26 Fun Things To Do In Sedona That Are Perfect For Families

Sedona is more than just a spiritual retreat —it's also an epic outdoor playground for families! With its mesmerizing red rock formations, scenic hikes, and interactive attractions, this Arizona gem offers countless ways to keep kids entertained.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Sedona with your family, from easy hikes and wildlife encounters to jeep tours and hands-on activities!

1. Explore the Family-Friendly Trails at Red Rock State Park

Location: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336

Red Rock State Park in Sedona is a perfect destination for families who want to explore Arizona’s stunning landscapes without tackling strenuous hikes. With well-maintained trails, easy creek access, and plenty of wildlife, it’s a great place for kids to enjoy the outdoors.

The Eagle’s Nest Loop is a top pick for families, offering gentle inclines and breathtaking panoramic views of Sedona’s famous red rock formations. This 2-mile loop is manageable for little legs while still providing an exciting sense of adventure. For a shorter stroll, the Kisva Trail leads to Oak Creek, where kids can splash in the water and look for tadpoles.

Along the way, families can spot deer, javelinas, and over 100 species of birds, making it an ideal spot for young nature enthusiasts. The park’s visitor center offers hands-on exhibits and a junior ranger program, adding an educational element to your visit.

2. Slide Down the Natural Waterslides at Slide Rock State Park

Location: 6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a thrilling and refreshing family adventure, head to Slide Rock State Park, where kids (and kids at heart) can slide down a naturally formed rock waterslide in the middle of Sedona’s breathtaking red rock canyon. This 80-foot-long sandstone chute, smoothed by the constant flow of Oak Creek, creates a natural slip-and-slide that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot Arizona day.

The water is crystal-clear and brisk, adding to the excitement as you glide over the smooth rock surface. In addition to the famous slide, the park offers shallow wading pools, jumping cliffs, and plenty of spots to relax along the creek. Families can also explore short hiking trails and learn about the park’s historic homestead and apple orchards, which date back to the early 1900s.

3. Go on a Pink Jeep Tour (Kid-Friendly Options Available!)

Location: 204 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336

When it comes to memorable, all-terrain adventures in Sedona, few things top a ride with Pink Jeep Tours—and yes, they offer kid-friendly versions of their iconic off-road excursions. These bright pink 4x4s have been rolling through red rock country since 1960, offering guided tours that mix geology, Native American history, and pure outdoor excitement.

The most family-friendly option is the Scenic Rim or Coyote Canyon tour, both designed with smoother terrain and shorter durations for younger riders (minimum age typically starts at 18 months, depending on the tour). The guides are trained storytellers who know how to keep kids engaged, often pointing out local wildlife, explaining rock formations in fun ways, and even tossing in a few bumpy thrills.

You’ll stop at epic viewpoints that would be difficult—or impossible—to reach on foot with little ones, making this a great option for multigenerational groups or families with mixed activity levels.

4. Visit the Butterfly Garden at the Sedona Heritage Museum

Location: 735 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336

Tucked away in the peaceful grounds of the Sedona Heritage Museum, the Butterfly Garden offers a quiet, whimsical escape that’s perfect for families, nature lovers, or anyone craving a slower moment in between hikes and sightseeing. It’s a small but magical spot where you can wander through native plants, and colorful blooms, and—if you’re lucky—catch a glimpse of delicate butterflies fluttering from flower to flower.

More than just a garden, it’s a place to pause and soak in the natural beauty that Sedona is known for, without venturing too far off the beaten path. The museum itself is a great stop for history buffs, but the garden is where kids can stretch their legs and explore while adults enjoy a little tranquility.

5. Discover Hidden Petroglyphs at the V-Bar-V Heritage Site

Location: 675 Forest Service Rd 618, Rimrock, AZ 86335

For a fascinating journey into the past, take the family to V-Bar-V Heritage Site, home to one of the largest and best-preserved petroglyph collections in Arizona. This hidden gem, just outside Sedona, features over 1,000 ancient rock carvings created by the Sinagua people more than 800 years ago.

