15 Best Things to do in Sedona, Arizona

Planning a trip to Sedona, Arizona? You’ve come to the right place!

We’ve spent a lot of time exploring this striking desert town, and Sedona quickly became one of those places we couldn’t stop thinking about. From the moment we saw the red rock formations glowing in the afternoon light, we were hooked. Between scenic hikes, spiritual vortex sites, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Sedona offers more than just photo-worthy landscapes; it’s a destination that sticks with you. 

Whether you’re craving outdoor thrills, relaxing vibes, or something totally unique, we’ve rounded up the very best ways to experience it all. Let’s dive into Sedona’s top tours and must-do experiences.

Things to do in Sedona, Arizona

1. Take a thrilling 4×4 Jeep tour of Sedona’s canyons

Sedona’s landscapes are best explored off the beaten path, but let’s be honest, most rental cars aren’t built for rugged desert terrain. That’s where this small-group 4×4 Jeep tour comes in. Instead of stressing over road conditions or missing out on the best viewpoints, let an expert guide take the wheel while you sit back and soak in the scenery.

This ride through Sedona’s canyons is more than just a scenic drive. The guides are innately familiar with the landscape and will point out hidden rock formations you wouldn’t notice on your own, along with an endless supply of fascinating local stories.

The route winds through Coconino National Forest, where red rock buttes tower over pine forests, and the desert meets the mountains in the most dramatic way. You’ll get to stop and capture Snoopy Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Bear Mountain—some of Sedona’s most iconic formations.

More than just sightseeing, this tour will make you feel truly connected to Sedona’s rugged beauty. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, offering a mix of excitement, stunning views, and a deeper look into the city’s rich history!

2. Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon

Most Grand Canyon tours hit the same overcrowded viewpoints, but this small-group Grand Canyon tour takes you through a lesser-known entrance for a more personal and immersive experience. Instead of battling crowds, you’ll explore ancient ruins, lava fields, and volcanic landscapes before arriving at the canyon’s most jaw-dropping vistas.

Our guide, Brian, made this tour more than just a sightseeing trip. His knowledge of the region’s history, geology, and Indigenous cultures turned every stop into a fascinating experience. 

We started at Wupatki National Monument, walking through the centuries-old Sinagua ruins and learning how this civilization once thrived in the harsh desert. Then, at Sunset Crater Volcano, we saw the lava fields that forced the Sinagua people to flee nearly 1,000 years ago. Standing there, you could almost imagine the eruption unfolding.

After a stop for lunch at the historic Cameron Trading Post at our own expense, it was time for the best part: Grand Canyon National Park. The route took us along both the East Rim and South Rim, offering breathtaking (and less crowded) views of the canyon’s vast gorges. Each stop gave us plenty of time to soak in the scenery, snap photos, and even explore a bit on our own.

This was one of the best ways to experience the Grand Canyon without the usual crowds. We really loved how this tour balanced adventure, history, and incredible scenery. Just read the 5-star reviews here to see why this tour is a favorite!

3. Cool off at Sedona’s swimming holes

Sedona gets HOT, and after a few dusty days exploring the desert, a swim in Oak Creek Canyon is the perfect way to cool off. Just 17 minutes from town, this scenic 12-mile (about 19-kilometer) canyon is home to several popular swimming holes surrounded by towering red rock cliffs.

Grasshopper Point is a favorite for a relaxing afternoon by the water. The day-use area offers picnic tables and restrooms, and parking costs $15 USD per vehicle. A short walk over the rocks leads to the cool creek, so make sure you bring decent shoes to protect your feet!

Red Rock Crossing and the Crescent Moon Recreation Area combine swimming with some of Sedona’s best views. Here, you can cool off in the creek while admiring Cathedral Rock. The area features picnic tables, restrooms, and $12 USD parking. Arrive early during summer, and consider adding the easy 1.9-mile (3-kilometer) hike to the Red Rock Crossing Vortex overlook.

