Scenic Drives in Sedona: Three Routes with Epic Views & Local Eats!

Dry Creek Road Scenic Drive

These three scenic drives in Sedona will have you wondering if you are in a dream. Red rocks glow like fire, winding roads flirt with canyon walls, and every turn reveals a new “OMG, pull over and take a pic!” moment. Whether you are road-tripping solo, cruising with a playlist, or meandering with your brunch crew, these three drives will have you swooning over the landscape—and the lunch spots!

Let’s cruise through red rock heaven with these unforgettable drives:

Dry Creek Road to Boynton Canyon Road:

Boynton Canyon Scenic Drive

This scenic route is a local fave—and a hidden gem for visitors in the know. Start your drive heading north on Dry Creek Road from State Route 89A. You’ll wind your way through towering junipers, sagebrush-dotted terrain, and a sea of red rock monoliths. The vibe here is peaceful, rustic, and oh-so-Sedona.

What You’ll See

  • Secret Slickrock: Pull off for a quick photo op or hike. It’s got unreal views of Cathedral Rock from a lesser-known angle.
  • Boynton Canyon Vortex: Sedona is vortex country, and this one’s a vibe. Whether you believe in energy swirls or just want an epic canyon view, it’s a win.

Stretch Your Legs

  • Devil’s Bridge Trailhead: Take a detour to one of Sedona’s most iconic photo spots. You’ll hike to a natural rock bridge that’s equal parts thrilling and beautiful.
  • Boynton Canyon Trail: Gorgeous canyon walls and pine forests. If you only do one hike, let this be it!
  • Fay Canyon

Where to Eat

  • Che Ah Chi at Enchantment Resort – This is fine dining with a canyon view! Breakfast here feels like a spa day for your taste buds.
  • Tii Gavo – Casual, cozy, and totally Southwestern. Grab a mesa-view patio table, order a prickly pear lemonade, and dig into a killer fish taco or house-smoked burger.

Highway 179: The Red Rock Scenic Byway from I-17 to Uptown Sedona

Welcome to the drive that makes jaws drop. This stretch is basically Sedona’s red carpet—only with way more red rocks and a lot fewer paparazzi. It starts at I-17, zips through the Village of Oak Creek, and glides you right into Uptown Sedona. In just under 8 miles, you’ll see so much beauty you’ll forget you're even driving.

What You’ll See

  • Bell Rock + Courthouse Butte: These two formations greet you like royalty at the entrance to Sedona. There are multiple pullouts where you can hop out and soak in the views (or snap that selfie).
  • Chapel of the Holy Cross: An architectural marvel built into the red rocks. It's a spiritual and visual wow moment all in one.
  • Cathedral Rock: A must-see, especially as the sun starts to dip. It practically glows.

Bonus Stops

  • Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village – Cobblestone walkways, fountains, galleries, and cute boutiques? Yes, please!
  • Sedona’s Gallery Row – Art lovers, your heart may burst with joy.

Where to Eat

  • Miley’s Café (Village of Oak Creek) – Your go-to for a classic breakfast with a twist. Try the green chili scramble or banana walnut pancakes.
  • Pump House Station – Cozy and charming. Order the avocado toast and an espresso, then sit under the trees and pretend you're in Europe.
  • Creekside American Bistro – Red rock views AND decadent brunch? Say no more. The huevos rancheros and Bloody Marys are local legends.

Highway 89A: From Cottonwood to West Sedona – A Verde Valley Voyage

Hop on State Route 89A from Cottonwood to Sedona This gorgeous stretch of road—also known as the Red Rock Scenic Byway—serves up red rock views, winding curves, and that magical "wow, am I in a postcard?" kind of vibe as you get closer to Sedona.

What You’ll See

  • Sedona Skyline: An incredible view of the vast Red Rocks formations.
  • Thunder Mountain: No, not the Disneyland ride—this is the real deal. A majestic red rock formation that feels straight out of a Western.
  • More Stunning Red Rocks: As you approach Uptown Sedona - postcard-worthy panoramas, this short drive is big on wow factor.

Where to Eat

  • Hilltop Deli – Your go-to spot for big flavor and laid-back vibes! This local gem serves up mouthwatering sandwiches, fresh salads, and juicy burgers.
  • Tortas de Fuego (West Sedona) – Flavor bomb alert! This tiny-but-mighty spot serves sizzling tortas, street tacos, and big plates of spicy goodness.
  • Coffee Pot Restaurant – The legendary breakfast joint with 101 omelets. Yes, 101. Good luck choosing.

 Scenic Drives in Sedona: Final Thoughts

Sedona isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s that moment when the sunlight hits the rocks just right. It’s the quiet awe when you’re surrounded by red rock giants. And honestly? One of the best ways to soak it all in is from the comfort of your car (with plenty of snack breaks, of course).

Whether you're chasing vortex vibes, planning an epic hike, or just cruising with your windows down and your favorite playlist on blast, these three scenic drives will deliver the magic.

So fuel up, grab your camera, and prepare to fall in love with the road.

Related Articles

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive