65 Sedona Travel Tips! {What to Know BEFORE You Go}

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Before you head to Sedona, make sure you don’t miss the best parts! Check out these Best Sedona Travel Tips & Things to Do in Northern Arizona!

Planning a trip to Sedona, Arizona? Check out these Best Sedona Travel Tips I’ve put together just for you… plus everything you need to know BEFORE you go!

You’ll learn where to find the Best Hidden Gems, Secluded Hikes, Breathtaking Views, and most Fun Things to Do!

Sunny Sedona is a quaint little community surrounded by mountains of rugged red rocks… and it’s one of my favorite spots to visit! It’s beautiful, unique, and has a Southwest charm all its own. With fun western shops in town and breathtaking hikes on the outskirts, it has something for everyone! Plus… it’s just a short 1 hour and 40 minute drive from this gorgeous red rock country down to Phoenix, so you can visit two fun locations on the same trip!

So are you ready for my top Sedona Travel Tips?? Here’s my list of the Best Things to do in Sedona, Arizona on a Budget…

Related:

75 Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona

Best Sedona Travel Tips

Planning Your Trip to Sedona, Arizona?

You’ll absolutely love your visit to Sedona, with the gorgeous rugged rocks and beauty unlike any other spot I’ve ever seen.

When to Go to Sedona Arizona:

Carolyn writes: “The very best time to come to Sedona is late September or early October. In the winter we have snow and mud. Summer is hot and humid with thunderstorms often. Spring can be windy and dusty and goes hot and cold.”

Where to Stay in Sedona Arizona:

Cinnie writes: “Enchantment Resort is king, but there are quite a few fun places to stay.”

Jan writes: “The Whispering Creek B&B is a fabulous place!”

Amy writes: “I highly recommend. I stayed at The Element. It’s a Marriott hotel. I used my government discount. It’s worth the little extra because it’s close to shopping and restaurants and they have a great hot breakfast. There is a couture burger place next door and a pizza place just past that. Both are fabulous.”

Kelly writes: “L’Auberge de Sedona was such a beautiful and charming place to stay!”

Sarah writes: “The Red Agave Resort was amazing! Wonderful people and beautiful, private chalets! Highly recommend!”

Jaimie writes: “Junipine Resort! They have hot tubs and everything!”

Danielle writes: “We stay at hotels that provide breakfast. We take fruit, bread and sandwich fixings, and snacks for daily outings.”

Letha writes: “Stay where breakfast is included, have a light lunch and modest dinner… carry an ice chest for drinks and snacks.”

Wondering how to plan the perfect hotel stay for your next vacation? It’s so much easier than you think! Don’t book your next hotel without knowing these secrets shared by Hotel Staff and Frequent Travelers…

75 Hotel Hacks Everyone Should Know

In addition to hotels, consider AirBNB’s or VRBO.com. They have so many vacation rentals listed by owner, and are a great way to find nice lodging that is less expensive than the luxury resorts.

Shelly said: “I like to find houses or condos on VRBO.com, then contact the owner directly. I then ask if they will offer me a discount for booking with them directly, and they almost always will. They no longer have to pay the VRBO fees, and they pass those savings on to me!”

How to Slash the Cost of Your Next Trip Using VRBO

Or… if you’re in the mood to camp…

Stay the Night at Manzanita Campground in Oak Creek Canyon

In the mood to go Camping? Stay at Manzanita Campground near Slide Rock State Park in Oak Creek Canyon… it’s got incredible access to the flowing creek! We loved our stay there, and spent hours just relaxing by the beautiful Oak Creek with our feet in the icy cold water. It’s so gorgeous and peaceful!

Dana writes: “Sedona is fantastic and so beautiful. I usually stay outside the city to get slightly cheaper lodging but by March it’s tolerable to camp up Oak Creek or other campgrounds.”

Jessica writes: “We stayed in Sedona at a tiny little camping spot called Elks Lodge for a few days in a converted camper! Great views!”

Be sure to check out these Camping Menu Tips to take your outdoor meals to a whole new level!

Camping Tips and Tricks for Beginners

What to See and Do in Sedona AZ:

Everywhere direction you look in Sedona, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. From the colorful rocky terrain to the vivid blue skies, you’ll want your camera handy at all times!

