Top 10 Things to Do in Sedona

1. Hike Cathedral Rock

Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona's defining landmarks, rising above the red-rock country south of town. Even travelers who do not tackle the steep climb can appreciate the formation from surrounding trails and viewpoints. The route toward the saddle is short but strenuous, with steep rock sections that require hands as well as feet, so treat it as a real hike rather than a casual overlook. Early morning is usually the most comfortable time for hiking and photography, particularly in warmer months. Trailhead access and parking arrangements can change during busy periods, so check current Coconino National Forest and Sedona Shuttle information before setting out. Cathedral Rock is also one of the locations associated with Sedona's modern vortex tradition; whether or not that idea appeals to you, the geology and views provide plenty of reason to visit.

2. Explore Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte

Bell Rock is one of the easiest major Sedona formations to recognize and one of the best places to tailor an outing to your ability. Short approaches provide broad views with relatively little commitment, while longer routes around Bell Rock and neighboring Courthouse Butte turn the stop into a substantial hike. The open terrain makes the area's red sandstone architecture especially easy to appreciate, and sunrise or late-afternoon light can bring out deep orange and crimson tones. Bell Rock is south of central Sedona near the Village of Oak Creek, making it a natural first or last stop when arriving via State Route 179. Expect popular trailheads to be busy during peak periods, carry more water than you think you will need, and avoid exposed midday hiking during extreme heat.

3. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

Built directly into the red-rock setting, the Chapel of the Holy Cross offers one of Sedona's most distinctive combinations of architecture and landscape. The visit is relatively short compared with a hike, which makes it easy to pair with Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, or attractions along State Route 179. From the chapel area, look outward as much as inward: the elevated setting provides striking views across the surrounding formations. This is an active place of worship as well as a visitor attraction, so a quiet and respectful visit is appropriate. Parking is limited and the uphill approach can become congested at popular times. For travelers building a varied Sedona day, the chapel works particularly well as a cultural stop between longer outdoor activities.

4. Walk Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village

Tlaquepaque gives a Sedona itinerary a useful change of pace after a morning on the trails. Its shaded courtyards, galleries, specialty shops, restaurants, fountains, and pedestrian passages create a compact place to wander without committing to another outdoor excursion. The village is especially appealing in the middle of the day, when exposed trails may be hot, or in the evening before dinner. Rather than treating it as a substitute for Sedona's landscape, use it as a complement: a morning hike followed by lunch, galleries, and a slower afternoon creates a much better rhythm than trying to squeeze several major trails into one day. Art is an important part of Sedona's visitor culture, and Tlaquepaque provides one of the easiest introductions to that side of town.

5. Watch the sunset from Airport Mesa

Airport Mesa is one of Sedona's most accessible panoramic viewpoints, with broad sightlines toward formations including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and the surrounding red-rock skyline. It is particularly popular near sunset, when low-angle light intensifies the color of the sandstone. That popularity is also the catch: parking near the smaller viewpoint can be difficult at peak times. Allow extra time rather than planning to arrive at the last possible minute. A longer mesa loop can turn the viewpoint into a hike, while travelers short on time can simply use the area for an elevated overview of Sedona's geography. Airport Mesa is also commonly identified as a vortex location, but the tangible attraction is straightforward enough—the view is excellent.

6. Explore Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park protects a quieter stretch of the Sedona landscape along Oak Creek and is a good choice for travelers who want scenery and walking without committing to one of the area's steeper signature hikes. Trails cross riparian habitat and climb to viewpoints over the creek corridor and surrounding red-rock formations. The contrast between cottonwoods, water, and sandstone makes the park feel different from Sedona's more exposed trail systems. It is also a useful place to slow down and learn about the area's natural environment rather than simply moving from photo stop to photo stop. Because it is an Arizona state park, admission and operating details are separate from Coconino National Forest recreation sites; check current park information before visiting.

7. Discover Oak Creek and Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek provides Sedona's green counterpoint to the surrounding red rock. North of town, State Route 89A follows Oak Creek Canyon toward Flagstaff through a corridor of forest, cliffs, creek access, picnic areas, and trailheads. The canyon is especially attractive when you want a scenic drive or a cooler landscape after time on exposed desert trails. In autumn, deciduous trees along the creek can add vivid seasonal color. Popular recreation sites can fill quickly, and traffic on the two-lane canyon road may be slow during busy periods, so this is not a drive to wedge between tightly scheduled activities. Give Oak Creek its own block of time and enjoy the transition from Sedona's open red-rock country into a more enclosed canyon environment.

8. Hike Boynton Canyon

Boynton Canyon offers a different Sedona experience from the exposed climbs around Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. The trail enters a long red-rock canyon framed by cliffs and forest, creating a more immersive landscape as the route progresses. It is a good choice for travelers who want a longer hike and enough time to experience Sedona beyond a roadside viewpoint. Boynton Canyon is also one of the places associated with Sedona's vortex tradition, which brings additional visitors to the area. Start early, carry ample water, and plan for changing sun exposure as you move through the canyon. Parking and trailhead access can be competitive during popular seasons, so current Forest Service and local transportation information is worth checking before departure.