First Time In Flagstaff

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Take a day trip to Williams and witness a "Wild-West Shootout," then ride an authentic steam-powered locomotive 65-miles to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. Shop along the Canyon or try a little ice-cream treat while enjoying the view. Your return trip holds a little "surprise." If you prefer to stay in Williams, there are quaint B&Bs as well as the popular Fray Marcos Hotel. Antique shops line the charming streets of Williams, which is part of historic Old Route 66. Fares run from $24.95-$119.95 round trip.

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Our Local Expert Says:

This is a great way to gain a first impression of the canyon before deciding on a good day hike.

Description:

The Rim Trail on the South Rim is one of the most popular things to do for visitors just arriving at Grand Canyon National Park. It's easy to see why: this path is easy on the soles and represents a great introduction to the panoramic wonders of the park. The path follows the South Rim westward from Yavapai to Hermits Rest, and is paved and fairly level for the first few miles, making this one of the park's best wheelchair accessible trails. The canyon will unfold as you move west, and once you manage to pry your eyes away from the canyon below, you'll notice you are surrounded by ponderosa and pinyon pines, shrub oaks, and chipmunks and squirrels playing in the woodland. To get here, leave your car at the visitor center and take the free shuttle to Yavapai Point. You can return to the visitor center from several points along the trail, making it easy to customize your schedule from here.

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Our Local Expert Says:

Take 89A through this beautiful canyon dotted with great spots to fish, camp, hike, and picnic. Don’t forget your camera!

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A trip to Sedona would not be complete without a day spent bumming around Oak Creek Canyon. Traveling from Flagstaff to Sedona, Ponderosa pines give way to Sedona's signature red rocks in this breathtaking canyon. A quick stop at the Oak Creek Canyon Vista Lookout is worth a few wide-angle lens photos before driving down the winding switchbacks. Once the road levels out, most visitors tour the canyon by foot; hiking along Oak Creek, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and gazing at the towering cliffs in all directions.

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Our Local Expert Says:

The Riordans were the owners of lumber company early on in Flagstaff history. Learn about family history and see living conditions of them and their in-house help. Mansion built at the time when Flagstaff was a timber industry town.

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Get a glimpse of Flagstaff's logging town past with a visit to Riordan State Historic Park, located near the Northern Arizona University campus. Lumber baron brothers Michael and Timothy Riordan built the mansion in 1904, which was designed by Charles Whittlesley, also famous for building the El Tovar Hotel at the Grand Canyon. The 13,300 square foot mansion contains 40 rooms of log-and-stone,  many of which are furnished with Gustav Stickley furniture, known as the father of the American Arts and Crafts design movement. One of the most whimsical objects you'll see in the house are the "Paul Bunyan" shoes--a two-foot long pair of boots that Timothy Riordan built in his workshop. Everything in the mansion is original, making this a goldmine for history buffs everywhere.

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Our Local Expert Says:

On a clear night in the winter, stargazing through this magnificent telescope with make your jaw drop. Part way up Mars hill, look for a small vista on the right where all of Flagstaff can be seen below.

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Lowell Observatory, located atop Mars Hill Road just outside of downtown Flagstaff, is one of the leading astronomical research facilities in the United States, and one of the city's true must-see attractions. The observatory offers a compelling glimpse to universe--even bored teenagers will be amazed by what they see on the other side of the telescope. Day visitors are treated to guided tours, multimedia exhibits, and a viewing of the Sun with a specially equipped telescope. But the real action starts at dusk, when (weather permitting) the staff opens up the telescopes for viewings of Jupiter, the Moon, star clusters, and other incredible celestial sights. Rain or shine, visitors are also invited to experience the Observatory's interactive presentations at their portable planetarium, and tours of the Universe inside the 3-D movie theatre. If you happen to be looking for a great place to take a date, the Observatory, which is surrounded by walking trails and great  views of the dark skies over Flagstaff, is surprisingly romantic.

Multimedia Shows

Computer-generated imagery meets the exciting music of Mannheim Steamroller in our 30-minute widescreen show Heavy Astronomy: Marvels of the Cosmos.

Join us in the evenings for telescope viewing, widescreen multimedia shows, and tours of the Universe with our 3D space theatre – all while enjoying the clear mountain air and dark skies over Flagstaff.

 

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A must-stop for anyone remotely interested in Native American culture or the geological history of the Colorado Plateau. The museum is home to over 600,000 artifacts of anthropological, geological, historical, and artistic interest, as well as extensive federal and tribal research collections. Not to be missed is the museum's permanent anthropology exhibit, "Native Peoples of the Colorado Plateau," which documents 12,000 years of occupation in the area. The Hopi Kiva Room and Jewelry Gallery showcase the singular beauty of native handcrafted jewelry, while the Ethnology Gallery provides an intriguing glimpse into the daily lives of local tribe members. Located three miles north of Flagstaff on US Highway 180, the museum is an easy stopping point on your way to, or from, the Grand Canyon.

