Why Sedona, AZ?

Magical! Sedona, a small town of about 10,000 people, is one of the most beautiful places in America and one of the best places to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This hidden gem, visited by nearly 3 million tourists each year, is a must-see at least once. From its marvelous landscape, red rocks, wonderful weather, and spiritual adventures, Sedona is a gift that keeps on giving.

While there are many things to do in Sedona, I recommend starting with these attractions on your first visit if you want to get a sense of what Sedona has to offer, especially if you're short on time. 

To avoid wasting time going back and forth, I like to plan my itineraries by geographic location. This is what I did during my 7 days in Sedona, but feel free to change things up or replace activities depending on when you visit.

 I would recommend arriving at the Phoenix airport early to allow time to explore Phoenix before driving to Sedona, which is about a 2-hour drive away. While exploring Phoenix, don't forget to try one of its great restaurants.

Dinner in Sedona: Wildflower, a counter-service café serving sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. The interior is also very cute and reasonably priced. Expect to spend about $20. 

Cathedral Rock Trail 

Parking is available on the Baldwin Trail. To access the Cathedral Rock Trail., take the Templeton Trail. The hike from Baldwin Trail is much more scenic as you will pass the Oak Creek on the way. 

* The large wire baskets of rocks mark the trail. Follow those or the people in front of you*

As a moderately difficult hike, I recommend ONLY doing this for the day, but if you feel up to it, do the hike below:

Bell Rock Loop Trail 

This hike requires the purchase of a Red Rock Pass. The pass cost $5 per day or $15 for one week. It is available for purchase at the trailhead fee machine (credit cards only). You can use your America Beautiful Pass instead of purchasing a Red Rock Pass if you have one.

Dinner at Spoke and Wheel Tavern is a must. Very good and reasonably priced.

Soldier Pass Cave Trail

Arrive early on this trail. The gate opens at 8 a.m., but arrive at least 15 minutes early to find parking. There are only about 10-15 parking spaces at the trailhead, which fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

The Devil’s Kitchen, Seven Sacred Pools, and lastly the Secret Cave are all highlights of this hike (pictured). 

Tamaliza Cafe for dinner (Mexican Restaurant). Definitely a hidden gem! Small but cozy, as if you were eating at home.

Chapel of the Holy Cross 

It's a must-see as one of Sedona's most well-known tourist attractions. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is located in the heart of one of the spiritual vortexes which brings gratitude to those who visit it!

Devil’s Bridge Hike 

This, like the Soldier Pass Cave Trail, is a popular hike in Sedona and well worth seeing. Start your hike early, around 6 or 7 a.m. You will have no regrets. My first attempt took 4 to 5 hours, but my second attempt took just under 2 hours, including stops to take pictures and to catch my breath (mostly uphill hike).

You will begin your hike by parking at the Dry Creek Road Parking lot. If you have a 4-wheel car, you can drive to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead from the Dry Creek-Road.

Sedona Original Uptown Mall Plaza 

You deserve to unwind and explore the city's mall after conquering the Devil's Bridge. The mall is not only a great place to buy Sedona gifts for family, friends, and yourself, but it also has some of the best restaurants and store owners. It is worthwhile to go there and explore.

Horseshoe Bend 

It takes about 11 minutes to get there from Antelope Canyon and costs $10 to park. It is also a must see while you’re in the area! 

The Birthing Cave Hike 

This hike was done on December 10, my birthday. It took about 2 hours, most of which was spent sitting in the cave, taking pictures and reflecting on life.

A 2 miles long easy hike trail. The view is breathtaking!

The Long Canyon Trail is the path that leads to the cave. You can park on the side of the road. It fills up quickly, so arrive as early as 7 a.m. 

Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

You cannot visit Sedona without seeing this extremely sacred site.

This is a place for prayer, meditation and experiencing peace. The park is only a 0.3 mile walk away. It's a lovely park with amazing views. The park opens Monday through Sunday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping  Village 

The name Tlaquepaque translates to “best of everything.”

 It is well-known for its galleries, ceramics, pottery and mariachi music. It is located in front of the resort if you stay at Los Abrigados. The shopping center opens from Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. & Friday to Sun 10 a.m. - 6pm. 

Get some hot chocolate and their chocolate cookies from “Cream & cake Couture” while you're there. 

Airport Mesa

This hike is a great spot to catch a sunrise or a sunset. Do the Airport Mesa hike on your last day before returning to Phoenix, which is a 2-hour drive away. 

A place to eat before returning your rental car and heading to the airport in Phoenix is Cien Agaves - Old Town Scottsdale. The food was delicious and reasonably priced.