15 Cool and Unexpected Things to Do in Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff isn’t just a pitstop between the Grand Canyon and Sedona—it’s a storybook town shaped by fire, starlight, and time. Perched at 7,000 feet in the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the world, this high-altitude haven blends vintage Americana with ancient volcanic soil. It also incorporates Indigenous heritage and a quiet devotion to the stars.
I’ve passed through Flagstaff four times now, and each time it leaves a different impression. One visit brought snow, another wildflowers. Once I chased the sunset through lava fields, and once I just wandered its old streets with coffee in hand. No matter the season, this place hums with a grounded magic that sneaks up on you.
Long before trains echoed through the red-brick depot, this land belonged to the Sinagua, Hopi, and Navajo. They left their stories etched into canyon walls and basalt rock. In 1876, settlers raised an American flag on a pine to celebrate the Centennial, giving the town its name—Flagstaff. A few years later, the arrival of the railroad transformed it into a frontier boomtown for lumber, cattle, and restless westward dreams. By the 20th century, it gained cosmic significance when Pluto was discovered here at Lowell Observatory. This event cast Flagstaff’s gaze forever skyward.
Whether you’re hiking lava flows older than memory, sipping whiskey beneath string lights, or watching snow fall on Route 66, Flagstaff hums with a quiet, resilient kind of wonder. It’s the kind that stays with you long after the road winds on.
If you’re searching for the most memorable things to do in Flagstaff, from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar magic, this guide offers 15 stops worth slowing down for.
And if your journey takes you further, don’t miss my related guides:
→Top 15 Unique Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona (2025)
→Ultimate Grand Canyon Travel Guide (2025)
1. Tour the Lowell Observatory After Dark
If you’re looking for things to do in Flagstaff that connect you to something bigger than yourself, Lowell Observatory is a must. Founded in 1894, this historic hilltop site is where Pluto was discovered. The stars have been whispering stories ever since.
By day, it’s a charming place to learn about astronomy. But come nightfall, it becomes something else entirely. The telescopes open, the air cools, and the dark sky above Flagstaff (an official Dark Sky City) comes alive with constellations, planets, and quiet awe. The observatory staff offers guided stargazing programs. They let you look through the same kind of lenses scientists use to study deep space.
Whether you’re tracing the rings of Saturn, watching the moon in crisp detail, or just standing still under the cosmos, Lowell Observatory reminds you how vast and beautiful the universe really is.
It’s not just science—it’s soul. And it’s one of the most unforgettable things to do in Flagstaff, especially if you believe in wonder.
2. Hike the Lava Tubes (Bring a Headlamp)
Want one of the most mind-bending things to do in Flagstaff? Head 30 minutes northwest and crawl into the Lava River Cave—a mile-long tunnel formed by molten lava nearly 700,000 years ago.
Locals call it the Lava Tubes, and it’s exactly what it sounds like: a pitch-black cave carved by fire. Inside, you’ll climb over sharp volcanic rock, squeeze through low passages, and walk in total silence beneath the surface of the earth. It’s cold (around 40°F all year), weirdly magical, and absolutely unforgettable.
Bring a solid headlamp, wear sturdy shoes, and skip the flip-flops—this isn’t a walk in the park. It’s raw, unlit, and completely self-guided. But if you’re looking to make your Flagstaff adventure a little more primal, this underground trail delivers.
3. Touch the Sky on Humphreys Peak
If you’re chasing elevation, Humphreys Peak tops the list of unforgettable things to do in Flagstaff. Standing at 12,637 feet, it’s the highest point in Arizona. Reaching the summit feels like unlocking a secret between you and the sky.
The trail is no joke: a 10-mile round trip with steep switchbacks, loose volcanic rock, and thinning air that tests your grit. But the reward? Panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Grand Canyon on a clear day. Wildflowers bloom along the lower ridges in summer, and snow often lingers into early June.
This isn’t just a hike—it’s a rite of passage. If you’re willing to climb, the mountain will meet you with silence, wind, and awe.
4. Wander Through Time at Walnut Canyon National Monument
If you’re looking for things to do in Flagstaff that go beyond the usual, Walnut Canyon is a must. Just 10 miles from downtown, this stunning national monument invites you to walk among the ancient cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people, who carved their homes into the canyon walls over 800 years ago.
Take the Island Trail and descend into the heart of the canyon, where you’ll pass dozens of remarkably preserved dwellings tucked into limestone alcoves. It’s not just a hike—it’s a quiet journey through time. Or stay above on the Rim Trail for sweeping views and easy access to interpretive signs and reconstructed pueblos.
