27 Attractions and Activities to Do in Sedona, Arizona
Looking for a full list of things to do while spending some time in Sedona, Arizona? There are plenty of attractions and activities to add to your itinerary depending on your budget and time. In this article, former 40 year Arizona resident Jason Wilson shares some of his favorite activities and attractions you can add to your Sedona itinerary during your next visit.
Last updated: April 11, 2024
16 min read
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Planning a visit to the magical city of Sedona? As a 40 year resident of Arizona, this is one of my favorite locations to spend time in, especially if you are visiting or live near Phoenix. It’s only a couple hours drive from the Phoenix metro area, and there’s plenty to do in the heart of Red Rock Country!
With its breathtaking views, rugged landscape, plentiful activities, and rich natural and human history, Sedona is a popular Arizona tourist location that’ll keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a sightseer, an adventurer, or just want to do some shopping – there’s a little bit of everything in Sedona.
Whether you only have a day to explore Sedona or are fortunate enough to have more time to explore the area, there’s plenty to enjoy for travelers of all types. Ready to discover all that northern Arizona’s crown jewel has to offer? Let’s dive right in!
Explore Sedona’s Red Rocks
Peak Season
March to May
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Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Hikers, Spiritual Seekers, Photography Aficionados
One thing Sedona is known all over the world for is the stunningly dramatic rock formations located in Red Rock State Park.
There are five miles of family-friendly loop tracks for you to tread on and explore all on your own. With 286 acres of untamed wilderness around you, there are plenty of sights to bask in!
If you’d prefer some guidance, daily walking tours are also available and led by a naturalist expert. The tours start at 9:00 am from June to September and 10:00 am from October to May.
While you’re out, be on the lookout for Sedona’s thriving wildlife. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot deer, coyotes, birds, and even the local stinky javelina.
Searching for even bigger adventures? Sign up for full moon tours! There’s nothing like seeing this striking natural landscape against the backdrop of the setting sun and rising full moon and stars.
Just make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, wear close-toed shoes, and bring plenty of water when exploring the red rocks. You’ll also need a flashlight (or a cellphone with one) for the night tours.
Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
Peak Season
Spring, Fall
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Spiritual Seekers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Religious Pilgrims, Nature Lovers
Take a short drive south of the bustling heart of Sedona to visit one of the 10 most beautiful churches in the world, according to Architectural Digest!
The Chapel of the Holy Cross, a jewel amid Sedona’s landscape, is a stunning building built onto the cliff face of the famous red rocks. This structure is 250 feet high and was originally intended for Hungary before World War II broke out.
Since 1956, the chapel has welcomed tourists from across the globe. You’re free to visit the chapel regardless of your religious affiliation, but please remember to be respectful. As such, refrain from eating or drinking, remain silent, and leave your pets outside.
If you’d like to attend a service, a Taizé prayer is offered on Monday evenings, with Adoration, Confession, and Mass falling on Fridays. You can also light a candle for your loved ones at any time during the church’s opening hours (9:00 am to 5:00 pm).
Aside from that, feel free to explore the several pieces of gorgeous art within the chapel and its grounds that add to the atmosphere of wonder and peace.
Bring your camera with you too and revel in the breathtaking sights of Sedona from the chapel’s elevated location. You wouldn’t want to miss it!
Hike in Boynton Canyon
Peak Season
March to May
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Nature Lovers, Hikers, Spiritual Seekers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Photography Aficionados
Looking to take in Sedona’s natural sights while still having the convenience of nearby towns to relax in? Then hiking in Boynton Canyon is your best bet!
This six-mile trail presents a moderately challenging hike, but it’s well worth it. You’ll find yourself immersed in towering red rock buttes, fully experiencing the beauty of the desert wildlife.
If you’re lucky, you’ll spot all sorts of wildflowers, cacti, a variety of birds, and even whitetail deer.
Before you head over, keep in mind that this trail is particularly popular. As it has stunning views and is relatively sheltered from the wind and sun, it invites plenty of hikers – so you’re sure to always have company!
Boynton Canyon Trail is also connected to a number of other trails and sights. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a quick detour off the main route to explore Sedona’s Subway Cave.
The quirky name is inspired by the rock formation’s resemblance to a train station. This cave offers amazing views of the surrounding valley, so it’s a must-visit if you’re in the area!
Aside from that, there are also Sinagua ruins you can explore – although some sites may require a reservation beforehand.
Make sure to be respectful (take only photographs, leave only footprints) and bring all necessary hiking equipment including grippy shoes, snacks, and plenty of water.
