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Flagstaff   Travel Guide

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16 Best Things To Do in Flagstaff

Updated Apr. 8, 2022

Many of the best things to do in Flagstaff occur outdoors. From exploring the dwellings of Indigenous peoples at several state parks and national monuments to hiking and skiing the nearby mountains – or simply relaxing alfresco with a craft beer at

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Walnut Canyon National Monument Walnut Canyon National Monument

The 3,600-acre Walnut Canyon National Monument was established in 1915 by President Woodrow Wilson to protect the ancient dwellings carved into the area's cliffs. Archaeologists believe that ancient people lived in the cliffs thousands of years ago, and today, visitors can see these dwellings while hiking the monument's mile-long Island Trail. Other options for experiencing the park include the 30-minute round-trip Rim Trail, which offers visitors stunning canyon overlooks.

Many recent travelers were surprised at how much the relatively small park offers. For instance, recent visitors couldn't say enough about the Island Trail, which winds past the canyon homes where ancient people lived for hundreds of years. However, some also commented that the hike up and down the Island Trail's more than 200 steps was pretty strenuous, especially given Flagstaff's high elevation. Reviewers also suggest stopping to read the informational plaques that are stationed along the trail. Not only will you learn more about the people who once called this area home, but you'll also be forced to stop and take a break.

Lowell Observatory Lowell Observatory

At the Lowell Observatory, visitors can conjure their inner astronomer by peering through world-class telescopes and sitting in on lectures on topics like black holes and the history of Pluto. This observatory was founded in 1894 by the Harvard-graduated mathematician Percival Lowell. Throughout the years, the observatory has been credited with making a handful of important findings. In fact, researchers at the observatory were the first to discover Pluto. Today, the observatory is home to a variety of telescopes, as well as artifacts like Lowell's first telescope, classic scientific books and instruments built by the observatory's scientists for measuring the physical characteristics of celestial bodies.

Many travelers recommend visiting Lowell Observatory at night to get the most out of the experience, since that's when the stars are at their highest relief. Visitors also say the presentations put on by the observatory's knowledgeable staff are not to be missed.

Wupatki National Monument Wupatki National Monument

Established in 1924, the Wupatki National Monument – part of a collective of Flagstaff Area National Monuments, including Sunset Crater Volcano and Walnut Canyon – is a nature and culture preserve. The ancestors of today's pueblo communities once inhabited the area (during the 1100s), leaving behind their pueblos, or villages, when they moved on. Hopi, Zuni, Navajo and possibly other tribes pass on stories about Wupatki. Members of several Hopi clans return periodically. Travelers can hike through the park's red rocks, pausing at the village ruins along the way and learning about the day-to-day lives of the people who once called Wupatki home.

Travelers recommend stopping by the visitor center to pick up information on the park and the original inhabitants before heading out on your walking tour. Travelers also recommend bringing plenty of water no matter what time of year you're visiting. 

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Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Around 900 years ago, a volcano – which has come to be called Sunset Crater – erupted and transformed the encircling area. Geologic features like cinders, lava rock and lava flow compose this almost otherworldly topography, which is punctuated by ponderosa pines. Some of the more popular ways to experience the park include hiking the 1-mile Lava Flow Trail or climbing up to the Cinder Hills Overlook. Keep in mind that backcountry hiking is forbidden for preservation purposes.

Visitors use words like "dramatic" and "incredible" to describe the experience of walking around on lava rocks and cinders. Some wished that they could get even closer to the crater.

Flagstaff Extreme Flagstaff Extreme

Flagstaff Extreme is an adventurous obstacle course in which participants ages 7 and older can test their limits on challenges like zip lines, rope swings, scrambling walls and wobbly bridges, among dozens of other features, many of which are located at tree level. Each course starts out with a 30-minute safety and training session.  

Travelers highly recommend spending a few hours on the challenging courses at Flagstaff Extreme, noting that they were especially impressed by the staff's attention to safety. Though you'll be tackling the course on your own, reviewers say instructors are on the ground to help you navigate the course and provide assistance should you wish to stop. Visitors also suggested bringing water bottles that can clip to a harness, as well as sturdy shoes and workout gloves to protect your hands.

Lava River Cave Lava River Cave free

Approximately 700,000 years ago when molten rock erupted from a vent in nearby Hart Prairie, the mile-long Lava River Cave was formed. Today, visitors can explore the cave's cool, dark expanse by making a trek to the Coconino National Forest. The cave is open year-round, but roads may be closed in winter, making it temporarily inaccessible. Visitors will want to bring multiple light sources, warm layers and sturdy shoes. Lava River Cave is chilly and slippery even in the summer.

Recent visitors were awe-struck by the experience of hiking a tube cave. Although some experienced difficulty accessing the roads – in winter, check the website for the area's operating status before leaving – all found the trek worthwhile. It is essential to come with sufficient light that can be used hands-free (such as a headlamp).

Coconino National Forest Coconino National Forest free

One of the most diverse national forests in America, the landscapes in the Coconino National Forest range from Sedona ’s famous Red Rocks to alpine tundra. The 1.8 million-acre forest also boasts ancient volcanic peaks and Ponderosa pine forests. Popular activities include hiking, swimming, fishing, bicycling, climbing, horse riding and winter sports. Several national monuments are located within the forest, such as the Sunset Crater National Monument , and top attractions, such as the Lava River Cave and the Arizona Snowbowl .

Past visitors highlight the diverse gorgeous landscapes. There are many scenic drives for those with limited time or less desire to be outdoors. One of the most popular is the Volcanoes and Ruins Loop Scenic Drive, which starts about 15 miles northeast of Flagstaff. In addition to Native American ruins, the route passes through the active portion of the San Francisco volcano field surrounding Flagstaff. For the adventurous, Coconino National Forest could be a complete trip on its own (there are campgrounds and cabin rentals within the forest), while urban travelers will enjoy taking a breath of fresh air.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

In 1904, brothers Michael and Timothy Riordan, members of a prominent Arizona family, commissioned two nearly identical mansions at the summit of Flagstaff's Kinlichi Knoll. Architect Charles Frederick Whittlesey, who is also credited with designing the Grand Canyon 's El Tovar Hotel , designed the two homes, which are actually connected by a rendezvous room. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the 13,000-square-foot space to learn about the Riordan (pronounced Rear-don ) family and the history of the property.

Though past visitors said this wasn't a must-see, they called it a great rainy-day activity. Recent travelers enjoyed learning about the architecture of the more than 100-year-old mansions and the history of the Riordan family, who is credited with developing Flagstaff at the turn of the century. Along with the guided tour of the mansions, recent visitors also recommend taking advantage of a self-guided tour of the grounds.

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Historic Downtown and Railroad District Historic Downtown and Railroad District free

Built along the railroad track – and what would become Route 66 – the Historic Downtown and Railroad District is a pedestrian-friendly area filled with historic 1900s-era buildings that have been converted to shops, restaurants, galleries, breweries and other watering holes. The district also plays hosts to regular events like a seasonal farmers market, a monthly art walk, free movie nights and more.

Recent visitors heartily recommended sauntering around Flagstaff's Historic Downtown and Railroad District, citing friendly locals, open-air music and countless places to eat, drink and shop. Others also enjoyed the historical signposts, buildings and railroad station. Still, some complained that the college students made the area a bit too lively at night, while others complained of limited parking options.

Arizona Snowbowl Arizona Snowbowl

Nestled in the San Francisco Peaks at 9,500 feet, the Arizona Snowbowl is one of the state's best spots for skiing and snowboarding. The Snowbowl offers three different areas for a variety of skill levels: the Round Up Rail Park, the Southern Belle intermediate parks and the Sunset Terrain Park, which is best suited for advance skiers. The Snowbowl also welcomes visitors to its slopes in the summer for hiking and a scenic chairlift ride that travels up to 11,500 feet. 

Travelers who visited in the fall highly recommended adding the Snowbowl to your itinerary, describing the fall colors as spectacular from the top of the gondola. Meanwhile, winter downhill skiers said the slopes were nicely manicured and provided diverse options for both novice and experienced powder hounds. However, a few reviewers were disappointed with the mediocre customer service.

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Meteor Crater was created more than 50,000 years ago by a massive meteor strike near Winslow, Arizona. Visitors can experience the 550-foot-deep and nearly mile-wide cavity from an air-conditioned viewing area, outdoor observation deck, self-guided trail or by guided tour of its rim. Other activities at this popular attraction include the Discovery Center and Space Museum, a 4D theater and an Apollo 11 training space capsule. The center and museum feature interactive exhibits that explore the science and history of meteorite impacts around the world.

Recent travelers were awe-struck by the crater. The mix of child- and adult-friendly activities at the Barringer Museum was frequently praised. Keep in mind that high winds occasionally cancel the popular mile-long guided rim tour.

Montezuma Castle National Monument Montezuma Castle National Monument

The third national monument dedicated to preserving Native American culture, Montezuma Castle was built by the Sinagua people over the course of 300 years. Whether you call it a palace or a high-rise apartment, the dwelling was used a shelter during flood seasons, according to historians. By the mid-15th century, the Sinagua vacated the structure, which today is part of a sycamore grove that provides a critical habitat for native plants and animals.

Visitors are impressed by the cliff face, which can be viewed only from a distance after an easy half-mile walk. On-site signage provides information about the Sinagua's history and engineering achievements. The nearby visitor center offers more information, as well as archaeological finds.

Museum of Northern Arizona Museum of Northern Arizona

The Museum of Northern Arizona is an homage to the culture and nature of Northern Arizona's Colorado Plateau. Founded in 1928, the museum has permanent exhibits that range from Native American contemporary art to a gallery that delves into the geologic features of the 130,000 square miles that form the Colorado Plateau. A handful of temporary exhibits also pass through the museum.

Travelers say that the museum packs in a lot of exhibits and rich information for such a small space. Some visitors suggest visiting this museum before heading to the cache of national monuments, such as the Wupatki National Monument or even the Grand Canyon , since it gives such an expansive history of the area's Indigenous people. Others warn that the museum's main focus is on the Native American tribes of the region and less on the geology of Northern Arizona. Some reviewers also said this may not be suitable for young children as there are no exhibits specifically designed to engage kids.

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Bearizona Wildlife Park Bearizona Wildlife Park

Bison and wolves and bears, oh my! While the star attraction is in Bearizona Wildlife Park’s name, visitors to the safari park may see a wide variety of North American animals along with black and grizzly bears. Travelers can drive through a Ponderosa pine forest, walk through Fort Bearizona and visit a petting zoo. Lucky visitors may even spy bears in their den through the viewing glass located in a cave.

Visitors enjoyed the variety of animals, although some note the unpredictability of sightings in this naturalistic setting. The walk-thru experience was especially enjoyable. Some travelers recommend arriving in the morning in order to observe the bears at their most active and avoid crowds.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff The Arboretum at Flagstaff

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Buffalo Park Buffalo Park free

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25 Things to Do in Flagstaff

Consider this your definitive guide to Flagstaff—from stargazing to craft beer tasting, here are our favorite things to do in this mountain town.

1. Downtown Flagstaff

You can spend an entire day—and night—exploring the heart of Flagstaff . Browse the shops (bookstores, clothing boutiques, outdoor gear stores), attend an event in Heritage Square and grab a bite to eat in this walkable downtown. In the summer, purchase fresh produce at the Flagstaff Community Market .

2. Flagstaff Brewery Trail

Some of the best craft beers in Arizona are brewed in Flagstaff. Sample them on the Flagstaff Brewery Trail , collecting passport stamps at each stop to exchange for a neat souvenir—a commemorative pint glass.

3. Lowell Observatory

As an International Dark Sky City, Flagstaff's celestial sights are impressive. At Lowell Observatory , see the telescope Clyde Tombaugh used to discover Pluto and marvel at the star-studded sky on a visit to Mars Hill. On your way up, pull over for views of Flagstaff below.

4. Museum of Northern Arizona

Discover what makes the geography, geology and people of the Colorado Plateau so unique. Highlights of the Museum of Northern Arizona include a replica of a Hopi kiva and seasonal gardens featuring the diverse plants of the region.

5. Arizona Snowbowl

The state's premier destination for winter skiing and snowboarding is worth a visit in summer, too . From the gondola on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Grand Canyon. Come autumn, soak up the vibrant hues of the changing leaves.

6. Lava River Cave

Step inside a mile-long lava tube formed by a volcanic eruption roughly 700,000 years ago. The temperature maintains a cool 42 degrees Fahrenheit (6 degrees Celsius) even during the summer.

7. Wild West Traders

At this downtown Flagstaff store , shop for authentic American Indian jewelry as well as locally made dresses, jackets, purses and hats in Native-inspired patterns made from wool blankets.

8. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course

Do as the locals do—get the adrenaline pumping on an outdoor adventure. At Flagstaff Extreme , you can tackle the largest zipline course in the western United States and an above-ground ropes adventure course set among the ponderosa pines.

9. Walnut Canyon National Monument

Visitors from around the country hike to this popular park in Coconino National Forest to view the 25 cliff dwellings inhabited more than 700 years ago by the Ancestral Puebloans—forbears of the Hopi. Other ruins include a partially reconstructed pithouse and pueblo.

10. Wupatki National Monument

Take the easy, half-mile Wupatki Pueblo Trail to this 900-year-old 104-room pueblo and ball court located near the Sunset Crater Volcano (#11). Three other trails lead to even more Puebloan ruins. Most of the trails are partially accessible, and work is underway on an accessible path to the Lomaki and Box Canyon Pueblos.

11. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Apollo astronauts trained for the lunar landing at this otherworldly landscape created by a volcanic eruption 1,000 years ago. Walk among Ponderosa pines and across cinder fields with astonishing views of the crater. The more adventurous can access the Cinder Hills Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area less than 20 minutes away for some enduro-style dirt bike trails and ATV-friendly roads.

12. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

A prime example of Arts & Crafts-style architecture, the Riordan Mansion , operated by Arizona State Parks, is actually two identical homes built by the Riordan brothers in 1904 and connected by a common living space.

13. Arizona Trail

You can certainly hike, run or bike the Flagstaff portions of this 800-mile-long trail from Mexico to Utah. We suggest traversing it Old West-style: on a horse. Saddle up and ride the Arizona Trail's Equestrian Bypass; it runs from Fisher Point to Sandy Seep Trail, following the rim of Walnut Canyon (#9). Ride your own horse, or book a tour through a local stable . ( If heading out on your own, be sure to check for trail closures , as these may occur due to wildfire activity or other restrictions. )

14. The Arboretum at Flagstaff

Self-guided and docent-led tours introduce you to the indigenous plants of the Colorado Plateau and northern Arizona at this 200-acre natural exhibit . Want to immerse yourself in even more nature? Join a bird or wildflower walk.

15. Pioneer Museum

Exhibits on early life in Flagstaff—including covered wagons, farm equipment, and an iron lung—make this museum operated by the Arizona Historical Society a fascinating stop for all ages. Check their calendar before your visit as the museum frequently hosts family-friendly events and activities.

16. Flagstaff Urban Trail System

Lace up your walking shoes to hit the 56 miles of shared-use, non-motorized pathways along Flagstaff streets, through riparian areas, across meadows and beyond. Half of the paths are paved surfaces, while the remaining half is made up of a hard-packed, aggregate surface such as crushed gravel.

17. Flagstaff's Rural Trails

Countless trails cut through the thick forests surrounding Flagstaff. Explore a few. Wildflowers abound on the (slightly easy) Fatmans Loop and (moderate) Lockett Meadow trails while the strenuous Humphreys Peak Trail rewards with vistas from the highest peak in Arizona.

18. Green Book-approved Route 66

Experience the Mother Road in a new way on a self-guided tour of Flagstaff sites once listed in the "Negro Motorist Green Book," a guidebook created in the 1930s to give safe passage to Black Americans traveling the country. Motel Du Beau, Nackard Inn (today, the Grand Canyon International Youth Hostel) and Pearl Polk's Rooming House are easy to find.

19. Red Mountain

Ever wonder what it would be like to stand inside a volcanic cinder cone? You can do just that at Red Mountain , where its unusual U-shape creates a natural amphitheater filled with hoodoos.

20. Orpheum Theater

Most major shows—including nationally known acts—in Flagstaff take the stage at this historic downtown theater where live performances date back to 1911. The mural on the theater's exterior wall is also a popular photo op.

21. Hotel Monte Vista

You don't have to stay overnight to soak in the ambiance of one of Flagstaff's oldest hotels , built during the 1920s—especially if you believe the ghostly tales of the hotel being haunted. Dine at the Lotus Lounge, sip coffee at Rendezvous or listen to live music in The Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge.

22. San Francisco Peaks Loop

Beautiful any time of the year, this nearly 50-mile scenic drive pops with autumnal color when the aspens begin to change in October. (A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.) From downtown, drive northwest on US 180 for 19 miles to FR 151. Turn right on FR 151, drive about 2 miles to FR 418. Turn left. Continue 11 miles to FR 552. Turn left on FR 552 and take US 89 for almost 2 miles. Turn right on US 89 and continue 16 miles back to Flagstaff.

23. Elden Pueblo Archaeological Site

Dig into the past—literally—on Public Archeology Days as you help excavate a Sinagua site with approximately 70 rooms dating back to AD 1070. The rest of the year, the pueblo is open for self-guided tours.

24. Coconino Center for the Arts

Just one mile from downtown, the Coconino Center for the Arts celebrates creativity with contemporary art displays in its galleries and concerts and live entertainment in its 200-seat theater and performance space.

25. Self-Guided Art Tours

Be the envy of social media when you follow the Flagstaff Selfie Trail and photograph yourself at the city's best places to pose. Need more content? Follow the self-guided Public Art Tour to more than 40 murals, mosaics and installations throughout Flagstaff.

About the Author

Teresa Bitler

Teresa Bitler is an award-winning travel writer whose work has appeared in National Geographic Traveler, American Way, Wine Enthusiast, and AAA publications. She is the author of two guidebooks and a contributor to Fodors Arizona & The Grand Canyon.

• Link to author's Instagram

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Top Things to Do in Flagstaff

There are things to do in Flagstaff and certainly, some epic things to do just outside of Flagstaff like visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Depending on what you like to do, the season, and the amount of time you have to spend here, there are many fantastic things to do and experience here. But let's just do a quick Top 5 Essential Things to Do in Flagstaff summary before we dive into all the other wonderful possibilities! All of these are family-friendly and most are dog-friendly as well.

Downtown Flagstaff

Drive-up snowbowl road, lowell observatory, museum of northern arizona, buffalo park, use our customized chat gpt arizona trip planner.

If you already use Chat GPT, use our custom chatbot to help you create the best trip to fit your travel needs and expectations! Ask our chatbot for ideas on traveling with kids, the best restaurants, hotels, tours, and more!

Flagstaff Tours

Flagstaff Tours and guided experiences are a bit different when it comes to visiting an adventure mountain town. We define tours as things people can attend or can experience mostly as a spectator or student. For example, activities like helicopter rides over the Grand Canyon, jeep rides, ranger talks at national monuments and rides through wildlife parks are all considered tours. Flagstaff tours often provide a great deal of knowledge in a shorter amount of time than if you were to visit on your own. Flagstaff Tours are highly recommended if you enjoy an expert sharing his or her extensive knowledge of the place you are visiting. Flagstaff has a few tours in town, but many of these tours depart from or near Flagstaff and take you on a journey to Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and other geologically magnificent locations.

Guided Adventures

Guided experiences and adventures are different from a tour in that you will actively participate in the activity with the guidance of a professional. As you may have already noticed, Flagstaff has a thriving outdoor adventure culture and it could be considered contagious to anyone who stays here long enough. If you have the interest in going on an outdoor adventure but are not familiar with either the activity/sport or the area, hire a professional guide. People in Flagstaff are excited to share their passion for the outdoors with others, and it's always a good idea to adventure with the local professionals. From learning how to snowboard or go rock climbing in Flagstaff to white water rafting down the Grand Canyon, you'll find that guided recreation is the best way to experience new, exciting adventures in a safe and enjoyable way.

Flagstaff is a town surrounded by dozens of amazing natural attractions. The greatest of them being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon. But there are many other attractions that are exceptional in their own right and are definitely worth visiting. As the first International Dark Sky City, Flagstaff is home to the Lowell Observatory, known for the discovery Pluto. Some of the best star-gazing in the country takes place in Flagstaff and the observatory is just the place to do it. Just outside of Flagstaff are the Lava Tube Caves, Meteor Crater, and Walnut Canyon. Other attractions in the town include the Museum of Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, Riordan Mansion and as well as cultural events, festivals and art exhibitions. Check out our nearby attractions and explore beautiful Northern Arizona.

Where does one begin with this? Well, you could go on one of the most epic hikes of your life down into the chasm of the Grand Canyon. There's the San Francisco Peaks to explore with dozens of mountain biking and hiking trails some of which are historical trails or pet-friendly trails.; multiple rock climbing crags; Arizona Snowbowl ski and snowboard resort. There's camping, fishing, kayaking and paddle-boarding; farmers markets, mushroom forging and blackberry picking; music, beer, film and cultural festivals going on most spring and summer weekends; marathons and bike races; winter races by snowshoe, skis or foot; and lots of bluegrass music and IPA beer drinking. Those are just a few ideas. Check out our list of things to do outdoors, as well our Calendar of Events .

Flagstaff is one of those places where what you do with your day can greatly depend on the weather outside. For much of the country, this is common sense, but many Flagstaff visitors come from the Phoenix area where people are used to sunny and warm weather 300 days a year. With 161 sunny days a year here, it is safe to say that people visiting Flagstaff generally expect to spend a good amount of time outdoors. Whether you're in Flagstaff to cool off in the summer, while sitting on a patio drinking a beer, or you're here to go skiing, snowboarding, camping and exploring nature with family and friends, embracing being outdoors is usually part of the plan. During the later summer months, hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities are sometimes cut short or canceled due to afternoon monsoon downpours, and in the winter, this mountain town gets over 100 inches of snow, which can drive the non-skiers and snow sports enthusiasts inside. For this reason, we've decided to separate Things to Do in Flagstaff by Indoor Recreation and Outdoor Recreation.

These indoor activities will come in handy for those days when it's too rainy, snowy or cold for you to go do something outside. Or perhaps you're just not the outdoorsy type. There are several things to do indoors that can keep you entertained, dry, warm and protected from the elements.

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Grand Canyon Railway - Williams, AZ

Central Departure Location | Custom Options Available | Discounts Available | Family-Friendly | Free Parking | Packages Available | Reservations Required | Upgrades available

Bearizona Wildlife Park - Williams, AZ

Discounts Available | Family-Friendly | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Pet-Friendly | ADA Accessible | Self Guided

Fun Flagstaff History Segway Tour

Flagstaff is best known as the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks mountain range and the Grand Canyon, but it’s worth spending some time exploring the historic town too. On this tour, discover Flagstaff’s small-town charms on a guided tour and choose from a variety of options. Join a walking tour and enjoy extra time to browse the shops and take photos; explore further on a leisurely bike tour; or zip between the sights on a Segway.

• Explore Flagstaff by bike, Segway, or on foot
• Plenty of stops to admire the sights and take photos
• Receive tips on what to see and do in Flagstaff from a local guide
• Choice of tour departure times throughout the day

Downtown | Family-Friendly

Full-Day Inner Canyon River Tour to the Bottom of Grand Canyon

Spend a day exploring the Grand Canyon's Inner Gorge on a full-day excursion from Flagstaff—ideal for travelers of all ages and physical conditions. With this tour, save time searching for parking or waiting in the visitor center’s long lines, and journey 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) to the bottom of the canyon in an air-conditioned, off-road vehicle. This leaves just enough time for lunch at the river’s edge.

• Explore the Inner Canyon in air-conditioned comfort with a guide
• Skip the crowds at the Grand Canyon’s parking lots and the lines at the visitor center
• Ideal for travelers of all ages and physical conditions
• Round-trip transport from Flagstaff and Williams hotels included

Family-Friendly | Hotel Pick-ups | Lunch

Riordan Mansion State Park

The Arboretum

Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Pet-Friendly | Family-Friendly | Educational

Pioneer Museum

Haunted Downtown Flagstaff Segway Tour

Explore the streets of downtown Flagstaff—on foot, by bike, or via Segway—during this family-friendly sightseeing excursion, a great choice for first-time visitors. Hear stories of spooky ghost sightings and Wild West history, and learn fun facts about the city. A headset is provided so you don’t miss a word your guide says. Plus, choose from multiple times to easily fit this tour into your schedule.

• Discover the haunted history of Flagstaff, Arizona
• Opt to explore the local streets on foot, by bike, or via Segway
• Headset provided, so you can hear your guide clearly
• Choose from multiple times to best suit your schedule

Family-Friendly | Downtown

Hopi Cultural and Archaeological Day Trip from Flagstaff

Family-Friendly | Lunch

Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour

Once a part of the Wild Wild West, Flagstaff has a rich history of railroad expansion which brought about a number of colorful characters to the region. Discover the history of this desert city on a guided tour of downtown and learn about the city’s rapid growth during the 1800s. Listen to ghostly tales of past residents as you follow your guide to several haunted locations.

• Hunt for ghosts as you explore downtown Flagstaff
• Listen to eerie tales of colorful western characters
• A central meeting point makes for a seamless experience
• A small group means more attention from your guide

Rock Climbing & Indoor Bouldering Gym

Family-Friendly | Self Guided | Professionally Guided | Groups/Meetings

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MORE THINGS TO DO IN FLAGSTAFF

More cool things to do in flagstaff.

Peer Into the Universe at Lowell Observatory

Explore lava tube cave.

