21 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
Best for ages: 4+
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.
Pro Tip: Bring a picnic! There are shaded picnic areas with gorgeous views—a great place to relax after exploring the trails.
With its easy hikes, kid-friendly nature programs, and stunning scenery, Red Rock State Park is a must-visit for families in Sedona.
2. Slide Down the Natural Waterslides at Slide Rock State Park
Location: 6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ
Best for ages: 5+
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.
Pro Tip: Arrive early, especially in summer, as the park reaches capacity quickly! Water shoes are recommended for extra grip on the slippery rocks.
3. Go on a Pink Jeep Tour (Kid-Friendly Options Available!)
Location: 204 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ
Cost: ~$100 per adult, ~$90 per child
A Pink Jeep Tour is one of the most exciting ways for families to explore Sedona’s red rock landscapes! These guided off-road adventures take you deep into Sedona’s rugged terrain, offering thrilling rides, stunning views, and fun educational insights—all in a bright pink, open-air Jeep.
For families with kids, the Scenic Rim Tour or Coyote Canyon Tour are great options. These tours feature gentler terrain and incredible viewpoints, making them ideal for younger children. For families with older kids (ages 3 and up), the Broken Arrow Tour is a must! This exhilarating adventure includes steep rock climbs and descents, guaranteed to get everyone excited.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Bumpy, fun-filled ride through canyons, mesas, and red rock formations.
✅ Cool facts and wildlife spotting from friendly, knowledgeable guides.
✅ Plenty of photo-worthy stops, including a chance to stand on red rock ledges.
4. Visit the Butterfly Garden at the Sedona Heritage Museum
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.
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning when butterflies are most active—and don’t forget your camera. The mix of blooms and red rock views makes for a surprisingly stunning photo op.
5. Discover Hidden Petroglyphs at the V-Bar-V Heritage Site
Location: 6750 N Forest Ranger Rd, Rimrock, AZ
Best for ages: 6+
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!
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Feels like a real-life treasure hunt discovering hidden rock art.
✅ Rangers share fun stories about how the Sinagua people lived.
✅ Easy, flat trail—great for little explorers!
6. Visit the Sedona Arts Center for Kids’ Art Classes
Location: 15 Art Barn Rd, Sedona, AZ
Best for ages: 5+
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!
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Fun, interactive lessons taught by professional artists.
✅ A chance to take home a unique, handmade souvenir.
✅ Inspires creativity while learning about Sedona’s artistic heritage.
7. Stargazing at the Sedona Dark Sky Festival
Location: Various locations in Sedona
Best for ages: 6+
If your family loves space and the stars, the Sedona Dark Sky Festival is a must-experience event! Sedona is designated as an International Dark Sky Community, meaning it has minimal light pollution, making it one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing.
Held annually, the Sedona Dark Sky Festival features interactive exhibits, kid-friendly astronomy talks, and telescope viewings where families can spot planets, constellations, and even distant galaxies. Professional astronomers and NASA scientists often attend, sharing fun facts about the universe and leading night sky tours. Kids can also enjoy hands-on activities like building model rockets, touching meteorites, and attending space-themed storytelling sessions.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Get a close-up look at Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, and deep-space nebulae.
✅ Fun, educational games, and activities focused on space and science.
✅ Learn from real astronomers in an exciting, interactive way.
Pro Tip: Even outside the festival, local stargazing tours offer unforgettable experiences.
8. Get Hands-On at the Verde Valley Archaeology Center
Location: 460 W Finnie Flat Rd, Camp Verde, AZ
Best for ages: 7+
For a fascinating deep dive into Arizona’s ancient history, take your family to the Verde Valley Archaeology Center (VVAC), where kids can touch real artifacts, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about the Indigenous cultures of the region. Located just a short drive from Sedona, this museum showcases artifacts from the Sinagua, Hopi, Apache, and Yavapai peoples, giving kids a hands-on look at how ancient civilizations lived in the desert.
One of the highlights is the Kid’s Discovery Area, where young archaeologists can grind corn using traditional tools, handle replica pottery, and even try a mini excavation activity! The museum also offers guided site tours to nearby ancient ruins, allowing families to see real archaeological sites up close.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Dig for “artifacts” in the interactive Junior Archaeologist Zone.
✅ See real petrified corn, pottery, and stone tools up close.
✅ Learn how ancient people survived in the desert through hands-on activities.
Pro Tip: Visit on a Saturday for special hands-on activities.
9. See Exotic Birds at Out of Africa Wildlife Park
Location: 3505 AZ-260, Camp Verde, AZ
Best for ages: 3+
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ See parrots, cockatoos, and hornbills up close.
