10 Best Things to do in Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is one of the most visited cities in Arizona. There are many things to do in Flagstaff, which makes it an ideal holiday destination. After doing much research about Flagstaff, I was able to gather all this information. Flagstaff is present at an elevation of 7000 feet, and due to this, you can enjoy all four seasons here. It is present on the famous ‘Route 66’. Flagstaff is a must-see place in your Arizona itinerary because of its: strong historical background, dwellings of ancient people, national monuments and parks, and many shopping and noshing centers.

Moreover, Flagstaff is also the home of Northern Arizona University which makes it a student hub. If you are looking for a place to escape the Arizonian heat, then Flagstaff is the right place for you. With its contrasting four seasons, you can enjoy holidays year-round in Flagstaff. Out of the many things to do in Flagstaff, enjoying world-class lodging facilities is the best. In Flagstaff, you can find every kind of hotel that you can dream of. This city offers the best hotels in every price range, and I have read that the hotels in Flagstaff are really welcoming. Therefore, I will personally say that no matter what your traveling style is you’ll find a hotel according to your taste in Flagstaff.

Other than lodging, you can find top-notch eateries in Flagstaff as well. After thoroughly researching about Flagstaff, I can tell you that it is a foodie’s heaven. There are almost 97 restaurants here that offer mouthwatering cuisines. Some of the most famous ones that I recommend are; Shift FLG, Macy’s European Coffeehouse and Bakery, Crillo Latin Kitchen, Tourist Home All-day Café, Fat Olives, and many more.

Fun things to do in Flagstaff Arizona:

The things to do in Flagstaff are countless. Moreover, out of these activities, we are describing some of the most fun things that you can do here in Flagstaff. Some of the fun things to do in Flagstaff Az are:

1. Skiing at Arizona Snowbowl:

Yes, you read it right skiing is possible in Arizona! Because of Flagstaff’s amazing elevation, it is one of the snowiest cities in the US. You can enjoy the most extended skiing season here in Snowbowl and can choose from the 55 trails to go for skiing. It is one of the flagstaff things to do. Moreover, you can also enjoy the mesmerizing scenic beauty of Flagstaff if you take the chairlift of this skiing resort. However, this opportunity is only valid during the warmer months when the snow is melting.

2. Hiking and Biking trails in Buffalo Park:

Out of the many fun things to do in Flagstaff, one going for hiking and biking. Buffalo park is full of scenic trails that are ideal for hiking and biking. One of the flagstaff attractions is that you can see the peaks of San Francisco from here in Buffalo park.

3. North Pole Experience:

The North Pole Experience is an exciting destination for kids; it is one of the things to see in Flagstaff. Once you go there, I can ensure that you will never forget this magical experience. The adventure starts with a trolley ride in the middle of a forest that enters into Santa’s workshop after passing through a magical portal. Inside the workshop, you will experience working with elves to make Christmas gifts. North Pole Experience is one of those places which are a must-see in my flagstaff itinerary. So, I recommend that you should definitely visit it too.

4. Extreme Adventure Course, Flagstaff:

If you love adventure and don’t know what to do in Flagstaff, then this is the perfect place for you. The extreme adventure course is the place to get your adrenaline rushing. You can test your outdoor survival skills here with the zipline and the Flagstaff Extreme FLG X. This adventure park in the pine forests of Flagstaff should be a must-see in your things to do in flagstaff itinerary.

5. River Rafting in Grand Canyon:

Another fun-loving thing that you should do while in Flagstaff is to go river rafting. Some companies offer river rafting services in the Colorado River. Once you’re there, I recommend that you should definitely try this fantastic sport. It is one of the Flagstaff activities in things to do in the flagstaff list that you must do.

6. Wheeler Park:

If you are visiting the flagstaff center, then don’t forget to see the wheeler’s park which is at a few minutes’ walk from there. Wheelers park is an excellent place for spending time outdoors. There are many events ongoing here like art festivals, and park runs, etc. in the winters the park turns into a winter wonderland.

