1 Day In Sedona On A Budget: An Itinerary Of The Most Awesome Things To See & Do!

People ask me if 1 day in Sedona is enough. My honest answer is no, 1 day in Sedona is not long enough. If there’s any way you can stretch your trip to two days, you’d be able to see so much more than in just 1 day in Sedona. And believe me, there’s SO much to see and do! If you must stick to just 1 day in Sedona, make it a long day so you can cram in as much as possible. 

The other thing people ask me is if you can have fun in Sedona on a budget. The answer is yes! Sedona is an outdoor paradise with so many outdoor (free) activities to choose from! 

The great outdoors are free, people! I also have ideas for you on great happy hours and other things to do in Sedona that you can do and still keep your budget in check. 

Believe me, I’ve found some amazing, iconic things to do in Sedona that won’t cost you a fortune. Including great food spots. 

First off, if you’ve never been to Sedona, you are in for a rare and magnificent treat. Sedona is all about the views. Everywhere, and I mean everywhere you turn, nature’s splendor is awaiting. 

I never get tired of those incredible views. The magical red rocks and mystical energy of Sedona are but two reasons why Sedona is on everyone’s radar. It’s unbelievably beautiful here!

My List Of Best Things To Do In 1 Day In Sedona On A Budget- a loose Sedona Itinerary

Hiking In Sedona – Best Hikes for 1 Day In Sedona

The best places in Sedona are outdoors. There are tons of awesome hiking trails to try in Sedona. 

But if you’re only there for 1 day, you probably want shorter hikes so you have time to do a little other exploring as well. Hiking is for sure the most awesome way to experience all those beautiful red rocks! 

But beware. If you’re not a people lover, you could have issues because Sedona trails are crawling with humans. Like at no time ever was I on a trail alone. 

Besides the fact that I was with my husband, there was always at least one other person around me hiking. There’s no getting around it – Sedona is a popular place. Now I didn’t go at the crack of dawn, but we did go around 8:00 a.m. ish, which is pretty early. 

And it was a chilly 40 degrees on some mornings and there were still people up in my grill if that tells you anything. 

But there weren’t tons and tons of people around like some people say – although Devil’s Bridge was pretty busy. Honestly I was O.K. with other hikers being around and it was no big deal to me. 

But if you’re way into solitude then you could have issues. Just sayin.

I am by no means an expert hiker. I like flat hiking with some scrambling or uphill portions but definitely don’t want to be going vertical the entire time, if you know what I’m saying.

My favorite hikes are moderate hikes. Nothing too extreme here, folks! Here are a couple of my favorite short hikes in Sedona. 

Make sure you take plenty of water no matter which hikes you do. Take more water than you think you’ll need. You won’t regret it.

Devil’s Bridge

My favorite short hike in Sedona is everybody’s favorite short hike, or so it seems. Devil’s Bridge is all the rage and probably the most popular hike right now. This one was on my bucket list, so even though so many other people hike it, we couldn’t NOT do it when we were there. I’m so glad we did!!  

The largest sandstone arch in Arizona, Devil’s Bridge is located in Coconino National Forest within Sedona and is spectacular. 

Overall this hike is pretty chill that’s kinda challenging and kinda not, but all around fun and beautiful the entire way. When we finally made it to the bridge it was just a super exhilarating feeling. 

The view from the bridge is absolutely breathtaking and this hike is totally worth doing. 

We did not go early. Contrary to what everybody says to do, we had other things to do in the morning so didn’t get started out to Devil’s Bridge until around noon. Gasp! 

And of course we got to the parking area and saw the “lot full” sign. But, we decided to drive up in the lot anyway because, why not? You never know if you don’t try, right? Right. 

There were a few open parking spots in the “closed” lot, so yay for us. My point is just because the lot says “full”, try it anyway. It won’t hurt. 

And if you want to go to Devil’s Bridge at noon or later, just go! Yeah it might be super busy, but then again it might not because everyone might be trying to “go early”. 

The actual hiking trail was mostly flat for most of the way. It’s true that from the Dry Creek Vista Parking lot, you do go about a mile before you hit the actual trailhead. 

From there we walked Jeep Road to the trailhead. Once at the trailhead, the red sandy clay trail is very well-defined and in great shape. The total hiking distance is anywhere from 4 – 6 miles depending on where you get parking. Devil’s Bridge took us about 2.5 hours total.

Walking the red dirt road and trail was awesome. The trail is super well marked – in case you are alone you won’t have any problems finding your way. 

