Top 20 Must-See Attractions in Sedona, Arizona for 2025

With a population just north of 10,000, Sedona has a reputation that far outweighs its size. It is, after all, one of the most beautiful small towns in the United States. Plus, there are enough things to do in Sedona that you’ll want to push back your visit to the nearby Grand Canyon to spend extra days enjoying its scenery.

The town’s innumerable hiking trails bring you to stunning vistas and iconic destinations like Cathedral Rock. Forget traditional museums; those visiting Sedona will have museums without walls, with Mother Nature leading the exhibition. The town is surrounded by incredible scenery, punctuated by vortex sites and rock formations that will leave you in awe. Moreover, after a day of exploration, you can unwind at the many local wineries or enjoy a refreshing swim at Slide Rock State Park before watching the iconic desert sunset.

1. Oak Creek Canyon

The Grand Canyon may be the most famous gorge in Arizona, but Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon is ready to surprise. Here, you’ll uncover some of the best views in town, where the red rocks rise from the lush valley below.

The drive from Sedona to Oak Creek Canyon along State Route 89A is a spectacular treat. If you’re coming from Flagstaff, this is the route to take!

Oak Creek Canyon offers a range of activities. You can hike the West Fork Trail or head down to the river to fish for trout or camp under the stars.

On your return trip to Sedona, be sure to stop by Oak Creek Vineyards, which is part of the Verde Valley Wine Trail. The vineyard offers tranquil views and is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surrounding red rock country.

2. The Sedona Trolley

For first-time visitors, taking a trip on the Sedona Trolley is an ideal introduction to the area. The trolley operates two distinct tours, labeled Tour A and Tour B, for your convenience.

Tour A travels through the south side of town, featuring highlights such as the renowned Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, stunning views, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross.

Tour B takes riders to West Sedona and Fay Canyon, offering expert narration along the way. This tour includes a 15-minute photo stop within the beautiful walls of Fay Canyon.

Each tour lasts around an hour, making it an easy and informative way to explore Sedona.

3. Cathedral Rock Trail

In a town filled with perfect spots for photography, Cathedral Rock stands out as the most popular. While you can see the rock formation from various points around Sedona, nothing compares to experiencing it up close in Red Rock State Park.

The Cathedral Rock Trail spans only a mile but promises to get your heart pumping. Starting at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead, the steep incline becomes challenging. Ensure you wear sturdy shoes and avoid hiking shortly after rain.

Take your time to admire the remarkable red rock formations along the way, and don’t rush past the breathtaking views awaiting you at the trail’s saddle, where remarkable vistas extend towards the horizon.

4. Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

Hiking and off-road driving aren’t the only exciting activities in Sedona. The town’s creative side is beautifully showcased in Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, located within a series of charming Spanish colonial buildings.

Arrive early (it opens at 10 am) to explore before the crowds arrive and enjoy unforgettable window shopping while observing master artisans at work.

The village is alive with creativity, and many galleries feature artists in residence, fostering a dynamic art community. Don’t forget to enjoy the delightful restaurants as you continue your exploration.

5. Devil’s Bridge Trail

Some sights are truly worth braving the crowds for, and Devil’s Bridge is one of them. This natural sandstone arch is the largest of its kind in the area, and its striking red rocks rival those found in Utah.

For the best experience, hike to the landmark rather than drive there. Begin your journey by parking at the Mescal Trailhead and then walk approximately a mile to reach the trail. An additional mile will take you directly to the bridge.

Upon arrival, you’ll be rewarded with a remarkable view, perfect for memorable photos. Spend some time enjoying the arch before exploring the nearby Soldier Pass Trail if time allows.

6. Palatki Heritage Site

Sedona’s history stretches far beyond the Wild West. At the Palatki Heritage Site, you can learn about the Sinagua people who inhabited the area from the 12th to 14th centuries.

Located within the Coconino National Forest, you can reach the site by driving along Boynton Pass Road. Here, you’ll discover remarkably well-preserved ruins, as well as nature trails leading to cliff dwellings adorned with unique rock art that dates back over 3000 years.

To deepen your historical exploration, take a short drive to the Honanki Cliff Dwellings, featuring fascinating architectural remnants of this ancient civilization.

7. Chapel of the Holy Cross

Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural influence can be seen across the United States, including Sedona. One must-see destination is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which surprisingly blends nature and architecture beautifully.

This Roman Catholic chapel, designed by Marguerite Brunswid Satude, ascends dramatically among the red rocks, creating a sight to behold. The stained glass windows illuminated by sunlight create a spectacle worth witnessing.

