Flying In

The best way for travelers to reach Sedona from out of state is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Here’s why and how to make the journey smoother:

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

Location: About 115 miles from Sedona.

Driving Time to Sedona: Approximately 2 hours.

Airlines & Flights: PHX is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., served by major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United, and many international carriers. It offers numerous direct flights from major U.S. cities, making it the most convenient option for most travelers.

Facilities: PHX has multiple terminals, a Sky Train system for easy transfers, and car rental agencies right at the airport. Amenities include restaurants, shops, and lounges if you need a rest before your trip to Sedona.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)

Location: 40 miles from Sedona.

Driving Time to Sedona: Approximately 45 minutes.

Airlines & Flights: A smaller regional airport primarily served by American Airlines and United Airlines, with direct flights from Phoenix, Dallas, and Denver. FLG is a great option for travelers who prefer a shorter drive to Sedona, but flight options are much more limited, so most travelers fly into Phoenix.

Facilities: Flagstaff Pulliam is a small airport with basic amenities like rental car services (Hertz, Budget, Enterprise), but fewer flights and facilities compared to Phoenix.

Getting to Sedona from Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)

Once you land in Phoenix, there are several ways to travel to Sedona. Each option varies in terms of flexibility, convenience, and cost:

1. Rental Car (Best Option for Flexibility)

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Sedona and surrounding areas like Oak Creek Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and Jerome at your own pace.

Rental Car Agencies: Phoenix Sky Harbor offers a wide range of rental car companies, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Alamo. A free shuttle will take you from the terminals to the Rental Car Center.

Driving Route: From PHX, take Interstate 10 (I-10) to Interstate 17 North (I-17 N) toward Flagstaff. The drive takes about 2 hours and is relatively straightforward, with scenic desert views along the way. You’ll pass through beautiful landscapes before reaching the iconic red rocks of Sedona.

Tip: Stop in Montezuma Castle National Monument (about 1.5 hours into your drive) to explore ancient cliff dwellings.

Cost: Rental prices vary, but expect to pay around $40–$80 per day for a standard vehicle. Sedona’s attractions are spread out, so having your own vehicle makes it easier to explore.

2. Shuttle Service (Convenient if You Don’t Want to Drive)

Shuttle services are a convenient option if you’d rather sit back and relax on the way to Sedona. Here are a couple of reliable shuttle providers:

Groome Transportation: This popular shuttle service offers regular trips between Phoenix Sky Harbor and Sedona. Shuttles run roughly every hour, and the trip takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

Cost: Approximately $60–$70 one-way per person.

Pickup: Groome has convenient pickup points right outside the terminal at Phoenix Sky Harbor.

Drop-Off: Shuttles drop off passengers at several stops in Sedona, including local hotels.

Sedona Shuttle: Another option for direct service from Phoenix to Sedona, offering similar routes and costs.

Tip: If you take a shuttle, you may need to use Sedona’s local transportation (taxis or Uber) to explore the area once you arrive.

3. Private Car or Rideshare (Most Comfortable, but Expensive)

For a more luxurious or direct trip, you can book a private car service or use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft.

Uber/Lyft: Rideshare services are available directly from the airport, though it’s more costly for such a long distance. Expect to pay between $200–$300 for an Uber or Lyft ride from Phoenix to Sedona.

Private Car Service: You can also pre-book a luxury sedan, SUV, or limo through private car services, such as Sedona Phoenix Shuttle or AZ Car Service. This is a good option for those seeking comfort, privacy, and direct drop-off at your Sedona accommodation.

Cost: Approximately $300–$400, depending on the vehicle and service.

4. Flying into Flagstaff (FLG)

For those who prefer a shorter drive, flying into Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is an option, but note that it offers fewer flights and may require connecting through Phoenix or another hub. Once in Flagstaff, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Sedona:

Drive: A quick 45-minute drive via AZ-89A South brings you through the beautiful Oak Creek Canyon and right into Sedona.

Shuttle: Groome Transportation also offers shuttles between Flagstaff and Sedona for around $25–$35 one-way.

Alternative Transport Once in Sedona

If you choose not to rent a car, you can still explore Sedona through various transportation options:

Sedona Trolley: A fun and affordable way to see the main sights of Sedona, including Uptown, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and more.

Sedona Trailhead Shuttles: These free shuttles run on weekends to popular trailheads to help reduce parking issues and give you easy access to the hiking trails.

Taxis and Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft operate within Sedona, though availability may be limited during busy tourist seasons.

Key Tips for Travelers

Book Car Rentals and Shuttles Early: Sedona is a popular destination, and car rentals and shuttle services can book up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and fall). Make sure to reserve in advance.

Check for Road Conditions: Interstate 17 can experience congestion or closures, particularly in winter or due to construction. Check road conditions before you start your drive.

Bring Snacks and Water: There are few rest stops on the drive from Phoenix to Sedona, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks, water, and anything you might need during the journey.

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