Sedona Day Trips: Top 5 Adventures That You Shouldn’t Miss

So, you want to make the most of your time in Sedona? Well, that’s very, very understandable! This Arizona treasure, famous for its striking red rock formations and intense energy, provides more than enough opportunities for exploration. Yet, did you know that some of the best adventures actually lie a little further afield? Believe it or not, these excursions allow you to discover even more of Arizona’s amazing landscape, adding more depth to your trip. Instead of being stuck in one place, it’s like you get multiple vacations rolled into one. Basically, I’m saying there are trips close enough for one day!

1. The Iconic Grand Canyon South Rim

A visit to the Grand Canyon is, for many, very high on their list, and yes, you can do this as a day trip from Sedona. Arguably, this natural wonder will likely leave you speechless with its vastness. Apparently, driving to the South Rim is more or less a scenic trip, it usually takes about two hours each way. Along the road, you can admire Arizona’s changing scenery. This is what makes the journey special. You might stop at viewpoints to stretch your legs and grab snapshots of the surrounding landscape.

Upon arriving at the Grand Canyon South Rim, multiple viewpoints provide panoramic sights. Mather Point, Yavapai Point and Hopi Point stand out among these. Each viewpoint lets you soak in the depth and magnificence of the canyon. Plus, it means you can experience different perspectives. When it gets so overwhelming in scale, and you start to consider time, space, geology – that can be something, can’t it? Maybe walk along the Rim Trail. In a way, the trail will likely offer you simpler views. Look for information on the canyon’s geology and history too. I mean, imagine standing somewhere, and trying to consider that it has been here for so long.

2. Montezuma Castle and Well

To be honest, for anyone curious about history and ancient cultures, Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well can easily make an amazing day trip. Actually, despite its name, Montezuma Castle is very, very far from being a castle. As a matter of fact, this is an amazing cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people sometime in the 12th century. Likewise, the monument is kept in pretty fantastic condition considering its age.

Just a bit further, Montezuma Well features yet another Sinagua site. What happened here? In short, that natural limestone sinkhole provided freshwater for irrigation. This location is pretty peaceful. When visiting, you can walk a short loop. That path allows you to view various ruins. It should teach you quite a bit about the ingenious engineering of this early civilization too. It really gives you an amazing idea of how ingenious ancient humans were when it came to working with their surroundings!

3. Prescott’s Whiskey Row and Historic Charm

If you’re after a day trip that’s a little a bit different, consider the drive up to Prescott. Prescott has kind of a colorful past and a charming atmosphere. In a way, it makes it pretty fun to explore. The heart of Prescott is the historic Whiskey Row, where saloons once thrived back in the wild west times. Very much of the original vibe is being felt even now.

I’m sure that strolling down Whiskey Row lets you sense that vibe. Today, some of these establishments are restaurants, stores, and galleries. They make up a pretty nice experience, don’t they? Why not visit the Sharlot Hall Museum? You’ll likely find that the museum brings Arizona’s history to life. There are multiple historic buildings. When you peek inside you will see displays. Plus, the views around the town’s central plaza are great to have a glimpse.

4. Jerome: The Wickedest Town in the West

The city of Jerome, a historic copper mining town perched high on Cleopatra Hill, provides visitors with an unusual and creative day excursion from Sedona. Because of its past, it has the nickname “The Wickedest Town in the West”. The truth is that it’s more bohemian and quaint now. Once a hotspot for miners, it suffered multiple hardships and was abandoned.

Then, Jerome was reborn as a haven for artists, craftspeople and tourists. Today, the town draws visitors to its boutique shops, art galleries, and tasting establishments. The Jerome State Historic Park showcases the history of mining. Basically, that gives guests a peek into the life in an age long gone. Besides this, you’ll want to check out the sweeping views of the Verde Valley. That view is so expansive! And if you’re interested in local legends, you’ll probably like to hear about a lot of stories about paranormal things.

5. Flagstaff and the Peaks

If you’re seeking something completely different to Sedona’s red rocks, a day trip north to Flagstaff might just be what you’re after. Typically, Flagstaff provides a total change of scenery. Instead of desert, it’s surrounded by the majestic San Francisco Peaks, dense forests, and the high-altitude of the Colorado Plateau. Basically, it makes for some lovely exploring.

On your drive there, I would visit the Lowell Observatory. Apparently, this is the location where Pluto was discovered. Check out the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park too. This one provides insights into the lifestyle of a notable local family around the start of the 1900s. Now, when you want to soak in the outdoors, take the scenic drive through the San Francisco Peaks. Actually, the routes have awesome views and hiking trails. I can tell you that these let you get away and see some more of Arizona’s natural beauty. Downtown Flagstaff also is cute, offering unique shops, breweries, and places to eat.