Also called “Red Rock Country,” Sedona, Arizona is a scenic destination that sees some 400,000 guests each year. Nestled in what many recognize as a geological wonderland, Sedona offers its visitors a broad range of picturesque attractions and interesting tourist spots.
Complete with everything from shopping centers to one-of-a-kind restaurants and beautiful parks and points of interest, there are things to do in Sedona for every member of the family. Wondering what attractions in Sedona you should include in your itinerary? Check out this list of Sedona attractions that you shouldn’t miss.
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If you've ever seen a postcard from Arizona, you've probably already seen Cathedral Rock.
This majestic sandstone butte is one of the most photographed locations in all of Arizona and sits right on the Sedona skyline.
That said, it's easy to see why this representative natural landmark is also one of the attractions in Sedona that you shouldn't miss.
The trail to Cathedral Rock is relatively short, making it the perfect day hike for parents and their kids.
It can get pretty technical at some points, though, so it pays to wear the right gear.
Again, visiting during sunset hours makes the whole trip even more worthwhile, especially as orange sunbeams start to paint the majestic butte in their glow.
Address: Cathedral Rock, Sedona, AZ 86351
What better way to start your Sedona adventures than visiting the Chapel of the Holy Cross?
Burrowing into the red rock butte in Sedona, Arizona, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most famous religious points of attraction in the whole desert town.
The majestic destination sits atop a cliffside and touts beautiful, photogenic interiors that radiate a truly solemn vibe.
Most of those who visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross claim that the church is a vortex that seems to take its visitors into an entirely different dimension.
But whether or not you encounter the out-of-body experience, there's no denying the beauty and majesty of this top-rated must-see in Sedona.
Address: 780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
When you visit Red Rock State Park, you can look forward to being immersed in natural beauty while also benefitting from access to a host of recreational opportunities.
The park provides access to everything from bird watching, fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing with a picnic in one of the park's many shaded areas.
The park boasts several well-maintained trails that offer varying levels of difficulty, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Visitors can choose from trails that take them through lush green foliage or those that lead up to magnificent canyon views.
There is also a visitor center here, which is open daily. You can look forward to some very special events at certain times of the year, including a fascinating moonlight hike, which will allow you to see things from a whole new perspective.
Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Also Read: 25 Best State Parks in the US
Rising 4.919 feet into the sky, Bell Rock is an iconic destination in Arizona and a must-visit in Sedona.
You can take the Bell Rock Pathway, a trail that goes on for around 3.6 miles. When you take this pathway, you can look forward to some great views of the rock.
The wide, relatively flat path touts visible markings, making it especially easy to navigate, even for beginners.
If you end up adding Bell Rock to your list of Sedona destinations, you should expect quite a lot of people to share the trail with you.
Called ‘Bell Rock’ because of its bell-shaped silhouette, Bell Rock is just one of the many beautiful places to visit in Sedona, boasting the iconic red rock scenery that placed Arizona on the map.
Address: Bell Rock, Arizona 86351
Also called the Grand Canyon's smaller cousin, Oak Creek Canyon is a red rock river gorge teeming with life and beauty.
Around twelve miles in length and up to two thousand feet in depth, this canyon forms part of the Oak Creek Canyon scenic drive, which is a fourteen-mile drive between Sedona and Flagstaff.
The location touts freshwater swimming and fishing spots, a natural water slide, and photogenic picnic areas where you and your family can sit down, relax, and enjoy a hot meal while you soak up the cool breeze.
On some occasions, you'll find native American crafts for sale along the trails, made by local natives.
The beautifully handcrafted knick-knacks make the perfect souvenirs and come at pretty low prices in case you are trying to watch your budget.
Address: Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, AZ 83149
Tucked away near the Oak Creek Canyon, the Slide Rock State Park used to be an apple orchard.
Today, it’s recognized as one of the most iconic attractions in Sedona because of its beautiful landscape, natural freshwater pools, and diverse range of flora and fauna that thrive throughout the year.
Slide Rock State Park gets its name from the natural rock slide that formed along its bed, allowing visitors to literally slide through the watery creek for some wholesome family fun.
The park offers pristine freshwater pools, picturesque picnic locations, exciting bird and animal-watching opportunities, and fun gazebo-style exhibits.
