem of Arizona. Nature has blessed this place with some exceptional red rock formations that can leave you asking for more. Thus, providing you with hiking and biking trails, natural parks and most importantly star gazing points at night.

Most of the visitors travel to Sedona as a station near the Grand Canyon or a day trip from Phoenix. If you want to witness the real beauty of this city, below is the list of some of the most adventurous and exciting things to do in Sedona that can make your visit extremely memorable.

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Best Things To Do In Sedona, Arizona

1. Go Find Some Hiking Trails – Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock

Bell Rock - Things To Do In Sedona — Bell Rock – Things To Do In Sedona

Sedona is known for its hiking and biking trails. The layers of red rocks offer unbelievable views in the region and the years of geographic relocation of grounds have given some interesting terrains for people to hike and bike through them. Some of the most challenging and interesting ones are mentioned below that are curated to quench your thirst for adventure.

Devil’s Bridge

The Devil’s bridge is a comparatively shorter hike and if you are looking for a greater adventure then you must use it as a warm-up session. The round trip is 1.8 miles but your entire hiking route would take you through 4 to 5.8 miles. It would take 2 to 3 hours to complete the hike.

Cathedral Rock

If you have been impressed by the golden hour photography in Arizona, then those angelic pictures were most probably of Cathedral rocks. For better routes, one should take the north from the red rock crossing from the Baldwin Trailhead. Then continue from the Templeton Trail along the north side of the Cathedral Rock. Make sure you have a map with you. The total hike is 4 miles and takes 2 to 4 hours to complete. As this is a popular area for hiking and walking, you are going to run into a lot of people completing the trail just like you.

Bell Rock

It is an average trail route and is shorter than Cathedral rock but longer than Devil’s bridge trail. It takes approximately 45 minutes to complete the hike. It is a 1.8-mile loop trail. Though the trail is easily accessible, the loop at the bell rock trail is considered difficult due to the ascension where it is suggested to be cautionary. Bell Rock is also one of the most picturesque natural sites around Sedona.

Click here to book a private tour of Bell Rock or Cathedral Rock. It is inclusive of transport, an experienced guide and necessary passes/permits.

2. Take A Day Trip To The Grand Canyon

Sedona has a lot of things to attract travelers from around the globe and keep them entertained. The most famous attribute of this place is its proximity to the Grand Canyon National Park. The Park is a 2.5 hours distance from Sedona.

You would require an entire day to explore the Grand Canyon. Apart from watching the years of geological history displayed, thanks to the Arizona river, there are other things that you can do. These include enjoying the scenic views from Mather Point and Yavapai Observations.

The famous architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio is also here along with her Desert View Watchtower that you can visit. Most people prefer spending the night here because of the stargazing opportunities.

The best places to stargaze at night are Lipan Point, Yavapai Point and Mather Point on the Southern Rim. The views are spellbinding and it would be an unforgettable experience for you. Make sure you pack a good binocular to soak in the beauty of the magical night skies.

Click here to book your day trip to Grand Canyon from Sedona. It will be inclusive of a professional guide, round trip transport and complimentary lunch.

3. Be Mesmerized By The Oak Creek Canyon’s Scenic Views

Oak Creek Canyon - Things To Do In Sedona — Oak Creek Canyon – Things To Do In Sedona

If you do not have time to go to the Grand Canyon, then there is a local paradise waiting for you to have fun and be mesmerized. The Oak Creek Canyon situated 4.3 miles north of Sedona, takes you on a ride of some of the most captivating views that you are going to love. As soon as you start your journey, you would buy some memorabilia from the shops by native Americans who sell antique, colorful, handmade jewelry and here you can have a sneak peek of what awaits you in heaven.

As you will be moving further, the views would start getting more alluring and you won’t be able to help yourself but to capture them with your camera. For more personal encounters, you can spend some time at the park as well as go for a hike in nature. The sedimented rocks, the lush green nature and the natural cold water from the earth’s oldest sources would rejuvenate you. You can also take a fun jeep tour through the Oak Creek Canyon.

4. Be Amazed By Chapel Of The Holy Cross

Chapel Of The Holy Cross - Things To Do In Sedona — Chapel Of The Holy Cross – Things To Do In Sedona

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most spectacular churches that you are going to visit in Arizona. There are churches with ancient architecture and style, but the Holy Cross chapel has to signify the quality of its location, that is it is made among red rocks and buttes. You would witness the aisle of the Lord Jesus against the glass screen from where you can easily see the clear blue skies, thus making it a one-of-a-kind place to witness.

As the chapel is made on a cliff, the view from the church is also amazing. The church remains open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.

