Best Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona Year-Round

If you’ve ever dreamed of a place that glows like a painting, where the sky blushes at sunset and red rocks rise like ancient cathedrals — welcome to Sedona, Arizona. The first time I drove into this desert oasis, I couldn’t believe how surreal it looked. My GPS said “Sedona, AZ,” but it felt like I had entered another world.

From the first crimson cliffs of Oak Creek Canyon to the tranquil energy of its vortex sites, Sedona draws travelers, artists, and dreamers alike. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or planning the ultimate Sedona Arizona bucket list, this is your guide to the best things to do in Sedona year-round — full of personal tips, hidden gems, and real travel experiences.

Why Sedona is Magical Year-Round

Sedona isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling. Every season adds a different color to its soul — wildflowers in spring, glowing red rocks in summer, golden aspens in fall, and snow-dusted mesas in winter.

Here’s what makes Sedona so special, no matter when you visit:

• Mild climate year-round – You can hike, shop, and explore comfortably almost every month.
  
• Spiritual energy – Known for its vortex sites, Sedona is one of the most spiritually charged places in the U.S.
  
• Photographer’s paradise – Every corner is postcard-worthy.
  
• Adventure hub – From jeep tours to hot-air balloon rides, there’s endless Sedona stuff to do.
  
• Art & culture – Galleries, boutiques, and local festivals make it a creative heaven.
  

So whether you’re planning what to do around Sedona AZ in July or seeking things to do in Sedona Arizona for adults in October, this red rock paradise won’t disappoint.

Sedona Arizona Bucket List

Before diving into details, here’s a quick Sedona Arizona bucket list table — a checklist of the top things to do in Sedona Arizona that no traveler should miss.

These aren’t just touristy checkmarks — each one has a story. Let’s explore them with a personal touch.

Cathedral Rock — A Must-Do Sedona AZ Experience

When people ask me “What is there to do in Sedona Arizona?”, my first answer is always Cathedral Rock.
This trail isn’t just a hike — it’s a rite of passage. The climb may be steep in parts, but every step rewards you with views that steal your breath.

I remember sitting at the saddle point, the red cliffs glowing gold under the setting sun. It felt timeless — like nature whispering a secret.

Travel Tip:

• Best time to visit: Late afternoon for sunset views
  
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
  
• Bring: Water, sunscreen, and good shoes
  

Cathedral Rock belongs on everyone’s Sedona bucket list — whether you’re a hiker or just want to soak up the view.

Chapel of the Holy Cross — Spiritual Beauty in Stone

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the top things to see in Sedona. Built right into the red rock cliffs, it’s a masterpiece of architecture and peace.

I still remember walking up the path early one morning — the red stone glowing under the first light. Inside, sunlight poured through tall windows framing the desert beyond. Whether you’re spiritual or not, it’s impossible not to feel something here.

Why it’s a Must-Do Sedona AZ Stop:

• Stunning panoramic views of Sedona
  
• Quiet, meditative atmosphere
  
• Perfect photo spot
  

Red Rock Scenic Byway — A Road Trip Dream

If you’re wondering what to do around Sedona Arizona, the Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) is the answer. This short 7.5-mile drive packs some of the prettiest places in Sedona into a single route.

Every curve reveals a new wonder — Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and breathtaking overlooks. Roll down your windows, turn on some road trip tunes, and let Sedona’s landscape do the rest.

Sedona Guide Tip:

• Stop at Bell Rock Pathway for an easy walk
• Visit Little Horse Trailhead for photos
  
• Great for sunrise or sunset drives
  

Bell Rock & Sedona’s Vortex Energy

One of the most unique things to do and see in Sedona Arizona is exploring its vortex sites. Locals say these spots radiate powerful energy that helps with meditation, creativity, and healing.

Among them, Bell Rock is the most famous. Even if you’re skeptical about spiritual energy, you’ll feel something — maybe it’s the beauty, maybe it’s the silence, maybe it’s both.

Must-Do Experience:

• Take a light hike up Bell Rock
  
• Bring a yoga mat or journal — it’s a perfect reflection spot
  
• Visit early morning for peace and golden light
  

Bell Rock proves there are both spiritual and adventurous things to do in Sedona Arizona for adults — a mix you won’t find anywhere else.