Slide Rock State Park is the most popular swimming spot in Oak Creek Canyon, famous for its natural rock water slides. Once an apple orchard, the park now offers picnic areas, grills, restrooms, and a small market. Parking ranges from $20–30 USD depending on the season. While it attracts larger crowds, the unique slides and beautiful setting make it one of Sedona’s must-visit attractions.

No matter which spot you choose, Oak Creek Canyon offers a refreshing escape from Sedona’s desert heat and a chance to experience some of the area’s most beautiful scenery.

4. Take a train ride through Verde Canyon

While Sedona is famous for adventures that will have you trekking ascents in your hiking boots, this vintage train ride allows you to enjoy the views without all the cardio. 

The journey starts from a depot in Clarkdale, about a 30-minute drive from Sedona. While you’re waiting to board, take a few moments to wander the John Bell Museum! It’s full of artifacts and memorabilia surrounding the 100-year-old railroad. 

If you’re hungry, you can order lunch at the cafe on site or save your appetite for a full drink menu and the delicious charcuterie board served on the train car.  

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a fun champagne toast before enjoying nearly 4 hours with passing canyon views. The cabin is equipped with plush chairs, couches, and a cafe-style table and chair, which makes the journey all the more enjoyable!

My favorite part of the entire ride was the open-air viewing car, where you can feel the breeze, take in vast panoramas, and watch for wildlife along the way. I even spotted a bald eagle! From historic trestles to a tunnel carved through the rock, every mile offers something new.

It’s one of the most relaxing and scenic experiences in the region—no wonder this tour has hundreds of five-star reviews!

5. Go kayaking on the Verde River

Exploring Arizona often means dusty hikes or long desert drives, but what if you could cool off, take in stunning scenery, and add some adventure? That’s why this small-group kayaking tour down the Verde River is such a standout experience. With a gentle current, a few mini rapids, and plenty of gorgeous views, it’s beginner-friendly and just the right amount of thrill.

After checking in at the boathouse, you’ll get geared up with life vests, paddles, and kayaks before hopping on a shuttle to the river’s edge—no lugging heavy equipment required!

Your guides will provide experienced paddling tips that make navigating the 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) stretch easy and fun, even for first-timers. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter local wildlife, unique rock formations, and traces of Arizona’s copper mining history.

Mini rapids add just the right amount of excitement—fun enough for adventure seekers but still easygoing for families. Drifting through the lush riverbanks, watching birds glide overhead, and feeling the sun on your shoulders make for a peaceful experience.

This is the ultimate way to explore Arizona’s beauty from the water! Don’t just take our word for it—check out hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews here to see why this is the best kayaking tour in Sedona.

6. Go hiking

Visitors from all over the world come to Sedona to hike in its red rock beauty. Consider one or all of these trails for epic views and pictures! Devil’s Bridge is a full out-and-back route about 4.6 miles (7.4 km) and takes around 2–3 hours, depending on your pace and photo stops. You’ll see the  natural sandstone arch that is jaw-dropping in person and surprisingly wide once you’re standing on it (yes, you can walk across—it’s not as scary as it looks).

Bell Rock Loop Trail is a relaxed 2-mile (3.1 km) circuit that takes about 45 minutes to complete. It’s rated easy and is perfect for all ages and experience levels, making it a great choice if you’re traveling with family or just want something mellow after a full schedule.

If you’re looking for something challenging but short, head to the Cathedral Rock Trail! It is only 1.3 miles (about 2 km) in length but will have you scrambling up slippery rocks guided by basket cairns.

To access the trail, you can park at one of the two lots nearby on Monday – Wednesday (parking is prohibited at these lots Thursday – Sunday). During busy weekends, you can take the Sedona Shuttle Service directly to the trailhead.

7. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour of Western Sedona

Sedona’s landscapes are stunning, but let’s face it—most tours keep you stuck in a van, just looking out the window. If you want to ditch the crowds and dive into the action, this small-group ATV tour is the way to go. With an expert guide leading the way, you’ll rip through desert trails, climb rugged hills, and reach viewpoints most visitors never see.

Our guide, Adam, was super knowledgeable, patient, and full of great stories. He made sure everyone felt comfortable, whether it was their first or fiftieth time on an ATV. After a quick safety briefing and gear setup, we jumped into a van for a short ride to the trailhead.

Once on the ATVs, we kicked up dust, tore through rugged trails, and powered up rocky hills that tested our skills. We cruised past a winding desert stream, splashing through crossings, and followed remote trails leading to lookout points far from tourists.

At one stop, Adam pointed out filming locations from over 40 Hollywood movies, and it was easy to see why directors chose this wild, cinematic backdrop. But the highlight was reaching Skeleton Bone Mountain, 800 feet (244 meters) above the Verde Valley, where the panoramic views were unreal!

There’s a reason this tour has so many incredible 5-star reviews. It was pure adrenaline, unbeatable scenery, and a major highlight of our trip. Just don’t forget that damage waiver fees and security deposits are due at check-in!

8. Get around Sedona at your own pace with an e-bike

Sedona has no shortage of jaw-dropping sights like Cathedral Rock and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, but with restricted access roads and overflowing parking lots, actually getting close to them can be a challenge. That’s why this self-guided e-bike tour changed everything—we were able to ride right up to the views, lock up our bikes, and explore without the parking hassle.

Our adventure started at the Uptown Sedona shop, where the staff helped us get sized up with e-bikes, helmets, and a handy lock. After a quick orientation, we were zipping through scenic roads, avoiding traffic jams, and stopping wherever we wanted!

From photo ops at Bell Rock to exploring the art galleries and cobblestone paths at Tlaquepaque, we set the pace and followed our curiosity. It was our first time riding e-bikes, and honestly, it was way easier (and more fun!) than we expected.

We even cruised right up to Cathedral Rock and Chapel of the Holy Cross—no need to fight for a parking spot, just secure the bikes and enjoy the view! It was as if Sedona opened up just for us—no crowds, no pressure, just pure freedom to explore the red rock beauty on our own terms.

We had so much fun cruising past traffic, effortlessly climbing hills, and stopping wherever we wanted for photos and sightseeing. This is a must-do if you want total freedom to explore Sedona’s top sights your way!

9. Check out Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Get your shopping fix at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village!

A shopping experience like no other, Tlaquepaque combines artisan shops, eateries, a small chapel, and art galleries with vibrant landscaping and beautiful architecture. With over 50 vendors to choose from, you can make a full day of wandering this incredible space.

Shopping hours are 10 am – 5 pm Monday – Thursday and 10 am – 6 pm on Friday – Sunday. While there are free parking spaces on site, you can also take advantage of the free Sedona Shuttle to get here!

You’ll find everything from hand-crafted Native American jewelry at shops like Cocopah to bold Southwestern-inspired home decor at Showstoppers. Bringing home a colorful display of handmade Sedona style is the perfect souvenir.

Make sure to visit Tlaquepaque North just across the street as well; it’s an extension that was built in 2016 with all the same charm and architecture as the original village. 

10. Discover Sedona’s iconic vortexes and mysticism

Sedona’s vortexes are legendary, but finding them on your own can feel impossible. With vague directions, conflicting maps, and no markers, it’s easy to wonder if you’re standing in the right spot. That’s why this small-group Jeep tour is the perfect solution. You’ll visit multiple vortex sites with an expert guide to explain their history, significance, and unique energy.

Each guide has a deep passion for these peaceful sites. They’ll encourage you to keep an open mind and simply see what you feel at each location. You’ll learn how these energy sites connect Chinese medicine, Indigenous traditions, and New Age mysticism.

These vortexes have drawn spiritual seekers, healers, and curious travelers for decades. Whether it’s a tingling sensation, a deep sense of calm, or just appreciating the beauty around you, each stop has a unique atmosphere.