The most difficult parts of the trail are as you near the bridge, you’ll scramble up a couple of rocky staircases. These were super steep, but short. 

And Now I Have To Give My PSA Even Though You Didn’t Ask! 

I saw some people scrambling up while carrying their dogs…and a couple with a baby – as in an infant in a sling.

People. Don’t make your poor frightened puppy scramble up those red rock staircases with you! Do you want an even more neurotic dog?? 

Seriously. Some people had small dogs in belt bag type carriers and they seemed fine. But those big pups were petrified going up and down those rocks. Not Cool!  

And I’m all for hiking with the family. But those rock staircases are super steep. One slip and you’re down – which is fine if it’s just you, but your babe could get totally squished!

I personally would stop before going vertical if I had a baby or dog in tow.

Airport Mesa Loop 

Another short and enjoyable hike is at the Airport Mesa Loop. The Sedona Airport Loop Trail is a 3.2 mile loop that is very popular for its great views. 

The trail goes very close to the edge of the mountain so you really have to pay attention. And make sure you’re wearing hiking boots. The trail is rocky and narrow so I could see falls happening quite easily. 

The views are amazing. Depending on exactly how fast you go, I’d plan on 2.5-3 hours for the loop. We again lucked out with parking here, too. 

This time we did get an early start and managed to snag one of the last spots in the small lot. If you don’t get so lucky, continue up the road where there is a larger space where you can park for a few dollars. 

Other Popular short Trails To Consider are Cathedral Rock Trail, Bell Rock Trail, and Teacup Trail

1 Day in Sedona: Chapel Of The Holy Cross

780 Chapel Road

Sedona, AZ 

This is a sight to behold. You may think a church is a church is a church. You would be wrong! Chapel of the Holy Cross is the uber famous Roman Catholic chapel built directly into the side of the red rocks of Sedona.

Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

Cost:  Free 

 It’s only a short drive from downtown Sedona to Chapel of The Holy Cross so it’s super convenient. But even if it wasn’t, this is one of the “don’t miss” kind of things. You must go see the chapel. 

The views from the chapel are incredible. I like to go sit in the chapel and just “be” for a while. It’s also nice to light a candle in memory of a loved one. If you can go at sunset, you’re in for a really special treat, but anytime is awe-inspiring. 

There is no charge for admission to the chapel or for parking. There is also a small gift shop that has some beautiful handmade items. I picked up a cool handmade cross last time we were there.

One thing to note is that the parking fills up fast so the best time to go is early or late. And it’s a pretty steep walk up the hill to the chapel, but there are guided golf carts that will give you a lift if you need one. 

1 Day in Sedona: Vortex Exploring

What even is a “vortex” you ask? I had the same question so I did some sleuthing. A vortex is an area of the earth that, due to special electromagnetic fields, gives off a special kind of energy that helps with healing, energy, enlightenment and even deepens creativity. Some say the entire region of Sedona is one big vortex. 

Others say there are specific areas within Sedona where these vortex sites are. You can be the judge. If you’re open to the vortex properties, see what feelings you notice while in Sedona.

 If you want to check out a specific vortex area, the Sedona Airport Vortex via the Airport View Trail is about 1.5 miles and takes 1 – 2 hours. It’s the perfect place for meditation or yoga.

1 day in Sedona: Sedona Trolley Tour

276 N State Route 89A, Suite B

Sedona, AZ 86336

Cost:  Less than $25

While not free, the Sedona Trolley Tours offer an affordable way to see some of the top sites in Sedona. It’s kind of like having your own private guided tour because all the tours are fully narrated so you’ll get the scoop on the Sedona hot spots. 

Taking a trolley tour is a great way to get the lay of the land. So the Sedona Trolley is a perfect option for your first time in Sedona.

:More Must Do’s for 1 Day in Sedona: Drive up Oak Creek Canyon 

The stretch of Highway 89A that runs between Uptown Sedona and the I-17 turnoff to Flagstaff is a fantastic scenic drive. In fact, it’s one of the most scenic drives in the United States. 

With red rock formations and amazing views at most every turn, the Oak Creek Canyon drive is not to be missed. 

Stop at the Oak Creek Canyon Vista overlook at the top to get great views of red rock country! Allow at least an hour to enjoy the drive, photo ops along the road and the views.

Happy Hour!

Happy hour is always a good idea, but it’s one of the best things to do in Sedona! Know why happy hour is so great in Sedona?

