1. Tour Downtown
Founded in the mid-19th century as a railroad and logging town, Flagstaff has a rich history encompassing Native American culture, Arizona’s frontier days, Route 66 and Grand Canyon tourism. Many buildings in the downtown area are more than a century old and fully restored, now housing shops and restaurants. Essential stops (at the intersection of North San Francisco Street and Aspen Ave.) include Winter Sun for Native American crafts, Late for the Train coffee shop and the retro Monte Vista Hotel. Take a self-guided historic walking tour of Flagstaff’s Route 66; download guide at: flagstaffarizona.org/downloads/visitors/route66.
2. View Constellations at Lowell Observatory
Perched atop Mars Hill just west of Flagstaff’s downtown, Lowell Observatory is internationally renowned for astronomical discoveries including the first recorded sightings of Pluto made more than a century ago by Percival Lowell. Today, the observatory continues active research with a staff of astronomers peering into the dark skies above Flagstaff. Visitors can see the observatory’s museum collection and interactive exhibits including several operational large-scale telescopes that are set up for public viewing. Admission is $10 for adults, $4 for children ages 5-17, and free for ages 5 under. Public hours change seasonally; check website for times. For more information: (928)-774-3358; lowell.edu.
3. Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona
Located on US 180, the Museum of Northern Arizona features numerous exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the Colorado Plateau (see page 66). Archives include a vast assortment of Native American artifacts from the region along with a fine art collection. Seasonal cultural festivals are held throughout the year; see website for a listing. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for children ages 17 and under. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information: (928) 774-5213; musnaz.com.
4. Ride the Urban Trails
The 50-mile Flagstaff Urban Trail System provides a pedestrian and bikefriendly way to get around town as well as experience the area’s scenic mountain landscape. The Rio De Flag North Trail and the McMillan Mesa Trail sections wind through pine forests and grassy, high-country meadows with excellent views of the San Francisco Peaks. A detailed map of the trail system can be picked up for free at the Flagstaff Visitor Center next to the Amtrak train station on Route 66. Or go to the FUTS pages on the City of Flagstaff website: flagstaff.az.gov.
5. Walk in Walnut Canyon
Tucked away in the pine forest just off I-40, Walnut Canyon National Monument protects one of northern Arizona’s largest archaeological sites. The Sinagua Indians lived here nearly 1,000 year ago, and more than 30 cliff dwellings remain from this era. There are two self-guided tours of the ruins. The Island Trail is 3/4 of a mile long and descends 185 feet, leading past 25 ruins. The easier 1/2 mile Rim Trail is a loop that takes you to scenic overlooks and reconstructed dwellings. The Visitor Center museum has pottery, other artifacts and exhibits of Sinagua culture on display. From 1-40 in Flagstaff, take the Walnut Canyon exit (204) and drive three miles south to the entrance. Admission is $5 for adults, children ages 15 and younger are free. Open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information: (928) 526-3367; npa.gov/waca
On the way: Chapel of the Holy Dove A great place to stop on US 89 between Flagstaff and Grand Canyon, this small building is open 24 hours and is covered with notes, prayers, and bizarre messages people have pinned to the walls while passing through.
