Sedona, Arizona Travel Guide

Discover Sedona: A stunning blend of red rock landscapes, spiritual energy, and vibrant arts, making it a top destination for adventure and relaxation in Arizona.

Nestled amid the striking red rock formations of Arizona, Sedona is a traveler’s dream. This city is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and spiritual energy. The landscape is a canvas of towering cliffs, pine forests, and clear blue skies, making it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike. Sedona offers visitors a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Hiking trails like the Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock offer stunning vistas and opportunities for exploration. For those seeking tranquility, the numerous spas and wellness centers provide rejuvenating experiences amid serene surroundings. The city’s vortex sites are believed to be centers of spiritual energy, attracting people from all over the world. The downtown area is charming, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants. The Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village is a must-visit, showcasing local craftsmanship in a beautiful setting. Whether you're savoring Southwestern cuisine, enjoying a wine tasting, or attending a local festival, Sedona’s vibrant culture is sure to captivate you. With its unique mix of natural splendor and cultural richness, Sedona promises an unforgettable journey.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sedona.

Best time to visit: March to May or September to November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Take a jeep tour: It’s a great way to explore the rugged terrain and learn about the geology and history.
Stay hydrated: The dry desert climate can be deceiving. Always carry water, especially during hikes.
Visit vortex sites: These unique locations are said to have spiritual energy. Whether you're a believer or not, they offer spectacular views.
Plan for sunset: The red rocks glow beautifully at sunset, making it the best time for photography.
Check local events: Sedona hosts many festivals and art fairs, which can add a special touch to your visit.

Explore Sedona: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Sedona

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Chapel of the Holy Cross

Discover the serene Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona, a breathtaking blend of architecture and nature that inspires reflection and awe.

4.8

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Experience the tranquil beauty of the Chapel of the Holy Cross, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking red rock scenery in Sedona, Arizona.

4.8

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Experience the ancient cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people at Montezuma Castle National Monument, a must-visit historical site in Arizona.

4.7

Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout

Experience the breathtaking panoramic views at Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout, a must-visit destination in Arizona's stunning red rock country.

4.7

Best landmarks in Sedona

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Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout

Discover the stunning vistas of Sedona at the Airport Scenic Lookout, where nature's beauty meets breathtaking landscapes in Arizona.

4.7

Pink Jeep Tours

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sedona through thrilling and educational jeep tours with Pink Jeep Tours, the ultimate adventure for nature enthusiasts.

4.8

Montezuma Well

Explore Montezuma Well, a stunning historical landmark in Rimrock, AZ, showcasing ancient ruins and breathtaking natural beauty.

4.8

L'Auberge de Sedona

Discover unparalleled luxury and natural beauty at L'Auberge de Sedona, a premier resort offering exquisite accommodations, dining, and rejuvenating spa services.

4.5

Best restaurants in Sedona

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Coffee Pot Restaurant

Discover Sedona's Coffee Pot Restaurant - your go-to breakfast spot for delicious omelettes and stunning red rock views.

4.5

Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Latin American cuisine at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill in Sedona's stunning landscape.

4.4

The Hudson

Experience exquisite American cuisine with stunning views at The Hudson in Sedona – where every meal is a feast for the senses.

4.6

Javelina Cantina

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Javelina Cantina, where delicious dishes meet stunning Sedona views.

4.4

Best bars in Sedona

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Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

Experience culinary excellence at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill in Sedona, where Latin flavors meet stunning views for a memorable dining experience.

4.4

The Hudson

Experience the best of American cuisine at The Hudson in Sedona, where stunning views meet exquisite flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits

Discover the flavors of the American West at Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits, a beloved Sedona destination for food lovers and adventurers.

4.4

Canyon Breeze Restaurant

Experience the flavors of America at Canyon Breeze Restaurant, where delicious cuisine meets the stunning beauty of Sedona's red rocks.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Sedona

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Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits

Experience the rich flavors of the American Southwest at Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits in Sedona, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.

4.4

Mooney's Irish Pub & Burger Bar - Sedona

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mooney's Irish Pub & Burger Bar, where Irish charm meets delicious burgers in the heart of Sedona.

4.3

Vino Di Sedona

Discover the enchanting Vino Di Sedona, where exquisite wines, craft beers, and live entertainment unite in a cozy lounge setting.

4.6

Sound Bites Grill, Sedona AZ

Experience Sedona's vibrant dining scene at Sound Bites Grill, where delicious organic cuisine meets live music in a stunning setting.

4.1

Best shops in Sedona

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Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Experience the charm of Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, where shopping, art, and dining harmoniously blend in Sedona's stunning red rock landscape.

4.6

Hillside Sedona Shopping Center

Discover the charm of Hillside Sedona Shopping Center, a unique blend of art, shopping, and dining nestled in Sedona’s breathtaking landscape.

4.4

Sinagua Plaza

Discover unique shopping and local cuisine at Sinagua Plaza in Sedona, a vibrant destination surrounded by stunning red rock landscapes.

4.5

The Shops At Pinon Pointe

Discover unique shops and breathtaking views at The Shops At Pinon Pointe in Sedona, a perfect blend of culture, art, and nature.

