Family-Friendly Activities in Sedona: Fun for All Ages
Sedona is a paradise for families looking to explore stunning landscapes, engage in outdoor adventures, and create unforgettable memories together. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, engaging activities, or kid-friendly dining options, Sedona has something for every age. From river rafting to cowboy dinner shows, this guide will help you plan the ultimate family trip to Sedona.
Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family
For families that love the outdoors, Sedona is a playground of natural wonders. Slide Rock State Park is one of the best places to cool off in the Arizona heat. The natural rock water slides and swimming holes provide hours of fun, while the scenic beauty of Oak Creek Canyon makes it an unforgettable experience.
Another fantastic way to experience Sedona’s landscape is on two wheels. Thunder Mountain Bikes offers family-friendly bike rentals and guided tours, allowing you to explore the red rock terrain at your own pace. For those who prefer a more adrenaline-pumping experience, booking an ATV tour through Sedona’s rugged backcountry is a must. Many local tour operators provide guided experiences suitable for beginners and families with kids.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, Sedona Adventure Tours offers river rafting and tubing excursions along the Verde River. These gentle floats are perfect for families with young children, combining adventure with relaxation in a picturesque setting.
Aerial Views and Stargazing
For a breathtaking perspective of Sedona, there’s nothing quite like a helicopter tour with us at Apex Air. Seeing the red rock formations from above is a thrilling experience for the whole family, offering a bird’s-eye view of some of Sedona’s most famous landmarks.
At night, don’t miss the chance to witness Sedona’s star-filled skies. Sedona Stargazing Tour provides guided stargazing experiences where families can learn about constellations, planets, and deep-space objects using high-powered telescopes. The lack of city lights makes Sedona one of the best places for stargazing in the country.
Dining Experiences the Whole Family Will Love
Finding family-friendly dining in Sedona is easy, with plenty of great options for every taste. Red Rock Cafe is a local favorite known for its hearty breakfasts and famous cinnamon rolls, making it a great way to start your day before heading out for adventures.
For lunch or dinner, Mesa Grill Sedona offers delicious American cuisine with a unique bonus—the restaurant is located near the Sedona Airport, providing kids (and adults!) with an exciting view of small planes taking off and landing.
For a bit of Western-themed fun, head to The Blazin’ M Ranch, where you’ll enjoy a chuckwagon-style dinner and a live cowboy show featuring music, comedy, and Wild West antics. It’s an unforgettable experience that kids and parents alike will enjoy.
If you’re craving something sweet, a visit to Sedona Fudge Company is a must. Their handmade fudge, caramel apples, and chocolates make for the perfect treat after a day of exploring.
Shopping and Entertainment
For a mix of shopping and entertainment, take the family to Pinon Pointe, a beautiful shopping center with a variety of boutique stores, restaurants, and breathtaking views of Sedona’s red rock formations. You’ll find unique souvenirs, locally made art, and great spots to grab a snack or meal.
Day Trip to the Grand Canyon
No trip to Northern Arizona is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon, just a scenic two-hour drive from Sedona. Families can explore the South Rim’s many viewpoints, take a short hike along the Rim Trail, and visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to learn about the park’s history and geology. For an extra special experience, consider booking a Grand Canyon Railway ride, where kids can enjoy an old-fashioned train journey complete with entertainment and historical reenactments.We recommend either getting back to Sedona before dark, or staying overnight at a lodge nearby, as we don’t recommend driving at night back to Sedona–wildlife will be out and about!
Final Thoughts
Sedona is a dream destination for families, offering an endless variety of activities that blend adventure, education, and entertainment. Whether you’re hiking through stunning landscapes, rafting down the river, enjoying a cowboy dinner show, or taking in the beauty of the night sky, there’s something for every family to enjoy. With so many experiences to choose from, your family’s trip to Sedona is sure to be one to remember!