Flagstaff

Day Trips

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, such as the popular MartAnne's Burrito Palace, where the delicious chilaquiles will fuel your exploration. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the beautiful architecture of the buildings dating back to the early 1900s. Don’t forget to pop into local shops to browse handmade crafts and Native American art.

In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Northern Arizona, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage and natural history of the Colorado Plateau. The museum's exhibits include Native American artifacts, geological displays, and impressive artwork. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby Observatory Mesa, where you can soak in stunning views of Flagstaff and the surrounding mountains.

As the sun sets, head back downtown for dinner at one of the many eateries offering local cuisine, such as Diablo Burger, known for its gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, catch a live music performance at the Orpheum Theater, where local and national acts often grace the stage. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar like The McMillan, known for its craft cocktails and inviting atmosphere.

Begin your day with a quick breakfast at your accommodation or grab a coffee and pastry from a local café before heading to Walnut Canyon National Monument. Spend the morning hiking the Island Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the canyon and its ancient cliff dwellings. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like deer and various bird species as you traverse the scenic paths.

After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic picnic areas within the park, listening to the sounds of nature surrounding you. In the afternoon, take time to visit the visitor center to learn more about the history of the Native American inhabitants of the canyon. Consider joining a ranger-led program if available, to gain deeper insights into the area's ecology and history.

Return to Flagstaff in the evening and unwind with dinner at The Cottage, a charming restaurant known for its inviting atmosphere and farm-to-table dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through Buffalo Park, where you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks. If you're up for it, finish the night with a star-gazing session at the Lowell Observatory, where you can explore the cosmos through powerful telescopes.

Kick off your day early with a quick breakfast at your hotel or a local diner before embarking on a short drive to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Upon arrival, the breathtaking views will greet you, and you can start your adventure by walking along the Rim Trail to take in the stunning vistas. Don't forget your camera to capture the iconic canyon views at Mather Point.

After exploring the Rim Trail, grab lunch at the historic El Tovar Dining Room, offering delicious meals with fantastic canyon views. In the afternoon, consider taking a guided tour or shuttle to various viewpoints like Yavapai Point and Desert View, where you can learn about the geology and history of the canyon. If you're feeling adventurous, join a ranger-led hike to experience the canyon's beauty up close.

As the day winds down, find a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Grand Canyon, a truly mesmerizing experience as the colors transform the landscape. After sunset, return to Flagstaff and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at Pizzicletta, known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas. End your evening with a relaxing walk through the town, soaking in the vibrant local culture.

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at a local favorite, such as the Breakfast Club, where you can enjoy a variety of hearty options. Afterward, head to the Museum of Northern Arizona to explore its extensive exhibits that showcase the region's Native American cultures and natural history. Take your time to appreciate the art and artifacts that tell the story of the Colorado Plateau.

For lunch, visit a nearby café or grab a bite at the museum's café, which often features locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon exploring the outdoor exhibits, which include beautiful gardens and sculptures that enhance your understanding of the area's ecology. If interested, join one of the museum’s workshops or lectures to deepen your appreciation for Northern Arizona's cultural heritage.

As the sun begins to set, treat yourself to dinner at The Oakmont, a restaurant known for its creative American cuisine and stylish ambiance. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, where you can admire the architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds. Cap off your evening with a visit to the local brewery, such as Mother Road Brewing Co., to sample some of Flagstaff's finest craft beers.

Fuel up with breakfast at a local café before embarking on a scenic drive through the San Francisco Peaks, where you'll be surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Stop at the various lookout points along the way to capture breathtaking photos of the peaks and the expansive forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you drive; deer and various bird species are often spotted along the route.

Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic areas, such as the Lockett Meadow, where you can soak in the fresh mountain air and enjoy stunning views. Afterward, take a hike on one of the trails, like the Weatherford Trail, which offers a moderate challenge and rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and your camera to capture the natural beauty.

Return to Flagstaff in the evening and unwind with dinner at a local favorite, such as The Flagstaff Brewing Company, where you can enjoy hearty dishes along with craft beer brewed on-site. After dinner, take a stroll through the local shops and galleries that line the streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to the local cinema to catch an indie film or a classic movie in a cozy setting.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before embarking on a drive to the Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites on Earth. Upon arrival, visit the visitor center to learn about the crater's history and formation through engaging exhibits and displays. Afterward, take a guided tour around the crater’s edge for breathtaking views and insightful commentary.

Enjoy a packed lunch at a designated picnic area or head back to Flagstaff for a meal at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, consider visiting the nearby Barringer Space Museum to learn more about the science of meteors and space exploration. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the surrounding area on foot or bike, taking in the unique desert landscape.

As evening approaches, return to Flagstaff and enjoy dinner at a cozy local restaurant, such as The Horsemen Lodge, known for its rustic charm and hearty meals. After dinner, explore the local nightlife, perhaps catching a live band at a nearby venue. End your day with a relaxing walk under the stars, enjoying the clear Arizona sky.

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner before heading to Willow Lake for a peaceful day outdoors. Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk around the lake's perimeter, enjoying the serene beauty and opportunities for birdwatching. Bring your binoculars to spot various species that inhabit the area, and don't forget your camera for picturesque shots of the landscape.

After your morning walk, settle down for a picnic lunch by the lake, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake from the water for a refreshing afternoon activity. If you're feeling adventurous, take a short hike on one of the nearby trails that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

As the sun begins to set, pack up and head back to Flagstaff for dinner at a local eatery, such as Satchmo's, where you can indulge in delicious barbecue fare. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, where the charming streets come alive with local art and music. Cap off your evening with a dessert from a local bakery, celebrating a relaxing and fulfilling day.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then make your way to the Lowell Observatory for a fascinating day of astronomy. Begin with a guided tour to learn about the history of the observatory and its significance in the field of astronomy. Explore the various telescopes and exhibits, gaining insights into the universe and its wonders.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby café or pack a picnic to enjoy at the observatory grounds. In the afternoon, participate in one of the observatory's educational sessions or workshops, which often cover topics ranging from planetary science to astrophysics. Spend time observing the sun through specialized telescopes, a unique experience that is both exciting and educational.

As night falls, return to the observatory for a special evening program, where you can gaze at the stars through powerful telescopes. Join fellow astronomy enthusiasts and engage in discussions about celestial events and discoveries. End your day with a peaceful drive back to Flagstaff, reflecting on the wonders of the universe and the beautiful experiences you've had.

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local favorite, such as The Toasted Owl Café, known for its unique menu and cozy atmosphere. After breakfast, take a stroll around the downtown area, exploring local shops and art galleries to discover Flagstaff's vibrant culture. Stop by the Flagstaff Farmers Market (if it's the right season) to browse fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can savor seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. Spend your afternoon visiting some of Flagstaff's renowned breweries, such as Beaver Street Brewery and Historic Brewing Company, sampling a variety of craft beers and learning about the brewing process. Don’t miss the opportunity to chat with local brewers and gain insight into their craft.

For dinner, choose one of the local eateries that focus on using fresh, local ingredients, like The Flagstaff Ranch Golf Club for a fine dining experience. After dinner, continue your exploration of Flagstaff’s craft beer scene with a brewery tour or tasting flight at one of the local breweries. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy pub, enjoying the local ambiance and good company.