This is one of those rare places where nature and archaeology meet, where every step feels like a conversation with the past. Whether you’re a history lover, a hiker, or just someone looking to connect more deeply with the Southwest, Walnut Canyon delivers.
5. Witness the Power of Grand Falls
One of the most surprising things to do in Flagstaff is to watch a waterfall taller than Niagara thunder across the northern Arizona plains. Grand Falls, also known as “Chocolate Falls,” flows with muddy, dramatic force during spring snowmelt or after a strong monsoon.
Located on Navajo land about an hour from Flagstaff, this seasonal waterfall roars to life over ancient lava flows left by nearby Merriam Crater. The landscape feels raw and windswept, with a rugged beauty all its own. When it’s flowing, Grand Falls is mesmerizing—wide, muddy, and loud. When it’s dry, it’s still a fascinating geological site with panoramic views.
Visit in late March through early May for the best chance to see it in full flow. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and always respect Navajo Nation guidelines while visiting.
It’s not just a scenic detour—it’s an epic reminder of how wild and unpredictable Arizona’s landscapes can be.
6. Try the Barefoot Trail Near Bellemont
Looking for things to do in Flagstaff that are a little offbeat and deeply grounding? Just west of town, near Bellemont, you’ll find a short trail specifically designed for walking barefoot—no shoes, no distractions, just earth underfoot.
This seasonal trail invites you to practice earthing, the act of connecting directly with nature through the soles of your feet. The textures vary—smooth stones, cool soil, soft pine needles—and the experience is surprisingly meditative. It’s not just quirky—it’s calming, energizing, and strangely addictive.
Heads-up: the trail closes during the winter months (for obvious, frostbite-related reasons), so check online before you go. Open seasons typically span late spring through early fall, depending on snowmelt.
For adventurous travelers craving something unexpected, this trail is a small but powerful reminder to slow down and really feel the place you’re in.
7. Embark on the Flagstaff Brewery Trail
If you’re thirsty for a good time (and a good IPA), one of the best things to do in Flagstaff is to hop your way through the Flagstaff Brewery Trail. This self-guided adventure takes you through the town’s thriving craft beer scene—think hazy IPAs, crisp lagers, smooth stouts, and even a meadery thrown in for good measure.
Start by grabbing a free digital passport at craftbeerflg.com, or pick up a physical one from the Flagstaff Visitor Center. As you visit each local brewery—like Dark Sky, Mother Road, Lumberyard, and Wanderlust—you’ll collect stamps or check in virtually. Once you complete the trail, you can claim a commemorative pint glass that says, “Yes, I came. I sipped. I conquered.”
The best part? No purchase is required to participate, though you’ll probably want to try at least a flight at each stop. Just make sure to plan ahead, check hours, and arrange a designated driver if you’re doing the full loop.
It’s a fun, flavorful way to experience the heart of Flagstaff—one pour at a time.
8. Catch a Show at The Orpheum Theater
Looking for atmospheric things to do in Flagstaff after dark? Step into the vintage charm of The Orpheum Theater, a historic venue that’s been entertaining locals since 1917. Originally a vaudeville house, it’s now a community icon that hosts everything from indie bands and comedy nights to film festivals and spoken word.
With its exposed brick walls, moody lighting, and old-school marquee, The Orpheum feels like a time capsule—yet the programming is anything but outdated. Think touring musicians, regional acts, cult movie screenings, and even quirky themed dance parties. It’s the kind of place where you might catch a bluegrass set one night and a sci-fi double feature the next.
Check the lineup ahead of your visit—there’s almost always something going on. And even if you’re not into live shows, just walking by the glowing marquee at night is worth it.
9. Explore Sunset Crater Volcano & Wupatki National Monument
If you’re hunting for unique things to do in Flagstaff, don’t miss Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. Just 15 miles from town, this otherworldly landscape was born from a volcanic eruption around 1085 A.D. Today, you can hike through jagged lava flows and cinder fields that look straight out of a sci-fi film.
The Lava Flow Trail offers an easy loop with up-close views of black rock, twisted trees, and the dramatic base of the crater (climbing is no longer allowed to protect the fragile landscape). Bonus: it’s part of a scenic loop that also includes Wupatki National Monument—perfect for a half-day adventure.
Whether you’re into geology, photography, or just jaw-dropping views, this is one of Flagstaff’s coolest detours.
10. Wander Through The Arboretum at Flagstaff
If you’re looking for one of the most peaceful things to do in Flagstaff, head to the Arboretum—a 200-acre botanical garden tucked into the ponderosa pine forest at 7,150 feet elevation. With over 750 native plant species from the Colorado Plateau and panoramic views of the San Francisco Peaks, this spot invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Explore wildflower meadows, woodland trails, display gardens, and greenhouses. It’s a family-friendly and pet-friendly destination that offers guided walks, birdwatching, and seasonal art exhibits. If you time it right, you might catch a raptor talk or a sunset concert.
