Things To Do In Sedona Arizona
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on
West Fork Trail in Sedona AZ. © Valerie MillettSedona offers far more than spectacular red rock scenery. Visitors can hike through canyons and forests, explore scenic drives, visit historic and archaeological sites, take guided tours, enjoy state parks, browse galleries and shops, play golf or use Sedona as a base for day trips throughout northern Arizona. Whether you have a single day or a longer vacation, this guide will help you choose things to do in Sedona and the surrounding Verde Valley.
- Top Things To Do
- Sightseeing & Tours
- Hiking & Outdoor Recreation
- Scenic Drives & Day Trips
- Historic & Cultural Sites
- More Things To Do
- Visitor Tips
- Sedona FAQ
Top Things To Do In Sedona
Some of Sedona's most memorable experiences cost little or nothing. Scenic overlooks, red rock formations, hiking trails and drives through the surrounding landscape make it possible to enjoy the area on a range of budgets. Guided tours, attractions, restaurants, galleries, golf and other activities provide additional choices for visitors who want a more structured itinerary.
First-time visitors often combine several types of activities rather than focusing on just one. A day might include a morning hike, a scenic drive or sightseeing stop, lunch in town and time exploring galleries, shops or another attraction. For even more ideas, see our 50 Things To Do In Sedona and Sedona Attractions guides.
Sightseeing & Tours In Sedona
Much of Sedona's scenery can be enjoyed directly from roads, overlooks and easily accessible viewpoints. The red rocks of Sedona surround the community, and many well-known formations can be viewed without a strenuous hike. Visitors who want to explore farther can choose from guided sightseeing, Jeep, vortex and other Sedona tours.
Other sightseeing options include hot air balloon rides, visits to archaeological and historic sites, the Verde Canyon Railroad and trips through the Verde Valley. Visitors interested in Sedona's spiritual traditions can learn about local vortex sites, while wine enthusiasts can explore tasting rooms and vineyards in the surrounding region.
Sedona Scenic Drives & Day Trips
Driving is one of the easiest ways to experience the changing landscapes around Sedona. A popular route follows State Route 89A through Oak Creek Canyon, where red rock scenery gradually transitions into a forested canyon along Oak Creek. Other routes include the Red Rock Scenic Byway along State Route 179, Schnebly Hill Road, the Red Rock Sycamore Canyon Loop and the Desert Canyon Loop.
Sedona is also a convenient starting point for longer excursions. Visitors can plan a Grand Canyon day trip or drive to Jerome, a historic former mining community overlooking the Verde Valley. Allow extra travel time during busy periods and check road conditions before using unpaved or backcountry routes.
Hiking & Outdoor Recreation
Hiking is one of the most popular ways to experience Sedona's red rocks, canyons, creeks and forests. Trails range from relatively easy walks to strenuous routes with steep climbs, exposed terrain and significant elevation changes. See our Sedona hiking trails guide for trail ideas and our Sedona hiking map for help planning where to go.
Popular area hikes include the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon and Bell Trail near Beaver Creek. Choose trails appropriate for your experience and conditions, carry adequate water, and check current weather and access information before setting out.
Camping, Picnicking & Fishing
Oak Creek Canyon and the surrounding national forest provide opportunities for camping, picnicking, fishing and relaxing near the water. Developed campgrounds offer convenient access to recreation, while picnic areas provide options for shorter daytime visits. Availability, reservations, seasonal closures and fees can vary, so check current information before your trip.
See our Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon campgrounds guide for area camping options, or explore Sedona picnic areas for places suited to a day outing.
State Parks Near Sedona
Several Arizona state parks provide additional outdoor recreation near Sedona. Slide Rock State Park in Oak Creek Canyon is known for its natural rock water slide and creek setting, while Red Rock State Park offers trails, environmental education and views of the surrounding red rock landscape. Dead Horse Ranch State Park near Cottonwood provides additional opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing and other outdoor activities.
Entrance fees, hours, swimming conditions and seasonal restrictions can change. Check current park information before visiting.
Historic, Archaeological & Cultural Sites
The Verde Valley contains important archaeological and cultural sites that provide a window into the region's long human history. Visitors can explore Montezuma Castle National Monument near Camp Verde, Palatki Heritage Site near Sedona and the V-Bar-V Heritage Site, which is known for its extensive collection of petroglyphs.
Access requirements, hours and reservations can vary by location. Visit our archaeological and heritage sites near Sedona guide for additional places to consider, and respect all barriers and site-protection rules when visiting these culturally significant areas.
More Things To Do In Sedona
Outdoor recreation is only part of the Sedona experience. Visitors can browse galleries and specialty shops, enjoy restaurants with red rock or creekside settings, schedule spa treatments, play golf or explore attractions throughout the Verde Valley. See our guides to shopping in Sedona, Sedona restaurants, resorts and spas and Sedona golf courses for more ideas.
For visitors with additional time, Sedona also works well as a base for exploring northern Arizona. The Grand Canyon, historic communities of the Verde Valley and other regional destinations can be combined with a longer Sedona vacation.
Tips For Planning Things To Do In Sedona
- Start popular hikes and outdoor activities early, especially during busy travel periods.
- Allow extra time for traffic and parking near popular trailheads and attractions.
- Carry drinking water and sun protection even when planning relatively short outdoor activities.
- Check current weather, trail access and road conditions before heading into remote areas.
- Do not assume every attraction, campground or recreation site is open or available without reservations.
- Combine nearby activities to reduce unnecessary driving during your visit.
- Respect posted rules, archaeological sites, private property and sensitive desert environments.
Things To Do In Sedona FAQ
What are the most popular things to do in Sedona?
Popular Sedona activities include hiking, viewing the red rock formations, taking scenic drives, visiting Oak Creek Canyon, exploring state parks, joining sightseeing tours and visiting archaeological and cultural sites.
What can you do in Sedona without hiking?
You do not have to hike to enjoy Sedona. Scenic drives, overlooks, guided tours, galleries, shopping, restaurants, state parks, historic sites and nearby attractions provide many alternatives to hiking.
Are there free things to do in Sedona?
Yes. Some scenic drives, viewpoints and sightseeing opportunities can be enjoyed without an admission charge, although parking, recreation passes or entrance fees may apply at certain locations.
How many days should I spend in Sedona?
The ideal length of a visit depends on your interests, but several days provide more flexibility for combining hiking, sightseeing, scenic drives, dining and nearby attractions without trying to fit everything into a single day.
What are some good day trips from Sedona?
Popular day-trip possibilities include the Grand Canyon, Jerome and destinations throughout the Verde Valley. Travel times and road conditions should be considered when planning longer excursions.
What can families do in Sedona?
Families can choose from scenic drives, easier hikes, parks, sightseeing attractions, wildlife experiences, picnicking and other activities. Select outdoor activities according to children's ages, experience and current weather conditions.
What should I do before hiking or exploring outdoors in Sedona?
Check current weather and trail conditions, carry adequate drinking water, use sun protection and choose an activity appropriate for your experience. Parking and trail access can also change, so check current information before leaving.
Things To Do & Experience In Sedona
