Top 30 Things to Do in Flagstaff
Flagstaff is teeming with restaurants, breweries, galleries, unique shops, national monuments and fun attractions.
Discover the top things to do in Flagstaff, where each stop is more exciting than the last. Whether you prefer unique outdoor experiences or educational indoor adventures, this itinerary has you covered. With one-of-a-kind attractions, high-altitude ales, and local dining gems, we've done all the planning for you—just enjoy the journey! Be sure to swing by the Flagstaff Visitor Center to grab a unique souvenir to commemorate your time spent in town!
Explore Incredible Landmarks
1. Walnut Canyon National Monument
Follow the steps of the ancient inhabitants of Walnut Canyon while marveling at pueblos and ancient cliff dwellings in the curved canyon walls. Step into what were considered their humble abodes and appreciate the way life was lived before our time. Every step brings more appreciation to history and the outdoors.
2. Sunset Crater Volcano
Hike amongst ponderosa pine trees and lava flows at Sunset Crater and be transported back to when this volcano last erupted roughly 1,000 years ago. Feel the leftover volcanic ash crunch under every step. Enjoy panoramic views along the way.
3. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Visit the Riordan Mansion, a 1904 duplex built for two Riordan families who played a key role in Flagstaff’s lumber industry. Spanning 13,000 square feet and brimming with original furnishings, this historic home offers guided tours that provide insight into the early 20th-century lifestyle and the Riordan family’s impact on the region.
4. Wupatki National Monument
Once a bustling center of culture and trade, visitors to Wupatki will marvel at the ancient pueblo structures made of limestone and sandstone. One mansion pueblo, named Wupatki Pueblo, boasts more than 100 rooms making it the largest pueblo in all of Northern Arizona.
5. Museum of Northern Arizona
Explore the Museum of Northern Arizona to celebrate the Colorado Plateau, view cultural artifacts and stop in the gift shop for Native American authentically crafted blankets or beautiful selections of turquoise and silver jewelry. Some of the displays are changing every year so there is always something new to be experienced. Learn the history of Northern Arizona as you browse rooms filled with artifacts and get hands-on experiences, something not often found in museums.
6. Lowell Observatory
Search the universe, study dark skies and stargaze where Pluto was discovered at Lowell Observatory. Visitors will have the opportunity to look through new and historic telescopes, watch science demos, study exhibits, and more. Check out their calendar of events, more often than not, you'll find that Lowell is hosting some stellar events, like lunar eclipses and Meet-an-Astronomer.
7. Flagstaff Lunar Landmarks
Did you know all the astronauts that walked on the moon trained in Flagstaff? Grab a free Flagstaff Lunar Landmarks Passport at the Flagstaff Visitor Center for details, locations and history. Training is ongoing for future space exploration for both astronauts and technology.
8. Route 66
Admire the neon signs and historic buildings along the iconic Mother Road with a free self-guided “Walk this Talk” tour on Route 66 introduced by actor, Ted Danson. This tour meanders backstreets that were the original alignment of the Route 66. There are hotels, drinking, dining, and shopping along the way. Then of course there is the Route 66 that exists today, offering many of the same experiences and more.
9. Elden Pueblo Heritage Site
Explore the rich history of the Sinagua culture at Elden Pueblo Heritage Site, an ancestral Hopi village with approximately 70 rooms that date back to 1070-1275 A.D. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours with brochures available on-site, or book an educational group tour to delve deeper into the fascinating past of this ancient community.
10. Coconino Center for the Arts
Immerse yourself in Flagstaff’s vibrant arts scene at the Coconino Center for the Arts, home to a 4,000 square-foot gallery, a Jewel Gallery, and an indoor amphitheater. This vibrant venue hosts live events, exhibitions, workshops, and more, showcasing creativity across the arts in Flagstaff.
11. The Arboretum at Flagstaff
Stroll through greenhouses, gardens, and natural habitats at The Arboretum at Flagstaff featuring more than 750 plant species native to northern Arizona’s high elevation. The Arboretum also hosts special events throughout the year.
12. The Pioneer Museum
Roam the grounds at The Pioneer Museum, where you can snap a photo with the 1929 Baldwin Locomotive, explore historic farm equipment and learn about the trailblazing pioneers who shaped Flagstaff’s history.
13. Green Book Historic Tour
Take a journey through Flagstaff’s past with the Green Book Historic Tour, which highlights locations listed in the Green Book, a vital resource for African American travelers during the Jim Crow era. This self-guided, 45-minute tour leads you to key sites and sheds light on the significance of these places.
14. The Orpheum Theater
Catch a show at The Orpheum Theater, a historic venue that has been bringing live music, film screenings, and community events to downtown Flagstaff since 1917. This locally-owned gem remains a cornerstone of Flagstaff’s entertainment scene.