The short, easy half-mile walk to the petroglyphs makes it perfect for kids. Once there, you’ll see intricate symbols carved into the red rock walls, depicting animals, human figures, and celestial patterns. The site’s most famous feature is the solar calendar, where shadows align with the carvings on specific days of the year—an ancient way to track the seasons!

6. Visit the Sedona Arts Center for Kids’ Art Classes

Location: 15 Art Barn Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a creative break from outdoor adventures, take your little artists to the Sedona Arts Center, where kids can enjoy hands-on art classes and workshops. This local gem offers a welcoming space for children to explore their creativity through painting, pottery, sculpture, and mixed media projects.

The center’s Kid’s Art Classes are designed for all skill levels and often feature Southwest-inspired themes, allowing children to paint Sedona’s famous red rock landscapes or create clay pieces inspired by Native American pottery. Some classes even include outdoor sessions where kids can sketch nature scenes right in the heart of Sedona!

7. Stargazing at the Sedona Dark Sky Festival

Location: Various venues in Sedona, AZ

Sedona isn't just beautiful by day—it’s world-class by night, thanks to its official status as a Dark Sky Community. If your trip lines up with the Sedona Dark Sky Festival, typically held in April, you’re in for one of the most unforgettable family nights in the desert.

The festival is a mix of science, art, and hands-on astronomy, with activities tailored for all ages. Kids can build model rockets, attend glow-in-the-dark art workshops, and look through professional telescopes to see Saturn’s rings or the surface of the moon. Local astronomers host interactive talks that make space feel close, not abstract—and volunteers are always nearby to answer curious questions.

What makes the event magical isn’t just the lack of light pollution. It’s the atmosphere. The Milky Way arcs over Sedona’s iconic red rock silhouettes while people of all ages gather for the simple joy of looking up together.

8. Get Hands-On at the Verde Valley Archaeology Center

Location: 460 W Finnie Flat Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322

Located about 30 minutes from Sedona in Camp Verde, the Verde Valley Archaeology Center is a hidden gem for curious kids and history-minded parents. This small but impactful museum focuses on the Indigenous cultures of the region, particularly the Sinagua and Hohokam peoples who lived in the Verde Valley for over a thousand years.

What makes this center so family-friendly is its interactive approach. Kids can handle replica tools, examine pottery fragments, and explore models of ancient dwellings. Exhibits explain not just how people lived—but how they adapted to desert life with sophisticated irrigation, trade networks, and astronomical knowledge.

The center also offers Junior Archaeologist activities, scavenger hunts, and family workshops on weekends and during school holidays. It’s a great low-cost educational outing with air conditioning and accessible restrooms—two bonuses when traveling with younger kids.

For families planning to visit nearby ruins like Montezuma Castle or V-Bar-V Heritage Site, the museum provides essential context and makes those ancient walls feel alive with meaning. And if your kids are into treasure hunts, the gift shop offers books, excavation kits, and “dig your own gemstone” souvenirs.

9. See Exotic Birds at Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Location: 3505 Camp Verde Bridgeport Hwy, Camp Verde, AZ 86322

For an unforgettable wildlife experience near Sedona, take your family to Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde. While this park is famous for its lions, tigers, and giraffes, it also has an impressive collection of exotic birds that kids will love!

The Giant Aviary is a must-see, where colorful parrots, macaws, cockatoos, and other tropical birds freely fly around in a natural environment. The park also features live bird shows, where trained birds perform tricks and demonstrate their incredible intelligence. Kids can even get up close to friendly birds during interactive encounters!

Beyond the birds, families can enjoy an African-style safari tour, where zebras, ostriches, and antelope roam freely. The Predator Feed Tour is another highlight, giving kids the chance to watch big cats being fed while learning cool facts from expert guides.