Visitor Info:
- Season: April 30 to October 26, 2025
- Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM (last admission at 3:15 PM)
- Admission:
- Adults (18+): $12
- Youth (5–17): $6
- Kids under 5: Free
- Dogs (on leash): $2
Heads up: The Arboretum is located 3 miles down a Forest Service dirt road, which can get tricky in bad weather. Make sure your vehicle can handle rough terrain, especially if it’s rained recently.
11. Explore the Ghost Town Ruins of Two Guns, Arizona
Just 30 minutes east of Flagstaff, Two Guns is one of the most hauntingly beautiful stops you can make along the old Route 66. Once a booming tourist trap with wild west shows, a zoo, and a gas station, it now crumbles into poetic ruin. Graffiti-covered stone walls and craggy remnants overlook the canyon, whispering stories of betrayal, bandits, and boomtown dreams gone ghost.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Flagstaff and don’t mind a short drive, this abandoned relic is both eerie and cinematic—perfect for photos and reflection. Just be careful where you step, and bring your imagination.
12. Take a Blacksmithing Class in Flagstaff
Still searching for unique things to do in Flagstaff? Try your hand at blacksmithing—it’s unforgettable. After a scenic drive, head to The Quench. I’ve taken a class here, and it’s seriously fun. There’s something primal and powerful about shaping molten metal with fire, force, and rhythm. With each swing, sparks fly. The forge roars. Time slows. Meanwhile, your hands learn to create something lasting.
Whether you’re crafting your first blade or just curious to try something new, The Quench offers workshops for beginners and hobbyists alike. It’s not just a class; it’s a full-on experience that connects you to an ancient craft in a modern setting.
13. Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad
Take a scenic train ride through red rock cliffs and wild canyons. Just one hour from Flagstaff, this heritage railroad glides along the Verde River. You’ll pass ancient Sinagua ruins, historic trestles, and soaring eagles. Open-air cars offer fresh air and epic views.
It’s one of the best day trips from Flagstaff—and perfect for all ages. Trains depart year-round from Clarkdale. Book in advance, especially during fall foliage or holiday specials. Add this to your list of unique things to do in Arizona—you won’t regret it.
13. Stand at the Edge of an Ancient Impact at Meteor Crater
Just 40 minutes east of Flagstaff, you’ll find one of Earth’s best-preserved impact sites—Meteor Crater. Formed 50,000 years ago, this massive bowl was carved by a space rock traveling 26,000 mph. Today, it still stuns. Nearly a mile wide and over 550 feet deep, the scale is hard to grasp—until you’re standing at the rim. It’s otherworldly. You almost expect a spaceship to rise from the dust. Even NASA thought so—astronauts once trained here for the moon landing. It’s windy, wild, and weird in the best way. And humbling, too. Few places remind you so clearly: we’re just passengers on a rock in space.
14. Sip a Ghost-Approved Cocktail at Monte Vista Lounge
After a day of hiking, biking, or chasing waterfalls, there’s no better way to unwind than with a perfectly mixed drink. Just steps from downtown’s bustle, the historic Hotel Monte Vista offers a cocktail lounge that feels like stepping back in time.
Tucked inside this storied hotel, the bar oozes old-school charm—with just the right amount of eerie. Local legends tell of ghostly bellboys and unexplained whispers, but it’s the ambiance that truly haunts you: low lighting, deep velvet booths, and a playlist that sounds like it’s been spinning for decades.
Whether you’re craving a smoked old fashioned or something seasonal, this is the kind of place that invites you to slow down, sip, and soak in Flagstaff’s strange, timeless soul.
Final Thoughts: A Town That Whispers and Roars
Flagstaff may not shout for attention the way its famous neighbors do—but that’s its charm. It doesn’t need to. Instead, this mountain town quietly invites you to listen—to the crunch of pine needles underfoot, to the stories etched in volcanic stone, to the wind curling through the aspens. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, stargazing through telescopes, biking the Arizona Trail, or simply watching the golden hour melt over Route 66, Flagstaff offers a little bit of everything: wonder, wilderness, and something wildly timeless.
Beyond that, if you’re carving out your Arizona itinerary, don’t stop here. Dive deeper into the region with my guides on:
→ 50 Adventures Across Arizona
→ Top 15 Unique Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona (2025)
→ Ultimate Grand Canyon Travel Guide (2025)