15. Hotel Monte Vista
Need a place to unwind during your Flagstaff adventures? Check into Hotel Monte Vista, a historic hotel that has been a beacon for travelers since 1927. A favorite for Hollywood stars and those traveling along Route 66, the hotel offers visitors a taste of the Old West, right in downtown Flagstaff.
Enjoy One-of-a-Kind Attractions
16. Arizona Gondola
Take a ride on the Arizona Gondola at Arizona Snowbowl for aerial views from the highest point in the state. Bonus: You can see the Grand Canyon from up top! Then enjoy the thrill of skiing or snowboarding down Mount Humphreys. Lodge menus offer opportunity to refuel, and an outdoor dining opportunity is perfect when weather permitting, or sitting inside is always an option too.
17. Flagstaff Urban Trail System
Get in some high altitude training on the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) with HOKA running shoes from Run Flagstaff. The 56-mile trail system is lined with many shops and natural wonders for visitors to experience. And just because the trail meanders through town doesn't mean there's any shortage of natural views.
18. Arizona National Scenic Trail
Hike the Arizona National Scenic Trail, which weaves through Flagstaff as part of its nearly 800-mile journey from Mexico to Utah. Whether you’re tackling a full passage or just enjoying a day hike, you'll be treated to high-elevation vistas and untamed wilderness. Explore Flagstaff’s section to enjoy panoramic views of mountains, forests, and desert landscapes while staying close to the amenities of town.
19. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course
Seeking an exhilarating rush of adrenaline? Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course offers roughly 30 zip-line adventures through the world's largest Ponderosa Pine Forest. This course takes climbing trees to a whole new level.
Savor Local Fare
20. Tourist Home All Day Cafe
For fresh baked pastries, stop at Tourist Home All Day Café and take home a dozen delicious crullers, cookies, croissants, and more. The patio is the perfect spot for gathering with friends and family.
21. Sweet Shoppe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with award-winning gourmet candy at the Sweet Shoppe including truffles, authentic gelato and caramel apples. Decadent fudge and chocolate dipped, well...everything, await you.
22. Salsa Brava
Devour Salsa Brava’s irresistible house-made Mexican Chocolate mousse made with hand harvested Cordillera cacao beans, heavy whipping cream and Kahlua. Salsa Brava boasts the compliments of Diner, Drive-ins, and Dives Guy Fieri from Food Network.
23. Shift Kitchen & Bar
Enjoy bold flavors on artfully composed plates with carefully selected wine pairings at Shift Kitchen and Bar or choose a bottle (or two) from the impressive and award-winning Flg Terroir. Relish in the chefs tasting menu with seasonally inspired dishes that will have your mouth watering.
24. Charly's Irish Coffee Bar
Experience performance and presentation from coffee baristas at the newly opened Charley's Irish Coffee Bar in the historic Weatherford Hotel. If you like haunted attractions, stop by the hotel's Gopher Hole Pub or simply spend a night.
25. Annex Cocktail Lounge
Say cheers with carefully crafted cocktails while sitting around fire pits at Annex Cocktail Lounge and unwind in the warm and intimate atmosphere. This location is sure to impress in every way.
26. Flagstaff Brewery Trail
Sample award-winning brews on the Flagstaff Brewery Trail and grab cans of the Pie Hole Porter at Historic Brewing Company or Tower Station from Mother Road to sip at home. Top off the experience by savoring Native American frybread at the Weatherford Hotel – it doesn’t disappoint. Get your Ale Trail passport stamped along the way and once completed, take it to the official Flagstaff Visitor Center to redeem a commemorative pint glass.
27. Visit Local Coffee Houses
Enjoy more than 15 Flagstaff coffee houses by sipping a decadent latte or taking home a pound of locally roasted coffee from Late for the Train or Firecreek Coffee Company. Locally owned Cedar House offers a cozy atmosphere and shopping that supports local businesses. Add Foret to your itinerary too, they just received a James Beard award for Best Chef. It doesn't get better than that.
Find the Perfect Keepsake
28. Arizona Handmade & Fire on the Mountain Galleries
Discover one-of-a-kind treasures from Arizona Handmade & Fire on the Mountain Galleries such as locally crafted blown glass tumblers, dark sky vases, stone creek designs and Arne scenic mugs. Fire on the Mountain is located in the heart of downtown and is a perfect addition to any itinerary.
29. Shop Boutique Gifts
From specialty soaps and bath balms to room décor and accessories, P.J. Chilcottage will have a gift for every person on your list. Supporting local is truly the gift that keeps on giving.
30. Grab Outdoor Gear
Flagstaff is home to seemingly endless outdoor adventures and activities. Head to Babbitt's Backcountry Outfitters for all of your outdoor gear needs. For a complete outdoor adventure, pick-up a premium Canyon Cooler (manufactured in Flagstaff).
