The Ultimate 24 Hours in Sedona Itinerary
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Planning 24 hours in Sedona? Follow this budget-friendly itinerary featuring Bell Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Tlaquepaque, and Uptown Sedona sunset views.
Can we be honest about Sedona?
One day isn’t enough.
We could have easily spent another two or three days exploring more hiking trails, wineries, and hidden overlooks. But if you’re road-tripping through Arizona or only have 24 hours to spare, don’t worry—you can still experience some of the very best Sedona has to offer without spending a fortune.
This itinerary mixes iconic attractions, easy hikes, amazing food, and a few budget-friendly tips we’ve learned along the way.
Start Your Morning with Breakfast
Option 1: Sedonuts (Our Favorite)
📍 Address: 2370 W State Route 89A, Suite 6, Sedona, AZ 86336
🌐 Website: https://sedonutsandcoffee.com/
Every great adventure starts with coffee…and donuts.
Sedonuts quickly became one of our favorite breakfast stops in Sedona because it’s affordable, delicious, and much quicker than sitting down at a restaurant.
If it’s your first visit, we highly recommend ordering:
- Their classic glazed donut
- Mini Vortex Donuts
- The Sedonuccino
It’s the perfect breakfast before heading out for a morning hike.
Option 2: The Famous McDonald’s
📍 Address: 2380 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
If you’re traveling on a really tight budget, don’t overlook McDonald’s.
While the breakfast menu is exactly what you’d expect, this location is famous for one reason…
It’s the only McDonald’s in the world with turquoise arches instead of the famous golden arches.
When it was built in the early 1990s, city officials wanted the restaurant to blend into Sedona’s famous red rock landscape. Instead of the bright yellow “Golden Arches,” McDonald’s agreed to install teal-colored arches instead.
It’s become one of Sedona’s most photographed roadside attractions and makes for a fun (and inexpensive) breakfast stop.
Bell Rock
📍 Address: Bell Rock Vista Parking Area
4999 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86351
🌐 Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/coconino
Only about 10 minutes from Uptown Sedona, Bell Rock is one of the best hikes in the area—and one we’d recommend to almost anyone.
The trail starts off relatively easy, making it perfect for beginners, families, or anyone who simply wants incredible views without tackling an all-day hike.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue climbing higher onto Bell Rock, where the trail becomes steeper and requires a little scrambling.
We actually stayed near the base.
Instead of rushing to the top, we spread out on the rocks, relaxed for a while, and just enjoyed the scenery. Honestly, it ended up being one of our favorite moments of the entire trip.
From Bell Rock, you can even see the Chapel of the Holy Cross in the distance.
Fun Fact
Bell Rock is believed to be one of Sedona’s famous energy vortexes. Whether you believe in vortexes or not, thousands of visitors come each year hoping to experience its calming and uplifting energy.
Parking Tips
Parking is available at the Bell Rock Vista lot, but it fills quickly—especially after 9:00 AM.
A Red Rock Pass is required to park here unless you already have an America the Beautiful Pass.
Our advice?
Get there early.
Not only will you have a much easier time parking, but you’ll also beat both the crowds and the Arizona heat.
And don’t forget your water. There isn’t much shade.
Chapel of the Holy Cross
📍 Address: 780 Chapel Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
🌐 Website: https://www.chapeloftheholycross.com/
After Bell Rock, it’s only a short drive to one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is literally built into the side of the red rocks and has been welcoming visitors since 1956.
Whether you’re visiting for prayer, reflection, or simply the incredible views, this stop is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Admission is completely free, making it one of our favorite budget-friendly attractions in Sedona.
Inside you’ll find a peaceful sanctuary with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the red rocks.
Parking Tips
Parking is free but extremely limited.
If the main lot is full, you’ll usually have to wait for someone to leave.
There is also a short uphill walk from the parking area to the chapel entrance, so comfortable shoes are definitely recommended.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
📍 Address: 336 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86336
🌐 Website: https://tlaq.com/
After hiking, we loved slowing things down at Tlaquepaque.
Designed to look like a traditional Mexican village, it’s filled with cobblestone walkways, fountains, shaded courtyards, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and local musicians.
Even if shopping isn’t in your budget, it’s still worth visiting.
Walking around is completely free, and honestly, it’s one of the prettiest places in Sedona.
We spent about an hour wandering through the village before continuing on.
Explore Uptown Sedona
📍 Location: Main Street & AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
🌐 Visitor Information: https://visitsedona.com/
No trip to Sedona feels complete without walking through Uptown.
This is where you’ll find souvenir shops, local boutiques, ice cream, restaurants, and some of the best people-watching in town.
Budget Parking Tip
Many visitors automatically pay for parking…
But you don’t have to.
There are several free public parking lots just outside the busiest section of Uptown if you’re willing to walk a few extra minutes.
That’s exactly what we did, and we’d much rather spend that money on food than parking.
Happy Hour at Art of Wine
📍 Address: 336 State Route 179, Suite B118, Sedona, AZ 86336
🌐 Website: https://artofwinesedona.com/
Need a break after all that walking?
Head over to Art of Wine.
This cozy wine bar specializes in Arizona wines and frequently offers happy hour specials, making it one of the more affordable ways to enjoy local wine without booking an expensive winery tour.
If your schedule lines up with happy hour, we definitely recommend taking advantage of it.
It’s the perfect place to sit back, cool off, and recharge before dinner.
End the Day at Canyon Breeze
📍 Address: 300 N State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
🌐 Website: https://canyonbreezerestaurant.com/
We can’t think of a better way to finish the day than dinner at Canyon Breeze.
The food is reasonably priced, the menu has something for everyone, and if you can grab a table on the patio…
You’ll be treated to one of the best sunset views in Sedona.
Watching the colors change across the red rocks while enjoying dinner was easily one of our favorite memories from the trip.
Budget Tip
The portions are generous enough to split if you’re traveling as a couple.
Saving money and getting an incredible view?
That’s a win-win in our book.
Final Thoughts
If you only have one day in Sedona, don’t stress about trying to see everything.
Instead, slow down.
Enjoy your coffee. Take your time on Bell Rock. Wander through Tlaquepaque. Watch the sunset from Canyon Breeze.
Sometimes the best part of traveling isn’t checking attractions off a list—it’s taking the time to enjoy where you are.
We hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time in Sedona without stretching your budget.
Ready to start booking? Makes sure to check out our blog on 10 Travel Money Hacks to Save on Your Next Adventure.
We share real travel experiences, practical money-saving tips, and honest advice to help you see more while spending less.
— SS On The Go
