Sedona Bucket List Adventures: Must-Do Experiences for Every Traveler
Sedona, Arizona is one of those rare destinations where natural beauty, adventure, and spirituality intersect. The moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by towering red rocks, whispering pines, and golden light that seems to glow from within the earth itself. It’s no wonder travelers often describe Sedona as a place that feels both otherworldly and grounding.
If you’re planning a trip, this bucket list highlights the absolute best things to do in Sedona, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Whether you’re chasing adventure, seeking tranquility, or hoping to see the land from every possible angle, Sedona delivers an unforgettable experience.
1. Hike to Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock stands as one of Sedona’s most photographed and hiked landmarks. The trail, although short, rewards hikers with panoramic views that feel larger than life. The climb is steep in sections, requiring both hands at times, but reaching the saddle point gives you one of the most breathtaking vantage points in Arizona.
Go early in the morning or around sunset when the air is cooler and the light reflects in deep amber hues across the sandstone walls. Many visitors pause here to meditate or simply absorb the view. It’s not just a hike; it’s a moment of connection with Sedona’s landscape that you’ll carry long after you descend.
2. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
Built directly into the red rocks, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is both a feat of architecture and a symbol of harmony between man and nature. Designed in the 1950s by sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the chapel rises seamlessly from the desert landscape.
Inside, the quiet sanctuary and floor-to-ceiling windows offer a space for reflection while framing an awe-inspiring view of the valley below. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s a peaceful stop that captures Sedona’s essence — beauty, faith, and serenity intertwined.
3. Explore Oak Creek Canyon
A drive through Oak Creek Canyon is an essential part of any Sedona itinerary. Often called the “Grand Canyon’s little cousin,” this 12-mile stretch of winding highway follows the creek beneath towering cliffs of red and white stone.
In the fall, the canyon comes alive with color as cottonwoods and maples turn shades of gold and crimson. Stop at Slide Rock State Park for a playful experience in warmer months. The smooth sandstone formations create natural water slides that thrill kids and adults alike. In cooler weather, the canyon transforms into a quiet retreat, perfect for scenic drives or creekside picnics.
4. Experience Sedona’s Energy Vortexes
Sedona is world-famous for its energy vortexes — places believed to hold heightened spiritual or healing energy. Four main sites draw visitors: Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon.
Even if you’re not drawn to the metaphysical, these vortex spots are worth visiting for their unmatched beauty and panoramic views. Locals recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset when the light intensifies the red rock glow and the air feels calm and still. Many travelers describe a sense of grounding or renewal after spending time here, which makes it an ideal place to recharge between adventures.
5. Shop and Dine in Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Tlaquepaque (pronounced “Tuh-LAH-kee-pah-kee”) feels like stepping into a piece of Old Mexico nestled in the heart of Arizona. Cobblestone walkways wind between stucco arches, vine-covered walls, and courtyards filled with fountains and shade trees.
This arts village is home to galleries, jewelry stores, and boutiques showcasing the work of local artists. It’s the perfect place to find a handcrafted souvenir, enjoy live music, or relax with a glass of Arizona wine. Try one of the local restaurants for lunch or dinner — many feature outdoor patios where you can dine under the stars surrounded by twinkling lights.
6. Discover the Magic of Stargazing
Sedona’s Dark Sky designation means that its night skies are among the clearest and least light-polluted in the country. When the sun sets, the desert sky bursts to life with constellations, shooting stars, and the glowing band of the Milky Way.
You can join a guided stargazing tour with telescopes and astronomer-led commentary, or simply head out to a dark trailhead like Dry Creek Road or Airport Mesa after dusk. Bring a blanket, a warm drink, and a sense of wonder. On a cloudless night, Sedona’s sky feels infinite.
7. Take a Scenic Drive on Red Rock Loop Road
For travelers short on time, the Red Rock Loop Road offers incredible views with minimal effort. This short scenic drive winds through the base of Cathedral Rock and the surrounding canyons, offering perfect photo stops and easy access to several hiking trails.
Pull over at Crescent Moon Picnic Site, one of the best places to watch the sunset. The reflection of Cathedral Rock in Oak Creek is one of the most iconic images of Sedona — a moment that perfectly captures the quiet beauty of this landscape.
8. End Your Adventure with the Red Rock Royale Helicopter + Jeep Combo
After exploring Sedona by foot, car, and starlight, there’s one experience that truly completes your bucket list — the Red Rock Royale Helicopter + Jeep Combo Adventure. Offered exclusively by Apex Air Tours in collaboration with Sedona Jeep Tours, this adventure combines the thrill of flight with the rugged beauty of the desert trails below.
Your journey begins with a 20-minute helicopter tour over Sedona’s most famous formations, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Boynton Canyon. As you soar over canyons and spires, you’ll see the land unfold in patterns of shadow and light that few people ever experience. From above, you’ll spot ancient cliff dwellings and remote landscapes untouched by roads or crowds.
When you land, your guide from Sedona Jeep Tours will meet you right at the Apex Air base to continue the adventure on the ground. You’ll climb aboard a two-hour off-road Jeep tour through the Colorado Plateau, exploring rugged trails, red rock ridges, and secret viewpoints. Along the way, you’ll learn about the geology, Native American history, and folklore that shaped this land.
This combo is designed for travelers who want to see everything — the panoramic perspective of the sky and the immersive detail of the desert floor. Every moment is guided by seasoned pilots and local experts who share not just facts, but stories that bring Sedona’s landscape to life.
Tour Highlights:
- Duration: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours total
- Price: Starting around $424 per person
- Location: 1225 Airport Road, Sedona, AZ
- Veterans, active military, and first responders receive 10% off
- Group and repeat-customer discounts available
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply crossing off a long-held dream, the Red Rock Royale captures Sedona’s essence in one seamless adventure.
9. Make Sedona Yours
From the moment you arrive, Sedona has a way of slowing time. The air feels cleaner, the colors more vivid, and the pace of life softer. Whether you’re hiking Cathedral Rock at dawn, exploring vortexes, or hovering above the desert in a helicopter, each experience adds a layer to your connection with this place.
The best bucket lists aren’t just about checking boxes — they’re about creating memories that linger. And few memories compare to watching Sedona’s red rocks from the sky, then tracing their ancient paths by Jeep.
If Sedona is on your list of dream destinations, make this the year you experience it from every angle. Reserve your Red Rock Royale Helicopter + Jeep Combo Adventure and see why it’s the ultimate way to complete your Sedona bucket list.