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Reconnect with Nature

THINGS TO DO

Nestled in the world's largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff offers visitors seemingly endless things to do. Whether it be outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a tranquil escape from the every day, this small mountain town has it all. Your elevated journey begins here.

Outdoor Activities

Flagstaff, a captivating city nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, has established itself as a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year with evergreen cool, clean mountain air that rejuvenates the soul. This remarkable destination offers a plethora of beloved activities that cater to the adventurous spirit of each visitor. Immerse yourself in the thrill of hiking , where every step unveils new wonders, or embark on exhilarating mountain biking trails that wind through nature's playground. Challenge your skills at disc golf amidst the picturesque surroundings or let the serenity of camping under a star-studded sky transport you to a place of tranquility. For those who seek aquatic adventures, Flagstaff's shimmering lakes and waterways beckon you to embark on boating expeditions that blend serenity and excitement. And let’s not forget the sheer adrenaline rush of rock climbing , where the rugged cliffs become both a challenge and a canvas for your ascent. If you think you’ve peaked, we’ve got the outdoor spaces to wow and win your affection all over again. Situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,135 m), Flagstaff transforms into a wonderland that attracts countless skiers and snowboarders every winter . The majestic slopes and icy peaks become playgrounds, inviting enthusiasts of all skill levels to carve their own paths. Families are able to revel in the joy of nearby snow play , building snowmen, snow tubing, and engaging in friendly snowball fights. The winter months in Flagstaff offer an enchanting experience, where the beauty of the snow-capped mountains compliments the warmth of shared laughter and cherished memories. And don’t forget to stop downtown for a freshly ground cup of coffee or sweet hot cocoa to top off your winter wonderland experience.

Parks & Monuments

During your stay in Flagstaff, allow this captivating city to serve as your home base, inviting you to embark on expeditions that explore some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Merely 81 miles away lies the awe-inspiring wonder of the Grand Canyon , beckoning you to witness its vastness firsthand. The city's proximity to Walnut Canyon National Monument , Wupatki National Monument , Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument , and numerous other national parks and monuments further enhances the treasure trove of natural wonders awaiting your exploration. From ancient archaeological sites to breathtaking volcanic landscapes, each destination offers a glimpse into the remarkable tapestry of Arizona's diverse natural heritage.

History & Culture

History buffs will find their hearts aflutter with nostalgia as they explore the remnants of Route 66 , tracing the footsteps of a bygone era. Museums and attractions dedicated to Flagstaff's Native American culture and the vibrant legacy of the Old West provide a glimpse into the captivating stories that shaped this land. Those who revel in the vibrancy of urban life will be delighted by the abundance of locally-owned shops , delightful restaurants offering tantalizing flavors, and captivating galleries that adorn the historic downtown area. 

Whatever the contents of your suitcase may be, whether it holds hiking boots and trekking gear or comfortable loafers and the latest novel, Flagstaff ensures that you will find your sense of belonging. Let Flagstaff welcome you, as you uncover the depths of its beauty and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Can't Miss Activities

Things to Do in Flagstaff

Flagstaff E-Bike Tours

14 E Birch Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

14 E Birch Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Absolute Bikes

202 E. Route 66 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

202 E. Route 66 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

All-Star Grand Canyon Tours

2420 N. 3rd St., Suite D Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

2420 N. 3rd St., Suite D Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

Alpine Pedaler

7 S Mikes Pike Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

7 S Mikes Pike Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Angel's Gate Tours

2700 S. Woodlands Village Blvd., #300-424 Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

2700 S. Woodlands Village Blvd., #300-424 Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

The Aquaplex

1702 N 4th St Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

1702 N 4th St Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

The Arboretum at Flagstaff

4001 S. Woody Mountain Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86005 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

4001 S. Woody Mountain Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86005

Arizona Game & Fish Department - Region II

3500 S. Lake Mary Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

3500 S. Lake Mary Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Arizona Game & Fish Department (Flagstaff Area Lakes)

Arizona Nordic Village

16848 U.S. 180 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

16848 U.S. 180 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Arizona Snowbowl

9300 N. Snowbowl Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

9300 N. Snowbowl Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Arizona Snowbowl Disc Golf Course

Aspen Place at the Sawmill

Corner of Butler Ave. and Lone Tree Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

Corner of Butler Ave. and Lone Tree Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

AZ Segway Tours

19 W Aspen Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

19 W Aspen Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Bearizona Wildlife Park

I-40 Exit 165, 1500 E. Route 66 Williams, Arizona 86046 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

I-40 Exit 165, 1500 E. Route 66 Williams, Arizona 86046

Canyon Country Grand Canyon Tours

1016 W. University Avenue, Suite 220 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

1016 W. University Avenue, Suite 220 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

3 miles east of Highway 191 on Route 7 Chinle, Arizona 86503 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

3 miles east of Highway 191 on Route 7 Chinle, Arizona 86503

Coconino Center for the Arts

2300 N. Fort Valley Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

2300 N. Fort Valley Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Coconino County Parks and Recreation

2446 Fort Tuthill Loop Flagstaff, Arizona 86005 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

2446 Fort Tuthill Loop Flagstaff, Arizona 86005

Continental Country Club Golf Course

2380 N. Oakmont Dr. Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

2380 N. Oakmont Dr. Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

Cosmic Cycles

123 W Birch Ave, 106 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

123 W Birch Ave, 106 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Creative Spirits

605 W Riordan Road Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

605 W Riordan Road Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

675 Dead Horse Ranch Rd. Cottonwood, Arizona 86326 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

675 Dead Horse Ranch Rd. Cottonwood, Arizona 86326

Elden Pueblo Heritage Site

West side of Hwy. 89 at Townsend-Winona Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

West side of Hwy. 89 at Townsend-Winona Rd. Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

First Chair Ski/Snowboard Rental Shop

612 N. Humphreys St. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

612 N. Humphreys St. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Flag Terroir

25 miles east of Holbrook, I-40 at Exit 311 Holbrook, Arizona 86025 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

25 miles east of Holbrook, I-40 at Exit 311 Holbrook, Arizona 86025

Flagstaff Bicycle Revolution

3 S. Mikes Pike Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

3 S. Mikes Pike Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Flagstaff Brewery Trail

details   open in Google Maps

Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Flagstaff Climbing Center

205 S. San Francisco St. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

205 S. San Francisco St. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

1 Vc Dr Bellemont, Arizona 86015 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

1 Vc Dr Bellemont, Arizona 86015

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course & Adventure Ziplines

Fort Tuthill County Park, just west of I-17 at Exit 337 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

Fort Tuthill County Park, just west of I-17 at Exit 337 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Flagstaff Foot Tours

212 W Aspen Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

212 W Aspen Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Flagstaff Mall

4650 US Hwy. 89 Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

4650 US Hwy. 89 Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

Flagstaff Snow Park

Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra

113-A E. Aspen Ave. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

113-A E. Aspen Ave. Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Flagstaff Visitor Center

1 E. Route 66 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

1 E. Route 66 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

1801 W Route 66, 102 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

1801 W Route 66, 102 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Fort Verde State Historic Park

125 E. Hollaman St. Camp Verde, Arizona 86322 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

125 E. Hollaman St. Camp Verde, Arizona 86322

Freaky Foot Tours - Flagstaff

Ghost City Tours

300 W Aspen Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

300 W Aspen Ave Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Grand Canyon Adventures, LLC

400 S Malpais Lane Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

400 S Malpais Lane Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

81 miles north of Flagstaff via Hwys 180 and 64 Grand Canyon, Arizona 86023 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

81 miles north of Flagstaff via Hwys 180 and 64 Grand Canyon, Arizona 86023

Grand Canyon Railway

233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd. Williams, Arizona 86046 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd. Williams, Arizona 86046

Harkins Theater

4751 E Marketplace Dr Flagstaff, Arizona 86004 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

4751 E Marketplace Dr Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

High Country Conference Center

201 W. Butler Avenue Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 U.S. details   open in Google Maps

201 W. Butler Avenue Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Results 1 - 45 of 90

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Flagstaff, Arizona

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Known as “The City of Seven Wonders,” there truly is no other city in Arizona quite like Flagstaff. Nestled in the middle of Coconino National Forest and just a stone’s throw from the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, it’s no wonder why this place is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts!

In the summer months, you can hike the Humphreys Summit Trail to the highest point in Arizona, check out ancient Native American cliff dwellings at the Walnut Canyon National Monument, or learn about Flagstaff’s storied history on a walking tour of the old Route 66. If you’re visiting in the winter months, you’ll love gliding down the powdery slopes at the Arizona Snowbowl.

While you can easily spend your whole vacation adventuring around Flagstaff’s nearby national parks, massive craters, and otherworldly lava fields, it’s well worth taking some time to explore the bustling downtown. You’ll love sipping local craft brews along the buzzing Flagstaff Brewery Trail, dining in the globally-inspired eateries, and shopping in all of the boutiques.

With so many things to see, do, and eat, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Flagstaff for you. Stick to these fun and unique Flagstaff bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this naturally beautiful corner of Arizona!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Flagstaff, Arizona

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Flagstaff

1. take a hike to arizona’s highest point .

It’s no secret that Flagstaff is brimming with a range of opportunities for outdoor adventure, but the nearby San Francisco Peaks offers some of the best in town!

The San Francisco Peaks boast plenty of scenic trails for all levels. But if you really want to challenge yourself, you’ll definitely want to tackle Humphreys Summit Trail. This 10-mile out-and-back trail begins in the Arizona Snowbowl parking lot and takes you all the way up to the top of Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona. 

Along the way, you’ll ascend 3,343 to an elevation of 12,635 feet. The challenging trail takes about 5 to 8 hours to complete, but your efforts will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert, beautiful mesas, towering peaks, and so much more!

Humphreys Summit Trail is open year-round, but you will need to obtain a permit in the winter months. Plus, it’s always advised to check the weather conditions before your hike. Given the high elevation, snow, monsoon storms, and lightning may cause dangerous conditions that can impact your ability to reach the summit.

2. Go Stargazing at the Lowell Observatory

One of the coolest things about Flagstaff is that it was named as the world’s first-ever International Dark-Sky City in 2001! The mountain city’s lack of light pollution makes it the prime place to stargaze. If you’re an astronomy buff, paying a visit to the world-famous Lowell Observatory should be at the top of your Flagstaff bucket list. 

Be sure to check the website to see what’s going on at the observatory during your visit. There are always fascinating film screenings, lectures, classes, and workshops happening. 

No matter when you visit, you’ll have the chance to gaze at the star-speckled sky through a variety of telescopes while professionals pepper you with interesting factoids about stars, planets, galaxies, and so much more. 

No visit to the Lowell Observatory is complete without heading out to the Giovale Open Deck Observatory, where you can stargaze from the six advanced telescopes, which are all open to the public.

3. Follow the Boozy Flagstaff Brewery Trail

You may not know it, but Flagstaff is home to an impressive number of craft breweries. If you’re a craft beer connoisseur, hitting the Brewery Trail is one of the most fun things to do in Flagstaff!

Before you head out, be sure to print the free “passport” out and bring it with you to each brewery you visit. Once you collect five or more stamps, you can turn your passport into one of the Flagstaff visitor centers in exchange for an official Brewery Trail pint glass.

The Brewery Trail will lead you to nine of the city’s most popular breweries. If you don’t want to drive and prefer to walk between breweries, you can start with a Rye’d Open Spaces IPA at Dark Sky Brewing Company before strolling over to the bustling Beaver Street Brewery , Mother Road Brewing Company , and Lumberyard Brewing Company . 

If you need something to soak up all of that booze, walk over to the downtown Flagstaff Grand Canyon Brewing Company taproom. This innovative brewery has 16 beers on tap and an impressive menu of charcuterie boards, burgers, pizzas, and much more! 

While you’ll have enough stickers to cash in your passport, the Flagstaff Brewery Trail features four additional breweries if you want to keep going!

4. Visit the South Rim of the Grand Canyon

If you find yourself in Flagstaff and you’ve never been to the Grand Canyon before, now’s the perfect time! Flagstaff is an easy 90-minute drive from Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim entrance, making Flagstaff a popular jumping-off point for exploring the best attractions near the Grand Canyon’s South Rim!

You’ll definitely want to take a scenic drive along Desert View Drive, bike to the spectacular viewpoints along Hermit Road, and check out the vistas from Ooh Aah Point. You can also learn about the Grand Canyon’s geologic history from the Yavapai Museum of Geology and the Trail of Time. 

If you’ve got more than a day, avid hikers will want to tackle the 15-mile Bright Angel Trail or follow the popular South Kaibab Trail to check out the canyon views from Skeleton Point. The Grand Canyon’s South Rim attractions are just the tip of the iceberg, though, so if you’ve got more time, it’s well worth taking the time to delve deeper into this iconic national park!

Book a guided Grand Canyon tour

5. Hit the Slopes at the Arizona Snowbowl 

The Arizona Snowbowl is one of the top Flagstaff attractions if you’re planning a winter trip. This world-class ski resort is perched on the San Francisco Peaks, just 15 miles from the heart of downtown Flagstaff.

Thanks to its 11,500-foot altitude, the Arizona Snowbowl gets an average of 260 inches of snow each year. If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, you’ll love gliding down the resort’s 55 runs, which range from beginner to expert. You can also fine-tune your skills in one of the resort’s three terrain parks. 

Don’t worry if you’re not a pro. It’s possible to rent gear and take lessons, too. Or, if skiing or snowboarding just doesn’t appeal to you, you can always go tubing, ski bike riding, or just sit back and relax with a Bloody Mary or hot chocolate in one of the mountain’s slopeside eateries. 

Plus, no matter what time of year you visit, you can always take a scenic ride on the Arizona Gondola. The ride takes you to an elevation of 11,500 feet. From the top, you’ll get stunning panoramic views of the cinder cone volcanic field, the red rocks of Sedona, and so much more!

6. Learn Something New at the Museum of Northern Arizona

The Museum of Northern Arizona is one of the many must-do things in Flagstaff if you want to tap into the state’s Native American culture and natural history. The museum boasts a whopping 800,000 works and artifacts from the Colorado Plateau as well as the Grand Canyon.

Explore the museum, and you’ll find collections relating to anthropology, the fine arts, biology, geology, paleontology, and much more. Depending on when you visit, the museum houses a range of interesting temporary exhibitions and hosts the Heritage Festival and educational Rock Art and Prehistoric Food workshops.

Some past exhibitions include Liberating Landscape: Women Artists in Norther Arizona 1900-1940 , Journey to Balance: Migration and Healing in Three Hopi Murals , and Native Peoples of the Colorado Plateau , to name a few.

You’ll also be able to peruse 170 pieces of Southwestern Native American jewelry, examine the fossil footprints of creatures that roamed around Northern Arizona 240 million years ago, or check out displays of ancient and modern pottery in the Babbitt Gallery. 

7. Explore Flagstaff’s Historic Downtown

Flagstaff may not get as much love as Arizona’s better-known cities but take some time to explore the historic downtown area, and it’s pretty much impossible not to be charmed by this one-of-a-kind city. Plus, with all the year-round pop-up events, there’s always something fun going on in downtown Flagstaff!

If you happen to be in town on a Friday, you’ll definitely want to attend the First Friday ArtWalks event. On the first Friday of each month, local businesses and art galleries host special art exhibitions, live music events, family-friendly performances, and more from 6-9 pm. 

In the summer, you can catch an alfresco flick in Heritage Square during the Movies on the Square event, do downward dog at Yoga on the Lawn, or shop for farm-fresh goods at the Downtown Community Market. Plus, you can escape the hustle and bustle of downtown at one of downtown’s many green spaces, including Wheeler Park and Thorpe Park.

If that’s not enough, downtown Flagstaff is home to the city’s best restaurants, breweries, and shops. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s something to suit all tastes!

8. Go Underground in the Lava River Cave

Exploring the Lava River Cave is one of the coolest things to do in Flagstaff for adventure-seekers. Tucked away in the Coconino National Forest, this natural wonder was formed between 650,000 and 700,000 years ago from the lava flow from a nearby volcanic vent. 

The molten lava hardened around the edges and the 0.75-mile-long cave was formed from the hot lava that continued to flow through the middle of the unique formation. Fast-forward to today, and it’s now possible to visit the Lava River Cave on your own, 24/7!

The trail is rocky and uneven. Plus, you’ll find yourself clambering over rocks at times, so it’s not ideal for little kids or inexperienced hikers. 

It’s also important to note that the cave is pitch black with no light sources, so it’s recommended that you bring at least two light sources per person. You’ll also want to dress warmly because this place gets chilly – even in the scorching summer months!

9. Take a Day Trip to Sedona

Located 30 miles to the south of Flagstaff,  Sedona  is a magical desert town, well worth a visit. If it’s outdoor activities you’re after, you’ll love hiking Devil’s Bridge Trail or Cathedral Rock Trail to check out a couple of Sedona’s most famous attractions.

Or, for something a bit more offbeat, take a Vortex Jeep Tour to Sedona’s mysterious vortexes, marvel at the  Chapel of the Holy Cross , take a hot air balloon ride over the desert, or shop for local arts and crafts at the  Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village .

And once you work up an appetite, indulge in some authentic Southwestern cuisine at the  Elote Cafe  or the  Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill !

10. Marvel at Meteor Crater

Roughly 50,000 years ago, a 150-foot-wide meteorite slammed into earth, creating what is now known as Meteor Crater . One of the few meteor craters in the US and the only one in Arizona, the massive crater is a whopping 570 feet deep and 4,100 feet wide. Located 45 minutes from downtown, this rare natural attraction is easily one of the most unique things to see in Flagstaff.

You’ll want to start your visit at the Meteor Crater Visitor Center, which is located on the crater’s north rim. Here you’ll find all sorts of educational exhibits, an astronaut hall of fame, special activities, and so much more. Space geeks will love it here!

After that, you can check out the crater from a variety of scenic viewpoints. You can also embark on a self-guided hike along one of the marked trails or join one of the informative guided rim tours. Either way, it’s not possible to walk down inside the crater for preservation purposes. If you want to pick up a memento, the on-site gift shop sells everything from “Mind if I Crash Here?” alien T-shirts to kitschy mugs and posters!

11. Eat Your Way through Foodie-Centric Flagstaff

Flagstaff may be an underrated city but rest assured, this is a prime place for foodies! 

No trip to the city is complete without paying a visit to the original Diablo Burger location. This iconic burger joint slings out massive locally sourced burgers. Whichever creative concoction you choose, be sure to order a side of their famous Belgian-style frites in DB Special Sauce and wash it all down with a local craft brew.

Vegetarians and vegans will love dining at the popular Red Curry Vegan Kitchen . From samosa wontons and veggie sushi rolls to lemongrass green curry and pad thai, this place dishes out a wide range of delicious vegan Thai and Japanese dishes. 

For something fancy, try the seasonal 4-course Chef’s Tasting Menu ($70) at Shift , or for casual Southwest-style all-day breakfasts, you can’t beat the iconic MartAnne’s Breakfast Palace .

From blackened catfish po’boys at Satchmo’s to cashew ricotta topped vegan pizzas at Pizzicletta and addictive French crullers and hangover-curing breakfast burritos at Tourist Home All Day Cafe , you won’t go hungry during your trip to Flagstaff!

12. Embark on the Volcanoes & Ruins Loop Scenic Drive

If you’re interested in the geological and cultural history of the area, taking a drive on the Volcanoes and Ruins Loop Scenic Drive is one of the top things to do in Flagstaff. Nestled in the sprawling Coconino National Forest, the loop begins just 14 miles north of downtown Flagstaff and stretches for 36 scenic miles. 

Along the way, you’ll want to stop off at the 55-square-mile Wupatki National Monument , a Native American archaeological site that was inhabited from 1100 and 1250 AD. The area is now comprised of 800 pre-Columbian red sandstone pueblos, an amphitheater, and a ball court. After that, you can stretch your legs with a hike in the Strawberry Crater Wilderness and check out the area’s fascinating volcanic features and ancient ruins.

The loop also takes you to the Painted Desert Vista for a picnic lunch with incredible views, as well as the famous Sunset Crater National Monument , where you can hike along the volcano and walk through a lava field.

13. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Original Route 66

Located in downtown Flagstaff, the original stretch of Route 66 is one of the coolest things to do in Flagstaff and one of the best ways to discover the seedy and storied history of Flagstaff’s Southside Historic District. Plus, you can access the “Walk this Talk” audio tour with your phone and learn all sorts of cool facts and tidbits about the original Route 66. 

The tour starts at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. From there, the route will lead you to historic landmarks, and signs will prompt you to call a toll-free number to listen to prerecorded messages about each site. Some of the recordings are narrated by actor and Flagstaff native Ted Danson and local author Rose Houk, among others!

During your walk, you can learn all about Flagstaff’s railway history at the historic Flagstaff Depot and Santa Fe Plaza, marvel at the Mother Myth mural, and learn about the murder and mayhem at the historic Downtowner Motel in the early 1900s. Plus, don’t forget to snap a selfie at the massive Phoenix Avenue Route 66 mural before relaxing over a pint at Mother Road Brewing Company .

14. Check Out the Ancient Cliff Dwellings at Walnut Canyon National Monument

If you’re looking for unique Flagstaff activities, look no further than Walnut Canyon National Monument . Whether you’re looking for a scenic hiking trail or a way to delve into the area’s Native American roots, you’ll find it at this incredible national monument. Plus, Walnut Canyon National Monument is located 10 miles from the heart of Flagstaff, so it’s super easy to reach. 

The sheer cliff formations and limestone walls were formed by Walnut Creek roughly 60 million years ago. About 700 years ago, this area was inhabited by the Sinagua people – a group of Ancestral Puebloans – who created homes in the canyon’s sheer cliffs. Fast-forward to today, and you can still get up close and personal with these well-preserved cliff dwellings!

Just follow the 0.9-mile out-and-back Island Trail, and you’ll have the chance to check out 25 cliff dwellings that date back between 1100 and 1250 AD. If you’re interested in learning more about the unique cliff dwellings and the Sinagua people, be sure to stop off at the Walnut Canyon Visitor Center to check out the informative exhibitions and fascinating artifacts.  

15. Seek Out Flagstaff’s Impressive Street Art Murals

We’ve said this time and again, but Flagstaff is a seriously underrated city. From buzzing breweries to forward-thinking restaurants to an amazing Public Art Program, this city deserves all the love. Plus, if street art is your thing, you’ll love exploring Flagstaff!

Meander around town, and you’ll come across over 40 murals and public installations and sculptures. You can even download the free Public Art Map , which will guide you to the top works and give you information about each piece. 

If you’re short on time, you’ll definitely want to check out the Mother Myth mural – which is located near the railroad tracks and Route 66 and details the evolution of Flagstaff – as well as the massive Sound of Flight mural on the side of the historic Orpheum Theater and The Veridic Gardens of Effie Leroux in Heritage Square.

If you’ve got the time, we highly recommend walking or biking the area on a self-guided tour to find the rest of Flagstaff’s hidden murals!  

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Flagstaff. What’s your favorite thing to do in the City of Seven Wonders?

Planning a trip to Arizona? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

The San Francisco Peaks boast plenty of scenic trails for all levels. But if you really want to challenge yourself, you’ll definitely want to tackle Humphreys Summit Trail. This 10-mile out-and-back trail begins in the Arizona Snowbowl parking lot and takes you all the way up to the top of Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona.

One of the coolest things about Flagstaff is that it was named as the world’s first-ever International Dark-Sky City in 2001! The mountain city’s lack of light pollution makes it the prime place to stargaze. If you’re an astronomy buff, paying a visit to the world-famous Lowell Observatory should be at the top of your Flagstaff bucket list.

The Arizona Snowbowl is one of the top Flagstaff attractions if you’re planning a winter trip. This world-class ski resort is perched on the San Francisco Peaks, just 15 miles from the heart of downtown Flagstaff. If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, you’ll love gliding down the resort’s 55 runs, which range from beginner to expert.

If you’re interested in the geological and cultural history of the area, taking a drive on the Volcanoes and Ruins Loop Scenic Drive is one of the top things to do in Flagstaff. Nestled in the sprawling Coconino National Forest, the loop begins just 14 miles north of downtown Flagstaff and stretches for 36 scenic miles.

Located in downtown Flagstaff, the original stretch of Route 66 is one of the coolest things to do in Flagstaff and one of the best ways to discover the seedy and storied history of Flagstaff’s Southside Historic District. Plus, you can access the “Walk this Talk” audio tour with your phone and learn all sorts of cool facts and tidbits about the original Route 66.

Roughly 50,000 years ago, a 150-foot-wide meteorite slammed into earth, creating what is now known as Meteor Crater. One of the few meteor craters in the US and the only one in Arizona, the massive crater is a whopping 570 feet deep and 4,100 feet wide. Located 45 minutes from downtown, this rare natural attraction is easily one of the most unique things to see in Flagstaff.

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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35 Best & Fun Things to Do in Flagstaff (AZ)

Flagstaff is a city in Arizona, United States of America, with a population of about 72,402 as of 2019.

The city is at an elevation of 2,106 m above the ground and surrounded by deserts, mountains, and ponderosa pine forests.

Home to Humphreys Peak, Arizona’s tallest mountain, Flagstaff boasts many fun tourist attractions such as Snowbowl ski resorts, museums, observatories, forest reserves, and many more.

If you plan to visit Flagstaff for your next vacation, here are the best and fun things to do in Flagstaff, AZ.

Things to Do in Flagstaff

1. wupatki national monument.

The Wupatki National Monument is an American native archeological site located in north-central Arizona, very close to Flagstaff.

The park was created to preserve the natural and cultural resources and values of the communities.