Explore the Cathedral Rock Trail
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Spring, Fall
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Hiking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Spiritual Seekers
Bursting with energy and raring for a challenge? Try hiking on the Cathedral Rock Trail!
This is not your typical hike. Even the official website describes it as “more of a rock climb than a hike” courtesy of its steep paths and demanding nature.
As such, make sure you’re prepared for exposure to the elements and very steep sections before attempting this adventure.
Once you make it to the top though, your efforts will be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the red rocks and surrounding desert landscape. Make sure to bring a camera along to preserve the dramatic sights!
You can also expect plenty of thrillseekers in the area, so it’s a great place to make friends and meet like-minded people.
Go Bird Watching at Red Rock State Park
Peak Season
March to May
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Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Hikers, Spiritual Seekers, Photography Aficionados
Are you a bird lover? If so, Red Rock State Park is an excellent spot to bring your binocs. It’s even been designated an IBA — Important Bird Area!
The park is keenly aware of how popular it is for bird watching. You can look for birds on your own, but if you want an expert’s advice, guided tours are available from the visitor’s center.
These tours leave at 7:00 am (June to August), 8:00 am (March to May), or 9:00 am (December to February).
Red Rock State Park has an abundance of bird species to see, including doves, hawks, owls, warblers, and many varieties of hummingbirds. You can even count your finds using an official checklist!
Visit Sedona Arts Center
Peak Season
Spring, Fall
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Art Enthusiasts, Creative Individuals, Cultural Explorers, Students of Visual Arts
Sedona has a vibrant artistic community, likely due to the peaceful atmosphere, stunning landscape that surrounds it, and the potential spiritual energy vortexes!
Get a taste of the local art scene at the Sedona Arts Center gallery, which features rotating exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and more!
Sticking around Sedona for a bit? If so, you can get in touch with your own creative side by enrolling in one of the experiences or crash courses at the Arts Center’s school.
Make some pottery on a wheel or take a field trip to paint one of the surrounding natural landmarks. Your artistic experience is all up to you!
Explore the Devil’s Bridge Trail
Peak Season
March to May
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Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Hikers, Adventure Seekers, Photography Aficionados
Despite the sinister name conjuring up images of the devil, the Devil’s Bridge Trail is anything but demonic. In fact, it’s actually one of Sedona’s most recognizable natural features!
This stunning sandstone arch is about 50 feet tall and frames the surrounding low desert brush with its deep orange pillars.
The journey to this sight involves a bit of a trek and will have you hiking on a 1.8-mile trail, both there and back.
While the hike isn’t among the hardest out there, make sure to still bring plenty of water. You’ll want to head there as early as possible too in order to beat the crowds.
Due to its popularity, you’ll likely still have to queue up before snapping the breathtaking bridge anyway!
Enjoy Oak Creek Canyon
Peak Season
Spring, Fall
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Nature Lovers, Hiking Enthusiasts, Photography Aficionados, Outdoor Adventurers
If you really want to get your fill of breathtaking sights, Oak Creek Canyon should be high up on your list.
This picturesque canyon is like a smaller, slightly less intimidating version of the Grand Canyon, with tons of spots to explore.
For the adventurous, Oak Creek Canyon has plenty of activities for you to do so you can easily spend your entire day in the area.
Interested in hiking? Several trails are available for you to meander on while keeping a lookout for native wildlife such as javelina, deer, and birds.
And if you really want to enjoy the place to the fullest, be sure to pack a picnic too. There are plenty of scenic areas to settle down on and enjoy the views!
Once you’re ready to cool down, you can even swim or fish in the crystal pools and river that carves through the canyon floor. Oak Creek Canyon is an amazing experience you simply can’t miss out on!
Visit the Sedona Heritage Museum
Peak Season
March to May
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History Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Art Aficionados, Heritage Lovers, Nature Enthusiasts
Appreciating a place fully means getting to know more about its local history. If you want to explore Sedona’s vibrant past, there’s no better place for that than the Sedona Heritage Museum!
In this rustic building, you’ll learn all there is to know about the first Western settlers to the area; their lives, and their livelihoods.
Movie buffs are in for a special treat — they can visit the original Winona telegraph office! This structure is recognizable thanks to its mainstay appearance in the almost 100 Western films that were shot in Sedona.
If you time your visit right, you’ll be able to enjoy the museum’s schedule of events that includes one-man shows, dinners and movies, and embroidery days. Check their calendar before your trip to see what’s on.
