28 Best Things to Do in Sedona with Kids in 2024

LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN SEDONA WITH KIDS? 

We are here to help! We have been traveling to Sedona with our kids since 2020 and have been able to explore many of the kid-friendly activities and hiking trails in the area. 

To help, we have compiled this list of kid-friendly things to do in Sedona from our experience visiting this beautiful area in Northern Arizona throughout the years. Even if you aren’t a big hiking family, there are easy trails you can enjoy or other things to do all together. 

Hopefully, this list will help answer the question of what to do in Sedona with kids and is helpful in planning your family vacation there. It is such a beautiful place, and we hope you enjoy your visit there.

Hiking in Sedona with Kids

Hiking in Sedona, Arizona with kids is a blast. There are so many different hiking trails that cater to all levels of hiking experience and ability. Hiking is one of the best things to do in Sedona with kids, in my opinion. It gets them out exploring the beautiful area.

A lot of hikes in the area require a parking permit called the Red Rock Pass. The pass is $5 per day or $15 per week. You can purchase the pass at most of the trailheads or at the Sedona Visitor Center.

You can also use the America the Beautiful Interagency Pass instead of the Red Rock Pass. We have this pass and use it so many times per year. It lets you into all the US National Parks and a bunch of other places throughout the country.

America the Beautiful

This pass is also great to use if you’re visiting any of the national parks in Arizona, like the Grand Canyon, Saguaro, or Petrified Forest. There are also other sites in Sedona, like Montezuma Castle National Monument, that are included as well.

Kid-Friendly Hikes in Sedona

If you are looking for easy hikes to do with your kids, there are lots of great trails in the area. Here are our top picks for easy hikes suitable for young hikers:

  • West Fork: This is a flat and easy hike along the banks of the river.
  • Red Rock State Park: There are lots of trails here, plus a great visitor center with exhibits and a junior ranger program.
  • Bell Rock Loop: If you want a little bit of a challenge, you can hike up Bell Rock. If not, you can take the flat and easy trail around the base of Bell Rock.

If you are up for a little more of a hike and are okay with a little elevation gain, here are our top picks for medium-rated hikes for more experienced hikers:

  • Cathedral Rock: This hike is amazing at sunset, but you may want to head down just a bit before sunset so the kids aren’t hiking down in the dark.
  • Devil’s Bridge: This is a fun hike with a great photo opportunity at the end.
  • Robbers Roost Cave: For a hidden gem, check out this cave. Having 4×4 or high clearance is recommended to drive to the trailhead.

1. Bell Rock Hike

  • Length: 1 mile
  • Elevation Gain: 400 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Route: Out and Back
  • Trailhead: Bell Rock Trailhead

This is one of my favorite places to go hiking in Sedona with kids. There is not a long walk to get to the highlight of the hike, and Bell Rock is such a fun place to explore. On the Bell Rock hike, there is an established trail part of the way up, but from there, you get to explore and make your own way up as far as you would like, giving you lots of flexibility in your round-trip mileage.

Bell Rock is also known for being one of the Sedona vortex sites. There are even some kid-friendly vortex tours for travelers looking to explore the energy surrounding Sedona.

Hiking Bell Rock is one of the fun things to do in Sedona with kids
If you’re looking for kid friendly things to do in Sedona, exploring the Bell Rock Pathway is a great choice.

My twins, who were six during our last visit, loved climbing and exploring on the Bell Rock Climb. They love rock climbing, so this was a great place for them to explore.

If you don’t want to climb up Bell Rock, there is a really nice trail going around the base of Bell Rock and nearby Courthouse Butte. My kids loved this trail because it is pretty easy, and they could run and explore to their hearts’ content. They even got into some rock stacking on the side of the trail.

Parking at Bell Rock can be kind of tricky because it is a very popular trailhead. It is best to get there early in the day if you can during the busy season.

2. Cathedral Rock Hike

  • Length: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 690 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Route Type: Out and Back
  • Trailhead: Cathedral Rock Trailhead

If you only have time for one hike in Sedona and you’re okay hiking around some heights, this should be the hike you choose. We absolutely love hiking at Cathedral Rock. This is one of our favorite family activities in Sedona, AZ.

Hiking Cathedral Rock is one of our favorite things to do with kids in Sedona
My family hiking Cathedral Rock during one of our first visits to Sedona.

With that being said, it is a good idea to understand this hike has some serious elevation gain, but it is pretty short. There are some places where you have to scramble up rocks on your hands and knees.

We hiked Cathedral Rock for the first time when our twins were four years old. They handled it like champs. There were some places where they needed help getting up a large step or navigating some of the parts where you had to scramble.

View from the top of Cathedral Rock in Sedona with kids
The views from Cathedral Rock are spectacular.

Also, at the top, there are very large drop-offs. We did not ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe at the top, but you should exercise caution at the top. The top of Cathedral Rock is a beautiful place to watch the sunset.

If you do stay up for sunset, you will want to make sure you bring a headlamp so you can keep your hands free during your climb down.

