things to do in or near flagstaff arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona, is a vibrant college town surrounded by the beautiful Coconino National Forest. Here are some things to do in and near Flagstaff:

Outdoor Activities

1. Hike to Humphreys Peak: The highest peak in Arizona offers stunning views and challenging hiking trails.
2. Explore the Coconino National Forest: With over 1.8 million acres of forest, there’s plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
3. Walnut Canyon National Monument: A scenic canyon with beautiful walnut trees and ancient cliff dwellings.
4. Ski at Arizona Snowbowl: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter.
5. Mountain biking: Flagstaff has an extensive network of trails for all skill levels.

Attractions

1. Lowell Observatory: Explore the historic observatory where Pluto was discovered.
2. Museum of Northern Arizona: Learn about the region’s natural and cultural history.
3. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park: Take a tour of the stunning log cabin mansion built in 1904.
4. Northern Arizona University (NAU) campus: Visit the beautiful campus, including the historic Old Main building.
5. Downtown Flagstaff: Browse the shops, galleries, and restaurants along Route 66.

Scenic Drives

1. Desert View Drive: Take in the stunning views of the Grand Canyon, just an hour’s drive from Flagstaff.
2. Oak Creek Canyon: A scenic canyon with red rock formations, swimming holes, and picnic areas.
3. San Francisco Peaks Loop: Drive through the beautiful mountains and forests.

Events and Festivals

1. Flagstaff Blues Festival: Enjoy live music and good food in June.
2. Pickin’ in the Pines: A bluegrass festival in September.
3. Coconino County Fair: A classic county fair with live music, food, and animal exhibits in September.
4. First Friday Art Walk: Explore the local art scene on the first Friday of each month.

Nearby Attractions

1. Grand Canyon National Park: One of Arizona’s most iconic natural wonders, just an hour’s drive from Flagstaff.
2. Sedona: Explore the stunning red rock formations, art galleries, and hiking trails, about an hour’s drive from Flagstaff.
3. Wupatki National Monument: An ancient Native American ruin with stunning views, about 20 minutes from Flagstaff.
4. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: A scenic volcanic landscape with hiking trails, about 20 minutes from Flagstaff.

These are just a few of the many things to do in and near Flagstaff, Arizona. The city offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and scenic drives that make it a great destination for any type of traveler.