4.5

Explore Sedona on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Sedona, mapped for you.

Sedona Essentials

Sedona is located in the northern Verde Valley region of Arizona, United States. The nearest major airports are Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG). From Phoenix, Sedona is approximately a 2-hour drive north via Interstate 17. From Flagstaff, it's about a 45-minute drive south on State Route 89A. Shuttle services, rental cars, and private car services are available from both airports.
Sedona is best explored by car due to its expansive natural landscape and numerous trailheads. Rental cars are available at nearby airports. Within the town, the Sedona Trolley offers guided tours, and the Verde Lynx bus service provides public transportation between Sedona and Cottonwood. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Biking is a popular option for the more adventurous, with several rental shops in town.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. ATMs are available throughout Sedona for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for use at smaller businesses, local markets, and for tipping.
Sedona is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's important to stay vigilant and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and always secure your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying aware of your surroundings is always wise. Be cautious on hiking trails, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Sedona has a local police department and several medical facilities, including the Verde Valley Medical Center. Having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is recommended. Pharmacies are available in town for over-the-counter medications and minor health issues.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy hiking shoes, especially if you plan to explore outdoor trails. Avoid overly formal attire unless attending a special event. Religion: Do respect local spiritual practices and sacred sites, including the numerous vortex sites and Native American heritage areas. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A firm handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southwestern cuisine and organic food offerings. Don't be overly critical of local dishes, as it might be considered impolite.
To experience Sedona like a local, visit the weekly farmers' markets for fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with residents and ask for recommendations on lesser-known hiking trails and viewpoints. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in a guided jeep tour to explore Sedona's rugged landscape. For a unique experience, attend a local art gallery opening or a Native American cultural event.

When is the best time to visit Sedona?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Sedona

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Sedona. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [hah-dee]
- GoodbyeAdios
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pleez/yur wel-kum]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyoos mee/sor-ee]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doo-in]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fahyn. and yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [eye dohnt get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [eye'd like tuh see thee men-yoo, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [eye dohnt eet meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [eye wood like tuh pay, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go away!
  [go away]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [call thee puh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call uh dok]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [eye'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [eye'm sik]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [eye'd like tuh bye]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [eye'm just look-in]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [how much iz it]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [thats too pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya lower the price?
  [kan yah low-er thee pryce]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its wun oh-klok]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [haf past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yess-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [toh-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [toh-mor-row]
- 11
  [wun]
- 22
  [too]
- 33
  [tree]
- 44
  [for]
- 55
  [five]
- 66
  [six]
- 77
  [seven]
- 88
  [ate]
- 99
  [nine]
- 1010
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wheres uh/thee]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats thee ad-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yah show mee (on thee map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens thee nekst (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-et (to)]

History of Sedona

Long before European settlers arrived, Sedona was home to Native American tribes, most notably the Sinagua people. They established a thriving community around 600 AD, constructing intricate cliff dwellings and multi-room pueblos. Evidence of their sophisticated agricultural practices and trade networks can still be seen in the ruins at sites like Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monument.
The Sinagua people thrived in the Sedona area up until around 1400 AD, after which they mysteriously abandoned their settlements. The reasons for their departure remain a subject of speculation, with theories ranging from prolonged drought to social and political upheaval. The Hopi and other tribes who moved into the region later on hold ancestral ties to the Sinagua.
European explorers first made their way into the Verde Valley in the late 16th century. Spanish expeditions, led by figures like Antonio de Espejo, sought to chart the territory and discover riches. These early incursions laid the groundwork for subsequent settlement and missionary efforts in the region.
The late 19th century saw the arrival of the first Anglo-American settlers. Pioneers like John James Thompson were drawn to the fertile land and water sources of Oak Creek. These early settlers established farms, orchards, and ranches, marking the beginning of Sedona's agricultural heritage. The town's name itself comes from Sedona Arabella Miller Schnebly, whose husband, Theodore Schnebly, was one of the town's early postmasters.
Sedona's stunning red rock formations began to attract attention in the early 20th century. The completion of the first automobile road into the area in 1908 made it more accessible. By the 1920s, Sedona had become a popular destination for vacationers and artists, drawn by its natural beauty and mild climate. This laid the foundation for its development as a tourist hub.
In the mid-20th century, Sedona became a popular filming location for Hollywood westerns. Films such as 'Broken Arrow' (1950) and 'Johnny Guitar' (1954) showcased Sedona's dramatic landscapes, bringing national attention to the area. This period saw a boom in local businesses catering to the film industry and tourists alike.
By the latter part of the 20th century, Sedona had garnered a reputation as a center for New Age spirituality. The discovery of several 'vortex' sites—areas believed to possess unique energy fields—drew a diverse array of spiritual seekers, healers, and artists. This cultural shift has made Sedona a unique blend of traditional Western and alternative spiritual practices.
In recent decades, Sedona has faced challenges related to growth and environmental preservation. Efforts to protect its unique landscapes have led to the establishment of numerous parks and conservation areas. Today, Sedona balances its roles as a vibrant tourist destination, a gateway to outdoor adventure, and a community deeply connected to its historical roots and natural surroundings.