3. Devil’s Bridge Trail

  • Length: 2 to 4 miles (Depending on 4×4 availability)
  • Elevation Gain: 450 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Route: Out and Back
  • Trailhead: Devil’s Bridge Trailhead (Mescal Trailhead without 4×4)

Another one of the fun things to do in Sedona, Arizona with kids is hiking to Devil’s Bridge. This is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona, Arizona, and for a great reason. Everyone wants to get their picture taken on top of this famous arch.

If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can park at the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead, which makes the hike about 2 miles. This section of the hike does have all of the elevation gain, but it is doable for kids.

Hiking to Devil's Bridge is one of the fun things to do in Sedona with kids who enjoy a more challenging hike.
Devil’s Bridge is one of the top attractions in Sedona.

My twins hiked to the top of Devil’s Bridge when they were six. We did have to take some extra breaks climbing up because of the elevation gain, but it was totally doable for them.

If you do not have a 4×4 vehicle, you can park at the Mescal Trailhead or park in the parking lot along Dry Creek Road. We prefer hiking over from Mescal Trailhead because it is much more scenic and entertaining. The Dry Creek Road is a 4×4 road, so you will have cars passing you along the dusty road.

4. Soldier Pass Trail

  • Length: 1.1 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 108 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Route Type: Out and Back
  • Trailhead: Soldier Pass Trailhead   

If you’re looking for an easier trail without the elevation gain, this is a wonderful hike and one of the best fun things to do in Sedona with kids. The section of trail from the trailhead to Seven Sacred Pools is really easy, and my youngest daughter, who was two at the time of the hike, almost did the whole thing by herself.

The highlights along the trail are the Devil’s Kitchen, which is a large sinkhole, and Seven Sacred Pools. This is one of our favorite kid-friendly hikes in Sedona.

Hiking to the Seven Sacred Pools is one of the fun things to do in Sedona with kids
The Soldier Pass Trail is the perfect place for young hikers and stunning views.

The Soldier Pass Trailhead parking lot is very small, holding only 14 vehicles. This does make parking here very tricky. It is also in a residential neighborhood, so there is no overflow parking. The parking lot gates are open from 8 am to 6 pm. There are other parking lots you can use and connect over, but this does make the trail longer.

Soldier Pass Cave

If you are up for a longer hike along this trail, you can continue on to Soldier Pass Cave. The cave is really cool, but it does add some distance and elevation gain.

  • Length: 4.5 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 810 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate

The trail continues past Seven Sacred Pools to the cave. My twins, who were six at the time, did this hike with a few extra breaks, and we had a lot of fun exploring the cave.

Soldier Pass Cave in Sedona, Arizona
There is quite a scramble to get into Soldier Pass Cave.

If you can’t park in the Soldier Pass Trailhead parking lot, you can park at the Brins Mesa Trailhead. It adds about a mile to the hike.

5. Birthing Cave

  • Length: 2.1 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 250 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy (Except for climb into the cave)
  • Route: Out and Back
  • Trailhead: Long Canyon Trailhead

One of our favorite kid-friendly hikes in Sedona is the Birthing Cave. The trail is really flat and wide, giving kids lots of opportunities to run on the trail and explore. The only steep part of the trail is the short distance climb into the cave. This climb is pretty steep, and younger children will probably need some help.

The Birthing Cave in Sedona is a kid friendly hiking trail
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the entire Birthing Cave.

Once you are in the cave, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Sedona area and explore the cave. My kids had a great time trying to climb up the walls and sliding back down. There is also a small seat in the back of the cave that older kids can try climbing up to.

If you’re looking for an easy hike with a beautiful view at the end, this is one of the best things for kids to do in Sedona. We really enjoyed this hike.

6. Fay Canyon Trail

  • Length: 2 miles
  • Elevation Gain: Minimal
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Route: Out and Back
  • Trailhead: Fay Canyon Trailhead

This is another great hike that is perfect for younger families or those wanting a really easy hike. This is a really nice trail that goes through the bottom of Fay Canyon. Throughout the hike, there are beautiful views of the red rocks. There is some shade on this trail, which is nice for days when the weather is warmer.

Fay Canyon Trail in Sedona, AZ
You can enjoy beautiful scenery on this hike that is great for young kids.

The trail ends with an “End of Trail” sign, but you can continue walking up the canyon for a better view of Fay Canyon. This is a great place to let your kids explore and climb on the rocks. You can also take an offshoot from this trail to see the Fay Canyon arch.

This is one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Sedona.

7. Airport View Trail

  • Length: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 242 feet
  • Route Type: Out and Back
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Airport View Trail is one of the best things to do in Sedona for kids because the views are amazing, and it is really convenient to get to. It is just a few minutes from the downtown area. It is a great hike to enjoy at sunset because you are up a bit higher from the city, so the views are amazing.

The Airport View Trail is one of the family-friendly things to do in Sedona, AZ
The Airport Vista is one of the Sedona vortex sites and has great views at sunset.

