4th of July

6 TOP THINGS TO DO IN FLAGSTAFF ON JULY 4TH

Independence Day is all about food, fun and freedom. In the mountain town of Flagstaff, we have so much of that, you’ll need a three-day weekend (or more) to pack it all in. Flagstaff 4th of July Weekend is an all-American, stars and stripes celebration filled with excitement—all in the cool pines. It’s no surprise that Travel Channel selected Flagstaff for “Top 10 Small Town Fourth of July Celebrations.” 

1. WATCH THE FLAGSTAFF 4TH OF JULY PARADE

The 2023 Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Independence Day Parade will follow the usual route around Historic Downtown Flagstaff. Starting at Elm & Beaver, it will go south down Beaver, turn left on Aspen to San Francisco and north on San Francisco back to Elm.

2. EARN YOUR STARS AND STRIPES

Earn your stripes when you zip through the world’s largest Ponderosa pine forest at Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course. Not everyone can say they conquered aerial obstacles that include swings, slides, suspended bridges and nets. This thrilling activity is treetops above the rest in providing safe, fun and physical outdoor experiences. Reservations recommended during Flagstaff 4th of July Weekend.

3. CELEBRATE OUR NATIONAL PARKS 

Get your patriotism on by visiting Flagstaff’s nearby national parks. Walnut Canyon is within 30 miles (48 km) from Flagstaff and for another monumental option, take the beautiful scenic 80-mile drive north to Grand Canyon National Park.  

4. WALK LIKE AN ASTRONAUT

Every Apollo astronaut who walked on the moon trained in Flagstaff. Independence Day is the perfect time to trace their steps with Flagstaff Lunar Legacy Landmarks Maps and Passports available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center (1 East Route 66).  Your moonwalk will take you to Meteor Crater, USGS Astrogeology Center, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument (temporarily closed), Cinder Lakes and Grand Canyon National Park.  Collect stamps on your passport for a free Flagstaff Lunar Legacy prize.

5. EXPERIENCE FLAGSTAFF'S LASER LIGHT SHOW

Experience oohs and aahs or hoots and hollers along with big laughs, giggles, and smiles as you look up to a fantastic night sky on the 4th of July in Flagstaff. This new laser light show will captivate your attention replacing the standard fireworks with a stunning display of multicolored lights and lasers in sync with fun music. The stage will be set for an aerial beam show that can be viewed from 100 ft. to 500 ft. at the Flagstaff Continental Golf Country Club. The show begins approximately between 8:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. as the dark skies unfold. Park at the driving range (5000 Old Walnut Canyon Rd.) and walk toward the lights to get as close as possible to watch the spectacular laser light show over the golf course. It is recommended to arrive at least one hour before the show or even earlier and to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

6. GET YOUR (4TH OF JULY) KICKS ON ROUTE 66

Escape the mundane when you cruise like the wind with the windows down and sunroof open, take the top-down to enjoy your convertible or ride your motorcycle along the nostalgic Route 66. The Mother Road runs right through Historic Downtown Flagstaff, where Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper rode in scenes from the movie, Easy Rider. From here, cruise out to hidden spots and obscure roadside attractions.  You’ll capture the spirit and freedom of simpler times on scenic roads–without the big-city traffic. Be sure to stop at the Flagstaff Visitor Center located in the heart of downtown Flagstaff at One East Route 66. Take a selfie on the Route 66 street graphic, grab a few souvenirs, and experience the self-guided "Walk this Talk" tour. Simply call the toll-free number (928-213-2926) to begin the audio tour at the Visitor Center which is introduced by Flagstaff native and actor, Ted Danson. The "Walk this Talk" tour stops will guide you along a one-of-a-kind Route 66 historical journey.