One Perfect Day in Sedona: How to See the Best of Red Rock Country in 24 Hours

Think of Sedona and you might imagine towering red rocks, peaceful hiking trails, powerful vortexes, and breathtaking views. In the ideal world, you’d take several days to immerse yourself in Sedona’s magic. But, if you don’t have that long, don’t worry! You can still experience the best bits in 24 hours–if you know how. 

In this guide, I'll show you how to enjoy epic hikes, panoramic viewpoints, delicious local eats, and even some art and spirituality–all in the space of a day. 

Why Sedona Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

Sedona isn't just scenic, it's a unique blend of natural beauty and spirituality. Here, you can hike past rock formations dating back 300 million years, browse handcrafted jewelry in a Mexican-style courtyard, or even consult a psychic about your energy field. It's this fascinating mix that makes Sedona a destination unlike any other. 

The scenery is a big draw, of course. Iconic red cliffs, massive sandstone buttes, and winding creeks all surround the town. But Sedona moves at a slower, more intentional pace than most tourist towns–where wellness, nature, and those mysterious energy vortexes take center stage.

It's perfect for:

• First-time visitors who want a balance of nature and creature comforts
• Road trippers looking to stretch their legs in a truly stunning spot
• Travelers who like art galleries as much as hiking boots.

Most attractions in Sedona are located within a short drive of the center, so you can see the highlights without spending hours behind the wheel. 

Morning: Sunrise and Soulful Starts

Start Your Day with Sunrise at Airport Mesa

First off, I recommend setting that alarm. By starting your day early, you can include a spectacular sunrise - it's totally worth it. Airport Mesa is one of the easiest places to catch those breathtaking first-light colors without a long hike. 

It's also one of Sedona's well-known "vortex sites," so tune in and see if you can feel the vibes as you catch the sunrise.  

There's a small parking lot right near the viewpoint (you'll need a Red Rock Pass or $5 cash for the day-use fee), and from there, it's just a 5-minute walk to the overlook.

Pro tip: Aim to get there 30 minutes before sunrise to snag a parking space and enjoy the tranquility before the tour groups arrive.

Breakfast at Coffee Pot Restaurant

Once the sun's up, head to Coffee Pot Restaurant on Sedona's west side. This quirky, family-owned diner is famous for its massive menu (with 101 omelet options—yes, really!) and its view of Coffee Pot Rock right out the window.

It's casual, fast, and friendly—perfect for a post-sunrise refuel. The portions are significant, so you’ll have plenty of energy to burn off during your next activity.

Parking tip: There's a dedicated lot, but it fills up mid-morning—arriving before 9 am is best.

Hike Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop

Head to the Bell Rock Trailhead, about a 10–15-minute drive south via Highway 179. This area is ideal for first-timers, as trails are well-marked, the scenery is unbeatable, and you can dedicate as much or as little time to it as you like.

The Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop covers about 4 miles of mostly flat terrain, although there are some rocky sections. Expect red rock towers, desert flora, and wide-open sky. It's usually busiest mid-morning, so arriving straight after breakfast means cooler temperatures and fewer people.

Pro tip: To save time, hike up the Bell Rock Pathway for 20–30 minutes and then turn around—there are great views even from halfway up.

Don't forget: Bring water, sunscreen, and your Red Rock Pass for trailhead parking.

Midday: Scenic Drives, Spiritual Stops, and Lunch Views

Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway

Keep the momentum going by exploring one of Arizona's most beautiful drives. Hop back on Highway 179—officially called the Red Rock Scenic Byway—and cruise north toward Uptown Sedona.

The drive is short (about 7.5 miles) but packed with jaw-dropping views. You'll pass by famous formations like Castle Rock and Cathedral Rock. There are several easy pull-offs along the way–perfect for snapping photos.

Best stops:

• Yavapai Vista Point: Wide-ranging views without a hike
• Courthouse Vista: Access to a scenic trail towards Courthouse Butte
• Cathedral Rock Trailhead: Worth a peek even if you don't hike it.

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of Sedona's most iconic landmarks, and it’s just a few minutes off the Byway. Built right into a red rock cliff in the 1950s, this small, modernist chapel offers gorgeous views of the surrounding canyon and spires.

After a short uphill walk from the parking lot, enter the peaceful chapel and take in the massive glass window behind the altar–it frames the rock formations like a painting.

Insider tip: Parking can be tight. Try to visit before noon or be ready to walk up from the overflow lots.

Lunch at The Hudson or Creekside American Bistro

After your morning of sightseeing, you’ll probably be ready for lunch. Happily, there are two great options with killer views, good food, and a relaxing vibe.