10. Ride Horses at M Diamond Ranch

Location: 29730 N Forest Service Rd 618, Camp Verde, AZ 86322

For families looking to trade red rock trails for the cowboy life, M Diamond Ranch offers a down-to-earth, authentic ranch experience just 45 minutes from Sedona. This family-owned working cattle ranch gives kids and adults a chance to ride horses through real Arizona backcountry, far from the crowds of town trails.

Horseback rides are available for all skill levels, including gentle trail rides for beginners and kids as young as 6. The wranglers are experienced, patient, and great with children—they’ll even walk alongside nervous first-timers to build confidence. Trails wind through high desert scrub, open pastures, and wide vistas where you might spot mule deer, jackrabbits, or hawks circling overhead.

What sets M Diamond Ranch apart is the hospitality. After the ride, families can enjoy a Western-style cookout, complete with burgers, baked beans, and cowboy stories under the stars. In the fall and spring, they sometimes host sunset rides and live music events that make the experience feel like a scene from an old Western—except it’s real.

11. The ChocolaTree Organic Eatery

Location: 1595 W AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a fun and healthy dining experience in Sedona, take your family to ChocolaTree Organic Eatery, a quirky, all-organic restaurant that feels like a magical garden hideaway. Known for its delicious vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, this spot is a great choice for families looking for wholesome, kid-friendly meals—plus, there’s a dedicated chocolate shop inside!

The outdoor garden seating is a hit with kids, featuring hammocks, shady trees, and even a koi pond where little ones can relax while waiting for their food. The menu offers fun, kid-approved options like coconut-based mac & cheese, sweet potato fries, and almond butter sandwiches. And of course, no visit is complete without trying their handmade organic chocolates and dairy-free ice cream!

12. Pump House Station Urban Eatery & Market

Location: 313 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a casual and family-friendly dining spot in Sedona, Pump House Station Urban Eatery & Market is a fantastic choice. Located in the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, this cozy eatery offers a laid-back atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and a menu full of delicious options for both kids and adults.

The outdoor patio is a favorite among families, with plenty of space for kids to move around while parents relax with a coffee or mimosa. The menu includes kid-approved favorites like fluffy pancakes, grilled cheese, and avocado toast, while parents can enjoy gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and hearty breakfast burritos.

13. Cowboy Club

Location: 241 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a true taste of the Wild West, take the family to Cowboy Club, a legendary Sedona restaurant that serves up Southwestern flavors in a fun, Western-themed setting. Originally a meeting place for real-life cowboys and Hollywood stars, this historic eatery is kid-friendly while still offering a unique Old West dining experience.

The menu has something for everyone, from juicy burgers and mac & cheese for kids to more adventurous dishes like bison burgers, elk chops, and cactus fries for the adults. If your little ones are feeling daring, let them try the prickly pear lemonade—a sweet and refreshing treat!

The rustic decor and cowboy memorabilia make dining here feel like stepping into a classic Western movie, and kids will love the lively atmosphere.

14. Explore the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Location: 336 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a family-friendly mix of art, culture, and fun, take the kids to Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, one of Sedona’s most charming and unique attractions. Designed to resemble a traditional Mexican-style village, this cobblestone-lined destination is filled with art galleries, boutique shops, fountains, and shady courtyards—perfect for a leisurely family stroll.

Kids will love spotting colorful tile mosaics, watching live artists at work, and checking out unique handmade toys and souvenirs. Stop by Esteban’s Pottery to see pottery-making demonstrations, or let little ones explore the fountain-filled courtyards while parents browse artisan jewelry and local crafts. During the holidays and special events, Tlaquepaque often hosts live music, festivals, and fun hands-on activities for kids.

15. Take a Family Yoga Class Overlooking the Red Rocks

Location: Various studios and scenic overlooks in Sedona

For a relaxing and fun bonding experience, try a family yoga class in Sedona, where you can stretch, breathe, and enjoy the stunning red rock views together. Sedona is famous for its energy vortexes and spiritual retreats, making it the perfect place to introduce kids to mindfulness, movement, and nature connection.

