Top 10 Things To Do In Sedona, Arizona | Adventurous, Fun & Modern Recommendations!
There is NO shortage of adventure & thrill in Sedona, Arizona.
Here are my recommendations based on our trip in December 2022.
If you're looking for the ultimate adventurous getaway (especially a Mountain Biking trip!) that is filled with exciting trails, delicious food, and unbeatable sights—then Sedona, Arizona should be at the top of your list.
To be honest, Sedona was never a place that I had on my bucket list. There were so many other countries and cities that I wanted to visit for upcoming vacations, but ever since I picked up Mountain Biking a few years ago— I have become totally hooked.
These days, my criteria for a great vacation include: incredible nature, mountains, endless trails, and a sense of exhaustion by 4pm so that I can relax in a hot tub or enjoy a glass of wine and delicious dinner from 5pm onwards.
If you find yourself nodding along, then I have some epic suggestions for you.
Nestled in stunning red rocks and surrounded by quaint and small nearby towns, Sedona's vibrant and spiritual energy has kept it a popular destination for centuries.
From enchanting attractions to hip restaurants teeming with locals and visitors alike; there’s something here for everyone! Ready to plan your next adventurous escape?
Here are my Top Adventurous, Fun & Modern recommendations for the person who wants to explore and eat well.
If you have any questions, feel free to send me a message on Instagram @kelseyreidl
The details:
We flew into Pheonix from Toronto (flew Air Canada on a direct flight)
From Pheonix, we rented a car with Nu Car (most affordable option) and drove straight to Sedona
Dave and I spent 4 nights in Sedona. We arrived on a Wednesday and departed on Sunday. This felt like the perfect amount of time to explore, adventure and do a few mini trips outside of the town.
We spent 2 nights in Scottsdale after Sedona
Where to stay in Sedona, Arizona
We stayed at a hotel called Sky Rock (I believe it has now been taken over by The Marriot, so I’m sure it will only get better!)
Sky Rock was perfectly located on the main artery road of Sedona, and it had easy in and out access with our bikes which we appreciated.
Sky Rock is close to all of the main Mountain Biking Trails, has easy accessibility to the restaurants, and to the local bike shop (always important when you’re on a bike trip because things can and will go wrong… see photo!)
My first time travelling on an airplane with my bike was interesting!
I decided to break down my mountain bike, borrow a bike case from a friend, and travel with my own bike.
I had trouble re-assembling it, but thank god for Thunder Mountain Bikes!
Sky Rock has a gorgeous lobby bar where you can grab a drink or listen to live music. They also offer meditation, yoga, and holistic classes taught by experts (although I never made it to a class because we were always riding).
We loved the ability to drive right up to our room, the hot tub was the perfect way to end a long day on the bikes, and the bike wash station was also helpful.
All in all, I have nothing but great things to say about this hotel!
Where to eat dinner in Sedona, Arizona
The first night that we arrived, we went to the lobby bar at Sky Rock and chatted with the bartender who was local to the area and knew of all of the best, most trendy restaurants in and out of town.
I took careful notes, and we trusted his suggestions!
He recommended 3 restaurants in particular that we wanted to try. All of them were winners and we enjoyed 10/10 dining experiences.
Pizzeria Bocce (Cottonwood, Arizona)
Lively Italian wood-fired pizza spot with incredible atmosphere and delicious food. We started with the house saled, and each got a pizza (highly recommend the Arugula and Prosciutto Pizza after a long day of riding!)
The Hudson (Sedona, Arizona)
Closer to town, The Hudson has something for everyone with a trendy and classy atmosphere. The kale salad was insanely delcious.The Clinkscale Hotel (Jerome, Arizona)
Worth the drive! We did the 40 minute drive to Jerome one night to see this incredible Ghost Town that used to be home to 15,000 people when the mining industry was active.
We walked the shops first, tried to experience the haunted vibes, and then went to an incredible dinner at The Clinkscale Hotel. It’s a 1920’s atmosphere, very lively with incredible cocktails (Dave raved about The Manhattan)
Where to rent bikes in Sedona, Arizona
I cannot recommend Thunder Mountain Bikes enough if you need a rental or a repair in Sedona.
They went above and beyond to ensure that my husband and I had great bikes (Thanks Mike and Mikey), and they offered me so much support when I had issues rebuilding my bike after breaking it down to travel with it.
I think that my Google Review for them sums it up best.
Where to grab coffee and snacks in Sedona, Arizona.
I’m a bit of a creature of habit when it comes to what I eat, so when I find something that I like I will generally go back day after day.
Since our hotel was conveniently located beside a Whole Foods Market, we frequented their coffee bar (their espresso is world-class!) and ate most of our Breakfasts there.
We would also stock up on snacks for the day (Beef Jerky, Hummus, Trail Mix, Fruit, etc.) so that we could ensure that we had fuel on the trails!
Where to go Mountain Biking in Sedona, Arizona
Carrol Canyon: techy, good elevation, and some incredible views. The river crossing makes it extra spicy and adventurous, too! Slim Shady is a lot of fun but be prepared to hike a bike up to Cathedral Rock!
[Here’s a link to my Strava Route from Carrol Canyon]Mezcal and Chuckwagon: panoramic views, biking on the edge of the canyon, world class thrill!
[Here’s a link to my Strava Route from Carrol Canyon]Adobe Jack: longer and flowy, great for day three when the legs are a bit tired! Be sure to have lunch at the top of ant hill.
[Here’s a link to my Strava Route from Carrol Canyon]
I had no idea how much fun we would have in Sedona. It was a dream come true trip.
I had asked a few people about their time in Sedona before coming, and the reviews were certainly mixed. Some people said it was quiet, slow and boring— but let me assure you that if you are into Mountain Biking you will have the COMPLETE opposite experience!
We found thrills, adventure, and excitement around every corner but I can see how if you aren’t thrill seeking by bike.
We’re already dreaming about making our return to Sedona and dreaming up where we want to Mountain Bike next.
Have suggestions?
Send me a message on Instagram.
@kelseyreidl
