Top 10 Things to Do in Flagstaff AZ
By Emily Johnson
Introduction
Hi, I’m Emily and I recently spent a week in Flagstaff, AZ. I was blown away by the natural beauty, friendly locals, and endless activities to do in this charming mountain town. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Flagstaff has something for everyone. In this article, I will share my top 10 things to do in Flagstaff AZ.
Top Curiosities and Interesting Information About Flagstaff, AZ
- Flagstaff is located in northern Arizona, at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level.
- The city is surrounded by the Coconino National Forest and is only a short drive away from the Grand Canyon.
- Flagstaff is home to Northern Arizona University and Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered in 1930.
- The city has a rich history, dating back to the 1800s when it was a railroad town and later a Route 66 stop.
- Flagstaff is known for its dark skies and is a popular destination for stargazing.
Top 10 Things to Do in Flagstaff AZ
Hike in the Coconino National Forest
I highly recommend exploring the Coconino National Forest, which surrounds Flagstaff. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy to strenuous. My favorite was the Humphreys Peak Trail, a challenging 10-mile round trip hike to the highest peak in Arizona. The views from the top are breathtaking.
Visit the Grand Canyon
No trip to Flagstaff is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon. It’s only a 90-minute drive from Flagstaff and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. I suggest taking a guided tour or hiking one of the trails for an unforgettable experience.
Explore Historic Downtown Flagstaff
Downtown Flagstaff is full of charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. I recommend taking a stroll down Route 66 and visiting the Museum of Northern Arizona and the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park.
Go Stargazing at Lowell Observatory
Flagstaff is known for its dark skies and is home to the famous Lowell Observatory. I recommend taking a guided tour and viewing the stars through one of the telescopes. It’s truly a magical experience.
Visit Wupatki National Monument
Wupatki National Monument is a short drive from Flagstaff and is home to ancient Puebloan ruins. I suggest taking a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the people who lived there.
Take a Scenic Drive on the San Francisco Peaks Loop
The San Francisco Peaks Loop is a 44-mile scenic drive that takes you through the Coconino National Forest and offers stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks. I recommend stopping at the Arizona Snowbowl to take in the views and enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
Go Skiing or Snowboarding at Arizona Snowbowl
Arizona Snowbowl is a ski resort located just outside of Flagstaff. It’s the perfect place to go skiing or snowboarding in the winter months. I suggest taking a lesson if you’re a beginner or trying out the terrain park if you’re more advanced.
Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona
The Museum of Northern Arizona is located in Flagstaff and showcases the natural and cultural history of the Colorado Plateau. I recommend taking a guided tour and checking out the exhibits on Native American art and culture.
Go on a Food Tour
Flagstaff has a vibrant food scene, with many locally-owned restaurants and breweries. I suggest going on a food tour to try some of the best dishes and drinks in town. My favorite was the Flagstaff Food Tour, which takes you to six different restaurants in downtown Flagstaff.
Go on a Guided Jeep Tour
If you’re looking for an adventure, I recommend going on a guided Jeep tour. There are many companies in Flagstaff that offer tours through the Coconino National Forest and other nearby areas. I went on the Broken Arrow Tour with Pink Jeep Tours and it was a thrilling experience.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Flagstaff?
- The best time to visit Flagstaff is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. The summer months can be hot and crowded, and the winter months can be cold and snowy.
- What is the elevation of Flagstaff?
- Flagstaff is located at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level.
- What is there to do in Flagstaff besides hiking and stargazing?
- Flagstaff has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many galleries and museums to explore. There are also many locally-owned shops and restaurants to check out.