Chapel of the Holy Cross Sedona
A stunning Catholic chapel built into Sedona's red rocks, offering breathtaking views and a serene spiritual experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Chapel of the Holy Cross Sedona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Catholic chapel built into Sedona's red rocks, offering breathtaking views and a serene spiritual experience.
"The Chapel of the Holy Cross offers beautiful views and a serene atmosphere. I loved the architectural design."
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking is limited; arrive early or be prepared for a walk. Handicapped parking is available but steep .
🙏 Respect the Serenity
It's a place of worship. While photos are allowed, be mindful of those praying or seeking quiet reflection .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Marvel
Built into the red rocks
A stunning Catholic chapel seamlessly integrated into the natural red rock formations, offering breathtaking views.
Jesus Sculpture
Chapel Interior
A powerful and touching sculpture of Jesus that draws your gaze upwards, creating a profound spiritual moment.
Panoramic Red Rock Views
Chapel Entrance and surrounding areas
Experience sweeping vistas of Sedona's iconic red rocks from this unique vantage point, a photographer's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking is limited; arrive early or be prepared for a walk. Handicapped parking is available but steep.
🙏 Respect the Serenity
It's a place of worship. While photos are allowed, be mindful of those praying or seeking quiet reflection.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Sedona can be warm, especially when walking from parking. Bring water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Views
The architecture and surrounding landscape are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking is limited; arrive early or be prepared for a walk. Handicapped parking is available but steep.
🙏 Respect the Serenity
It's a place of worship. While photos are allowed, be mindful of those praying or seeking quiet reflection.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Sedona can be warm, especially when walking from parking. Bring water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Views
The architecture and surrounding landscape are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
A small gift shop is available on the lower level, offering souvenirs and religious items.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chapel of the Holy Cross for its breathtaking architecture and stunning red rock views, describing it as a peaceful and spiritually uplifting place. While parking and crowds can be challenging, the serene atmosphere and unique design make it a highly recommended stop for most.
"The Chapel of the Holy Cross offers beautiful views and a serene atmosphere. I loved the architectural design, with the chapel seemingly rising organically from the rocks and blending into the natural landscape. Inside, the space is peaceful, with simple features and a beautiful sculpture of Jesus that enhances the spiritual experience. There is ample parking available, as well as a small shop.
Whether you're religious or not, the chapel offers a quiet escape and a chance to appreciate both architecture and nature in harmony. I highly recommend visiting if you're in Sedona!"
Sheda Rah
"This place was beautiful but so difficult to navigate. There was absolutely no parking anywhere near the chapel. Be prepared to walk a lot of you plan to go. The inside of the chapel is very small, and always completely full, people take turns walking in and out, it’s very difficult to get around people. If you do attended be warned that most people are there for photos, so if you go to pray or worship, it’s going to be difficult to have time/quiet. Besides all of that the chapel was beautifully built and had a very welcoming atmosphere. The views from the top of the ramp near the entrance of the church were one of my favorite parts, though it was very warm it was nice being able to look around while we waited to inside."
Eva Fabre
"An absolute must to visit if you are in the area. The parking is difficult so definitely take your time and I would not plan anything immediately after your visit so you can be flexible. Once we found parking, we walked up the windy road to get to the actual chapel. The view was amazing. As soon as you enter the chapel, you immediately feel it is a special place. There are so many beautiful things to see and the crucifix was just so touching. It was crowded but we were able to see everything we wanted and did not feel rushed. There is a great gift shop in the lower level, which was nice to visit. Everyone we encountered was friendly and helpful. I highly recommend visiting here."
Mischa Perez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is located at 780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336.+1 It's accessible by car, but parking can be challenging. Many visitors drive and then walk up the hill to the chapel.
Currently, there is no direct public transportation service to the Chapel of the Holy Cross. It's best to drive or arrange for a taxi or rideshare service. Some tours may include a stop here.
From uptown Sedona, take SR 89A South towards Oak Creek Canyon. Turn right onto Chapel Road. The chapel will be at the end of the road. GPS is recommended for precise navigation.
While some drone footage exists,
Yes, there are several hotels and accommodations in Sedona, with many located a short drive from the Chapel of the Holy Cross, offering convenient access for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter the Chapel of the Holy Cross. It is a place of worship that welcomes visitors freely.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The last entry is at 4:45 PM, and the gates close at 4:45 PM.