Inside, visitors will find a grand crucifix set against the towering windows, offering spectacular views of Sedona and its breathtaking landscapes.

8. Slide Rock State Park

Located in the Oak Creek Canyon area, Slide Rock State Park is a delightful destination. Here, the flowing creek creates a desert oasis where visitors can enjoy natural water slides and picturesque scenery.

Locals flock to the park to escape the Arizona heat, invigorating themselves with refreshing dips in the creek. It’s an exciting and fun activity, albeit somewhat risky, so be prepared for some minor bumps and bruises!

Additionally, the park’s history reveals how Frank L. Pendley developed a prosperous apple farm in this arid landscape using innovative irrigation techniques.

9. Sedona Arts Center

For over sixty years, Sedona Arts Center has stood at the heart of local artistry and culture, showcasing the city’s stunning landscapes through various artistic mediums. The center boasts the largest collection of local art in the region.

With a revolving door of exhibitions, Sedona artists can continuously evolve their talent and share their work with the public. The annual Sedona Plein Air Festival attracts art enthusiasts from around the world.

Alongside high-caliber exhibitions, the center features numerous classes that invite visitors to engage with the local art scene, including offerings like Painting for All Levels and Mosaic Creations.

10. Robber’s Roost Trail

Sedona offers numerous walking trails, but don’t overlook the Robber’s Roost Trail. This trek is sure to provide lasting memories.

To reach the trailhead, travelers should make their way toward Clarkdale. The trail begins along a rocky path and quickly ascends above the treeline, revealing endless vistas as you advance. Importantly, being away from the popular spots means you’ll likely find solitude along the way.

Amidst the auburn landscape, colorful wildflowers bloom vibrantly, enhancing the scenic beauty. Be sure to keep an eye on the rock cairns guiding your path.

After 1.8 miles, the trail leads you to the “roost,” a circular cave carved into the sandstone, where robbers once hid out.

11. Pink Jeep Tours

While leisurely walking is one way to appreciate Sedona’s intricate landscapes, there are alternatives for those wishing to cover more ground. Pink Jeep Tours offers exciting excursions that allow you to experience Sedona from a different perspective.

With established tours operating since the 1960s, expert guides ensure an unforgettable journey. Choose from various tours tailored to your interests, like the Ancient Ruins guided tour or the thrilling Broken Arrow tour via four-wheel-drive.

Even if some sights overlap with your adventures, the guides enrich your experience with valuable insights to help you see Sedona in a new light.

12. Boynton Canyon Trail

A short drive west of Uptown Sedona leads you to Boynton Canyon, showcasing another remarkable corner of this adventure haven. After a day exploring in a jeep, you’ll be ready to hit one of Northern Arizona’s premier hiking trails.

This 6.1-mile round-trip trail takes you beneath towering sandstone walls and dense pine trees, where lizards and colorful gila monsters bask in the warm sun above.

The initial sections present fantastic photography opportunities, and a short detour to Subway Cave offers exceptional views at the canyon’s edge.

13. Verde Valley Wine Trail

The Verde Valley Wine Trail boasts more than 20 wineries, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to enjoy beautiful scenery and fine wines without hiking boots. Grab a trail passport and explore the vineyards at your leisure.

Some of the top wineries on the route include:

• Page Spring Cellars – Enjoy exquisite wines, walking trails, and stunning views from their scenic patios.
• Burning Tree Cellars – Located in historic Cottonwood, this vineyard offers boutique wines on their spacious outdoor patio.
• Alcantara Vineyard – Visit for breathtaking views of the Verde River and an extensive selection of over 20,000 wines for tasting.

14. Montezuma Castle

An hour south of Sedona, the Montezuma Castle National Monument showcases a community of Sinagua peoples that thrived from the 12th to 15th centuries.

The monument features five stories of structures carved into limestone cliffs, rising dramatically from Beaver Creek about 100 feet above the valley floor.

While exploring inside the castle is no longer allowed, the spectacular scenery, informative signs, and valuable visitor center provide essential context about this fascinating site.

15. Bell Rock Trail

Bell Rock, with its striking bell-shaped formation above Highway 179, is an iconic site that draws attention from all directions. There are various ways to approach the rock, including climbing and mountain biking trails.

The main loop trail encircling Bell Rock is an excellent option for those looking to embark on one of the best hikes in Sedona. Starting at either the South or North lots gives you options, but beginning at the North lot makes the hike more manageable.

