Sedona Day Trip: From Metro Phoenix / Scottsdale

Discover the Best of Sedona in a Day from Phoenix or Scottsdale

For those seeking a full-day adventure into Arizona’s iconic red rock landscape, this Sedona Day Trip offers a well-rounded experience. Priced at $265 per person, the tour captures the essence of Sedona’s stunning scenery, vibrant art scene, and local charm. With a 10-hour duration, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Sedona’s highlights without staying overnight.

Starting with hotel or resort pickup in the Phoenix metro area, the tour combines scenic drives, engaging stops, and flexible options to tailor your day. The small group size—limited to 5 participants—ensures a personalized experience, guided by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories and insights along the way. It’s an ideal choice for those who love scenic landscapes, art, and local culture, with enough time to explore comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $265 per person for a 10-hour trip from Phoenix or Scottsdale.
• Scenic Drive: Pass through the Black Canyon Hills of the Sonoran Desert with desert plant-life and mountain views.
• Iconic Views: Admire Bell Rock from the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a must-see photo spot.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village and Uptown Sedona’s old-west shops.
• Flexible Itinerary: Book early to customize your stops and experiences.
• Includes: Pickup at Phoenix-area hotels and bottled water, with lunch and wine tasting fees not included.

Scenic Drive Through the Black Canyon Hills of the Sonoran Desert

This tour begins with a scenic drive north from Phoenix through the Black Canyon Hills, part of the expansive Sonoran Desert. As the vehicle winds through this rugged landscape, you’ll enjoy views of desert flora and mountain scenery that set the tone for your day. This stretch offers a taste of Arizona’s diverse terrain, making for great photo opportunities along the way.

The drive itself is a highlight, with the opportunity to take in the vastness of the desert and the unique rock formations characteristic of the region. It’s a gentle start that primes visitors for the natural beauty awaiting in Sedona.

Bell Rock and the Chapel of the Holy Cross Panoramic Views

One of the most iconic sights on this tour is the view of Bell Rock from the Chapel of the Holy Cross. This architectural marvel offers a perfect-picture vantage point of one of Sedona’s most recognizable formations. The Chapel’s location on a hillside provides sweeping views of the surrounding red rock landscape.

Visitors often find this stop a highlight thanks to the spectacular scenery and the sense of tranquility the chapel provides. It’s an excellent chance to snap memorable photos and appreciate the natural artistry of Sedona’s landscape.

Exploring Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

The tour includes a visit to Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, a hub of local artistry and handmade crafts. This vibrant area combines scenic courtyards, art galleries, and boutique shops, all set amid traditional Southwestern architecture.

It’s a great place to browse for unique souvenirs, admire local artwork, or simply soak in the artistic atmosphere. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time to explore and find a special keepsake from your day in Sedona.

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Uptown Sedona: Old-West Shops and Local Eateries

Uptown Sedona offers a rustic, old-west vibe with an array of shops, restaurants, and local stores. This district is perfect for shopping for souvenirs, tasting regional cuisine, and people-watching. The tour provides an opportunity to enjoy lunch at one of Sedona’s acclaimed restaurants—though this is not included in the tour price.

Walking through Uptown, visitors can appreciate the blend of tourist-friendly shops with a touch of authentic Western charm. It’s a lively area that offers a break from the natural scenery with a taste of local culture.

Customized Experiences with a Flexible Itinerary

A key feature of this tour is its flexible itinerary. Booking early is recommended, as it allows the opportunity to select preferred stops or experiences. This flexibility makes the tour adaptable to different interests—whether you want more time at scenic vistas, art galleries, or local shops.

Since Sedona boasts many options, this tour’s setup encourages guests to explore their personal favorites. The guide helps facilitate this personalization, making each trip unique.

Professional Guides and Small Group Comfort

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide, known for being knowledgeable and personable. Several reviews praise guides such as Will, Jon, Noel, and Bobby for their friendly attitude, storytelling skills, and local insights.

With a small group limited to 5 participants, the experience remains intimate. This setup allows for better interaction, personalized attention, and more comfortable pacing—especially important during stops at popular sites like Bell Rock or Tlaquepaque.

Practical Details: Logistics and What to Bring

This tour includes pickup and drop-off at most Phoenix metro area hotels and resorts, with the exact location confirmed beforehand. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, as there may be walking at stops like Tlaquepaque or Uptown.

It’s important to note that luggage or large bags are not allowed on the tour, and smoking is prohibited. The tour offers bottled water to stay hydrated during the day, but lunch is not included, nor are wine tasting fees.

Pacing, Duration, and Booking Flexibility

Spanning 10 hours, this tour is designed to cover a lot of ground while maintaining a relaxed pace. Travelers can confirm availability to find a suitable starting time, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The reserve now, pay later option provides flexibility for travelers to book without immediate payment, making it easier to plan around other arrangements.

Why Choose This Sedona Day Trip?

This tour’s combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and personalized experience makes it stand out. The expert guides and small group size ensure a tailored, engaging day. The inclusion of signature sites like Bell Rock and artistic venues like Tlaquepaque makes it a comprehensive Sedona introduction.

While lunch and wine tasting are additional expenses, the overall value lies in the curated experience, stunning vistas, and the ability to explore Sedona in a single day.

Suitable for Who?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Sedona who want a guided overview without the hassle of planning. It also suits those who appreciate art, scenic landscapes, and personalized attention. Travelers who prefer small groups and flexible itineraries will find this tour particularly appealing.

Sedona Day Trip from Phoenix or Scottsdale: A Well-Rounded Day in Arizona

In summary, this Sedona day trip offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, art, and local flavor within a 10-hour window. The tour’s small group setting, expert guides, and scenic highlights make it a reliable choice for those eager to see Arizona’s famed red rocks and cultural spots.

While the lunch and wine tasting are separate costs, the inclusion of water, hotel pickup, and the chance to explore at your own pace add to its appeal. It’s perfect for adventurers, art lovers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive Sedona experience in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Sedona day trip?
The tour costs $265 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It is a 10-hour experience, starting from pickup in the morning.

What locations are visited on this tour?
Stops include Bell Rock from the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, and the Uptown Sedona shopping district.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are many options available during the stop in Uptown.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour features a live English-speaking guide known for being friendly and knowledgeable.

What should I bring?
Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and bring water; large bags and smoking are not permitted.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 2 years old are free, but specific accessibility details are not provided.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic views, artistic stops, and small group size offers a personalized, well-paced day in Sedona.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Booking early allows for customization and preferred stops, making the experience adaptable to different interests.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby