Things to Do in Sedona
From sunrise hikes to sunset helicopter rides, Sedona packs an extraordinary range of experiences into one small desert town. Here is everything worth doing.
Outdoor Adventures
Sedona sits at the heart of 1.8 million acres of national forest, with over 100 trails, world-class mountain biking, and rock climbing routes carved into ancient red sandstone.
Hiking
Over 100 trails ranging from easy canyon walks to challenging summit scrambles. Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and West Fork Trail are must-hikes. Most trails are accessible year-round.
Mountain Biking
Sedona is a world-renowned mountain biking destination. The Bell Rock Pathway, Llama Trail, and Slim Shady offer everything from smooth singletrack to technical slickrock riding.
Rock Climbing
Sandstone spires and canyon walls provide routes for all levels. Popular areas include The Mace, Lizard Head, and Sedona Slab. Several local outfitters offer guided climbing and canyoneering.
Horseback Riding
Trail rides through red rock canyons on horseback are a classic Sedona experience. Rides range from gentle hour-long walks to half-day backcountry adventures through Dry Creek and Soldier Pass.
Arts & Culture
Sedona has been an artist colony since the 1960s. Today, over 80 galleries line the streets of Uptown and Tlaquepaque, showcasing Southwestern, contemporary, and Native American art.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Modeled after a traditional Mexican village, Tlaquepaque is Sedona’s premier arts and shopping destination. Cobblestone walkways connect 45+ galleries, boutiques, and restaurants beneath sycamore trees along Oak Creek.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Built into the red rock buttes in 1956, this iconic chapel appears to grow directly from the sandstone. Designed by Marguerite Bruswig Staude, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, it offers stunning views and quiet reflection.
Sedona Art Galleries
Browse world-class galleries featuring Southwestern landscapes, bronze sculpture, Native American jewelry, and contemporary fine art. The Gallery Row along AZ-179 is a great starting point. First Friday art walks happen monthly.
Wellness & Spirituality
Sedona is a globally recognized wellness destination, famous for its energy vortexes, healing practitioners, yoga retreats, and world-class spas surrounded by red rock energy.
Spa Experiences
Sedona’s spas blend luxury treatments with the healing energy of the landscape. Mii Amo at Enchantment Resort consistently ranks among the world’s best destination spas. L’Auberge de Sedona offers creekside treatments.
Yoga & Meditation
Outdoor yoga classes against the backdrop of red rocks are a uniquely Sedona experience. Studios like Sedona Yoga Festival and Aumbase Sedona offer daily classes. Vortex meditation sessions combine energy work with breathwork.
Vortex Meditation
Sedona’s four main energy vortexes — Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon — are believed to emit spiraling energy that enhances meditation, healing, and self-awareness. Guided vortex tours are available.
Tours & Adventures
Let someone else drive while you take in the views. Sedona’s tour operators offer everything from iconic Pink Jeep rides to helicopter flights, hot air balloon rides, and wine tours.
Jeep Tours
Pink Jeep Tours is Sedona’s most iconic tour company, taking visitors on off-road adventures through Broken Arrow, Diamondback Gulch, and Soldier Pass. The Broken Arrow trail is a must-do for thrill seekers.
ATV & Side-by-Side Tours
Drive your own off-road vehicle through Sedona’s backcountry trails. Several operators offer guided ATV and side-by-side tours ranging from beginner-friendly to extreme terrain.
Helicopter Tours
See Sedona’s red rock formations from above on a helicopter tour. Flights range from 12-minute overviews to extended tours covering the entire Sedona landscape and beyond to the Verde Valley.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Float silently over the red rocks at sunrise for a magical Sedona experience. Balloon rides launch at dawn when the air is calm and the light is golden. Most include a champagne toast on landing.
Shopping
Sedona offers a distinctive shopping experience that goes well beyond typical tourist fare. From world-class art galleries to artisan boutiques, these are the places worth exploring.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Sedona’s crown jewel for shopping. Over 45 specialty shops and galleries in a stunning Mexican-inspired village setting. Find one-of-a-kind jewelry, pottery, paintings, and Southwest decor.
Hillside Sedona
An open-air shopping center perched on a hillside with beautiful views. Home to galleries, boutiques, and restaurants including Mariposa. The mix of art, fashion, and dining makes it a great afternoon destination.
Sedona Arts Center
The oldest arts organization in Sedona, featuring a gallery shop with works by local artists. The center also hosts workshops, classes, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Best Times to Visit Sedona
Spring (Mar–May)
Perfect hiking weather with wildflower blooms. Daytime highs of 70–85°F. Peak season — book early.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Hot but uncrowded. Highs near 100°F. Hike early morning, then cool off at Slide Rock or Oak Creek. Monsoon thunderstorms in July–August.
Fall (Sep–Nov)
The best overall season. Comfortable temps, smaller crowds, and spectacular fall foliage in Oak Creek Canyon. West Fork Trail peaks in October.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Uncrowded with cool, crisp days (50–60°F). Occasional snow dusts the red rocks for magical photography. Some trails may be icy at higher elevations.
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