Several yoga studios and outdoor guides offer kid-friendly yoga sessions in scenic locations like Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, or Crescent Moon Ranch. These classes are designed to be engaging and playful, often incorporating storytelling, animal poses, and breathing exercises to keep little ones entertained.

16. Go on a Scavenger Hunt at the Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

Location: 2650 Pueblo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a unique and peaceful family adventure, take your kids on a scavenger hunt at the Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park, a hidden gem in Sedona that combines spirituality, nature, and fun exploration. Nestled among the red rocks, this 14-acre sacred site features a 36-foot-tall Buddhist stupa, colorful prayer flags, and scenic walking trails perfect for a family-friendly outing.

Turn your visit into an exciting scavenger hunt by encouraging kids to find and count:
- The prayer wheels (spin them for good luck!)
- The golden Buddha statues hidden along the trails
- The colorful flags swaying in the breeze
- Animal tracks or desert plants along the walking paths

While the site is a place of peace and meditation, kids will love exploring the winding trails and discovering the unique symbols of Buddhist culture. It’s also a great spot for a quiet picnic with breathtaking views!

17. Try a Hot Air Balloon Ride (For Older Kids!)

Location: Sedona Airport or pickup by tour provider

For an unforgettable family adventure, take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride over Sedona’s breathtaking red rock landscape! This once-in-a-lifetime experience is perfect for older kids (typically ages 6 and up) who love excitement, stunning views, and a little bit of adventure.

Most flights take off just before sunrise, offering incredible panoramic views as the sun paints the canyons and mesas in golden hues. Floating peacefully 1,000+ feet above Sedona, you’ll see famous landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the Verde Valley from a whole new perspective.

After landing, most tours include a celebratory toast (with sparkling cider for kids!) and light snacks to wrap up the magical experience.

Tour Providers:

• Red Rock Balloon Adventures
• Northern Light Balloon Expeditions

18. Take a Scenic Train Ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad

Location: 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324

For a relaxing yet exciting family adventure, hop aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad, a vintage train that winds through stunning desert landscapes, towering red rock formations, and lush river valleys. Located just 25 miles from Sedona, this family-friendly train ride is a great way to experience Arizona’s wild beauty without the need for hiking boots!

The four-hour round-trip journey takes you along the Verde River, where kids can spot eagles, herons, deer, and maybe even a javelina! The train features open-air viewing cars, allowing little ones to feel the fresh air while taking in breathtaking canyon views. Inside, the comfortable passenger cars have big windows, snacks, and restrooms, making it an easy and enjoyable ride for families.

19. Discover the Magical Energy of a Vortex at Airport Mesa

Location: Airport Mesa Trailhead, Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336

Sedona is famous for its energy vortexes, and Airport Mesa is one of the most accessible and family-friendly spots to experience this natural phenomenon. A vortex is believed to be a powerful energy center that enhances relaxation, creativity, and spiritual awareness—making it a fun and unique experience for kids and adults alike!

The short 0.6-mile Airport Mesa Overlook Trail is easy for kids and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Sedona’s red rock landscape. As you explore, encourage little ones to feel the energy, try a mindful moment, or even practice some simple yoga poses at the top. Many visitors also stack small rock cairns, a fun activity for kids while respecting nature.

20. Try Gem Mining at Red Rock Magic Trolley’s Gift Shop

Location: 252 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a fun and interactive activity, take your kid's gem mining at the Red Rock Magic Trolley’s Gift Shop! This hands-on experience lets little explorers sift through sand and water to uncover real gemstones, fossils, and minerals—just like real prospectors.

The gem mining station is set up with sluice-style water troughs, making it an exciting treasure hunt for kids. They’ll receive a bag of mining rough, which they can pour into a screen and rinse off to reveal hidden gems like amethyst, quartz, and tiger’s eye. Every child gets to keep their finds, making this a perfect souvenir from Sedona.

