Flagstaff is right at 4 hours from Las Vegas. It’s an easy drive on major highways. We’ve been to Flagstaff 3 times. Flagstaff is not far from Sedona, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, Williams, and other points of interest, so it makes for a great launch point for different day trips. Since we’ve been several times, rather than detailing each trip, I will instead share our favorite places.
Attractions:
Mt. Humphreys- We have visited twice during the summer with lots of hiking options and fun activities at the ski resort on top, the Arizona Snowbowl. The kids tubed down and mountain and did some trampoline bungy type jumping. You can get lunch or a snack at the resort and take the gondola all the way to the top for a scenic view. There are cooler temps in the summer, which is nice! We would like to go back during ski season.
Sunset Crater- There are hiking trails and lots of volcanic sites to see. The history is interesting at this site, and you can see where astronauts trained before walking on the moon.
Lowell Observatory- There is a lot of history to see here and you must take the tour! You can see the telescope that discovered Pluto. There is also actual stargazing through their telescopes that you can do at nighttime. We visited during the day, so we didn’t do this, but it would be a fun add on!
Walnut Canyon- There are hiking trails along the rim down in the canyon. The Canyon itself is impressive. Be cautious with young kids as there are drop offs. We stayed along the rim and felt safe. You can see the dwelling on the sides of the canyon, which is fascinating.
Meteor Crater- This one is an absolute. I would prioritize ahead of any others I listed. It is breathtaking, educational, and memorable. I visited when I was in high school and had good memories, but I enjoyed coming back even more as an adult with my own children.
Bearizona in Williams- This is a drive through wildlife area where you can see bears, bison, bighorn sheep, wolves, etc. You can get out at the end and explore viewing some other animals and walk around. It is worth doing at least one time.
Hiking- There are many hiking trails in Flagstaff. We did part of the Griffith Spring Trail off 89A on the way to Sedona and this was very easy for the kids. Good place to stretch your legs during the day. Also, we’ve hiked on some trails at the Aspen Corner hiking stop on the way up Mt. Humphreys. It was beautiful with all the Aspen trees. There is also a hidden swing area.
Eateries:
Mother Road Brewing Company- Great brewery in downtown Flagstaff with indoor and outdoor seating. Great ambiance and food. Kid friendly.
Dark Sky Brewing Co Taproom and Pizzicletta- This is probably our favorite food and beer spot. The location is kid friendly (vs the Beer Garden location, which is +21). And there is a neat vibe with the dark sky theme.
El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant- Great little Mexican restaurant.
We’ve been to other restaurants and breweries in Flagstaff, but these were by far our favorites.
Flagstaff is a neat little college town with lots to do in the area. I think there is still plenty untapped that we would consider planning yet another trip. The Petrified Forest is on our list to name one! Again, since it’s close to other attractions, you can easily spend the day in Sedona or the Grand Canyon and return to Flagstaff by dinnertime. Sedona can be a little pricey for lodging in certain months, so staying in Flagstaff could be a good alternative. Lots of options.
Happy Trails!