Sedona during the day is one of the most beautiful places in Arizona, but at night? It’s straight up magical! The best things to do in Sedona at night are out of this world, from stargazing in spots so dark you can see entire galaxies to finding secret wine bars tucked between those famous red rocks.
When the sun sets behind those towering cliffs, the whole vibe shifts. The desert comes alive with nighttime jeep tours, local spots light up with live music, and the stargazing is better than any planetarium show you’ve ever seen. Let me show you why Sedona after dark is absolutely unreal!
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this private night hike through Sedona’s magical red rocks! They take you to secret spots for epic sunset views and stargazing, plus provide all the equipment like night vision gear and headlamps. Perfect for experiencing Sedona’s famous dark sky status away from the tourist crowds, this adventure is absolutely a must-do on a Sedona itinerary in my opinion.
Best Things to Do in Sedona at Night (2025 Guide)
Are you ready to explore the most unique things to do in Sedona in the nighttime? As mentioned earlier, there’s a wide range of exciting activities in Sedona after dark. Keep reading to find where to go in Sedona at night!
1. Stargaze at Airport Mesa overlook
Airport Mesa is hands down the easiest stargazing spot to reach in Sedona. You can literally drive right up to the scenic overlook and park for just $3, then walk across the street to some of the best night sky views you’ll get without hiking. I’ve been here multiple times, including at my recent mastermind retreat I hosted in Sedona, and it’s always packed at sunset but clears out nicely for stargazing afterward.
The overlook sits high enough that you’re away from most of Sedona’s light pollution, and the views stretch out over Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Bell Rock. What makes this spot special is that you don’t need any special gear – just show up after dark and look up. That said, if you want the full experience, there are professional stargazing tours that meet here with high-powered telescopes. The parking lot has portable toilets and is wheelchair accessible, making it perfect for families or anyone who can’t handle the more challenging hiking spots. Just don’t expect to have it all to yourself on weekends.
2. Eat dinner with red rock views at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill is worth every penny if you want to combine amazing food with those Instagram-worthy red rock views everyone talks about. Chef Lisa Dahl runs this place, and honestly, it’s one of the few restaurants where the food actually lives up to the epic scenery. I’d recommend getting there right before sunset so you can watch the rocks light up while you eat.
The menu focuses on Latin-inspired dishes using local ingredients, and their steaks and empanadas are legitimately good. Dinner runs from 4:30pm-9pm Sunday through Thursday, and until 10pm on Friday and Saturday. Here’s the thing though – they have a strict dress code (no hiking gear, flip-flops, or baseball caps), and dinner is by reservation only. You’re looking at fine dining prices, but the panoramic views from every table make it feel special. The outdoor patio is where you want to sit if weather permits. I’ve eaten here twice and would go back, which says a lot since there are so many restaurant options in Sedona.
3. Walk through Tlaquepaque Arts Village after dark
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village becomes this magical, quiet place once the shops close and the crowds disappear. During the day it’s packed with tourists, but at night you can actually stroll the cobblestone paths and appreciate the beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture without fighting for photos. I love coming here around 8pm when the lanterns are lit but it’s not too late.
The village stays open for walking even after the galleries close, and the courtyards and archways look completely different in the evening light. It’s free to wander around, and you’ll often hear live music drifting from nearby restaurants. The whole place has this romantic, old-world vibe that feels like you’re somewhere in Mexico rather than Arizona. It’s perfect for couples or anyone who wants a peaceful break from Sedona’s more adventure-focused activities. Just don’t expect much in terms of shopping since everything closes by 6 or 7pm.
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4. Visit Slide Rock State Park for nighttime creek sounds
Slide Rock State Park closes to swimmers at 6pm (5pm in winter), but here’s what most people don’t know – the area around the park along Oak Creek is still accessible for evening visits. You can park along Highway 89A north of the official entrance (you’ll need a Red Rock Pass for $5) and hike down to hear the creek sounds without paying the $20-30 entrance fee.
The water sounds are incredibly relaxing after a hot day in Sedona, and the cooler evening temperatures make it perfect for just sitting by the creek and unwinding. I’ve done this several times when I wanted the Oak Creek experience without the daytime crowds and high admission costs. The creek runs year-round, so you’ll always have that soothing water sound. Just bring a flashlight for the short hike down, and remember this isn’t about swimming – it’s about experiencing Oak Creek Canyon’s peaceful evening atmosphere. The official park itself has some beautiful red rock formations surrounding it, making it a photographer’s dream even in low light.
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5. Take a nighttime Pink Jeep tour through red rocks
Pink Jeep Tours offers some evening tours, and they’re actually way better than the daytime versions if you can handle a little less visibility. The sunset and twilight tours give you that golden hour lighting on the red rocks that makes everything look incredible. I took the Broken Arrow sunset tour and it was bumpy as hell, but the views were unreal.
You’re looking at around $100+ per person for a 2-hour tour depending on the season and day of the week. The guides know their stuff and take you to spots you’d never find on your own. The evening light makes the rock formations glow in ways that photos can’t capture. Book in advance because the sunset tours sell out fast, especially during peak season. The jeeps are open-air, so dress warmly for evening rides since it gets cold quick once the sun goes down. These tours are definitely touristy, but they’re touristy for a reason – they work.
6. Listen to nature sounds at Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon at night is completely different from the busy hiking destination it is during the day. The creek sounds become the main soundtrack, and you’ll hear wildlife you never notice when it’s crowded. I park at one of the pullouts along Highway 89A and just listen – it’s surprisingly therapeutic.
The best spots are about 3-4 miles north of Sedona where the canyon narrows and the creek sounds echo off the canyon walls. You don’t need to hike anywhere; just find a safe pullout and enjoy the natural sound show. The temperature drops significantly once the sun disappears behind the canyon walls, so bring layers. This is perfect for people who want a nature experience without the physical challenge of night hiking. I’ve found it’s also a great spot for meditation or just clearing your head after a busy day. The canyon acoustics amplify every little sound, from the water flowing over rocks to owls calling from the trees.
7. Hike Cathedral Rock trail by moonlight
Cathedral Rock at night is not for beginners, but if you’re comfortable hiking and have a good headlamp, it’s an incredible experience. The trail is only 1.2 miles roundtrip, but it’s steep and rocky, so plan for at least an hour each way in the dark. I’ve done this hike three times at night, and the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top is amazing.
The best part is having the entire trail to yourself – during the day this place is a zoo. The moonlight on the red rocks creates these dramatic shadows and shapes that look almost alien. Safety is crucial here: bring multiple light sources, hike with others, stay on the marked trail, and don’t attempt this on cloudy or moonless nights. The final scramble to the top requires using your hands, which is trickier in the dark but totally doable with proper preparation. Once you’re up there, the night views over Sedona are worth every bit of effort. This is definitely one of those “earn your views” experiences.
8. Taste wine on the Verde Valley Wine Trail
The Verde Valley Wine Trail includes several wineries that stay open for evening tastings, and it’s one of Sedona’s best-kept secrets. Page Springs Cellars and Alcantara Vineyards both offer evening hours and have live music on weekends. I love starting around 4pm and hitting 2-3 wineries as the sun sets over the valley.
The wine quality here is surprisingly good – this isn’t just tourist wine, it’s legitimate stuff that wins awards. Most tastings run $10-15 and you get to keep the glass. The atmosphere is super relaxed, and you’ll meet a mix of locals and visitors who actually know wine. The drive between wineries takes you through some beautiful countryside that looks amazing in the evening light. Page Springs has this great outdoor patio where you can watch the sunset while tasting their reds. Some wineries offer food trucks or small plates to pair with the wine. It’s a completely different vibe from Sedona’s more touristy attractions and gives you a taste of what locals actually do for fun.
9. Join a UFO and vortex tour
Sedona has several UFO tour companies, and while it sounds cheesy, they’re actually pretty entertaining if you go in with the right attitude. Sedona UFO Tours charges around $80-125 per person for 90-minute tours using military-grade night vision goggles. I was skeptical but ended up having a blast looking at satellites, planets, and yes, some things we couldn’t identify.
The guides are passionate about what they do and know a ton about astronomy. You’ll learn to spot the difference between satellites, planes, and “unexplained phenomena.” The night vision goggles alone make it worth the price – you can see thousands of stars invisible to the naked eye. Most tours meet at sunset and caravan to dark sky locations outside Sedona. Some companies guarantee sightings or offer refunds, which tells you something about how confident they are. Whether you believe in UFOs or not, it’s a unique way to experience Sedona’s incredible night sky and learn some actual astronomy along the way.
10. Hear live music at Broome & Orchard
For an upscale dinner with a side of live music and epic scenery, Broome & Orchard in Sedona hits the mark. Formerly known as Sound Bites Grill, this rebranded restaurant still offers regular evening performances and is one of the best places in town to enjoy smooth tunes with a glass of wine and a view.
Located at the Shops at Piñon Point, right near Uptown, the venue hosts live music Wednesday through Saturday nights, often between 6 and 9 PM. Expect performances by regional artists like Patrick Ki, whose mix of smooth jazz, pop, and Latin guitar pairs perfectly with the sunset backdrop.
The space blends a modern American supper club vibe with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large patio, both of which showcase Sedona’s iconic red rocks. Menu highlights include elevated comfort food and local wines, making this a great pick for date night or a relaxed evening with friends. Reservations are recommended, especially if you want a patio table at sunset. Check their official events page for upcoming acts. It’s stylish, soulful, and uniquely Sedona.