Alongside Bell Rock, you’ll find Courthouse Butte, which adds to the list of stunning natural wonders to explore.

16. Airport Mesa Loop

While a sunset over the Pacific Ocean is often claimed to be the best, few can argue about the beauty of a desert sunset. The combination of dry air, expansive valleys, and clear skies creates a stunning display of warm colors as the sun sets.

There are various picturesque locations to catch the sunset in Sedona, but none surpass Airport Mesa, accessible via the Airport Mesa Trail.

This trail meanders for 3.5 miles along the plateau’s edge, revealing breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, leaving you in awe of nature’s beauty.

17. Red Rock Scenic Byway

While the Sedona Trolley offers a wonderful introduction to the town, nothing beats exploring at your own pace. Rent a car to tour Sedona’s scenic byways, including Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road, Red Rock Loop Road, and the famous Red Rock Scenic Byway.

Each byway presents new sights and experiences, enhancing your visit to this stunning area. Key highlights along the Red Rock Scenic Byway include Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the Coconino National Forest, providing ample opportunities to stop and explore.

18. Hot-Air Balloon Ride

While the sunset views at Airport Mesa may be unmatched, experiencing the sunrise from above is a different adventure altogether. Instead of hiking in the dark, consider a hot-air balloon ride to enjoy the sunrise from the sky.

Witness the morning sun transforming the desert landscape while casting long, dramatic shadows across the plateaus.

This serene experience will leave you with spectacular views of Sedona’s striking scenery, where towering red rocks and lush pines capture your attention.

19. Sedona Vortex Sites

Sedona is renowned for its four major vortex sites, each considered to possess powerful energy, uplifting the spirits of those who visit.

While the entire area is believed to be surrounded by vortex energy, the four major locations include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon, each offering unique energies.

To explore multiple vortex sites, consider joining a guided tour that delves into their fascinating history and significance.

20. Mountain Biking

In addition to its fabulous hiking trails, Sedona is also a hotspot for mountain biking enthusiasts. The area offers a diverse range of trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders.

The trails around Bell Rock and Long Canyon provide enjoyable rides for newcomers, while the Aerie to Cockscomb Loop demonstrates stunning intermediate terrain.

For experts, the Hiline Trail presents a thrilling challenge that leads through captivating cliffs and breathtaking landscapes.

Important Information

How to get to Sedona, Arizona?

Sedona possesses its own airport, but it primarily caters to private and chartered flights. Most travelers flying into Arizona should consider landing at Flagstaff or Phoenix.

Flagstaff is a mere 45-minute drive from Sedona, allowing for a scenic journey. Travel south from the airport through Oak Creek to enjoy beautiful views.

Phoenix is over two hours away but offers more flight options, making it a common choice. Each city also provides local tours of Sedona.

Getting Around Sedona

The Sedona Trolley and the Verde Lynx Bus can assist visitors in getting around, including access to Cottonwood and Oak Creek. However, coordinating with a bus schedule can be challenging when packed with outdoor activities.

The best option for exploring Sedona is to rent a car, allowing you to discover the scenic byways and trails at your own pace. Many trailheads are located along less populated dirt roads, away from public transit.

Purchasing a Red Rock Pass provides access to many attractions on your itinerary.

A car is also convenient for day trips, such as visiting the Grand Canyon, which is approximately 100 miles away.

When is the best time to visit Sedona?

The ideal time to visit Sedona is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when temperatures are more temperate, enhancing your outdoor experiences. However, due to their appeal, these months draw larger crowds to popular trails, making it beneficial to seek lesser-known paths.

A winter visit offers a quieter experience, though be prepared for chilly nights. The picturesque soft dusting of snow can make for stunning landscapes.

Where to Stay in Sedona?

• Budget

Finding true budget options in Sedona can be challenging, but the Bell Rock Inn is a solid choice with amenities like a cable TV, refrigerator, two swimming pools, and a fitness center.

• Mid-Range

Experience breathtaking views at the Red Agave Resort, located in the Village of Oak Creek. The hotel features an outdoor pool, firepit, BBQs, and fully equipped rooms.

• Luxury

The L’Auberge De Sedona is perfect for those seeking a luxurious stay among the scenic red rocks, offering quaint cottages, stunning views, an on-site restaurant, and shuttle services.

Sedona provides a wealth of activities and sights, from the majestic Chapel of the Holy Cross to the breathtaking landscapes of Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. Whether seeking hiking adventures or an introduction to historical insights, these attractions should not be missed, making Sedona a destination worth returning to.