This is a fun trail to enjoy, and it is an out-and-back trail, so you can walk for as long as you’d like. There are a few rocks on the trail to keep an eye out for, but besides that, it is a great hike for small kids.

The west side of the trail is easier to navigate than the east side, which has some rocks to scramble over. Besides this small section, it is a really easy trail to hike.

8. Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park is a great place to visit in Sedona for kids. There are lots of great educational opportunities there, as well as some fun hiking trails. The trails aren’t overly scenic like Cathedral Rock, but they are really easy trails that everyone can enjoy.

One of our favorite things to do in Sedona with kids is participating in the Red Rock State Park Junior Ranger program.
Your kids can earn a junior ranger badge at Red Rock State Park.

There is a small visitor center that our whole family really enjoyed. There were some fun exhibits and lots of opportunities to learn about the wildlife that lives in Sedona, Arizona. Your kids can also participate in the Junior Ranger program to earn a badge. My kids just love adding a badge to their collection.

There are also daily nature walks with guided naturalists who are specialists in this area of Arizona. This is a great educational opportunity. They also have guided bird walks on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which is a lot of fun.

Within Red Rock State Park, there are ten developed trails you can explore. You can walk, bike, or ride a horse through the park. There are about 5-miles of interconnected trails you can explore. Additionally, there are also nice picnic areas outside the visitor center.

Red Rock State Park in Sedona, Aizona
There are lots of family-friendly hiking trails in Sedona.

The Eagle’s Nest Loop will take you to the highest point in the park, which has beautiful views of the surrounding Red Rocks and nearby Cathedral Rock. We walked up to the House of Apache Fire and enjoyed that short walk through the park.

Things to Do in Sedona with Kids Besides Hiking

I know I have covered a lot of hiking trails, but if you’re looking for a vacation with minimal hiking, don’t worry! There is so much to do in Sedona if you don’t want to hike. There are lots of family things to do in Sedona that don’t involve hiking.

9. Railroad Adventure

Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure in Sedona, AZ
If you need to beat the heat, the Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure is a fun activity.

The Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure will take you through the beautiful Southwest desert. You can pick between a vintage train car (with air-conditioning) or an open-air viewing car. Throughout the four-hour tour, you will get lots of opportunities to take in beautiful views as well as lots of historic sites.

Some of the things you can expect to see along the way are the Verde River, Sinagua cliff dwellings, and old mining sites. There is also lots of wildlife in the area, like bald eagles and antelope.

This is a really fun activity that the entire family will enjoy. It makes for a very relaxing day. This is a nice activity on a hot day because of the air-conditioned train cars. There is also champagne and appetizers included with some tickets depending on the class of tickets you buy.

Check Prices for Railroad Tickets Here

10. Out of Africa Wildlife Park

If your kids love seeing animals, the Out of Africa Wildlife Park is a really fun thing to do. It is about 40 minutes outside of downtown Sedona, so keep that in mind. The park takes about four to five hours to go through because there are lots of fun things to do there.

Children will enjoy visiting the Out of Africa Wildlife Park near Sedona
The Out of Africa Wildlife Park is a great stop for animal-lovers.

Out of Africa has exotic animals that are a lot of fun to see, as well as lots of great experiences and hands-on activities. The Tiger Splash show is always a big hit. You get to watch the Bengal and Siberian tigers interact in large swimming pools.

You can also go on a 30-minute African Bush Safari, where you’ll see lots of beautiful animals roaming. The Wildlife Preserve is another fun place to see animals in large and spacious habitats.

11. Jerome

Jerome is a fun town to explore that is about 40 minutes from downtown Sedona. It is a famous ghost town in Arizona, and historically, it was the largest producer of copper, gold, and silver in Arizona. It sits up on a hill, has beautiful views, and is amazing at sunset.

There are lots of fun historical stops in the town, and there is a fun downtown area with lots of specialty shops and yummy restaurants. There are also lots of beautiful art galleries.

Jerome, Arizona
Jerome is a quirky, fun day trip from Sedona.

Ghost Tour in Jerome

A really fun way to get to explore and get to know this historic town is by going on a ghost tour in Jerome. This ghost and history walking tour will take you through the town’s haunted past. The tour uses paranormal equipment to prove its stories.

The tour guides share a bunch of great historical knowledge about Jerome and Arizona as a whole.

Check Prices for Jerome Ghost Tours Here

12. Rainbow Trout Farm               

One of the fun things to do in Sedona with families is visiting the Rainbow Trout Farm. It is a great activity if you are on a budget or want to take your kids fishing but are not sure how to get started. The farm has two small ponds and provides everything you need for a great experience, including fishing poles and bait.

Rainbow Trout Farm near Sedona, Arizona
Young fishermen will enjoy a visit to the Rainbow Trout Farm.

There is a $1 entrance fee, and then you pay for whatever fish you keep based on the length of the fish.

The farm stocks rainbow trout, which are grown from eggs right on the property. Along with fishing amenities, there are picnic tables, BBQs, bathrooms, fish food dispensers, and light snacks for sale.   

13. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Visiting Montezuma Castle National Monument is a great thing to do with kids in Sedona if you want to explore Native American Culture. Guests under 15 are free, and it is included in the America the Beautiful Pass, making it free for everyone. If you do not have the America the Beautiful Pass, it is $10 to go. The pass also includes admission to the Tuzigoot Monument.

Montezuma Castle is one of the fun things to do in Sedona with kids
Montezuma Castle National Monument is one of the best educational Sedona family activities.

This national monument is a cliff dwelling from the pre-Columbian period. It is really cool to see the houses on the side of a cliff and do some exploring in the area. There is also a Junior Ranger program here, which my kids always enjoy.

Some other great Native American sites in the area are Honanki, Tuzigoot, the Sedona Heritage Museum, and the local art galleries featuring work from local Native American artists.

14. Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Trip

One of our favorite places in the American Southwest is Antelope Canyon. It is a beautiful slot canyon made of carved red sandstone. In our opinion, it is one of the best places to see near Sedona.

It is one of the prettiest places we have ever been to, and highly recommend visiting if you’re going to be in Sedona for more than three or four days or it is a great stop if you’re going to be road-tripping around this area.

Kids will enjoy the opportunity to tour Antelope Canyon from Sedona
A visit to Antelope Canyon is well worth the drive from Sedona.

Antelope Canyon is a three-hour drive from Sedona, making it a fun day trip. My kids loved getting to climb up and down the ladders in the canyon and finding the cool shapes in the canyon wall.

You do have to go on a guided tour to go inside Antelope Canyon. It is on protected Navajo land, so only authorized tour guides can take visitors through. There are no self-guided hikes.

If you have your own transportation from Sedona and want to go on a tour starting at Antelope Canyon, you can book an Antelope Canyon tour here.

Sandstone walls in Antelope Canyon, Arizona
The sandstone walls in Sedona are amazing.

Another great option is an Antelope Canyon tour from Sedona. This includes transportation from the Sedona area. This is really nice because you don’t have to worry about driving or arranging the details. They will do everything for you. It also includes additional stops at Glen Canyon Dam, Historic Cameron Trading Post, and Horseshoe Bend (which is stunning, by the way)!

Lunch and bottled water are also included in the tour departing from Sedona.

Check Prices for an Antelope Canyon Tour Here!

If you decide you want more than a day to spend in Page and the surrounding area, there are lots of great places to stay in Page. This is a perfect overnight stop if you are going on a road trip through the Southwest.

15. Sedona Jeep Tour

One of the most popular things to do in Sedona with kids is going on the Sedona Jeep Tours. This is a great way to get out and see the beautiful Sedona area. This scenic drive will take you through the red rocks, steep canyons, and nearby Coconino National Forest.

Because the tour vehicles have 4×4 clearance, you get to get off the beaten path and enjoy some of the more secluded areas in Sedona. Throughout the tour, your guide will point out interesting historical points of interest, famous rock formations, and the traditions of the indigenous people.

Scenic view in Arizona
A Sedona Jeep tour is a great way to explore the backcountry of Arizona if you don’t want to hike.

This is also a great opportunity to explore some of the backroads of Sedona and get a taste of what it is like without hiking. If you don’t want to hike, this is a great alternative. It is also a great option if you have members of your family who aren’t able to hike.

You can also bring a dog with you on the tour, which is awesome. If the dog is over 25 lbs, you will need to pay a child’s rate. You do have to notify the company ahead of time.  

Kids have to be at least three years old to participate in this tour, and you will need to bring a car seat for kids under five years old. This is a great activity in Sedona for kids.

Check Prices for Jeep Tours Here!  

16. RZR/ATV Rental

Another fun way to explore some of the backcountry of Sedona and the Coconino National Forest is by renting a rzr or ATV. If you’re looking for an adventure, this is one of the cool things to do in Sedona, AZ, with kids.

This four-hour rental will let you explore the 4×4 roads in Sedona, like Schnebly Hill Road and Dry Creek Basin.

Driving a RZR
The 4×4 trails are a lot of fun to explore in Sedona.

Here are some of the popular 4×4 roads in Sedona –

  • Schnebly Hill Road
  • Dry Creek Basin
  • The Outlaw Trail
  • Diamondback Gulch
  • Soldier Pass

The rental comes with a GPS system, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost, letting you enjoy the beautiful area surrounding Sedona. The rental rate also includes basic insurance, safety gear, and fuel. Even if you haven’t driven a razor before, you can quickly get comfortable driving on the trails.  

You can pick from a variety of different vehicles ranging from one seat up to six seats. The six-seat Ranger XP is a great vehicle to choose if you’re exploring Sedona with your family.

Check Prices for a Rzr Rental Here!

17. Helicopter Tour of Sedona

Another beautiful way to experience Sedona is from the air. A Sedona helicopter tour is an amazing experience with beautiful views. This is especially fun if your kids have an interest in airplanes, helicopters, and motors.