11. Watch dinner theater at Blazin’ M Ranch
Blazin’ M Ranch in Cottonwood is exactly what you’d expect from an Old West dinner theater, and that’s why it works. It’s about 20 minutes from Sedona, and honestly, it’s cheesy fun that both kids and adults seem to enjoy. I took my family here and we all had a good time despite my initial eye-rolling.
The experience starts at 5pm when the “frontier town” opens with activities like axe throwing, bull riding simulators, and a shooting gallery. Dinner is served at 6:30pm – BBQ chicken and ribs with all the sides, served on tin plates. The food is actually pretty good for what it is. The show starts at 7:30pm with the Blazin’ M Cowboys performing country music, cowboy poetry, and comedy for about an hour. Adult tickets are $35.95, seniors $32.95, and kids 3-12 are $19.95. They’re open Wednesday through Saturday, and I’d definitely book ahead since they do sell out. It’s touristy but in the best possible way – the kind of place that makes you remember why you came to Arizona in the first place.
12. Book a private stargazing tour with a local expert
If you want to experience Sedona’s night sky in its full, jaw-dropping glory, booking a professional stargazing tour is the move. One of the best options right now is this Private Stargazing Tour with a Local Guide, available on GetYourGuide.
This 90-minute experience is fully customized to your group and led by a local astronomer who brings powerful telescopes, laser pointers, and deep-sky knowledge to wherever you’re staying…whether it’s your vacation rental, resort, or even a nearby trailhead. Tours typically start after sunset and work best on clear nights away from city lights.
As an International Dark Sky Community, Sedona offers ideal conditions for spotting constellations, planets, star clusters, and even galaxies. Your guide provides red-light flashlights, teaches you how to read star maps, and helps you spot objects most people never notice. Prices start around $150 per group, which is actually a steal for a private, fully equipped night-sky tour. It’s peaceful, awe-inspiring, and way more immersive than solo stargazing. Pro tip: bring a jacket and your favorite warm drink, especially in cooler months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Best Things to Do in Sedona at Night:
Looking to further your knowledge on the best things to do in Sedona at night? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the best nighttime activities in Sedona.
What are the top nightlife spots in Sedona?
Sedona’s top nightlife spots include Sound Bites Grill for live music and dining, Sedona’s Evening Sky Tours for stargazing, and the Verde Valley Wine Trail for wine enthusiasts. Each offers a unique experience, from musical entertainment to celestial exploration.
Are there family-friendly activities in Sedona at night?
Yes, Sedona offers several family-friendly night activities. The Evening Sky Tours are great for families interested in astronomy, while Sedona’s Starlight Dinner Theater provides entertainment suitable for all ages. Exploring the natural beauty of places like Oak Creek Canyon at night is also a family-friendly option.
Can you find live music in Sedona at night?
Absolutely! Live music can be found at Sound Bites Grill, offering a range of genres in a vibrant atmosphere. Many local wineries on the Verde Valley Wine Trail also host live music events, providing a relaxed setting to enjoy tunes and local wines.
What unique experiences does Sedona offer at night?
Sedona offers unique experiences like stargazing tours with Sedona’s Evening Sky Tours, exploring the mysteries of the universe, and UFO & Vortex Tours for an otherworldly adventure. These activities provide a different perspective on Sedona’s natural and mystical beauty.
Is Sedona’s nightlife suitable for a romantic evening?
Sedona is perfect for romantic evenings. Enjoy a gourmet dinner and a show at the Starlight Dinner Theater, or take a peaceful stroll through Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. The serene and scenic backdrop of Sedona creates an ideal atmosphere for a romantic night out.
Is it worth going to Sedona at night?
Absolutely! Sedona at night is a unique experience worth exploring. The clear, star-filled skies are perfect for stargazing, while venues like Sound Bites Grill offer vibrant live music. For a more serene evening, the natural beauty of places like Oak Creek Canyon provides a peaceful setting. Sedona’s nighttime offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and romance, making it a must-visit.
Embrace the Night with Unforgettable Things to Do in Sedona
Dive into the vibrant night scene of Sedona and discover its unique offerings after sunset. Embracing the Arizona beauty, the clear skies are perfect for stargazing, while the local venues provide lively entertainment. You can enjoy a quiet walk in nature or immerse yourself in the local culture with music and dining.
Sedona’s nightlife has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both. From tasting local wines to listening to live music, each activity provides a different way to experience the city’s charm.
So, when you’re in Sedona, don’t miss the chance to see what the city, a unique Arizona place, has to offer after dark. It’s a great opportunity to create lasting memories and enjoy the diverse activities available in this unique destination.
