Sedona and Scottsdale are the two places most visitors to Arizona weigh up. Sedona is a small town surrounded by red rock. Scottsdale is a city with golf, restaurants, nightlife and more places to stay for a group. Here is how they compare, and why many people do both.
Back to the estate| What matters | Sedona | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | Red rock formations all around town | Desert mountains and saguaros |
| Golf | A few courses | Many courses, including well-known resort courses |
| Dining and nightlife | Quieter evenings | Old Town restaurants and nightlife |
| Getting there | Roughly two hours from Phoenix by car (estimate) | About 25 to 30 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor (estimate) |
| Group stays | A smaller town, so book early | A larger city with more choice of houses for 8 to 16 |
For a group, the simplest plan is a base in Scottsdale with one full day in Sedona. Leave early, see the red rocks and have lunch in town, then drive back for dinner and the pool. See a Sedona day trip from Scottsdale for the route and timing.
Comparing other trips? See Scottsdale or Tucson and Scottsdale or Palm Springs.
Sedona suits a quiet, scenic trip. Scottsdale suits golf, dining, nightlife and larger groups. Many visitors stay in Scottsdale and spend a day in Sedona.
Roughly two hours by car, depending on traffic and route. This is an estimate, so check a live map before you go.
Scottsdale is usually easier: shorter drives, a private pool at a rental house, and more to do close by.
Drive times are estimates for a typical day and are not measured. Check live traffic before you travel.
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Six bedrooms, a heated pool and spa, pickleball court, golf simulator, and putting green: the perfect retreat after a day exploring Scottsdale.
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