In the heart of Coconino National Forest and more than a two-hour drive north of Phoenix, Flagstaff, Arizona, is one of those underrated cities you didn’t know you wanted to visit. While touring some of the bigger cities with the family or just as a detour on a road trip, Flagstaff is a great stop along the way.
Historic train station in Flagstaff, located on Route 66. Photo: Miroslav Liska | Dreamstime.com
For the snow bunnies in the family, start up north and work your way down for a day of weather and scenery, including skiing and snowboarding at Snow Bowl. The relaxed ski resort is a fun stop on your Flagstaff visit if you’re looking for a bit of snowy scenery and sport.
Hiking
One activity you will not be short on opportunity and destinations: hiking. Whether an avid climber or new to the rugged terrain, Flagstaff has a trail to explore. Go big at Humphreys Peak, the tallest mountain in the state, and trek up with the pros, or stick to the scenic trails of Walnut Canyon National Monument and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, just about a 30-minute drive to each.
Hiking crystallized lava flow at the Sunset Crater Volcano in Flagstaff, Arizona. Photo: Fotoluminate | Dreamstime.com
Foodie Fun
If you need a break from all the hiking and exploring, head back into town for some food and brews. Enjoy casual fare and drinks with the older kids at Mother Road Brewing Company, Lumber Yard Brewing Company, Flagstaff Brewing Company, Beaver Street Brewery, Historic Barrel and Bottle House and Dark Sky Brewing Company — just to name a few. Most of the breweries and pubs are all within walking distance of each other, some offering pool tables and bar games. If drinks aren’t on the menu for your family, no problem, there are plenty of family-focused restaurants in the area.
Keep it Weird
A great one for the younger kids and more celestial-inclined, head to the Galaxy Diner on Route 66. The 50s-style diner is a fun way to explore the famous highway and enjoy some comfort food at the same time. Keep with the galaxy theme and head to the Lowell Observatory for astrological fun, including a rotating calendar of events.
Arizona is famous for its outdoor adventures, incredible scenic locales and natural beauty, but you can get almost any nature activity checked off your list in this city in just one day. Surrounded by a mix of desert, mountains and robust pine forests, Flagstaff is ready for adventure.
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