Our Sedona Adventure: 11 Experiences That Red Rocked Our World

There’s a place in Arizona where the landscape looks like it’s been photoshopped by a cosmic artist with a penchant for red hues and dramatic backdrops. Sedona—a small town with a big reputation for mystic vibes, breathtaking vistas, and more energy vortexes than you can shake a crystal at.

My wife and I decided it was high time to see what all the fuss was about. Armed with hiking boots, an open mind, and a healthy dose of skepticism, we set out to explore Sedona’s best offerings.

A Brief History and Some Solid Facts About Sedona

Sedona was founded in 1902 and named after Sedona Arabella Miller Schnebly, the wife of the city’s first postmaster, because apparently “Schnebly Station” didn’t have the same ring to it. Nestled in the upper Sonoran Desert, Sedona sits at an elevation of 4,350 feet and boasts a population of around 10,000 residents. The town covers 19 square miles but attracts over 3 million visitors annually—proof that size isn’t everything.

The area is renowned for its stunning red sandstone formations, which glow brilliantly at sunrise and sunset, creating a photographer’s dream and a traffic hazard for those who can’t resist snapping pictures from their car windows.

Sedona is also a hotspot—both literally and figuratively—for spiritual seekers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts.

1. Hike: Cathedral Rock Trail

Address: Back O Beyond Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Free (with a $5 parking fee)
Distance from Downtown: Approximately 4 miles south

We kicked off our Sedona adventure with the Cathedral Rock Trail, a steep but relatively short hike that promised rewarding views. The trail is about 1.2 miles round trip, but don’t let the distance fool you—it’s a climb. Armed with water bottles and a questionable level of fitness, we began our ascent.

The trail is well-marked but requires some hand-over-foot scrambling. As we climbed higher, the panoramic views of the surrounding red rocks were nothing short of spectacular. Reaching the saddle between the towering spires, we felt a sense of accomplishment that temporarily masked our burning thighs. We sat there, catching our breath and soaking in the landscape, feeling both insignificant and on top of the world.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Scenery: 5/5
Physical Challenge: 4/5
Spiritual Energy: 3/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 4/5

2. Scenic Drive: Red Rock Scenic Byway (State Route 179)

Address: Starts at the Village of Oak Creek and runs north to Sedona
Price: Free
Distance from Downtown: Starts 7 miles south of Sedona

After challenging ourselves physically, we opted for a more relaxed exploration by driving the Red Rock Scenic Byway. This 7.5-mile stretch of road is officially designated as an “All-American Road,” which is a fancy way of saying it’s really, really pretty.

We cruised along, windows down, marveling at the majestic red rock formations like Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. Every turn offered a new vantage point, each more stunning than the last. We pulled over at multiple viewpoints, joining other tourists in the unspoken competition of who could capture the best photo. Spoiler alert: it’s impossible to take a bad picture here.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Scenery: 5/5
Relaxation Factor: 5/5
Traffic Annoyance: 2/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 4.5/5

3. Pink Jeep Tour: Broken Arrow Tour

Address: 204 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Approximately $129 per person
Distance from Downtown: In the heart of downtown

Sedona’s famous Pink Jeep Tours are hard to miss—literally. These bright pink off-road vehicles are everywhere, so we decided to see what all the fuss was about. We booked the Broken Arrow Tour, touted as the most popular and adventurous option.

Our guide, a jovial fellow named Mark, navigated the rugged terrain with ease, taking us on a roller-coaster ride over rocks and steep inclines that would make a mountain goat think twice. The tour included stops at Submarine Rock and Chicken Point, where we had time to explore and snap photos. Mark’s blend of geology lessons and cheesy jokes added to the experience, making it both educational and entertaining.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Adventure Level: 5/5
Tourist Factor: 4/5
Local Knowledge: 5/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 5/5

4. Chapel of the Holy Cross

Address: 780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Free (donations accepted)
Distance from Downtown: About 4 miles south

Perched precariously on the red rocks, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is an architectural marvel. Designed by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the chapel was completed in 1956 and seems to grow organically from the rocks.

We arrived early to avoid the crowds, and the tranquility was palpable. The chapel’s interior is minimalist, focusing attention outward through the floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the stunning landscape. Regardless of one’s religious leanings, it’s hard not to feel a sense of peace here. We lit a candle, took a moment of reflection, and tried not to think about the engineering feats required to build such a structure.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Architectural Wow-Factor: 5/5
Spiritual Ambiance: 5/5
Crowd Level: 3/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 5/5

5. Restaurant: Elote Café

Address: 350 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Entrées range from $20 to $35
Distance from Downtown: Less than 1 mile north

After a day of exploring, we were famished and headed to Elote Café, a highly recommended spot serving up modern Mexican cuisine. The restaurant does take reservations, so we made one to avoid waiting for a seat.

We did arrive early, giving us time to enjoy a cocktail on the patio while watching the sunset cast a golden glow over the red rocks. Once seated, we indulged in their famous Elote appetizer—fire-roasted corn with spicy mayo, lime, and cotija cheese. It was so good we briefly considered ordering seconds but decided to pace ourselves. The main courses didn’t disappoint either; the smoked pork cheeks melted in our mouths, and the lamb adobo was a perfect blend of spices.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Food Quality: 5/5
Ambiance: 4/5
Wait Time: 2/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 4.5/5

6. Vortex Experience: Airport Mesa Vortex

Address: 483 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Free (with a $3 parking fee)
Distance from Downtown: Approximately 1.5 miles west

No trip to Sedona is complete without experiencing one of its famed energy vortexes. Skeptical but curious, we headed to the Airport Mesa Vortex, considered one of the most accessible. The short hike up offered panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding formations.

We found a quiet spot to sit and “feel” the energy. Did we experience a spiritual awakening? Maybe not. But there’s something undeniably special about sitting atop a mesa, the wind swirling around you, and the vastness of the landscape stretching out below. We left feeling refreshed and oddly content, even if we couldn’t quite pinpoint why.

Debate: The Sedona Vortex: Hoax or Worth the Trip?

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Scenic Views: 5/5
Mystical Energy: 3/5 (subjective, of course)
Accessibility: 5/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 5/5

Watch this video on YouTube

7. Brewery: Oak Creek Brewery & Grill

Address: 336 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Beers around $6, entrées $15 to $25
Distance from Downtown: In the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, less than 1 mile south

After our vortex expedition, we decided a different kind of spirit was in order. Oak Creek Brewery & Grill offered the perfect respite. Located in the charming Tlaquepaque Village, the brewery combines Southwestern flair with Bavarian brewing traditions.

We sampled a flight of their handcrafted beers, with the Village Nut Brown Ale and Horseshoe Hefeweizen standing out as favorites. The menu featured pub classics with a Southwestern twist—we couldn’t resist the green chili cheeseburger. The atmosphere was lively but not overwhelming, making it a great place to unwind and discuss our day’s adventures.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Beer Quality: 4.5/5
Food: 4/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 4/5

8. Tarot Reading: Mystical Bazaar

Address: 1449 W State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Readings start at $45 for 30 minutes
Distance from Downtown: Approximately 2 miles west

Embracing the mystical side of Sedona, we ventured into Mystical Bazaar for a tarot reading. The shop itself was a sensory overload of crystals, incense, and metaphysical books. We booked a session with a reader, who greeted us with a warm smile and an array of tarot decks.

Skepticism in tow, we sat down for our reading. The insights were surprisingly poignant, touching on aspects of our lives that resonated more than we’d expected. Was it generic enough to apply to anyone? Possibly. But it was an intriguing experience that gave us plenty to ponder as we continued our journey.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Mystical Experience: 5/5
Accuracy: 3.5/5
Entertainment Value: 4/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 5/5

9. Winery: Page Springs Cellars

Address: 1500 N Page Springs Rd, Cornville, AZ 86325
Price: Tastings start at $15
Distance from Downtown: About 11 miles south

A short drive from Sedona brought us to Page Springs Cellars, nestled along the banks of Oak Creek. The vineyard offered a different kind of natural beauty, with rows of grapevines set against the backdrop of rolling hills.

We opted for a wine tasting flight, sampling a variety of reds and whites produced on-site. The staff was knowledgeable, guiding us through each pour with descriptions that bordered on poetic. We strolled through the vineyard, glasses in hand, feeling a world away from the desert landscapes we’d been exploring.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Wine Quality: 4.5/5
Scenic Setting: 5/5
Relaxation Factor: 5/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 4/5

10. Spa Day: Sedona New Day Spa

Address: 3004 W State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Massages starting at $120
Distance from Downtown: Approximately 3 miles west

After days of hiking and exploring, we treated ourselves to some pampering at Sedona New Day Spa. The ambiance was immediately calming, with soft music and the subtle scent of essential oils.

We each chose a massage—my partner opted for the Aromatherapy Massage, while I went for the Native Hot Stone Massage. The therapists were professional and attentive, melting away the tension we’d accumulated. By the end, we felt rejuvenated and ready to tackle more of what Sedona had to offer.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Relaxation Factor: 5/5
Service Quality: 5/5
Wallet Impact: 3/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 4.5/5

11. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

Address: 2650 Pueblo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336
Price: Free (donations appreciated)
Distance from Downtown: About 3 miles west

Seeking a quiet place for reflection, we visited the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park. This Buddhist stupa is set on 14 acres of beautiful desert terrain, offering a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle.

We walked clockwise around the stupa, as tradition dictates, focusing on our intentions and the peaceful surroundings. The park also features prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and benches strategically placed for meditation or simply soaking in the tranquility. It was a soul-soothing experience that added a meaningful dimension to our trip.

Sedona Vibes Scale:

Spiritual Ambiance: 5/5
Scenic Beauty: 4/5
Crowd Level: 2/5
Overall Sedona-ness: 5/5

Our Recommended Three-Day Itinerary

Basecamp: We suggest staying in or near downtown Sedona to maximize your time and minimize driving.

Day 1: Exploration and Introduction

Morning: Start with the Cathedral Rock Trail hike to energize your day.
Lunch: Grab a bite at a local café downtown.
Afternoon: Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross for some architectural awe.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Elote Café (arrive early to avoid long waits).

Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning: Take the Pink Jeep Broken Arrow Tour for some off-road excitement.
Lunch: Head to Oak Creek Brewery & Grill for hearty food and craft beer.
Afternoon: Unwind at Sedona New Day Spa with a relaxing treatment.
Evening: Catch the sunset at Airport Mesa Vortex.

Day 3: Mystical and Scenic Farewell

Morning: Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway, stopping at viewpoints along the way.
Lunch: Enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic pullouts.
Afternoon: Visit Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park for reflection.
Late Afternoon: Experience a tarot reading at Mystical Bazaar.
Evening: Take a short trip to Page Springs Cellars for a wine tasting to cap off your trip.

We’ll Be Heading Back to Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a place that defies simple description—a blend of natural beauty, spiritual energy, and human creativity. Whether you’re scaling red rock formations, seeking spiritual insights, or simply enjoying good food and wine, Sedona offers a unique experience that lingers long after you’ve left. Our journey was a mix of the expected and the surprising, leaving us both satisfied and eager to return.

So pack your hiking boots, your open mind, and perhaps a crystal or two if that’s your thing. Sedona awaits, ready to show you a side of Arizona you won’t soon forget.

Pro Tip: Does it Snow in Sedona?