Because they start early – some of them as early as 2:00. That’s like a late lunch in my book. Works for me. 

Sedona has plenty of good happy hours at local restaurants where you can score tasty apps and a cocktail or two. 

In my opinion, a late afternoon happy hour is the perfect way to take care of lunch and dinner. Just eat a late-ish breakfast, go hiking and exploring, then roll into happy hour around 4:00. 

That’s what we did and it worked out perfectly and helped us to stick to our budget. Here are a few Sedona happy hours we liked.

Mesa Grill

Who doesn’t love some prickly pear margaritas? Take your drinks to the patio and watch the planes come in! Try my favorite Prickly Pear Margarita, maybe with some scrumptiously fresh ceviche.

 Mesa Grill, located at the Sedona airport, is the perfect spot to enjoy a beautiful Sedona sunset. Go early because this place gets packed. Enjoy happy hour daily at the Airport Mesa Grill. 

Oak Creek Brewery & Grill

Oak Creek Brewery & Grill  has an entire happy hour menu – it’s huge! Called their mid-day menu, you’ll find good deals on appetizers, pizzas, burgers and salads. Next time I’m having the vortex platter!

Picazzo’s

Look no further than Picazzzo’s for tasty apps and drinks and awesome happy hour deals at the bar. We grabbed a spot at the bar and had a drink within 5 minutes. 

We liked the fact that there were quite a few locals in the bar chatting with us – always a good sign! 

Hudson’s

Like I said, It’s all about the view in Sedona and a view you’ll get if you go to Hudson’s and sit on their incredible deck. 

Enjoy a cocktail, nosh on some apps, or do both! Hudson’s has great specials on food and drink – some under $15.

Sedona Shopping: Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village

336 State Route 179

Sedona, AZ 86336

Cost:  Free 

Open Daily 10-5, with some days until 6.

Cobblestone streets, Spanish style adobe buildings set around shaded courtyards and fountains, the grounds at Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village are mesmerizing.

What was originally conceived as an artist colony, along with artists, today you’ll find art galleries, shops, and restaurants, too. Stroll around and see what catches your eye.

2 Days In Sedona

If you have 2 days in Sedona, there are lots of things you can add to your 1 day itinerary. More hiking is always a good idea. And there are lots more places for good hiking. 

If you want to go a little outside Sedona proper, try hiking at either Red Rock State Park or Slide Rock State Park.

If you’re looking for more of a day trip from Sedona consider the nearby towns of Jerome or Cottonwood. 

Jerome, Arizona

The drive up the mountain to Jerome is reason enough to go in my opinion, and once you get there you’ll find plenty of quirky shops and restaurants along main street.  We had delicious burgers at Haunted Hamburger!!

 And look into the very interesting, spooky history of Jerome while you’re there. The hotels might be haunted. Check out my other article: Best Jerome Arizona Hotels That May Be Haunted!

Cottonwood, Arizona

Cottonwood is another great option for a quick trip near Sedona. Only 17 miles away, Cottonwood is home to many wineries along the Verde River. 

We loved Page Springs Cellars. For more hiking options as well as horseback riding and fishing, check out Dead Horse State Park. 

A very small entrance fee gets you into the park where you can explore for hours. We had a great time on our trail ride here.

1 Day In Sedona FAQ’s

How To Get To Sedona

Sedona is easy to get to. We flew into Phoenix and made the drive to Sedona after spending a few days in Scottsdale. A lot of people do the same, making Sedona a super popular day trip, even though 1 day is not nearly long enough to truly appreciate Sedona. 

It only took about an hour and a half from the resort we stayed at in Scottsdale. From Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, it’s about a 2 hour drive up I-17.  

Sedona Weather

The weather in Sedona is one reason it’s such a great place, especially in winter. I like going to Sedona in the winter. The temperatures are chilly by Arizona standards but to me, being from the Midwest, 50’s and 60’s in December is perfect. 

It’s warm enough to not need a bulky coat – layers are perfect. Plus, with temperatures this mild, no major sweating while hiking which is awesome in my book! 

Some people are surprised that the weather in Sedona is so much different than the weather in Phoenix/Scottsdale, since the two cities are so close together. But Sedona is at a way higher elevation – 4300 feet versus Scottsdale’s elevation at around 1200 feet. 

So Sedona is always cooler than down in the valley. That’s why Sedona is so popular with locals who like to drive up to escape the summer heat. 

Not that Sedona doesn’t get hot in the summer, because it does. Just not AS hot as Phoenix.

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