One Day in Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a popular stop in Arizona, surrounded by scenic red rocks and the vast Coconino National Forest. Only a two hour drive from Phoenix, Sedona is a frequent destination for people looking for a quiet retreat – well known for its “vortexes” of energy meant to facilitate healing and meditation. A short drive in any direction downtown and you’re sure to come across a spa, resort, or palm-reading.
With so much to do in Sedona, it can be hard to identify the best things to do if you are only in Sedona for a short stay! We’ve got your back: our complete one day itinerary is below.
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Here is our list of the best places to visit in Sedona to get a feel for the town in just one day – even better, all of these activities are free!
1. Chapel of the Holy Cross
Away from the busier parts of Sedona, the Chapel of the Holy Cross was built in 1956 in the Coconino National Forest on the outskirts of the Chapel neighborhood. in Sedona. (As a side note, both the Chapel and Oak Creek Village neighborhoods in Sedona can be quieter & cheaper sections of the city. They have beautiful views of the landscape and are frequently overlooked.) An active chapel, mass and confession is hosted on Fridays and Taizé Prayer is hosted on Mondays. Views from the chapel’s hill are some of the best (and easiest) close-ups of the famous red rocks in all of Sedona. As far as Sedona things to do go, this is a must do.
The chapel is open to all visitors and free for entry.
2. Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village
Tlaquepaque is a shopping hub in Sedona full of artisan shops, boutiques, and art galleries – a great place to stop for a souvenir if you’re looking for one. You can also frequently enjoy live music in the square while you’re perusing the shops, and there are a couple of nice places to eat as well. The restaurants are located near the parking lot when you first enter the village. Be sure to put your name in when you first get there as they both typically have a wait, then your table will be ready for you right as you finish your shopping.
Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village is free for entry and open from 10am – 6pm daily.
3. Airport Mesa
Once you’ve seen the red rocks up close at the Chapel of the Holy Cross, drive up to the Airport Mesa plateau to lookout across them from afar. You’ll find an observation point immediately across from the parking lot that looks over downtown Sedona. There is also a moderate hiking loop trail around the mountain if you want to see the landscape from different vantage points. It’s a good way to pack a lot into your day trip to Sedona.
Airport Mesa is a hiking loop that is free for entry. Depending on what events are hosted the day you visit, there may be small parking fees at the top of the mountain.
Where To Stay
Check out these places to stay in Sedona based on your travel style below!
- Luxury: The Outbound Sedona
- Popular: The Sky Ranch Lodge
- Budget: The Sugar Loaf Lodge
Will you be in Sedona for more than just a day? Check out Lost With Lydia’s three day Sedona itinerary for the best tips on what to do in Sedona for an extended stay!
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About the Author: Hi, I’m Jill! I am a biomedical & mechanical engineer who loves traveling during my free time. My hope is to help make it easier for others to plan their dream trips by providing firsthand experience from the places I’ve been! Read More.
I love Sedona! I live in Phoenix, so I visit often. The Chapel of the Holy Cross and Tlaquepaque Arts Village are both great stops. I’ve never hiked Airport Mesa, but I am hoping to soon! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I’ve heard so many amazing things about Sedona and that there is such a spiritual/mystical energy about the area. So badly want to visit!