Best things to do in Flagstaff
Find out more about those top places in Flagstaff
Flagstaff: The Wild West’s Hidden Gem and Ultimate Travel Guide
Tucked just south of the Grand Canyon National Park and surrounded by the lush Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff is one of the best-kept secrets in the American West. Often overlooked in favor of more famous destinations, this charming small city has a lot to offer—whether you’re into history, hiking, or just looking for a laid-back escape with a bohemian vibe. If you’ve ever wondered where to find Wild West nostalgia mixed with modern flair, look no further. Flagstaff is calling!
Historic Downtown Flagstaff: A Step Back in Time
Let’s kick off with Flagstaff’s historic downtown, where the spirit of the Wild West is still alive and well. This area is packed with Victorian-era buildings that sprouted up after the arrival of the Continental Railway in 1882. Today, these old wooden facades have been lovingly restored and repurposed into boutique hotels, farm-to-table restaurants, and microbreweries that give the town a quirky, yet refined, feel. Don’t be surprised if you see a cowboy hat next to a craft IPA—Flagstaff knows how to blend the old and the new.
Take a stroll down Route 66, the iconic highway that passes through the heart of the city, where you can stop for local coffee or pick up some Western-inspired souvenirs. If you’re looking for a touch of history, Heritage Square is a must-see. It’s like stepping into a time machine, with wooden sidewalks and old-timey charm. For a fun twist, try spotting the hidden wild west murals scattered around town.
Top Attractions: Hiking, Skiing, and Stellar Scenery
But Flagstaff is much more than just its downtown allure. This little desert gem is surrounded by the magnificent Coconino National Forest, offering a bounty of outdoor adventures. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic spot to unwind, the nearby San Francisco Peaks are perfect for sightseeing and hiking.
Hiking enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise with trails winding through the towering Ponderosa pines and across mountain ridges with panoramic views that will make your camera work overtime. The Humphreys Peak Trail, which leads to the highest point in Arizona, is a bucket-list hike for many, and the views from the summit are, well… Instagram-worthy.
And if you're visiting in the winter, don't worry—Flagstaff has you covered for that snowy adventure you’ve been dreaming of. The nearby Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort offers dozens of miles of ski runs, plus snowboarding, and a gorgeous alpine backdrop that could have come straight out of a postcard. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, there's no shortage of things to do when the snow starts to fall.
Flagstaff’s Bohemian Buzz: The College Town Vibe
Flagstaff isn’t just a playground for nature lovers—it also has a bit of a bohemian vibe thanks to Northern Arizona University (NAU) being based right here. The influx of students keeps the town buzzing with youthful energy, and you’ll find plenty of hip coffee shops, craft beer breweries, and art galleries to check out between your outdoor adventures.
The historic downtown area is filled with quirky spots to enjoy a craft beer (try the local favorites like Historic Brewing Company or Mother Road Brewing), or grab a bite at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants. Don’t miss out on trying a classic Southwestern dish—perhaps something with green chile to spice things up.
Stargazing and Scenic Views: Flagstaff’s Starry, Starry Nights
But there’s something else about Flagstaff that really sets it apart—its dark skies. Flagstaff is actually a designated International Dark Sky City, which means the stargazing here is absolutely incredible. Whether you're an avid astronomer or just someone who enjoys looking up at a night sky that’s actually visible, Flagstaff will not disappoint. The town even has its own Lowell Observatory, where you can peer through telescopes and learn about the stars while the rest of the world is asleep.
If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way, or—if you’re really into stargazing—plan a visit during the annual Star Party for some of the best telescopic views around. Be sure to pack a blanket, because those clear skies will leave you starstruck!
Flagstaff: The Wild West Meets the Modern World
In short, Flagstaff is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a blend of history, adventure, and quirky charm. It might not have the fame of its bigger cousins like Sedona or Grand Canyon, but that’s part of the fun! You can enjoy all the top attractions—like hiking, skiing, and stargazing—without the overwhelming crowds.
So if you’re looking for a town with a rich history, bohemian energy, and a few wild west thrills thrown in for good measure, make Flagstaff your next destination. Whether you’re exploring Victorian buildings or trekking up San Francisco Peaks, this city has a way of making you feel like you’ve stumbled upon the best-kept secret in the West. Just don’t tell too many people—we like it that way.
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Grand Canyon
A tour around the Grand Canyon can only be taken by the brave and will not be quickly forgotten. The Grand Canyon that we have today is a result of millions of years of relentless work of nature. It has a very steep side which is as a result of the action of the Colorado River which makes this tour, not for the faint of heart.
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Wupatki National Monument
The native American that lived in what we call north-central Arizona (because that is definitely not what the native Americans called it) built many structures that have survived countless times and seasons. Although they are already in ruins, one will still be able to make out the structures and make guesses at what they might have been used for. This Monument was opened as a tourist attraction site by the Nation Park Service.
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Historic Downtown and Visitors Center
This may not be a necessarily big place but the Downtown and Visitors Center has many stories to tell. Every part of the place has served as a venue one time or another where lives were changed forever.
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Lowell Observatory
This astronomical observatory is among the oldest in all the United States of America. It was established in 1894 and was named as a National Historic Landmark in 1965. As a part of its history, this was where Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto.