For all the things that are on offer, Sedona Heritage Museum is surprisingly affordable. Tickets are currently only seven dollars, and kids can even get in for free!
Hike the West Fork Trail
Peak Season
March to May
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Nature Lovers, Hiking Enthusiasts, Outdoor Adventurers, Photographers, Birdwatchers
Each trail you explore in Sedona adds another reason to fall in love with the place. West Fork Trail, a highly popular option among hikers, is a stunning example. This is my personal favorite, and my family and I hiked West Fork every fall to enjoy the fall foliage as temperatures started to drop.
Here, you’ll stroll along a trickling stream that winds through the canyons. You’ll soon find yourself surrounded by red cliffs, gorgeous trees, and the sound of songbirds – not to mention clear pools, colorful rocks, and vibrant wildflowers in abundance.
West Fork Trail changes with the seasons, with autumn being an especially beautiful time to be in the area. During autumn, red maple leaves adorn the trail with breathtaking character, making you feel as if you’re in a dreamscape.
While the trail is relatively easy, you’ll need to cross a stream on a few occasions – so be sure to bring good shoes and swimming gear if you’d like to take a dip!
Join a Jeep Tour of the Local Landscape
Peak Season
Fall to Spring (October to April)
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Adventure Seekers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Photography Aficionados
One of the best ways to explore Sedona’s rugged terrain is through a jeep tour of the local landscape.
Adrenaline thrillseekers and off-road adventure enthusiasts alike will love the numerous different jeep tours on offer around the city.
Ride around the desert and visit stunning red rock formations while skipping the actual hike! As a plus, you’ll learn more about the area’s history from your knowledgeable Jeep driver guides.
Whether you want to explore the Grand Canyon’s dramatic sights or explore deep ravines, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from!
Visit Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Peak Season
Fall and Spring (September to November, March to May)
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Art Enthusiasts, Shoppers Seeking Unique Crafts, Cultural Explorers
Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village is a stunning center that enjoys international renown and is fashioned after a traditional Mexican village.
With its name literally translating to “the best of everything”, you’re truly in for a treat!
That’s exactly what you’ll find at Tlaquepaque. Experience local art and music, and shop for beautiful handcrafted items such as jewelry and souvenirs. Feast your eyes on all sorts of art media such as glass, decor pieces, and photography.
Of course, it’s not just your eyes that’ll be satisfied; all of the food choices available in the area are also sure to whet your appetite!
Make time for a meal and stop by one of the Village’s five gourmet restaurants. These serve everything from sandwiches and French fine dining to authentic Mexican cuisine. If you’re just after a quick treat, there’s also a sweets shop and handmade ice cream parlor to enjoy!
Take Part in a Spiritual Vortex Tour
Peak Season
Spring, Fall
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Spiritual Seekers, Energy Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Mindfulness Practitioners, Hikers
Sedona renowned for its spiritual vortexes — mystical centers of increased spiritual energy and geological places of power.
It’s said that these vortexes channel immense energy that derives from deep within the Earth. Many people believe that these vortexes promote healing and spiritual growth.
Whether you’re a diehard believer or just a bit curious, there are several tours that will take you to the vortex sites. The tours are available in different themes, such as yoga and meditation, jeepneys, and even overnight tours to look for UFOs!
Even if you’re a bit skeptical, the vortexes are at some of Sedona’s most striking natural features. At the very least, they’re beautiful and peaceful places that you’ll be glad to have the chance to behold.
Visit Palatki Heritage Site
Peak Season
Spring
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History Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Archaeology Lovers, Nature Enthusiasts
The ancient cliffside dwellings built by the Sinagua people nearly a thousand years ago at the Palatki Heritage Site are a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle to visit.
Explore the historical structures built into the red rocks and gaze at pictographs and rock art that have survived over the centuries.
This heritage site is extremely important culturally and archaeologically, so it’s crucial to remain respectful. For this reason, reservations are required and dogs aren’t allowed in the heritage area.
Additionally, the path up to the dwellings includes around 60 steep and uneven steps, so it can be fairly strenuous.
However, there’s a wheelchair-accessible path to the picture alcoves, allowing everyone to experience the wonders of ancient art.
Stargaze at the Sedona Star Gazing Observatory
Peak Season
Spring and Fall Months
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Hiking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Photography Aficionados
With its commitment to being a dark sky community – a place that aims to preserve the natural beauty of the night sky – Sedona is one of the best cities to go stargazing. It’s an activity that the whole city takes pride in!