Regardless of any belief or apprehension, this tour is truly a beautiful way to get out and see different areas surrounding Sedona.

A mix of adventure, history, and a bit of the unknown, this tour is unlike anything else you could do in Sedona. Book your spot now and see if Sedona’s vortexes have something in store for you. But don’t wait too long; this one fills up fast!

11. Visit the beautiful Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

The Grand Canyon gets all the attention, but Arizona is home to even more jaw-dropping landscapes—you just have to know where to look. That’s what made this small-group tour so special. With hotel pickup, lunch, and an expert guide, it was the ultimate way to explore slot canyons, dramatic scenery, and Arizona’s most stunning landscapes up close.

We watched towering red rock formations and ancient volcanoes roll past our window as we drove through Oak Creek Canyon and the Painted Desert. When we arrived at Antelope Canyon, our Navajo guide, Kurt, led us deep into the winding slot canyon, where we snapped some of the best photos of our entire trip!

Along the way, he shared fascinating stories about the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes, along with the area’s rich history and geology. At Horseshoe Bend, we took a short hike to the famous viewpoint, where the Colorado River curved in a perfect horseshoe shape below us.

The final stops at Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell provided even more incredible scenery. Looking down into the massive gorge below the dam, we got a true sense of the Colorado River’s power. Before heading back, we stopped at Cameron Trading Post and browsed beautiful Native American jewelry and pottery, admiring the craftsmanship and history behind each piece.

Don’t miss this tour when you’re in Sedona! Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or just craving adventure beyond the Grand Canyon, this experience is a must.

Related Read: If you need help planning your Sedona trip, make sure you check out our 3-day itinerary here!

12. Visit the chapel of the Holy Cross

Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of Sedona’s most iconic landmarks, not for its size, but for its striking architecture and setting. Built directly into the red rock cliffs, this small Roman Catholic chapel blends so naturally into the landscape that it looks like it grew out of the stone. One of the most memorable views inside is the large rear window, where the red rock landscape frames the interior like a living painting. It’s one of the most photographed moments in all of Sedona.

Visiting hours for the chapel are 9 am to 5 pm, with the last entry allowed at 4:45 pm. You can step inside the chapel for a quiet moment, observe the beautiful backdrop, and snap a few photos. The energy here feels peaceful, whether you’re spiritual or not.

Parking is limited to 45 spaces near the top, but there’s often a shuttle-style golf cart running from lower spots to help make the short climb easier.

Combine this visit to the chapel with a day hike to Bell Rock, as they are a short drive apart (only about 10 minutes).

13. Explore Jerome’s paranormal past

Jerome already has a reputation for being one of Arizona’s most haunted towns, but this tour leans fully into the darker side of its past. This 2-hour ghost adventure isn’t about quick jump scares or watered-down ghost stories, it’s designed for anyone who’s genuinely curious about the paranormal and wants to dig deeper into the town’s most unsettling history.

Over the course of about two hours, you’ll explore some of Jerome’s most infamous locations, including Haskins House, the Old Jerome High School Auditorium, and the Jerome Cemetery. These places are tied to real stories of tragedy, obsession, and unrest, and the guide doesn’t shy away from the details.

What really sets this tour apart is the hands-on approach, everyone is equipped with EMF readers, and each group uses spirit boxes to actively investigate as you move through each site. Optional add-ons like thermal imaging and SLS cameras take things even further for those who want the full ghost-hunting experience.

The small group size keeps things intimate and eerie, making it easier to hear unexplained sounds, notice subtle changes, and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere. This tour is perfect if you want a spooky, interactive night that goes beyond storytelling and into real paranormal investigation!

14. Tee off at one of Sedona’s 3 public golf courses

If you’re a golfer, you simply must experience the views from Sedona’s public golf courses. They’re magical. Think, contrasting red rock with perfectly manicured greens. 

Here are three public-access golf courses in Sedona:

• Canyon Mesa Country Club – A short, 9-hole course that’s great for beginners or if you’re looking for a quick game on a busy day. They also have pickleball and tennis courts here if you’d rather soak in the views with another game. 

