At an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,135 m), in the midst of the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff offers an eclectic mix of small town charm and endless outdoor adventures. A rugged pioneer past blends with modern-day innovation to create a destination full of activities both inside and out. Flagstaff is 80 miles from the Grand Canyon and close to seven national parks and monuments.
List of self-guided activities accessible by automobile in the flagstaff area.
Arizona Snowbowl (928-779-1951; www.arizonasnowbowl.com)
9300 N Snowbowl Road, Flagstaff, AZ
Year-round playground on the San Francisco Peaks boasting a 2,300-foot vertical drop and Scenic Skyride cruises to 11,500 feet for incredible views.
Coconino Center for the Arts (928-779-2300; www.flagartscouncil.org)
2300 North Fort Valley Road Flagstaff, AZ
This 4,000-square-foot gallery features diverse exhibitions, and the intimate 200-seat theater offers concerts, performances, films and presentations.
Lowell Observatory (928-774-3358; www.lowell.edu)
1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ
Famous for the discovery of Pluto, the observatory is active in research and welcomes visitors year-round for telescope viewing and guided tours.
Museum of Northern Arizona (928-774-5213; www.musnaz.org)
3101 N. Fort Valley Rd. Flagstaff, AZ
The museum presents Native cultures, tribal life, natural sciences, and fine arts in nine exhibit galleries.
Pioneer Museum (928-774-6272; www.arizonahistoricalsociety.org)
2340 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ
This state museum collects preserves and exhibits historical artifacts, documents and photographs from northern Arizona.
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park (928-779-4395;www.azstateparks.com/riordan-mansion)
409 W Riordan Rd, Flagstaff, AZ
Completed in 1904 in the Arts and Crafts style of architecture, the historic mansion has more than 40 rooms and 13,000 square feet.
Verde Canyon Railroad (928-639-0010; www.verdecanyonrr.com)
300 North Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ
Four-hour rail journey from the old mining town of Clarkdale to the Perkinsville ghost ranch and back. The train passes towering crimson pinnacles, near ancient Indian ruins, over fortified trestles, past a monocline fold and through a manmade 680-foot tunnel.