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10 Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona for First Time Visitors

If you're planning your first visit to Sedona, Arizona, you may be wondering what there is to do. The answer is, plenty, but if you've never been there before, it's nice to have a few pointers so you can build an itinerary of fun and entertainment before you go. Of the many things that you'll discover to do in Sedona, Arizona, these are the top ten that we recommend.

1. Go to the Airport Mesa

Visit the Airport Mesa at sunrise or sunset for the most beautiful displays that nature has to offer. For starters, this location offers gorgeous panoramic views. The sights are amplified by the unique plays of the sun near its rise and setting with vivid colors that you won't find anywhere else. Be prepared to either take photos or videos so you can share your amazing visual experiences with others when you return. The views are well worth the trip.

2. Visit the Red Rock Magic Trolley

Trolleys are fun and exciting wherever you find them, but there's something extra special about the RRMT. By taking the trolley, you're given a magnificent tour of Sedona and the surrounding area, and you'll see the entire town in a short period of time. The trolley runs through town and gives you a chance to spot some unique eateries, shops and other areas that are pointed out by the narrated tours offered by the trolley operators.

3. Take a Jeep Tour

One of the best ways to have a unique adventure in Sedona is to sign up for a Jeep Tour. Some of theme are themed and they're led by a guide so you won't miss the best things that are out there on the Jeep Trails. These tours are especially exciting for history buffs because you can tour the Ancient ruins, or take thee Soldier's Pass Trail and you have the choice of driving the Jeep yourself or having a guide chauffeur you around the area.

4. Hike the Bell Rock Pathway

Sedona is filled with amazing hiking trails. This isn't the most challenging trail in the area, but it isn't the easiest either. It's more along the lines of medium in difficulty. The local scenery on the pathway is truly amazing, but you'll want to make certain that you're wearing a good pair of walking shoes, clothing that is light and comfortable and you'll need to bring water along to stay hydrated.

5. Do an ATV Red Rock Tour

Everyone that visits Sedona should go on a Red Rock tour. There are multiple different tour options available via Jeep or ATV. This is one of the most highly rated tours in the area. You're welcome to drive an ATV while following a guide through the Arizona wilderness that is just west of town. Youo'll hae the time of your life and see some interesting landscape and perhaps even a lizard or other type of wildlife while you're out there.

6. Visit the Amitabha Stupa

This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sedona. Amitabha Stupa is a Buddhist shrine that is open daily from sunup until sundown. There is no charge to visit the shrine. The scenery around the shrine is gorgeous so you'll want to take plenty of pictures.

7. Have a spiritual experience at the Vortexes

There are people who travel to Sedona just for the purposes of visiting the Vortexes. What are they? They're cyclones of energy that arise from the earth. Anyone standing near them can feel their energy. The vortexes are located near a set collection of rock formations with interesting shapes that are believed to emit this special energy. It's free to visit this attraction.

8. Go through the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

This is a free activity and you'll find the village located at the intersection of routes 89A and 179. It's a huge outdoor shopping center in the shape and theme of a Mexican Village. It's like stepping into a traditional Mexican village with stucco walls, mosaic fountains and cobblestone streets. You'll find a variety of art galleries, old fashioned and new age shops and a plethora of interesting places to eat.

9. Visit the Palatki Heritage Site

This historical site features ancient cliff dwellings that shows visitors what it was like for the Hopi Indian tribe who lived there in the 1150 to 1350 ages. These cave dwellings are the largest around and are complete with pictographs and guided tours that relay the history of the ancient people who once inhabited the caves.

10. Relax in the famous Spas of Sedona

There are plenty of spas in Sedona. You can find anything from a basic massage, to salt scrubs and more advanced spa treatments and therapies. Some feature Native American inspired treatments, others are new age but all of them are relaxing and rejuvenating.

Benjamin Smith

Written by Benjamin Smith

Benjamin Smith is one of the managing editors of Moneyinc. Ben's been focusing on the auto and motorcycle sector since 2005. He's written over 1000 articles in the space and continues to learn about it each day. His favorite car is "any Bugatti" and he's a die hard Harley Davidson fan.

Read more posts by Benjamin Smith

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