Sedona, Arizona, is a stunning destination for families. With breathtaking red rock vistas, unique hiking trails, and plenty of places to stay, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. If you’re looking for things to do with your kids in Sedona, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve compiled a list of 10 exciting and fun activities that your whole family can enjoy. From outdoor adventures to kid-friendly tours, these are the best things to do in Sedona with kids.
Hiking
Sedona is home to some of the most stunning natural attractions in the country, and hiking is one of the best activities for families to experience these sights firsthand. Trails are available for all skill levels, so Sedona has something to offer whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging trek. For beginners, we recommend the Bell Rock Pathway, a 3.5-mile hike that’s relatively flat and offers incredible views of the surrounding rock formations.
For more experienced hikers, the West Fork Trail is a 7-mile trek through a beautiful canyon, featuring stunning views of the towering cliffs and crystal clear water. No matter which trails you choose, be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, snacks, and appropriate clothing and footwear. With its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, hiking in Sedona is a unique experience for the whole family.
Visiting the Grand Canyon
No family trip to Sedona would be complete without taking a day trip to visit one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders – the Grand Canyon. The Canyon is one of the most popular attractions in Arizona and offers endless opportunities for sightseeing and exploring with your kids.
The best way to experience the Grand Canyon is by taking a guided tour. You can choose between a scenic helicopter or airplane ride or a jeep tour that takes you through the rugged terrain of the Canyon. Both options offer incredible views and an experience that your kids will never forget. In addition to taking a guided tour, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon with your family.
You can hike the rim of the Canyon, which offers stunning views and is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. For those who are feeling adventurous, there are also opportunities for rafting and camping in the Canyon. Overall, visiting the Grand Canyon is a must-do activity for any family vacation to Sedona. With so many sightseeing and adventure opportunities available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and remember for years to come.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is a great option in Sedona if your family feels adventurous. Numerous companies offer guided rock climbing tours for families with children of all ages and experience levels. Some popular companies include Sedona Rocks Climbing, Arizona Climbing and Adventure School, and Sedona Adventure Tours. These tours offer a safe and exciting experience for the whole family to enjoy.
Rock climbing can provide kids a unique challenge and sense of accomplishment while also allowing them to explore the natural beauty of Sedona. Many rock formations in Sedona are perfect for climbing, such as Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Butte. Make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear for a successful climb.
Even if your family isn’t quite ready for rock climbing, Sedona still has plenty of options for outdoor activities. Don’t miss out on hiking, jeep tours, horseback riding, and stargazing to experience this desert town’s beauty fully.
Jeep Tours
One of the most exciting things to do in Sedona with your kids is to go on a Jeep tour. These tours allow you to explore the rugged terrain of the red rocks and experience breathtaking views that you won’t see anywhere else.
Many companies offer Jeep tours, and they all have their unique experiences. One of the most popular options is the Broken Arrow Tour, which takes you through the red rocks with steep climbs, narrow passages, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Kids will love the thrill of bouncing around in a Jeep, while parents will appreciate the guide’s stunning scenery and informative commentary.
Another option is the Diamondback Gulch Tour, which takes you through a scenic canyon with twists, turns, and obstacles. This tour offers plenty of photo opportunities and even includes a stop at a Native American ruins site, which will give you and your family an insight into the area’s history.
Make sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water for the ride, as it can get quite hot in the summer months. It’s also worth considering bringing a camera or GoPro to capture all of the action. Overall, Jeep tours are an excellent way to explore the beauty of Sedona while having fun with your family. Be sure to book in advance as tours can get busy during peak season.
Horseback Riding
Consider taking your kids on a horseback ride in Sedona for a true Western adventure. Plenty of local companies offer guided tours of the beautiful Sedona landscape on horseback. This is an especially great activity for families with younger children who may be unable to handle a long hike.
The tours typically last between 1-2 hours and can take you through stunning red rock formations and peaceful forested areas. Depending on the tour you choose, you may even get the chance to ride through creeks and over hills. Kids will love the thrill of riding a horse and the opportunity to connect with these beautiful animals.
Some tour companies even offer sunset rides, where you can watch the sun dip behind the mountains as you ride. Just make sure to wear appropriate shoes and clothing, as horseback riding can be a dusty and dirty activity. And of course, always follow your guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. Overall, horseback riding is a great activity for families who want to experience the beauty of Sedona in a unique and adventurous way.