5. Find Some Peace At Amitabha Stupa And Peace Park

It is one of the favorite things to do in Sedona as per many travelers, whether you are with family or with friends. The Stupas are mostly found in the east and are rare in the west. These are founded by Buddhist monks and are considered sacred and pious. These are the factors that make Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park different, you cannot expect this in the west and yet here it is.

A 14-acre meditation and spiritual open land that is open for the people of all faiths. The different strings of colorful flags tied to the stupa make a homely décor where you can be at peace.

You can find Buddhist monks, and explore the place quietly. The local caretakers of the Stupa would love to give you a tour and explain to you the spiritual significance of the place.

6. Get Funked Up At Uptown Sedona

If you are planning to stay in Sedona during your vacation, you are most likely to stay at Uptown Sedona. Though most of the region has fun-filled natural adventures, it is the uptown that can funk you up. It has art galleries, antique shops, jewelry shops, restaurants, boutiques and clothing stores. Most of your tours would also start from here.

In your idle evenings, in the city, you would love to take walks among the local community of Sedona. A leisurely stroll through the Uptown Sedona is one of the most unmissable things to do in Sedona.

7. Get Your Body Chakras Balanced At The Vortexes

Vortex Tour - Things To Do In Sedona — Vortex Tour – Things To Do In Sedona

A lot of yogic gurus have been teaching you to get your body chakras balanced to lead a healthy and happy life. But did you know, there are special places called vortexes, where the natural vibrations can help you in doing it? Luckily, Sedona has a lot of places with high vortex energies where you can sit and relax or simply meditate to get those chakras balanced.

The famous vortexes are located at Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon. Some of these places are considered to have an energy flow upwards while others have downwards into the earth. Click here for a Sedona Vortex tour by jeep.

8. Go Jeep Touring

In the maze of red rocks and uneven routes, all paths are not safe for hikes and biking experiences. Therefore, Sedona has exclusive Jeep tours. These can take you to unreached places so you can enjoy the views without getting hurt or lost. These tours are available privately and with groups.

The tourists suggest these tours because of the views as well as the known facts that are shared with them by the guides. The Pink Jeep tours are the most famous ones. Going on a Pink Jeep tour is one of the most delightful things to do in Sedona.

9. Get Creative At Arts And Crafts Village: Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque is known as the “art and soul of Sedona”, and for all the right reasons. The green, vine-cladded, arched walls of the village make it a cozy and scenic place to visit. Once you are in Tlaquepaque, you will know the creativity of the people and generations that have been residing here.

The village consists of cobbled streets, with shops of arts, crafts and natural pieces of jewelry handmade by local artists and exhibited. Abe Miller was the founder of the village and wanted to design it in the old Mexican ways and thus you will feel the same here.

10. The Sedona Sight-Seeing Tour

Considering the unique natural beauty of Sedona, there are several sight-seeing tours for the tourists who have little time on their hands but want to enjoy the alluring views of Sedona to the fullest. If you are one of them, and simply want to skim through Sedona, then these sight-seeing tours are the best options for you. There are exclusive packages in these tours as well that include cultural packages, bus tours, hiking trails etc. So, you can simply enjoy everything according to your convenience as well as according to your interests.

These are the best things to do in Sedona, Arizona that would make your trip memorable. If you are looking for a great place to stay in Sedona, below you will find some of our best recommendations.

Where To Stay In Sedona, Arizona

Though there are many fantastic accommodation options available, area wise Uptown Sedona is the best place to stay in Sedona. It is the heart of the city. Many restaurants, bars, stores and must visit attractions are easily accessible from Uptown Sedona. Here are our top picks for accommodation which we found very convenient and comfortable for a stay in Sedona;

Budget (Upto $150) : Star Motel is the best budget accommodation in Uptown Sedona. The rooms are spacious, cozy and have mountain views. Other facilities include outdoor picnic area, free parking and free Wifi.

Mid Range ($155 – $250) : Matterhorn Inn is not only located at a prime location but it’s also one of the best hotels to stay in Sedona. It offers modern and spacious rooms with very convenient amenities such as a private kitchenette, work desk and a safety deposit box. Plus the rooms also have balcony showing off the best views of Sedona. Other facilities at the hotel include free parking, free WiFi access, swimming pools, patio and sun terrace.

Luxury ($250+) : L’Auberge De Sedona is the best luxury hotel in Sedona. The hotel has stylish and modern interiors. Rooms are well fitted with luxurious amenities. Suites and cottages have a fireplace, a cozy sitting area and balcony showing off beautiful views of the surroundings. Other facilities at the hotel include a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, bar, parking space (at a cost), free shuttle services and free WiFi.

10 Fun Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona [in 2024]

Best Things To Do In Sedona, Arizona