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Located about eight miles southeast of Flagstaff off I-40, Walnut Canyon National Monument offers a fascinating peek into the lives of the people anthropologists have named the Sinagua ("without water"). A strenuous, one-mile walk on the Island Trail gives you a front-row glimpse to the 700-year old cliff dwellings where the Sinagua lived and left their mark. Peer into the past as you take in the 25 cliff dwellings along the trail. You can see more dwellings across the canyon. Even if you are not transfixed by the mystery of the people who built this cliffside pueblo, the lush canyon is the perfect high desert backdrop for your Northern Arizona adventure. The canyon is a valuable habitat for many species of plants and animals, and a gorgeous backdrop for photographers of all stripes.

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Josephine's Modern American Bistro near downtown Flagstaff features an eclectic menu of Modern American fare with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Award-winning chef Tony Cosentino is known to vary the menu, but dishes here are reliably inventive and delicious no matter what time of year you visit. Try the Diablo Mac & Cheese, a gourmet take on a comfort food favorite. Salad-lover's will appreciate the wide selection of organic greens, including the popular Champagne Vinaigrette Salad. Lunch and dinner is served in a casual yet upscale setting inside a lovely Craftsman bungalow that is on the National Historic Register, and on warm evenings, the landscaped patio is ideal. An extensive wine and dessert menu round out the offerings at this foodie haven.

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The quintessential Route 66 roadhouse, this is the place any road-weary traveler will want to stop for good, no-nonsense home cooking. Even if you're not on the road, you'll want to stop by anyway. The sassy service, no-frills eats and quaint atmosphere are truly priceless. As you might expect, breakfast is a big thing here featuring made-from-scratch pancakes and the usual diner fare. The fries are freshly cut, and the proprietors butcher their own meats for extra juicy burgers and steaks.

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Talk about great food AND great ambiance. Diablo Burger is located centrally downtown in an old silo in historic Heritage Square. It may be small (seating 26 intimately)the food packs a punch. Interesting arrangements of bar stools and long bar tables invite strangers to mingle and munch. The meat comes from the diablo trust ranches, which have operated since the late 1800's. All produce is purchased locally whenever possible. The fries are seasoned with savory herbs, the burgers are unique and delicious and every bun is smartly "branded" with the restaurant's initials. Beer and wine are available, as well as natural sodas. Be patient and wait for a killer warm cookie with ice cream for dessert. This place is earth friendly and just plain old friendly. Giddy-up!

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The first of only three local micro-breweries, Beaver Street is located just south of the historic train station in charming downtown Flagstaff.  The brewery offers a diverse selection of award-winning ale and lager at the 2009 Great American Beer Festival, while the Whistle Stop Cafe entices the whole family with its unique food menu.  Enjoy the toasty atmosphere on a chilly winter evening near the wood stove in the entryway.  If you're lucky enough to sit near the open kitchen, enjoy the production behind the scenes while your meal is being prepared.  Rack 'em up after dinner or while sampling the brew in the new billiards room.  Everything is under one roof here.  You can't go wrong with this choice, but they don't take reservations, so avoid rush hour if you prefer not to wait.

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Our Local Expert Says:

Waiters and waitresses are not only friendly and helpful, they are also singers and dancers! Meal-times are interrupted by occasional musical acts. Bring along your fake mustache and six-shooter!

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Western kitsch abounds at this bright, boisterous cowboy palace near downtown Flagstaff. This meat-lover's paradise specializes in cowboy steaks, prime ribs, and barbequed chicken, so if you're set on getting a full service of vegetables for dinner, best steer elsewhere (the deep-fried zucchini and mushrooms probably don't count towards your daily nutritional content). Live entertainment is provided by the Northern Arizona University musical theater students, who regularly put down their trays to hop on stage and belt out classic show tunes. Although definitely not the most sophisticated place to eat around downtown, curious (and hungry) diners will certainly get an eye- and earful at Black Bart's. The Wild West decor, solid steakhouse offerings, and singing waitstaff definitely make this one of the more unique places to have dinner. Perfect for families and anyone with a good sense of humor.

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Flagstaff's downtown Irish Pub features DJs at night and a crowded and boisterous dance-floor.  Stay out late, but you may not be yourself at the Top o' the Marnin!

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Our Local Expert Says:

The best coffee in town, arguably in contest with Late For the Train. All coffee is made with espresso except for the French press. Large staff continuously rotating, but generally all students and artists to make for a stimulating atmosphere.

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An eclectic and intimate atmosphere, Macy's roasts organic and estate beans almost every day.  Although the crisp aroma throughout the charming neighborhood, locals know that a delectable variety of freshly-baked cookies, pies, layer cakes, brownies and tarts are also available.  Breakfast and lunch are served in generous, tasty portions.  Macy's proudly offers and all-vegetarian menu with an assortment of wheat-free, dairy-free, and vegan choices.  Enjoy the photography by owner, Tim Macy, while sipping and noshing.  Macy's features local musical talent on any given day.

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Our Local Expert Says:

12 time Best of Flagstaff award winner

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Brandy's was recently featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives on the Food Network as one of Flagstaff's premiere restaurants.  Family-owned for 15 years, this gem has a warm, hometown feel, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Brandy's also boasts a delectable variety of home made pastries (large portions only) and a delicious coffee menu.

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The most affordable billiards in town, Brews and Cues also serves up some fine local brews. TV sports and jukebox are also on the premises. Brews and Cues generally attracts a young crowd and is always high energy.

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Our Local Expert Says:

For local color and history, The Museum Club can't be beat.

Description:

This is the quintessential Western roadhouse, complete with stuffed animal heads hanging off the walls. The impressive collection of taxidermy was the labor of love of Dean Eldredge, a hunter and collector who began construction on a taxidermy museum in 1931. Today, Eldredge's log cabin museum is home to one of the region's oldest roadhouses, featuring upbeat country music, lots of line dancing, and plenty of beer on tap. This cowboy palace is the perfect night spot to get a taste of historic Flagstaff, and to two-step the night away inside a behemoth log cabin.

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The Northern Arizona branch of the Air Museum (the main location is at the Chino Airport in California), this museum at Valle Airport (between the Grand Canyon and Williams) chronicles the history and technology of aviation in America. Among the entertaining and educational exhibits, you will see General Douglas McArthur's Lockheed Constellation, which was used for his transport during the Korean War. Above the standard cost of a standard admission, an additional fee is charged for a separate tour of the McArthur aircraft. The museum hosts a major air show each June.

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Located north of Flagstaff near Wupatki National Monument, this volcano last erupted in 1065, scattering ash and black cinder for miles around the area. Examine fascinating volcanic features such as squeeze-ups and hornitos. Hike along one-mile Lava Flow Trail and discover a variety of volcanic formations. Climb a nearby cinder cone on the Lennox Crater Trail and enjoy the astounding views.

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This is Arizona's first archaeological state park. It consists of four major pueblo sites, inhabited by the Anasazi peoples between 1200 and 1425 A.D. The ruins are spread throughout the 340-acre park. Special workshops, programs and exhibits on Native American culture and history are regularly scheduled. The complex also has campsites, picnic areas and hiking trails. Guided tours are available by special arrangement. There is no admission fee for day use, although overnight fees do apply for campsites inside the park.

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The Hopi Mesas are made of stunning redrocks, juniper and pinon terrain, and ancient villages still inhabited by the clans that settled there. Each clan has its own story of how it came to settle after a long expedition from its emergence point ((his)stories often considered mythological, but taken literally by many as well) through the Southwest. The clans split off from each other through inner-disputes and contrasting decisions about which direction to travel to find their place in the world. As the clans went separate ways, they came to be associated with animals that influenced the clans' travels and characterizes to this day their role in the tribal community. When it comes to social and political dynamics, inter-tribal disputes are still common and lead to a dialectical, careful process of decision-making. The Hopi tribe is known as one of the best preserved native tribes in the Country mostly due to the fact that they chose not to communicate with the New World pioneers, not to set up a government to communicate with the U.S. government until late into the U.S.'s history, and not to allow U.S. commercial trades into their territory. It is proper custom to visit galleries, restaurants, and other established visiting centers unless you are invited into the villages for an occasion. Guides can also be contacted through the Visitor's Center for safe and informative visits all over the mesas. Also open to the public are social dances held on weekends during late summer and early fall (the schedule is sporadic and it is best to ask). Kachina dances, on the other hand, are invite-only occasions. Refrain from taking photos or otherwise documenting your experience while you are there. It is frowned upon because it is considered exploitation by many of the traditional people, and you may even find that your camera is stolen and broken in front of your eyes. If you are attending a social dance, you may be welcomed into someone's house for lunch, at which you will be given mutton stew, yeast bread, and other Hopi delicacies. It is best to just observe and follow the native customs during this kind and open invitation. A visit to the Hopi Mesas is a truly awe-inspiring experience, and the people at the Visitor's Center are kind and helpful, giving you tips on where to go and what the local customs are. Tune into the Hopi radio station, KUYO, 88.1 FM while you're there.

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The Zane Grey hovers above Charly's.  Live music downstairs and loud chatter upstairs. The bar offers plenty of seating, elegant hard-wood tables and chairs, a balcony overlooking downtown, and freshly made popcorn out of a vintage popper.  The balcony is open all year, but the doors close at sunset during winter.  Brrr!