Top 9 Things to Do in Flagstaff, AZ

As a gateway to the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff, AZ is a popular vacation destination for nature lovers and explorers from around the world. Not only is the city known for its easy access to iconic natural sites, but it also offers plenty of things to do within its own borders. 

From natural history museums to cozy breweries, Flagstaff has something for everyone. That’s why we’re reviewing the top 9 things to do in Flagstaff, AZ for our latest tourism guide. Check it out now!

Searching for the perfect gift to surprise your loved one with? Send them a virtual GiftYa card! GiftYa offers thousands of virtual cards for restaurants, bars, hotels, spas, and more popular destinations around the country. If you have a friend or family member planning to travel to Flagstaff, AZ, they can use their GiftYa card on some of the below sites. 

Sending one is simple. Just purchase a card on the website and text it directly to your recipient. From there, they can upload the gift to their debit card. It’s that easy!

1. The Lodge at Sedona

Charming bed and breakfast situated on two acres of stunning gardens and forests

125 Kallof Pl | Sedona | lodgeatsedona.com

Need somewhere to stay during your trip to Flagstaff? Check out The Lodge at Sedona! This popular bed and breakfast is perfect for people who need to get away and enjoy Mother Nature. Its expansive two-acre property is filled with gorgeous gardens, waterfalls, forests, and rock formations. There’s even an intricate Labyrinth for guests to explore. 

The Lodge at Sedona offers a number of different room and suite options with luxury amenities. All options come with a hot breakfast for two. While you’re at the lodge, you can also treat yourself to a massage. Swedish Massages, La Stone Therapy, and Myofascial Release services are all available. 

Learn more about The Lodge at Sedona and its luxury amenities now!

“Really nice place. The room we had was a southwestern design. Had a beautiful view and a nice balcony. Enjoyed a bottle of wine on the patio with the big fire pit. Such a great night. Just being together in a nice place.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for The Lodge at Sedona.

2. Pago’s Pizzeria & Italian Cuisine

Neighborhood pizzeria that has been serving Flagstaff locals since 1992

Buy a Pago’s Pizzeria & Italian Cuisine gift card

6446 Hwy 179, Suite 221 | Sedona | pagospizza.com

At some point during your trip, you’re going to need to fuel up. Pago’s Pizzeria & Italian Cuisine is a great option if you’re looking for something simple and inexpensive. 

This family-owned Italian restaurant offers a wide selection of pizzas, subs, calzones, pastas, and more. All of their signature entrees are made from fresh ingredients using family recipes. If you like your pizza a particular way, you can create your own pie and choose what toppings you want to add to it. Some of our favorite dishes on the menu include the Chicken Alfredo Pizza, Salmon Salad, and Breaded Ravioli. 

Check out Pago’s Pizzeria online to see their full menu!

“Good Italian food in the village. I recommend the large Pago's Special Pizza (16") as it is consistently good and feeds a lot of folks. So, a good feed for the price and the pizza is excellent.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Pago’s Pizzeria & Italian Cuisine

3. The Oakmont

Laidback modern restaurant located inside the Continental Country Club

Buy a digital The Oakmont gift card

2380 N Oakmont Dr | Flagstaff | oakmontflagstaff.com

Since 2015, locals and out-of-towners alike have dined at The Oakmont to enjoy its fresh food and rustic dining space. Both indoor and outdoor dining space is available, with the outdoor patio filling up quickly on warm sunny days. Live music is also offered every Thursday and Sunday.

The Oakmont is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Whenever you go, you can expect to enjoy fresh and savory food along with a refreshing drink. Some of their most popular dishes include the Chopped Thai Salad, Flying Hawaiian Burger, and Chicken Sonoma. Craft cocktails, wine, and beer are all available to enjoy alongside your meal. 

Reserve a table at The Oakmont now!

“A hidden gem in Flagstaff! Local neighborhood hangout located at the Continental Golf Club has good food, good drinks, and stunning VIEWS! We couldn't stop staring out of the floor-to-ceiling windows. If you're looking for a chill, date night spot with TVs, happy hour, lawn games, and spectacular views, Oakmont is where you want to be!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for The Oakmont

4. Grand Canyon National Park

Historical nature site that boasts unforgettable views

Grand Canyon | Arizona | nps.gov

The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most well-known natural wonders of the world. Millions of people visit the park each year to see its stunning rock formations and breathtaking views. 

There are three main rims of the park: the South, West, and North Rims. Most visitors access the Grand Canyon through the South Rim. However, a growing number of visitors have gone through the West Rim from Las Vegas. If you go through this route, you can check out the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge that hangs over the canyon’s edge. 