The park centers welcome up to 318 million visitors every year from all over the world.

“The rangers are very helpful and friendly and offer a junior ranger program at the visitor centers.”

The Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.

Visit Wupatki National Monument to see some of the oldest archeological reserves in a well-preserved environment while in Flagstaff. This makes what to do in Flagstaff, AZ, for a fun exploration time.

Address: 25137 N Wupatki Lane, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, United States

2. Arizona Snowbowl

Arizona Snowbowl is a Super fun Mountain with 777 skiable acres where you can learn to ski, sky, and have fun. It is said to be one of the best Ski resorts in Arizona.

The Snowbowl is located at the San Francisco end of North Arizona and about 7 miles from Flagstaff.

Decorated with fresh snow, Snowbowl is one of the best places to enjoy winter.

Even if you are not familiar with snowboarding, Arizona Snowbowl Ski and Ride School offer some of the best and easy to understand industry-leading instruction for first-time skiers and snowboarders.

The new Gondola, high-speed skiing, and snowboarding experience at Snowbowl will amaze you.

There are lodging facilities with fireplaces, kitchen and living rooms as well as restaurants around to wine and dine if you cannot make your meal.

This makes one of the fun things to do in Flagstaff, consider an addition to your list of places to see in Flagstaff, AZ.

Address: 9300 N SnowBowl Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

3. Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory was founded in 1894 by an astronomer and a mathematician from Boston’s Lowell Family known as Percival Lowell.

Lowell Observatory is the oldest astronomical observatory in Flagstaff city and was added to the National Historic Landmark in 1965.

The dwarf planet Pluto was discovered by Clyde Tombaugh in this observatory, which makes many recognize it as one of the most important places in the world.

The observatory was established to aid the study of the solar systems and it’s evolution, as well as astronomy in general.

The observatory receives more than 100,000 visitors each year from all over the world to enjoy its guided tours.

The guided tours feature telescope viewing, multimedia shows, exhibits, and many more for visitors to enjoy.

How much would you love to see notable planets in the solar system and experience what space looks like more closely?

The Lowell Observatory is a great place to get started with your quest to understand the solar system more.

Address: 1400 W Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

4. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course (FLG X AZ)

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure is Flagstaff’s signature adventure, featuring mind-blowing obstacles crossing and zip line adventures. This is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff for a fun time.

It was initially established to provide a safe, fun, and unique blend of outdoor experiences, all in the tops of the trees.

For those who want to be challenged to their limits, overcoming fears in a supportive environment, FLG X is one of the best places to do so in Flagstaff.

FLG X creates an opportunity for friends and family reunions while leaving the feeling of a sense of accomplishment at the end.

It promotes safety, develops courage, encourages trust through effective communication amongst guests and staff, builds mutual respect, and creates environmental Consciousness amongst all her guests.

Being a unique experience and adventurous activity, FLG X is the activity of choice for tourists who visits Flagstaffs from all over the world.

While in FLG X, you will be thrilled by the beauty of the Flagstaff terrain from a great view up in the trees while enjoying a unique adventure pushing and pushing yourself beyond limits.

Enjoy hours of tree-to-tree adventure featuring obstacles, action elements, and zip lines when you enroll in the adventure course in FLG X.

The adventure Zip Lines features hours of tree-to-tree adventure in a 32 zip line for people of age 16 years and above.

To qualify for the adventure and Adventure Zip Line course, visitors must be above 12 years of age and above. In addition, they should be above to raise their palm 5’11” height while their feet are flat on the ground.

However, visitors between the ages of 12 to 15 must play in their parent’s or guardians’ company before they can be allowed to play.

Kids of age 7 to 11 years are not left out in fun, there is a dedicated Kid’s Course for kids to also challenge themselves by completing obstacle zip line, but adults must accompany them

Address: Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

5. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

The Riordan Mansion State Historic Park was originally built in the year 1904 for two Riordan families.

The mansion was designed by the famous Charles Whittlesey, who had also designed the Grand Canyon’s El Tovar Hotel.

The art and crafts style architectural edifices feature volcanic stone arches and hand-split wooding shingles, amongst other amazing features that gave the mansion an amazing look.

The historical park, located in the Kinlichi Knoll neighborhood, has 40 rooms and about 13,000 square feet of living area and servants’ quarters.

Due to the historic nature of the mansion park, it is one of the tourist attractions in Flagstaff, and you too can explore it.

Enjoy the stunning view of the mansion and its environment when you tour the home, or take a self-guided tour of the entire environment to leave a memorable experience during your vacation in Flagstaff.

Address: 409 W Riordan Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

6. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Meteor are pieces of rocks from outer space that hit the earth’s surface; at night, you can visibly see the bright lines it forms while falling.

I bet you will love to see the spot where such fall landed on the surface of the earth in one of your vacations, and we have here one of the fun things to do in Flagstaff to meet that craving.

Formally known as the Canyon Diablo, the Meteorite Crater Landmark is a meteorite impact spot that happened about 37 miles east of Flagstaff many years ago.

The impact created a massive 3,900 feet diameter spot, which is 560 feet with interesting squared-off outline features to visitors’ amusement.

The landmark Discovery Center Observation Deck features Four Lookout Points offering spectacular views of Meteor Crater and a very interesting desert landscape.

You can choose to enjoy the outdoor view through the discovery center, walk on the edge of the crater, or from the incredible view of the inside air-conditioned discovery center.

Learn about the history and Impact Science behind the incredible 500 000 years old geological impact of the natural landmark from the Meteor Crater tour guides.

The guided tour is a 45-60 minute hike and where you get to learn about the impact that had changed the earth’s surface forever.

There is also a visitors’ gift shop for you to buy your needs while in the crater spot.

Address: Interstate 40, Exit, 233, Winslow, Arizona 86047, United States

7. The Arboretum at Flagstaff

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a 200-acre arboretum that was founded by Frances McAllister in 1981, it makes one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.

The arboretum, which was the original residence of Francis McAllister, now houses more than 750 species of native and drought-tolerant adapted plants.

The arboretum also boasts of being one of the most elevated public gardens in the United States of America.

The Arboretum is home to the largest and most extensive regional collection of the Penstemon genus.

The annual Penstemon Festival is held every year in the Arboretum due to its popularity in the collection of Penstemon genus.

The Arboretum is also known as the Transition Zone Horticultural Institute dedicated to research and also serves as a tourist attraction over the years.

The Arboretum at Flagstaffs promotes understanding and conservation of plants as well as plant communities in the Colorado Plateau.

The Arboretum is a premium destination for local and international visitors who are interested in horticultural activities.

Address: 4001 S Woody Mountain Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

8. Lava River Cave

Lava River Cave is the longest lava tube in Arizona, located in the Coconino National Forest, northern Arizona.

The cave was discovered by some lumbermen in the years 1915 and is about 0.75 miles long.

The lava tube cave was created about 700,000 years ago due to a volcanic eruption of molten rocks.

Lava River Cave is freely accessible by the general public to explore the wonderful work of nature.

Visitors to the cave are advised to dress appropriately in warm clothes and sturdy shoes because the rocks are sometimes slippery due to ice and water droplets.

Inside the cave can be very dark, one mile from the closest sources of light, and as such, visitors are also advised to come with more than one source of light in case one fails.

Some people consider the Lava River Cave as a natural museum due to the stunning cave created by nature.

Lava River Cave is a great place to stop by and tour to give you and your family a memorable experience.

This makes what to do in Flagstaff for adventure seekers, do consider an add to your bucket list of fun things to do in Flagstaff, AZ.

Address: 171B Forest Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

9. Fort Tuthill County Park

Fort Tuthill County Park is an approximately 15 acres Airforce Recreation Area in Coconino County Coconino National Forest, where the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine Forest is located.

The Park is decorated by the beautiful Ponderosa Pine Forest, giving visitors access to exceptional views of the surrounding mountains.

There is exceptional and very friendly staff in the park to help you feel at home while in the park, including recommendations of eating and dining areas nearby.

The park features trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking, fairgrounds, and numerous adventure course for your enjoyment.

There is also an amazing disc golf course for golf lovers offering you a fantastic scent of the pines, in addition to the entertainment by the golf game itself.

There is accommodation with attentive services, including a laundry facility, bathhouse, tubing hill, Wi-Fi in the lobby, and the accommodation is pet friendly also.

In addition, there are horseshoes, basketball court, sand volleyball court, fire pit, pool table, bike shop, ski shop, retail shop, video rental, and meeting & event facilities to meet all your needs during the outing.

Address: 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, Arizona 86005, United States

10. North Pole Experience

North Pole Experience is one of the most loved Santa Experiences in the peaceful, beautiful, and very impressive ski/summer destination resort in Flagstaff.

Enjoy the magic of the unforgettable holiday season experience at the 400-year-old Santa workshop.

Enjoy the amazing experience in Mrs. Claus’ Bakery, Santa’s Sleigh Hanger, Elf University, and family time and photos with the famous St. Nick. Join us for an unforgettable North Pole experience inside the toy factory.

North Pole Experience has been voted by AZ Foothills Magazine in 2016, 2018, 2019 and 2020, as the best holiday experience, especially for young ones.

Normally, visitors to the North Pole Experience by taking Santa’s Magic Trolleys at the stunning Little America Hotel.

The Trolley ride will then take you through the Magic Portal to the Santa’s Massive Workshop of the North Pole destination in the middle of the forest.

Visitors also stop in Santa’s famous Toy Hall of Fame and then proceed to participate in building toys for children around the world by working side by side with Santa’s Elves.

Address: 2515 E Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, United States

11. Museum of Northern Arizona

Established in 1928, the Museum of Northern Arizona is a private and nonprofit museum where the materials and natural history specimens from the Colorado Plateau are preserved.

It was founded by the zoologist Dr. Harold S. Colton from Philadelphia and an artist Mary-Russell Ferrell Colton from Pennsylvania.

The museum inspires a sense of love and responsibility towards the beauty and diversity of the Colorado Plateau artifacts.

It is a place that supports and gives voice to the region’s diverse culture through its state-of-the-art facilities.

There is a lot to learn from their beautifully presented and inspiring educational programs exhibits.

Great collections, super creative and enthusiastic staff, and volunteers, and well stock gift shops all to give the visitors a good treat.

Address: 3101 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

12. Coconino National Forest

The Coconino National Forest is a massive 1.856-million acre forest in northern Arizona.

The forest reserve was established in 1898 with the name San Francisco Mountain National Forest Reserves.

The forest features ponderosa pine forests, deserts, flatlands, mesas, volcanic rocks, and alpine tundra.

This forest surrounds Flagstaff and Sedona and also shares borders with four other forests.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore mountains and canyons, hike through lazy creeks, and fish in small lakes.

The Cinder Hills area of the historic forest northeast of Flagstaff serves as the astronaut’s Apollo Training Field, where astronauts trains to do fieldwork on the moon.

Enjoy a hike or ride through the Jacks Canyon Trail connecting the Mogollon Rim and Munds Mountain and the scenic views of Red Rock Country.

The Red Rock Rangers District offers fee-free days during holidays and special events at the Red Rocks Pass Fee Program sites each year. Check their websites for updates on the next fee-free day.

Address: Lake Mary Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

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13. Fort Tuthill Military History Museum

Fort Tuthill Military History Museum is a museum dedicated to military history and located 3 miles south of Flagstaff, Arizona.

The museum was built in 1929 and named after General Alexander M. Tuthill.

The museum was formally a field training site for the 158th Infantry Regiment of Arizona National Guard.

When you visit the museum, you will have a feel of the Regimental Headquarters Building of the 1940s.

The Museum was created to preserve and present Arizona military history. It features exhibits from the inception of the state’s military regiment to the present.

Guided tours are provided for visitors who want to learn about all military history in the US state of Arizona.

The tours of the museums are only available on Saturdays and Sundays from 10.00 AM to 4.00 PM, and children under the age of 12 years are admitted for free.

If you wish to visit the museum any other day aside from the official opening hours, you need to contact the museum to check their availability.

This is one of the best places to visit in Flagstaff for some history time, do consider an addition to your checklist of things to do in Flagstaff, AZ.

Address: 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

14. Alpine Pedaler

Alpine Pedaler is a fleet of 3 human-powered pedal bike with two trolleys and a smaller 6 passenger’s bike owned and operated by an experience Flagstaff’s native who knows and understand the community.

Alpine features five excellent drivers, tour guides, and excellent DJ’s to make your tour a memorable one.

Each of the trolleys is equipped with a sound system, LED lights, complimentary water, cup holders, and a cooler, and you are also allowed to come with your own beer if you want to further spice your tour up.

The bikes are also known as the crab bike, is also fully equipped with a driver, a guide, a stereo, complimentary water, and an umbrella for sunny days.

The 2 hours tours allow three stops in locations determined by the visitors when they arrive at Alpine.

Each trolley is a 14 seater capacity and can carry a minimum of 7 people per tour, while the Crab has the capacity to carry 6 people with a minimum of 4 people per tour.

Address: Irish Pub, 113 East Aspen Avenue, Arizona 86001, United States

15. EagleRider Flagstaff Motorcycle Rentals & Tours

Eagle Rider is a dedicated motorcycle and design tour for men and women of all levels of experience in biking.

If you are a bike lover, you can add adventure to the fun by riding in one of the extensive fleets of major brands of bike in EagleRider.

Popular brands of bikes in their fleet include Harley-Davidson, Indian, BMW, Moto Guzzi, Royal Enfield, Triumph, Ducati, and many more.

The rides are readily available for long and short-term rental, including escorted or self-guided rides.

Eagle Rider boasts of being the world’s largest motorcycle rental and tour services.

Tour your favorite or even undiscovered locations in Flagstaff while enjoying a comfortable ride for an amazing vacation experience.

Address: 800 W Historic Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

16. Elden Pueblo Archaeological Site

Elden Pueblo Archaeological Site is a historic and ancient site of Sinagua village, which was said to have been inhabited from A.D. 1070 to 1275.

Archeological evidence such as macaw skeletons from as far south of Mexico and many others shows Elden Pueblo has been part of a major trading system.

Elden Pueblo, through its annual Public Archaeology Days, offers the general public the opportunity to participate in tours that include excavation, artifact washing, and analysis.

Visitors can also try their hand at using ancient hunting weapons during the event.

There is also the Primitive Technology Expo and the last Public Day of the year, which is part of the annual Flagstaff Festival of Science for visitors to enjoy.

The site is also open all-year-round for visitation, and visitors can get brochures for a self-guided tour on-site.

Address: US-89, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, United States

17. The Artists’ Gallery

The artists’ gallery is a fine arts and crafts cooperative dedicated to collecting and presenting diverse works of local artists in historic downtown Flagstaff.

Through the artists’ gallery, the general public is given the opportunity to view local artists’ unique works in the city.

The gallery features professional artists in painting, ceramics art, stoneware, photography, jewelry, sculpture, textile designs, stained glass, metalwork, and woodworking.

Whatever your taste in art is, you are sure to find the one you like in the Artists’ Gallery.

The gallery holds a reception for the artist of the month every first Friday of the month to celebrate the overall best artist for that month.

Visitors get the chance to tour the amazing galleries downtown, meet the artist of the month and enjoy snacks and refreshment during the first Friday art walk.

Address: 17 N San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

18. Sawmill Multicultural Art and Nature County Park

Sawmill Multicultural Art and Nature County Park is a 2 acres brownfield project, converting one of Flagstaff’s first sawmills into an art park.

Today, the park serves as a top tourist attraction, offering recreation and educational opportunities to thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Experience a magnificent transformation of an old contaminated industrial site into an aesthetics amenity.

The park is one of the 30 wildlife attraction sites within 30 miles in Flagstaff, where visitors get to view amazing wildlife in close range.

The park features a backyard habitat demonstration gardens, performance stage, and art wall for community painting and sculpture walk for visitors to enjoy.

There is also provision for visitors’ comfort, including a playground, benches, picnic tables, restrooms and drinking fountain, lawn area, and landscaped gardens & community art center.

Address: 703 E Sawmill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

19. Flagstaff E-Bike Tours

Flagstaff E-Bike Tours is owned and operated by Todd Davis, who is a professional in the recreation industry and manager of Arizona E-Bike Tours.

Have fun riding and see the beautiful outdoor areas in and around Flagstaff when you participate in the e-bike tour.

The tour will take you to see the pines, parks, and pathways while helping you learn about the Flagstaff Urban Trail System.

The tour usually lasts for 2.15 hours and covers a distance of about 10 miles to give you an unforgettable experience.

The e-bikes feature a pedal-assist feature to help you ride up to 7,000 feet elevation without having to worry about not making it up a hill.

Address: 1515 N Main Street Suite H, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, United States

20. Walnut Canyon National Monument

One of the best things to do in Flagstaff, AZ is an exploration of Walnut Canyon National Monument, this is an American National Monument that passes through 25 cliff dwelling rooms constructed by a pre-Columbian cultural group known as the Sinagua.

The National Monument is located about 10 miles southeast of downtown Flagstaff in Arizona.

The Native American Cliff Dweller was responsible for building the Walnut Canyon from 1100-1250 AD.

Walnut Canyon National Monument offers more than 100,000 people the opportunity to explore, admire and learn from history every year.

There are about 69 species of mammals, 28 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 121 species of birds in Walnut Canyon to see.

Popular animals you can see in the Walnut Canyon National Monument include cliff chipmunks, mule deer, rock squirrels, pinyon jays, elk, mountain lion, antelope, black bear, coyotes, and many more.

Address: 3 Walnut Canyon Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 6004, United States

21. Wheeler Park

Wheeler Park is a fun and beautiful park located in the popular Aspen Avenue just in Flagstaff City Hall. A visit here makes one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.

The park is beautifully adorned with acres of refreshing trees to give you an atmosphere of peace and enjoyment.

The park features lots of picnic tables and sitting benches to go round, and it is accessible most times.

You can clearly hear and see live music echoing the sound of some of America’s finest music, giving you a feel at home feeling.

The park area is decorated with stunning arts and crafts works, making the area even more welcoming.

Lots of food and drinks to wine and dine as much as you can, and the park also features free concerts every week as well as local events most times for you to enjoy.

Address: 212 W Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

22. Grand Falls, Arizona

Grand Falls is a natural waterfall system located in a very remote Nevada land area, about 30 miles northeast of Flagstaff.

Grand Falls is an incredible phenomenon and a sight to see during your next vacation in Flagstaff city. It gives you the same feeling, just like the chocolate waterfall in the movie Willy Wonka.

The fall is popularly known as the chocolate fall because of its color. History has it that the fall was formed from a volcanic runoff from the Merriam Cracker that created a lava dam.

The water in the fall comes from the snowmelt and rainfall from a popular mountain known as the White Mountain.

If you plan to visit the fall, the best time is around March and April because the fall is seasonal, and there is the best time to see the full action of the fall.

The area is very remote, and it will be best if you drive while visiting the fall. The roads are in great condition.

Hiking to the fall is less than a half-mile, and you can choose to hike down if you have the strength.

23. Thorpe Park Center

If you lodge close to the west of downtown Flagstaff, there is a cool park known as Thorpe Park to enjoy.

The park is dog friendly, and there is a playground to go around all visitors at any instant.

Aside from the regular playground, there is a basketball, racquetball, lighted tennis, and volleyball court for sports lovers to have a good time in the park.

There are beautifully paved trails providing access and also for hiking and biking and a ramada and picnic areas to provide shelter for visitors.

The park also houses northern Arizona’s premier disc golf course to enjoy.

Address: One E. Route 66, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 United State

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24. Buffalo Park

Amongst the top things to do in Flagstaff is an exploration of  Buffalo Park.

Buffalo Park is a massive 215-acre park that offers a 2-mile hiking loop trail, picnicking space, and verse wildlife to see.

One of the main features of the park is a historic bronze sculpture of a buffalo and the inscription “Buffalo Park” at the entrance, which welcomes nature lovers of all ages to the park.

The park is one of the community’s favorite parks in Arizona.

Visitors are admitted from all over the world for recreation purposes, and guided tours are also provided to guide the visitors to see the wildlife in the park and also show them around.

Address: 2400 N Gemini Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, United States

25. Pioneer Museum – Arizona Historical Society

The Arizona Historical Society was created to collect, preserve, interpret, and share the history of Arizona and the West at large for the future generation to learn from.

The Pioneer Museum is home to the Arizona Historical Society and features exhibits on the historical development of the region, including the early livestock ranching, homesteading, and lumbering, and many others.

Some of the featured exhibits include a Baldwin articulated locomotive, an iron lung, a tortilla making machine, a Santa Fe RR caboose, and many more.

Guided tours are organized for visitors with very knowledgeable tour guides to educate you on some of the exhibits and their history.

Address: 2340 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

26. Flagstaff Visitor Center

If you are new to Flagstaff, you might want to check out the Flagstaff Visitor Center to get useful travel information.

There are also a series of events hosted in the center that you can explore while in the center.

The amazing and unique gift shops will give you an amazing opportunity to get beautiful souvenirs of Flagstaff origin only.

The center provides maps, brochures, and other means of information to guide you in your stay in Flagstaff.

This makes what to do in Flagstaff for more information about the area, do consider an addition to your bucket list of things to do in Flagstaff, AZ.

Address: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

27. Bushmaster Park

The Bushmaster Park is another cool spot to relax and have fun with friends and families during vacation.

The park is characterized by mature pine trees and well-kept playgrounds for all to enjoy.

Also available in the park are tennis courts, four lighted basketball courts, a fenced park, and picnic ramadas with grills.

There is also a skate park, horseshoe pits, sand volleyball court, and an outdoor fitness area to meet the family’s needs. Bushmaster has amenities for the entire family.

The park also hosts several concerts and children’s music festivals during each summer of the year, which you can attend.

The park is well maintained to give your photograph an amazing background also.

Address: 3150 N Alta Vista Drive, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, United States

28. Peaks View County Park

The Peaks View County Park is another great place to have fun with your family and friends on your next vacation in Flagstaff.

Located in the stunning San Francisco Peaks, Peaks View County Park is an awesome park north of Flagstaff

The park features walking trails, an equestrian arena, and playgrounds, including football, basketball, and baseball pitches.

The park also offers an amazing panoramic view of San Francisco Peak. The conveniences are always super clean and easily accessible by all visitors.

They’re a very convenient picnic area and shades for relaxation by groups and families to enjoy.

Address: 8805 Koch Field Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, United States

29. Canyon Ministries

For those who want to go spiritual about during their vacation, Canyon Ministries provides daily creation-based Rim tours dedicated to upholding the scripture from the very first verse.

The ministry has been offering guided day hikes and days of river trips in the popular Grand Canyon National Park since 1997.

The tours are life-changing Christian tours offered to several people from different parts of the world.

There are very knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides to guide you both in the science and word of God in all the tours.

If you want to learn about the geology of the Canyon, including information on the plants, animals, and other amazing features, a tour with Canyon Ministries is the best way to get such information.

The highly recommended sunset tour will give you an adventure you will live to remember.

Address: 2727 W Historic Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

30. Ponderosa Trails Park

Ponderosa Trails Park is an 8 acres community leisure park located in the South Wild west.

The park is one of the coolest family relaxation sports, best for leisure classes, all kinds of programs, entertainment, and other special events.

The park has provision for the accommodation of groups of up to 30 people, and it is also handicap accessible.

It features two picnic tables under a well-kept ramada for family and group relaxation and picnic.

It also has one playground and a portable and clean restroom for visitor’s convenience. Consider an addition to your bucket list as this makes one of the best things to do in Flagstaff, AZ.

Address: 3875 S Wild West Trail, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

31. Arizona Handmade Gallery

Arizona Handmade Gallery is an amazing art gallery in downtown Flagstaff showcasing George’s glass art and some stunning artworks from some of the state’s best artists.

The gallery was created to promote the work of artists in downtown Flagstaff and Arizona at large. The type of art promoted by the gallery includes paintings, woodcuts, fiber art, glass art, ceramic art, jewelry, lithograph and intaglio prints, and many more.

Arizona Handmade Gallery is seen as an art gallery with a deeper meaning, striving to preserve the old methods of creating art and crafts.

Explore the Arizona Handmade Gallery to see the wonderful work of art been put together by amazing artists from all over the world, or even buy one for yourself.

Address: 13 N San Francisco Street Suite 100, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

32. Raymond County Park

Raymond County Park is a 12.5 acres rural themed park established in 1972 for relaxation and sports in Flagstaff.

The park features a restroom building, a ball field, two ramadas, a basketball court, and a platform where visitors can view wildlife.

The ball field has terrace seating, a climbing wall, two playgrounds, and a basketball court of high school dimension.

There is a pond very close to the watchable wildlife viewing platform and a drinking fountain for the visitors to enjoy.

There are also sparkling clean restrooms and two parking areas for visitors’ convenience.

Address: 3305 Kachina Trail, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States

33. NAU Art Museum

The North Arizona University Art Museum is an art museum located inside the north campus of North Arizona University.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore both the North University campus and the museum of art when they visit.

The University is the leading cultural institution in Northern Arizona. It engages in the acquisition and exhibitions of contemporary art for the good of the community.

The museum believes in the priceless roles art plays in creating an excellent educational experience and, as such, promotes the work of art through teaching and exhibitions.

This Northern Arizona University Art Museum exhibits fine art, including modern paintings, sculptures, and many others.

If you are intrigued by the work of art, NAU Art Museum is a good place to explore modern and contemporary art in Flagstaff.

This makes what to do in Flagstaff for a fun time, do consider an addition to your list of Flagstaff attractions to visit when you are in the area.

