Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Sedona

MaryEllenM27

Buy an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass. It works for the Grand Canyon and all of the National Monuments you may be visiting near Sedona and Grand Canyon (but not for State Parks or independently run areas like Red Rock). It also works as a Sedona Parking pass.

RedRox🏜

Don’t drive in darkness. Dark sky ordinances, absence of street lighting and vast open spaces make it darker than most people are used to. Roads are mostly two lanes, but some have little or no shoulder, so no room to swerve or pull off if you need to. And yes, lots of wildlife, as small as squirrels and skunks, and others larger than most passenger vehicles.

dbmove

Make sure you have something to put your boots in after hiking as the red dirt is crazy difficult to get out of fabrics. I also wouldn't wear my favorite pair of socks or pants in case you do slip and fall.

LovemyAcura🌵

Don't forget to bring a hat to shade your face, sunglasses, and sunscreen. While here, drink lots of water to keep hydrated in our dry heat. Turn on the oven and open the door when hot — that's what dry heat feels like! It's not wet and sticky like heat with humidity elsewhere.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

Oliver

The red rocks of Sedona are truly magical.

Fred A

Red Rock State Park in Sedona is like the Grand Canyon turned inside out! Stunning views and great areas to hike.

Skeripski

Driving to Sedona you cannot avoid the beauty and awe of God. The sun changes the scenery so often you can't take pictures fast enough.

generufer

Sedona is the most beautiful spot in the whole USA and there is so much to do and see there.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

The closest international airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, located about 2-hour drive away. Shuttles run to Sedona, but most visitors opt to hire a car and drive themselves. Leave yourself plenty of time, as you’ll want to stop and admire the views along the way.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting the United States from overseas, use the government’s Visa Wizard to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (March to May) or fall (Sept to Nov): The spring and fall seasons offer the best weather for hiking and outdoor activities, with highs reaching the low 80°Fs (high 20s°C). Springtime is particularly photogenic when desert flowers brighten up the red rock landscapes.

In summer, average highs sit in the 90°Fs (30s°C) and the dry heat can be uncomfortable for those unaccustomed to it. If you do visit at this time, make sure you’re prepared with suitable clothing and sun protection, as well as an umbrella—this is also monsoon season.

Car

Most visitors to Sedona come to explore the natural landscapes around town and a car is essential. There are numerous rental companies in town, but most travelers find it more cost-effective to pick up their rental at the airport and save on transfer fees.

Tours

Jeep tours and guided tours set out from Sedona to destinations such as the Grand Canyon, the Verde Canyon, and Antelope Canyon. If you don’t have your own transport, your only option is to join a tour.

Taxis

Taxis are available for short hops, such as riding between your hotel and a restaurant, but are not a viable option for sightseeing or longer distances.

Ridesharing

Uber and Lyft are available in Sedona on your smartphone, but it can be difficult to find rides and shouldn’t be relied on.