Sedona: Red Rocks, Chapel & Vortexes Half-Day Tour

Summary

Red rocks, spiritual sites and artsy stops on a Sedona day trip

You’ll ride through Sedona’s iconic red rock landscapes in an open-air vehicle with a local guide who actually knows their stuff. Expect stops at spiritual spots like Amitabha Stupa and Rachel’s Knoll vortex site, plus time to wander Tlaquepaque Arts Village and grab lunch in Uptown. You might leave feeling lighter — or just sunburned (bring sunscreen).

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was that weirdly sweet smell in the air — maybe juniper? We’d barely left Uptown Sedona when our guide, Mark, pointed out Bell Rock through the open-air roof. The sun was already bouncing off those red cliffs in a way that made me squint (should’ve brought better sunglasses). Mark had this habit of telling stories mid-drive, like how Thunder Mountain got its name — apparently it really does get struck by lightning all the time. I tried to picture it but mostly just stared at the color of the rocks. It’s almost too much, you know?

We stopped at the Chapel of the Holy Cross and I remember running my hand along that warm stone wall outside. There was this hush inside, even with other people around. After that, we cruised up to Sedona Airport Overlook for this wide-open view — honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so small looking out over Seven Canyons. Lunch in Uptown was casual; I grabbed something quick so I could wander Tlaquepaque Arts Village instead. Little shops everywhere and some guy playing guitar near a fountain. Didn’t buy anything but still kind of wish I’d gotten that weird ceramic lizard.

The Amitabha Stupa stop surprised me most. It smelled faintly of incense and someone had left flowers tucked into a prayer flag. Mark explained about vortex energy at Rachel’s Knoll — I’m not sure what I felt there except a quiet sort of buzz under my feet. Maybe it’s just being away from everything for a second. Either way, by the time we rolled back through those red rock formations toward town, my head felt lighter than when we started. Still thinking about that view from Cathedral Rock days later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sedona sightseeing and cultural stops

• Cruise Red Rock Scenic Byway
• Pass Bell Rock
• Pass Cathedral Rock
• Pass Soldier's Pass
• View Thunder Mountain
• Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross
• Stop at Sedona Airport Overlook
• Visit Tlaquepaque Arts Village
• Explore Uptown Sedona and lunch
• Visit Vortex at Rachel's Knoll
• Visit Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

Top questions

How long is the Sedona sightseeing tour?

The tour lasts about half a day with departures at 10AM daily.

Is lunch included on this Sedona day trip?

No, lunch is not included but you’ll have an hour to eat in Uptown Sedona.

What are some key stops on this tour?

You’ll visit Bell Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock, Tlaquepaque Arts Village, Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park, and Rachel’s Knoll vortex site.

Is there hotel pickup for this Sedona tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours depart from a central location in Sedona.

Are children or infants allowed on this tour?

Yes—infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are available.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Will we have free time during the tour?

You’ll have about an hour to explore Uptown Sedona and Tlaquepaque Arts Village on your own.

What should I bring for the Sedona sightseeing tour?

Sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes and maybe water—though bottled water is provided.

What’s included

Your day includes transportation in a custom open-air vehicle with 360-degree views, live commentary from your local guide throughout each stop, bottled water to keep you cool under that Arizona sun, free time for lunch in Uptown Sedona (lunch cost not included), visits to all major landmarks like Chapel of the Holy Cross and Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park before heading back through those famous red rocks.