Pink Jeep Tours — Adventure at Its Best

If you’re craving something thrilling, the Pink Jeep Tours are pure fun. These bright pink off-road jeeps take you deep into canyons and trails you’d never reach on your own.

I booked the Broken Arrow Tour, and it was unforgettable — steep climbs, jaw-dropping views, and plenty of laughs. It’s one of those top activities in Sedona that combines excitement with scenery.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Great for families, couples, or solo travelers
  
• Knowledgeable local guides
  
• Fantastic photo ops
  

Add this to your Sedona Arizona things to do list — it’s a must!

Sunset at Airport Mesa — The Golden Hour Magic

If you ask locals about the best things to do in Sedona, they’ll likely say, “Go to Airport Mesa at sunset.”
The panoramic view from the overlook is beyond words — red rocks glowing orange, skies painted pink and lavender, and the entire valley spread before you.

I’ve seen many sunsets, but none quite like Sedona’s. Bring your camera, a light jacket, and maybe a snack. Watching the sun dip behind the mesas is a moment that lingers long after you’ve left.

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

If you’re looking for things to do in Sedona for adults that don’t involve hiking, this is the spot.
Tlaquepaque Arts Village feels like stepping into a Mexican courtyard — cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.

I loved wandering through pottery stores and sipping coffee under vine-draped arches. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to desert-inspired art here.

Sedona Stuff to Do Tip:

• Visit on weekends for live music
  
• Don’t miss the Chapel Gallery
  
• Great stop for souvenirs
  

Slide Rock State Park — A Summer Favorite

When you’re wondering what to do in Sedona Arizona in July, Slide Rock State Park is your answer. This natural water slide in Oak Creek Canyon is one of the most fun things to do in Sedona Arizona in summer.

I went on a hot July day, and it was perfect — cool water, laughter all around, and beautiful canyon views.

Things to Do at Sedona AZ – Slide Rock Highlights:

• Swim, slide, or just relax by the creek
  
• Bring water shoes for the slippery rocks
  
• Perfect family-friendly activity
  

Stargazing in Sedona — Nature’s Night Show

One of the top things to do in Sedona AZ at night is stargazing. Because Sedona is a Dark Sky Community, its night skies are unbelievably clear.

Drive a few miles out of town, maybe to Crescent Moon Picnic Site, lie back, and watch the Milky Way appear. It’s humbling and magical — a perfect way to end your Sedona day.

Every time I return to Sedona, Arizona, it feels brand new. The light shifts, the red rocks glow differently, and the air carries a fresh kind of calm. What makes this place truly magical is how it changes with the seasons — each one offering unique things to do in Sedona Arizona, whether you visit in July’s summer heat or October’s golden glow.

So, let’s take a journey through Sedona’s year-round charm — season by season, with the best local tips, Sedona stuff to do, and Sedona Arizona bucket list ideas that make this desert paradise unforgettable.

Summer Magic — What to Do in Sedona Arizona in July & August

Visiting Sedona in the summer means long days, golden sunsets, and the sound of cicadas echoing through red canyons. July and August can be warm, but there’s no shortage of things to do in Sedona Arizona in July or things to do in Sedona Arizona in August if you know where to go (and when to cool off).

Here are my top things to do in Sedona Arizona during the summer months:

1. Slide Rock State Park – Beat the Heat Naturally

If you’re wondering what to do around Sedona AZ to cool off, head straight to Slide Rock State Park.
This natural water playground is one of the top things to do in Sedona AZ when temperatures rise.
You can swim, slide down smooth red rock chutes, or just dip your feet in Oak Creek while soaking up the sunshine.

Sedona Guide Tip:

• Go early to avoid crowds (especially on weekends).
  
• Bring water shoes — the rocks can get slippery!
  
• Perfect for families and groups looking for refreshing things to do around Sedona Arizona.
  

2. Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive – The Cool Escape

Driving through Oak Creek Canyon feels like entering a lush secret world within the desert. The temperature drops, the air smells of pine, and the views are jaw-dropping.

If you’re planning things to do near Sedona AZ, this drive is perfect — winding roads, hidden picnic spots, and trails that lead to crystal-clear creeks.

Must-Do Sedona AZ Experience:

• Stop at the West Fork Trail for a shady hike with stunning canyon walls.
• Bring snacks for a scenic roadside picnic.
  

