If you consider yourself a nature person and you love the great outdoors, your next vacation should be to Sedona, Arizona. With so many great things to do in Sedona, we had to limit it to just 10. Here are a few ideas to help you plan a fabulous trip!
Here are 10 popular things to do in Sedona, AZ.
1. Hiking
There are many options for hiking in Red Rock Country. You can learn about all the most popular places to hike, including the Rim Road/General Crook Trail Loop, the Around the Peaks Loop, and the Oak Creek Canyon by downloading this Sedona Hiking App for your phone. This app currently has over 100 trails with 360 miles of hikes documented for you to explore during your visit to Sedona, AZ.
2. Scenic Drives
Take a ride along the Red Rock Scenic Byway, one of only 27 roads in the country designed for their unique recreational, natural and scenic qualities. Boynton Pass Loop and Page Springs Loop are two additional options. If you’d rather let someone else do the driving, hop aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad in Sedona, AZ. This heritage railroad runs for 20 miles between Clarkdale and Perkinsville. It’s a great way to relax while taking in Arizona’s beautiful scenery!
3. Birding
Sedona and the Verde Valley are a paradise for bird watchers. Its mild climate bless the area with year-round opportunities for birding. Sedona attracts almost a third of the 900 bird species in Canada and the United States! If you’re interested in birding in the Verde River Valley, you should attend the Verde Valley Birding & Nature Festival, where over 100 species of birds can be seen. Another popular activity for bird lovers is the Guided Bird Hikes in Red Rock State Park.
4. Golf
Sedona is an excellent location for a golf getaway. Be sure to check out the Sedona Golf Resort, the Canyon Mesa Country Club and the Oakcreek County Club for places to play. This list of Sedona Golf Courses will tell you everything you need to know: par, length, rating, and contact information.
5. State Parks
State Parks are always hot spots for travelers, but Sedona’s are especially interesting due to its breathtaking scenery. Spend a few hours or an entire day at Slide Rock, one of “America’s Top 10 Swimming Holes,” or Red Rock State Park, where you’ll find 286 acres of nature with interesting activities like hiking, bird watching tours, wildflower walks, moonlight hikes, geology discussions, and more!
6. Horseback Riding
One of the best ways to truly take in the Sedona landscape is to go horseback riding. Oftentimes, you only get a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty while driving. Slow down one evening and venture out into Sedona on horseback. Ride through creeks and streams and allow yourself time to truly appreciate the beauty of the rock formations. When you’ve worked up an appetite, return to enjoy a traditional cowboy cookout!
7. Mountain Biking
Considered a world-class destination for mountain biking, Sedona offers riders the best conditions in winter, fall, and spring. Winter days can be perfect due to the intensity of the sun. Fall and summer are also ideal times, but summer is too hot for mountain biking. Sedona has an extensive network of bike trails already and is constantly adding more! Trails range in difficulty from easy to extremely intense. If you’re found a place you’d like to ride, make sure it’s not one of the specially-designated wilderness areas where bikes are off limits.
8. Fishing
The U.S. Forest Service provides several day-use fishing sites at the Call of the Canyon. The Oak Creek and the Verde River are also great spots for fishing. Both spots have beautiful scenery and abundant waters. You might catch rainbow trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, and flathead catfish! Make sure you obtain a valid fishing license before you cast your lines.
9. Art Galleries
Sedona has a huge artistic community with more than 40 galleries showcasing great work. One art gallery that’s not to be missed is the Turquoise Tortoise Gallery. This is one of the oldest and most acclaimed Sedona art galleries! Check out the Sedona Gallery Guide to find more extraordinary art galleries in this area.
10. Shopping
Find one-of-a-kind items in Sedona, where the shopping districts include much more than a shopping mall. Located in South Sedona, the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village is an acclaimed shopping , arts, and culture destination for locals and tourists alike. From handmade jewelry to unique art, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more!
Where To Stay In Sedona, AZ
After you make note of these popular things to do in Sedona, we encourage you to start planning your getaway. There is a Select Registry property in the area that will ensure you have a memorable stay!
- Canyon Villa Bed & Breakfast Inn of Sedona will allow you to experience the incredible beauty of the Red Rocks right from your bed, patio or deck. Known as the Inn with the Million Dollar Views, it has a AAA 4-Diamond rating.
Don’t wait to book your stay with one of these Select Registry members! We guarantee you won’t be disappointed by any of our great Arizona Inns!
