Tips for a quick trip

Question

My daughter and I are visiting Sedona in Sept. from NY. Only staying for a few days so trying to see as much as possible. What would be the best airport to fly into? I will be renting a car and my daughter is looking into Airbnb rentals. We like to hike but not too strenuous. Love fun activities and sightseeing. Thank you in advance for your help.

Answer

For a short trip to Sedona, the best airport to fly into is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). It’s approximately a 2-hour drive to Sedona and offers a wide range of domestic flights from New York and other major cities. Another option is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), which is closer to Sedona (about 45 minutes’ drive), but it has fewer flights and may be more expensive or require connections.

Since you plan to rent a car, flying into Phoenix provides more flexibility, and the drive itself is scenic along the I-17 corridor. Make sure to rent an SUV or comfortable vehicle suitable for the winding roads in Sedona and the nearby red rock areas.

For accommodations, Airbnb is a great choice for convenience and comfort. Look for rentals in West Sedona or Uptown Sedona, as these areas are central to shops, restaurants, and trailheads.

For hiking and sightseeing in a short stay, you can focus on trails and activities that are scenic but not overly strenuous:

Cathedral Rock: Iconic red rock formation with a relatively short but steep hike to the viewpoint.
Bell Rock & Courthouse Butte Loop: Easy to moderate loop offering panoramic views of the red rocks.
Airport Mesa: Short trail to sunset viewpoints, ideal for photography and gentle hiking.
West Fork Trail: Shaded, easy trail along a creek—beautiful especially if the weather is warm.
Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park: Short walk with spiritual significance and serene views.

Other fun activities and sightseeing options to maximize a short trip include:

Scenic drives along Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) and Oak Creek Canyon.
Exploring local art galleries, shops, and cafes in Uptown Sedona.
Visiting Slide Rock State Park if you enjoy natural water features and a casual walk.
Booking a jeep tour or guided excursion to explore off-road trails without strenuous hiking.

Plan your itinerary to focus on a mix of short hikes, scenic drives, and local attractions so you can see as much as possible in just a few days without feeling rushed. Starting early in the day helps avoid crowds at popular trails and maximizes daylight for photography and sightseeing.

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