21. Have a Picnic at Crescent Moon Ranch and Play in Oak Creek

Location: 333 Red Rock Crossing Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336

For a relaxing family day outdoors, head to Crescent Moon Ranch, one of Sedona’s most beautiful picnic spots. Located along the banks of Oak Creek, this scenic area offers shady picnic tables, grassy fields, and plenty of space for kids to run and play.

The real highlight? Wading and splashing in Oak Creek! The shallow, slow-moving water is perfect for little ones to dip their toes, skip rocks, or even float on inflatable tubes. Plus, Crescent Moon Ranch offers one of the best views of Cathedral Rock, making it a perfect spot for a family photo session.

22. Chapel of the Holy Cross

Location: 780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336

Carved directly into Sedona’s red rocks, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of Arizona’s most striking architectural landmarks—and a surprisingly powerful stop for families. Designed by sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the chapel was completed in 1956 and has been inspiring visitors ever since.

Kids are often captivated by its dramatic setting: a slender stone structure rising from a butte, with towering windows framing Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock in the distance. Inside, the chapel is quiet and reflective, lit by votive candles and natural light.

The path to the entrance is steep but paved, and a golf cart shuttle is available for those who need help with the climb, including grandparents or little ones with tired legs. There's no fee to enter, and respectful kids are always welcome.

Though it’s a short stop, the views and atmosphere often lead to big conversations—about nature, design, and even spirituality. Bring a camera, a moment of silence, and a sense of wonder. Whether you’re religious or not, the chapel offers a peaceful pause that resonates with visitors of all ages.

23. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

Location: 2650 Pueblo Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336

For families seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path place to recharge, the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park offers one of Sedona’s most serene and soul-nourishing experiences. Set at the base of Thunder Mountain, this sacred Buddhist site features a 36-foot stupa, a smaller stupa for children, and a winding path surrounded by juniper trees, red rock views, and colorful Tibetan prayer flags.

Kids are welcome here—as long as they’re respectful of the meditative atmosphere. Many families create simple scavenger hunts ("Find 3 prayer wheels," "Count the steps to the stupa") or bring a small offering like a flower or stone to place near the monument. The act of walking clockwise around the stupa—three times for good luck—is something children can participate in and understand.

There are no admission fees, no commercial distractions, and often very few people. It’s quiet, grounding, and very accessible. Just be sure to bring water and wear sun protection, as there’s limited shade.

In a town filled with high-energy activities, this is a rare place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and share a moment of peace as a family.

24. Grand Canyon National Park (Day Trip from Sedona)

Location: South Rim via AZ-64 N, ~2.25-hour drive

No trip to Northern Arizona is complete without a day trip to Grand Canyon National Park, and from Sedona, it’s a scenic 2.5-hour drive that’s doable in a single day with a little planning. The South Rim is the most family-friendly access point, with paved paths, ranger programs, and jaw-dropping vistas that leave even the most screen-attached kids in awe.

Start at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, where families can pick up a Junior Ranger activity book, explore interactive exhibits, and get advice on the best viewpoints for your group’s energy level. The Rim Trail is mostly flat and stroller-accessible, perfect for little legs, while older kids might enjoy short hikes into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail—just be sure to turn back before it gets too steep.

Shuttle buses connect the major overlooks, and there are plenty of shaded picnic areas and restrooms. Don’t forget binoculars—kids love trying to spot rafting groups down on the Colorado River.

It’s a long day, yes—but the payoff is enormous. Standing at the edge of the canyon gives kids (and adults) a rare sense of scale, wonder, and connection to the natural world.

25. West Fork Oak Creek Trailhead

Location: 6.4 miles north of Sedona on AZ-89A

Arguably the most beloved hike in Sedona for families, the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon combines everything kids love: shady forests, stream crossings, red rock cliffs, and seasonal splashes of wildflowers or golden leaves. It's about a 6-mile round-trip hike, but most families go 1–2 miles in and turn back, making it completely customizable.

