A day trip from The Phoenician: Sedona (what to plan)
Yes — Sedona is a feasible day trip from The Phoenician, Scottsdale but plan for roughly 2 hours each way by car (about 126 miles one way via I-17/AZ‑179). Leave early, pick a short hike or scenic stop, and expect most of your day to be driving plus 3–5 hours on-site in Sedona.
In this guide
Getting there and timing
Driving from The Phoenician, Scottsdale to Sedona typically takes about 2 hours each way following Loop 101 to I-17 north and AZ‑179; travel time varies with traffic. There is no scheduled resort shuttle to Sedona, so a rental car, rideshare for legs, or private car service are the usual options.
For a day trip, plan at least 4.5–6 hours in Sedona to visit one or two viewpoints, have a meal, and do a short walk. If you want to add a longer hike or multiple trailheads, consider an overnight stay instead.
- Depart early (6:30–7:30 a.m.) to avoid Phoenix-area traffic and make the most of cooler morning conditions.
- Bring water, sun protection, and layers — Sedona’s elevation and desert sun can make conditions changeable.
- If you prefer not to drive, ask The Phoenician concierge about private car services or on-site Go Rentals for a vehicle.
| Leg | Typical time |
|---|---|
| The Phoenician → Sedona (by car) | About 2 hours |
| Recommended minimum time in Sedona | 3–5 hours |
| Round-trip driving time | About 4 hours |
Where to go in Sedona on a short visit
With limited time, focus on a few iconic stops that minimize hiking distance but maximize views. Popular short options include Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross viewpoint.
If you prefer a short hike, Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock each have accessible trailheads with rewarding red-rock views; both can be busy mid-day so morning or late-afternoon visits are better.
- Airport Mesa — quick viewpoint, 360° vistas, short walk from parking.
- Bell Rock / Courthouse Butte — easy loop and many photo spots near the road.
- Chapel of the Holy Cross — short walk from parking to architectural viewpoint.
- Cathedral Rock — steeper and involves some scrambling; allow extra time if hiking.
| Spot | Why go |
|---|---|
| Airport Mesa | Fast panoramic views, short walk |
| Bell Rock | Iconic red-rock formations, near parking |
| Chapel of the Holy Cross | Architectural viewpoint with rock backdrop |
Activities: hiking, scenic drives and easy experiences
Sedona offers short hikes, scenic drives and organized experiences. For a quick outdoor dose, plan one short trail (30–90 minutes) or a stretch along AZ‑179 and the Red Rock Scenic Byway.
If you want a guided option, Sedona has guided jeep tours and short guided hikes; bookings are required for many operators, so reserve in advance if you prefer to join one that day.
- Short hikes: Bell Rock Pathway, Airport Mesa Loop (walk), Fay Canyon (flat approach).
- Scenic drives: Red Rock Scenic Byway (AZ‑179) for multiple pullouts and photos.
- Guided options: jeep tours or short guided hikes (reserve ahead).
| Activity | Time needed |
|---|---|
| Short trail/hike | 30–90 minutes |
| Scenic drive with stops | 1–2 hours |
| Guided jeep or hike | 2–3 hours (varies) |
Food and timing for meals
Sedona has a range of restaurants from casual cafés to sit-down restaurants. If you plan a single meal, reserve for lunch in town — downtown Sedona and the area along AZ‑179 both offer multiple choices.
Alternatively, pack snacks or a picnic if you want to maximize outdoor time. Return drive timing can affect dinner plans back at The Phoenician.
- Reserve lunch in advance if visiting a busy weekend or holiday.
- Pack water and easy snacks for short hikes and viewpoints.
- If you return to The Phoenician for dinner, on-site options include Mowry & Cotton, J&G Steakhouse (reservations required), The Phoenician Tavern, Thirsty Camel and The Marketplace.
| On-site evening option at The Phoenician | Notes |
|---|---|
| Mowry & Cotton | Breakfast–dinner; casual, porch seating |
| J&G Steakhouse | Dinner only; reservations required, Smart Casual |
| Thirsty Camel | Cocktails with Camelback views; open afternoons–midnight |
Practical tips while you stay at The Phoenician
Use The Phoenician concierge to book car services, guided hikes, or to arrange early breakfast to go. The resort does not provide a complimentary airport shuttle, but on-site Go Rentals and private car services are available.
Remember resort logistics: standard check-in is 4:00 pm and check-out is 11:00 am. The daily Resort Fee covers certain inclusions like bike rentals, morning yoga, tennis/pickleball court time and enhanced high-speed internet.
- Ask concierge about the guided Cholla Trail hike departing from the Athletic Club (offered for guests 14+).
- If driving yourself, check parking rules in Sedona trailheads and arrive early to secure a spot.
- Bring a refillable water bottle — Sonoran Desert conditions are dry and warm outside peak months.
| Hotel practicals | Detail |
|---|---|
| Check-in / Check-out | 4:00 pm / 11:00 am |
| Resort Fee | Daily fee includes bike rentals, yoga, tennis/pickleball time and enhanced Wi‑Fi |
| Car options | On-site Go Rentals; concierge can arrange private car service |
When to go: weather and crowds
Best weather months for comfortable daytime temperatures are generally March, April, October and November. Summer is hot (often above 97°F) and monsoon storms can bring brief afternoon thunderstorms from July through September.
Sedona and Scottsdale see higher visitor volumes January–April for events and spring training; if you prefer lighter crowds, consider shoulder seasons or weekdays for your day trip.
- Spring/fall: best balance of weather and daylight for hiking.
- Summer: lower prices but high heat and potential monsoons — plan morning activities.
- Winter: cooler days, fewer crowds, and sometimes clearer distant views.
| Season | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov | Most comfortable temperatures |
| May–Sep | Hotter; monsoon season July–Sep |
| Dec–Feb | Cooler; fewer crowds |