3. Sunset Picnics at Crescent Moon Ranch

During the summer, one of my favorite things to do in Sedona Arizona for adults is to pack a sunset picnic at Crescent Moon Ranch. The view of Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek is breathtaking — especially as the sky blushes pink and gold.

Add this spot to your Sedona Arizona bucket list — it’s romantic, peaceful, and one of the prettiest places in Sedona to unwind after a long day of exploring.

4. Sedona Wine Trail – Sip Among the Red Rocks

Who says desert landscapes can’t make great wine? Sedona’s nearby Verde Valley Wine Trail proves otherwise.
If you’re searching for things to do in Sedona Arizona for adults, this is one of the top picks.

Visit Page Springs Cellars or Javelina Leap Vineyard, both within a short drive of Sedona. You’ll sip world-class Arizona wines while overlooking vineyards framed by red cliffs.

Sedona Trip Idea:
Book a half-day wine-tasting tour with a local guide — no driving worries, just good wine and beautiful views.

5. Stargazing Nights – Cosmic Sedona

Even summer nights in Sedona feel magical. The city’s Dark Sky Community status means you’ll see stars like nowhere else. Grab a blanket, drive out to Crescent Moon Picnic Site or Doe Mesa, and watch the Milky Way shimmer.

For something special, join a local stargazing tour — one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Sedona after dark.

Fall Bliss — What to Do in Sedona Arizona in October

October is my favorite time to visit. The air turns crisp, the crowds thin out, and the golden hues of fall paint the canyons in fiery shades.

If you’re planning what to do in Sedona Arizona in October, here’s your perfect lineup:

1. Hike the West Fork Trail

Fall transforms this canyon trail into a masterpiece of gold and red leaves. It’s one of the top things to see in Sedona, especially for photographers and nature lovers.

Every turn of the trail reveals reflections of amber leaves on the water — it’s pure serenity.

2. Helicopter Tour Over the Red Rocks

Want a bird’s-eye view of the prettiest places in Sedona? Take a helicopter ride in October when the skies are clear and crisp. You’ll glide over Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Oak Creek Canyon — the landscape glowing with autumn color.

This is truly one of those must-do Sedona AZ experiences that stays in your memory forever.

3. Sedona Arts Festival

For creative souls, the Sedona Arts Festival in October is a highlight. Local artists display their work against the red rock backdrop, and the energy is inspiring.

If you love culture, art, and community, this event is one of the top Sedona Arizona things to do in the fall.

Spring Awakening — The Perfect Hiking Season

Spring brings Sedona to life. Wildflowers bloom across the desert, and temperatures are ideal for exploring.

Here’s what to add to your Sedona bucket list during springtime:

• Doe Mountain Trail: Great for panoramic views with moderate effort.
  
• Devil’s Bridge Trail: Iconic Sedona hike — cross the natural sandstone arch for the ultimate photo.
  
• Boynton Canyon: Known for vortex energy and lush spring landscapes.
  

If you love nature and photography, these are Sedona top things to do in spring.

Things to Do in Sedona Arizona for Adults

While Sedona is family-friendly, it’s also a dream destination for adults seeking peace, luxury, and self-discovery. Here are the best things to do in Sedona Arizona for adults who crave deeper experiences.

1. Spa & Wellness Retreats

Sedona is famous for its healing energy, so why not indulge in a vortex-inspired spa treatment?
Resorts like L’Auberge de Sedona and Amara Resort & Spa offer massages infused with local desert botanicals and crystal therapy.

2. Wine & Dine with a View

If you’re thinking things to do in Sedona for adults, food is part of the journey.

• Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill – fine dining with sunset views.
  
• Elote Café – legendary Southwestern cuisine.
  
• Hideaway House – cozy spot overlooking the red rocks.
  

3. Yoga in the Vortex

Join an early morning yoga class at Bell Rock or Cathedral Rock — the serenity is unmatched.
It’s one of the most rejuvenating things to do at Sedona AZ and a spiritual experience that grounds you to the earth.

4. Evening Bonfire at Enchantment Resort

Few moments beat sitting under the stars, wrapped in a blanket, with a glass of local wine by the firepit at Enchantment Resort.
If romance or solitude is your goal, this is a must-do Sedona AZ experience for adults.

The Prettiest Places in Sedona

Every traveler needs their Sedona Arizona bucket list of views, and I’ve got yours covered.