Visit Cathedral Rock at Red Rock Crossing / Crescent Moon Ranch

Get your million dollar pictures of Cathedral Rock at Red Rock Crossing / Crescent Moon Ranch. This historic ranch is the perfect spot to spend the day! There are easy trails, access to the creek, picnic tables, and the views of Cathedral Rock are incredible! It’s so beautiful I’ve often seen couples having their wedding photos done there with the gorgeous views as the backdrop!

Picnic at Red Rock State Park

Now go enjoy a walk, then play at the Creek at Red Rock State Park. It’s such a beautiful spot to spend a day!

This is always a lovely spot for a picnic lunch! There are several picnic tables and barbecues scattered throughout, so bring everything you need to build your own sandwiches, or some burgers and hot dogs to grill up, and you’ll be in no rush to leave.

Just note: pets are not allowed at this park, so if you’re traveling with Fido, you’ll want to skip this one and move on to the next.

Stop for Sabrina’s Ice Cream on Main Street

In the heart of Uptown Sedona, you’ll find the Canyon Breeze Restaurant. Out in front is Sabrina’s Ice Cream, with over 15 yummy flavors. Grab some ice cream, then walk past the restaurant to the back deck, and enjoy your dessert with the most amazing 360 degree views of Sedona!

Hike Cathedral Rock to Escape the Crowds

Now if you’re a big hiker… you’ll definitely want to hike up the back side of Cathedral Rock. You’ll be rewarded with out-of-this world views, but warning… this hike is not for the faint of heart. It starts out easy on the sandstone, but gets really steep at the end. Whatever you do, just remember to bring your Hiking Shoes!

Stephanie writes: “Climb cathedral rock. Bring courage.”

REI Discounts {10 Secrets To Save Big on Hiking Gear}

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

Make sure you visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross. It’s such a pretty little church nestled in the rocks, and if you hit it at the right time, you’ll even be able to pop inside!

Christine writes: “For sure the chapel. It will bring you to tears.”

Tammy writes: “Chapel of the Holy Cross is not to be missed! Such a moving experience. It is a climb, so be prepared.”

Stretch Your Legs at Montezuma’s Castle {Indian Ruins}

Have you ever visited Indian Ruins? They’re incredible, and a must-do when visiting Sedona! My favorite is Montezuma’s Castle {just south of Sedona}. You’ll be able to walk along a short, paved, approx. 1/3 mile trail and gaze up at some of the most incredible ruins nestled in the cliff! The ancient cliff dwellings {now around 900 years old} are just stunning!

Have a Wild Ride at Slide Rock State Park {Natural Waterslides}

Are you ready for the time of your life? It’s time to get wet at Slide Rock State Park. This place is crazy…. basically it’s like natural waterslides formed in the rocks. Get ready for some thrills and lots of laughs! You may want to wear some water shoes!

Terry writes: “Slide rock is fun in the summer months.”

Wendy writes: “Swimming in the natural rock slide. 30 plus years later our kids still talk about it.”

More Budget Sedona Travel Tips…

Are you ready for even more Sedona Travel Tips to visit Sedona on a Budget? Check out these tips share by your Frugal Friends…

Wendy writes: “Sedona is the best place on Earth! Red rock country!”

Terri writes: “Definitely a Pink Jeep tour. Ask for the Broken Arrow Tour. Fun! Chapel of the Holy Cross, Tlaquepaque, Crescent Moon Ranch, take a drive from Upper Red Rock Loop Road to Lower Red Rock loop Road, beautiful views. For lodging it depends. Uptown is crowded, West Sedona not as much. The Enchantment is about 20 min. From W. Sedona. I live here! Beautiful views everywhere!”

Danielle writes: “Sedona has great hiking (Red Rock and Bell Rock).”

Cathy writes: “Definitely hike Devil’s Bridge!! AMAZING!”

Ruth writes: “Get to the trail heads early. Parking lots fill up fast. Like at least 8:00 am.”

Karen writes: “Definitely check the hiking trails ahead of time to see if there is snow on them or not. I was surprised to find snow on a beautiful sunshiny day.”

Jeanelle writes: “Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is the best place to go, and make sure you go to the chapel in the rocks.”

Tammy writes: “Go to some art museums. Go to Tlaquepaque for the huge old trees and great shopping.”

