The Best Travel Guide to Sedona for Every Experience
Follow our comprehensive travel guide to Sedona to discover scenic hikes, the best places to eat, accommodations, and other unique offerings.
Someone once told me, “You don’t go to Sedona, you experience Sedona.” And they were damn right. Sedona lives up to the hype, offering sprawling red rock views, the magic of energy vortexes, shops full of local art and crystals, and hikes for every level. With so much to explore, planning a weekend getaway in Sedona can be overwhelming. We’ll lead the way with our complete travel guide to Sedona.
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This enchanting city has something for everyone. If you need a “must-do” guide to Sedona, we recommend:
- Hike the iconic red rocks
- Explore art and culture
- Visit scenic overlooks
- Meditate in a yoga class
- Taste Arizona-made wines
- Unwind at world-class spas
- Discover the magic of the vortexes
- Take a thrilling outdoor adventure tour
- Swim in Oak Creek at Slide Rock Park
- Indulge in artisanal Mexican and southwestern cuisine
Best Ways to Get To Sedona
- Phoenix Airport: 2 hours (120 miles)
- Flagstaff Airport: 40 minutes (26 miles)
- Las Vegas Airport: 4.5 hours (277 miles)
If you only have 3 or 4 days in Sedona, flying into Phoenix is your best travel option. Sky Harbor Airport is the most convenient for domestic and international travel. Almost half of their daily flights are non-stop, and they are served by 24 airlines. The PHX Sky Train transports passengers within airport property 24/7 every 3-5 minutes at no extra cost. This system can take you directly to your rental car. (Because you will need one)
American Airlines has direct flights to Flagstaff from Dallas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. The short drive from Flagstaff airport is ideal for a weekend getaway in Sedona.
Looking for a southwest road trip? Book a flight to Las Vegas and explore so much more in Arizona. Extend your trip to Sedona with a road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon before you reach your destination.
We have flown into both Phoenix and Las Vegas. We highly recommend the adventurous road trip guide to Sedona, but you can’t go wrong with either!
When To Visit Sedona
At an elevation of 4350ft, Sedona’s winter is mild compared to its neighboring city of Flagstaff and cooler than Phoenix, making it an ideal outdoor destination any time of year. There are pros and cons to every season. So, it depends on what you want to do and how much money you want to spend.
Spring: Spring in Sedona is the most picturesque time, with spring colors complimenting the red hues of the stunning red rock formations. Add spring in Sedona to your bucket list to experience the robust wildflower bloom. The downside to visiting this time of year is the crowds and high rates of hotels.
Summer: Summer weather here is not infamous like Phoenix, but you will still have hot days. The average summer temperature varies from the mid-80s to the mid-90s. Plan for some sunrise hikes to beat the heat and optimal views. Summer is a great time to visit if you want to swim in Slide Rock State Park or cool off in Oak Creek, but you must be aware that it is also monsoon season.
Fall: Cooler temperatures make fall a popular time to visit Sedona, and for good reason. The weather is similar to spring but with fewer crowds. Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon fall colors are stunning. Between October and November, yellow and orange hues blend into the desert landscape.
Winter: If you’re from the Northeast like us, Sedona winter temperatures in the mid-50s sound like our spring. We love Sedona in the winter to avoid the crowds, find cheap accommodations and have ideal temperatures for hiking. Even with lower temperatures, the desert sun warms you up midday. And if you’re lucky, you’ll wake up to a blanket of snow covering the red rocks. A view that will leave you awestruck.
Travel Tip: The desert sun is strong year-round, so make sure you stay hydrated in every season.
How to Get Around Sedona
You will absolutely need to rent a vehicle to guide you through Sedona. While the city itself is walkable, the total area is about 20 miles, not counting all the hiking trails. Sedona is divided into four sections: The Village of Oak Creek, West Sedona, Uptown Sedona, and Oak Creek Canyon. If you’re coming from the Phoenix area, the main road into Sedona is I-17. If you’re coming from Flagstaff or Las Vegas, you’ll drive on 89A.
Check Expedia.com for your best rental car options, and if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a campervan for the ultimate road trip adventure. We first discovered our love for camper vans AND Sedona on the same trip using Escape Campervans. We have also rented from Indie Campers. Both companies have locations in Phoenix and Las Vegas. If you’re interested in your first camper van road trip, read my post all about renting your first camper van.
Travel tip: if you’re driving South into Sedona, let the scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon be your guide to Sedona. This will cue your “oohs and ahs” with plenty of pull-off points for photo opportunities.
Take the scenic route: The Red Rock Scenic Byway traverses Highway 179 south of Sedona to the Village of Oak Creek.
Now that you’ve booked your flight to Sedona and your rental car (or campervan), let’s dive into the rest of your planning as we continue your guide to Sedona.
Accommodations in Sedona
The sense of mystical experiences and alluring landscapes makes Sedona a popular spa destination. The city is home to numerous luxury hotels and wellness centers that offer upscale accommodations. Each resort has something unique to offer its guests, but mostly all of them come equipped with a sprawling view of the iconic red rocks of Sedona.
Some of the best places to stay in Sedona with a view include:
- L’Auberge de Sedona (uptown Sedona): prices range from $409 to $576 per night
- Amara Resort (uptown Sedona): prices range from $236 to $537 per night
- Enchantment Resort (West Sedona): prices range from $367 to $1639 per night
Check out the Adobe Village Inn for a more budget-friendly and private place to stay in Sedona. This property is located in The Village of Oak Creek within walking distance of popular hikes, restaurants, and shops in Sedona. These studio suite and villa rentals are affordable and offer similar amenities, including an in-room jacuzzi and communal hot tub with views of the red rocks.
Find more hotels in Sedona using Expedia or booking.com to find the best rates for your travel dates. There are also countless vacation homes in Sedona on Airbnb and Vrbo. Find what fits your budget and suits your needs!
If you opted for a camper van rental, there aren’t many campgrounds in Sedona, but the city is surrounded by optimal places to camp. Bordered by the Coconino National Forest, dispersed camping and campgrounds are easy to find. Make sure you check for seasonal closures, and you book in advance if you’re visiting Sedona during its peak season. Use the Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture for campsites, rules, and regulations, and always remember to Leave No Trace!
You can also use apps like The Dyrt to find designated dispersed camping and campgrounds near Sedona.
We’ve stayed at the Manzanita Campground outside West Sedona, about a 10-15 minute drive into town. 10/10 campground!
Where to Eat in Sedona
You’ll find a wide range of places to eat in Sedona. From fine dining to casual restaurants and authentic Mexican fare, you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Sedona. In this guide to Sedona, we recommend:
- Elote Cafe for elevated Mexican food
- SaltRock Kitchen for craft cocktails and local, seasonal menu items
- Mariposa for scenic views while you dine on Latin-inspired cuisine
- Mesa Grill for comfort food and the most spectacular sunset views
- Cowboy Club for the unique southwestern fare and traditional Western vibes
- Pisa Lisa for wood-fired pizza and wine pairings
- 89Agave for traditional Mexican and a great mezcal selection
- FireCreek Coffee for scenic patio views away from the crowds, fresh local coffee, and fresh baked goods with gluten-free options (I drank the Golden Ratio every day)
- Local Juicery for organic, cold-pressed juices, smoothies, acai bowls, and healthy options to fuel your day *gluten-free and vegan options
We recommend calling ahead to make dinner reservations if you’re traveling during the busy season.
If you’re camping, there is a Whole Foods in town where you can do a quick food shop or hit the hot bar and salad station. We love this option on a budget!
What To Do in Sedona
Explore Sedona’s Magical Vortexes
One experience that draws visitors to Sedona is its natural and magical vortexes.
Sedona offers continuous blue skies and abounding river views, but this desert city is known for more than just its good looks. Sedona is known for its unique energy hotspots. These “vortexes” are gateways with spiritual balancing powers. Many people believe these natural phenomena, sprawled among the red rocks, bring intense spiritual awakening, healing powers, and overall good energy. Before we visited Sedona, we rolled our eyes at this. After our first visit, Scott and I both experienced the healing energy of the vortexes, which was one reason we went back a second time. When our bodies ache or our minds need a transformation, we crave a weekend in Sedona. Don’t believe us? With over five to choose from, try for yourself. No guide to Sedona is complete without this experience.
Visit Main Street of Sedona
Uptown Sedona is located at the intersection of 89A and Route 179. The walkable central hub is lined with art galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and shops filled with crystals and souvenirs. For a full spiritual healing experience, have your Aura photographed or get a palm reading. Main Street is worth spending a few hours during your weekend in Sedona walking around to take in the art and culture.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
After your nature fixes, go gallery hopping and indulge in homemade jewelry, food, music, and art at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Before you reach uptown Sedona, this must-visit artistic village boasts a rich, creative community in this distinct outdoor market. The stucco-covered buildings, decorative arches, and cobblestone paths escort you into a charming village filled with specialty shops. Art galleries, crafts, contemporary jewelry, and home decor are among the many storefronts you’ll find here. This is also where you can find Oak Creek Brewery and enjoy a delicious meal at other restaurants in a garden setting. The best of everything can be found in the heart of Sedona.
Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Overlooks
If you weren’t an outdoor enthusiast before, a trip to Sedona will spark the adventure seeker in you. With over 200 trails to choose from, Sedona has something for everyone. Explore the desert and flora-lined trails of the red rocks with thrilling activities like hiking, mountain biking, ATV tours, and rock climbing. Or, jump on a Jeep Tour for your guide to Sedona. There are plenty of hidden gems in the rugged landscape. Sedona is dotted with breathtaking overlooks, allowing visitors of all experience levels to connect with its natural beauty. Let nature be your guide to Sedona on one of our favorite hikes for all levels. And don’t forget to pack our hiking essentials!
Have a Spa-Day
Amidst the unique shops, deep canyons, and stunning scenery of Sedona, your wellness experience awaits. Personalized services cater to your ideal sense of well-being. The tranquility of Sedona’s world-renowned spas offers the ultimate day of relaxation and rejuvenation. There is no shortage of luxury spas in Sedona, so reset your mind, body, and soul while you pamper yourself for a day. For a unique and transformative healing experience, contact Lori Lané at Raven’s Call Healing Center.
Other notable things to do around Sedona
- Verde Valley Wine Trail: this wine trail 20 minutes outside Sedona offers the dry climate and water access that grapes need to thrive
- Oak Creek Canyon & Slide Rock State Park: a must-see in the warmer months for natural water slides and pools to swim in
- Visit Jerome to explore the Gold King Mine and Ghost Town: this small town is an eccentric artist hub with quirky shops and local wine-tasting rooms.
Sedona is a haven of luxury brimming with outdoor experiences. How many days you spend here depends on your adventurous spirit and budget. In recent years, this small city has gotten more expensive, but it is worth every penny! Sedona is not only a feast for the eyes but also a sanctuary for the soul.
With so much to do in Sedona, it can be tough to squeeze everything in. We’ve helped friends with our sample 3-Day Sedona Itinerary. Head over to that post for a comprehensive 3-day guide to Sedona!
Make sure you pin this guide to Sedona for future planning! If you have any questions about this post, just ask in the comments!
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