All of this plays out against the gorgeous rock formations that serve as the backdrop for most of Sedona.
Address: 6871 Arizona 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Also Read: 25 Best State Parks in the US
Is walking for miles under the glaring sun a little outside your comfort zone? Don't sweat it – the Pink Jeep Tours has you covered.
Serving locals and guests since the 1960s, the Pink Jeep Tours provides a comfortable, safe, and adventurous way for visitors to experience and explore various trails throughout Sedona.
Whenever you book a Pink Jeep Tour, you get more than just an easy way through the canyon.
Pink Jeeps are driven by some of the most experienced trail drivers in the town, providing the utmost safety for you and your group.
These drivers also serve as your tour guides, offering a wealth of information about your chosen trail and, of course, taking all of the family and group photos you could ever ask for.
Address: 204 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Looking for an outdoorsy way to appreciate the beauty of Sedona, Arizona? The Airport Mesa deserves a place on your itinerary.
Of all the places to visit in Sedona, Airport Mesa is one of the few that provides 360° panoramic views of the entire town.
Located on Table Top Mountain, Airport Mesa is a hiking loop that's about 3.2 miles long. The moderate rocky trail is perfect for a walk, a jog, or a bike ride.
The formation has earned its name because it is situated next to the airport of the same name.
What people love about Airport Mesa is that it provides clear views of Sedona wherever you look.
Marvel at gorgeous rock formations on one side and map out all the different spots in Sedona for the next few days of your stay by peering over the town.
Address: 483 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Managed by the US Forest Service, the Palatki Heritage Center is one of the attractions in Sedona that paint a vivid picture of the town’s history.
Here, visitors will find well-reserved cliff dwellings that were actually lived in by Arizona native peoples.
The large and extensive dwellings feature original wall art and cave paintings, providing visitors with the closest possible look into the past of Sedona.
The Heritage Center features three different segments. The first showcases the native Sinagua dwellings.
The second segment of the trail explores other dwellings in the network, and then finally, the third segment features pictographs and painted symbols that represent every native culture to have ever occupied Verde Valley.
Address: 10290 North Forest Service Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
Feeling a little extra adventurous? Then the Devil’s Bridge Trail is one of the places to visit in Sedona that you shouldn’t miss.
The trail extends 4.2 miles on foot or 2.2 miles with a jeep. Called ‘Devil’s Bridge’ for a narrow section of the trail that floats just over the vegetation and rock formations beneath.
A favorite trail among locals and visitors, the Devil’s Bridge Trail sees loads of foot traffic most times of the year.
People who have been to the spot recommend planning ahead and arriving before 7 AM to make sure you get a parking spot. Otherwise, you might have to muscle it out with other cars spilling in from Boynton Pass Road.
Address: Devils Bridge, Sedona, AZ 86336
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Sedona, Arizona, consider a sunset stroll through the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout.
This location sits on the end of Airport Road and features unmatched sunset views of Sedona and the gorgeous rock formations that surround it.
The Airport Scenic Lookout provides the best views of Capitol butte and Coffee Pot Rock.
Because the Scenic Lookout gets quite a lot of visitors, the location provides ample parking with a flat parking fee of just $3, regardless of how long you stay.
Visiting just right before the sun sets should give you the best view of Sedona and the best opportunity for an iconic, once-in-a-lifetime photograph.
Address: 538 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Located in Jordan Historical Park, Sedona Heritage Museum houses a comprehensive and detailed history of Sedona, Arizona.
The museum has a series of fixed exhibits, including The Early Settlers, Ranching and Cowboys, and Orchard Industry which was a huge part of the Sedona locality's past.
Audio tours are available for a slightly higher entrance fee, but adults and children can walk through the Museum on a self-guided tour if they choose.
But that’s not all Sedona Heritage Museum offers.
The management regularly hosts activities like scavenger hunts, dress-up programs, and various other fun events to keep both adults and kids thoroughly entertained.
Address: 735 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
'Tlaquepaque' is a native Nahuatl Indian word that means 'the best of everything'. So when you step into the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, you can expect exactly that.
Taking refuge in the shade of towering sequoias, nestled right next to Oak Creek, the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a quaint point of interest artfully patterned after a traditional Mexican village.
