One Day in Sedona – An Awesome Arizona Day Trip
When one thinks of Sedona, Arizona, images of breathtaking red rock formations and stunning desert landscapes come to mind. It is one of the most beautiful places in the Southwest. Even one day in Sedona can be an awesome way to experience this region. In this post, we’ll give you ideas to plan your perfect Sedona day trip.
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Overview of Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a stunning desert oasis located in the red rock country of Northern Arizona. The beautiful red rocks and lush vegetation make it one of the most picturesque places in the Southwest. It’s also renowned for its numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and camping. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, galleries, and other attractions to explore while you’re there.
In addition to its natural beauty, Sedona has a rich history and culture. It was first settled by Native Americans over 700 years ago and later became an important stopover point along the Old Spanish Trail connecting Santa Fe with Los Angeles. Today, it’s well known for its arts scene, with many galleries displaying local artists’ works.
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Why Visit Sedona?
Sedona is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape to a stunningly beautiful place. Its unique landscapes and abundant outdoor activities make it an ideal spot for adventure or relaxation, while its history and cultural offerings mean plenty to explore.
Whether it’s hiking through the red rock formations, exploring historical sites, taking in art galleries, or simply relaxing among nature, Sedona has something for everyone. While you can easily spend many days in this beautiful location, even one day in Sedona will leave you refreshed and inspired!
It is one of the most breathtaking places in the American Southwest. We enjoyed the incredible scenery while hiking and driving through the area. But come check it out for yourself. It deserves a trip on your travel bucket list.
The Best Way to Spend One Day in Sedona
The best way to spend one day in Sedona is by exploring the outdoors! Start by going for a hike or bike ride and take in the stunning scenery. You will find plenty of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, offering incredible views of the red rock formations and desert landscapes.
After getting a dose of nature, you can check out some charming local shops and galleries. Then, grab some lunch at one of the many delicious restaurants in town before heading to one of Sedona’s most popular attractions – the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Built into a rock formation, this stunning chapel offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Finally, end your day with an unforgettable sunset at one of Sedona’s best lookouts for a genuinely perfect Arizona day trip! There are endless ways to explore and enjoy this magical place, even if you only have one day to visit.
Sample One Day Itinerary For Sedona
| Time of Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Plan a morning hike. Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge Trail are popular options. |
| Midday | Lunch & Tlaquepaque stroll |
| Afternoon | Take in some culture by visiting the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Alternatively, visit a local museum such as the Sedona Heritage Museum or the Sedona Arts Center. |
| Evening | Sunset at a scenic viewpoint → Dinner at a local favorite |
The Best Things To Do During One Day in Sedona
There are many things you can do during a single-day visit to Sedona. We’ll highlight over 20 ideas for you. It doesn’t matter if you prefer the outdoors, shopping, or soaking up the desert culture. Explore our list of the best Sedona things to do during your day in the city and put a checkmark on a few to plan your perfect day in Sedona.
Outdoor Activities in Sedona
1. Go Hiking
Hike among one of Sedona’s many trails, such as Soldier Pass and Bear Mountain trails – make sure you bring plenty of water and watch out for rattlesnakes!
Sedona is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. With its mesmerizing red rocks, lush vegetation, and miles of trails, visitors can enjoy nature’s beauty.
The most popular hiking trails include Cathedral Rock. This moderate hike is about 1.5 miles round trip and is a great spot if you enjoy rock scrambling.
The very popular Devil’s Bridge Trail is an easy two-mile round-trip hike. Located in the Coconino National Forest, this is the largest sandstone Arch in Arizona and is quite spectacular. It culminates at the famous rocky bridge, where you’ll want to ask someone to take your photo to remember your walk onto the natural bridge. This was one of the most memorable experiences we had while in Sedona.
Both of these hiking trails offer great views of Sedona’s stunning red rock formations and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenery at Crescent Moon Picnic Site, which sits beneath the towering Cathedral Rock.
Different hiking trails have varying difficulty levels, so plan your hiking adventure accordingly. Also, always bring plenty of water and wear proper hiking gear before embarking on your hiking journey.
Tip: Hop aboard the Sedona Shuttle to avoid the surprise of not finding a parking spot at the trailhead. You can leave your car in one of the designated park-and-ride parking lots that have ample parking spaces as compared to the trailhead lots.