• Oakcreek Country Club – Sedona’s first course, constructed in 1968. It’s a well-loved, 18-hole course that’s hosted many tournaments and events like the Sedona Open. End your game with a meal at the Oakcreek Bistro, located conveniently near the 18th hole. 

• Sedona Golf Resort – An 18-hole course with dramatic elevation changes. It’s highly rated amongst golfers, with a good level of technicality. You can’t beat the picture-worthy backdrop view from this course—it is truly incredible. 

15. Visit four local wineries and eat charcuterie

Verde Valley’s wine scene is huge, but with so many options and limited time, you don’t want to waste the day on mediocre stops. Book this small-group wine tour from Sedona and experience the best of the best!

Your booking includes a mix of well-loved vineyards and hidden gems—from Javelina Leap, where you’ll tour the barrel room and sip their legendary sangria, to Cove Mesa, where you’ll sample bold reds that locals say might be the best in Arizona.

Lunch is its own treat—a personal charcuterie board loaded with artisan cheeses, salami, fruit, chocolate, and warm baguette slices. It is the perfect pairing for an afternoon of sipping and relaxing in beautiful vineyard settings.

By the end of the day, you’ll have new favorite wines, plenty of photos, and likely a few bottles to take home.

It’s important to note that tasting fees are not included in this tour, but they offer discounts at many of the stops!

This tour takes all the guesswork out of wine tasting in Verde Valley and replaces it with great wine, great views, and great company. Plus, having a designated driver makes wine tasting safe and fun! This is one tour you don’t want to miss!

Where to Stay in Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is one of those rare places where the landscapes feel almost unreal, and choosing the right place to stay can make the experience even more memorable. Whether you want a luxury retreat, a comfortable mid-range hotel, or a simple, budget-friendly spot, Sedona has it all.

To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Sedona, no matter your style or budget. That way, you can spend less time stressing over where to book and more time soaking up those iconic red rock views.

Luxury – $$$

If you’re looking for a luxury, serene escape, El Portal Sedona Hotel provides just that! This upscale adobe-styled hotel offers rooms with red-rock views, cozy beds, and high-end amenities – just wait until you see the bathrooms. While it has a secluded mountain feel, you’re still within walking distance to restaurants and a short drive from Sedona’s top sights. I can’t forget to mention the spa, year-round outdoor pool, sauna, and fitness center – you’ll never want to leave.

Prices range from $340 to $540 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

The Hilton Vacation Club Sedona Summit is a solid mid-range option surrounded by Sedona’s iconic red rocks. It’s a peaceful base just a short drive from popular trails, restaurants, and art galleries. Suites come with kitchenettes or full kitchens, comfortable living areas, and balconies or patios with scenic views. The resort also features outdoor pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, and BBQ areas—great for unwinding after a day out.

Rates generally range from $150 to $250 USD per night, depending on when you visit. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For a budget-friendly stay in Sedona, The Views Inn Sedona is a great pick. Located in the Village of Oak Creek, it offers clean, spacious rooms with Wi-Fi, comfy beds, and scenic mountain views. Guests can relax in the seasonal outdoor pool or hot tub after exploring nearby Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. Free parking and continental breakfast add extra value, especially compared to Uptown prices. 

Standard rooms start at around $170 USD per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and lock in your stay.

For more options, see all of Sedona’s hotels listed here!

Related Read: Still not sure where to stay? Read our in-depth guide to Sedona’s best areas and hotels here!

Thanks for reading!

Sedona, Arizona, is such a unique getaway. We fell in love with the stunning red rocks, fun outdoor activities, and overall mystic vibe – what more could you ask for? If you follow our list of top things to do, I know you’ll have as much fun in Sedona as we did!

Before you go, check out our other USA blogs! We love putting together guides of our favorite places and experiences to share with fellow travelers. So to help you plan your next adventure, check out these related blogs:

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