Sedona is a desert town in the center of Arizona that’s world-famous for its surreal red rock formations. The best way to explore the terrain is by hiking or taking it all in via a drive in an SUV. This is the ideal destination for travelers who love the outdoors and all the activities you can think of, such as hiking and mountain biking. The town of Sedona has a pink glow to it along with a hippie and spiritual community.
Sedona has a couple of public buses operating, however the best way to get around and explore all you wish to see around the area is with a rental car. It’s a good idea to book an SUV or a vehicle with four-wheel drive to explore the desert and sandy roads of Sedona and its beautiful surroundings. Use our tips to figure out what to see in and around Sedona.
- 1. Cathedral Rock
- 2. Devil’s Bridge Trail
- 3. Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
- 4. Montezuma Castle National Monument
- 5. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
- 6. Chapel of the Holy Cross
- 7. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
- 8. Walnut Canyon National Monument
- 9. Dead Horse Ranch State Park
- 10. Bell Rock
- Best Places to Eat & Drink in Sedona
Must-see attractions in Sedona
1. Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock is a natural red rock butte that’s part of Sedona’s skyline. There’s a beautiful hike ascending to the gaps between the rock formations. It’s a little bit of a steep climb but the breathtaking views along the way and possibly a sunset to enjoy from the top is worth it. If you’re there for the sunset, remember a flashlight to get back down.
Address: 500 Back O Beyond Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
Entry fees: More information
Hours: Open 24/7
Time required to see the attraction: The hike can take 1-2 hours
2. Devil’s Bridge Trail
The Devil’s Bridge is known as the largest natural sandstone arch around Sedona. It’s an easy hike to the arch and you can take some great photos with your friends and family along the way. Get ready for some amazing views and be prepared for the hot weather with plenty of water.
Address: Chuck Wagon Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336
Entry fees: More information
Hours: Open 24/7
Time required to see the attraction: The hike takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
3. Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
Take in the beautiful red rock gorge of Oak Creek Canyon. There’s a scenic drive between Flagstaff and Sedona down the length of the canyon where you can witness the magnificent views. It’s also possible to spend some time enjoying the outdoors, walking between sheer rock walls to see streams and waterfalls along the way.
Address: N State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Entry fees: Free
Hours: Open 24/7
Time required to see the attraction: You can spend as much time as you want along this scenic route.
4. Montezuma Castle National Monument
At Montezuma Castle National Monument you can see well-preserved dwellings built and used by the Sinagua people, dating to between AD 1100 and 1425. This unique structure is built into the rock walls and is basically a prehistoric “apartment complex” more than a castle. It’s a great experience for visitors of all ages.
Address: 2800 Montezuma Castle Road, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: You can spend as much time here as you want; the monument is right at the entrance. There is a scenic loop around the back of the facade that can take around an hour.
5. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
The Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a landmark for artisanal shops and galleries located in the heart of Sedona. It’s an outdoor market resembling a traditional Mexican village. The Arts & Shopping village makes for a fun place to walk around. It can be a great spot to look for artisanal souvenirs, as well as get a bite to eat.
Address: 336 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 2 hours
6. Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a unique attraction you won’t want to miss because it’s a chapel that happens to be built into the red rock of Sedona. The chapel offers some spectacular views, especially if you visit around sunset. The stunning architecture nestled among the rocks retains a certain mystery.
Address: 780 Chapel Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1-2 hours
7. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
This is the place to go if you want to see a preserved meteor impact site in the middle of Arizona. It’s not too far from Sedona and could be worth a field trip out of town. The landmark not only allows visitors to walk along the rim of the crater but also has a Space Museum and hands-on discovery center that kids will love.
Address: Interstate 40, Exit 233, Winslow, AZ 86047
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: Allow yourself around 2 hours to visit the museum and crater rim.
8. Walnut Canyon National Monument
Near Flagstaff, there’s a canyon where you can see cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people from around 1100 to 1250 AD. There’s a loop trail that descends into the canyon where these people built. Prepare for lots of stairs, but the heart-pounding views and historical ruins are worth seeing.
Address: 3 Walnut Canyon Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: You can spend as much time here as you want. Expect to stay 1 to 2 hours if you choose to descend into the caves.
9. Dead Horse Ranch State Park
This park has three lagoons and is full of different hiking trails, picnic areas and campgrounds. This is a nice place to visit to enjoy a peaceful walk, or even canoe or fish in the lagoons. This area is dog friendly, so be sure to bring your four-legged friend along.
Address: 675 Dead Horse Ranch Road, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1-2 hours
10. Bell Rock
This is another one of the beautiful red rock butte formations you’ll find near Sedona. There are various trails around the area, with places to hike, climb or just take in the views. Bell Rock is also known for its vortex and has become a popular spot for meditation and serenity.
Address: Bell Rock Access Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336
Entry fees: More information
Hours: Open 24/7
Time required to see the attraction: From 30 minutes to 1 hour
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Sedona
The top traditional dishes in the area of Sedona are diverse. You’ll find that the most popular foods in town includes smoked enchiladas, woodfired pizzas, empanadas and even a unique rattlesnake sausage.
Elote Café: This is the place to enjoy some gourmet Mexican food at an upscale spot located inside a hotel. It’s in the heart of Sedona and is also the place to order some tequila.
Shorebird: Go to Shorebird for brunch or dinner with spectacular red rock views. Here you’ll find fresh seafood, and the restaurant is great for a special occasion.
Colt Grill: If you’re looking for something a little more casual, Colt Grill is a great choice in Sedona. Their specialty is smoked meats with barbecue sauce, of course.
Sedona Beer Company: This spot offers a variety of beer options along with wine, cider and various dishes to share. It’s the perfect place to hang out with friends for a casual afternoon.
