Top 11 Unique things To Do In Flagstaff Before 2024

Apr 29, 2020

Last Updated on: Nov 18, 2024

Adventure

With many natural sights, monuments, and other adventurous places, Flagstaff is the largest city in northern Arizona. Trust me, you’re going to find a lot of exciting things to do in Flagstaff. I visited Flagstaff last year along with several other best places in the USA.  

It was a truly exhilarating journey from Las Vegas to Zion National Park. Apart from this, I also had a great time on the Maryland trip.  

Now, in this post, you will find many attractive places with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, etc.  

Best Things to Do in Flagstaff  

Best Things to Do in Flagstaff  

The best place to start your Flagstaff trip is from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District. Know the other exciting things to do here.  

1. Exploring Historic Downtown and Railroad District 

When you plan your Flagstaff trip, I would recommend that you start the trip from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District.  

I’m sure you’re going to enjoy the beauty of the town walking along the streets. You will find historic buildings that are now being converted into hotels, restaurants, breweries, etc.  

Even at night, you’ll find a crowd in the town. I remember when I came back from a movie show, some college students were out on the street. You can book a day or two of your stay here to enjoy the farmer’s market, local events, entertainment shows, shopping, eating, and drinking.  

The town allows easy access to many other tourist spots in Flagstaff. A wonderful park is located within walking distance of the visitors’ center. 

2. Visiting Wheeler Park is One of the Best Things to Do in Flagstaff 

Take a short walk from the visitor center of the historic downtown to get to this park. 

Visiting Wheeler Park is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.  

The park hosts a variety of events, such as regular park runs and weekly art festivals like Park Art, Hullabaloo, and more.  

The park is full of trees that give you a green space to relax and enjoy. When I visited this park, a lot of people came with books to read, but my friends and I enjoyed a picnic in the park.  

3. Grand Canyon Day Tour 

Grand Canyon Day Tour

This place is out of town, so you can book a day trip to discover different historic buildings and hike in different locations. If you have time, then a day trip to the Grand Canyon is one of the great things to do in Flagstaff. 

You’ll find the El Tovar Lodge and the Desert View Watchtower on this day trip. You’ll get a chance to have lunch and explore the Navajo Trading Post. Usually, it’s best if you’re traveling in a group. 

4. Walnut Canyon National Monument 

Walnut Canyon National Monument 

Exploring the Walnut Canyon National Monument is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. You might be thinking, why is the name of the monument called so? The reason is simple: the name is because this national monument is full of Arizona Walnut trees. 

This monument is in the East of Flagstaff, which has many types of plants. The canyon has more than 500 species of plants, and you’ll find various wildlife in the forest. 

Another interesting part of the monument is the loop trail, which descends along the canyon. There are several other trails around the Walnut Canyon, but the loop trail is the most attractive one. 

 Along this way, you will discover 25 historical limestone cliff residents where the Sinagua people were staying in the past.  

5. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument 

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument 

Have you ever heard of a volcano eruption? The Sunset Volcano National Monument is a place in Flagstaff where you can discover the eruption of volcanoes.  

Around 900 years ago, a massive volcano eruption shook the city. In this eruption, a significant volume of lava was released and dispersed over 4 miles and coated 800 + acres of land in ash and rock fragments. 

It’s been a long time since this eruption happened, but today, you can still find evidence of the violent and destructive events that occurred. The crater gives you a perfect hiking trail to explore the three lava flows.  

However, certain areas of the crater are not permitted to be explored for safety reasons. Head to the visitor center, where you can learn about the volcano eruption and how it affected the region. Many visitors recommend exploring the crater, which is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff. 

6. Wupatki National Monument 

Wupatki National Monument

Among other National Monuments, the Wupatki is one of the most famous monuments in America. However, this monument is abandoned but safeguarded by the Hopi clans. They tell the lifestyle and stories about their ancestors. To their beliefs, people at that time died here and remained as spiritual guides.  

If you want to discover the rich American history, then visiting the Wupatki National Monument is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff. Ancient Pueblo people built this monument.   

It has three buildings and 29 structures in an area of 35,000 acres (about half the area of Athens, Georgia). I didn’t get a chance to explore the place with the rangers when I visited. But if your luck is good, you might have an opportunity to discover the monument with the rangers. You can hike to some parts of the monument. 

7. Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Chairlift 

Riding the scenic chairlift to see the Arizona Snowbowl and the San Francisco Peaks is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. If you’re planning your trip in the autumn (that’s from October to December), you’ll enjoy the scenic chairlift ride. In this season, the landscape of Arizona showcases different colors and is truly mesmerizing. 

When you reach the top, you will gain some information about the place from the rangers. They offer you knowledge on various topics such as the habitats of the region, geology, and history. Apart from this, you can enjoy adventurous activities like snowboarding, walking on the trails, and skiing.  

8. Exploring the Lowell Observatory is one of the Unique Things to Do in Flagstaff 

Exploring the Lowell Observatory is one of the Unique Things to Do in Flagstaff

Lowell Observatory offers you the opportunity to get a view of space through telescopes. Do you know that this is the place where Pluto was discovered?  

Here, you will find the original telescope that was used to discover the planet Pluto. Now, it is a working research center that is open to visitors to learn about space, the universe, galaxies, etc. 

I would say visiting the Lowell Observatory is one of the most exciting things to do in Flagstaff. The observatory also hosts different special programs that allow you to meet an astronomer or attend different events, such as meteor showers. 

9. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course 

Do you like adventurous or challenging activities? Taking a rope drive on the zip lines in the Forthfill Country Park will pump your adrenaline. This spot will give you a thrilling experience by suspending between the trees.  

I had a fear of heights, and it was really challenging for me, but I really enjoyed the rope drive. Trust me, this is one of the most adventurous things to do in Flagstaff, in my opinion.  

If you travel in a group or alone, you can enjoy different adventure courses, from walking on the ropes to swinging between the trees. This place offers a different level of activities for adults and kids. 

10. Camping At Lockett Meadow 

This is the most beautiful place to visit on the list of things to do in Flagstaff. This is a fantastic place in the Coconino National Forest, inside Flagstaff. If you want to visit this place, one day is not enough and, fortunately, you can enjoy camping here. 

The best time to visit this place is all year round because you’ll have a different experience in every season. You’ll find the ash tree leaves turning yellow in the summer, and the whole place looks amazing. Meanwhile, in spring, the entire meadow is full of flowers. 

11. Museum of Northern Arizona 

This is a place where you can learn about the history of Flagstaff. The museum is built on lava stone. It allows you to discover the dinosaurs, the geology of Northern Arizona, and the ancient people who lived there. In my opinion, this is a place that you should never miss if you ever travel to Flagstaff.  

Here, you will learn about the history, biology, arts, geology, and many other things about Northern Arizona. Along with that, the museum has a central garden that shows different species of plants in the area. Visiting the museum can give you some knowledge about this place. It is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.  

Why Is Flagstaff Called a Dark City?  

Why Is Flagstaff Called a Dark City?

Flagstaff became the official “Dark City” in 2001. On 24th October 2001, it was named the “First International Dark Sky City” because of the unforeseen work it did to preserve the natural resources of the night sky.  

The preservation effort was to ensure economic security and public safety. Also, it was instrumental in ensuring Flagstaff’s position as a “premiere astronomic site” in the world. In addition, it was an expression of community values.  

You can even watch the Milky Way in Flagstaff, and the view is stellar. If the weather is good, you will see the stars shooting one after another.  

Bon Voyage! 

Hopefully, you’ve found some useful travel ideas and unique things to do in Flagstaff. From my experience, I recommend that you plan your trip from October to December.  

To explore every place on the list and have a memorable experience, plan your tour for 10 to 15 days (about 2 weeks). As I mentioned above, you’re going to explore the National Monuments, a few parks, and more. Hiking, snowboarding, skiing, and rope driving are some of the outdoor activities you’ll enjoy on your Flagstaff tour. 

Also read

Share on Social Media

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE National parks in Oklahoma

A Guide To National Parks In Oklahoma – Latest Guide

BY  Subham Saha Jul 7, 2021

Oklahoma is termed as the ‘Gateway to the West.’ If you want a short yet adventurous trip with your family, friends, or you are beloved; then this is the best spot. A land of dirt, with loitering buffaloes and distant landscape - all these actually define the beauty of the place.  However, the air in its cities is not refined anymore due to the presence of several oil rigs after the early 1900’s oil surge. Needless to mention that the significant points of attraction are its National parks. If you have a unique love for history, then you should not return without visiting the national parks of Oklahoma.   They are national parks, but they have historic trails and sites, including recreation areas and memorials. Collaboratively, they hold the diversity and history together, and here lies the natural beauty of Oklahoma.   This guide is tailored for you if you are coming to Oklahoma shortly. So brace yourself and keep reading the below segment to get a fascinating list of national parks in Oklahoma.  List Of National Parks In Oklahoma  Oklahoma is a state located in the United States south-central region. Kansas borders on the north, Texas on the West and south, Missouri on the northeast, and Arkansas on the East. The place is famous for its National Parks as well as the mesmerizing flora and fauna that they carry.  The National Parks in Oklahoma are accurate representations of nature’s raw beauty. With distinct geographical and historical features, the place is a favorite destination for all travel freaks. In addition, it is connected to every part of the world via airways, roadways, railways, and waterways.  Nevertheless, most tourists love to experience the journey with the thrilling pleasure of a road trip. Below we have presented a detailed guide to the best national parks in Oklahoma.  1. Oklahoma City National Memorial It is a memorial to honor the rescuers, survivors, and victims of the 1995 city bombing. Besides these, it is also a national park where thousands of people visit every year. It features rescuers’ orchards, a reflecting pool, and a field of empty chairs.  You can also speak to park rangers to get insights on the memorial ground from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm every day.  2. Santa Fe National Historic Trail It spans approximately 900 miles across five states of the United States - Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado. But unfortunately, visitors rely on other means of identifying the routes. Thus, it is owing to the confusion in determining the easiest path. The Santa Fe National Historic Trail is a very popular picnic spot on U.S. Highway 385 near the trail.  3. Chickasaw National Recreation Area This historical, recreational treasure preserves south-central Oklahoma hills and includes the Platt National Park and Arbuckle Recreation Area. It received the name after the Chickasaw Indian Nation, which moved to this area in the 1830s. But, in its true sense, it is one of the principal National Park sections in the Great Plains. The splendid beauty of this national park revolves around lakes, streams, and springs covering about 2409 acres. Swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, and boating are just a few of several outdoor activities available to sightseers.  Do you want to hear a piece of secret information? The events here are absolutely free to attend. Isn’t that wonderful? 4. Trail of Tears National Historic Trail It honors the journey of 16000 displaced who relocated to Oklahoma. While a number of them traveled on foot, many died on the way itself. This is why people remember this route as the ‘Trail of Tears.’ What more? -You can join the remembrance hikes through the trail for recollection of memories. If you want to learn more about this historic movement’s background, campsites, and burial sites, you can visit Kentucky’s Cherokee Trail of Tears Commemorative Park. 5. Fort Smith National Historic Site This is another national park with a touch of history and military background. The original of the fort dates back to 1817. It also attributes to the jail building, the courthouse, the commissary building, and the gallows.    The visitor area symbolizes the following aspects: Expansion of the United States Cherokee Trail of Tears  The impact of the federal court on Indian Territory justice 6. Washita Battlefield National Historic Site It is another historic site to recognize the loss of precious lives in the fight between Cheyenne village and the U.S. Cavalry. Indeed, it was one of the most dreadful incidents of the Great Plains Wars.  Here the tourists enjoy the allowance of walking and exploring across the site. Additionally, the visitors’ center will let you know more about the battle and its Martyrs. Some More Facts The three national parks out of the above receive over 1.5 million visitors per year. These three parks are Chickasaw National Recreation Area Fort Smith National Historic Site Washita Battlefield National Historic Site Therefore, it is clear that the tourism sector benefits the economy of the state by producing $27 million in revenue a year. Besides the two national trails, the national parks in Oklahoma include 22 national historic landmarks and 1290 historical places.  The Final Thoughts Now that you know the best national parks in Oklahoma, you should not face any more difficulties planning a trip. The vivid climatic distinctiveness is more prominent as you move from the East to the West. In addition, the natural habitats of a myriad of plant and animal species make the state suitable for educational tours as well.  If you are planning a tour there, don’t forget to revise this guide once again. If not, then what are you waiting for? The national parks in Oklahoma are waiting for you. So quickly reserve some holidays, and head out for the escapade. More Resources A Guide To National Parks In Georgia – Latest Guide 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai Make Your Honeymoon A Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How

READ MORE Rock Climbing Tips for Beginners

Top Rock Climbing Tips for Beginners

BY  Mashum Jun 11, 2022

Did you know that there are always numerous challenges while rock climbing, even if you are an expert? No matter how many times you may have successfully scaled a wall or a mountain, there are always problems to look out for. It is essential to go through these rock climbing tips for beginners. Rock climbing is fun and exhilarating, but there is a lot to learn. From the right harness, ropes, chalk, and footwear, you need a lot of preparation to navigate through this minefield. Here is everything you need to know about rock climbing and its benefits, with some helpful tips to safely get you to the top. What Is Rock Climbing? Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport where people need to climb up, down, or across natural rock formations or an artificial rock wall. The goal is to reach the summit safely without any dangerous problems. Some people rock climb with harnesses, while others prefer to free climb. Depending on the expedition, you may need to get some gear together to tackle a mountain. Rock Climbing Tips for Beginners The first tip in this rock climbing guide is to invest in decent equipment. This is because unsuitable shoes or clothes can lead to serious injury. Renting equipment can be expensive, but the best quality gear will be more advantageous in the long term, especially if you plan to become a competent climber. You will need a chalk and chalk bag, beginner climbing shoes, a sports harness, a climbing carabiner, and a helmet. Then you can also get some other gear like quickdraws, ropes, and crash pads that will come in handy when you have more climbing experience. Then you need to find a good instructor. When climbing as a beginner, there are numerous techniques to learn. The only way to know that you are learning everything is by going face-to-face with an expert in climbing. They have all the skills to teach lessons, lead guided tours, and do safety checks. Check out these Kilimanjaro guides for more information. Find a Climbing Partner Rock climbing is no different than other sports. Therefore, it is always more fun to have some friends around to keep you company. Having someone with you can be beneficial until you become a more confident climber. You can look out for each other to hold ropes or catch falls. Climbing with a partner is also a great way to maintain motivation while adding a touch of healthy competitiveness. Avoid Doing Too Much One of the most important rock climbing tips that no one talks about is to slow down. Remember that rock climbing is challenging. Rushing into things and tiring yourself out too early is not beneficial. Instead of developing and learning how to rock climb at their own pace, many people treat the course like a sprint. This can cause you to carelessly disregard skill and technique. Although it can feel embarrassing being left behind, always trust the process. Never be too hard on yourself, even if it takes you the longest to reach the summit. You should also not let yourself feel pressured to climb every day. Up to three sessions a week should be enough for training. Otherwise, you risk becoming fatigued and can potentially get injured as well. Silent Feet Method When you first start climbing up a rock or a mountain, you will notice that your footwork is appalling. Do not let this bring you down because everyone has terrible footwork when they start rock climbing for the first time. You should avoid looking up while climbing without paying attention to your feet to practice. To master the silent feet method, you should make very little noise while placing your feet on the footholds. The key is to be as silent as possible. This way, you will start paying more attention to footwork, making you a better climber down the line. Practice Falling There are many rock climbing benefits, but falling is not one. However, every rock climber knows that a fall is inevitable. It is best to spend some time purposely falling to learn how it feels. This will lower your chances of getting hurt when it happens in the real world. Remember to always keep your rope in front of your feet while climbing. This is because the rope can get tangled and cause you to do a backward flip when you fall. Always let your guide or partner know before coming off the wall during practice. Avoid pushing yourself off the wall with a lot of force. Otherwise, you will swing back straight away and collide with the wall with a lot of speed, which will add more pain. Keep Arms Straight This is the most important tip for rock climbing if you are a beginner. You cannot perform well if your arms are bent. This is because your arms need to support your body weight more than usual while climbing. You will become exhausted, and rock climbing may seem like a lost cause. Bending your arms will restrict your reach. To avoid making your climb harder than it already is, always practice stretching your arms out. There is a reason why we do not bend our arms while carrying shopping bags. We need all our strength. Work Your Core Core strength while climbing will be more important than upper body strength. Give your core a good workout before a climb. The best thing to do is practice Pilates, gymnastics, or yoga. If those are not your favorite exercises, you can find many strength training videos online that can help engage your core to get you ready for a climbing expedition. Always Climb Safely Now that you know the best rock climbing tips for beginners, it is time to stretch those arms and strengthen your core to get ready for the expedition. Remember to warm up to avoid serious injury. Wake up early before a climb and do some leg swings, jumping jacks, push-ups, and squats. These will loosen your muscles while making you more alert. If you enjoyed reading this rock climbing guide, check out some of our other posts for more information. Read Also: A Guide To Planning Your First Family Ski Trip 10 Best Places To Travel In February – Travel Guide 2022 10 Best Places To Travel In March – Travel Guide 2022  

READ MORE card-img

6 Best Destinations For A Safari In Kenya

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 2, 2023

Kenya, located in East Africa, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and incredible safari experiences. With a rich diversity of ecosystems, including vast savannahs, dense forests, and stunning coastal regions, Kenya offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of nature from very close. If you are planning for a safari trip in Kenya, the first step would be to book your flight tickets, accommodation and get a visa. To make the visa process simpler, you can also apply online and get an evisa Kenya. You should then look for the best-guided tours with reputable safari operators to make the most of your safari adventure. They can customize your itinerary, provide knowledgeable guides, and ensure safety and comfort. It's also crucial to prioritize responsible and sustainable tourism practices, respecting wildlife and supporting local communities. Best time to Visit Kenya When planning your safari in Kenya, it's essential to consider the best time to visit. From June to October, the dry season is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, and vegetation is less dense. The dry season in Kenya is generally considered the best time for wildlife viewing. With less rainfall, animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them. The vegetation is also less dense, providing clearer views. June and July are particularly popular months as they coincide with the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores cross the Mara River. However, the wet season, from November to May, brings lush landscapes, newborn animals, and a plethora of birdlife. Best safari experience in Kenya Here’s a list of the six best destinations in Kenya that you should consider for an adventurous safari experience. 1. Maasai Mara National Reserve: Maasai Mara is perhaps Kenya's most famous wildlife reserve, if not in all of Africa. Known for its annual wildebeest migration, where millions of animals cross the Mara River, the reserve offers an awe-inspiring spectacle. Besides the migration, Maasai Mara boasts an impressive variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras. The vast open plains and rolling hills provide an ideal backdrop for game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and photography enthusiasts. Derive benefit from the avenue to communicate with the local Maasai people and learn about their vibrant culture and traditions 2. Amboseli National Park: Amboseli National Park is positioned at the hilltop of Mount Kilimanjaro, famous for its stunning views of Africa's highest peak. The park's vast grasslands are home to large herds of elephants known for their distinctive tusks. Besides elephants, Amboseli offers excellent wildlife sightings, including buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and various bird species. The park's unique landscape, with swamps, marshes, and acacia woodlands, provides a picturesque setting for photography enthusiasts. Remember to visit Observation Hill, which offers panoramic views of the entire park and the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. 3. Tsavo National Park: Tsavo National Park, divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Known for its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Tsavo offers a truly wild and untamed safari experience. Tsavo East is characterized by vast plains, ancient baobab trees, and the flowing Galana River, which attracts a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes. Tsavo West is famous for its diverse terrain, including volcanic hills, dense forests, and the stunning Mzima Springs, where you can watch hippos and crocodiles underwater. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an orphanage sanctuary for rhinos and elephants. 4. Samburu National Reserve: Samburu National Reserve offers a distinct and captivating safari experience in Kenya's northern region. The reserve is acknowledged for its rare wildlife species, including the "Samburu Special Five": the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Grevy's zebra, gerenuk, and beisa oryx. Additionally, Samburu is home to elephants, lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The Ewaso Ng'iro River flows through the reserve, attracting a wide range of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Samburu's rugged landscapes, with arid plains and rocky outcrops, create a unique and breathtaking setting for game drives and nature walks. 5. Lake Nakuru National Park: For bird lovers, Lake Nakuru National Park is a must-visit destination. Located around the picturesque Lake Nakuru, the park is a haven for bird species, including thousands of flamingos that flock to the alkaline lake. The park's diverse habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and cliffs, provide a home for over 450 bird species. Apart from the stunning birdlife, Lake Nakuru National Park also houses numerous types of wildlife. The park is recognized for its endangered population of black and white rhinos, making it one of the esteemed destinations in Kenya to recognize these magnificent creatures. Additionally, you can encounter lions, leopards, buffalos, zebras, and giraffes during your safari adventures. The park's diverse habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and acacia forests, support various animal and plant species, making each safari excursion a thrilling and rewarding experience. 6. Laikipia Plateau: The Laikipia Plateau offers a unique safari experience, known for its exclusive lodges and conservation-focused tourism. This vast area is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Grevy's zebras, black rhinos, and reticulated giraffes. You can participate in game drives, walking safaris, and even visit local communities to learn about their traditional culture and conservation efforts. The Laikipia Plateau is located in central Kenya and offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path safari experience. It is a vast, privately owned area known for its conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices. The region is characterized by a mix of open grasslands, rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and riverine forests, creating diverse habitats for a wide range of wildlife. Conclusion Kenya offers an incredible safari experience with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you witness the grandeur of the Maasai Mara, the unique species of Samburu, or the birdlife of Lake Nakuru, each destination will leave you in awe of nature's wonders. Embark on a journey to Kenya and create lifelong memories of thrilling adventures. You can go on game drives, watch stunning sunsets, and have close encounters with majestic wildlife. The vastness of Tsavo National Parks, as well as the avian wonders of Lake Nakuru make its beauty extraordinary. A safari in Kenya promises to be a journey of discovery. It will immerse you in the untamed wonders of nature and leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.