Address: 620 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff, Arizona 86011, United States

34. Victorian Moon Antiques & Enchantments

In the center of Flagstaff, Arizona’s historic downtown, sits Victorian Moon Antiques & Enchantments , an antique store, pharmacy, and magical haven.

This antique store has beautiful silver, china, finery, and vintage clothing; in addition to antiques and apothecaries, local artwork, unique charms and potions, and jewelry are also available.

The lovely small tea shop at the rear end of the Victorian Moon Antiques & Enchantments, where you can grab some tea and nibbles to go with it, is a genuinely fantastic addition.

Victorian Moon Antiques and Enchantments also feature lovely curiosities, vintage apparel, and candles infused with fresh herbs and spices.

A broad selection of divination tools and items, such as Tarot cards, pendulums, incense, resins, and ingredients, such as sage wands and resins, are available. The store also makes its sprays and Custom oils.

The vintage store provides gorgeous clothing, accessories, caps, goes, and shoes. In-house millinery is performed for unique creations. There is a section with bow ties and cufflinks for the guys, and the jewelry is neat.

Please do not miss the chance to have a spectacular experience when you visit Flagstaff because there is so much more to be discovered here.

Address: 13 N San Francisco St, Suite 100, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

35. Aspen Valley Golf Club

Aspen Valley’s Ponderosa Pine Forest is a private 18-hole golf course built around the recognizable Río De Flag, just east of the city center known as Aspen Valley Golf Club .

The 6,889-yard layout highlights the site’s undulating topography. It provides unrestricted views of Mount Elden, which is close by, in the foreground, and the San Francisco Peaks, which can be seen from a distance.

The golf club’s membership has prioritized creating a culture that honors golf’s traditions since it was founded in 1993. When you play on this course, you play the old fashion way.

The course is void of any frills, pomp, or circumstances; instead, it is a well-maintained, walk-friendly golf course with enough food and drink to go with each round.

If you are a fan of golf, you will enjoy playing a round or two with your loved ones or against total strangers at Aspen Valley Golf Club, the atmosphere on the course is always friendly.

Address: 1855 N Continental Dr, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA

Do you have more time to spend in Arizona?, here is a list of things to do in Yuma for a memorable exploration. Also, check out our guide on things to do in Tennessee and things to do in Missouri for a fun time

Plan a Trip to Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a great city to spend a holiday or vacation, however, for beach and water sports lovers, Flagstaff is not the best for you, but you can also enjoy the amazing swimming pool available in most hotels and relaxation spots.

Like most US states, Flagstaff can be chilly, and you might need to prepare appropriately for the different seasons.

Ensure you check updated information about your place of interest before you embark on your journey to Flagstaffs. More information is available through the center’s website.

13 Top-Rated Things to Do in Flagstaff, AZ

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Flagstaff is probably not what many people picture when they think of Arizona. Surrounded by ponderosa pines, volcanoes, and even a ski hill, this city is a far cry from the desert regions just a couple of hours away.

At an elevation of about 6,900 feet , the climate here is cool and snow-covered during much of the winter, and the area offers a full range of things to do, many of which are hard to find in other areas of Arizona.

In summer, Flagstaff is a welcome retreat from the heat of lower areas like Phoenix or Tucson, and many people come here to sightsee, hike, and enjoy the outdoors.

At any time of year, you can explore Native American archeological sites, wander through the volcanic landscape, or learn about the history of the region in some of the local museums and attractions.

For ideas on how to spend your time here, see our list of the top things to do in Flagstaff.

See also: Where to Stay in Flagstaff

1. Walnut Canyon National Monument

2. sunset crater volcano national monument, 3. wupatki national monument, 4. arizona snowbowl, 5. lowell observatory, 6. museum of northern arizona, 7. riordan mansion state historic park, 8. pioneer museum, 9. extreme adventures flagstaff, 10. historic downtown, 11. lava river cave, 12. the arboretum at flagstaff, 13. hike to red mountain, where to stay in flagstaff for sightseeing, map of things to do in flagstaff, az, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit flagstaff, explore the best places to visit near flagstaff.

Located just east of Flagstaff, Walnut Canyon National Monument is one of the area's most impressive attractions, both for culture and scenery.

Ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings line the steep canyon walls, which descend to the narrow and dry Walnut Creek at the bottom. From the Visitor Center, you can look out over the canyon and to the ruins on the far wall.

The best way to experience the monument and see the ruins is on the one-mile Island Trail , which begins directly from the Visitor Center. Stairs take you down the canyon wall about 185 feet, where you can walk below the overhanging walls and through a series of reconstructed ruins.

This is an easy hike with stairs with handrails, and it's paved the entire way. Along the way, you'll see large ponderosa pines and Douglas fir trees.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/waca/index.htm

You may not know it as you cruise along Interstate 40, but between Flagstaff and Williams, more than 600 volcanoes dot the landscape. Sunset Crater Volcano is the youngest of these, and the landscape here, which is hard to fully appreciate until you visit the monument, is spectacular.

The cinder cone itself looks like a huge black sand dune, with small grains of lava cascading down the steep hillside. Trails run along the base. Some trails are wide and paved, and others lead through natural areas.

In some areas fields of chunked lava, with no signs of life, stretch out across the landscape. You can see a collapsed lava tube that snakes its way through the field, gaze up at the cinder cone, and appreciate the pine trees and other bits of vegetation that have managed to eek out an existence in this inhospitable landscape.

If you have time for only one excursion in this area, walk the full outer rim of the Lava Flow Trail . It's only one mile, very easy, and one of the best hikes in Arizona .

Beyond Sunset Crater, along the same road, is Wupatki National Monument . Admission to the volcano also covers admission to Wupatki, and these make a perfect pairing. A scenic road joins the two, and you can loop back to Flagstaff by joining up with Highway 89 after Wupatki.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/sucr/index.htm

Wupatki National Monument covers a large area of grassland on the Colorado Plateau north of Flagstaff and is home to some fascinating and well preserved American Indian ruins.

The collection of pueblos spread over the monument offers a small glimpse into a way of life that existed and thrived here in the timefram spanning 100 years from 1100 to 1200.

The Wupatki Pueblo was in a strategic position and was the main center for trade among various cultures. The impressive structures, which in some cases stand two or more stories high, are made of stone and mud.

The numerous sites within Wupatki National Monument include the Wukoki Pueblo, Wupatki Pueblo, Lomaki Pueblo, and the Nalakihu and Citadel Pueblos.

If you are arriving from the north end of the monument, one of the first sites you will come to is the Nalakihu and Citadel Pueblos. Be sure to walk up to the Citadel Pueblo for outstanding 360-degree viewing from the top of the citadel. The landscape is different but equally impressive in every direction.

The Visitor Center is located in the middle of the monument and better suited to those arriving from the south.

Most people combine a visit to Wupatki with Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument . The entrance fee covers both places. If you have a national parks interagency pass, these are both covered.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/wupa/index.htm

Skiing at Snowbowl can be a unique skiing experience for northerners. Set on the slope of an old volcano known as the San Francisco Peaks , the top elevation of this ski area is 11,500 feet. You can find other ski resorts in Arizona , but Arizona Snowbowl is the best.

Views from the top extend out over the flat plateau below to distant cinder cones and beyond towards the Grand Canyon. Often, you are looking out over a land of grass and trees rather than fields of snow, especially in the spring.

The top of Snowbowl is for strong intermediate to advanced skiers and boarders, primarily because it's steep. However, most of the hill is designed for beginner to intermediate levels.

Winter storms can dump huge amounts of snow on the hill, sometimes measured in feet rather than inches. These storms are usually predicted well in advance, so powder hounds can plan accordingly. Outside of the storms, the hill has extensive snowmaking facilities and offers well-groomed trails.

Arizona Snowbowl has a lot of character and characters. It's not unusual to see the odd skier in costume or even playing a musical instrument as they ski down the most extreme terrain. Locals you meet on the lifts are happy to tell you a thing or two about the hill and the area.

The patio at the base of the Agassiz lift is a sublime spot to pull up an Adirondack chair, soak up the sun, and watch the skiers descend the slopes.

The resort has undertaken significant improvements in the past few years. The old Agassiz lift has been replaced by a brand new six-passenger chair and eight-passenger gondola combination. The new lift now whisks skiers to the summit in seven minutes.

In the summer, the resort operates scenic gondola rides to the peak.

Official site: https://www.snowbowl.ski/

Located right in Flagstaff, on a hill high above the main streets, the Lowell Observatory offers a unique chance to see and learn about the various celestial bodies.

Short programs on a variety of subjects are held at regular intervals throughout the day and evening. Most of these are only 30 minutes to an hour long, and it's well worth checking the program list before you stop by.

In addition to the observatory itself is the Steele Visitor Center , where you will find a multitude of interactive and interesting displays relating to the universe.

Also of note is the Putnam Collection Center , which features items from Percival Lowell's life, including his 1911 Stevens-Duryea automobile and his very first telescope.

Official site: https://lowell.edu/

The Museum of Northern Arizona, founded in 1928, has a collection with more than five million pieces related to Northern Arizona and the Colorado Plateau. Topics and collections range from Native American artifacts to fine art pieces and objects related to natural science, among others.

Five permanent exhibitions focus on the Colorado Plateau and include the Hopi Kiva Gallery, the Geology Gallery, the Babbit Gallery, and the outdoor James Golightly courtyard.

The museum also hosts special traveling exhibits and puts on special Heritage Festivals four times throughout the year. It is located just up the road from the Pioneer Museum.

Address: 3101 N Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff, Arizona

Official site: https://musnaz.org/

Slightly hidden behind some buildings and set among large pines on the campus of Northern Arizona University is the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park.

The building dates from 1904 and is an excellent example of Arts and Craft architecture. The building features log slab siding and impressive structural elements, including volcanic stones. Inside, the building has been beautifully restored with original elements and period pieces dating from the turn of the century.

The home, which can only be visited on a guided tour, has 40 rooms and is a massive 13,000 square feet. The architect that designed the Riordan Mansion, Charles Whittlesey, also designed and built the El Tovar Hotel at the Grand Canyon .

Address: 409 West Riordan Road, Flagstaff, Arizona

Official site: https://azstateparks.com/riordan-mansion/

The Pioneer Museum is easy to spot along Highway 180 due to the well-preserved steam engine and boxcars dating from 1929 out in front of the main building.

The museum is housed in a former hospital dating from 1908 and displays artifacts and other items from the early days of Flagstaff. The focus is on the development of Flagstaff from 1880 to 1960 and features information and exhibits on the logging and ranching history of the area, with rooms dedicated to each decade.

Outside the main museum building are expansive grounds showcasing Ben Doney's one room cabin, a 1915 Model T Ford, and a Fire Engine that saved nearby Riordan Mansion .

Address: 2340 N Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff, Arizona

Official site: https://arizonahistoricalsociety.org/museum/pioneer-museum/

For an afternoon of heart-pumping adventure at 15 to 60 feet above the ground, try a visit to Extreme Adventures Flagstaff. You can sign up for a course led by a qualified instructor and find your way safely through a tree top course with more than 70 obstacles.

If you'd rather just go flying around on the largest zipline course in the Western United States, that option is available as well. The ziplining is self-guided, but you will be provided with extensive safety training prior to setting off on your own.

The zipline experience here is different from some traditional parks. Here, you must climb ladders and cross bridges and you need to have a reasonable level of fitness.

Location: Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff, Arizona

Official site: http://flagstaffextreme.com/

You can still find remnants of Route 66 and a collection of historic buildings in Historic Downtown Flagstaff. Easily walkable, this approximately 12-block area is full of interesting restaurants, boutiques, and tourist shops.

Many of the neon signs and large free-standing billboards, including the towering Hotel Monte Vista and Orpheum Theater signs, have been refurbished and are lit up at night. Aspen Avenue in particular has a great collection of historic buildings.

Look for the Weatherford Hotel, Orpheum Theater, Babbitt Brothers Building, and the Hotel Monte Vista.

The Flagstaff Visitor Center is two blocks south and is housed in the old and refurbished, but still in use, train station.

You can find your inner Jules Verne as you drop into the bowels of the earth at the 700,000-year-old Lava River Cave.

The cave is one mile long and is not a prettified tourist attraction. This is a real caving adventure that you do on your own, so if you are planning to go in and down, make sure you are prepared. There is no lighting and no guide. Bring multiple light sources.

Once you climb down inside and walk a short distance, you'll see stone icicles, along with other unique rock features that give the floor the appearance of a frozen river. In some areas, the cave roof is 30 feet high and in other areas, the tube splits into two tubes that eventually rejoin.

The cave is constantly cold, around 35 to 40 F, and the rocks are sharp and slippery, so wear sturdy hiking boots. The Lava River Cave is approximately 14 miles from Flagstaff along paved and gravel roads.

Official site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55122&actid=102

Just south of town, you'll find typical high-altitude nature at its finest. Originally a working ranch, the land has been allowed to return to its natural state and is now home to over 750 different plants adapted to Flagstaff's climate.

One of the highlights of a visit are the incredible variety of beardtongue plants, also known as penstemon. These large flowering plants can grow up to 10 feet high. The peak blooming season is generally mid-July

Admission is by donation – $5.00 per human and $3.00 for dogs is recommended – a guided tour led by a knowledgeable docent is included. If you need any special plants to help spruce up your home or garden, the Arboretum holds plant sales during the main growing season.

Address: 4001 S. Woody Mountain Road, Flagstaff, Arizona

Official site: https://thearb.org/

This is a fun family outing while visiting Flagstaff. It's not often that you get to climb to the top of a 1,000-foot, 740,000-year-old cinder cone. The hike is short at 2.6 miles return, but it packs a lot of interesting stuff into a short distance.

Elevation gain is minimal but at one steep section, the park service has installed a ladder. The best part of the trail is near the end, when you'll come across interesting rock formations called hoodoos.

The trailhead is located 25 miles northwest of Flagstaff on Highway 180.

Luxury and Mid-Range Hotels:

• A longtime favorite hotel in Flagstaff, the Little America Hotel has recently undergone huge renovations, which have transformed this 1970s hotel into a modern and sophisticated lodge. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully decorated, and the lobby and common areas have been redesigned using wood and natural tones that make for inviting spaces to gather.
• Just a five-minute drive from the historic downtown area, the Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff offers large suites and luxurious common areas. They also have an indoor pool and hot tub, and welcome pets.
• A little farther out, near the Northern Arizona University, the Hilton Garden Inn is another high-end option in Flagstaff. The hotel features contemporary rooms, an indoor pool, and a restaurant.

Budget Hotels:

• The Econo Lodge Flagstaff Route 66 offers good value in a great location, with basic rooms and the option to bring your pet for an additional fee.
• If you are here for skiing , the Basecamp at Snowbowl , formerly known as the Ski Lift and Cabins, frequently offers some very good deals and is located right near the road up to Arizona Snowbowl. If you don't mind staying a short distance out of town, this can also be a good option if you are looking to save some money on accommodation.
• In the downtown area, the Highland Country Inn is another popular budget hotel, with small but clean and comfortable rooms.

Flagstaff, unlike Phoenix two hours south, is up high at an elevation of 6,909 feet. This lofty perch ensures that the summers are temperate, while the winter season can be downright cold, with snow on the ground. In the summer months, Flagstaff experiences a monsoon season that sees frequent and intense afternoon thunderstorms.

The best time to visit for skiing is in January and February, and early March, depending on the season. The best time to visit for hiking and mountain biking is from mid-May through until October. At this time, the trails are dry and clear of snow at the higher elevations. June provides the best chance to see wildflowers on the hiking trails.

Sedona : Don't miss an opportunity to see Sedona, just a short and scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon away. If you only have a half day to tour the town, have a look at our top-rated attractions in Sedona article for ideas.

With a full-day to explore, you might want to consider lacing up your boots and heading out on one or two of the best hikes in Sedona .

If you are into mountain biking, you're in luck. Sedona's mountain biking trails range from easy and scenic to absolutely epic. To enjoy a little rest and relaxation, see our guide to the best spa resorts in Arizona .

The Grand Canyon : If you have time for a day trip, don't miss a chance to see this spectacular site. In well under two hours, you can be enjoying the views and sites of the Grand Canyon or heading off on one of the hiking trails .

Arizona's Best : For inspirational ideas for traveling around the state, see our Top-Rated Attractions and Best Places to Visit in Arizona and our Best Hikes in Arizona articles. Most visitors to the state will be stopping in at, or transiting through, one of the two main cities. If so, see our features on things to do in Phoenix and Tucson .

More on Arizona

18 of the Best Things to Do in Flagstaff (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 11, 2024

Trying to find great activities and attractions in the City of Seven Wonders? Our guide to the best things to do in Flagstaff is all you need to plan the perfect trip!

If you’re dreaming of a travel destination that offers a little bit of everything, then Flagstaff, Arizona, should be at the top of your list. Nestled amid the majestic ponderosa pines of the Coconino National Forest, this charming city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.

In this post, we’re going to dive into the incredible things to do in Flagstaff, from stargazing at the Lowell Observatory to discovering the cultural wonders at the Museum of Northern Arizona. And if that’s not enough, we’ll also take you on a thrilling journey to the Arizona Snowbowl for some epic winter fun and venture to the awe-inspiring South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Flagstaff’s unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness makes it a true gem in the heart of Arizona . Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for some breathtaking scenery, Flagstaff has you covered.

So, let’s embark on this exciting journey together and discover the wonders that await in this enchanting corner of Arizona!

Read Next: Check out this post on the best things to do in Arizona !

Table of Contents

1. Hike in Coconino National Forest

2. explore walnut canyon national monument, 3. explore the grand canyon national park, 4. challenge yourself on the flagstaff extreme adventure course, 5. visit the museum of northern arizona, 6. head out on the flagstaff urban trail system, 7. visit lowell observatory, 8. ski or snowboard at arizona snowbowl, 9. stroll through historic downtown flagstaff, 10. venture into the lava river cave, 11. explore wupatki national monument, 12. follow the flagstaff brewery trail, 13. visit sunset crater volcano national monument, 14. wander the riordan mansion state historic park, 15. visit meteor crater, 16. catch a performance at the orpheum theater, 17. visit the pioneer museum, 18. take a scenic drive along the ruins loop scenic drive, luxury hotel: the little america hotel flagstaff, mid-range family accommodation: doubletree by hilton hotel flagstaff, budget hostel/hotel: super 8 by wyndham flagstaff, wrapping up, the best things to do in flagstaff.

These are 18 of our top-recommended Flagstaff activities to add to your itinerary.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Exploring Coconino National Forest, with a particular highlight being the hike up Humphreys Peak, provides travelers with a captivating outdoor adventure in Flagstaff. Rising to an elevation of 12,633 feet, Humphreys Peak stands as the highest point in Arizona and is a prominent feature of the San Francisco Peaks, a volcanic mountain range just north of Flagstaff.

The hike to the summit offers not only a physical challenge but also stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the vast Coconino National Forest, the Painted Desert to the east, and even glimpses of the Grand Canyon on clear days. The trail varies from dense forests of ponderosa pine to alpine tundra as you ascend, providing a diverse and visually captivating hiking experience.

Hikers can also enjoy the thrill of conquering Arizona’s highest peak while taking in the remarkable natural beauty that the San Francisco Peaks region has to offer.

Walnut Canyon National Monument is a captivating historical and natural treasure that beckons travelers to explore its unique landscapes and ancient cliff dwellings.

Located just east of Flagstaff, this national monument offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of indigenous peoples who once inhabited the area over 800 years ago. Visitors can follow well-maintained trails along the rim and venture down into the canyon to view the remarkably preserved Sinagua cliff dwellings, which are nestled within the narrow walls of the canyon.

These ancient homes provide a vivid testament to the resourcefulness and adaptability of the people who lived here, and the scenic beauty of Walnut Canyon itself adds to the allure of the experience.

For history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike, Walnut Canyon National Monument offers a memorable journey through time and the stunning landscapes of Northern Arizona.

Visiting the Grand Canyon is an absolute must for travelers exploring Flagstaff and the surrounding region. This iconic natural wonder, situated just a few hours away, offers an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature’s grandeur.

As one of the world’s most famous and immense canyons, the Grand Canyon’s immense size, intricate geological formations, and breathtaking vistas make it an unforgettable destination.

Whether you’re admiring its vastness from the rim’s edge, embarking on a challenging hike down into its depths, or taking a leisurely mule ride along the trails, the Grand Canyon offers a myriad of ways to experience its beauty.

The play of light and shadows on the canyon’s walls creates an ever-changing tapestry, and sunset and sunrise moments at the rim are particularly enchanting. Visiting the Grand Canyon from Flagstaff provides an opportunity to witness the sheer power of nature and leaves an indelible mark on anyone fortunate enough to behold its splendor.

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course , situated amidst the lush pine forests of Flagstaff, provides an exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping experience for adventure seekers of all levels.

This treetop adventure park offers an array of challenging courses, including suspended bridges, swinging logs, and zip lines, all designed to test your agility and courage while immersed in the natural beauty of the Coconino National Forest.

Whether you’re conquering your fear of heights or seeking an outdoor thrill, the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course promises an unforgettable day of fun and adventure, making it a must-visit attraction for those looking to push their limits and create lasting memories in the heart of Arizona’s stunning wilderness.

Read Next: See where Flagstaff sits on our list of best places to visit in Arizona !

The Museum of Northern Arizona is a captivating institution that offers a deep dive into the rich natural and cultural history of the Flagstaff region and the broader Colorado Plateau.

Located amidst the stunning landscapes of Northern Arizona, the museum features an impressive collection of exhibits, artifacts, and artworks that highlight the geological wonders, indigenous cultures, and diverse ecosystems of the area.

Visitors can explore exhibits on topics ranging from geology and paleontology to Native American art and culture, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s heritage. Additionally, the museum hosts educational programs, special events, and temporary exhibitions that further enrich the visitor’s experience.

For those seeking a deeper appreciation of the unique character of Northern Arizona, the Museum of Northern Arizona is an educational and enriching destination in the heart of Flagstaff.

The Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) offers a delightful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to explore the city’s natural beauty on foot, by bike, or while running. This extensive network of interconnected trails weaves through Flagstaff, providing access to lush forests, serene meadows, and scenic overlooks.

Whether you’re seeking a stroll along tree-lined paths, a heart-pumping bike ride through pine-scented air, or a challenging trail run at high altitudes, FUTS has something for everyone.

The system connects various parks, neighborhoods, and points of interest, making it a convenient and picturesque way to experience the city’s unique blend of outdoor recreation and mountain-town charm.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for a workout or simply wish to soak in Flagstaff’s stunning natural surroundings at your own pace, FUTS offers an accessible and enjoyable way to connect with the great outdoors in this charming Northern Arizona city.

Whether you’re a dedicated space enthusiast or someone with a casual interest in the cosmos, Lowell Observatory offers an educational and awe-inspiring experience, making it a must-visit attraction in Flagstaff.

Lowell Observatory , situated in Flagstaff, Arizona, stands as a revered institution in the field of astronomy and an intriguing destination for curious minds. Founded in 1894, this historic observatory has made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe, including the discovery of Pluto in 1930.

Visitors to Lowell Observatory can engage in a range of captivating activities, from peering through powerful telescopes to attending informative presentations by astronomers. The observatory also hosts informative exhibits that showcase celestial wonders and the history of astronomical exploration.

Arizona Snowbowl , one of the top attractions for things to do in Flagstaff, beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the thrill of winter sports amid the stunning landscapes of the San Francisco Peaks.

As Flagstaff’s premier ski resort, Snowbowl offers a plethora of activities for visitors. During the winter, skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts can carve down the slopes, enjoying the crisp mountain air and breathtaking vistas. The resort caters to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, making it an inclusive destination for both families and adventure seekers.

Furthermore, Flagstaff itself boasts a wealth of attractions and experiences, from exploring the natural wonders of Coconino National Forest to indulging in the city’s vibrant cultural scene in downtown Flagstaff, making it an ideal base for a diverse range of activities year-round.

If you’re a winter sports enthusiast or simply looking for a dynamic Flagstaff adventure, Arizona Snowbowl offers an exhilarating addition to your list of things to do in this picturesque Arizona city.

Historic downtown Flagstaff, a picturesque and inviting destination, exudes a distinctive charm that captivates visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and unique character.

Nestled against the backdrop of the San Francisco Peaks, this historic district invites exploration along its quaint streets lined with charming boutiques, eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries.

Meandering through this enchanting area, travelers can soak in the city’s rich history as they admire well-preserved Victorian-era architecture and historical landmarks, including the historic Weatherford Hotel.

Whether savoring a cup of coffee at a local café, browsing for artisanal goods, or indulging in regional cuisine at one of the many restaurants, downtown Flagstaff promises an immersive and delightful experience that embodies the essence of this captivating Arizona city.

Visiting the Lava River Cave in Flagstaff promises a remarkable underground adventure like no other. This natural lava tube, formed by ancient volcanic activity, offers a unique glimpse into the Earth’s geological history.

Before embarking on your journey, ensure you’re well-prepared with sturdy footwear, warm clothing, and a reliable flashlight, as the cave can be dark, chilly, and uneven underfoot.

As you venture into its depths, you’ll be surrounded by fascinating lava formations, such as stalactites and flow marks, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring environment.

The narrow passages and winding tunnels add an element of excitement to the experience. Keep in mind that the cave is a sensitive environment, so it’s crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles, avoid touching formations, and leave the cave as pristine as you found it.

A visit to the Lava River Cave is a unique opportunity to explore the hidden wonders of Flagstaff’s geological past, making it a must-see attraction for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Related: Visit Flagstaff as part of an epic Arizona road trip !