Sedona is excellent for stargazing all year round, except during the monsoon season when the rains obscure the sky.
While you can stargaze anywhere in Sedona, there are several locations that are especially spectacular.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place near the city center, the Jordan Trailhead Observation Area provides a wide field that’s perfect for stargazing.
Want some nighttime scenery with your stargazing? Head over to the Two Trees Observation Area and enjoy the glistening stars with the red rocks in the background!
If you’re after some company, Sedona also has plenty of stargazing tours available. You’ll be led by experienced guides who will also kit you out with the best equipment to make the most of your time!
Join a Hot Air Balloon Tour
Peak Season
May-October
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Adventure Seekers, Nature Enthusiasts, Photography Aficionados, Romantic Couples
Red Rock Country is full of rugged terrain, jagged peaks, and breathtaking sights. There’s no better way to take it all in and enjoy a wonderful view of the landscape than from the sky!
Booking a hot air balloon tour is an unforgettable experience. Fortunately, Sedona has a handful of these services in operation.
For instance, Red Rock Balloons offers sunrise flights. Every day, they fly balloons just as the day begins so you can see the sun make its way up the horizon.
After that life-changing experience, you’ll then glide down and watch the desert, canyons, and staggering rock formations light up with a new day.
Hike Bell Rock Pathway
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Spring, Fall
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Hiking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Spiritual Seekers
The 3.5-mile Bell Rock Pathway takes you to the iconic Bell Rock and offers beautiful views of Courthouse Butte, other famous rock formations, and striking desert beauty.
Unlike many of the trails in the area, the path is wide and hard-packed so you’re allowed to cycle or even go on horseback!
Once you reach the rock, there’s a quick climb to an elevated observation area with views you’d never get from the road.
Toilets and parking are available on the site, but be sure to bring sun protection and your own water for the hike.
Visit the Sedona Film Festival, If in Season
Peak Season
February
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Film Enthusiasts, Cinema Lovers, Art Aficionados, Cultural Explorers, Festival-Goers
Sedona has a rich filmmaking history, so it makes sense that they host an international film festival every year!
The Sedona International Film Festival, typically held during the last week of every February, celebrates independent films and invites viewers to look at the world with “a different lens”.
Screenings cover over a hundred different films, so you’re in for an absolute treat if you’re a movie lover.
The films that are shown change every year, so make sure to check out the website for the latest listings!
Aside from film screenings, there are also plenty of opportunities to meet the filmmakers themselves and ask questions, as well as attend workshops and seminars if you’re interested in the art of communicating through film.
Shop at the Sedona Farmers Market
Peak Season
May-October
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Food Enthusiasts, Farmers Market Lovers, Local Produce Aficionados, Culinary Explorers
Get a taste of the local produce and get in with the locals at the weekly Sedona Farmers Market! The market runs on Sundays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm from May to early October and is the perfect way to start your day.
The farmers market boasts the absolute best of Sedona, where you can shop around for the freshest vegetables, herbs, meat, eggs, and dairy.
Aside from fresh produce, you can also browse for homemade baked goods and handicrafts while enjoying the live music that fills the air.
Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s still a charming place to grab a coffee and simply enjoy the atmosphere!
Enjoy a Day at Slide Rock State Park
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June-August
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Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Families With Children, Adventure Seekers, Picnickers
Red Rock State Park isn’t the only state park for you to explore during your visit. Located less than 10 miles north of Sedona, Slide Rock State Park is the perfect attraction to escape the heat.
This naturally occurring slide is an exhilarating way to enter the cool waters of Oak Creek Canyon. Bring your inner child out to play and you’ll find the time just flying by while you splash around in the refreshing water!
If you want to take a minute and dry off, there are also several historic cabins and walking trails to explore.
A year-round market on-site offers any necessities you may need such as ice, water, snacks, and souvenirs. Several sheltered picnic areas are also available for use, too, for the ultimate day out!
Hike the Airport Mesa Loop Trail for Great Views
Peak Season
March Through May in the Spring, and September Through November in the Fall
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Scenic View Seekers, Nature Lovers, Photography Enthusiasts
The Airport Mesa Loop Trail is a little challenging, but it gives you a unique and unbeatable viewpoint of Airport Mesa and the surrounding landscape!
Described as being a medium-difficulty walk, the Airport Mesa Loop will have you hiking on level terrain before gently ascending to reach the tabletop trail.
With its high elevation, the loop gives you breathtaking, panoramic views of western Sedona and beyond.