Stargazing
One of the most awe-inspiring experiences you can have in Sedona is stargazing. With clear, dark skies and little light pollution, the stars in Sedona are simply stunning. You and your kids can enjoy the mesmerising sight of millions of stars twinkling above you and even catch a glimpse of planets, constellations, and shooting stars.
One of the best places to go stargazing in Sedona is the Sedona Star Gazing program, which takes place at the Sedona Heritage Museum. The program offers high-quality telescopes and a knowledgeable guide to help you and your kids spot celestial objects and learn about astronomy.
Another option for stargazing in Sedona is to simply find a quiet, dark spot away from the city lights. Some of the best places for stargazing include Red Rock State Park, the Oak Creek Canyon Vista, and the airport mesa.
Just remember to bring warm clothes, blankets, and snacks, and prepare for an unforgettable night under the stars.
Visiting Historic Sites
Sedona is a land filled with history and ancient tales. If you and your kids are fascinated by history, visiting some of Sedona’s historic sites will be the perfect way to learn more about this incredible destination. Here are a few historic sites to visit in Sedona:
- Montezuma Castle National Monument: Montezuma Castle is one of North America’s best-preserved ancient cliff dwellings. You can tour this historic site and learn more about the Sinagua people who inhabited it.
- Tuzigoot National Monument: This is another ancient Pueblo ruin located in Sedona. You can take a guided tour and learn more about the ancient civilization that is called Tuzigoot home.
- Palatki Heritage Site: This site is located in the Coconino National Forest and features well-preserved ancient cliff dwellings and rock art. You can take a guided tour and learn about the Native American people who lived in the area.
- Sedona Heritage Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Sedona and features exhibits on the early pioneers who settled the area.
Visiting these historic sites with your kids is a great way to learn more about the people who lived in Sedona thousands of years ago. It’s a great educational experience for kids and adults alike!
Playing in the Creek
There’s nothing quite like the fun and excitement of playing in a cool, refreshing creek on a hot summer day. Luckily, Sedona is home to several great creeks where your kids can splash around and explore the beautiful natural surroundings. One popular spot for creek play is Oak Creek Canyon, located just a few miles north of Sedona.
The canyon is filled with beautiful red rock formations, towering trees, and, of course, the glistening waters of Oak Creek. There are plenty of spots to pull over and let your kids explore the creek, skip stones, and even do a little fishing. Another great spot for creek play is West Fork Oak Creek Trail. This scenic trail follows the winding creek through a picturesque canyon filled with towering cliffs and vibrant fall foliage.
Along the way, your kids can scramble over rocks, splash through shallow pools, and take in the natural beauty of this stunning area. No matter where you play in the creek, be sure to bring sunscreen, water shoes, and plenty of snacks. And don’t forget to take plenty of pictures to remember this fun-filled day!
Picnicking
One of the simplest yet most enjoyable things you can do in Sedona with your kids is to have a picnic. Whether you plan to picnic in a designated park or on one of the scenic trails, you will surely have a great time bonding with your family and taking in the beauty of the red rock formations.
If you’re looking for the perfect picnic spot, check out Crescent Moon Picnic Site. Located along Oak Creek, this area has plenty of tables and grills, as well as a beautiful view of Cathedral Rock. Your kids can splash around in the creek, skip rocks, and enjoy the natural scenery while you prepare a delicious meal.
Another great option for a family picnic is at Red Rock State Park. With multiple picnic areas throughout the park, you’ll have plenty of space to spread out and relax. Make sure to bring some binoculars, as the park is home to many bird species and other wildlife that your kids will love spotting.
No matter where you choose to picnic in Sedona, make sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sunscreen. Bringing some activities to keep your kids entertained is also a good idea, such as a frisbee, ball, or card game. By relaxing and enjoying a picnic with your family, you’ll be making memories that will last a lifetime.
Exploring
One of the best things to do in Sedona with your kids is to explore the beautiful natural scenery. Take a leisurely walk through one of the many parks in Sedona or hike up to one of the area’s famous rock formations. Plenty of easy trails are suitable for families with young children.
Be sure to watch for the unique flora and fauna that can only be found in Sedona. Kids will love spotting lizards, birds, and maybe even snakes! Exploring Sedona’s natural wonders is not only a fun way to spend time with your family. It also a great way to teach your kids about the environment and the importance of conservation.
Exploring the city’s art galleries and local shops is also fun for families. Many galleries offer interactive exhibits and workshops that are perfect for children. Stop by the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village for a unique shopping experience that your kids will love. With so much to see and explore, you’ll never run out of things to do in Sedona with your family.