Listen to our podcast episode about hiking in Sedona
https://sedona.org/, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
2. Experience a Vortex Site
Vortex sites are areas located around Sedona with powerful spiritual energies and vortexes. People visit vortex sites to experience the energetic power believed to bring peace and balance to their lives. These vortex sites have been a part of Native American culture for centuries, and each vortex site has its own unique energy frequency.
Popular vortex sites include Bell Rock, Airport Mesa Vortex, and Boynton Canyon Vortex. Visitors can experience the vortex sites through meditation or hiking while absorbing the positive energy that these sites have to offer. Whether looking for spiritual healing, personal growth, or simply a connection with nature, vortex sites offer something unique to each visitor!
Check Availability for Sedona Vortex Tour by Jeep
Alan Stark from Goodyear, AZ, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
3. Rent an ATV or Jeep
Rent an ATV or jeep and explore one of the off-road trails throughout the region – make sure to respect any private property signs you may come across.
Whether you’re an avid off-roader or just looking for some outdoor adventure, ATV and jeep rentals in Sedona are the perfect way to explore the area. With jeeps and ATVs available from various local vendors, tourists can easily access trails that traverse the gorgeous landscapes of Sedona.
From desert trails to mountain roads, jeep and ATV rentals in Sedona provide a great way to explore all the natural beauty this area offers. Visitors can also find jeeps and ATVs equipped with GPS navigation systems. Get off-road for a memorable experience while exploring the great outdoors.
Try Barlow Jeep Rentals in Sedona
4. Book a Jeep Tour
Take a Broken Arrow or Scenic Rim Jeep Tour with Pink Jeep Tours.
Jeep tours in Sedona are a top thing to do for anyone visiting the area. Leave the driving to your jeep tour guide, who’ll take you on an exciting ride around some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Sedona. As you drive deeper into the canyon, you will come across stunning views and incredible rock formations not visible from the main roads.
The jeep tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly – offering fascinating facts about Sedona’s history and geology and tips on where to find the best photo opportunities.
The Pink Jeep Tour Company is among the most popular in Sedona.
Check availability for Pink Jeep Tours
5. Enjoy a Stroll in a Sedona City Park
Take a leisurely stroll through Sedona’s city parks for beautiful views and peaceful moments. Parks such as Crescent Moon Park and Little Horse Trailhead offer incredible views of the surrounding red rock formations while providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
These well-maintained trails are perfect for a relaxing morning or late afternoon walk. From observing wildlife to breathtaking sunsets, city parks in Sedona offer something special for every visitor.
Slide Rock State Park (Don Graham from Redlands, CA, USA – God bless it!, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
6. Visit Nearby Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park is located just 8 miles north of town. This state park offers breathtaking views of the lush Oak Creek Canyon and the beautiful red rock formations of Sedona.
This park is popular among families enjoying its natural beauty and historical sightseeing. Slide Rock is a natural water slide. Visitors can dip in the natural swimming pools, explore the many trails and hiking paths, or take a jeep tour to access some of the stunning overlooks. Plenty of picnic areas and spots for fly fishing make Slide Rock State Park an ideal place for a day trip adventure.
7. Take Photos at a Stunning Overlook
Sedona’s overlooks are some of the best places to snap a picture. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a professional, these stunning locations will provide the perfect backdrop for your photographs.
The most popular overlooks include Airport Mesa and Cathedral Rock. These two overlooks are located high above downtown Sedona and provide spectacular views of the red rock formations below.
When you get out into the beautiful landscape, you’ll see unique angles and perspectives that beckon you to press the shutter button on your camera. Whether looking for a panoramic view or an up-close look at the red rocks, landscape photography buffs have a fantastic desert world for a great photography experience.
Photography Tip: The best single lens to bring is typically a wide-angle zoom in the 16–35mm (full-frame equivalent) range.
Shop Wide Angle Zoom Lenses on Amazon
8. Experience an Unforgettable Sunrise or Sunset
Sedona is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views – and for good reason. Whether atop a towering red rock or from any of the city’s overlooks, sunrise or sunset in Sedona is an unforgettable experience.
Painted with rosy pinks and deep oranges, sunrise silhouettes the stunning red rocks that line the city’s horizon. As the sun sets, a blanket of deep blues and purples cast the city in an enchanting ambiance.
Whether sunrise or sunset is your preference, Sedona offers plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty – creating an unforgettable experience that will last long after you leave.
A top spot for watching the sunset is at Airport Mesa Viewpoint. You can see an inspiring 360-degree panorama and witness changing colors on the rocky landscape while the sun dips below the mountains in Sedona.
❤️ Top Tip For Couples:
Plan at least one sunrise or sunset experience together. The red rock formations glow with incredible colors at these times, creating a romantic and unforgettable backdrop. Popular spots include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, and Red Rock Crossing. To make it extra special, pack a light picnic or a thermos of coffee/wine and enjoy the moment just the two of you—it’s one of Sedona’s most magical experiences and perfect for couples.
Palatki Panorama (Mfield, Matthew Field, http://www.photography.mattfield.com, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
9. Visit the Palatki Historic Site
The Palatki Historic Site, nestled in the stunning red rock landscape of Sedona, offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient world of the Sinagua people. Visitors spending a day in Sedona can immerse themselves in the rich history and striking beauty of this site, where they will find well-preserved cliff dwellings and impressive rock art panels.
The short trails leading to these historic features provide an easy hike, suitable for most visitors, and are accompanied by guided tours that enrich the experience with insightful information about the region’s past. A visit to Palatki promises a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable stop in Sedona.
Palatki Heritage Site Tours are available through Recreation.gov.
Indoor Activities
10. Relax with a Spa Day
Sedona has plenty of places to treat yourself to a massage or facial. Enjoy a luxurious and calming atmosphere with a spa day in Sedona. Indulge yourself with a massage, facials, body wraps, or scrubs. Massage therapy will help you relax and recharge after a long day of hiking or sightseeing.
Shopping in Sedona
11. Go shopping for souvenirs on historic Main Street
Main Street in Sedona is the perfect place to go shopping for souvenirs. This historic location has a wide variety of stores and merchants selling items from jewelry to pottery and everything in between.
Many local artisans specialize in creating beautiful jewelry, artwork, and other gifts that capture the Sedona spirit. A large selection of Indian art and jewelry, and a variety of unique handmade items are also available.
In Sedona, you can find something unique to take home – an item to be remembered for years. Spending some time at Downtown Main Street Sedona Arizona is a great place to find Sedona treasures.
12. Explore Uptown Sedona
Stroll through Uptown Sedona and take in all this vibrant area has to offer – from one-of-a-kind shops to award-winning restaurants and more!
Uptown Sedona is the perfect place for a stroll. Uptown Sedona has everything from unique boutiques to art galleries, jewelry stores, souvenir shops, and more! Enjoy browsing the wide selection of items or pick up the perfect gift for a loved one.
After browsing Uptown Sedona’s many shops, treat yourself to an award-winning meal at one of Uptown Sedona’s dining establishments. Uptown Sedona has everything from cozy cafes to fine dining and everything in between!
13. Meet a Local Artisan
Strike up a conversation with one of the local artisans at one of Sedona’s markets for some unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else!
From handmade jewelry to locally made pottery, Sedona is the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs crafted by the hands of local artisans. Whether you’re looking for something special for yourself or a loved one, Sedona offers many opportunities to meet and support these local makers.
Visit Sedona’s many outdoor markets and pop-up shops, where you can find a variety of handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, clothing, and more. Meet the Sedona artisans behind these one-of-a-kind items and hear their stories. Take away a piece of Sedona with you as a reminder of your fantastic trip!
14. Browse the High-End Shops at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Don’t miss Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Designed as a traditional Mexican village, it is home to some of the best shops in one convenient location. You’ll find artisan stores, art galleries, and jewelry shops. It’s a great place to find a one-of-a-kind keepsake from your visit to Sedona.
Watch Our Visit to Tlaquepaque Village on YouTube
Food and Drink
15. Taste the Local Cuisine
Enjoy some local cuisine – options include everything from Mexican eats to classic American steakhouse fare!
Sedona is the perfect place to sample local flavors, with varied options ranging from tasty Mexican dishes to award-winning American steakhouse fare. If you’re looking for classic local flavors, plenty of local restaurants specialize in traditional Mexican cuisine – including tacos and burritos, tamales, enchiladas, and more. For vegetarian options, local restaurants offer a range of salads, sandwiches, and even vegan dishes.