Here, locals and guests will find an incredible range of fun places to visit in Sedona, including restaurants, jewelry shops, art galleries, and adorable little specialty shops that offer every kind of knick-knack you can imagine.
If you’re running on a tight budget, simply walking through the location can be a treat in and of itself, with its gorgeous stucco walls and cobblestone paths.
Address: 336 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Developed in association with National Geographic, the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is a privately owned outdoor destination that serves as a center for peace, contemplation, and clarity.
For spiritual seekers and faith explorers, the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is one of the most important places to go in Sedona, Arizona.
Stupas have long existed in the world’s history, mostly throughout the Eastern part of the globe.
But the stupa in Sedona, Arizona, serves the same purpose – to elevate its visitors to a higher plane of enlightenment.
Needless to say, the guests who travel to the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park in Sedona have been quite vocal about the many marvelous healing miracles that happen in the place.
Address: 2650 Pueblo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336
Pushing three miles into a box canyon, the Boynton Canyon Trail is yet another one of the many outdoor destinations in Sedona that you should add to your itinerary.
This scenic route takes you through colorful tunnels and trails that whisper with the sounds of distant fauna.
The three-mile trail reaches a beautiful climax at a slightly elevated vantage point encased in three towering vertical walls.
The beginning of the trail is pretty much exposed to the hot sun, so it pays to wear the proper attire.
Also, make sure to pack enough water and a fully charged phone or camera so you can capture every glorious turn of the majestic nature trail.
Address: Boynton Canyon Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Most Sedona tourist attractions are outdoor trails that explore the scenic views that embrace the desert town, and Broken Arrow Trail is no different.
The 2.8-mile trek is moderately challenging and may have you huffing and puffing if you’re not big on long walks.
Most people take slightly more than an hour to reach the trail’s end, but the beautiful rock formations along the way should make that time fly by.
Broken Arrow Trail is also available to bikers and even jeeps.
Most people call it the best jeep trail in Arizona, but traffic can sometimes get tight.
If you're planning a visit to Broken Arrow Trail, try to schedule it during off-seasons to avoid having to muscle your way through the throngs of visitors.
Address: 799 Morgan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Similar to Pink Jeep Tours, A Day in The West offers locals and tourists fun, adventurous ways to explore local trails that might be a little too difficult to traverse for you and your group.
This family-owned company provides 2-hour-long guided tours on 4x4 jeeps specially designed to crawl effortlessly over the rugged terrain of some of the most visited trails throughout Sedona.
Aside from the tour, A Day in The West also provides exciting activities at the end of some of its packages.
For instance, their Alcantara Vineyard trail takes you on a 2-hour trail ride, ending in an intimate wine-tasting experience at a local Sedona winery.
Address: 2900 W State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
If you're looking for creative things to do in Sedona, you might want to consider visiting the Sedona Arts Center.
This dynamic facility offers various exhibits in its art gallery that feature a large selection of local art made right in Sedona.
Dazzling jewelry pieces, stunning photographic pieces, and breathtaking paintings line the walls of the Sedona Arts Center.
But more than just the art gallery, the Center also hosts various programs to encourage creativity in both adults and children.
They offer seasonal workshops exploring multiple artistic mediums like pottery, painting, and photography.
Address: 15 Art Barn Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
If you've got small kids in tow and a lot of the harder trails are a little too challenging for their tiny feet, you can visit the Crescent Moon Picnic Site.
This slow and easy Sedona destination sits at the foot of Cathedral Rock.
The flat area has quite a few freshwater pool pockets that are shallow enough for children to splash around and play in without much danger.
Another one of the many scenic things to do in Sedona, the Crescent Moon Picnic Site provides visitors with a beautiful view of the red rock formations of Sedona as well as a quiet way to enjoy the sunset.
The place makes the perfect location for an intimate family picnic after a day of splashing fun in shallow freshwater ponds.
Address: 333 Red Rock Crossing Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
From the outside, the Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art seems to glow with the same glorious beams of sunlight that radiate throughout the canyons and trails.
Inside, this spacious art gallery features modern interiors and contemporary design, giving it true international appeal.
The Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art features paintings, photographs, statues, jewelry, and stained glass art pieces that come from various local and international artists.
They also have changing exhibits and guided tours that bring art to life with in-depth explanations and backgrounds for each unique, breathtaking exhibit.
Address: 561 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
If you've got a little extra to spend and you're looking for native, local pieces to take home to remind you of your Sedona trip, you should definitely pay a visit to Son Silver West Galleries Inc.
This local shop sells a variety of local pieces of art like pottery, antiques, and decor that boast a beautiful, authentic Southwestern aesthetic.
If you're not planning to buy anything, Son Silver West still definitely deserves a visit.
The photogenic store makes for a beautiful backdrop for your latest Instagram post.
And according to most visitors, the people in the store are definitely worth meeting, providing hyper-local information about Sedona culture and other things to do in Sedona.
Address: 1476 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
The Soldier Pass Trail is a 2-hour hike that extends for 4.5 miles.
The moderate difficulty trail is just one of the many trails across Sedona, but it sets itself apart with its Seven Sacred Pools.
Just 0.4 miles from the start of the trail, you’ll come across the iconic Seven Sacred Pools, which are essentially smooth ponds in the rock surface that form pools of freshwater from stagnant rain.
Further, into the trail, you'll pass by the Devil's Kitchen – a daunting sinkhole – and Soldier Pass Cave.
All these unique landmarks together make Soldier Pass Trail a definite must-see if you're hoping to really get the best of the trails that Sedona has to offer.
Address: Forest Service 9904 Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
No, Buddha Beach isn't your typical beach.
This natural stream flows through the Crescent Moon Picnic Park and sits at the foot of Cathedral Rock.
The beautiful, serene waterway is a ways away from the picnic site.
You'll have to walk a small gravelly path and pay $11 for your vehicle entry to get there.
Once you arrive, you’ll find beautiful freshwater streams and crystal-clear waters with breathtaking rock beds.
The silent surroundings make it the perfect place if you’re looking for a simple, secluded place to hang out with family and friends.
Address: Sedona, AZ 86336
Sedona locals are big on fishing, so it comes as no surprise that one of the best things to do in Sedona would be to visit their Rainbow Trout Farm.
Located in Oak Creek Canyon, Rainbow Trout Farm lets you catch your own lunch either with your own fishing gear or gear you can rent at the property.
The breathtaking views can immerse you in nature while the freshwater streams splash and flow with the lively activity of freshwater trout.
The facilities also have picnic areas, gazebos, and, yes, even a grill so you can prepare your catch and enjoy a fresh lunch with family and friends.
You can also bring your furry friend, as dogs are welcome on the property.
Address: 3500 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
The desert town of Sedona expects over 4 million each year, so they've prepared for the influx of guests through the development of the Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center.
Here, visitors can find every resource imaginable to help them plan their trip.
The Center provides printed maps and guides that provide detailed information on their trails and parks so you can plan ahead and determine which locations to add to your itinerary.
And then, of course, the Center itself makes for a worthy destination because of its modest yet attractive collection of rocks, artifacts, antiques, and other finds that help explain and explore Sedona's culture and local history.
The Center is also where you can buy tickets and passes for various trails and points of interest, so make sure you stop by to prevent any hitches in your trip.
Address: Red Rock Information Center, 8375 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86351
With the kids tired from a day of fun and exploration, it's time to enjoy a romantic moment at Lover's Knoll.
The place gets its name from its gorgeous sunset views that perfectly capture Cathedral Rock and Courthouse Butte, which both get painted a bright orange as the sun sets.
The quiet pullout destination is easy to miss, which means you won't find many people there because of the covert nature of the trail's entry.
So if you were looking for the perfect way to cap your Sedona trip or even a creative way to pop the question, you should definitely pay a visit to Lover's Knoll just as the sun dips below the horizon.
Address: 1891-1893 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Sedona, Arizona, has everything from breathtaking rock formations to immersive historical landmarks and elaborate museums. The Sedona attractions on this list just prove how diverse and interesting the location can be – whether traveling alone, with your special someone, or with the whole crew. So if you are planning a trip to Sedona, make sure to add these things to do in Sedona to your itinerary and discover just why the beautiful desert town has become the poster child for all of Arizona.