Scenic view in Northern Arizona
Splurging on a helicopter tour of Sedona will not disappoint.

During your flight, you will have headsets to help you hear your guide, who will provide valuable commentary on the Sedona, Arizona area. The tour will take you over the 700-year-old cliff dwellings that are carved deep into the stone mountains.

You will also get to fly over other noteworthy red rock formations in the Sedona area, like Devil’s Bridge, Secret Canyon, Mogollon Rim, and Boynton Canyon Trail. 

Check Prices for Helicopter Tour Here!

18. Star Gazing

One of the fun and coolest things to do in Sedona with kids is going stargazing. This tour is led by professional astronomers who share their passion for the night sky. Using specialized telescopes, you will get to see different planets, faraway galaxies as well as different star clusters.

This is a great educational opportunity for kids in Sedona, plus it is a lot of fun to see the amazing things in the sky. While you aren’t looking through the telescopes, you can use your own personal pair of binoculars.

Night sky showing the Milky Way
Sedona is a great place to go star-gazing.

This highly recommended tour has received the Award of Excellence 9 years in a row from Trip Advisor and has been featured in the New York Times and National Geographic. It is a great opportunity to learn more about the amazing solar system and galaxy we are part of.

If you have a future astronaut in your house, this is one of the best things to do in Sedona, AZ with kids.

➡ Check Prices for a Star Gazing Tour Here!

19. Day Trip to the Grand Canyon

If you are looking for a day trip during your trip to Sedona with kids, one of the must-sees is the Grand Canyon. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is only two hours from Sedona which will give you plenty of time to explore and take in the beauty of the Grand Canyon.

If you are exploring the Grand Canyon on your own, you can check out our full guide: Things to Do Near the Grand Canyon South Rim.

Grand Canyon in Northern Arizona
Don’t miss out on seeing this wonder of the world so close to Sedona.

Another great option is going on a Grand Canyon tour from Sedona. The tour takes care of the transportation as well as your itinerary, taking you to many of the ancient stops and highlights around the Grand Canyon. Some of the stops on the tour are the Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and the Grand Canyon.

The tour is a great opportunity to learn about the fascinating area around the Grand Canyon. You will learn about the history, geology, and archaeology of the area. We always love guided tours because of the amazing knowledge and stories the guides have to share.

Hotel pickup and lunch at the Cameron Trading Post are included in the tour.

Check Prices for Grand Canyon Tours Here!

If you decide to spend the night at the Grand Canyon, there are lots of great places to stay near the Grand Canyon South Rim. The Grand Canyon is spectacular during sunset and a great place to star gaze, so staying overnight can be a lot of fun!

Along with the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon, there are lots of fun day trips from Sedona. Some of the most popular are Flagstaff, Petrified Forest National Park, Monument Valley, and Phoenix.

Free Things to Do in Sedona with Kids

One of the amazing things about this area is there are so many fun and free things to do in Sedona with kids. You can easily have a great vacation in Sedona with kids without having to spend a lot of money.

20. Page Spring Fish Hatchery

Another one of the fun outdoor activities in Sedona is at the Page Spring Fish Hatchery. This is a great educational stop as well and gives kids a great look at the stages of life for a fish. There are a bunch of tanks with fish in different stages of the life cycle of a fish.

There is no admission fee, but if you bring a couple of quarters, you can buy some fish pellets to feed the fish. This is a lot of fun for kids. All the fish rush over to the food in the water, trying to get some. It’s a lot of fun to watch.

21. Red Rock Scenic Byway

Bell Rock in Arizona
There are lots of sightseeing opportunities along the Red Rock Scenic Byway.

One of the prettiest drives in this area is the Red Rock Scenic Byway 179 (SR179). Whether everyone needs a break from hiking or the little ones are sleeping in the car, this is a great road to explore if you’re interested in Sedona, AZ sightseeing. The most popular and scenic part of this drive is from Uptown Sedona, heading south towards the Village of Oak Creek.

Along this road, you will see iconic rock formations like Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Cathedral Rock, along with the Chapel of the Holy Cross.

22. Sedona Airport Lookout

After a day of exploring Sedona with kids, you should plan on watching the sunset at the Sedona Airport Lookout. It is minutes from downtown, making it a convenient and fun place to end your day. Airport Mesa is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Sedona.

View from the Airport Vista
The best time to visit the Sedona Airport Lookout is at sunset.

If it doesn’t work out for you to visit at sunset, it is still worth visiting during the day. There are lots of great hiking trails up here with great views of Thunder Mountain, west Sedona, and Coffeepot Rock.

23. Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most iconic pictures that come out of Sedona. It is a beautiful chapel built directly into the side of the red rocks. It is a quick stop but pretty to see. There are amazing views of the surrounding Sedona Verde Valley and Cathedral Rock.  

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a fun thing to do with children in Sedona
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a really neat thing to see in Sedona with kids.

In 2007, the chapel was listed as one of the Seven Man-Made Wonders of Arizona. After visiting the chapel, it is easy to see why it was recognized on this list.