For an unforgettable culinary experience, Sedona boasts several award-winning restaurants that serve up some of the most delicious local cuisines in the area.
From upscale steakhouses to casual bistros and outdoor grills, Sedona has many great spots for eating that offer something for every palate.
For casual dining, we highly recommend Tortas de Fuego. This unassuming eatery offers high-quality Mexican food at very reasonable prices. The menu also provides terrific vegetarian options.
16. Visit a Sedona Vineyard
Sedona is home to some of the most beautiful vineyards, perfect for a day trip or outing. Enjoy breathtaking views while tasting Sedona’s finest wines–from smooth cabernet sauvignon and rich merlots to crisp whites such as chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.
Sedona’s vineyards offer a variety of wine tastings and tours that will leave your taste buds wanting more! Unwind in Sedona’s beautiful weather, sip some delectable white or red wines, and enjoy the fantastic views. Sedona is the perfect place to experience nature while discovering new flavors!
Check availability for Private Wine Tour in Sedona
Culture
17. Make a Pilgrimage to a Sacred Site
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a stunning Sedona landmark atop a rock outcropping with panoramic views of Sedona’s famous red rocks. Built in 1956, this modern-day Roman Catholic chapel is designed to look like it was carved out of one of Sedona’s red rocks. Inside the chapel, you can pause and reflect on Sedona’s natural beauty or take a moment to appreciate the architecture and design of the building itself.
For those who want to go even further back in Sedona’s history, many ancient cliff dwellings offer insight into Sedona’s past. These dwellings are a reminder of Sedona’s past inhabitants, the Sinagua people, who farmed in Sedona nearly 800 years ago.
Visiting Sedona’s ancient and modern sacred sites is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years.
Watch our Visit to Chapel of the Holy Cross YouTube Video
18. Take in Sedona’s Art Scene
Visit one of Sedona’s art galleries to admire works by local artists and photographers.
From Sedona’s central downtown plaza, Gallery Row is a short walk away with several galleries featuring paintings and sculptures from talented local artists. Enjoy discovering Sedona’s vibrant art scene by strolling among the various galleries. Sedona’s art galleries feature traditional and contemporary works of art in various styles and media.
Take your time to admire the works of Sedona’s painters, sculptors, photographers, and other artisans. You’re sure to find something that speaks to you and make your visit one to remember! Be on the lookout for special events like artist signings or live demonstrations.
Sedona is home to some of the best art galleries in Arizona and a great place for an artistic getaway. And when inspiration strikes, you can even stop by one of Sedona’s many art supply stores to pick up some supplies to create your masterpiece!
19. Visit a Local Museum
Sedona offers several museums, including the Sedona Heritage Museum and the Sedona Arts Center.
The Sedona Heritage Museum is the place to go if you want an authentic taste of the area’s wild West history. This museum features artifacts from local pioneers, miners, and ranchers that give visitors an insight into life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum also offers guided tours, as well as educational workshops and classes.
The Sedona Arts Center is another excellent place to visit for art lovers. This center offers exhibitions from local and international artists, workshops, lectures, and live performances.
20. Visit one of Sedona’s Spiritual Centers
Visiting spiritual centers in Sedona offers a unique and transformative experience. Known for its powerful energy vortexes, Sedona attracts seekers of spiritual enlightenment from all over the world.
A popular spiritual destination is the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, where visitors can walk the pathways surrounded by nature, engage in quiet contemplation, and participate in Buddhist practices. These centers not only offer spiritual solace but also an opportunity to connect deeply with nature and oneself.
21. Visit Montezuma Castle National Monument
Are you looking for a place to explore filled with history and natural beauty? Montezuma Castle National Monument in Arizona offers a fantastic opportunity for visitors of all ages. Located about 25 miles south of Sedona, Montezuma Castle preserves the remains of ancient Sinagua Indian cliff dwellings, which date back to 1100 AD. It was first made a national monument in 1906 and is now protected by the National Park Service.
At Montezuma Castle, you can explore its massive limestone cliffs and be amazed at the remarkable architecture of its five-story, 20-room structure. Interpretive signs throughout the site provide insight into how these ancient people lived and worked centuries ago. Montezuma Well is also located at Montezuma Castle and was a crucial water source for the Sinagua Indians who inhabited this area over 1,000 years ago. This natural limestone sinkhole is home to various wildlife species, including birds and reptiles.
22. Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway
Driving the Red Rock Scenic Byway in Sedona is a breathtaking experience that offers visitors a stunning introduction to the region’s iconic red rock formations. This short yet immersive drive, often called a “museum without walls,” spans approximately 7.5 miles, winding through some of Arizona’s most picturesque landscapes.
Along the way, travelers are treated to panoramic views of towering rock formations such as Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock, uniquely sculpted by nature over millennia. For a visitor with only one day to explore Sedona, this scenic drive provides an efficient yet comprehensive glimpse into the area’s natural beauty, allowing them to soak in the vibrant colors and awe-inspiring geology without embarking on extensive hikes.
The byway is dotted with several pull-offs and trailheads, inviting travelers to stop, take photos, or even venture on short nature walks to further connect with the majestic surroundings. This combination of convenience and spectacular scenery makes the Red Rock Scenic Byway a perfect choice for day-trippers looking to maximize their Sedona experience.
Tours in Sedona
Booking a tour in Sedona is one of the most memorable experiences you can have while traveling. With so many Sedona tours available, you’ll find something that suits your needs and interests. Whether you’re looking for a guided jeep tour to explore the area, a helicopter ride for breathtaking views of Sedona from above, or even a hot air balloon ride to take in the beauty of Sedona from high in the sky, there’s something for everyone.
FAQs
What’s the Best Way to Get to Sedona?
Sedona, Arizona, is a stunning desert destination about 2 hours north of Phoenix, the state capital. The closest major airport to Sedona is the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), which has flights from Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, and Los Angeles. If you’re flying in, it’s about a 40-minute drive from the airport to Sedona. It’s also possible to get to Sedona by car or bus.
Getting to Sedona From Phoenix
To embark on a day trip from Phoenix to Sedona, travelers will cover a distance of approximately 116 miles. The journey typically takes about 2 hours via I-17 North.
Start by driving north on I-17 from Phoenix, enjoying scenic views as you pass through Arizona’s captivating landscapes. As you approach the Sedona area, consider taking the scenic State Route 179, known as the Red Rock Scenic Byway, to fully immerse yourself in the stunning red rock formations that Sedona is renowned for.
This trip offers an easy and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making Sedona a perfect day trip destination from Phoenix.
Sedona Map via Google Maps
What is the Best Time to Visit Sedona?
Sedona is best visited during the spring and fall, from March to May and September to November. During these seasons, temperatures are mild and pleasant, with little rain. The red rocks look stunning against a cloudless sky, perfect for snapping some amazing photos! Hiking trails are also at their best during this period, as the cooler temperatures make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
For those looking to escape the hot desert summer and enjoy some cooler weather, Sedona is best visited between June and August. However, be mindful that July and August can be pretty crowded with tourists, and temperatures may reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.
Where to Stay in Sedona?
Sedona has a variety of accommodation options where you can stay for one night or more. Whether you’re looking for something luxurious, comfortable, or affordable, there’s something that suits every budget.
Our Top 3 Picks: Lodging in Sedona for Every Budget
#1 TOP PICK
Mid-Range Option
Budget Option
Explore more lodging options in Sedona with our interactive map below:
Is One Day Enough to Visit Sedona?
One day might not be enough time to immerse yourself in Sedona. However, one thing’s certain: one day in Sedona will give you plenty of time to marvel at its beauty!
Start your one-day adventure with a scenic drive through Sedona and its surrounding areas. You’ll be amazed at all the incredible views along the way — ensure your camera is ready! From there, you can check out one or two of Sedona’s many attractions, such as hiking one of the red rock trails or visiting one of its galleries.
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy a delicious meal at one of Sedona’s renowned restaurants before your one day in Sedona ends.
We recommend adding a hike to your Sedona itinerary if you can add an extra day or two to your trip. You can also schedule a day trip from Sedona. Popular options include Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Grand Canyon National Park.
There’s no way to fit all items from our list in a single-day visit. So select a few that would work for you, and plan to have a wonderful day visiting Sedona.
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Closing – If You Only Have One Day To Visit Sedona
Whether you have one day or weeks to spend in Sedona, you will be enchanted by all the things offered in the region. Doing your travel research ahead of time will help you make the most of your short (or long!) stay here. We hope your day trip to Sedona will be unforgettable!
Julie & Art
The Places Where We Go
#sedona
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