20 Best Places to Take Pictures Near Sedona Arizona in 2023

The presence of vortex sites made Sedona a spiritual place. People feel inspired and energetic in those spots, and those are the best places to take pictures near Sedona. Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon are those locations.

Few tour operators also provide Arizona Sedona vortex tours. Don’t get surprised to see people doing meditation or yoga on these vortex sites. The presence of red rock and green vegetation made Sedona a unique place.

The city of the red sandstones in Arizona has a lot of stories for tourists. Here is the list of Instagram-worthy photography destinations below.

1. Chapel of the Holy Cross

Stands on the red rocks with their beautiful architectural detailing are widely prevalent among tourists. The three-storeyed Roman Catholic chapel offers a serene place to seek peace. This photography location is open from 9 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Saturday and from 10 AM – 5 PM on Sundays.

2. Sedona / Red Rock Country

This scenic beauty at the heart of Arizona is world-famous for its crimson landscapes. It is a country dotted with residual red sandstone formations. This Instagrammable spot is a few miles away from Phoenix and south of the Grand Canyon.

Sedona is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Many hiking trails, panoramic scenery, and cutting waterfalls make it super popular. The red rock country is also famous for giving spiritual energy from the energy centers or vortexes.

3. Devil’s Bridge Trail

This off-road driving trail is arch-shaped and made of natural sandstone in Arizona USA. It’s a beautiful site in Sedona. 1.8-mile hiking is needed to get up and down. Once reaching the top of the trail, you will be gifted with wonderful views. It’s one of the best places to photograph in Sedona.

4. Oak Creek Canyon

About six camping grounds are present in Oak Creek Canyon. Camping is an opportunity in this Instagram-worthy destination. For guests, there are tables and chairs to sit and relax.

The authority gives a maximum of 7 days limit for camping. Some sites can book earlier. You will find several fish in the creeks. Overall, it is an exceptional place to go with family.

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5. Palatki Heritage Site

The word Palatki means red house. It is in Coconino Forest near Sedona. This site opens throughout the year. Once upon a time, Sinagua used to live here. It’s one of the landscape photography spots in Sedona.

6. Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

The village is designed in a Mexican style. It is situated close to “Oak Creek.” From jewelry to textiles, all kinds of products are found here. Buying those beautiful pieces of stuff is advisable.

7. Cathedral Rock Trail and Reflecting Pool

Cathedral Rock Trail is one of the four vortex spots. It emits rejuvenating energy from the top. In 500 Back o’ Beyond Road, climb up the mesas and buttes for a surreal view. The best time to start the hiking trail is sunrise or sunset (with headlights). Brisk walkers can finish the track within 45 minutes.

8. Sedona Chamber of Commerce

It is the official governmental organization promoting and maintaining tourism in Sedona. At 331 Forest Road & SR 89A. Tourists can get authentic travel information here. Get help with bookings, directions, accommodations, and everything happening in Sedona. It’s one of the best places to take pictures near Sedona.

Read 10 Best Natural Hot Springs Near Sedona AZ

9. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

A holy Buddhist shrine – the “stupa,” lies at the foot of this Thunder Mountain in Sedona. Named after Lord Buddha, the place emanates peace and positivity. Its intricate architecture with a bronze statue of Buddha. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM; advance booking is recommended.

10. Airport Mesa

Airport Mesa is a beautiful place to have great views. If you want to get a wonderful panorama, never stop yourself from visiting here. Hike for 4,500 feet, be ready with your camera, and capture nature. It’s one of the best photo spots in Sedona.

11. Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout

It is a popular sunset/sunrise point on Sedona’s Airport Road. Also known as the Sedona Airport Vortex, tourists can feel the calming energy here. The outstanding view of the red stones at the golden hour is enchanting. The distance of this trail is 1.5 miles. It takes around 2 hours to complete. The parking charge is $3.

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12. Heritage Museum in Sedona

Here it has been shown mainly about the early settlers. Few Hollywood stars came to get their movie filmed. It is such an iconic place to take pictures in Sedona.

13. Jordan Road Trail

This hiking trail is mainly combined with two other trails – Soldier’s Pass and Cibola Pass. Climb the popular route to get a panoramic view of the red sandstone topography.

Wearing proper shoes and carrying water is recommended. Behold the Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole, Soldier’s Arch, and Coffee Pot Rock along your trail. The best time is from 6 AM to 6 PM.

14. Chocola Tree Organic Eatery

Head here at 595 West Highway 89A Sedona, AZ 86336. Famous for their organically sourced meals and enjoy a good brunch here. Order for takeaways if planning to eat while traveling. From assorted chocolates to tasty gluten-free meals, serve your appetite with the best.

15. Slide Rock State Park

This apple orchard transformed into a state park offers a vast area for tourist attraction. The park hosts several fun things like hiking trails, wildlife sightings, swimming, and kid activities. Booking spots for events like picnics and marriage are also done here. In addition, it is a fun site for outdoor activity through the Oak Creek-carved landscape. Entry fee: $20.

Location: 6871 N. Highway, 89A Sedona, AZ 86336

16. Grasshopper Point Swimming & Picnic Area

Near Sedona in the Oak Creek Canyon lies this famous picnic spot. The Red Wonder of Sedona comes next to the Grand Canyon with its lovely view of Arizona. They restrict camping and campfires.

Jumping off the cliff into the swimming hole rests at your discretion. Open from 9 AM to Dusk, the best time to visit is from March to November. It is a fun sight for wildlife and bird watching, nature photography, family picnics, and cooling off.

17. Bell Rock

One of the four vortex sites in Sedona is the Bell Rock Trail. See the bell-shaped red rock formation and scenic views on the way. Brisk walkers take almost 3 hours to complete the Bell Rock Pathway. Carrying water bottles and hats as recommended—$5 per head entry fee.

18. Seven Sacred Pools

Visit after the rainy season or snow-melting spring for a fun retreat. Complete the hiking trail within 1 hour and 30 minutes. Off the Pools lies the Soldier’s Pass. Expect beautiful waterfalls plunging into the rock-carved pools. Be careful while you walk, as it can get slippery post-rains. Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM daily.

19. Red Rock State Park

Treat yourself to the breathtaking beauty while exploring here. Pay just $5 as an entry fee to hike this trail filled with red and rocky views. Easy at first, it later becomes of moderate intensity. Finally, get to the highest point – the Eagle’s Nest, a must-visit when here. Get hold of the hiking equipment, dry food, and water before starting. It’s one of the best places to photograph in Sedona.

20. Merry Go Round Rock

Merry Go Round Rock is a unique wedding venue and a popular spot for taking pictures near Sedona. The rock formation is located near Schnebly Hill Road. There is a small parking lot at the site, and it’s a short walk to the rocks.

This natural formation provides a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony. The rock formation is a large boulder carved into a Merry go round by wind and water erosion.

Conclusion

So out of this list, which is the most Instagram-worthy place for photography in Sedona you like the most? Let me know in the comment.