Sedona Arizona: 3 Day Itinerary

Not every trip needs to be a week or longer, some of the best trips I’ve had are ones I’ve snuck off to for a quick 2-3 days. It helps make the grind of life more bearable until I can escape again. 

One of my all time favorite places to do this is Sedona. The colors are unbeatable, the hiking is breathtaking, and the town itself has a very laid back vibe. You are meant to recharge while you’re here. Even if I never know if it’s truly Sedona itself I love, or just the vortex that pulls me in (more on that later). But, either way I don’t mind, I’ll keep going back! 

 I have whole-heartedly enjoyed myself each time I’ve visited this gorgeous city, but now having been in both summer and winter, I may actually prefer the winter. The early mornings  and late evenings were chilly, but outside of that, the day time was mellow. I even took off a few layers while hiking during the day. It is also less crowded, and I am personally a huge fan of less people. That being said, I don’t believe there is ever a bad time to go to Sedona, as long a you check the weather before hand and pack accordingly. 

Before we dig into the spots you can’t miss out on, I just want to point out something really quick. You may find that nothing I suggest in this entire blog post sounds appealing to you, totally fine. But please, PLEASE make sure you watch at least one sunrise and one sunset. That in itself makes the entire trip worth it. 

Where to stay

I always try to set an intention with my outdoor-focused trips. Am I trying to spend as much time outside as possible and totally disconnect from everything else to reset? (And potentially live out one of my fantasies of being a rugged wandering woman?) If so, then I camp. With this intention I usually bring most of my food with me and eat right at the campsite, since I won’t really have the amenities I’d want to get ready and look decent for dinner. Honestly, not a bad option at all if you’re really looking to getaway from it all and reconnect with yourself, your partner or even a friend! I personally have yet to camp in Sedona so I wouldn’t feel confident recommending where to go, but as soon as I do I will report back!

The other intention I may set is to spend my mornings and afternoons hiking and exploring, then wander around the small shops and restaurants in the evening. I also have the luxury of grabbing a coffee at a local cafe before setting out to hike! With this intention, I prefer to have some amenities available (i.e. Outlets to plug in a blow dryer or straightener, larger mirrors, a shower ect.) This is the intention I’ve had the times I’ve gone in the past. 

If you’re down to spend a little more money, I really think renting a cabin or house on airbnb is the way to go. They’re usually decorated super cute and a lot of hosts provide great recommendations! The one we stayed in last winter had a hot tub, which was absolutely perfect after our full days of hiking! 

If you’re on a budget the Dreamcatcher Inn of Sedona has some decent rooms, which are reasonably priced. It’s a standard hotel, but doesn’t provide a fitness center, pool or anything extra. But assuming you’re coming to Sedona to explore the outdoors and the city, it will fit your needs just fine. In my experience, the room was comfy and the staff was super accommodating. For a little extra you can even get a room with a mountain view. Most importantly, the location is great. I think the furthest we drove for a hike was 16 minutes!

Day 1 

Since usually your day of arrival isn’t a full one, I’ll typically only plan a half day of activities. So once you’ve properly settled into your accommodations, throw on some comfortable clothes and head to Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park. This is the perfect place to set your intention for your trip and experience the more spiritual side of Sedona. Even if you are not spiritual yourself, this place is definitely worth seeing.

Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

Located at the foot of Thunder Mountain, Amitabha Stupa is in a 14-acre Peace Park visited by locals and tourists alike. It is open 7 days a week from 7am-5pm and free to visit. However, it is supported by donations, you will see two donation boxes in the Peace Park. Upon arrival, you’ll see a decent sized parking lot, and from there it’s a short walk to the Stupa.

What is a Stupa: A Stupa is a Buddhist monument, typically found in places used for meditation.

There are a few things you can do while visiting the Peace Park:

• Enjoy the Peaceful Setting: Amidst the red rock landscape, the park invites quiet contemplation. Explore the 0.3-mile loop to take in the natural beauty.

• Traditions: Participate in two meaningful traditions:

1. Stupa Circumambulation: Walk around the stupa three times clockwise, silently reciting your chosen mantra or prayer. As you’ll see on signs, the park encourages a focus on universal compassion.
2. Medicine Wheel: Enter from the east with an intention (guidance or healing) in mind. Walk the wheel clockwise and exit the same way.