24. Slide Rock State Park

If you’re visiting Sedona during the warmer months, one of the best things to do in Sedona with kids is going to Slide Rock State Park. It is a large natural water slide made of canyon rock in the Verde River. It is a really fun place to cool off and enjoy the beautiful water.

Slide Rock State Park is really pretty, and there are lots of amenities there, making it a great place to spend the afternoon. There are also some large grassy fields you can enjoy and some smaller pools if you want to swim away from the crowds. You can walk upstream to find more secluded areas to swim.

Slide Rock State Park in Sedona, Arizona is a fun thing to do with families
Slide Rock is one of the most popular water activities in Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon.

There is an entry fee to the state park, but there is no cost to enjoy the natural rock slide. The entrance fee Monday through Thursday is $20. The entrance fee from Friday through Sunday is $30. The parking lot does fill up, and they start turning people away, so it is a good idea to get there early in the day during the busy months.

There is overflow parking along the road. Make sure to stay out of the no-parking zones, or you will get a ticket.

If your little one has sensitive feet, it is a good idea to bring some water shoes to Slide Rock. 

25. Uptown Sedona

Uptown Sedona is the best place in town to do some window shopping and grab a bite to eat. There are lots of great tourist shops, art galleries, boutique shops, and Native American specialty stores. This is a really fun and lively part of town to explore.

Uptown Sedona shopping area
Uptown Sedona has lots of great restaurants, shops, and Sedona kids activities.

There are usually some street performers in the streets and lots of opportunities for entertainment. You can grab some food at Canyon Breeze, which, in essence, is a large food court, but there is a patio out back with amazing views. We grabbed some ice cream to enjoy on the patio and had a great time.

26. Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

Another fun shopping area in town to explore is the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. The campus has a Mexican-styled architecture and is home to over 50 specialty boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and craft stores.

Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village in downtown Sedona
The Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir.

It is fun to walk around to explore all of the different shops and see the beautiful architecture. My kids loved the cupcakes from Cream and Cake Couture, so be sure to check them out. They are almost too pretty to eat.

27. Grasshopper Point Swimming Hole

Another one of the best things to do in Sedona with family is swimming and cliff jumping at Grasshopper Point. There is a $9 entrance fee for parking, but there are not any other associated costs with coming here. This fee can only be paid with cash or check.  

This is one of the prettiest places to swim in Sedona. There are towering red rocks to enjoy, whether you want to enjoy the views or jump off of them.

Grasshopper Point Swimming Hole in Sedona, AZ
The grasshopper swimming hole is one of the water activities in Sedona, AZ.

You can swim in the clear water, and if you’re brave enough, you can jump off the cliffs into the water below. There are different levels, and you can climb up as far as you feel comfortable. This is a great place to enjoy an afternoon of swimming and a picnic.

28. Red Rock Crossing/Crescent Moon Picnic Site

Another fun swimming hole and picnic site is at Red Rock Crossing. If you’re looking for a swimming hole with a view, this is where you should go. There are beautiful views of Cathedral Rock in the background, which makes it a really pretty spot, especially at sunset.

The swimming area is in the Crescent Moon Ranch. The water is shallower here than at Grasshopper Point, which makes the water a bit warmer. There is also more shoreline here if you want to set up a beach-style afternoon.

Crescent Moon Picnic Site
The Crescent Moon Picnic Site is a great place to spend a warm afternoon.

To get to Red Rock Crossing, you can park at the Crescent Moon Picnic Site. The cost is $11 for up to five people. You can only pay this fee with cash or check.

If you want to avoid the parking fee, you can park at the Baldwin Trailhead and walk over to Red Rock Crossing via the Baldwin Trail. If the water level is high, though, you won’t be able to cross the river. This is one of the best family activities in Sedona, Arizona, if you’re looking to cool off on a hot day.

Map of Things to Do in Sedona with Kids

Is Sedona Toddler Friendly?

There are lots of great things to do in Sedona with toddlers. If you want to go out hiking, there are easy trails toddlers can walk on, or you can bring a backpack carrier to carry them when they get tired of walking.

We love our Osprey Poco Child Carrier. We have hiked in Sedona with it multiple times, and it always works great. This is a great carrier to bring to Sedona if you want to go on some longer hikes that your toddler can’t walk by himself or herself.  

SHOP Osprey Poco Carriers

Things to Do in Sedona with Toddlers

Here are some of the best things to do in Sedona with a toddler –

  • Courthouse Butte Trail
  • Fay Canyon Trail
  • Seven Sacred Pools via Soldier Pass Trail
  • Fay Canyon Trail
  • Red Rock State Park
  • Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park
  • Page Spring Fish Hatchery
My kids on a hiking trail in Sedona
There are lots of kid-friendly Sedona kid activities.

Things to Do in Sedona with a Baby

There are lots of fun things to do in Sedona with a baby. We have been traveling with our youngest since she was six weeks old and go by the theory that she can do what we do. This obviously doesn’t apply to places with minimum ages, like the Sedona Jeep tour, which has a minimum age of three years.

