Sunset Park

Sunset Park may be the most visually stunning city park in the American Southwest. Located in the heart of Sedona, this free municipal park is backed by towering red sandstone formations that glow orange and crimson as the sun drops each evening — creating a backdrop that makes even routine playground time feel extraordinary.

For families visiting Sedona, Sunset Park is a must-stop. It's centrally located near Uptown Sedona, easily walkable from the main restaurant strip, and offers a combination of playground facilities, grass space, and open-air seating with unobstructed views of the iconic Sedona red rocks. The park is dog-friendly, well-maintained, and laid out in a way that makes it easy to keep track of children while also relaxing as a parent.

The playground equipment is suitable for a range of ages, and there is a splash pad area for hot summer days — a lifesaver in Sedona's desert heat. Tennis courts and a basketball court give older kids and teens something to do while younger siblings play. The broad grassy areas are perfect for picnics.

Evening visits are particularly special. As the sun drops below the western ridge, the red rock formations behind the park transition through shades of orange, pink, and deep red before darkening. This natural light show is something that children genuinely remember, and it costs nothing. Plan to arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset and find a spot on the grass for the full experience.

The park is open from 7am to 7:30pm daily. It's within easy walking distance of Uptown Sedona, which means families can pair a park visit with dinner or ice cream at one of the many family-friendly restaurants along AZ-89A. Bring plenty of water — Sedona's elevation (4,500 feet) and sun intensity dehydrate faster than families from lower elevations typically expect.