Romance in the Red Rocks
Are you looking for romantic things for couples to do in Sedona to make your getaway unforgettable? Whether you are visiting for a day trip or spending several days soaking in the red rock views, I’ve got you covered!
Sedona is an outdoor lover’s paradise with recognitions such as the number one spot on Good Morning America’s “Most Beautiful Places in America” list and the nickname of the “Day Hike Capital of America”. With all the charms of a small mountain town, combined with easy access from Phoenix, and year round activity options, it is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.
You can choose activities to go as wild and free as you dare, or keep things more mellow and serene to rejuvenate from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There truly is something to do and explore for everyone.
Adventurous Activities during your fun Sedona visit
For the adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies
If your love story is filled with epic adventures that give you an adrenaline rush, then check out these romantic things for couples to do in Sedona that embrace that zest for the wild.
1. Include a Hike- or 5!
Sedona has been lovingly nicknamed the Day Hike Capital of America due to its easy access to close to 200 hiking trails that showcase the awe-inspiring red rock formations. Trails range from easy 0.5 mile strolls, to epic 10 mile peak bagging summits, and MANY options in between.
With so many choices, I highly recommend pairing one or two lesser traveled trails with the most popular ones so you aren’t competing with an ocean of people. The most popular trails include ones like Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, Soldier’s Pass and Bell Rock.
You will either need a red-rock parking pass or America the Beautiful Annual pass for most trailheads. Beware that we struggle with small parking lots that fill fast, so build in extra time to find a spot. The Sedona Shuttle system is implemented year round to help congestion and issues to and from several of the most popular trails including Cathedral Rock, Soldier Pass, and Dry Creek trailhead Thursday-Sunday.
Sedona Hike House Trail Finder
2. Take an Off-road Jeep Tour
Take a Jeep Tour to be surrounded by the grandeur of the red rocks, all while in the comfort of an open air ride. Jeep tours are fun ways to explore the desert without the extra work of a long hike, but still keeping some of that more adventurous spirit. You can go with a group, or schedule a private tour for just the two of you.
3. Rent a Jeep or ohv to explore on your own
Want the comfort of driving, but still want to control your own timeline? Rent an off-road vehicle to get to your desired location! There are multiple rental places in town that have vehicles set up for the most extreme trails throughout red rock country. Rentals range from a few hours to multi day options to fit your adventure plans
Red Rock Rubicon Jeep Rentals Sedona
4. Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take a sunrise Hot Air balloon ride up and over the red rock vistas to watch as the light slowly rises up over the horizon creating a reddish pink glow along the canyon walls. You can go with a small group, or charter the balloon for just the two of you!
Northern Light Balloon Expeditions
5. Take a Private Helicopter Tour
Want to see it all? Take an exhilarating Helicopter tour up and over the town as the pilot points out all the major geologic rock formations and tells you about the history of the area. Flight time ranges from 12-25 minutes, and pairs wonderfully with portraits on Airport Mesa and dinner at Mesa Grill (one if my personal favorite restaurants in Sedona!).
6. Go on a Horseback Trail Ride
Embrace the old west feel by embarking on a guided trail ride through the towering red rock canyons by local ranchers. Getting to see the landscape the way it was explored when the settlers first arrived riding on horseback is like traveling back in time.
Horsin’ Around Adventures Sedona
Wild Western Horseback Adventures
7. Go on a Mountain Bike Ride
Sedona isn’t only known for it’s hiking trails, tourists come from all over the world to take on the more hardcore, exposed slick rock ledges. But don’t worry, there are gorgeous trail options for all skill level with over 250 miles of red rock trails to choose from. So if riding bikes through gorgeous scenery sounds like the ultimate romantic day trip, pack up your bike for the visit, or rent one in town for your stay.
Easy Going Activities for Your romantic Sedona get away
For a more laid back way to take in the red rock wonderland
If a more rejuvenating visit filled with meandering through art shops, good food, and maybe sometime at the spa is more your style, these are some for my favorite more relaxing romantic things for couples to do in Sedona, Arizona.
8. Enjoy a Romantic Dinner
Sedona is home to many award winning restaurants combined with jaw dropping views to dine in on your romantic visit. I highly recommend reservations for some of the most popular places like Mariposa (only available by reservation) and my personal favorite, Mesa Grill. For other options be prepared for a wait if you go at peek times on a weekend or during high tourist seasons (spring and fall). Sedona is well known for limited parking and tight spaced restaurants, so just be prepared for both during your trip. You could also choose to hire a private chef service to craft a custom gourmet dining experience for you at your vacation rental to keep things more intimate.
9. Explore the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Center
Tlaquepaque is a beautiful place to explore, while enjoying the cobblestone paved oasis with tiled fountains, vine adorned walls, and old world charm. There are many fantastic restaurants on site including the Secret Garden Café (my favorite for breakfast or lunch), Rene or El Rincon for dinner, or grab a chai tea at the Chai Spot for one of the most cozy ambiance spots in town.
Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Center
10. Visit the Sedona Vortexes
Whether you believe in energy vortexes or not, there is no denying that Sedona has a certain “feel” that draws tourists from all over the world. Many swear by the spiritual healing and renewal powers of the energy running in these locations. Visiting one during your visit to soak it all in either through a guided meditation, or just simply relaxing for a few minutes, can be a great way to decide for yourself if the holistic spiritualists are onto something.
11. Enjoy a Spa Day
Sedona isn’t just an outdoor lover’s dream, it is also home to top-notch spas to rejuvenate. Whether you are spending your whole trip enjoying relaxing romantic things for couples to do in Sedona, or combining a spa day with a more extreme activity to help unwind your tight muscles, try a couple’s massage at one of the local award winning spas to help you unwind.
12. Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross was designed by sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude (a student of architect Frank Lloyd Wright) in the 1950s and is studied by students of architecture. The main stained-glass window is held together by a giant cross and overlooks the Verde Valley, along with some of the best views of several of the most iconic landmarks in Sedona. If you enjoy architecture and history, this easy access location is a must stop on your Sedona vacation.
13. Stay at a Unique Sedona location
While Sedona has world class Resorts and Spas, there are also more unique vacation rentals and Bed and Breakfasts that can elevate your stay in Red Rock country. Options like Tiny Camp, Creekside Inn Sedona, where you can wake up to red rock views in a more secluded atmosphere. Many of the Vacation Rentals even have private more secluded trails you can wander down for a romantic walk without the crowds.
14. Go Star Gazing
Sedona is a dark sky certified town by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDSA), making it a perfect place for stargazing during a new moon. You can enjoy this either on your own by visiting one of these Best Places to StarGaze Near Sedona locations, or with a guided tour lead by a local astronomy guide who will teach you about the night sky.
Top Rated Stargazing Apps by Space.com
15. Visit the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
Many people don’t realize that you can visit the Amitabha Stupa- a symbol of the Buddha- in the middle of the red painted desert for prayer, meditation, and the experience of peace and balance.
16. Visit Oak Creek at Crescent Moon Ranch- Red Rock Crossing
Consider visiting one of my favorite parks on the west side of town where Oak Creek runs through the red rock landscape creating a dreamy atmosphere. The sound of water rushing over the slickrock and pebbles of the stream while having a picnic, or wading through the cool water offers a striking contrast to the desert landscape surrounding Sedona.
17. Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad
Take a ride through the canyons watching wildlife on the Verde Canyon Railroad tour.
18. Have a Private Picnic Setup
Enjoy a romantic private Picnic where all the setup and cleanup is done for you, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy a customized charcuterie board with decorations and refreshments.
Sedona Cares Pledge
No matter the Activities you choose, preserving the delicate ecosystem within and surrounding Sedona is imperative to the sustainment of this enchanting area. Please always follow Leave No Trace Principles, and follow the posted signage for drone and trail usage.
Sedona has something to do for Everyone!
While Sedona has held on to its Southwestern heritage with many rugged experiences and local historic sites, it also boasts a vibrant artisan community with high end galleries, architecture, 5-star resorts, and world class cuisine. With 360 degree magnificent red rock views, and so many options for romantic things for couples to do in Sedona, it is no wonder it we are a mecca for proposals, engagements, weddings, elopements, vow renewals, and anniversary visitors from across the world!
Interested in a couple’s photography session during your visit?
I would love to be your Sedona Couple Photographer and planning consultant! Whether you want a quick easy to get to session among the red rocks, or someone to document your most extreme adventure, I’m your gal!
I will hike that mountain, drive those bumpy 4×4 roads, ride behind you on a trail ride, gear up to either meet you at the take off and landing location for those balloon or helicopter tours, or ride with you if you want the whole flight documented. Basically, no matter what activity you choose to add to your day, consider me your sidekick and adventure documenter. Is your trip to arrange a surprise proposal, celebrate an engagement, or maybe even to fit in an elopement? Yup- I do those too!
Contact me to begin planning your Couple’s Sedona Adventure Session today!
Sedona Photography and location inspiration
Jen & Orin’s Western meets Boho Sedona Elopement
Kim & Scott’s Hot Air Balloon Sedona Elopement
Moira & Jake’s Sedona Heritage Museum Micro Wedding & Scottsdale Reception
The Top Outdoor Sedona Wedding Venues
Madison & Charlie’s February Sedona Elopement with Family
Morgan & Leah’s Picnic Proposal at the Sedona Heritage Museum
Wow! These images are fantastic – thank you for putting this list together of Sedona activities! I need to get out there and ride horses through those incredible rock formations! Great work 🙂
I love these ideas! All feels so warm and fun 😍😊 I have to visit someday
Sedona is a beautiful location for couples sessions and any of your activity recommendations would be the perfect way to personalize a session. Love all the fun ideas!