Best Day Trips from Sedona, AZ
Sedona, Arizona, is the perfect hub for incredible day trips to nearby destinations that highlight the diversity of the Southwest. Whether you're drawn to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, a funky ghost town-turned-artists’ haven, a cool mountain town with alpine adventures, or the scenic vineyards of Verde Valley—there’s a world of unforgettable experiences just a short drive away. Here are the top day trips from Sedona AZ that you won’t want to miss.
Flagstaff, AZ – Mountain Adventures & Scenic Drives
Distance from Sedona: 29 miles | Drive Time: ~45 minutes
Why Visit: Flagstaff is a breath of fresh mountain air—literally. Sitting at 7,000 feet elevation and typically 15°F cooler than Sedona, this alpine city offers outdoor recreation year-round. Hike the pine forests, mountain bike single-track trails, or ski at Arizona Snowbowl in winter.
- Mount Humphreys views (12,633 ft – Arizona’s highest peak)
- Stunning drive along Oak Creek Canyon via Hwy 89A
- Historic Downtown Flagstaff’s breweries, dining, and college-town vibe
- Home of Northern Arizona University and the Lowell Observatory
- Gateway to the Grand Canyon
Don’t Miss: Try the local craft beer scene or dine outdoors in Heritage Square. Stay overnight to enjoy live music and nightlife.
Jerome, AZ – Ghost Town Meets Art Scene
Distance from Sedona: 28 miles | Drive Time: ~45 minutes
Why Visit: Perched on the steep slopes of Cleopatra Hill, Jerome is a former mining town that’s now a haven for artists, bikers, and spiritual seekers. Known for its ghost stories and quirky charm, Jerome delivers a unique blend of history and creativity.
- Haunted tours at the Jerome Grand Hotel
- The iconic Spirit Room saloon & live music bar
- Caduceus Cellars winery
- Local art galleries, antique shops, and historic ruins
- Walking-friendly layout with hillside stairs
Don’t Miss: Take the self-guided ghost walk or stop by Jerome State Historic Park for mining history and panoramic views.
Grand Canyon National Park – Iconic Natural Wonder
Distance from Sedona: 115 miles | Drive Time: ~2 hours
Why Visit: A visit to Sedona isn’t complete without experiencing Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim. This is one of the top day trips from Sedona and a must-see destination for nature lovers, photographers, and first-time visitors to Arizona.
- Breathtaking canyon overlooks on the Rim Trail
- Hop-on-hop-off shuttle service to multiple viewpoints
- Visitor Center exhibits and free Ranger Talks
- Watchtower at Desert View and scenic picnic spots
- Incredible photo ops at sunrise or sunset
Don’t Miss: Book a helicopter tour from Sedona or a guided shuttle tour. Consider a Flagstaff dinner stop on the way back.
Verde Valley – Wine Country of Northern Arizona
Distance from Sedona: Starts just 10 miles away
Why Visit: The Verde Valley Wine Trail winds through charming towns like Cottonwood, Cornville, and Clarkdale—each with boutique wineries, scenic views, and relaxing vibes. Whether you're into wine, kayaking, horseback riding, or cultural experiences, this is a great day trip for adults.
- Over 17 local wineries and tasting rooms
- Kayak wine tours on the Verde River
- Verde Canyon Railroad scenic train ride
- Horseback riding, fishing, and farm experiences
- Fewer crowds and more local charm
Don’t Miss: Stop by Page Springs Cellars for patio tastings or Alcantera Vineyards for a picnic with wine and music.
GUIDED DAY TRIPS NEAR SEDONA
Best Grand Canyon Day Tours
Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our profess … More
Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.
Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Private Tours Available | Family-Friendly
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters
Family-Friendly
Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours
Private Tours Available | Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Pickup from Hotel
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale with Sedona
Professionally Guided | Private Tours Available | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly
Wildland Trekking
Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon Railway
Family-Friendly
Arizona Private Tours
Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Pickup from Hotel | Romantic
Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend
Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where y … More
Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where you can peer off the edge at the mighty Colorado River! Tours leaves from Flagstaff.
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale
Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument … More
Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Visit Bell Rock, Airport Mesa and Chapel of the Holy Cross. Options available for shopping, galleries, restaurants in Uptown or T'laquapaque and off-road Jeep tours or guided hike add-ons.
Professionally Guided | Custom Options Available | Private Tours Available | Pickup from Hotel
Maverick Helicopter Tours
Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available
Pink Jeep Adventures
Family-Friendly | Native Culture & Tours | Professionally Guided
Prescott Resort and Conference Center
Meetings & Group Facilities | Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Whirlpool Tub | Fitness Center