A long layover in Sedona is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Sedona Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside SDX
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SDX:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Sedona, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Sedona, two standouts are:
- Chapel of the Holy Cross — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Sedona.
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside SDX — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Sedona Airport Scenic Overlook
- Sedona Airport Mesa Trails
Best Bites Near SDX
- In the city: Elote Cafe and The Hudson are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sedona.
- At the airport: Mesa Grill Sedona and Sedona Airport Grab-and-Go will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Sedona from the Airport
From SDX, the local transport gets you to Sedona in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Sedona:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at SDX aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Sedona itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at SDX, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Sedona itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Need a Nap? Options at SDX
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SDX, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sedona doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from SDX, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.