• The Hudson: This upscale-casual spot serves up modern American fare, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the red rocks. It’s great for burgers, salads, cocktails–and, of course, those views. Reserve if you can.
• Creekside American Bistro: This shaded, woodsy place is located right next to Oak Creek. It has a laid-back vibe and the menu is fresh and varied, with lots of vegetarian and lighter options.

Afternoon: Art, Energy, and Exploration

Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Wander into Sedona's creative heart at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village (pronounced Tuh-LAH-kuh-pah-kee), a dreamy village of art, cobblestones, and shaded courtyards. This charming plaza was designed to look like a Mexican village, with vine-covered stucco walls, cobblestone walkways, and shady courtyards that feel miles away from the desert heat.

It's not your typical tourist trap. You'll find gorgeous one-of-a-kind items, including hand-blown glass, boutique jewelry, and funky gifts, all crafted by local artisans. If you want to slow down, this is the place, so sip a glass of wine or treat yourself to gelato as you soak it all up.

Don't miss:

• Honshin Fine Art for peaceful, spiritual pieces
• Kuivato Gallery for vibrant glasswork
• Seasonal events and live music in the courtyard

Vortex Visit at Cathedral Rock or Boynton Canyon

Now it’s time to experience Sedona's famous energy vortexes—mystical spots of concentrated energy said to encourage both reflection and healing. Cathedral Rock and Boynton Canyon are the most popular, and each offers a different experience.

• Cathedral Rock: A short but steep hike (about 1.5 miles round-trip) that quickly climbs towards jaw-dropping views. It's intense in spots—really more of a scramble than a walk—but the payoff is dramatic views between soaring sandstone towers. 
• Boynton Canyon: A mellow trail through forested canyon walls that opens up to stunning red rocks. The trail is long (over 6 miles round-trip), but you can turn around at the vortex site (around 0.5 miles in) if you’d rather keep it short and sweet.

Evening: Red Rock Sunset and Memorable Dining

Watch the Sunset from Doe Mountain or Red Rock Crossing

Sunset in Sedona is the grand finale. If you’ve got enough energy left in the tank, there are two top viewing spots:

• Doe Mountain: This is the place if you have one more short–and not too tricky–hike in you. It's a 1.5-mile round-trip climb with switchbacks that lead to a flat mesa top—perfect for 360° views and wide-open skies. Make sure you bring a headlamp for the way back down.
• Red Rock Crossing: Want to keep it easy? This is one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest—for good reason. Head to Crescent Moon Picnic Site (there’s a small fee to park), and walk just a few minutes down the trail for that iconic view of Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek. 

Dinner at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

Cap off the day with dinner at Mariposa, one of Sedona's most talked-about restaurants—and not just because of the view (although to be fair, it's incredible).

Reservations are a must at this classy venue that specializes in Latin-American food with a Southwest twist—think grilled meats, ceviche, empanadas, and creative cocktails. It's upscale but not stuffy.

If Mariposa is booked, Dahl & Di Luca is another excellent choice that serves up–as you’ve probably guessed from the name–tasty Italian cuisine in an elegant setting.

Bonus Tips for Making the Most of One Day in Sedona

• Come in spring or fall. March to May and late September to early November are the sweet spots, with cool mornings, clear skies, and glowing red rocks at both ends of the day.
• Buy a Red Rock Pass: Required at most trailheads, you can grab a day pass for $5 from kiosks at major trails or visitor centers. 
• Start early, avoid the crowds: Yes to sunrise hikes. Yes to breakfast before 9. If you roll into Sedona at 10:30 am, you’ll get caught up in the crowds.
• Parking is tight, so have a backup plan: Parking lots at Cathedral Rock and Chapel of the Holy Cross fill up quickly. If there are no spaces, don't waste time circling—move to your next stop and swing back later.
• Sedona Shuttle is your friend: During busy months, use the free Sedona Shuttle to avoid parking headaches at trailheads like Soldier Pass and Cathedral Rock. 
• Want to go deeper? Book a tour: Whether you’re visiting a vortex site, enjoying a jeep ride, or taking a photo tour, you’ll learn much more from a guide than you would going alone.
• Pack smart: Water, sunblock, comfy shoes, and layers are all essential, as temperatures can swing wildly between morning and afternoon, especially in spring and fall.

Final Thoughts: Capturing the Spirit of Sedona in Just 24 Hours

One day in Sedona is more than enough to fall under its spell. Combine glowing red rocks, scenic hiking trails, powerful energy centers, and the best food around, and you’ll see just how rewarding a short visit can be.

So, are you ready to chase the red rock feeling? Let us know your favorite Sedona moment in the comments. Was it the sunrise? The art? Or something totally unexpected? Have a great time finding out!