7. Exploring the San Francisco Peaks:

Exploring the highest point in Arizona is a must-see out of all the things to do in Flagstaff. When you travel to the north of Flagstaff, you can see the volcanic range of San Francisco mountains, which contains 6 of the highest peaks in Arizona. There are many hiking and biking trails in this area where you can escape into the wilderness of these breathtaking views.

8. Visiting Heritage Square:

If you want to enjoy live local music and culture, then heritage square is the place for you to visit. It doesn’t matter at what time you’re visiting you will be able to find something going here. It is the place where most happening stuff in Flagstaff takes place. However, if you to contribute to the development of this square, you can buy and donate an engraved brick.

9. The Wonderful World of the Arboretum:

 

The Arboretum is a living plants museum having more than 2500 species of plants. It is something that you can never miss from the things to do in flagstaff itinerary. Guided tours of this place are also available, or you can go exploring on your own too. There are various greenhouses and natural habitats of plants here.

10. Walnut Canyon:

Walnut Canyon lies to the east of Flagstaff. It is famous for its enormous population of Arizona’s walnut trees. It is one of those things to do in Flagstaff that you cannot miss. There is a diverse variety of flora here as well as some worth-seeing wildlife. There’s a national monument here to which several trails lead. The most interesting trail is the loop trail on which you can examine 25 ancient sites left by the Sinagua people. There are 80 cliff dwellings as well for you to explore.

Flagstaff Arizona Attractions:

Other than the places mentioned above these are some of the many sites that I recommend you to visit. Some of my most favorite places to visit and things to do in Flagstaff are below:

1. Sunset Crater Park:

Sunset crater park is undoubtedly a wonder of geology. Sunset crater park is actually the remains of a volcano that erupted in 1085 BCE. So today it stands as a reminder of nature’s colossal capabilities. This place is perfect for hiking as trails lie on the rim and in crisscross way across the volcano. Out of all the places to visit in Flagstaff, sunset crater park is the right choice.

2. Lava River Cave:

Lava river cave is a must-visit place when you’re in Flagstaff. It is one of the main flagstaff things to do in your visit. Once you enter the lava river cave, you’ll feel that you’ve crossed into the underworld. Lava river cave is a natural museum, and its entrance is just a hole in the ground. When you enter it, you will see large slippery boulders and a long trek into the darkness. Due to the natural insulation of the cave, the temperatures here are quite low, i.e., 2-7˚C. Therefore, wear something warm and use durable, sturdy shoes that will help you in moving around in rough terrains. You can see beautiful lava features inside the cave’s interior.

3. Museum of Northern Arizona:

Out of all the stuff to do in Flagstaff, exploring northern Arizona museum is a must. MNA is the home of the Native American Artifacts with a collection of more than 5 million artifacts. Moreover, in its geology museum, you can learn a lot about the San Francisco peaks and dormant volcanos. There are many models present in MNA using which you can easily understand different processes like volcanic activities and changes in Colorado Plateau.

4. Flagstaff’s Downtown and Train District:

The downtown in Flagstaff is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff. Enjoying a simple stroll in Flagstaff’s center will take you back in the 1900s. This place is full of great eateries and shopping places. The downtown area is around the old railroad and station. There are many visitor centers here that will give you complete information about Flagstaff and surrounding areas.

5. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park:

If you’re a history lover, then you’ll definitely fall in love with this place. The best things to do in Flagstaff is to visit historical sites. Riordan Mansion is a duplex-style mansion, which is an accurate depiction of American Arts and Crafts in architecture. They constructed it in 1904 with all the latest facilities like internal plumbing, central heating, electric lights, hot and cold running waters. If you’re looking for what to see in Flagstaff, then this is the place to go.

I hope that after reading my travel blog, you will be able to decide what you can do in Flagstaff next time when you visit. If you need further information regarding anything, feels free to contact me through the comments. However, if you think I have missed some info let me know.