While you’re visiting, keep in mind that this is a very sacred space for a lot of people so you always want to be respectful. Use quiet voices when speaking, avoid running or other disruptive movements, and follow the practice of “Leave no trace”.

Dinner

For your first night in Sedona, Arizona, I highly recommend heading to The Hideaway House. This cozy restaurant offers a blend of delicious Italian cuisine and awe-inspiring vistas. Here’s why you won’t want to miss it:

• Make a Reservation: The Hideaway House can get busy, so be sure to book a table in advance. Opt for the back patio—it’s the perfect spot to soak in the scenery while you dine.

• Food and Atmosphere: The combination of delicious food and a charming ambiance won’t disappoint. Whether you’re a pizza lover or craving pasta, their menu has something for everyone.

• Dietary-restricted options: Hideaway House offers Gluten-Free and Vegetarian options. As a vegan, I found the choices somewhat limited, but my custom-built pizza with vegan cheese and fresh toppings left me more than satisfied.

• Scenic Views: While eating my entire pizza and enjoying a local lager I marveled at the breathtaking colors of Sedona’s red rock mountains. We lucked out with a double rainbow after a day of rain—a magical sight!

• Post-Dinner Plans: After dinner, consider a leisurely stroll or perhaps another drink in the area. But don’t stay out too late—you’ll want to be well-rested for a full day of exploring ahead.

Day 2

I know waking up early is not for everyone…BUT, speaking from personal experience, and I guarantee other hikes up there would back me up on this, an early start is the way to go. Especially when it comes to making the most of your day. I personally would plan for a quick coffee and breakfast in the hotel room and most definitely bring snacks with you!

Soldier’s Pass /Brins Mesa Trail/Cibola Pass Trail/Jordan Trail 

For this hike you’ll park at the Posse Grounds Park & Ride. There was plenty of parking here, especially if you get there early. From here you have two options: You can take the shuttle right to the trailhead (I’ll link info for the shuttle below) or you can make the one mile walk, there will be signs to direct you.

Shuttle Info Here!

There are bathrooms available at the trailhead. These are the only ones available for the remainder of the hike.

This hike is a loop that I recommend doing clockwise. It’s made up of multiple different trails that each have something unique to offer. I go into more detail about it in THIS post.

You’ll get to see:

1. Devil’s Kitchen
2. Seven Sacred Pools
3. Brins Mesa

Lunch

After your hike you’ll have to make a big decision…are you going to go back to your accommodations to shower before lunch, or are you just going to head straight there? Personally, I went back to shower, but to each their own, I’m not here to judge. Just be sure that if you freshen up, you change into clothes that will be comfy enough for a short hike later on. Next stop, The Secret Garden Cafe!

• Food and Atmosphere: his charming oasis provides a rustic feel on the inside, providing a cozy and intimate spot to enjoy your meal. Or you can opt to sit in their outdoor patio where you’ll be surrounded by greenery and pops of bright floral colors. They boast a menu providing fresh and healthier options which are made from scratch daily. Offering a variety of cold and grilled sandwich options, along with soups and salads.

• Dietary-restricted options: There are plenty of gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. I really liked the portobello burger (ask for the vegan option)!

• Post-Lunch Plans: From here, it’s a 3-minute drive (or a 14-minute walk) to the downtown area, where a variety of local shops await. As you explore, follow your senses to the Spice & Tea Exchange. The fragrant aroma of their loose leaf teas may beckon even before you step inside. Browse there huge selection of loose-leaf teas and treat yourself to a cup to go—the perfect post-lunch refreshment!

Be sure to check what time sunset i, so you can plan to wrap up shopping at least an hour and a half before then. Next stop will be Airport Mesa.

Airport Mesa:

This is where you will will encounter your first experience with one of the famous Sedona Vortexes.

What is a Vortex: A natural phenomenon of swirling, concentrated center of spiritual energy. They are believed to hold healing a special spiritual properties, but also more commonly, create the ultimate space for reflection and meditation.

The Airport Mesa vortex specifically is believed to harness more uplifting energy. Whether this sounds like your thing or not, the view is absolutely incredible from on top of the mesa, and you may end up having an experience that leaves you feeling much more open to the properties of the vortex like I did…

To get to the Mesa, you’ll head to the upper parking lot of the Sedona Airport-located on Airport Road. Parking is $3 and is paid at the kiosk. Be sure to get there 30-40 minutes before sun set or there will NOT be any parking available. The Airport View Trail starts from here, and this is what you’ll follow to get to the Mesa.

