Best Attractions In Sedona Arizona
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on
Sedona attractions range from dramatic red rock landmarks and scenic hiking areas to historic sites, museums, art galleries and family-friendly destinations. Visitors can explore iconic places such as Chapel of the Holy Cross and Slide Rock State Park, ride through Verde Canyon, discover ancient cultural sites and learn about Sedona’s pioneer and artistic heritage. Many of the area’s best attractions are within Sedona or a short drive through the Verde Valley.
- Top Sedona Attractions
- Scenic & Outdoor Attractions
- Historic & Cultural Attractions
- Arts & Museums
- Attractions Near Sedona
- Visitor Tips
- FAQ
Top Sedona Attractions
Chapel Of The Holy Cross
Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of Sedona’s best-known architectural and spiritual landmarks. Completed in 1956 and built into a red rock formation overlooking the Verde Valley, the chapel attracts visitors for its design, views and quiet atmosphere. Current published hours are generally 9 AM to 5 PM daily, with the last entry shortly before closing. Because worship schedules and holiday hours can change, check the chapel’s current information before visiting.
Verde Canyon Railroad
Verde Canyon Railroad offers a scenic train journey through the remote Verde Canyon from Clarkdale. Passengers travel through rugged canyon country along the Verde River, with views of cliffs, wildlife habitat and historic railroad scenery that cannot be reached easily by road. The railroad operates scheduled excursions throughout the year, so check current departure dates and ticket availability before traveling.
Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park is one of Oak Creek Canyon’s most popular recreation areas. The park is best known for its natural water slide formed by the smooth sandstone bed of Oak Creek, along with swimming areas, short trails and the historic Pendley Homestead apple orchard. Conditions, parking availability and water safety can vary, so visitors should check current park information before arriving.
Scenic & Outdoor Attractions
Boynton Canyon
Boynton Canyon Trail leads through one of Sedona’s most scenic red rock canyons, surrounded by cliffs, desert vegetation and forested slopes. The area is also widely associated with Sedona’s vortex tradition. Hikers should prepare for changing weather, carry adequate water and check current trail and parking conditions before starting.
Red Rock State Park
Red Rock State Park protects 286 acres along Oak Creek and provides trails, wildlife viewing, educational programs and panoramic views of Sedona’s red rock landscape. The park is especially useful for visitors interested in nature, geology and quieter walking trails rather than strenuous backcountry hiking.
Historic & Cultural Attractions
Palatki Heritage Site
Palatki Heritage Site, northwest of Sedona, preserves one of the largest cliff dwellings in Red Rock Country along with pictographs and petroglyphs created by cultures that used the area over many centuries. Timed reservations are currently used to manage visitation, and a Red Rock Pass or qualifying federal recreation pass is required for vehicles. Road and operating conditions can change, so check current information before making the drive.
Arts & Museums In Sedona
Sedona Arts Center
Sedona Arts Center has supported visual arts and arts education in Red Rock Country for more than six decades. Its Uptown Sedona campus includes galleries, exhibitions, workshops and educational programs featuring regional and national artists. Current exhibits, gallery hours and workshops vary throughout the year.
Sedona Heritage Museum
The Sedona Heritage Museum is located at Jordan Historical Park in Uptown Sedona and tells the story of the area’s early settlers, ranching, orchards, motion-picture history and the people who shaped the community. Historic structures and exhibits on the museum grounds preserve important parts of Sedona’s pioneer and cultural history.
Attractions Near Sedona
Jerome Arizona
Jerome is a historic mining town built into the slopes of Cleopatra Hill southwest of Sedona. Today the former copper-mining community is known for historic buildings, museums, galleries, restaurants and expansive views across the Verde Valley. The drive from Sedona makes Jerome a popular half-day or full-day side trip.
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Montezuma Castle National Monument preserves one of the Verde Valley’s best-known prehistoric cliff dwellings. Located near Camp Verde, the monument is an easy side trip from Sedona and includes a paved visitor trail, museum exhibits and views of the remarkably preserved dwelling above Beaver Creek.
Tips For Visiting Sedona Attractions
- Visit popular attractions early in the day when parking is generally easier.
- Check current hours, reservations and fees before traveling because operating schedules can change.
- Allow extra driving time during weekends, holidays and peak spring and fall travel periods.
- Carry water and sun protection when visiting outdoor attractions and trails.
- Use established trails and respect archaeological, historic and cultural resources.
- Check weather, fire restrictions and road conditions before visiting remote forest sites.
- Consider grouping nearby attractions together to reduce driving and parking delays.
Sedona Attractions FAQ
What are the most popular attractions in Sedona?
Popular attractions include Chapel of the Holy Cross, Slide Rock State Park, Sedona’s red rock hiking areas, scenic viewpoints, Sedona Arts Center and nearby Verde Canyon Railroad.
What attractions should first-time visitors see in Sedona?
First-time visitors often choose Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock viewpoints, Oak Creek Canyon, Slide Rock State Park and one or more scenic hiking trails.
Are there historic attractions in Sedona?
Yes. Sedona Heritage Museum preserves local pioneer history, while nearby Palatki Heritage Site and Montezuma Castle National Monument provide opportunities to learn about much earlier cultures of the Verde Valley and Red Rock Country.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Sedona?
Yes. Families often enjoy Slide Rock State Park, scenic drives, easy hiking trails, Sedona Heritage Museum and attractions throughout the Verde Valley.
Are there indoor attractions in Sedona?
Yes. Sedona Arts Center, Sedona Heritage Museum, galleries, shops and other cultural attractions provide indoor options when weather limits outdoor activities.
What attractions are near Sedona?
Popular attractions within driving distance include Verde Canyon Railroad in Clarkdale, Jerome, Montezuma Castle National Monument, Palatki Heritage Site and other Verde Valley destinations.
Do Sedona attractions require reservations?
Some do. Certain tours, heritage sites, train excursions and special programs use reservations or timed entry. Check current requirements before traveling.
What is the best time of year to visit Sedona attractions?
Spring and fall generally offer comfortable weather for sightseeing, while summer can be hot at lower elevations and winter may bring cold temperatures or occasional snow. Indoor and cultural attractions can be visited year-round.
Is parking difficult at Sedona attractions?
Parking can be limited at popular sites, particularly on weekends and during peak travel periods. Arriving early and checking current transportation or shuttle information can make visiting easier.
For more attractions in Sedona, see our leftside navigation and visit "Things to See & Do In Sedona".
Attractions In The Sedona Area