✅ Watch birds perform tricks at educational wildlife shows.
✅ Explore the park on a real safari ride with giraffes and zebras.
Pro Tip: The “Feed a Giraffe” experience is a must-do for kids!
10. Ride Horses at M Diamond Ranch
Location: 3405 Arena Del Loma, Camp Verde, AZ
Best for ages: 6+
For an unforgettable Wild West adventure, take your family horseback riding at M Diamond Ranch, the only real working cattle ranch near Sedona that offers guided trail rides.
The family-friendly trail rides are led by knowledgeable wranglers who share fun facts about the area’s history, wildlife, and cowboy culture. Kids will love riding through cactus-dotted terrain, spotting jackrabbits and hawks, and learning how to handle a horse safely.
For a true Western experience, consider booking the Sunset Ride & Cowboy Dinner, where families can enjoy a delicious outdoor barbecue after their ride, complete with campfire storytelling and stunning Arizona sunsets.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Ride gentle, well-trained horses—perfect for beginners!
✅ Feel like a real cowboy or cowgirl on a working ranch.
✅ Enjoy an authentic Western-style dinner under the stars.
11. The ChocolaTree Organic Eatery
Location: 1595 W State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ
Hours: Open daily, 9 AM – 9 PM
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!
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Relaxing outdoor garden with hammocks and fish ponds.
✅ Kid-friendly organic treats, including homemade chocolates.
✅ Fun and unique flavors like raw cacao smoothies & superfood brownies.
12. Pump House Station Urban Eatery & Market
Location: 313 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ
Hours: Open daily, 8 AM – 3 PM
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Casual, relaxed vibe with indoor and outdoor seating.
✅ Yummy breakfast and lunch options for picky eaters.
✅ Located near shops and fountains, perfect for post-meal exploring.
13. Cowboy Club
Location: 241 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ
Price Range: $$-$$$
Hours: Open daily, 11 AM – 9 PM
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Fun cowboy-themed restaurant with lots to look at.
✅ Delicious, kid-friendly options like burgers and fries.
✅ Try something new—like cactus fries or rattlesnake sausage (if they’re feeling adventurous!).
14. Explore the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Location: 336 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ
Entry Fee: FREE to explore
Hours: Open daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Feels like a storybook village with hidden courtyards and fountains.
✅ Live art demos and fun, interactive shops.
✅ Seasonal events like holiday light displays and Dia de los Muertos celebrations.
15. Take a Family Yoga Class Overlooking the Red Rocks
Cost: ~$20–$50 per person (varies by session)
Best Time: Early morning or sunset for the best weather and views
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.
Where to Try It:
Sedona Hot Yoga – Offers private outdoor family sessions
Aumbase Sedona – Specializes in yoga at Sedona’s vortex sites
16. Go on a Scavenger Hunt at the Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park
Location: 2650 Pueblo Drive, Sedona, AZ
Entry Fee: FREE (donations appreciated)
Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
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!)
Cost: ~$250+ per person (varies by company)
Best Time: Early morning for calm winds and sunrise views
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 (about 40 minutes from Sedona)
Tickets: ~$70 per adult, ~$50 per child (ages 2-12)
Departure Times: Typically 1 PM daily, with seasonal special events
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Ride on a real vintage train—just like in the Old West!
✅ Spot wildlife and learn fun facts from the onboard guides.
✅ Enjoy open-air viewing cars for the best panoramic views.
19. Discover the Magical Energy of a Vortex at Airport Mesa
Location: Airport Mesa Trailhead, Sedona, AZ
Entry Fee: $3 parking fee at the overlook lot
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ A quick, easy hike with incredible views.
✅ Fun "energy experiment"—do they feel a difference at the vortex?
✅ Perfect place to watch the sunset or spot hot air balloons in the morning.
20. Try Gem Mining at Red Rock Magic Trolley’s Gift Shop
Location: 252 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ (at the Red Rock Magic Trolley Depot)
Cost: Mining bags start at ~$10
Hours: Open daily, 9 AM – 5 PM
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Feel like real miners uncovering gemstones.
✅ Hands-on, interactive experience with instant rewards.
✅ Take home unique treasures as a memory of Sedona.
21. Have a Picnic at Crescent Moon Ranch and Play in Oak Creek
Location: 300 Red Rock Crossing Rd, Sedona, AZ
Entry Fee: $12 per vehicle
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for warm weather and great creek conditions
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.
Why Kids Love It:
✅ Creekside fun—splash, wade, and cool off in Oak Creek.
✅ Plenty of picnic space with tables and BBQ grills.
✅ Easy nature trails to explore after lunch.
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.
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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.