Wupatki National Monument is a captivating historical site located just north of Flagstaff, Arizona, where visitors can step back in time and explore the ruins of ancient Puebloan dwellings.

This monument preserves the remnants of several prehistoric Native American communities that thrived in the region over 800 years ago.

Wupatki boasts a unique architectural style, characterized by multi-story sandstone dwellings and a distinct red rock landscape that adds to the site’s visual allure. The visitor center provides informative exhibits and guided tours to help guests understand the history and significance of the ancient Puebloan people who once called this area home.

Moreover, the surrounding landscapes of Wupatki offer opportunities for scenic hikes and exploration, making it an ideal destination for those interested in both archaeology and the stunning natural beauty of Northern Arizona.

The Flagstaff Brewery Trail is a delightful excursion for beer enthusiasts and a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local craft beer culture of Flagstaff. Along this trail, you’ll encounter a diverse range of breweries, each offering its own unique brews and atmospheres.

A standout among these is the Mother Road Brewing Company, which pays homage to the historic Route 66, often referred to as the “Mother Road.”

This brewery not only serves up an enticing selection of craft beers but also offers a welcoming and nostalgic ambiance, making it a must-visit stop for travelers seeking a taste of both exceptional beer and the city’s rich history

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is a unique and captivating destination for travelers near Flagstaff. This national monument preserves the remnants of a relatively young volcanic eruption that occurred nearly a thousand years ago.

Visitors can explore the otherworldly landscape of Sunset Crater, characterized by its black lava flows, cinder fields, and the iconic red and orange volcanic cone. Hiking trails wind through the area, allowing visitors to get up close to the volcanic features and experience the stark beauty of this dynamic geologic site.

The Lava Flow Trail, in particular, offers a fascinating journey through the hardened lava fields, providing insights into the powerful forces that shape the Earth’s surface.

For those interested in geology, history, or simply the marvels of the natural world, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is an engaging and visually striking destination just a short drive from Flagstaff.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park in Flagstaff offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and heritage of the region. This beautifully preserved Arts and Crafts-style mansion was built in 1904 for the Riordan brothers, timber industry tycoons, and provides a captivating look into the opulent lifestyle of the early 20th century elite in northern Arizona.

Guided tours of the mansion take visitors through its well-appointed rooms, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and architectural details. The park also features lovely gardens and offers insights into the Riordan family’s contributions to the local community.

It’s a remarkable destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the cultural and economic history of Flagstaff and the American West.

Meteor Crater, located just east of Flagstaff, is a geological marvel and a must-visit destination for those fascinated by the Earth’s history. Formed approximately 50,000 years ago when a meteorite struck the Earth’s surface, this immense crater, nearly a mile in circumference and over 550 feet deep, is one of the best-preserved impact sites in the world.

Visitors can explore the Meteor Crater Visitor Center, which offers informative exhibits, a viewing platform overlooking the crater, and guided tours for a deeper understanding of this cosmic collision.

It’s a humbling experience to stand on the edge of this colossal crater, appreciating the forces of nature and the significance of meteor impacts in shaping our planet’s geological evolution.

Read Next: Don’t pass up the chance to do these great activities in nearby Sedona !

The Orpheum Theater in Flagstaff is a historic gem that adds a touch of cultural richness to the city’s vibrant downtown. Originally opened in 1911, this beautifully restored venue hosts a diverse array of live performances, concerts, film screenings, and events throughout the year.

The Orpheum’s vintage charm, with its ornate architecture and elegant decor, creates a unique and intimate setting for art and entertainment enthusiasts.

Whether you’re attending a live music concert, catching a classic film screening, or enjoying a theatrical performance, the Orpheum Theater promises an enchanting experience that transports you back in time while offering a dynamic and contemporary cultural scene in the heart of Flagstaff.

It’s a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s artistic and entertainment offerings.

The Pioneer Museum in Flagstaff, Arizona, stands as a captivating testament to the city’s rich heritage and the pioneering spirit that shaped its development. Housed in a beautifully restored 1908 hospital building, this museum offers an immersive journey through time, showcasing a diverse array of exhibits that detail Flagstaff’s history.

Visitors can explore the lives of early settlers, learn about the challenges they faced in the region’s rugged terrain, and gain insight into the growth of the community.

From antique artifacts to interactive displays, the Pioneer Museum provides an educational and engaging experience, shedding light on the cultural and historical tapestry of Flagstaff and the individuals who contributed to its growth and prosperity.

The Ruins Loop Scenic Drive near Flagstaff offers a captivating journey through both ancient history and stunning natural landscapes. This scenic drive encompasses two remarkable national monuments: Wupatki National Monument and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

At Wupatki, you can explore the well-preserved ruins of Puebloan villages, providing a glimpse into the lives of Native Americans who inhabited the area over 800 years ago.

Continuing along the drive, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument reveals the dramatic impact of volcanic eruptions, with its striking volcanic landscapes and unique lava flows.

This route allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural and geological history of the region while enjoying panoramic vistas and photo opportunities.

Where to Stay in Flagstaff

These are our recommendations for the best places to stay in Flagstaff.

The Little America Hotel is a luxurious retreat nestled within a sprawling 500-acre ponderosa pine forest. This high-end accommodation offers elegant rooms and suites, exceptional amenities, and breathtaking mountain views.

Guests can enjoy fine dining at the on-site restaurant, unwind by the outdoor heated pool, or take advantage of the fitness center and spa facilities. With its upscale ambiance and serene surroundings, The Little America Hotel provides a tranquil and indulgent escape.

Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, this mid-range hotel offers spacious rooms and suites. Families can take advantage of the indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. The hotel is conveniently located near downtown Flagstaff, making it easy to explore the city’s dining and shopping options.

Super 8 offers affordable and comfortable accommodations with amenities like free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking. It’s a budget-friendly option for travelers looking for basic but clean and convenient lodging.

As we bid farewell to Flagstaff, we can’t help but reflect on the incredible adventures we’ve had in this remarkable destination. From wandering through the serene beauty of the Ponderosa pines in Coconino National Forest to delving into the rich cultural heritage at the Museum of Northern Arizona, Flagstaff has left an indelible mark on our hearts. 

And, of course, the grand finale of our journey—the awe-inspiring South Rim of the Grand Canyon—reminded us of the sheer majesty of Mother Nature. This city truly offers a diverse range of experiences, making it a must-visit for any traveler.

So, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking thrilling hikes and scenic drives or a history buff eager to uncover the stories of the past, Flagstaff is a destination that won’t disappoint. With its unique blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures, this city invites you to explore, discover, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

So, pack your bags, embark on your own Flagstaff adventure, and let this incredible city captivate your spirit. As we say our farewells to this enchanting place, we carry with us the memories of Flagstaff’s beauty and the knowledge that there are always more things to do in Flagstaff than can fit into a single trip, making it a destination worth returning to again and again.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Flagstaff (Arizona)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 25, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

With everything from mountains to meteorite craters, Flagstaff is known for the kind of rugged natural beauty that you can only find in Arizona.

But did you know that there’s a lot more to the city than just hiking trails and rock climbing sites?

For tourists, you can’t go wrong with the entertainment scene of Flagstaff.

There are shops, bars, clubs and restaurants everywhere, and all of them will provide fun stuff to do on your Arizona vacation.

For scientists, Flagstaff is home to a number of museums, planetariums and observatories.

It’s even been recognized as “America’s First STEM Community” because of its dedication to math and science.

For historians, Flagstaff is one of the oldest settlements in Arizona, and it’s filled with rock dwellings and crumbling ruins that speak to centuries of ancient living.

It’s also close to a number of Native American reservations where the old ways are still practiced today.

Visitors can learn a lot about their traditions and history by emerging themselves in the local culture.

Are you ready to experience all of the amazing things that Flagstaff, Arizona, has to offer?

Whether you’re looking for travel hacks , local hot spots or just cool places to go, we’ve got you covered. Here are 24 crazy things to do in Flagstaff.

Table of Contents

1. Coconino National Forest

Harry Beugelink / Shutterstock

Coconino National Forest is one of the most stunning places in Arizona.

It covers more than 1.8 million acres and is home to a diverse range of landscapes that include forests, deserts, marshes, mountains, wetlands and volcanic summits.

You could lose entire weekends to its wilderness!

The forest is perhaps most famous for its red rock canyons.

Towering over a dry, stark landscape, they’re the kind of dramatic cliff formations that you can only find in Arizona.

If you’re feeling brave, you can walk, hike or bike them to the very top.

If you aren’t in the mood for sand, there are other attractions in Coconino National Forest as well.

You can go camping in the tree groves; you can go swimming or rafting in the creeks.

You can explore petroglyph sites or wander through a series of underground river caves.

You can take pictures until your camera shutter refuses to work anymore.

There’s a little something for everyone at the Coconino National Forest, so it’s easily one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.

It might even be one of the best things to do in the entire state of Arizona!

Whether you like splashing in the water or working up a dusty sweat on a desert trail, you’ll enjoy this great Arizona destination.

Address:  Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

2. Museum of Northern Arizona

Alizada Studios / Shutterstock

Arizona is home to many different Native American tribes, but much of their history has been lost over the years.

Their art has been destroyed; their jewelry, pottery and household goods have been broken or scattered.

The Museum of Northern Arizona is dedicated to both the celebration and preservation of Native American culture.

It showcases everything from fierce headdresses to delicate wall tapestries, and its exhibits are open to everyone who wants to learn more about the original residents of Flagstaff.

Not everything about the Museum of Northern Arizona is steeped in tradition, however.

Not everything is somber and sacred.

For example, one of their recent galleries revolved around contemporary Native American artists showing off their love of Star Wars.

The force was with them, and they weren’t afraid to show it.

The Museum of Northern Arizona is a nice way to explore the history and culture of the indigenous people of Flagstaff.

You’ll learn new things, and the price of your ticket will go towards a good cause.

Plan a visit to the Museum of Northern Arizona for an educational and entertaining time.

Address:  3101 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

3. Grand Canyon National Park

Erik Harrison / Shutterstock

You can’t visit Arizona without visiting the Grand Canyon . It’s the law.

Fortunately, Flagstaff is very near the “south rim” section of the Grand Canyon, so you can enjoy a trip to the city and an excursion into the wilderness when you visit this particular part of Arizona.

You’ll start with a short drive from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon.

Once you’ve arrived, you can take your pick of how to see the sights.

Do you want to strike out on an independent walking tour, or would you prefer driving, cycling, shuttling or horseback riding with an experienced guide?

Would you like to hop on a helicopter for an aerial tour?

Can you hike a scorching trail with nothing more than a water bottle and a lot of determination?

There are other things to do besides sightseeing, too.

You can take a train ride on the Grand Canyon Railway, or you can spend some money at the shops and restaurants of the Grand Canyon Village.

You can even book a room at an on-site hotel if you want to explore the cliffs for an extended period of time.

It all starts with a trip to Flagstaff.

If you want to cross the Grand Canyon off your bucket list, pull up a map and start planning a trip to Arizona.

4. Downtown Flagstaff

canadastock / Shutterstock

According to legend, Flagstaff was named for the original settlers who stripped a wooden post and attached the American flag to it.

This flagstaff stood for years as a testament to the origins of the city and its place in Arizona history.

Today, downtown Flagstaff has been revitalized into a busy hub of commerce, but it still retains some old-fashioned charm.

Vintage hotels have architecture from generations past, and railways and red brick tunnels will remind you of the city’s industrial origins.

The shade-covered plaza is always bustling with crowds. The big cities of Arizona don’t have this nostalgic air, but Flagstaff does.

Additionally, a lot of fun things to do in Flagstaff can be found in the downtown area.

Not only are there shops and restaurants everywhere, but you can also enjoy festivals, carnivals, parades and other special events that are held in the main square.

For example, Flagstaff broadcasts free movies in the plaza every summer.

If you’re wondering where to begin with your Arizona vacation, consider downtown Flagstaff.

It has so many points of interest that you could spend your entire vacation within a few square blocks.

But even if you want to see more of Flagstaff than the main plaza, the latter is a good starting point!

5. Lowell Observatory

Lissandra Melo / Shutterstock

Lowell Observatory is one of the oldest astronomy centers in the state of Arizona.

It’s also one of the most famous; its research facilities have discovered everything from stars to planetary rings, and it was a major base of operations for NASA’s Apollo missions.

Visitors to Lowell Observatory can enjoy all kinds of celestial fun.

There are stargazing events and sightseeing tours; there are classes, workshops, demonstrations and film showings.

You can peer through a telescope and see the shadows on the moon; you can attend a lecture with a laser-guided light show to learn more about the galaxy and your own place within it.

If you’re a science lover who is looking for geeky stuff to do in Flagstaff, you won’t want to miss the Lowell Observatory.

Not only does it have an important place in STEM history, but it can also teach you a thing or two if you’re interested in the world beyond the stars.

Your body might be in Arizona, but your mind can take flight to the universe!

Address:  1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

Going to other parts of Arizona? You’ll love our lists of things to do in Tucson  & things to do in Phoenix !

6. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course

Bill Morrow / flickr

Get your heart racing with a trip to the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course .

Offering everything from suspended rope bridges to zip lines stretching between tree canopies, it’s a surefire way to kick-start your adrenaline on your Arizona vacation.

Are you new to the world of thrill-seeking?

Try a beginner’s obstacle course where you climb a rock wall or work your way across raised wooden planks.

Are you skilled in the art of death-defying adventures?

Try one of the advanced challenges where you throw yourself into a harness and fly across the forest while whooping at the top of your lungs.

You don’t even have to leave the kids at home.

The company offers child-friendly courses that are challenging but safe, so the whole family can get in on the excitement as they test themselves against various physical and emotional challenges.

You won’t need a lot of time to conquer the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course, but it’s one of those fun weekend attractions that will give you a great story when you get home.

Anyone can visit Flagstaff, but how many people can say that they ziplined through its trees?

Address:  Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

7. Arizona Snowbowl

Mariusz S. Jurgielewicz / Shutterstock

It’s a common misconception that Arizona is nothing but a desert.

Flagstaff is proof of that; there are green forests and blue rivers as far as the eye can see.

Another place that defies expectations is the Arizona Snowbowl .

Located just a few miles north of Flagstaff, the Arizona Snowbowl is a ski resort located on top of a volcanic mountain range.

It offers dazzling views that exceed 11,500 feet, and there’s a thriving community of bars, restaurants and souvenir shops that will give you the full “village” experience.

As for outdoor fun, the Arizona Snowbowl has all kinds of winter sports and games for you to enjoy.

The big one is skiing; there are slopes for every age and skill level.

You can also go snowboarding or snow tubing, or you can ride on a chair lift for incredible, heart-stopping views.

Some of the best things to do in Flagstaff are the ones that you wouldn’t expect.

Throw away your flip-flops and pack your snowboarding boots; it’s time to hit the powder of the Arizona Snowbowl.

Address:  9300 N Snow Bowl Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

8. The Arboretum at Flagstaff

The Arboretum at Flagstaff

Covering more than 200 acres, The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a great place to unwind during the mad dash of an Arizona vacation.

It’s beautiful and tranquil, and it offers low-key pursuits for visitors of all ages.

The most popular activity is sightseeing.

The arboretum is home to 750 species of trees and flowers, and a series of walking trails will let you enjoy all of their rustling leaves and fragrant petals.

You can also take a guided tour or enjoy lunch at one of the designated picnic locations.

Another nice feature of the Arboretum at Flagstaff is its butterfly house.

They aren’t common in Arizona, but you can find one right here at the arboretum.

Wander among hundreds of brilliant, colorful butterflies; feed them special nectars; encourage them to land on your fingers.

Kids will especially love this personal touch from nature’s creatures!

Consider a visit to the Arboretum at Flagstaff if you’re looking for unique points of interest in Arizona.

Not every state has this kind of scenery to enjoy, so take advantage of it while you can.

Address:  4001 S Woody Mountain Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

9. Pioneer Museum

Trevor Huxham / flickr

You don’t have to travel to places like Richmond to get a taste of the American frontier.

Flagstaff was known as a lumber and railway town as far back as the 1800s, and these things are still alive in places like the Pioneer Museum .

Run by the Arizona Historical Society, the Pioneer Museum runs out of an old converted hospital and sprawls across several acres of natural land.

Vintage wagons, cabooses and log cars are set up as interactive displays around the main building, and a one-room cabin allows visitors to peek inside for educational displays.

The museum itself houses all kinds of artifacts and exhibits from the old days.

It’s on the second floor of the hospital; the other floors are reserved for things like folk festivals, old art galleries and line dancing classes.

Take a step back in time with a visit to the Pioneer Museum.

It’s one of those places that celebrates traditional interests in all forms, so if you’re intrigued by the history of Flagstaff, this is the place to go.

Address:  2340 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

10. Orpheum Theater

Fotoluminate LLC / Shutterstock

Billed as the “premier entertainment venue” of Arizona, the Orpheum Theater manages to combine small-town charm with big-city production values.

From the outside, it might not catch your eye.

It’s a simple building with an almost vintage aesthetic, and it’s easy for it to get lost among all of the gleaming lights of a busy Flagstaff night.

Once you’re inside, however, the Orpheum Theater lives up to its reputation as an outstanding music hall.

The grand architecture will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a luxury opera house, and state-of-the-art acoustics will help every sound of the performers reach your ears.

As for the shows, you’ll have your pick of plays, concerts and comedy routines.

There’s always something happening at the Orpheum Theater.

Here’s one of our best travel tips : Call the venue and see what’s going on before you arrive.

While some tickets can be purchased at the door, other events might be popular enough to require an advance booking.

You don’t want to miss out on the latest and greatest shows at the Orpheum Theater.

Remember, it’s one of the best destinations for art and theater in the entire state of Arizona!

Address:  5511, 15 W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

Visiting other areas of Arizona? Check out our lists of best things to do in Sedona  & fun things to do in Scottsdale !

11. Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery

Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery

Memphis is known for its barbecue. Kansas City is known for its chili.

What kind of food can you find in Flagstaff?

More importantly, where can you go to find it?

One potential destination is Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery .

It offers everything from frothy cappuccinos topped with cinnamon to breakfast burritos stuffed with eggs, cheese, bacon and sausage.

It’s one of the best-rated eating establishments in Flagstaff, and its menu reflects both its quality and diversity.

Last but not least, Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery won’t break the bank.

While not the cheapest restaurant in the city, it’s very reasonably priced considering the high quality of the ingredients and the generosity of its portion sizes.

This isn’t an establishment where you look at your plate and think, “That’s it?”

You’ll get your money’s worth.

If your stomach is rumbling, consider a visit to Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery.

Whatever you’re craving for, you can find something good to fill your belly.

Address:  1500 E Cedar Ave #40, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA

12. Flagstaff Mall

Flagstaff Mall

Oh no! You forgot to buy kitschy Arizona t-shirts for your friends and family!

Swing by the Flagstaff Mall to scoop up some souvenirs.

As the largest shopping complex in the city, the Flagstaff Mall offers plenty of options for people who are looking to spend some money.

There are more than 60 retailers in the multi-story space, including big-name brands and small, independent shops.

Whether you’re looking for expensive jewelry or cheap key chains, you’ll be able to find it here.

The Flagstaff Mall is pretty interesting from a visual standpoint, too.

It’s designed to look like an old-fashioned pioneer lodge with wooden beams and brick features, and its central resting area is an indoor, four-sided fireplace.

You can relax in front of the blaze after you’ve filled your arms with shopping bags and food court goodies.

If you check the mall’s schedule, you might even get lucky with a special event that coincides with your vacation.

Flagstaff welcomes a number of authors, actors and musicians, and the mall is one of their favorite spots to sign books or shake hands with their fans.

It might not be the fanciest shopping complex in the world, but there’s a quaint kind of charm to the Flagstaff Mall.

You’ll also find everything that you could possibly want from its stores, stalls and kiosks.

It’s worth a visit at any time of day or night!

Address:  4650 US-89, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA

13. Wupatki National Monument

spacaj / Shutterstock

Officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Wupatki National Monument is an amazing collection of natural ruins.

In addition to being a beautiful sightseeing location, it’s also a place where you can explore the history of multiple Native American tribes, including the Sinagua, Cohonina and Kayenta Anasazi.

The word “Wupatki” means “tall house,” and it refers to a gigantic pueblo that stretches for more than 50 miles and includes hundreds of rooms, stairs and ball courts.

It’s surrounded by red cliffs and green desert cacti to make a colorful tableau.

Access is restricted in some areas to preserve the sanctity of the ruins, but you can get close enough for awesome views and pictures.

You might also enjoy the grounds around the Wupatki National Monument.

You can take a driving tour if you aren’t the hiking type, but there’s something satisfying about lacing up your boots and venturing down the trails yourself.

You’ll enjoy a feeling of accomplishment when you finally make it to the ruins.

The Wupatki National Monument is one of the most historically significant places to visit in Flagstaff.

It’s stood for thousands of years and will probably stand for thousands more.

If you’re wondering what to see in the region, stop by the tall house.

Address:  25137 N Wupatki Ln, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA

14. Grand Falls

Sierralara / Shutterstock

The Grand Falls aren’t like other waterfalls.

Nicknamed “Chocolate Falls,” they have muddy, sediment-laden water with a light brown color, and they’re comprised of several different waterfalls that join together in a gigantic basin at the bottom of a canyon.

They were formed by lava flowing from a meteorite crater into a nearby river, and they’re fed today by rain and snowmelt from the mountains.

Despite their unusual appearance, however, the Grand Falls aren’t a cute little oddity.

They’re some of the most impressive waterfalls in Arizona.

They’re both taller and stronger than Niagara Falls, and they move literal tons of water with immense power and pressure.

Their roaring sound alone will take your breath away!

Visitors can observe the falls from multiple viewing points along the marked nature trails.

It might be a bit difficult to find them; they’re located a few miles from Flagstaff on Navajo land.

Fortunately, you don’t need any special permits to visit them. As long as you have a map, you should be fine.

Grand Falls is one of those beautiful, natural places that you can only find in Arizona.

Where else can you see chocolate waterfalls formed by meteorite lava?

They’re a pearl of Flagstaff, and they’ll provide one-of-a-kind photographs to admire when your vacation is over.

15. Mother Road Brewing Company

Thomas Trompeter / Shutterstock

Located on the historic Route 66, the Mother Road Brewing Company will let you get a nice buzz in a relaxed atmosphere.

It isn’t one of those ultra-polished beerhouses with squeaky floors and expensive glasses that you’re afraid to break.

At the Mother Road Brewing Company, you’ll be served craft beers in solid, thick-bottomed mugs.

You can buy your drinks from the bar or as part of a tour, or you can make your own brews during a special class.

Once you have your beverage, you can enjoy it in a comfortable bar or patio setting with friendly locals.

The brewery even offers board games if you want to challenge one of your new friends to a match.

Maybe you’re hitting all of the roadside attractions of Route 66. Maybe you’re just driving with the windows down and going where life takes you.

If you’re planning an epic road trip, make sure that Flagstaff is on your list of must-see destinations along with places like Gainesville , Minneapolis and Las Vegas .

The Mother Road Brewing Company is just one of the cool destinations of Arizona, but it certainly isn’t the last.

Address:  7 S Mikes Pike St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

16. Mount Elden

Masafoto / Shutterstock

If you’ve seen a picture of Flagstaff, you’ve probably seen a picture of Mount Elden.

It has a total elevation of 9,301 feet, so it towers above the city skyline and is visible from just about every location within the city.

The good news is that you don’t have to be satisfied with pictures alone.

Though it might look imposing, Mount Elden is a well-loved and well-traveled summit, and thousands of people make the climb every year.

You can walk, bike or drive through a series of trails to reach the mountain’s peak, and the views from the clouds will mesmerize you from every direction.

Getting back down is just as exciting as going up.

While you can take the same trail if you’re worried about getting lost, you can also take a different roundabout to reach your original destination.

This means new animals, new activities and lots of new things to see.

Do you want to see Flagstaff laid before you like a prize?

Do you want to take some incredible photos of the Arizona wilderness for your travel blog?

Strap on your backpack and get to moving on Mount Elden.

17. Bushmaster Park

With everything from tennis courts to shaded picnic areas, Bushmaster Park is one of the most fun things to do in Flagstaff.

It’s a park that has a little something for everyone.

Your kids can enjoy the swings and climbing structures of the playground; your teenagers can flaunt their apathy at the skate park.

Even your dogs can frolic freely in the “bark park” designed just for pets!

As for you and the other grown-ups, you can shoot some hoops at the basketball court or volley a few lobs at the tennis courts.

There are also bathrooms, drinking fountains and picnic tables for your practical family vacation needs.

Many people wonder what to do in Flagstaff. They stop wondering when they realize the potential of Bushmaster Park.

It can provide a lot of fun for the whole family, so don’t hesitate to visit, skate, dunk, picnic and play fetch!

Address:  Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA

18. San Francisco Peaks

julius fekete / Shutterstock

Despite their name, the San Francisco Peaks are located squarely in Arizona.

They were christened by friars who wanted to honor St. Francis in 1629.

They’re known by other names as well, including Dook’o’oosliid (“the summit which never melts”) in Navajo and Nuva’tukya’ovi (“place of snow on the very top”) in Hopi.

As for the mountains themselves, there’s plenty to see and do around their cliffs and canyons.

You can start with a summit to Humphrey’s Peak, the highest point in all of Arizona, and you can end with a trekking or camping experience in one of the many recreational areas cleared off for tourists.

The only downside of the San Fransisco Peaks is that they’re vulnerable to changes in the weather.

For example, an unusually warm winter might put a stop to your sledding, or a rainy weekend might dampen your dreams of hiking a trail that became too muddy.

You should always call ahead and ask about the condition of the mountain before you go.

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Flagstaff, however, it doesn’t get much better than the San Fransisco Peaks.

They’ll provide amazing views for sightseers and incredible opportunities for adventurers.

They’re near and dear to the hearts of the locals, and they’ll become one of your favorite places in Arizona as well.

19. Flagstaff Aquaplex

We’ve talked a lot about snowy days in Arizona, but what if you’re traveling there in the summer?

What if you’re looking for places to visit that can cool you off when those desert temperatures start climbing?

The Flagstaff Aquaplex will be a soothing balm to hot and humid days.

It’s an aquatic-themed recreation center with pools, slides and water playgrounds for visitors of all ages.

If you don’t feel like getting wet, there are other ways to enjoy yourself as well.

The aquaplex is attached to a gym with all kinds of fitness activities, including an indoor rock wall.

You can also sign up for classes in everything from yoga to kickboxing.

You might not have expected this kind of splash from an Arizona attraction.

You might have thought that you could only get such experiences from beach destinations like Tallahassee or Santa Cruz .

If you’re willing to make do with pools instead of oceans, however, you’ll find that Arizona can be just as wet and wild as Florida or California .

You just have to trust in the aquaplex as one of the most fun things to do in Flagstaff.

Address:  1702 N Fourth St, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA

20. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

BD Images / Shutterstock

Arizona is full of historic things to see, but few attractions have put in as much effort as the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park .

Its proprietors actually tracked down the negatives of the original mansion and remodeled it to be as authentic as possible!

So, what’s the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park?

It’s a historical site where visitors can learn about everything from the history of the stagecoach to the origins of the first settlers of Flagstaff.

Tours are available for people who want to view the mansion in all of its restored glory.

There’s a constant rotation of exhibits, lectures, classes and events to educate the masses about centuries past.

You might also want to take a walk outside of the mansion.

There’s an abundance of natural wildlife in the fields and forests surrounding the building, and you can walk along the trails to enjoy a quiet, scenic afternoon in nature.

It’s perfect for a weekend getaway.

The hours of operation at the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park will change depending on the season, so make sure to double-check before you go.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Arizona , so you don’t want to be left standing outside of a locked door!

Address:  409 W Riordan Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

21. Monte Vista Lounge

Nick|Allen / flickr

Despite its proximity to Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff isn’t known as a rowdy college town. The nightlife can be a bit sparse.

An exception to the rule is the Monte Vista Lounge .

It offers food, drink and live music in a combined bar and lounge setting where the locals go to see and be seen.

It’s one of those places where you can always find a good drink and a friendly ear if you’re in a sociable mood.

You don’t have to worry about fitting in with the right crowd, either.

The Monte Vista Lounge has two floors that cater to different demographics.

The upstairs bar is where the older people hang out; the downstairs bar is where the younger folk let down their hair.

It might not be one of the major points of interest in Flagstaff, but the Monte Vista Lounge should provide more than enough entertainment for a bored individual looking for new things to see.

The liquor is always flowing, and the music is always pulsing. There are definitely worse ways to spend a night.

Address:  100 N San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

22. The Geekery

The Geekery

The Geekery might not top the usual “what to do in Flagstaff” lists.

It’s a small gaming establishment that doesn’t offer any majestic mountain views or adrenaline-soaked obstacle courses.

On a rainy day, however, the Geekery can keep your family from climbing the walls of your hotel.

You can’t always trust the weather in Arizona to stay pleasant, especially in high-elevation cities like Flagstaff, so it’s nice to have a backup plan when the trails get too muddy for a hike.

What’s so special about the Geekery?

Simply put, it’s a place to enjoy games.

Whether you’re into board games, video games or card games, you can find something to entertain you at the Geekery.

It might be a shopping rack of Zelda plushies; it might be a tabletop where you can challenge someone to a round of Monopoly.

If you like playing games, the Geekery will provide a safe, comfortable place to get your geek on.

It’s also one of the best places to visit on a stormy day or snowy night.

You don’t have to drive around Flagstaff looking for open attractions; you can just walk into the Geekery and find yourself in a world where anything is possible.

Address:  1800 S Milton Rd #110-111, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

23. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

turtix / Shutterstock

If you’ve ever wanted to see a genuine relic from outer space, plan a trip to the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark .

It’s a gigantic impact crater from a meteorite that struck Earth around 50,000 years ago, and it’s located just a few miles east of Flagstaff.

Stretching almost a mile wide, the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is one of the few crater sites that you can see in the US, and it’s the only one in the entire state of Arizona.

While you can’t actually hop inside of it because of preservation reasons, you can view it from both an upper and lower observation deck, and you can touch rocks from the crash through the on-site museum.

You can also learn a lot about space through the museum.

It offers films, presentations, special exhibits and an astronaut hall of fame, and visitors are encouraged to pick up some fun facts about meteors while marveling at the site where one of them struck.

The Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.

It’s cool; it’s unique; it will make you a little more educated than you were before. What’s not to love?

Address:  Interstate 40, Winslow, AZ 86047, USA

24. Fort Tuthill County Park

Fort Tuthill Bike Park

Open year-round, Fort Tuthill County Park is one of the best vacation spots in Arizona.

Its unique location near Flagstaff allows for quick access to tourists, and its full activity roster means that there’s something to do in every season.

In the summer, visitors can play golf, ride horses, take archery lessons, bike around the trails and enjoy the many different fairs and festivals that take place on the grounds.

There are also weekly concerts and outdoor music events for people in Flagstaff who like to groove.

In the winter, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland of white, fluffy snow, and visitors can enjoy a wide range of cold-weather activities.

From skiing to snowshoeing, this place has it all.

Arizona is home to more than its fair share of parks and campgrounds, but there’s something special about Fort Tuthill County Park.

You’ll have to see it to believe it. Let us know how your visit goes!

Address:  2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, AZ 86005, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To Flagstaff

Not only is Flagstaff one of the nicest cities in Arizona, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the US .

These are just a few suggestions if you’re looking for points of interest in this remarkable destination.

You don’t have to drive around the streets and debate what to do with your time; with a list like this, you can plan your entire trip in advance.

Flagstaff is full of amazing things to do. You just have to decide where to go and what to see!

17 Best Things to Do in Flagstaff, AZ — Top Activities & Places to Go!

By: Author Emma Davis

Posted on Published: May 6, 2021  - Last updated: October 12, 2023

Flagstaff has the perfect recipe to an unforgettable and pleasurable adventure.

While a bit underrated, this city is overflowing with attractions to satisfy your travel cravings.

From cultural marvels to awe-inspiring natural wonders, this city will replenish your mind and rejuvenate your body in many ways.

So, start plotting your vacation here now by checking out our list of the best things to do in Flagstaff, AZ.

1. Walnut Canyon National Monument

3 Walnut Canyon Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 526-3367

In 1915, this 3,529-acre archaeological wonder was designated a national monument by President Woodrow Wilson.

Why You Should Go

Walnut Canyon is, no doubt, one of the must-see attractions in Flagstaff, especially for history buffs and culture vultures.

Even with its steep walls, this canyon is lined with ancient cliff dwellings built from 1100 to 1250 AD by the Sinugua.

Hiking the Island Trail is the best way to see these 25 primitive ancient homes.

Alternatively, you may hike the 30-minute-long Rim Trail, which rewards visitors with striking canyon panoramas.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Little America Hotel Flagstaff

2. Lowell Observatory

1400 W Mars Hill Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 774-3358

Established in 1894, this National Historic Landmark will unleash your inner astronomer with its world-class telescope.

Searching for fascinating things to do in Flagstaff tonight?

Do yourself a favor and put this astronomical observatory at the top of your list of places to visit in Flagstaff.

Through its state-of-the-art equipment, this observatory lets you see the stars and other planets.

Peruse interactive displays and models on the solar system.

You can also attend lectures on topics like the discovery of Pluto and black holes.

And, don’t forget to check out the telescope, and see all the stars and planets.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff

3. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

6082 Sunset Crater Road Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 526-0502

Encompassing 3,040 acres, this park has been a National Monument since 1930.

A volcano, about 950 years ago, erupted and completely transformed the area.

Today, this volcano is called the Sunset Crater, and is surrounded by otherworldly landscapes.

With its desolate and dramatic topography, it’s a photogenic site you can’t afford to miss in Flagstaff.

Climb your way up to the Cinder Hills Overlook or hike the Lava Flow Trail.

Along the way, enjoy incredible sights featuring cinders and lava rocks.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham East Flagstaff

4. Museum of Northern Arizona

3101 N Fort Valley Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 774-5213

Founded by Dr. Harold S. Colton in 1928, this museum chronicles the Colorado Plateau’s nature and culture.

Wondering what to do in Flagstaff when it’s raining or cold?

Why not head indoors, and spend a couple of hours at this museum?

Through its permanent exhibits, the museum delves into 130,000-square-mile geological features forming the magnificent Colorado Plateau.

Learn more about the expansive history of the geology and ancient people of the area by touring the museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Flagstaff East

5. Arizona Snowbowl

9300 N SnowBowl Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 779-1951

Resting on the San Francisco Peaks, this alpine resort is an adventurer’s wonderland, known for its winter activities.

Arizona Snowbowl features some of the most exciting and fun things to do in Flagstaff, Arizona.

With 8 lifts, consistent snow and 55 runs, this 777-acre resort is a prime spot for snowboarding and skiing.

And, did we mention that it has Arizona’s longest skiing season?

There’s plenty of stuff to do here, besides snowboarding and skiing.

In summer, visitors may take picturesque hikes and chairlift rides.

Meanwhile, fall provides visitors ample opportunities to appreciate the autumn colors and enjoy the resort’s delicious hot chocolates.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff

6. Wupatki National Monument

25137 N Wupatki Ln Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 679-2365

In 1966, this 35,422-acre archaeological site earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places.

The Wupatki National Monument is a wondrous culture and nature preserve.

In fact, ancient civilizations have once inhabited this region, leaving behind their beguiling pueblos.

Furthermore, the park dazzles with striking red rock landscapes.

Stop by the visitor center, and pick up some information on this park and its ancient residents.

Afterward, take a walking tour of the park, and pause to admire pueblo ruins along the way.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Suites Flagstaff East

7. Buffalo Park

2400 N Gemini Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 213-2300

At 215 acres, this free-admission park is the perfect antidote to your frenzied and stressful lifestyle.

Searching for free things to do in Flagstaff ?

Then, make sure to spend some time exploring Buffalo Park this weekend.

For everybody’s favorite price of zero dollars, you may enjoy the park’s refreshing ambiance and impressive network of trails.

Hike the 2-mile-long Native Avery Trail, and soak up panoramas of Mount Elden, and the Dry Lake Hills.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Flagstaff East I-40

8. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

409 W Riordan Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 779-4395

Governed by the Arizona State Parks, this historical site was established in 1978.

The Riordan Mansion woos visitors with its eye-catching arts and craft architectural design.

Built in 1904, this building has outstanding structural elements too, like volcanic stones and log slab sliding.

Not to mention, it’s restored beautifully with its period pieces and original elements.

Enjoy a guided tour of the mansion’s 40 rooms, and uncover the interesting tidbits about the structure.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Flagstaff

Related: Best Restaurants in Flagstaff

9. Coconino National Forest

Lake Mary Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 527-3600

At 1.856 acres, this national forest is an absolute treat for outdoor aficionados and nature lovers.

Sprawling and majestic, this national forest is home to a diverse range of untouched landscapes.

As you explore this forest, you’ll see volcanic fields, verdant forests , massive messas, ponderosa pines and deserts.

You can spend days camping, mountain biking and hiking in this forest.

You may also admire its shimmering streams and twinkling lakes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard Flagstaff

Related: Arizona: Places to Visit

10. Mother Road Brewing Company

7 S Mikes Pike St Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 774-9139

Since 2011, this brewery has been delighting guests with its superb creations and beers.

Mother Road guarantees to give you a nice buzz in a friendly, relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Besides its first-rate beers, you can also play its board games and drink in its patio setting.

You may enjoy their beers as part of their tour or from the bar.

You may also create your own craft beer in a special class.

Once you’ve grabbed your drink, head to the cozy bar and chill like a boss.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: GreenTree Inn Flagstaff

Also See: Things to Do in Scottsdale, Arizona Sedona, AZ Things to Do

11. Humphreys Peak

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Standing at 12,637 feet, this mountain is Arizona’s highest natural point.

In the mood for a heavy dose of adventure?

I suggest that you scale the state’s highest mountain, Humphrey’s Peak.

On clear days, hikers will be rewarded with views of the White Mountains and the Grand Canyon’s north rim from this mountain.

Hike the 9.5-mile-long trail, and soak in the awe-inspiring vistas from the summit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Flagstaff, AZ

12. Flagstaff Mall

4650 US-89 Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 526-4827

Open since 1979, this regional shopping center is the place to go for those who need some retail therapy.

Flagstaff Mall is unlike your typical fancy shopping complex. Built with bricks and wooden beams, this mall looks like a traditional pioneer lodge.

Even better, this mall is filled with terrific shopping finds.

Go on a shopping spree, hitting kiosks, stalls and stores, like JCPenney and Dilliard’s.

You may also partake in any of the mall’s special events and festivities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta ES Suites Flagstaff

13. Lava River Cave

171B Forest Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 526-0866

With a length of 0.75 miles, this lava tube is the longest discovered cave of its kind in Arizona.

Lava River Cave is, hands down, one of the most overlooked things to see in Flagstaff.

With its one-of-a-rock features and stone icicles, this cave is sure to mesmerize you.

Of course, it’s quite an adventure too, especially since there are no guides and lights in this cave.

Venture into this cavern, and be enthralled by its 30-foot-high cave roof and rock formations.

Just make sure to wear durable hiking shoes and pack a flashlight, as you explore this cave.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Flagstaff

Also See: What to Do in Page Things to Do in Tusayan

14. Pioneer Museum

2340 N Fort Valley Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 774-6272

Sitting along Highway 180, this unique museum is set inside a former hospital built in 1908.

A visit to this museum is truly one of the top things to do in Flagstaff with kids .

Not only does it feature educational exhibits, but it also has expansive grounds showcasing a Fire Engine.

Plus, it boasts a 1915 Model T Ford and a preserved steam engine.

Discover the town’s development between 1880 and 1960 by touring this museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Hotel by Wyndham Flagstaff

15. The Arboretum at Flagstaff

4001 S Woody Mountain Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 774-1442

Encompassing 200 acres, this arboretum shelters over 700 species native plants.

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Flagstaff for couples , then you’ll love this arboretum.

With its gorgeous backdrop, gardens and greenhouses, this attraction makes a romantic and lovely stroll.

Furthermore, this arboretum hosts numerous special programs and events.

Take a docent-led tour, and learn more about its beautiful plants, like the penstemon.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Flagstaff

16. Historic Downtown and Railroad District

1 E Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (800) 842-7293

Steeped in history, this pedestrian-friendly district is built along a historic railroad track.

The Historic Downtown is filled with 20th-century buildings that have been transformed to breweries, galleries and shops.

What’s more, the district hosts a variety of events, including movie nights, art walks and a farmers market.

For some cheap fun, wander around the area, and check out the railroad station, buildings and historical signposts.

You may also drink in its open-air music and chat with the friendly locals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn I-17 & I-40 Flagstaf

Related: Best Hotels in Flagstaff

17. Flagstaff Extreme

Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop Flagstaff, AZ 86005 (888) 259-0125

Nestled in Fort Tuthill County Park, this zipline course will quench your thirst for adventure with its challenging obstacles.

No list of the best things to do in Flagstaff, AZ is complete without this obstacle and zipline course.

Ideal for intrepid travelers, this obstacle course will test your limit through challenges, like wobbly bridges and rope swings.

Wear your workout gloves and sturdy shoes, and conquer these challenging courses.

If the children are in tow, there’s a kiddie course here suitable for the 7 to 11 crowd.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Flagstaff

Also See: Fun Things to Do in Payson, AZ Snowflake, Arizona Things to Do

Map of Things to Do in Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for [currentyear]

• Walnut Canyon National Monument
• Lowell Observatory
• Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
• Museum of Northern Arizona
• Arizona Snowbowl
• Wupatki National Monument
• Buffalo Park
• Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
• Coconino National Forest
• Mother Road Brewing Company
• Humphreys Peak
• Flagstaff Mall
• Lava River Cave
• Pioneer Museum
• The Arboretum at Flagstaff
• Historic Downtown and Railroad District
• Flagstaff Extreme

The Complete Guide to Flagstaff, Arizona

Lovingly called "Flag" by its 75,000 residents and frequent visitors, Flagstaff is roughly a two-hour drive from Phoenix and serves as the gateway to the Grand Canyon. During the summer, Phoenicians flock to the city, which sits at 7,000 feet in elevation, to escape the Valley's scorching temps, attend festivals, and hike in the surrounding ponderosa pine forest. When winter comes, many use Flagstaff as a base for winter sports, including downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

While Flagstaff makes a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, it also welcomes visitors to explore its quaint shops and artists' studios, check out its beer scene, and tour top-rated attractions like Lowell Observatory, the observatory where Pluto was discovered.

This comprehensive guide will help you plan a trip to Flagstaff and show you how to use it as a base for outdoor activities and a day trip to the Grand Canyon.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: Flagstaff is a year-round destination. In the summer, it provides a cool escape from triple-digit heat in Phoenix; in the winter, Flagstaff is popular with winter sports enthusiasts. Leaves change colors in and around Flagstaff during the fall, and spring is usually chilly but pleasant.

Getting Around: Downtown Flagstaff is pedestrian-friendly. You can explore more of the city by taking the Mountain Line bus ($1.25 per ride, $2.50 for a day pass) or using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft.

Travel Tip: Flagstaff is home to Northern Arizona University (NAU). The city tends to be quieter when school is out during the summer or for breaks and busier on weekends with home football games.

Things to Do

Exploring downtown Flagstaff's boutiques, shops, and galleries can take a full day, but the city has much more to see and do. Learn about the prehistoric tribes who once lived in the area, early cattle and sheep ranchers, the geology of the Grand Canyon, and the city's connection to NASA at Flagstaff's museums and attractions. Or discover natural wonders like the Grand Canyon to Humphrey's Peak, the highest natural point in the state. No matter what adventure you're looking for, Flagstaff won't disappoint.

History: Flagstaff's history predates its founding in 1894. The Museum of Northern Arizona showcases the area's geology as well as Native American history, culture and arts. Step inside a replica Hopi kiva at the museum, or visit the prehistoric ruins at Elden Pueblo Heritage Site . The Arizona Historical Society operates a pioneer museum in Flagstaff while the state maintains Riordan Mansion , an Arts and Crafts home built in 1904. To explore more recent history, drive Route 66 through town or stop at The Museum Club , a watering hole that harkens back to that era.

Nature: Located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounded by one of the largest ponderosa pine tree forests in the world, Flagstaff stands in sharp contrast to the Valley's desert landscape. Learn about local flora at The Arboretum at Flagstaff and fauna, including bobcats and otters, at Bearizona in nearby Williams. Just minutes from downtown Flagstaff, Lowell Observatory has exhibits on the universe, the discovery of Pluto onsite in 1930, and how astronauts trained for their lunar landing nearby.

Outdoor Activities: Flagstaff is an outdoor enthusiast's playground. In the summer, hike Humphrey's Peak, a challenging 9.2-mile trek with a 3,343-foot elevation change, or stroll the Flagstaff Urban Trail System , some of which ventures into national forest. For an adrenaline rush, test yourself on the aerial and zip line courses at Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course . During the winter, more than 100 inches of snow falls in the area. Downhill ski at the Arizona Snowbowl Winter Resort , cross-country ski at Arizona Nordic Village , or sled at Flagstaff Snow Park .

Grand Canyon: You can visit the Grand Canyon National Park on a long day trip from Phoenix, but a better strategy is to use Flagstaff as a base. Overnight in the city, and head to Grand Canyon the following morning. You'll have all day at the canyon, especially if you stay a second night in Flagstaff. To save time driving yourself to the national park from Flagstaff, skip the obvious route through Williams and take the back route instead. At the intersection of Highways 89 and 64, travel west on 64 to the park entrance. If you don't have a car, a shuttle is available from the bus station to Maswik Lodge in the park every four hours.

Nearby Attractions: Spending several days in Flagstaff allows time to explore a good deal of Northern Arizona. Just 18 miles north of the city, you can hike the other worldly terrain of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument ; adjacent Wupatki National Monument protects Pueblo ruins dating back to the 1100s. Other Pueblo sites include Walnut Canyon National Monument (11 miles east of Flagstaff) and Montezuma Castle National Monument (57 miles south). Less than an hour east on 1-40, Meteor Crater is the best preserved meteor impact site on the planet. You can also still get your kicks on Route 66 by driving west on the Mother Road through Williams and Seligman, the inspiration for the movie "Cars."

Where to Eat and Drink

The mountain community's 200-plus restaurants are, on a whole, outstanding. For a casual meal, order a wood-fired pizza from Pizzicletta , thick deli sandwich from Proper Meats + Provisions , or brisket from Satchmo's Cajun and Barbecue . Options for a special dinner out include Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar , Josephine's Modern American Bistro , Tinderbox Kitchen , and Criollo Latin Kitchen. Thanks in part to the university, global fare is also popular. Try Karma Sushi Bar Grill or Swaddee Thai Authentic Thai Cuisine when you're craving international flavors.

Flagstaff loves craft beer, so much so it has its own beer trail. The Flagstaff Brewery Trail features eight breweries in the city. (One brewery has two locations, making a total of nine stops on the trail.) Don't miss Beaver Street Brewery , the city's first brewery, or its nearby sister property, Lumberyard Brewing Co. The original location of Mother Road Brewing Co. is also within walking distance. If you enjoy experimental beers, Dark Sky Brewing Company pushes the limits with flavors like churro and peanut butter.

Although it's not on the brewery trail, Drinking Horn Mead Hall serves alcoholic meads sweetened mostly with fruit juices and occasionally with honey. Try black cherry or lemon ginger.

Where to Stay

The best place to stay is downtown since you can easily walk to restaurants, breweries, bars, and shops. To stay in one of the historic hotels downtown, book a room at The Hotel Weatherford or Hotel Monte Vista . For a modern downtown option, consider the Residence Inn Flagstaff . Some homes in downtown Flagstaff are available to rent, and chain hotels close to the university provide easy access to Mountain Line busses.

Although Flagstaff doesn't have a resort that rivals the ones in Sedona or Scottsdale, Little America Hotel is a AAA-Four Diamond property set on 500 acres of ponderosa pine forest. There are also several bed and breakfasts in the area, the most popular being The England House Bed and Breakfast near downtown Flagstaff.

Outdoor enthusiasts can stay in a cabin at Mormon Lake Lodge , Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins , and Ski Lift Lodge &Cabins or in yurt at the Arizona Nordic Village . There are a limited number of cabins at Flagstaff/Grand Canyon KOA as well.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to Flagstaff from Phoenix is by car. (Click here to learn more about renting a car at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.) Depending on your starting point in the Valley, the drive will take anywhere from two to two and a half hours. Before you go, check traffic conditions online or by dialing 511. If you don't have a car, you can travel by bus or shuttle.

• Plan to spend at least four hours in Flagstaff on a day trip. This will be enough time to explore downtown and have lunch or dinner. Add at least another hour per attraction you'd like to visit.
• Bring layers: a jacket or sweater, pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Temperatures in Flagstaff are roughly 30 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than they are in Phoenix. Even on an 80-degree summer day, temperatures can dip to 60 degrees after dark.
• In the winter, prepare for snow. At a minimum, bring a coat, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. Chains are not generally required on I-17 heading from Phoenix to Flagstaff, but some more remote roads may require chains or close altogether.
• Because Flagstaff is at such a high altitude, it's important to drink plenty of water and be careful about drinking too much alcohol. If you plan to hike, bike, or participate in other strenuous activities, you may want to plan an extra day to acclimate to the elevation.
• During the summer (and warmer weeks of spring and fall), the city hosts festivals, car shows, and events most weekends. Check the Flagstaff 365 calendar for details.

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Walnut Canyon National Monument

Wupatki national monument, lowell observatory, flagstaff, hatch river expeditions, flagstaff.

• Complete List & Map

3 Walnut Canyon Road, Flagstaff, Arizona, Phone: 928-526-3367

6400 US-89, Flagstaff, Arizona, Phone: 928-526-1157

1400 West Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, Arizona, Phone: 928-774-3358

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Mother Road Brewing Company

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Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

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Flagstaff Extreme

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Museum of Northern Arizona, Flagstaff

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Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff, AZ

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• 1. Walnut Canyon National Monument
• 2. Wupatki National Monument
• 3. Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff
• 4. Hatch River Expeditions, Flagstaff
• 5. Mother Road Brewing Company
• 6. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
• 7. Flagstaff Extreme
• 8. Lava River Cave, Flagstaff
• 9. Museum of Northern Arizona, Flagstaff
• 10. Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff, AZ
• 11. Arizona Snowbowl
• 12. The Arboretum at Flagstaff
• 13. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, Flagstaff, AZ
• 14. Arizona Nordic Village
• 15. Diablo Burger, Flagstaff, AZ
• 16. Humphreys Peak, Flagstaff, AZ
• 17. Buffalo Park, Flagstaff, Arizona
• 18. Things to Do in Flagstaff: Mama Burger
• 19. Collins Irish Pub & Grill, Flagstaff, Arizona
• 20. Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra
• 21. Grand Falls of the Little Colorado River
• 22. Brix, Flagstaff, Arizona
• 23. Fort Tuthill Military Museum, Flagstaff, Arizona
• 24. Twin Arrows Casino

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Resources: Arizona Tourism , AZ.gov , Instagram , Visit Phoenix

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28 Fun Things to Do in Flagstaff, Arizona

Published: September 9, 2022

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Angela Magsajo

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Wondering what to do in Flagstaff, Arizona ? From strolling through its historic downtown area to exploring its many natural wonders, the list of fun things to do in Flagstaff is endless! Situated in the mountains of northern Arizona, Flagstaff’s abounding diverse landscapes from rugged beauty to vibrant downtown, there is so much to explore. Meanwhile, the vibrant cultural scene will surely appeal to history buffs. It also boasts a hip and youthful vibe ideal for people who just want a chill and laid-back holiday.