The trail crosses the creek 13 times, which means kids can hop rocks, wade through ankle-deep water, or simply look for frogs and minnows. The red canyon walls gradually close in, creating a cool, almost magical feel as the sun filters through the trees.

There are restrooms and picnic tables at the trailhead, and while it’s one of the most popular trails in the area, it never feels overwhelming due to its long, winding path. Arrive early to snag parking—this spot fills up fast, especially on weekends.

Bring water shoes, snacks, and dry socks—you’ll need them. For a half-day hike that feels like an adventure but isn’t too strenuous, West Fork is Sedona’s most rewarding family trail.

26. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Location: 2800 Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322

A short drive south of Sedona, Montezuma Castle National Monument is one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America—and a fantastic introduction to Indigenous history for kids. Carved high into a limestone cliff, the five-story structure was built and occupied by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago.

The trail from the visitor center is a paved, stroller-friendly loop that winds beneath tall sycamores and leads to the base of the dwelling. Though you can’t climb inside the ruins, the view is impressive, and interpretive signs explain how people once farmed, stored food, and thrived in this desert oasis.

Kids love imagining what it was like to live in a "castle in the cliffs," and the Junior Ranger program adds an interactive, educational layer to the visit. There’s also a shaded picnic area and restrooms, making it a great stop on your way to or from Sedona.

Montezuma Castle is compact, peaceful, and easy to explore in under an hour—a perfect bite-sized history lesson wrapped in the stunning landscape of the Verde Valley.

Conclusion

Sedona isn’t just a haven for hikers and spiritual seekers—it’s also a wonderfully enriching place for families to connect, explore, and make unforgettable memories.

Chasing butterflies, stargazing under desert skies, or hiking through vibrant trails, Sedona makes it easy to slow down and soak up the simple joys of discovery and togetherness. It's the kind of place where even a walk through a garden or a moment at a scenic overlook can become a core memory.

So, pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a few snacks for the little ones), and get ready to experience a side of Sedona that’s just as captivating for kids as it is for grown-ups.

Planning a trip? Karta has some amazing deals on Sedona vacation rentals for you.

FAQs

1. Is Sedona a kid-friendly destination?

Yes! While Sedona is famous for its red rock hikes and spiritual energy, it’s also filled with kid-friendly activities like nature trails, wildlife spotting, cultural exhibits, and interactive outdoor experiences. There’s plenty for kids to enjoy, whether they’re toddlers or teens.

2. What are the best hikes in Sedona for families with young children?

Easy, scenic trails like Bell Rock Pathway, Fay Canyon Trail, and Red Rock State Park’s nature trails are perfect for families. They offer beautiful views without being too steep or strenuous for little legs.

3. What’s the best time of year to visit Sedona with kids?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are ideal—mild weather, fewer crowds, and lots of outdoor fun. Summers can get hot, and winter is cooler but still enjoyable for short hikes and scenic drives.

4. Are there any indoor activities for kids in Sedona?

Absolutely! Check out the Sedona Heritage Museum, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village (with family-friendly events), and local art galleries or cafes with cozy corners for downtime. You’ll find plenty of indoor charm when you need a break from the sun.

5. Can kids participate in Sedona’s spiritual or cultural experiences?

Yes! Many vortex sites have gentle trails suitable for kids, and local guides often offer family-friendly storytelling or nature walks with a cultural twist. It’s a great way to introduce kids to Native American history, geology, and mindfulness in nature.

6. What are the best places to eat in Sedona with kids?

Family-friendly spots like The Hudson, Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen, and Wildflower Bread Company offer kid-approved menus and relaxed atmospheres. Many restaurants also have outdoor seating with views to keep little ones entertained.

7. Is Sedona safe for families to explore on their own?

Yes, Sedona is generally very safe. Most family-friendly trails are well-marked, and locals are welcoming and helpful. Just be sure to bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes, especially if you're planning to hike with kids.

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