Sedona Travel Guide
/I wasn’t prepared for how much I’d fall in love with this small Arizonian city and its breathtaking red-rock landscape. Travelers from across the world visit Sedona to soak up spiritual energy from its vortexes, hike through the red rocks, and unwind in relaxing spa hotels. I came here with my mom to celebrate her 50th birthday, and it was the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and good food.
If you’re planning a getaway to Sedona, here’s a list of things you should absolutely not miss during your stay!
Enjoy Sedona’s Incredible Hiking Trails
Sedona is known for its amazing hiking trails with postcard worthy views. There are literally hundreds of trails in the area, so there’s no shortage to choose from! My favorites are: Devil’s Bridge, Airport Mesa, Soldier Pass and the Cathedral Rock Trails. You can also download the All Trails app or visit the The Hike House where they can help you pick and prepare for a hike that suits your needs.
Grand Canyon
Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon! While I’m sure most of us have seen photos or heard stories, experiencing the beauty and vastness of the Grand Canyon is a bucket list item. It’s only a short few hour drive from Sedona, making it the perfect day trip. While the canyon is open 24 hours a day, I would recommend going earlier in the morning to beat some of the heat…
Eat & Spa at Enchantment Resort
Whether you’re looking for a cozy escape, family vacation, or a huge celebration, this resort is a must stay! Each room is lavishly decorated and includes a private deck with a closeup view of Sedona’s stunning red rocks, and the resort offers guided hikes and wellness activities. Most importantly, the pool at Enchantment Resort is actually one of my favorites in the world!
The resort is definitely on the pricier side in Sedona, so even if you don’t end up staying here, I definitely recommend stopping by to eat at one of their restaurants: Che Ah Chi or Tii Gavo. Che Ah Chi offers incredible American cuisine with Native Amerian influences. I especially loved their brunch, and y’all know I had to try the Sonoran Burrito and the Southwest Eggs Benedict. You can also enjoy an evening snack outside by the fire pit while taking in the incredible views at Tii Gavo. Tii Gavo offers a more diverse range of cuisines with a southwest flair, like Arizona Nachos. Either way, you can’t go wrong!
Verde Valley Wine Tour
When it comes to wine country, Arizona isn't usually the first place to come to mind (or at all for that matter), but boy was I wrong! After a few days spent hiking through Sedona, we definitely needed a day to explore the vineyards in the area. Escape the Arizona heat by enjoying one (or many) glasses of unique and delicious wines! Most of the vineyards in Verde Valley are in Cottonwood, which is just a short 30 minute drive from Sedona. Oak Creek Vineyards and Javelina Leap Vineyard were two of my favorites in the area.
Take a Pink Jeep Tour
When you get to Sedona, you’ll see little pink jeeps driving all around town. And of course, if I see a pink jeep, you just know I’m finding a way to take a ride in it. And what better way to explore Sedona’s backcountry than on a pink jeep! We signed up for the Broken Arrow tour, through the aptly named Pink Jeep Tour company. Honestly, this might have been my favorite memory from the trip. We got to be on top of the red rocks during sunset and it was definitely an adventure — we were literally (but safely) hanging off the cliff at one point! They also have less strenuous tours available, if that’s more your vibe.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
This shopping district was named after a Mexican village, Tlaquepaque. The name translates to “the best of everything,” which is definitely fitting. The Village is home to 50 specialty stores and is an artist’s haven. Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful things, this is a must stop on your next Sedona vacation. We spent the morning walking through the galleries and shops — and of course, we stumbled upon the cutest Indian cafe called The Chai Spot! Highly recommend stopping by Tlaquepaque Village and The Chai Spot if you’re in the area!
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Located atop the red rocks in Sedona, the chapel has floor to ceiling windows, giving churchgoers and visitors the most stunning view. While we aren’t Christian, there was something so breathtaking and serene about sitting in this chapel. The chapel is open 9-5pm 7 days a week, holding weekly religious ceremonies and wedding nuptials.
Enjoy a Sedona Sunset
There’s something about a sunset in the desert, especially when it’s surrounded by these mesmerizing red rock canyons. I highly recommend finding a great spot to view the sunset every evening. It was such a peaceful way to wrap up the day before we went to dinner every night!
Be sure to let me know your fave recs from this list! Wishing you a happy Sedona vacation! xox