There is no admission fee to enter the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Donations are appreciated to help maintain the chapel and its grounds.
Yes, the Chapel of the Holy Cross holds services, including Catholic mass and sometimes other denominations like Chaldean Catholic Mass.
There is limited handicapped parking at the bottom of the hill, but the path to the chapel is steep. Some visitors mention a driver who can assist those who have difficulty walking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the unique architecture, enjoy the serene atmosphere, take in the stunning red rock views, and reflect or pray. There's also a small gift shop.
It can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and times. Visiting on a weekday morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
It's a significant architectural landmark and a spiritual site, built into the red rocks. Many believe it's located on a Sedona vortex, known for its concentrated energy.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of worshippers. Some visitors note that it can be difficult to get clear photos due to crowds.
The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Sedona's iconic red rock formations. The location is a major draw for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or dining facilities directly at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. However, there are numerous dining options available in nearby Sedona.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the chapel to maintain its sacred atmosphere. Water is usually permissible, but check for any posted signs.
Uptown Sedona, a short drive away, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to different tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture against the red rocks is stunning. The views from the ramp near the entrance are also popular. Inside, the Jesus sculpture is a focal point.
While some drone footage has been captured,
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the red rocks and the chapel's architecture. Early mornings can also offer softer light and fewer crowds.
While generally permitted, be mindful of worshippers and avoid disruptive flash photography. The focus should remain on respecting the sacred space.
You can capture unique architectural shots, breathtaking landscape views of Sedona's red rocks, and serene interior religious imagery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the walk from the parking area, which might be a bit challenging for very young children or strollers. Consider bringing snacks and water. The gift shop on the lower level can be a fun stop for kids to find a small souvenir. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to different types of architecture and the concept of sacred spaces in a visually engaging way.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
The chapel is open to all denominations and offers a quiet space for prayer, meditation, and reflection.Attending a service, if your timing aligns, can enhance the spiritual experience.
The chapel's serene atmosphere and its integration with the natural beauty of Sedona create an environment conducive to introspection and renewal. It's a place where many find solace and a deeper connection to their faith or inner self.📸 Photographers & Architecture Enthusiasts
The massive crucifix and the way the structure blends with the natural landscape are particularly striking.Aim for golden hour light in the late afternoon for dramatic shots, or early morning for softer light and fewer crowds. Don't forget to capture both the exterior grandeur and the interior details, especially the Jesus sculpture and the framed views of the Sedona landscape.
Drone photography, if permitted, can offer breathtaking aerial perspectives.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
The design aims to create a spiritual connection between humanity, nature, and the divine.Visitors often marvel at how the chapel seems to grow organically from the buttes, with its clean lines and use of natural materials. The large windows frame the stunning Sedona scenery, making the landscape an integral part of the worship space. This architectural brilliance has earned it numerous accolades and made it a must-see landmark for those interested in design and spirituality.
Many believe the chapel is situated on one of Sedona's famous energy vortexes. These sites are thought to have concentrated spiritual and healing energies, drawing visitors seeking meditation, prayer, and a deeper connection to themselves and the universe.
Whether you're religious or not, the chapel offers a profound sense of peace and awe.Experiencing the Serenity
Travelers often describe feeling a sense of calm and renewal upon visiting. The chapel welcomes all denominations, fostering an inclusive environment for prayer and meditation.
To best experience this serenity, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings. Arriving early can help you avoid the largest crowds and allow for a more personal and reflective visit. Taking a moment to simply sit, observe, and absorb the atmosphere can be a deeply rewarding part of your Sedona journey.
Photography Tips
The interplay of light and shadow on the red rocks throughout the day creates dynamic photographic opportunities.When inside, focus on the powerful Jesus sculpture and the way the natural light streams through the windows. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful distance when taking photos. Early morning or late afternoon light can provide a softer, more ethereal glow, perfect for capturing the chapel's spiritual ambiance.
For exterior shots, experiment with different angles to showcase the chapel's integration with the landscape. Drone photography, if permitted and done responsibly, can offer unparalleled aerial perspectives of this architectural marvel.
Remember to check local regulations and be aware of any restrictions before flying a drone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit