16 Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona in November That You Didn’t Know About

When one thinks of Sedona, Arizona, the immediate things that come to mind are the obvious – red rocks, hiking, and spiritualness. But what if I shared with you 16 things to do in Sedona in November, that you didn’t know about…? Yes, it’s possible that you may not know about some of these other activities because they’re only known by locals such as Kundalini teacher Shakti Sita. When we went to visit Shakti Sita, Pat’s sister, in November, we spent 5 days experiencing activities that others might not be as in the know about. The list below includes some more common ones…like hiking, but some less common ones…like skiing – yes you can see in Sedona. If you found any of these unique or interesting or if you have any others you would add, please share in the comments. I’m always happy to hear from others and learn more!

1. Meditate at a Vortex

Sedona encourages insight, especially spiritual insight. These spiritual insights are best captured at vortex spots found throughout Sedona. The Native Americans referred to them as “power places” for a reason. It’s a funnel shape created by the motion of spiraling energy coming from the earth into the universe. Seeking out these vortexes and spending some time meditating at them can be a peaceful and enlightening experience. As you gaze quietly at the place where the distant blue sky and Secret Mountain touched. Meditate or chant a Kundalini mantra that sounds like the word ‘hard’ on repeat. The mantra endeavors to bring prosperousness and success in whatever form you need it. If you’re not as familiar with meditation, a guide like Shakti Sita can help you get the most out of your spiritual trek.

2. Hike at Sunrise and Sunset

The best times of day to hike are at sunrise and sunset, but none of them are easy. If you plan on hiking at sunrise, get there before the sun rises or you won’t find parking. But trust me, the trek is worth it as you watch the sun hit the red rocks turning them from a dark orange, to pink to yellow and then bright red. If feels like something out of The Lion King. Sunset is a beautiful time as well, but it is the most popular time. Try and head to unknown spots during sunset to avoid the masses. For instance, instead of going to Airport Mesa, head to Secret Slick Rock Trail or Jordan Road Trail.

3. Rent an ATV into the Desert

The reason why you should rent an ATV is not because it’s cool, but there is that aspect too. It’s because it can get you places that your car and feet cannot. And that’s wayyy deep into the Red Rock canyons and deserts. It’s a great way to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds. I actually think they’re even better than the pink Jeeps you’ll see everyone driving around everywhere because the Jeeps may limit you as far as how far you can go. With the ATVs you will go down some rocky, and sketchy, narrow spots, but get into the heart of Sedona.

4. Take a UFO Tour

Whether you believe in aliens or not, a UFO tour experience is in the books when you’re visiting Sedona, Arizona. UFO Tourism has been on the rise over the last few years. And trust me, even if you’re a none believer, it’s very fun. It takes you back to your childhood days and has you questioning what could and couldn’t be. And where better to go on a UFO Tour experience then in Sedona. Sedona is known for having some of the highest UFO sightings.

5. Spend the Night Stargazing

Sedona has been designated by the International Dark-Sky Association as the world’s eighth International Dark Sky Community. That means it “protects it’s dark night skies as a natural wonder” so people can stargaze and watch the stars. That means that light pollution is minimal in the town. Therefore, when you’re wandering around at night, there is not a lot of lighting on the streets (aside from Main Street). Remember to carry around your phone and keep the flashlight on…also so you can keep an eye out for javelinas! A UFO Tour not only gives you the chance to look out for UFOs, but also have a personal guide talk you through the stargazing and galaxies in the unpolluted black night skies. Even if you choose not to take a UFO tour, you should spend an evening outside looking out for shooting stars and calling out galaxies and constellations.

6. Shop at a Crystal Store

You can’t leave Sedona without visiting a crystal shop. It’s an essential part of the experience here. But why are crystals so important here? Crystals are natural energy holders. They emit and absorb energy from elements. That’s why a big part of visiting Sedona is purchasing a crystal, charging it at a vortex site with powerful energies and intentions, and taking it home with you. The type of crystal you purchase however, is important. They all emit different energy with a different purpose. You’d be surprised by how pricey a crystal can get though, so make sure you come in with a budget in mind! Once you buy one, head to a vortex spot, meditate and charge it up with powerful energy to take home.

7. Explore Sedona with a Kundalini Teacher and Get in Touch With It’s Spiritual Side

As mentioned before, the upside of having someone like Shakti Sita take us around is that she is not only a local, but helps you experience Sedona as it’s meant to be experienced from a cleansing spiritual side. It could be hard to navigate and find meditation practice in the chaos of Sedona, but she helps you find it, seize it and do it the right way. You can start your morning with a Kundalini practice in her studio, The Pallas, or do a private day trip with her throughout Sedona. It’s worth the experience, it’s quite unique and touching.

8. Ski Flagstaff in the Winter (Yes – that’s a thing)

If you’re in Sedona between November and March, you’d be surprised to learn that there is a ski resort right next door: Flagstaff. I’ve never skied it, but Pat’s parents have and said it was a pretty cool experience. To be on a mountain with snow looking out at the red rocks in front of you. Can you imagine?! On my list of to-do’s for sure.

9. Eat Unique Southwestern Delicacies like Cactus Fries and Rattlesnake Bites

Cactus fries, rattlesnake sausage or bites, elk chops, boar and bison. In the Southwest, and especially at Cowboy Club, these rare delicacies are available – if there isn’t a shortage. In a lovely western memorabilia style restaurant, you’ll feel like your back in the Ol’ West. Unfortunately, when we dined there, there was a rattlesnake shortage so we weren’t able to taste it. But if you get the chance, it’s a must. Cowboy Club is the number 2 seller of rattlesnake in the US! But we did get to indulge in cactus fries and those are a must-try as well. If I had to choose, I would go for regular fries, but when in Arizona. Cactus fries are fried and battered like regular fries, but surprisingly a lot softer, watery and jello-like then regular fries. 

10. Go Visit A Historic Site and Learn about the Indigenous People

The Palatki Heritage Site is one of the largest cliff dwellings of red rock country. Palatki means “red house” in Hopi language. The Sinagua Indians, or Sedona’s first indigenous people, lived in these cliff dwellings from about AD 1130 to AD 1350. The dwelling is very hard to see, it is well camouflaged into the cliffs. That was likely to hide from invaders. Their position in the cliff also protected them from rain and allowed them to collect potable water when necessary since they were so far from a water source. It was likely that a clan or family of 30-50 members lived in Palatki Heritage Site. There is rock art such as pictographs, petroglyphs and more visible on the site as well. Space is limited on these tours so make sure to purchase a ticket in advance. They only accept 12 people in a group at a time. They leave every half hour and the tour lasts 1.5 hours. Reservations are required.

11. Eat 101 omelets

It’s exactly what it sounds like. I don’t know if there is a Guinness World Record for the most amount of omelets served at a restaurant, but if there was one, I’m pretty sure Coffee Pot would win. It’s an all-day diner and restaurant located in front of a red rock called Coffee Pot Mesa, hence the name coffee pot. It’s most distinguishing feature is that it’s home to 101 omelets. I didn’t even think there were 101 things you could put in an omelet. The price is also cheap, which is not something that can be said for the rest of Sedona. You’ll find pancakes, bacon, eggs, more eggs, more eggs…and of course, coffee. The coffee is served in a really nice locally made ceramic coffee cup that you can buy from the small gift shop on the way out. 

12. Taste Vegan Food – You Have to Here

There’s a very big vegan scene in Sedona. Almost every restaurant you go to will have vegan options. Must be something to do with the “cleansing of the mind, body, and soul.” I’m not sure. But either way, when in Sedona, do as the Sedonians do. I would give vegan food a try just to say you did. The one big place for vegans, which also has a beautiful outdoor area, is Chocolatree.

13. Take a Day Trip to the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon really isn’t that far away from Sedona. It’s only a 2 – 2.5 hour drive one way and with zero traffic. It’s worth a day trip and hike out there.

14. Keep Your Eyes Out For Javelinas

Be careful at night and don’t be scared when you see javelinas, pronounced ha-ve-leenas. They come out at night and look for people’s trash cans to scour for food. They look scary, but will not attack if you if not provoked. They’re actually huge 40-60 lbs rodents, not pigs. And if you look at their face closely enough, you’ll see their resemblance to mice! Just stay away and keep walking. There are also coyotes and bobcats, but you’re much less likely to see those. If one does start to come towards you, make loud noises to scare them away. Don’t try outrunning them…they can run up to 35 mph.

15. Do a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

We ourselves didn’t do this, but we saw the hot air balloons as we were hiking up Cathedral Rock during sunrise. We did this experience in Cappadoccia, Turkey though. I can say it’s a beautiful view, particularly during sunrise.

16. Explore a Replica Mexican Craftsman Village

Lastly, visit Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Shopping village, a maze that contains over 50 specialty shops and galleries with quirky finds for everyone. But what did it for me was the architecture and flavor of Old Mexico entrenched throughout. Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Shopping village was built by Abe Miller, a Nevada real estate developer who came across Sedona while on vacation. He had a passion for Mexico and was seeking a place to bring to life what he loved so much about Mexico closer to home. When he came across the plot of land near Oak creek, he knew this was the place where he’d build an enchanting arts village that reflected the charm and mood of Old Mexico. Influenced by the lively and creative arts scene Tlaquepaque in Guadalajara, he created Tlaquepaque in Sedona with the idea of allowing visitors to take a look into the artisans world on full display.

>> Next: Sedona Itinerary: 5 Days With A Day Trip to the Grand Canyon