It’s an easy .7 mile hike there and .7 mile back, just mind your footing since the trail is a bit rocky and uneven. This is a popular trail, so expect to encounter others along the way. The trail will lead you right to the mesa, which you’ll want to climb to the top of to really experience the vortex.

So in my personal experience, I loved the idea of the vortexes, but I wasn’t completely sold on them. That was until, I sat at the top on a partially cloudy, but overall beautiful day. I promise I could feel the energy coming from the mesa, and even if I couldn’t have felt it, I had the physical proof of its presence. My hair began to stand up totally straight on my head and my arms! When I looked around many others were experiencing the same thing, I later that this is a common occurrence with the vortexes. But it was wild to experience first hand!

This is an amazing spot to watch the sunset from! You have the most sensational view of Sedona, and watching the colors shift and dance over it will take your breath away. Make sure you don’t let all the light slip away before heading back down into town. You’ll have one more stop to make. We can’t forget dinner!

Dinner

Open Range:

• Food and Atmosphere: You will experience a laidback southwest vibe, This restaurant prides itself in building there meals with organic, locally grown and raised ingredients. Their menu offers a combination of traditional American BBQ and Mexican food. Giving their guests the best of both worlds with smoky BBQ flavors and zesty Mexican spices that pair great with one of their local beers or margaritas!

• Dietary-restricted options: Although they had a few vegetarian and vegan options available in the form of a veggie meat for salads and sandwiches, I did not see any gluten free options mentioned on their menu or website. This may be something you’d have to call ahead for!

• Scenic Views: Continue to admire the stunning views of Sedona’s red rocks with Open Range’s scenic back proch seating.

• Post-Dinner Plans: This is where Day 2 will come to a close. I would advise another night to properly rest in preparation for your third and final day.

Day 3:

Breakfast

On your third and final day, before you take your last venture into the famous Sedona red rocks, awaken your senses with some freshly brewed coffee at Fay Cafe. Not only does it have great coffee and teas to choose from (Including dairy free milk options), and vegan friendly bites, but you can also browse their lovely selection of plants and enchanting collection of books.

The atmosphere is absolutely unbeatable! So, while you sip your dirty chai latte (which is the drink I recommend), you can nestle in between the natural greenery and curl up with a good book. You’ll honestly feel like you’re just hanging out in your friends living room. It’s easy to see why a lot of locals claim this spot as their “home-away-from-home”.

With your caffeine fix in hand, it’s time to lace up your hiking boots and explore our last hiking trail and mystical vortex!

Bell Rock Trail

Upon arrival, you’ll find this trail has its own parking lot, that’s why coming in the morning is ideal so you can claim a spot! Personally, we had no issues finding one, there were quite a few available, but better safe than sorry. From here, there are a few visible trails that will lead you to the base of Bell Rock, which got its name from it’s shape being similar to a standing bell.

This is relatively moderate .8 mile hike that will require a little scrambling to get up the boulders if you want to get hiring up for the unbelievable view! Wants you start to climb up, it’s mostly a choose your own adventure situation from there, so just be mindful of where you step, and also be aware of areas you feel you’ll be able to safely get down after. I definitely encourage you to explore different spots on Bell Rock though, the view is exceptional.

Although the vortex didn’t have my hair standing up, I did just feel super content and happy being there. Which could totally just be due to the fact that I love being outside and exploring new places, who knows. But, this vortex is said to bring creative energy and self awareness.

I found this was the perfect place to conclude an incredible weekend! It allows for one more short hike that provides you with one of the most breathtaking views in Sedona, without totally exhausting you before the journey home. Make sure to give yourself time to just sit and hang out on one of Bell Rock’s many ledges, you want this to be an experience you can savor.

Quick Glance of Bell Rock Trail

Distance: 0.8 mile

Elevation Gain: 203 ft

Level: Easy-Moderate (Depending on how you choose to climb up)

Time: 30 minutes

Traffic: Popular

I have no doubts that you’ll find Sedona just as captivating as I did. From the natural beauty that surrounds it, the variety of unique shops, and delicious local fare, you’ll understand why this spot is on many people’s bucket lists! There is so much beauty and wonder to see here, it definitely can’t all be captured in a single weekend, but I hope this guide offers you an adventure filled experience. The vortexes are definitely not the only thing that will be making you plan your next trip back before you’re even a mile away!