Here’s a quick table of the prettiest places in Sedona — perfect for photographers, couples, or anyone chasing magic.

Each spot feels like a new version of Sedona — quiet, wild, sacred, and alive.

Sedona Trip Ideas for Every Traveler

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long retreat, here are some Sedona trip ideas to inspire your next adventure.

For Couples

• Watch sunset at Airport Mesa.

• Romantic dinner at Mariposa Grill.

• Spa day and stargazing night.
  

For Adventurers

• Hike Devil’s Bridge at sunrise.

• Go on a Pink Jeep Tour.

• Explore Soldier Pass Cave.
  

For Spiritual Seekers

• Visit Bell Rock & Cathedral Rock vortexes.

• Take a meditation class in town.

• Attend a sound healing session at a local retreat.
  

For First-Time Visitors

• Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway.

• Stop at Tlaquepaque Arts Village.

• Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross.

No matter your travel style, Sedona has things to do and see that speak to your heart.

Unusual Things to Do in Sedona

Sure, we’ve all heard of Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock — but there’s a different kind of charm in Sedona’s lesser-known corners.

Here are a few unusual things to do in Sedona that even repeat visitors often miss:

1. Explore the Soldier Pass Cave

Hidden deep in the red rocks, Soldier Pass Cave is a local favorite for offbeat explorers. The trail is a bit rugged, but reaching the cave feels like discovering a secret world carved by time.

Sedona Guide Tip:

• Bring good hiking shoes and plenty of water.

• Early morning hikes are best — fewer crowds and cooler weather.

• Great spot for photographers chasing unique angles of the desert.
  

2. Attend a Vortex Sound Healing Session

Sedona’s energy vortexes aren’t just about meditation; they’ve inspired a whole culture of healing. Try a sound bath or energy healing session in the heart of a vortex site — one of the most spiritual and unusual things to do in Sedona Arizona.

You’ll feel the vibration of Tibetan singing bowls echo through the canyon, and somehow, the stress of the outside world just melts away.

3. Visit Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

This peaceful Buddhist park is a hidden gem among things to do in Sedona AZ.
Surrounded by juniper trees and red cliffs, it’s a tranquil spot for meditation, prayer flags fluttering in the desert breeze.

Whether you’re spiritual or simply seeking quiet reflection, it’s one of the most meaningful Sedona things to see and do.

4. Explore Sedona’s UFO Night Tours

Yes, you read that right. Sedona’s wide-open skies and spiritual aura make it a hotspot for UFO enthusiasts.
Join a guided UFO night tour — it’s part stargazing, part mystery, and entirely unforgettable.

Even if you don’t see anything otherworldly, the desert night sky alone makes it one of the most exciting top activities in Sedona.

5. Catch a Show at Sedona Performing Arts Center

If you’re looking for things to do in Sedona Arizona for adults beyond nature, check out a live concert, theater show, or film screening at this community venue.
It’s a local favorite and adds a touch of art and culture to your Sedona AZ things to do list.

Things to Do Around Sedona Arizona

Sedona might steal your heart, but the beauty doesn’t stop at its borders.
If you’re wondering what to do around Sedona Arizona or things to do near Sedona AZ, you’re in for a treat — from wine country drives to ancient ruins and scenic small towns.

Here are some Sedona trip ideas that take you just a bit further afield.

1. Montezuma Castle National Monument

About 25 minutes from downtown Sedona lies one of the most fascinating things to do around Sedona Arizona — the ancient cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people.
Montezuma Castle is a five-story structure built right into limestone cliffs nearly 1,000 years ago!

Sedona Guide Tip:

• Combine it with a visit to Montezuma Well, just 10 minutes away.
• Ideal for history lovers or anyone adding cultural sites to their Sedona bucket list.
  

2. Verde Valley Wine Trail

A short drive from Sedona takes you to Arizona’s best wine region — the Verde Valley.
This area is full of boutique vineyards, charming tasting rooms, and scenic drives.

Top Wineries to Visit:

• Page Springs Cellars

• Alcantara Vineyards

• Oak Creek Vineyards
  

These make fantastic things to do near Sedona AZ for adults — and an elegant contrast to Sedona’s rugged beauty.

3. Jerome — The Ghost Town on the Hill

Once a copper mining town, Jerome is now one of the most fascinating things to do around Sedona. It’s about 40 minutes away, perched dramatically on Cleopatra Hill, with winding streets, quirky art shops, and historic saloons.

I still remember sipping coffee at a café that used to be a brothel in the 1800s — only in Arizona!

Sedona Trip Idea:

• Spend an afternoon here exploring haunted hotels and vintage stores.

• Great for photographers and history buffs.
  

4. Cottonwood & Clarkdale — Hidden Local Gems

If you’re craving small-town charm, head to Cottonwood and Clarkdale.
Both towns are filled with wineries, antique shops, and the laid-back vibe of local Arizona life.

It’s one of the best things to do near Sedona Arizona if you’re staying for a week and want to experience authentic southwestern culture.

5. Verde Canyon Railroad

Want a unique way to see the region? Hop on the Verde Canyon Railroad — a vintage train that winds through red rock canyons, past ancient ruins and the Verde River.

It’s relaxing, scenic, and one of the top things to do in Sedona Arizona if you love nature without the hiking boots.

Things to Do and See in Sedona Arizona

Whether you’re after adrenaline or stillness, Sedona has it all.

My Personal Sedona Guide Reflections

Sedona taught me that adventure doesn’t always roar — sometimes it whispers through the wind between red cliffs.

I’ve hiked its trails, meditated by its creeks, and sipped wine beneath its star-studded skies. But the best part about Sedona isn’t what you do — it’s what you feel.

So if you’re still wondering what is there to do in Sedona Arizona, here’s my honest answer:
Do everything that calls to you — and nothing that doesn’t.

Whether it’s hiking to Devil’s Bridge at dawn, exploring Bell Rock’s vortex, or simply watching the sun dip low at Crescent Moon, every moment here feels intentional.

Add it all to your Sedona Arizona bucket list, check off what you can, and promise yourself you’ll be back. Because trust me — you will want to come back.

Final Sedona Travel Tips

Before you pack your bags for this red rock wonderland, here are my best travel insights:

• Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–October (comfortable weather, fewer crowds).

• Getting Around: A car is essential — Sedona’s beauty lies between trails and scenic drives.

• Where to Stay:
  • L’Auberge de Sedona — luxury riverside stay.

  • Arabella Hotel — mid-range with stunning views.

  • Amara Resort — perfect for couples.

• What to Pack: Sunscreen, hiking shoes, hat, camera, and a refillable water bottle.

• Local Etiquette: Respect trail rules and sacred vortex sites — Sedona’s spirituality is part of its heart.

Frequently Asked Questions — Sedona Edition

Q1. What is there to do in Sedona Arizona for first-time visitors?

A: Start with Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway, shop at Tlaquepaque, and catch a sunset at Airport Mesa.

Q2. What to do in Sedona Arizona in July or August?

A: Cool off at Slide Rock State Park, enjoy Oak Creek Canyon, and go stargazing at night. For adults, check out the Verde Valley Wine Trail or local spas.

Q3. What to do in Sedona Arizona in October?

A: October is perfect for hiking the West Fork Trail, exploring Boynton Canyon, or attending the Sedona Arts Festival.

Q4. What are the top things to see in Sedona Arizona?

A: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Red Rock Crossing.

Q5. What are some unusual things to do in Sedona?

A: Try a UFO tour, vortex healing session, visit Amitabha Stupa, or explore Soldier Pass Cave.

Q6. What to do around Sedona Arizona?

A: Visit Jerome, Montezuma Castle, Cottonwood, or take the Verde Canyon Railroad — all within an hour’s drive.

Why Sedona Belongs on Your Bucket List

If I could describe Sedona in one word, it would be transformative.
It’s the kind of place where you slow down, breathe deeper, and feel connected to something bigger.

From spiritual awakenings to wild adventures, there’s endless Sedona stuff to do that speaks to every traveler’s heart.

So go — wander the trails, chase sunsets, and let Sedona’s red rocks remind you how beautiful stillness can be.

Because the truth is, the best things to do in Sedona Arizona aren’t just activities — they’re experiences that change the way you see the world.

Sedona isn’t about ticking off a checklist; it’s about finding magic in every moment. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, the desert will always find new ways to surprise you.

So next time someone asks you what to do in Sedona Arizona — smile, because you’ll know that the real answer is everything.