Whether you’re looking to spend a family day out or searching for cheap weekend getaways , Flagstaff, AZ has it for you. Read on to discover all the best Flagstaff attractions and figure out what to do in Arizona today!

1. Go Hiking at the Grand Canyon National Park

Photo by blazekg on Adobe Stock

Located a few miles northwest of Flagstaff , the Grand Canyon is truly the city’s backyard. Explore the spectacular beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in the USA on foot, on the back of a mule, or from above on helicopter tours. For a one-of-a-kind view of the canyon, go on a whitewater rafting trip and float down the Colorado River. Spending the night under the stars at one of the campsites is also a popular activity at this tourist spot.

2. Marvel at the Meteor Crater

Photo by Gary Peplow on Adobe Stock

The Meteor Crater , also known as the Barringer Crater, is not just the largest meteor crater in the United States , but it’s the best-preserved in the world. Dating as far back as 50,000 years ago, this 550 feet deep crater draws in plenty of curious visitors who want to marvel at the evidence of when space and Earth collided.

You can easily add it to your list of things to do in Flagstaff because it’s located near the city . You can view the crater from the indoor viewing area or on one of the observation decks of the Meteor Crater Visitor Center. If you’re up to it, you can also get an up-close-and-personal view of the crater when you take part in one of the guided tours along its rim.

3. Explore Coconino National Forest

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Spawning across nearly two million acres, the Coconino National Forest is among the most diverse national forests in the United States . Off the bat, it boasts an alpine tundra, a ponderosa pine forest, a lowland desert, and several natural lakes.  It is also home to the Lava River Cave which is a 700,000-year-old mile-long lava tube, and the Inner Basin Trail which leads to an extinct volcano. You’ll likewise find several mountain bike trails in the area. Wildlife spotting, picnicking, fishing, camping, and skiing during winter are other popular things to do in this diverse landscape. All things considered, Coconino National Forest is an ideal destination for people in search of outdoor recreation activities.

4. Go Boating on Upper Lake Mary

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Hop on a boat and experience the charm of Upper Lake Mary , one of the best lakes in Arizona . With its sky-blue waters surrounded by ponderosa pine trees and meadows, it’s a picturesque destination near Flagstaff . The lake is popular with enthusiasts of all kinds of water sports, ranging from kayaking to water skiing. Additionally, it’s a great spot for angling plenty of crappie, trout, northern pike, and channel catfish. The area also features shaded picnic areas with barbecue grills where you can cook up and enjoy your catch of the day.

5. Go Cross-Country Skiing at Arizona Snowbowl

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Thinking of what to do during your winter getaway ? Go skiing at Flagstaff! Arizona Snowbowl is the premier skiing destination located just north of the city. Nestled between the slopes of Humphreys Peak, this ski resort offers gondola rides that will take you up 11,500 feet up in the mountain. The ski resort features 55 trails, ideal for both novice and more experienced skiers. You also get backcountry and uphill access for backcountry and cross-country skiing too, just as long as you obtain a permit beforehand.

And if you’re not visiting in the winter, you can still hit the slopes during summer. Arizona Snowbowl offers plenty of summer activities, including a dual-lane tubing hill. Traveling with kids? Then you’ll be glad to know that children aged 12 and under can ski for free! This is a fun family activity that you should not miss.

6. Learn About Space at Lowell Observatory

As the world’s first International Dark Sky City, Flagstaff is a popular destination among stargazers who want to witness the extraordinary beauty of its night skies. And if you want to learn a little more about space and the universe, make sure to include the Lowell Observatory in your itinerary of things to do in Flagstaff !

At the observatory, you can marvel at the telescope that was used to discover Pluto. Or, take a peek through Clark Telescope, a historic telescope that contributed to studies on Mars and the Apollo 11 moon landing. Other highlights of a visit to Lowell include stargazing events, workshops, and film showings.

7. Explore the Walnut Canyon National Monument

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Come and explore one of the most remarkable historical sites in Arizona. The Walnut Canyon National Monument is home to 25 cliff dwellings dating all the way back to 1100 AD. Traverse through these impressively well-preserved ruins of pueblos and pit-houses that once housed inhabitants of the prehistoric Native American tribes. 

Take the Rim Trail and walk along the canyon’s rim until you reach overlooks with scenic views of the canyon and cliff dwellings. Meanwhile, the Island Trail is a loop path that will have you climbing over 200 steps in order to circle the island. Alternatively, you can head over to the visitor’s center where you can delve into exhibits about the area’s history, with the ruins still in sight. 

8. Take a Scenic Drive Along Oak Creek Canyon

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A sightseeing trip to Flagstaff wouldn’t be complete without a scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon . The smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon , Oak Creek is home to stunning rock formations and lush greenery. Along the drive, you’ll spot oak, sycamore, and walnut trees towering over the roadside, providing plenty of shade during your journey. But Oak Creek Canyon offers more to do than just a leisurely road trip . You can also enjoy a picnic with the family, make a splash at one of the two swimming holes, or go on a hike along the many hiking trails within the canyon.

9. Visit the Ruins of Wupatki National Monument

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The Wupatki National Monument is another national monument in Arizona to visit. Similar to the Walnut Canyon , it houses cliff dwellings of Native American tribes that resided in Northern Arizona. Located in a secluded area in the Colorado Plateau , the Wupatki National Monument offers a glimpse into how people lived nearly a thousand years ago. One of the best ways to explore the area is by going on a two-day backpacking trip where you can visit different prehistoric and historic archeological sites, including pueblo architecture that dates back to the 12th century.

10. Climb Up Humphreys Peak

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Undoubtedly, Arizona is among the most beautiful states in the USA and there’s no better way to marvel at its beauty than from the state’s highest point. Part of the San Francisco Peaks mountain range, Humphreys Peak stands over 12,000 feet. Getting here requires a steep and rigorous hike, but the panoramic views from the summit are certainly worth it. You can even see the Grand Canyon from the top!

For those who are not ready to take on Humphreys Peak on foot, you can always enjoy a scenic drive up the mountain. Though you won’t reach the peak, this route will greet you with a stunning display of wildflower meadows, pine forests, and aspen groves as you drive around the mountain.

11. Meet Santa During the North Pole Experience

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Looking for fun things to do in Flagstaff with kids this winter? Head over to Flagstaff’s Little America Hotel and take part in the North Pole Experience . 

This hands-on experience for kids starts with a trolley ride to the North Pole, deep within 500 acres of private forest that’s decorated with over a million twinkling Christmas lights. There, you’ll find Santa’s massive workshop where you can help elves make toys and Santa’s mail room where you can write personal letters to Father Christmas himself. And at the end of the ride, meet everyone’s favorite red-nosed reindeer and Santa himself at the sleigh hanger. 

12. Explore the Historic Downtown Flagstaff

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Whether you’re in search of the best places to eat in Flagstaff , top shopping boutiques, or local art galleries, Downtown Flagstaff is the place to be! The historic downtown area offers plenty of things to do in Flagstaff. Go on a culinary tour of the 85 restaurants and bars in the area, or visit the many art galleries and community events at Heritage Square and Wheeler Park. For the venturesome, there are historic haunted tours for you to discover all about the city’s eccentric and dark past. Here, your guides will take you to the darker side of the city while regaling you with tales of tragedies that will definitely spook you. 

13. Take a Stroll Through Buffalo Park

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Looking for free things to do in Flagstaff this weekend ? Then you’ll be glad that Buffalo Park in Flagstaff offers free admissions for everyone! The panoramic views of Mount Elden, San Francisco Peaks , and Dry Lake Hills, are sights to behold. The two-acre park also features picnic ramadas, a meadow, and mixed forest vegetation, making it one of the best parks in Flagstaff for families wanting to take a hike or spend a leisurely day out in nature. At nighttime, the park is popular among stargazers who want to witness the unadulterated beauty of the city’s night sky. So, make sure to add it to your list of things to do at night in Flagstaff !

14. See the Grand Falls

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Unlike most waterfalls in the world, Grand Falls in Arizona is famous for its extremely muddy flow. For this very reason, locals also call it Chocolate Falls. Make sure to add a trip to Grand Falls to your list of things to do in Flagstaff for spectacular viewing and photography opportunities! The roaring sound of the water is also remarkably mesmerizing for many. Here, you’ll be able to hike along the gully of the waterfalls or enjoy a picnic in one of the picnic areas or gazebos. Make sure to plan ahead, though, since the best time to witness the falls’ cascading waters is in springtime or after summer storms.

15. Take a Day Trip to Mormon Lake

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Enjoy a family day out at Arizona’s largest natural lake , just a few miles southeast of Flagstaff . Mormon Lake is an ideal destination for fishing, boating, and even water sports like windsurfing. Although it may occasionally dry up during droughts, there are still plenty of things to do in the area. 

Wildlife spotting and bird watching are highly popular activities. You can go horseback riding and mountain biking during summer, while snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are just some of the winter activities possible. Don’t forget to drop by the Mormon Lake Lodge, a steakhouse and saloon famous for its tasty grilled meats.

16. Party at Oktoberfest in Wheeler Park

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Attending Flagstaff’s Oktoberfest celebration is the best way to kick off fall in the city. Head over to Wheeler Park in the historic downtown area for traditional German food, live entertainment, fun games, bounce houses for kids, and, of course, delicious beer. This annual event welcomes guests of all ages, with kids aged 12 and below getting in for free! For furry owners, this is among the best things to do in Flagstaff with dogs too, since leashed pets are welcome at Wheelers Park.

17. Go Ziplining at Flagstaff Extreme

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On the hunt for exciting things to do in Flagstaff with kids ? Create thrilling memories at Flagstaff Extreme with the whole family. This outdoor experience features an adventure course with rope swings, hanging nets, and swinging bridges. If that doesn’t satisfy your adrenaline needs, soar alongside the canopies of Flagstaff’s landscape on zip lines that reach up to 80 feet in the air! As one of the cool places in Arizona, Flagstaff Extreme guarantees an exhilarating time.

18. Learn About Flagstaff History at Pioneer Museum

Photo from Pioneer Museum – Arizona Historical Society Flagstaff official Facebook page

Head over to the Pioneer Museum if you’re looking for things to do in Flagstaff that will teach you more about the city’s past. It houses several exhibits on anthropology, biology, geology, and even fine art. All of these allow visitors to take a step back in time and discover not only Flagstaff’s rich history and culture but also that of Northern Arizona.

Other popular activities here include walking through the heirloom gardens and marveling at historic automobiles and farm equipment from the 1910s. The Pioneer Museum is also where you’ll find a lung ventilator that saved the lives of polio victims during the 1950s.

19. Enjoy a Cold One at Flagstaff Brewery

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Looking for more laid-back things to do in Downtown Flagstaff with friends or a partner? After a day of outdoor adventure, enjoy a cold glass of beer and delicious food at the courtyard patio of Flagstaff Brewery . This brewing company and pub offers an impressive selection of hand-crafted beers, including local ales and German-style beers — all of which you can pair with burgers, fritters, wings, and other pub food staples.

20. Marvel at Sunset Crater Volcano

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Another geological wonder you won’t want to miss during your trip to Flagstaff is the Sunset Crater Volcano . Tucked within the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument , this cinder cone was formed over a thousand years ago. Today, visitors from across the state and country travel to the area to marvel at its jagged landscape. Walking along areas that once were flooded by lava and ash clouds is a great way of getting a closer look at remnants of the past volcanic eruption. Some of these include the base of the volcano, the field of cinders, or even the rough terrain of basalt.

21. Catch a Show at Orpheum Theater Flagstaff

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Visiting Orpheum Theater is one of the best couple activities to do within the city.  Be it operas, film premiers, comedy shows, concerts, or theatrical performances, the Orpheum Theater Flagstaff is the place to be if you want to catch the best entertainment shows in the city. A local landmark in the heart of downtown, this theater has been the city’s premier entertainment venue since its establishment in 1911. 

22. Visit Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Photo from Riordan Mansion State Historic Park official Facebook page

Looking for things to do in Arizona’s Flagstaff that are set indoors? Explore the halls of the Riordan Mansion, a historical site located right next door to Northern Arizona University . It’s one of the must-visit state parks in Arizona . Boasting an Arts & Crafts-style architecture, it served as the home of the Riordans, a local, prominent family that was involved in almost all ways of life in Arizona. Visitors can tour the historic home and its grounds which still houses artifacts, furniture, and other personal items belonging to the family.

23. Experience Nomad Living at Arizona Nordic Village

Photo from Arizona Nordic Village official Facebook page

The Arizona Nordic Village is the ultimate outdoor destination in Flagstaff, Arizona . Be it camping, hiking, horseback riding, or skiing, you can do plenty of activities here! The summer season welcomes hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders to the village grounds. Meanwhile, the winter months turn the area into a paradise for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The village even offers lessons for novice skiers who want to include learning a new skill on their list of winter vacation ideas .  On the whole, Arizona Nordic Village is a great camping destination, offering rustic yurts and cabins for guests (and their pets)!

24. Make a Splash at Flagstaff Aquaplex

Photo from City of Flagstaff official website

On the hunt for things to do in Flagstaff, AZ in summer ? Visit the Flagstaff Aquaplex, a recreation center that’s extremely popular among locals who want to beat the summer heat. This is among the fun places to go in Arizona while on a budget. Here you’ll find plenty of residents taking a refreshing lap around the indoor pool. Meanwhile, young ones can go down waterslides or practice their free throw moves at the poolside basketball hoops. On top of everything, the Aquaplex offers a number of activities, including water aerobic classes and aqua boot camps.  The Aquaplex is open year-round, so you can still add a visit to the center to your itinerary of things to do in Flagstaff regardless of the seasons . 

25. Stop by the Flagstaff Visitor Center

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Located along the city’s historic railroad station, the Flagstaff Visitor Center should be at the top of your must-visit places while in Flagstaff . It provides tourists with everything they need to know about the city! From the best places to eat to local events, and things to do in Flagstaff, the knowledgeable staff will help you make the most out of your getaway. What’s more, the Tudor-style building also houses a gift shop with a wide variety of Flagstaff souvenirs. This includes the likes of railroad-themed memorabilia and books about local history. If you’re lucky, you might get the chance to take part in special events hosted by the center, like art exhibits and book readings, and signings.

26. Discover More About Arizona at Northern Arizona Museum

Photo from Visit Arizona official  website 

Step back in time when you visit the Northern Arizona Museum .  Established in the late 1920s, this museum’s halls and exhibits showcase the Native American culture that helped establish not just Flagstaff, but also the rest of Northern Arizona.  They put out nine permanent exhibits on the region’s geology, anthropology and culture. Dinosaur skeletons, fossil footprints, ancient pottery, and native jewelry are only some of the artifacts displayed here. On top of these, the museum also hosts different rotating exhibits and annual events.

27. Follow the Mars Hill Trail 

Photo by dusanpetkovic1 on Adobe Stock

A hike along the Mars Hill Trail is among the best things to do in Flagstaff for many nature lovers. This hiking trail starts at Thorpe Park, located at the west end of downtown Flagstaff, and continues through the ponderosa pine forest up on the slopes of Mars Hill. Though relatively short (under two miles), this trail is tagged as an intermediate trail due to its steep elevations. B ack at Thorpe Park, there is also a tennis court near the trail with direct access to the Observatory Mesa Natural Area, a 2,000-acre forest ecosystem.

28. Grab a Bite at Dark Sky Brewing Company

Photo by Drazen on Adobe Stock

Another pub that’s worth checking out is Dark Sky Brewing Company . This micro-brewing company boasts a menu of craft beers made from exotic ingredients like kiwi, black tea, and even jalapenos. And with a forever rotating beer list, you’ll be surprised with what they have to offer at each given moment. Enjoy bar classic dishes such as pizzas, tacos, sausages, and fish and chips with your beer. 

Fun Things to Do in Flagstaff Today

W hat is Flagstaff best known for ? Answers will typically revolve around the city’s rich history, thriving culture, and many natural wonders. But besides these, the city’s bustling downtown scene is also one of the best features of Flagstaff. Regardless if you’re looking for exhilarating outdoor adventure or more relaxed activities for short day trips , this city has it all for you. 

So, if you’re wondering, is Flagstaff worth visiting? The answer is definitely a yes! Start planning your itinerary of things to do in Flagstaff now.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Arizona (AZ) » 15 Best Day Trips from Flagstaff

15 Best Day Trips from Flagstaff

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Northern Arizona, Flagstaff emerges as a captivating town, embraced by the majestic San Francisco Peaks mountain range that stretches across the enchanting Southwest region.

Immersing myself in Flagstaff’s rich historical tapestry, I was instantly captivated by the allure of this remarkable place, which beckons tourists like me, eager to soak up the essence of Southwestern culture. The town exudes an undeniable charm, weaving together tales of the past with a vibrant present.

But Flagstaff offers more than just a glimpse into history. It serves as a hub for adventure and exploration, enticing visitors with a plethora of exhilarating experiences. Cycling enthusiasts can pedal their way through scenic routes, while avid hikers find solace amidst the awe-inspiring trails that wind their way through this breathtaking terrain. And, in the winter months, the town transforms into a snowy wonderland, inviting skiing enthusiasts to carve their way down the slopes, a truly unique experience in the desert landscape.

Flagstaff’s strategic location also makes it an ideal gateway to Arizona’s natural wonders. Countless day trips await, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences that showcase the diversity of this remarkable region. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Flagstaff serves as a launchpad to delve deeper into Arizona’s cultural and natural treasures, providing a tapestry of adventures that will leave me yearning for more.

As I embarked on these remarkable day trips from Flagstaff, I was reminded of the boundless opportunities that await, each unveiling a new facet of Arizona’s allure.

So, join me as we embark on a journey in unraveling the wonders that lie just beyond its borders, eager to ignite our sense of wonder and leave an indelible mark on our souls. Here are 15 Best Day Trips for your next Flagstaff trip.

1. Grand Canyon

As I stood on the edge of the magnificent Grand Canyon, I was in awe of its unrivaled beauty, a site that has become a symbol of natural wonder in our country.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Canyon beckons me from Flagstaff, enticing me to embark on a day trip to witness its breathtaking vistas firsthand.

This awe-inspiring wonder is divided into two distinct sections. The South Rim, easily accessible and bustling with tourists, offers a plethora of viewpoints that allow me to gaze in awe at the vast expanse of the canyon and the meandering river below. Here, I found an array of amenities, from inviting restaurants to charming gift shops, ensuring that my visit is not only awe-inspiring but also comfortable.

However, if I wanted to seek a quieter and more tranquil experience, I would recommend the North Rim. While it requires a bit more effort to reach, the rewards are well worth it. Here, the crowds dissipate, and I was greeted by a serene ambiance, allowing me to immerse myself in the untouched beauty of this natural wonder. The peacefulness of the North Rim embraces me, offering a deeper connection to the grandeur that surrounds me.

Beyond the awe-inspiring viewpoints, the Grand Canyon offers an array of activities for the adventurous traveler. I chose to embark on one of the many hiking trails that wind through the canyon, taking me on a journey of discovery and bringing me closer to its raw magnificence.

With each step, I was captivated by the sheer magnitude and beauty of this natural masterpiece. Whether I am an experienced hiker or a casual explorer, the Grand Canyon caters to my sense of adventure, inviting me to witness its splendor from a different perspective.

Recommended tour : Grand Canyon Classic Sightseeing Tour Departing Flagstaff

2. Monument Valley

As I ventured into the enchanting realm of Monument Valley, I was immediately captivated by its otherworldly beauty. Nestled within the Navajo Nation, this awe-inspiring destination offers a unique experience that requires a special permit, setting it apart from the traditional national parks in the state.

Embracing the spirit of exploration, I set out to discover the hidden treasures of Monument Valley. With a variety of hiking trails and guided tours available, I embarked on a journey through the vast expanse of this sacred land, marveling at the colossal rock formations that have served as iconic backdrops in countless western movies.

For those seeking a truly extraordinary perspective, I opt to soar above the valley on a thrilling hot air balloon tour.

Alongside the natural wonders, I discovered a range of delightful dining options that showcase the flavors of the region, offering a delightful culinary journey to complement my explorations. In addition, the gift shops scattered throughout the area offer a chance to acquire unique mementos, allowing me to bring a piece of Monument Valley’s magic back home with me.

3. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a captivating attraction that truly deserves a day trip. As I stood there, I was awestruck by the mesmerizing sight of the Colorado River curving gracefully in the shape of a horseshoe. Countless breathtaking viewpoints allow me to fully appreciate the grandeur of this natural wonder.

To reach this spot from Route 89, I embarked on a hike. I made sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry an ample supply of water to stay hydrated throughout the journey. I realized that Horseshoe Bend offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region. What makes it even more appealing is that it tends to be slightly less crowded with tourists, adding to the overall tranquility and serenity of the place.

The best times to visit are undoubtedly at sunrise and sunset. Being there as the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues, casting a warm glow over the bend, is an awe-inspiring experience. The interplay of light and shadows creates a surreal atmosphere, leaving me spellbound by the sheer beauty of nature.

Alternatively, for a different perspective, one can choose to rent a raft and navigate the magnificent Colorado River. The nearby town of Page offers this option, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the river’s pristine waters and witness Horseshoe Bend from an entirely different vantage point.

Included in : Cathedral Slot Canyon Hike from Flagstaff

4. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon welcomes me with its enchanting series of narrow gaps, inviting me to freely explore the extraordinary landscape within the Navajo Nation. As I traversed the canyon’s winding paths, I was immersed in a realm unlike any other.

Photographers, in particular, will find themselves captivated by the canyon’s unique shapes and interplay of light. Every corner presents an opportunity to experiment and capture the mesmerizing beauty that abounds. The ever-changing angles and shadows create a playground for artistic expression, making Antelope Canyon a haven for photographers seeking to push their creative boundaries.

Moreover, the park offers more than just the narrow gaps. Bridges and water holes sprinkle the landscape, further enhancing its allure. These natural features add a touch of intrigue and diversity, allowing me to appreciate the canyon’s multifaceted charm.

In close proximity lies the renowned tourist hotspot of Lake Powell. Here, visitors can indulge in a myriad of water sports, immersing themselves in the pleasures of this expansive lake. The glistening waters provide the perfect backdrop for thrilling adventures and unforgettable memories. Additionally, the lakeside is adorned with barbecue sites, creating opportunities for delightful picnics and relaxing moments amidst nature’s splendor.

To cater to the needs of travelers, a plethora of restaurants and tourism facilities line the edge of the lake. Whether it’s savoring a delicious meal or seeking convenience and comfort, these establishments cater to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all who visit.

Recommended tour : Antelope Canyon Full-Day Tour from Flagstaff

In the heart of Arizona’s breathtaking natural beauty lies Sedona, a charming small city that captivates me from the moment I arrive.

The renowned Red Rocks, iconic rock formations, serve as a magnet for visitors. Connected to the city by a network of hiking trails, these majestic formations offer an adventure suitable for a range of abilities. One unique gem within Sedona is the Church of the Holy Cross. This remarkable chapel is an architectural marvel, skillfully built into the very rock formations that define the city. With its striking cross protruding against the backdrop of the Red Rocks, the church stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and the harmonious fusion of nature and spirituality.

While exploring the town, I discovered a myriad of options to indulge in. Bike hire places beckon me to embark on thrilling adventures, allowing me to explore the city and its surroundings at my own pace. The local restaurants and bars present a delightful array of flavors, inviting me to savor delectable dishes and unwind with a refreshing drink.

For those seeking aquatic experiences, Sedona offers the opportunity to rent kayaks and canoes, allowing me to navigate the serene waters of the city’s nearby lakes. Alternatively, I was able to pamper myself at one of the many spa facilities, indulging in rejuvenating treatments that restore both body and mind. Sedona truly embodies the spirit of relaxation and rejuvenation.

6. Williams

Another popular gateway for visitors to the Grand Canyon, Williams combines local culture with natural beauty to give a great mix of experiences.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Bill Williams Mountain, this charming town offers a wealth of experiences to explore. One option is to embark on a rewarding hike up the mountain, immersing myself in the pristine wilderness and marveling at the awe-inspiring views that unfold from the mountain’s summit. For those who prefer a more leisurely approach, a cautious drive up the mountain reveals the same breathtaking panoramas.

To delve deeper into the region’s rich history, I set off on a historic city walk that commences from the Visitor Center. As I stroll through the town’s streets, the walk serves as a captivating guide, unveiling the fascinating tales of the area’s past. With each step, I gained a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage that shapes Williams into the vibrant community it is today.

For a taste of the Wild West, I made my way to the renowned Wild West Junction. Here, a meticulously reconstructed Wild West-style village awaits, complete with a captivating museum and enticing restaurants. Stepping into this nostalgic setting, I was transported to a bygone era, where saloons, cowboys, and legends come to life. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West’s captivating history, while the restaurants offer a chance to savor delectable meals infused with the spirit of the Old West.