Some people view the canyon through a self-guided tour, while others embark on guided expeditions and adventure tours on rafts, vans, or even helicopters! You can easily find a tour that fits your budget and interests. 

“We've had the pleasure of visiting the Grand Canyon a few times, and each visit is more breathtaking than the last. Whether it is summer or winter, the views do not disappoint. There isn't another place like it with endless canyons.” - Yelp Review

5. Museum of Northern Arizona

Popular museum that explores the history and culture of the state

3101 N Fort Valley Rd | Flagstaff | musnaz.org

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Arizona, you should check out the Museum of Northern Arizona. This non-profit museum is located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks. It was founded to preserve the cultural heritage of the region through conservation and education. 

The museum features a number of exhibitions, including almost 400 manuscript collections and around 300,000 images, maps, sound recordings, and moving images. Classes, workshops, and seminars are also held at the museum on a regular basis. 

“Located a few miles out, this unassuming looking museum packs a lot in. Learned a lot about the geology and history of the region. I found that it gave some good background information useful when visiting Grand Canyon and other monuments and more perspective on the history of the region.” - Yelp Review

6. Coconino National Forest

Historic national forest that is a popular hiking spot

Flagstaff 

The Grand Canyon isn’t the only natural site you can visit during your stay in Flagstaff! The Coconino National Forest is a great spot for hiking and sightseeing. 

The forest spans 1.8 million acres and consists of multiple terrains including pine forests, deserts, flatlands, and volcanic peaks. You’ll find numerous trails throughout the forest as well as some shopping sites nearby. You’ll definitely want to take some photos during your visit! 

“I absolutely love it here! Yes, there's a forest in Arizona and it's breathtaking. The views are beautiful. The drive is beautiful. There are lots of campgrounds and tons of hiking trails. Honestly, I could live here.” - Yelp Review

7. Lowell Observatory

Science museum that specializes in the study of astronomy

1400 W Mars Hill Rd | Flagstaff | lowell.edu

The Lowell Observatory is a popular science museum that introduces visitors to space through advanced telescopes, scientific demos, and exhibits. There’s even an open deck observatory that you can visit! 

You can wander around the observatory yourself or join one of their tours, which is included with a general admission ticket. In addition to its regular offerings, the Lowell Observatory also hosts speaker events from experts all around the world. 

Check out their website for more info now!

“Absolutely loved our visit to Lowell Observatory!  We took the Expanding Universe Guided Tour and our guides were amazing!  They were so knowledgeable and excited to share with us.  They educators have no control over the weather but made sure we knew when clouds moved and certain stars were again visible in the telescope so we didn't miss a thing.” - Yelp Review

8. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course

Family-friendly adventure course that offers ziplines and treetop suspended obstacle courses

2446 Fort Tuthill LP | Fort Tuthill County Park | flagstaffextreme.com

Whether you consider yourself an adrenaline junkie or you just want to try something new, we recommend checking out the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course. As Arizona’s only adventure and zip line course, the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is a popular and well-known site in Flagstaff.

The recreation center’s adventure course consists of numerous circuits that each contain their own obstacles and zip lines. Rope swings, scrambling walls, nets, and more can be found throughout the course. Separate zip lining options are also available.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Book a time on their website now!

“My son and I had an outstanding experiences! This weekend we both did the advanced zip lines and it was one of the best experiences ever. I have also completed the adventure course and it was outstanding. This is such a wonderful experience for kids to build their self-esteem and for adults to challenge themselves. This is a must do experience for everyone.” - Yelp Review

9. The Arboretum at Flagstaff

200-acre arboretum located near the Coconino National Forest

4001 S Woody Mountain Rd | Flagstaff | thearb.org

The Arb is another popular site for nature lovers in Flagstaff. It’s open from May 1 to October 31 from Wednesday through Sunday. Located at the foot of the San Francisco Peaks, The Arb offers bird walks, art classes, gardening classes, yoga, and more! Gardens, woodlands, prairies, and more can also be found throughout the site.

The Arb is popular among both adults and kids, with summer camp and field trips being available throughout the year. Tours are offered daily at 11am, and are included with admission. Check out their website for more information! 

“I am a huge plant enthusiast. The garden is an enjoyable walk around that can be completed somewhat quickly. I love the native plant sale they hold every year.” - Yelp Review

Flagstaff is a popular vacation destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. While you’re here, make sure you visit one of the above destinations on our tour guide. We promise they’re worth the visit!

What do you plan to do during your vacation in Flagstaff? Let us know in the comment section below. We love hearing about all of your adventures!