We make sure to bring a stroller and carrier where we know our baby will be comfortable and do what we want to do. Our youngest was six months old when we visited Sedona for the first time and took her to the top of Cathedral Rock, to the Birthing Cave, and lots of other fun places around town.

Hiking to the Birthing Cave is a great thing to do in Sedona, AZ with kids.

The key is to have the right baby gear so you can do what you want to do. If you’re bringing a younger baby, we love hiking with our Ergo baby carrier. It has a newborn insert you can buy separately if you need one.

It is a great carrier that we have used in Sedona. This makes it easy to enjoy all the fun things to do in Sedona, AZ with family.

SHOP Ergo Baby Carriers

If you’re hiking with older babies, we love the Osprey Poco child carrier we talked about above.

Where is Sedona?

Sedona is two hours north of Phoenix in central Arizona. It is two hours south of the Grand Canyon.  Sedona is a popular stop if you are going on a road trip through the Southwest. Other popular stops in this area are Las Vegas, Zion National Park, Antelope Canyon, and Phoenix.

The closest airport to Sedona is in Flagstaff, which is about 45 minutes north of Sedona. You can also fly into Phoenix International Airport, which more than likely will have cheaper flights. The drive from the Phoenix airport to Sedona is about two hours.

Best Time of Year to Visit Sedona

Sedona is a popular destination year-round, but different seasons do have their pros and cons. Summer and winter are the least popular times to visit Sedona, meaning the trailheads and parking lots won’t be as busy, but the weather may not be as favorable.

The summer months can be hot, especially if you are planning on doing a lot of hiking.

We usually visit Sedona in January or February, and we have never felt like the weather was bad. It does get chilly at night, but with coats, you will be just fine. The days are warm, and oftentimes times, we hike in a light jacket or even t-shirts.

Fall and spring have the best weather, but it is the busiest season.

Best Places to Stay in Sedona with Kids

There are lots of family-friendly hotels in Sedona, whether you’re looking for a luxury, standard, or boutique hotel. Accommodations can fill up in Sedona, especially over holiday weekends and during the fall and spring.

Hilton Resort at Bell Rock

Hilton Resort at Bell Rock
Hilton Resort at Bell Rock (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ Rating 8/10 | 📍 Location: 90 Ridge Trail Dr in Sedona | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

The Hilton Resort at Bell Rock is a great place to stay in Sedona with kids. There are wonderful on-site amenities like a shallow pool with fun water features and family rooms. They have lots of room setup options depending on how many beds you need, and the views are beautiful.

Property was beautiful. Had all the amenities we needed and felt luxurious. The views were spectacular! Would definitely stay here again.

– Katie (read more reviews)

☑️ Pet-friendly
☑️ Outdoor fireplace and seating
☑️ Onsite golf course, spa, and tennis court

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hilton Resort at Bell Rock

Bell Rock Inn

Bell Rock Inn
Bell Rock Inn is one of the Sedona Resorts that is kid-friendly (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ Rating 8.6/10 | 📍 Location: 6246 State Route 179 in Sedona | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

During our last visit to Sedona, we stayed at the Bell Rock Inn and had a great visit. We booked a studio room, which came with a full-size fridge, dishwasher, and hot plate. This made preparing dinner and picnic lunches so easy. They also have a one-bedroom suite if you need multiple rooms.

We really enjoyed our stay here. They were able to accommodate early check in, the pool was open until 10 which worked for us as we were out during the day, the kitchenette was well-stocked, and the location was a good base for us.

– Verified traveler (read more reviews)

The Bell Rock Inn has two heated outdoor pools. We visited in January but still got to enjoy the pools and hot tub. The pools are heated to 80 degrees in the winter and my kids loved it! It is within a short drive of many of the best Sedona attractions.

☑️ Clean and spacious rooms
☑️ AirBNB-like amenities
☑️ Pet-friendly
☑️ Onsite outdoor BBQ facilities and fitness center
☑️ Minutes from hiking at Bell Rock

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Bell Rock Inn

Enchantment Resort (Luxury)

Enchantment Resort
The Enchantment Resort is one of the family-friendly Sedona resorts (Photo: Expedia).

⭐️ Rating 9.4/10 | 📍 Location: 525 Boynton Canyon Rd in Sedona | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

The Enchantment Resort is a beautiful property with amazing views of Boynton Canyon and is one of the best Sedona resorts for families. Rooms, suites, and villas have dramatic views of the red rocks and are near the fun things to do in Sedona with kids, like hiking, mountain biking, and golfing.

A beautiful, fun, and peaceful resort. We had a lovely time swimming, hiking, playing pickle ball, and enjoying the spa. The staff were wonderful as well!

– sabrina (read more reviews)

There are four onsite restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. It also has an outdoor swimming pool and spa facilities and is pet-friendly. The staff is very friendly and happy to help with whatever you need. The staff can also make great recommendations for Sedona children’s activities.

☑️ Outdoor fireplace and seating area along with BBQ facilities
☑️ Lots of onsite amenities like kids’ club, game room, cooking classes, and more
☑️ Board games and puzzles are available
☑️ Pool with shallow end for kits to enjoy and is open year-round
☑️ Fitness and yoga classes are available, as well as a large variety of massage services

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Enchantment Resort

Orchards Inn (Boutique)

Orchards Inn
Orchards Inn in Sedona (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ Rating 8.6/10 | 📍 Location: North State Route 89a,254 in Sedona | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

The Orchards Inn rooms all feature kiva-inspired fireplaces and beautiful vistas of the famous red rocks.

Spacious room with a view of the red rocks. Excellent location and moderately priced compared to adjacent hotels.

– Christi (read more reviews)

There is a large sun terrace where you can hang out and enjoy views of nearby Snoopy Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Butte. This location has a central location, making it easy to explore downtown and all the fun things to do with kids in Sedona, AZ.

☑️ Pet friendly
☑️ Large family rooms available sleeping up to six people
☑️ Outdoor terrace with furniture and good views

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Orchards Inn 

If you’re bringing your camping gear or an RV, there are lots of great dispersed camping spots in Sedona.

FAQ: Things to Do in Sedona with Kids

Is Sedona Worth Visiting with Kids?

Yes! Yes! Definitely yes! We always have a great time visiting Sedona with our kids. We love getting out to explore the beautiful red rocks and amazing hiking trails. There are also lots of great other things to do in Sedona with kids besides hiking.

What is There to Do in Sedona for Kids?

If you’re wondering what to do around Sedona, AZ, there are lots of things to do with children in Sedona. Some of our favorite hiking trails are the West Fork Trail, Cathedral Rock, and Soldier Pass Trail. If you don’t want to hike, some of our favorite activities are going on the Pink Jeep Tours, and visiting the Sedona Heritage Museum. 

Is Flagstaff or Sedona Better for Kids?

We prefer to stay in Sedona rather than Flagstaff. There are lots of fun activities for kids in Sedona and we love the scenic views in Sedona as well.

How Many Days Do I Need in Sedona with Kids?

To enjoy all of the fun family-friendly activities in Sedona, we recommend spending 2-3 days in the area. This is a great amount of time to get in some easy hikes, visit the beautiful airport overlook, and go on one of the Sedona jeep tours. If you want to explore some of the long hike options in Sedona, you could easily spend five days in Sedona. 

Is 2 Days Enough for Sedona?

Yes, two days is enough time to spend in Sedona if you want to take in a quick taste of Sedona and take in some of the best views in the area. If you’re really wanting to get out and explore all of the hikes and natural wonders in the area, two days might be too short. 

What is the Most Magical Place in Sedona?

To us, the most magical place in Sedona is Cathedral Rock. This moderate hike is one of our favorite things to do in Sedona. Sunset from the top of Cathedral Rock is one of the prettiest sunsets we have ever seen. 

Do Kids Need Hiking Boots for Sedona?

To enjoy hiking during your Sedona family vacation, you will need to decide if your child will need hiking boots. We have spent weeks in Sedona hiking with our kids, and they have never worn hiking boots.
However, there are some uneven trails in Sedona, like Broken Arrow, where boots could be helpful. If you have them, it would be a good idea to bring them. 

Can You Hike Cathedral Rock with Kids?

Yes, you can hike Cathedral Rock with your kids. We hiked Cathedral Rock with our three kids, who were four, four, and one. We carried the one-year-old up. Our four-year-olds made it up and down on their own but did need some assistance climbing over some of the boulders. There is also a very large drop-off at the top, so you will need to be very careful up there. 

Is Devil’s Bridge Safe for Kids?

We have hiked the Devil’s Bridge Trail with our kids and found it to be a safe trail for kids. The only part that made me a little nervous was the area directly around the bridge. The walkway out onto the bridge is kind of steep, making it harder for kids to walk on. As long as they are good listeners, exercise caution, and stay away from the edges, you should be fine. 

Is Sedona Kid Friendly?

Yes, Sedona is a very kid-friendly destination. There are lots of great outdoor activities and places to explore nature. Along with the great outdoors, there are lots of Sedona activities for kids, like the railroad adventure, a jeep tour, and fishing.

Conclusion: Things to Do in Sedona with Kids

We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Sedona, Arizona with your kids. There are so many great things to do with family in Sedona while exploring Red Rock Country.

Our favorite part of visiting Sedona is the amazing hiking trails, but even if you aren’t a family of hikers, there are so many fun things to do, like shopping, horseback riding, eating dinner at the Blazin’ M Ranch, and exploring the town. 

Additional Sedona Travel Blogs

Sedona is such a magical place to visit. Every time we find ourselves in Arizona, we stop by, even if it is just for a couple of days. The beautiful scenery and amazing hiking trails make it a great place to visit. It is also a great place to drive through if you are heading out on a road trip through the American Southwest.

If you’re looking for more info on traveling to Sedona, Arizona, check out these additional Sedona travel guides:

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