7. Petrified Forest

As I explored the vicinity of Flagstaff, I was intrigued by the Petrified Forest, a natural wonder that offers a unique and distinct experience unlike any other in the area.

This remarkable park tells a fascinating story, as it was once home to a flourishing forest that thrived in this very spot. However, the passage of time and the harsh forces of desertification have transformed the vibrant and ancient woodland into a hauntingly beautiful landscape. Now, the once-living trees have been petrified, leaving behind a mesmerizing array of vivid colors that paint the desolate scenery.

Traversing the diverse trails that meander throughout the forest, I discovered hidden treasures and secluded corners that beckon me to explore further. Each trail offers its own allure, promising new perspectives and encounters with the enchanting petrified remnants of the ancient forest.

Delving deeper into the park’s rich history, I encountered petroglyphs left behind by the ancient Native American tribes that once roamed these lands. These captivating rock carvings provide a glimpse into the past, offering a connection to the people who revered and inhabited this area long ago. Their presence adds a layer of mystique and cultural significance to the Petrified Forest, reminding me of the profound human connection to the natural world.

8. Prescott

Immersing myself in the vibrant Arizona culture, I find myself in the charming town that embodies the spirit of the Wild West—Prescott. Here, I discover a captivating blend of traditions and local atmosphere that makes for an authentic Arizona experience.

One of the town’s highlights is the world’s oldest rodeo, which unfolds right in the heart of Prescott. Witnessing this thrilling spectacle, I am swept up in the excitement and energy that permeates the air. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Wild West and offers a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the region.

As I wander the streets of Prescott, the numerous saloons lining the way add to the town’s distinctive Wild West vibe. The atmosphere is brimming with nostalgia, and I can almost imagine cowboys and outlaws from a bygone era sauntering through the doors. The saloons are inviting establishments that beckon me to step inside and embrace the spirit of the Old West.

For a different perspective, I embark on a paved hiking trail that grants me panoramic views over the town. This vantage point not only showcases Prescott’s charming architecture but also offers the opportunity to spot peregrine falcons during their mating season. The breathtaking scenery unfolds before me, inviting me to appreciate the town’s beauty from a unique and elevated perspective.

When it comes to dining, Prescott boasts a relaxed ambiance with restaurants that exude an unmistakable American style. The town’s specialty lies in grilled meats, which are savored with gusto by locals and visitors alike. These establishments offer a delightful culinary experience, satisfying the cravings of meat lovers and capturing the essence of Prescott’s culinary heritage.

Prescott envelopes me in its rich cultural tapestry, embracing the Wild West heritage and showcasing the essence of Arizona. From witnessing the oldest rodeo to strolling the saloon-lined streets, this town emanates an unparalleled charm. As I savor the stunning views from the hiking trails and indulge in the delectable grilled meats, I am reminded of the unique allure that Prescott holds as a gateway to Arizona’s cultural treasures.

As I delved into the rich history of Arizona, I was captivated by the story of Jerome. Once a bustling city, it fell into the depths of abandonment in the 1950s, becoming a ghost town. However, in recent times, the city has experienced a remarkable renaissance, thanks to the efforts of local artists and the influx of tourism, breathing new life into its streets.

An event that shouldn’t be missed is the Art Walk, which takes place on the first Saturday of each month. This vibrant gathering showcases the creativity of around twenty galleries, allowing me to immerse myself in a world of artistic wonder. The galleries unveil their finest artworks, inviting me to appreciate and even acquire these masterpieces. It’s an opportunity to engage with the local art scene and discover unique pieces that resonate with my artistic sensibilities.

Even when the Art Walk is not in session, Jerome continues to enthrall art enthusiasts like me. I have the freedom to explore the individual galleries at my own pace, tailoring my visit to suit my specific artistic interests. Each gallery offers a distinct experience, unveiling diverse styles, mediums, and narratives that showcase the immense talent of the local artists. Whether I’m drawn to paintings, sculptures, or other artistic expressions, Jerome satisfies my artistic cravings with its abundant offerings.

Beyond the realm of art, Jerome preserves a piece of its storied past through a small museum dedicated to the town’s previous copper mining industry. This educational and immersive space takes me on a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the town’s industrial heritage. I discovered the stories of the miners who toiled in the depths of the earth, shaping the town’s identity and leaving an indelible mark on its history.

10. Phoenix

As an Arizona travel enthusiast, I can proudly say that Phoenix, the state capital and the sixth-largest city in the country, has a plethora of attractions to offer tourists, even if they are only visiting for a day.

One must-visit destination is the Desert Botanical Gardens, where vibrant plant life thrives in this arid region. The gardens showcase an incredible display of colors and species, providing a fascinating glimpse into the unique flora of the desert.

For those seeking a dose of culture, Phoenix is home to numerous art galleries and museums that cater to all interests. Whether you appreciate contemporary art or prefer to explore historical exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy and be inspired by.

Food enthusiasts will delight in the city’s abundance of outstanding Mexican restaurants. Within Phoenix’s vibrant suburbs, you can savor the best of southwestern cuisine, from mouthwatering tacos to flavorful enchiladas. The culinary scene here is diverse and exciting, offering a delectable array of options for every palate.

Active travelers will find plenty of opportunities to stay active and explore the outdoors. Phoenix boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, allowing visitors to soak in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Additionally, bike rental facilities are readily available, allowing you to pedal your way through the city and discover its hidden gems at your own pace. If you’re a sports enthusiast, you’re in luck—Phoenix hosts regular sporting events, offering thrilling experiences for fans of various disciplines.

11. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

I had the opportunity to visit Tonto Natural Bridge, a remarkable travertine natural bridge that offers stunning views from both the top and the bottom. To fully appreciate the beauty of this natural wonder from below, it’s important to be in good physical condition. However, even if you prefer to stay on the top, you can still enjoy breathtaking vistas.

What makes Tonto Natural Bridge even more captivating is the presence of additional trails adorned with man-made bridges. These trails lead you through diverse landscapes, unveiling more hidden gems along the way. Exploring these paths allows you to immerse yourself in the unique natural surroundings and marvel at the wonders of the area.

To enhance your understanding of the geological significance of the natural bridge, as well as to delve into the intriguing aspects of Arizona’s climate and the cultural history of the park, make sure to visit the historic lodge within the state park. Inside, you can engage in an educational experience, learning fascinating details about the formation of the natural bridge and the various forces that have shaped the region over time. Additionally, the lodge offers insights into the rich cultural heritage that is intertwined with the park’s history.

12. Las Vegas

As an avid traveler, I had the chance to embark on a day trip (or even an overnight adventure) from Flagstaff to the renowned entertainment capital of the United States: Las Vegas. Although it’s a bit further away compared to other destinations, it’s definitely worth the journey.

While Las Vegas is most renowned for its dazzling casinos and vibrant bars, it offers far more than meets the eye, even for the casual tourist. As I strolled along the iconic main strip, I was captivated by the meticulous recreations of famous world monuments. From the towering Eiffel Tower to the majestic Sydney Opera House and the iconic Statue of Liberty, Las Vegas’s attention to detail truly transported me to different corners of the globe.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, the city is a hub of captivating shows and performances. Every night, a multitude of options awaits, catering to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of mesmerizing magic shows, awe-inspiring acrobatics, or world-class musical performances, Las Vegas has it all. The city’s dining scene is also expanding rapidly, competing with some of the most notable culinary destinations in the United States. From Michelin-starred restaurants helmed by renowned chefs to unique and innovative dining experiences, food enthusiasts will find their taste buds tantalized by the diverse offerings.

Surprisingly, Las Vegas also boasts some breathtaking natural sites in its vicinity. For those seeking a break from the bustling cityscape, there are hiking trails that lead to stunning natural wonders. These trails allow you to reconnect with nature, providing a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of the city.

13. Navajo Nation

Having had the opportunity to explore the Navajo Nation, I discovered that this vast land not only boasts breathtaking natural beauty but also offers a rich immersion into Native American culture, all within the span of a day trip.

One must-visit destination is the Hubbell Trading Post National Historic site, which provides a unique opportunity to connect with Navajo people. Here, I had the pleasure of engaging with members of the Navajo community, learning about their traditions, and gaining insights into their way of life. The trading post itself is a treasure trove of traditional handicrafts and goods, making it the perfect place to acquire authentic pieces that showcase the Navajo artistic heritage.

In addition to the Hubbell Trading Post, many towns within the Navajo Nation reserve feature galleries that proudly display local crafts. These galleries not only offer a chance to admire the intricate craftsmanship but also provide a deeper understanding of the cultural significance and context behind these art forms. It was truly enlightening to witness the connection between the crafts and the stories they carry, giving me a greater appreciation for the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Navajo people.

Spanning across Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah, the Navajo Nation presents an opportunity to explore other remarkable sites beyond cultural immersion. For instance, Ship Rock stands as a majestic geological formation, captivating with its towering presence. Additionally, a visit to the Four Corners Monument, where all four states meet, allows you to stand in multiple places simultaneously, serving as a unique symbol of geographical significance and cultural intersection.

14. Apache Sitgreaves National Forest

During my travels in the southwest, I had the privilege of exploring the captivating Apache Sitgreaves National Forest—a true gem in this arid region, characterized by its lush forests and serene cold water lakes.

The forest offers an abundance of hiking trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty either independently or with the guidance of a knowledgeable local. As I ventured along the trails, I was enchanted by the diverse landscapes that unfolded before me. It’s important to note that the terrain can be quite mountainous in certain areas, so it’s advisable to bring ample water and embark on hikes that match your fitness level, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

For those willing to take on the mountains, the reward is beyond words. Reaching the summits grants you breathtaking panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a unique vantage point over the entire forest. I found myself captivated by the sweeping vistas, a true testament to the natural wonders preserved within the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest.

The forest is also home to stunning cold water lakes, inviting visitors to indulge in the joy of swimming. With the appropriate permit, you can even bring along a kayak, allowing you to explore the tranquil waters and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. It’s an ideal way to connect with nature and embrace the peacefulness that the lakes offer.

Moreover, the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest is a popular destination for obtaining Christmas trees, adding to its allure and making it a sought-after spot during the holiday season. The joy of selecting and bringing home a beautiful tree from this picturesque forest is an experience that many cherish.

15. Camp Verde

As an Arizona adventurer, I had the pleasure of exploring Camp Verde—a small town that seamlessly combines the state’s main attractions, offering a multitude of exciting experiences and intriguing sites.

One of the highlights of Camp Verde is the opportunity to visit archaeological cities that bear witness to the rich history of the native Hohokam people. These ancient sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to delve into the captivating legacy left behind by this indigenous culture. Exploring these archaeological treasures sheds light on the ancient history of the region, providing a deeper understanding of the land’s cultural roots.

In addition to the native history, Camp Verde also offers heritage attractions that provide insights into the history of the white settlers who arrived in the area. These attractions offer a glimpse into the pioneering spirit and the challenges faced by early settlers, allowing you to immerse yourself in the layered history of the town and its surrounding region.

For outdoor enthusiasts like myself, Camp Verde presents an array of options for adventure. Renting a kayak and taking on the Verde River is an exhilarating choice, allowing you to navigate the scenic waterways and embrace the beauty of the surrounding nature. The town is also surrounded by stunning hiking trails, offering opportunities for exploration and providing breathtaking views along the way. After a day of outdoor activities, the town center awaits with its diverse range of restaurants and bars, ensuring you are well-fed and entertained.

15 Best Day Trips from Flagstaff:

• Grand Canyon
• Monument Valley
• Horseshoe Bend
• Antelope Canyon
• Petrified Forest
• Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
• Navajo Nation
• Apache Sitgreaves National Forest

CNN just named this Arizona city one of America's best towns to visit. Here's why

For many travelers, the ideal summer vacation spot offers unique character, an abundance of things to see and do, and little to no crowds.

That sentiment explains why CNN Travel compiled a new list of U.S. places where people can avoid "the elbow-to-elbow crowds of the big tourist cities." Its inaugural list of 10 cities includes one in Arizona, a popular stopover point on the way to the Grand Canyon.

CNN's list, called America's Best Towns to Visit in 2024, highlights smaller cities. Richmond, Virginia, was ranked No. 1 for its cultural and dining scenes and "intriguing" neighborhoods.

CNN's travel contributors selected the cities based on their attractions, dining, nightlife, culture, sense of identity, proximity to other interesting spots and wow factor.

New to the top 10 city for this year: a beloved restaurant chain arrived in April , and a West Coast flight from its airport is coming in the fall .

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Why Flagstaff is one of CNN's America's Best Towns to Visit in 2024

Flagstaff, a northern Arizona city rich in ponderosa pine forests and overlooking the state's tallest mountain peak, is ranked No. 6 on CNN's list of America's Best Towns to Visit.

CNN's contributors gave Flagstaff high marks for its outdoor experiences, especially stargazing . They cited Flagstaff's status as an International Dark Sky City for its protection of the night sky from light pollution, as well as Lowell Observatory, the astronomy hub where Pluto was discovered in 1930.

They said the city's connection to outer space doesn't end there, with a nod to its proximity to Meteor Crater about 45 minutes east in Winslow. The natural landmark, one of The Arizona Republic's uniquely Arizona road trip destinations , preserves the site where a meteorite struck the Earth's surface about 50,000 years ago.

Flagstaff's proximity to Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks creates plentiful adventure opportunities, including skiing and snowboarding. Arizona Snowbowl at Humphreys Peak (elevation 12,633 feet), which CNN described as "ground zero for Flagstaff's winter sports scene," extended its season this year due to above-average snowfall, including its first-ever June dates .

Flagstaff is about 80 miles south of the Grand Canyon, one of America's most famous adventure spots.

Flagstaff is also a key stop on historic Route 66, where the city's historic downtown has evolved into a shopping, dining and entertainment hub.

CNN's America's Best Towns to Visit 2024

• Richmond, Virginia.
• Providence, Rhode Island.
• Tacoma, Washington.
• Portland, Maine.
• San Luis Obispo, California.
• Macon, Georgia.
• Grand Rapids, Michigan.
• Knoxville, Tennessee.
• Duluth, Minnesota.

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

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Flagstaff, ariz. lands on cnn's list of best travel destinations.

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. , June 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CNN Travel editors have selected Flagstaff, Ariz. , which is nestled in the world's largest ponderosa pine forest along historic Route 66 just 80 miles from Grand Canyon National Park , as one of the 10 best places to visit in the nation.

The high-elevation mountain town earned the accolade from CNN  in part thanks to its designation as the first international dark-sky city, but CNN's list of reasons to visit Flagstaff was much longer. Start with the pine forest setting with endless views of the state's tallest peaks. Combine that with cultural attractions such as Museum of Northern Arizona and national monuments such as Wupatki and Walnut Canyon, and Flagstaff offers plenty of things to do for an extended visit.

"A stark contrast to the desert cities of southern Arizona , Flagstaff offers cooler temperatures, fresh mountain air and a growing reputation for outdoor recreation ranging from winter skiing to summertime hiking, biking and trail running," CNN reported.

The news organization also gave a nod to Flagstaff's burgeoning culinary scene, with more than 200 restaurants, pubs, wine bars and eight award-winning craft breweries.

"The renaissance of downtown  Flagstaff  brought new life to its old brick buildings in the form of hip new places to eat, drink and sleep," CNN continued.

Flagstaff also earned high marks for Lowell Observatory, the hilltop research center where Pluto was discovered in 1930, and the city's ongoing commitment to protecting the night sky.

CNN videographers captured stunning footage of the clear night sky from Flagstaff's Buffalo Park, and highlighted other attractions including Meteor Crater, east of the city.

CNN editors said they focused on smaller towns for this year's list, with an emphasis on character.

"They're spread across the country and serve as a reminder of what's great about the United States : communities committed to making their towns better," CNN wrote. "You'll see that spirit in revitalized neighborhoods and downtowns and in residents who have put all their passion, creativity and know-how into endeavors that feed souls and bellies."

The accolade is the second time this year a national publication has given Flagstaff high marks among places to visit, with USA Today recently naming the city the No. 1 most dog-friendly travel destination in the country .

Flagstaff is a four-season destination offering a variety of outdoor activities and serving as a hub to Grand Canyon and seven other national parks and monuments. Summer through fall offer a variety of festivals and special events. For more information, visit DiscoverFlagstaff.com and order a free visitor guide.

Media Contact: Discover Flagstaff Ryan Randazzo 211 W. Aspen | Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 928.213.2915 | mobile 928.814.9623 [email protected]  | discoverflagstaff.com

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/flagstaff-ariz-lands-on-cnns-list-of-best-travel-destinations-302182693.html

SOURCE Discover Flagstaff

Fourth of July 2024 in Arizona: Fireworks, rodeos and lots of free fun

This year the Fourth of July falls on a Thursday. For a fortunate few that means a four-day weekend. And anyone in metro Phoenix who is blessed with a string of summer days off immediately starts planning where they can spend them.

This is the perfect chance for a memorable road trip. 

Don’t squander such a golden opportunity to get out and explore Arizona. Independence Day celebrations are taking place in towns all over the state. Start there and then imagine all the other things you can do once you’re in Prescott, Flagstaff, Mogollon Rim Country or the White Mountains. 

No matter what your direction, keep our forests safe. Please obey all fire restrictions. Let’s get through the holiday generating nothing but great memories.

In Flag, they tend to do Independence Day a little differently. It starts with hundreds of people running through the early morning streets of downtown, many of them in costume. And that’s before the actual parade gets going.

The Downtown Mile is like a parade set to fast forward. Starting at 6:30 a.m. July 4, runners start off in waves, sprinting or jogging through the streets much to the delight of spectators. Some are serious competitors and some are festively adorned. But everyone is there for a good time.   

At 9 a.m., the traditional parade follows the same route through the historic downtown. Perhaps any stragglers from the Downtown Mile will be given a recorder and inducted into the ranks of a marching band. 

Also on July 4, the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra performs a family-friendly patriotic pops concert at the Pepsi Amphitheater in Forth Tuthill County Park. The event begins at 3 p.m. and is free. Bring lawn chairs and blankets.

The Downtown Street Faire takes place in Heritage Square July 4-5. It features live music, a photo booth, face painters and more. Hours are 1:30-8 p.m. Thursday and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday. 

Everything turns arty in Flag on July 5. First Friday Art Walk goes from 5-9 p.m. It’s a monthly street party when galleries and businesses stay open with special exhibitions, performances and live music.

Of course, the centerpiece attraction of the weekend is the always popular Art in the Park. The juried arts and crafts festival features more than 70 artists from across the Southwest.

The event takes place on the big shady lawn of Wheeler Park downtown July 5-7. Bands perform through each day, food vendors are on hand and an expansive beer garden serves local and regional brews. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

Details:  www.flagstaffarizona.org .  

Show Low Fourth of July events

Cool off in the White Mountains where the Show Low celebration goes on all day July 4.

The parade begins at 9 a.m. as it rolls along the Deuce of Clubs main drag. As soon as the parade wraps up, SplashZone in Frontier Park gets going. Sprinklers and fire hoses soak down a couple of soccer fields and they break out the slip-and-slides and other water toys.

You’ll just have time to dry off for FreedomFest, which starts at 3 p.m. at Show Low High School. There will be food trucks, live music, games and bounce houses. New this year is the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, highlighting logging skills in a thrilling spectacle.

Fireworks are scheduled at 9 p.m. All events are free, except the Fun Zone where unlimited ride wristbands costs $5.

Details:  928-532-4000,  www.showlowaz.gov .

Taylor 4th of July rodeo and anvil firing

The festivities continue all weekend in the White Mountains with Taylor dishing up a little Old West charm. It all happens Friday and Saturday, July 5-6, at Taylor Rodeo Park, including the unique tradition of anvil launching, a night rodeo and fireworks. An arts and crafts show complete with food vendors takes place both days.

On Friday, calf roping starts at noon and cowboy poetry and country music kick off at 7 p.m. But plan on getting an early start because the firing of the anvil kicks things off with a thunderclap at 5 a.m. They pack an anvil with black powder, light the fuse, and watch it fly. That’s followed by a pancake breakfast and barrel racing events.

The 70th annual Taylor Night Rodeo starts at 7 p.m. Friday, fireworks are at 9 p.m. and the evening ends with a dance at the pavilion at 9:30. All events are free, except the night rodeo — those tickets are $10.

Details:  928-536-4331,  www.snowflaketaylorchamber.org .

Payson Fourth of July 2024

Fireworks exploding above Green Valley Lake in Payson will make a gorgeous holiday memory.

On Thursday, July 4, families start gathering at Green Valley Park for a full slate of lawn and water games that begin at 1 p.m. There will be tug of war, cornhole, Connect 4, slip-and-slides and other water games.  A new splash pad was added to the playground in June.

Food trucks and vendors will also be on hand. They start dishing up free watermelon (while supplies last) at 4 p.m., just as the band takes the stage. But don’t get too full because the pie-eating contest is open to hungry adults and kids alike. It starts at 6 p.m.

Fireworks go off at 9, high above the water. Since parking is limited, a shuttle service runs from Payson High School to Green Valley Park starting at noon.

Details:  928-472-5110,  www.paysonrimcountry.com .

Prescott 4th of July 2024

The World’s Oldest Rodeo in Prescott gets a jump on the holiday, with Prescott Frontier Days starting July 1 and running through July 7 at Prescott Rodeo Grounds. This is Mardi Gras for the bowlegged. For a complete schedule of events, check the website. 

The World’s Oldest Rodeo Parade streams through downtown past Courthouse Plaza beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 6. 

Courthouse Plaza will be bustling all weekend with the Prescott Rodeo Days Art & Crafts Show. The juried art show spreads out beneath the shady elms and features paintings, pottery, jewelry, metal works, home décor and plenty more. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.  www.worldsoldestrodeo.com .

There’s a big party at Watson Lake Park on July 4, and that’s where the fireworks will go off. It’s a full day of revelry from 1-10 p.m. with food vendors, live music, water slides and a beer garden. Fireworks light up the sky above the lake at 9.

General admission is free. The activity zone with water slides, inflatables, face painting and a photo booth is $30. Early entry and VIP experiences are available for a fee. Free parking and shuttle at Pioneer Park.

Details:  For information and to purchase tickets in advance, visit  www.prescottsfourth.com .

Prescott Valley Fourth of July fireworks

Enjoy a great day of family fun at Prescott Valley Civic Center when they unleash their Red, White, and Boom extravaganza.

The festivities start at 3 p.m. July 4 and include carnival rides, water bounce houses, food trucks, live music and a big boom-boom-boom at the end with the fireworks. Best part: It’s all free, except the food, of course. Better get there early for a good spot.

Details:  928-759-3090, www.prescottvalley-az.gov .

Find the reporter at  www.rogernaylor.com .  Or follow him on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/RogerNaylorinAZ  or Twitter @AZRogerNaylor.

Here’s why CNN Travel named Knoxville one of America's best towns to visit in 2024

The Scruffy City is a cool place to be, but don’t just take our word for it. CNN said the same thing when choosing Knoxville as one of best towns to visit in the United States.

CNN Travel's inaugural “America’s Best Towns to Visit” highlights 10 smaller cities across the country that should be at the top of everyone’s summer travel list. Landing at No. 9, Knoxville made the list because of its friendly down-to-earth vibe, great live music, food, scenery and outdoor activities.

How did Knoxville become so cool? By doing its own thing, CNN Travel said.

“Did you know this eastern Tennessee city also offers a burgeoning music scene (watch out Nashville and Memphis!), delightful classic theaters and delicious eats? And there’s a 1,500-acre Urban Wilderness for easy access to outdoor adventure,” CNN Travel writes.

What makes Knoxville cool to visit?

The draw to Knoxville goes beyond the Sunsphere, which helps create a distinctive skyline in Knoxville − or the sea of orange and white during University of Tennessee game days, CNN Travel notes.

The following businesses and amenities were among the highlights featured in the CNN piece:

• Abridged Beer Company
• First Friday
• Ijams Nature Center
• Knoxville Area Brewers Association and 27 local breweries
• Market Square
• The Old City
• Osteria Stella and Brother Wolf
• Smokies stadium under construction
• Tennessee Theatre
• Xul Beer Company

Particular attention was placed on Knoxville’s growing music scene, including the popular Big Ears Festival. People come from all over the U.S. and overseas to attend Big Ears, which offers performances of diverse genres in multiple downtown venues, including big theaters and hole-in-the-wall bars.

Knoxville recommendations by CNN Travel

CNN Travel noted these places as essential for anyone visiting Knoxville:

• Eat: At Osteria Stella, a hip Italian eatery from Knoxville dining royalty
• Drink: At Brother Wolf, a sophisticated Italian-themed aperitivo bar
• Stay: At The Tennessean, a luxury hotel in an ultra-modern setting
• Play: In Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness for outdoor adventures in the city’s green heart

America’s Best Towns to Visit 2024 by CNN Travel

• Richmond, Virginia
• Providence, Rhode Island
• Tacoma, Washington
• Portland, Maine
• San Luis Obispo, California
• Flagstaff, Arizona
• Macon, Georgia
• Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Knoxville, Tennessee
• Duluth, Minnesota

CNN Travel chose the 10 cities after evaluating nominations by a network of contributors. CNN said cities were evaluated based on their attractions, food and beverage offerings, nightlife and cultural scene, sense of identity, lodging options, proximity to other interesting spots, and wow factor.

Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email  [email protected] . On X, formerly known as Twitter  @dturner1208 .  

Support strong local journalism by subscribing at  knoxnews.com/subscribe .