7 Best Things to Do in Sedona Besides Hiking
Sedona is famous for its trails, and for good reason. But plenty of people come here who don’t want to spend the whole trip hiking, whether that’s because of the heat, their knees or just a preference for views that come with a coffee.
In this guide
- 1. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
- 2. Take a jeep tour
- 3. Wander Tlaquepaque
- 4. Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway
- 5. Swim at Slide Rock State Park
- 6. Watch the sunset from Airport Mesa
- 7. Take a day trip to Jerome
- When to visit Sedona
- Where to stay
- Getting there and around
- A word about the vortexes
- Common questions
The good news is that Sedona’s red rocks are just as stunning from a car seat, a jeep or a patio. Here are seven of the best things to do in Sedona besides hiking.
1. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is built right into the red rock buttes south of town, with a giant cross forming the front wall. It was finished in 1956, and it’s one of the most photographed buildings in Arizona.
Entry is free, and it’s a short, steep walk up a paved ramp from the parking area. The inside is small and quiet, with huge windows looking out over the valley. Parking is tight, so go early in the morning or take the free Sedona shuttle when it’s running.
2. Take a jeep tour
A jeep tour is the best way to see the backcountry without walking it. Guides drive you over rough dirt roads and slickrock to viewpoints most visitors never reach, while telling you about the geology and history along the way.
Pink Jeep Tours is the best-known company, but there are several good ones. The Broken Arrow route is the bumpy, thrilling favorite. If you’d rather keep it gentle, ask for a scenic tour instead. Expect to pay roughly $100 to $200 per person, and book a day or two ahead.
3. Wander Tlaquepaque
Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village looks like a small Mexican town, with stone archways, courtyards, fountains and vines growing up the walls. It’s full of galleries, craft shops and a handful of good restaurants.
Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a lovely place to walk around for an hour, especially in the shade on a hot afternoon. Around the holidays, the courtyards are lit with thousands of luminarias, and it’s magical.
4. Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway
State Route 179, south of town, is officially the Red Rock Scenic Byway, and it’s only about seven and a half miles long. Even so, it’s packed with views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and Cathedral Rock.
Pull over at the Bell Rock Vista parking area and walk a few minutes out on the flat path for a closer look. You don’t have to climb anything. Just note that many trailhead lots here need a Red Rock Pass, which you can buy at kiosks on site.
5. Swim at Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park sits in Oak Creek Canyon, about seven miles north of Sedona. The star is a natural chute in the creek bed, worn smooth over time, that you can slide down into a cool pool.
It’s a summer favorite, so arrive when it opens or expect a long wait to park. The water is cold even in July, and the rocks are slippery, so wear water shoes. The drive up the canyon on Highway 89A is worth doing on its own, too.
▶ Watch This Before You Go
6. Watch the sunset from Airport Mesa
Airport Mesa is the classic spot for sunset in Sedona. The overlook gives you a wide view across the town to the red rocks, which glow bright orange as the sun drops. There’s a small paid lot right by the viewpoint.
Arrive at least 45 minutes early, because it fills up. If it’s full, the restaurant patio at the nearby Sky Ranch Lodge has a similar view with a drink in hand. Stay after sunset, too. Sedona is a certified dark sky community, and the stars come out fast.
7. Take a day trip to Jerome
Jerome is an old copper mining town about 45 minutes from Sedona, clinging to the side of a mountain. It once had around 15,000 residents. Now it has a few hundred, plus galleries, wine tasting rooms and a reputation as one of the most haunted towns in Arizona.
Walk Main Street, stop at the Jerome State Historic Park for great views over the Verde Valley, and grab lunch with a view. On the drive back, you can stop in Cottonwood or at one of the wineries in the valley.
When to visit Sedona
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Sedona, with warm days and cool nights. Summer is hot, often above 95 degrees, though the creek and early mornings help. Winter is quiet and mild, with the occasional dusting of snow on the red rocks, which is a beautiful sight.
Where to stay
Uptown Sedona is the most walkable area, with shops and restaurants close by. West Sedona has more affordable hotels and easy access to Airport Mesa. If you want a splurge, the resorts near Boynton Canyon are set right among the rocks. Village of Oak Creek, south of town, is cheaper and close to Bell Rock.
Getting there and around
Sedona is about two hours north of Phoenix by car, and that’s how most people get here. You’ll want a car once you arrive, too. Traffic on 89A and 179 can be heavy on weekends, so try to do your driving early and use the free shuttle to reach popular trailheads.
A word about the vortexes
You’ll hear a lot about Sedona’s vortexes, spots where some people say they feel a special energy. Whether or not you buy it, the places themselves, like Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock and Airport Mesa, are beautiful, and you can reach the edges of most without a real hike. Plenty of shops in town offer readings and tours if you’re curious. It’s part of the town’s personality, and it’s fun to lean into a little.
Common questions
Is Sedona worth it if you don’t hike?
Absolutely. The scenery is everywhere, and plenty of the best views need no walking at all.
How many days do I need?
Two to three days is about right for a relaxed visit.
Is the Chapel of the Holy Cross free?
Yes. There’s no entry fee, and donations are welcome.
What’s a Red Rock Pass?
A parking pass for many trailheads and vista points. It’s sold at kiosks and costs a few dollars per day.
Can I see Sedona as a day trip from Phoenix?
You can, but it’s a long day. One night lets you see the sunset and the stars.