Christine writes: “We took an ATV trip to the top of a mountain which was a blast.”

Kates writes: “We took an open-air bi-plane ride over the canyons, there was wine involved. The next day we went on a Jeep tour that was awesome.”

Nancy writes: “Do a Pink tour jeep and golf.”

Cindy writes: “Pink Jeep tour is a MUST!!!!! Book as soon as you can once you make trips plans!!!!! It fills up fast. And go for the rugged trail!! It’s absolutely worth every single penny!!!!!!!”

Claudia writes: “Jeep tour is great. But the hiking was even better. Enjoy!”

Amanda writes: “I did a hot air balloon ride over Sedona and it was absolutely amazing!”

Annette writes: “The helicopter tour in the red rocks was the highlight of the trip.”

Lia writes: “Rent the razors and go for it, do a jeep tour, get a map and explore.”

Rhea writes: “If you’re there in summer MUST go to Grasshopper Point and Crescent Moon”

Barbara writes: “Catch the sunset at Airport Mesa. It’s a location that provides the most beautiful sunsets ever.”

Pam writes: “Go to Jerome, a cute little mining town near by.”

Kayla writes: “Head towards Flagstaff, and check out the Subway cave!”

Stacy writes: “Drive to Out of Africa Wildlife Park.”

Where to Eat in Sedona:

Sienna writes: “There’s a McDonald’s up there with a non yellow arch…. Only one in the world.”

Becca writes: “The Sedona Pizza and Pasta Company is delicious and next to a bunch of shops. You can eat on their patio and people watch (that’s always fun).”

Lindsey writes: “El Rincon in Tlaquepaque is the best Mexican restaurant.”

Tianna writes: “Eat at the Wildflower Bread Co. Get the Lemon Ricotta pancakes. They are to die for.”

Score Free Coffee at Starbucks in Sedona! With all the fresh air, sunshine, and play time… you just might be needing a caffeine fix! There are several Starbucks locations around Sedona, so check this out…

Starbucks Money Saving Hacks

Mary writes: “Elote restaurant is the best!”

Kim writes: “Sedona Memories Sandwiches. They make their own bread and have the freshest ingredients. Best sandwich I’ve ever had.”

Kates writes: “We had lunch creekside at L’ Auberge, (a most romantic restaurant).”

Helen writes: “Strangely enough one of our best meals was at the little airport cafe up on the mountain. It’s called Mesa Grill.”

Kimberly writes: “Eat at The Hudson restaurant.”

Tammy writes: “Cucina Rustica is a great, beautiful restaurant. Famous Pizza is so freaking good. The Hudson is great! We love it for lunch on the patio…the view is spectacular!”

How To Do Sedona On A Budget:

To keep the trip fun and frugal, the first thing you’ll want to do is start stashing extra money away and setting it aside in your ‘Sedona Trip Fund’. Need to increase your travel fund stash? Make some extra money on the side in your free time! Check this out…

25+ Side Hustles Ideas

How to Get Cheap Flights to Arizona:

Wondering how to get cheap flights? My favorite trick is to load up on free mileage points and airline gift cards, then use them to dramatically cut the cost on airfare! I’ve scored so many free flights this way! Are you ready to start earning your free airlines miles and gift cards? Here’s what you need to do…

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More Budget Sedona Travel Tips:

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How To Save On Gas {20 Genius Hacks}

Military Discounts for Travel

How to Travel for Free or Cheap {20 Brilliant Budget Travel Hacks}

What To Pack for Sedona Arizona:

Don’t board your plane without these 19 Carry On Must Haves! They’re a lifesaver on long flights!

Shop smarter when you use these these clever Cabela’s Sale Hacks {Secrets to Save BIG!}

Use these 20 Bass Pro Shop Shopping Hacks to get ready!

Bug Repellent to keep all those bugs away. Be extra frugal when you try one of these 17 DIY Bug Repellent Tricks. Having some repellent handy is a must when you stop to have a snack on the trail. You really don’t want your food to make you too popular with the flying insect world!

Isn’t Sedona beautiful? I know you’ll love your trip! Now that you’ve loaded up on Sedona Travel Tips, are you ready to explore more fun Southwest destinations?? Check these out…