Day Trips

Day trips in Sedona are designed for travelers who want to make the most of their time by exploring beyond the city. With 76 options—over a fifth of all tours sold here—these excursions cover everything from the Grand Canyon to Antelope Canyon, local wineries, and Sedona’s famous red rocks.

Most Sedona day trips are full-day tours, with durations from 5 to 11 hours and prices ranging from $16 for self-guided audio tours up to $475 for private, all-inclusive experiences. Nearly all are rated 4 stars or higher, and the best-reviewed focus on natural wonders, expert guides, and seamless logistics.

Day trips are a major part of Sedona’s tour scene, making up 22% of all offerings. With 76 products, there’s a wider variety here than in walking or cultural tours, and the median price is $313—higher than the destination’s overall median of $219. Most people pay between $120 and $475, with only a handful of options under $120.

Compared to other categories, day trips are among the priciest, especially for private or small-group tours to the Grand Canyon or Antelope Canyon. While walking and historical tours in Sedona cluster around $188, day trips reflect the longer distances, higher inclusions, and more complex logistics involved.

Despite the higher prices, 95% of Sedona day trips are rated 4 stars or better. The best-reviewed tours consistently highlight knowledgeable guides, well-chosen stops, and smooth transportation, making them popular with first-time visitors and those looking for a hassle-free way to see the region’s major sights.

Choosing the right Sedona day trip depends on your interests and budget. Grand Canyon tours dominate the category, ranging from $189 group outings to $475 private experiences. These tours consistently receive top marks for guide expertise and convenient hotel pickup, but the difference in price often comes down to group size and exclusivity. If you want a tailored experience with more flexibility, private tours like the Private Grand Canyon Day Tour justify the higher cost with personal attention and customizable stops.

For travelers interested in Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, expect to pay $312 or more. These tours are among the longest, often stretching to 11 hours, and reviews praise the scenery and the insight from local guides. However, some guests mention that time at the attractions can feel short compared to the hours spent driving.

Wine tours, such as the Verde Valley Wine Tour at $109, offer a more relaxed pace and a lower price point. They’re popular with groups and those looking for a social outing, but tasting fees are not always included, so factor in extra costs. The only sub-$30 options are self-guided audio tours, which suit independent travelers but receive mixed reviews—especially regarding value and the clarity of directions.

What disappoints people most often? For Grand Canyon tours, a few guests have reported aggressive driving or guides who focus more on personal stories than on the sites (as seen on some private and group tours). On Antelope Canyon trips, the main complaints are about short visit times and the high ratio of travel to sightseeing. Wine tours draw criticism when inclusions are unclear, especially around tasting fees. Across all types, last-minute cancellations and lack of communication are rare but do occur.