Keep in mind that there’s very little shade on the trail and that it can be steep in parts. Be sure to know your own abilities and come prepared before embarking on this journey!
Visit Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
Peak Season
Spring
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Spiritual Seekers, Meditation Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Explorers, Cultural Explorers
The stupa is an important structure in Buddhism as it is thought to bring peace, healing, and spiritual power.
One of the rare instances of a stupa being erected in the West, Sedona’s Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is a hot spot for meditation, yoga, and spiritual practices.
If you’re visiting in a larger group, presentations are on offer from the local caretakers that will explain the history and importance of the stupa. There are also several independent guided meditation and religious mysticism tours available.
Amitabha Stupa is a significant location for many. As such, it’s important to not litter and to be generally respectful. Dogs and other pets are welcome at the park as long as they are on a leash!
Try Mountain Biking on the Local Trails
Peak Season
Spring, Fall
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Mountain Biking Enthusiasts, Outdoor Adventurers, Nature Lovers, Fitness Enthusiasts
There are many great trails in Sedona to ride your mountain bike on and race through the incredible landscape!
Bell Rock Trail is a great spot for beginners as it’s easy, wide, and fairly flat, while still having enough elevation changes for a fun challenge.
Riding on the Aerie to Cockscomb Trail is a great idea as well for novice to intermediate bikers, especially as it zooms you through canyon views and wooded areas.
For professionals and experienced thrillseekers, try the Hiline Trail for plateau views and an adrenaline-pumping descent. The Hangover trail will be a real test of your skills!
If you don’t have your equipment with you, don’t worry. There are several places in Sedona where you can rent mountain bikes or e-bikes!
Enjoy a Scenic Drive on Red Rock Scenic Byway
Peak Season
Spring, Fall
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Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Photography Aficionados, Spiritual Seekers
This relaxing, 15-mile cruise nicknamed the Red Rock Scenic Byway gives you some of the best views Red Rock Country has to offer — all from the comfort of your car!
The glowing red sandstone formations, stretches of flat desert, canyons, and plateaus studding the horizon make this one of the most picturesque stretches of highway in the country – if not the world!
This gorgeous nickname is a compliment to the Arizona State Route 179 that connects Sedona to Interstate 17.
Popular trailheads are found along the way, as well as plenty of places for a quick stop to snap photos and take in the landscape. It’s a driving route you’ll never get tired of!
Experience a Sedona Spiritual Retreat
Peak Season
Spring, Fall
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Spiritual Seekers, Meditation Enthusiasts, Holistic Wellness Practitioners, Nature Lovers
Looking for a proper getaway? Why not book a spiritual retreat?
With its reputation as a spiritual hotspot for people of all faiths and ideologies, Sedona is the perfect place to reconnect with the energy of the universe.
You’ll find your share of yoga and meditation centers, spiritual vortex pilgrimages, and many other wellness-oriented organizations during your visit!
And if you’re not interested in any of those, exploring the natural sights at your own pace and leisure also counts as a spiritual. With Sedona’s gorgeous landscape and breathtaking atmosphere, the experience is hard to match.
No matter where you currently are on your spiritual journey, Sedona may just be the holistic healing destination you’ve been searching for!
Visit the Verde Valley Wine Trail
Peak Season
Fall, Spring
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Wine Enthusiasts, Foodies, Travelers Interested in Viticulture
If you love a good vintage and want to sample the types of wine available in the region, then the Verde Valley Wine Trail invites you on a pilgrimage like no other.
This trail leads you to all the amazing wineries in north Arizona near Sedona, such as Clarkdale, Cottonwood, and Cornville.
Embarking on the journey through all 27 participating wineries in the area allows you to explore the nature and history of Red Rock Country with each sip. It’s an experience that’ll leave you wanting to take home the best bottles of wine possible!
To aid you in your quest, the official site provides a downloadable app or a trail map you can print out. With this, you’ll be able to choose which spots to visit (or, you can always stop at them all!).
Explore the Honanki Heritage Site
Peak Season
Spring-Fall
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History Buffs, Cultural Explorers, Archaeology Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers
Another archaeological treasure trove and the sister of Palatki Heritage Site, Honanki Heritage Site is teeming with the history of the Sinagua people.
This area was once the home of these people, and they left plenty of cultural artifacts that tell their story. During your visit, you’ll witness the Sinagua living spaces and their artwork engraved on the rocks.
Like its sister site, visiting Honanki requires a Red Rock Pass, but reservations aren’t necessary. Keep in mind that pets aren’t allowed in the area!
