Wupatki National Monument
Step back in time at Wupatki National Monument, where the ancient Puebloan people etched their story onto the high desert landscape. This archaeological wonder, comprising ruins of pueblos, ball courts, and petroglyphs, offers a captivating glimpse into the ingenious civilization that thrived here nearly 800 years ago. Wander the mesmerizing Wupatki Pueblo, a expertly crafted dwelling with over 100 rooms and a striking ceremonial ball court. Or marvel at the iconic Citadel and Lomaki ruins, perched atop the cinder cones like watchful sentinels. The monument’s scenic trails meander through fields of volcanic cinders, affording sweeping vistas of the Painted Desert’s fiery hues and the majestic San Francisco Peaks. Listen closely as your guide regales tales of the Puebloans’ sophisticated agriculture, community planning, and intricate masonry. By the time you bid farewell to Wupatki, you’ll have gained a profound appreciation for this ancient culture’s remarkable resourcefulness and resilience.
Address: North Wupatki Loop Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Phone: 928-679-2365
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
One of Flagstaff’s architectural icons, the Riordan Mansion transports you to the Gilded Age opulence of the early 1900s. This impressive Arts and Crafts-style estate, nestled on a knoll amid mature pines, was home to two wealthy timber families – the Riordans and the Babbitt-Polsons. As you wander the 40-room manse and manicured grounds on a guided tour, be swept away by the intricate woodwork, exquisite stained glass, and museum-quality furnishings that adorn every corner. Highlights include the Great Room with its inviting fireplace, the cozy library stocked with over 7,000 books, and the beautifully preserved kitchen that gives a glimpse into the lives of the household staff. The on-site visitor center showcases engaging exhibits on the families’ legacies and Flagstaff’s rich timber heritage. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or simply crave a taste of old-world grandeur, the Riordan Mansion is sure to leave you enchanted.
Address: 409 W Riordan Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-779-4395
Historic Downtown Flagstaff
At the heart of Flagstaff beats a lively, eclectic spirit embodied in its dynamic historic downtown. This vibrant district, with its charming century-old buildings, indie boutiques, lively brewpubs, and frequent street fairs, is a magnet for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Flagstaff culture. Kick off your explorations at Heritage Square, a shaded oasis brimming with public art, buzzing cafes, and the heritage Flagstaff Visitor Center. Wander the brick-lined streets and discover a delightful mix of galleries, record shops, and artisanal eateries around every corner. Don’t miss the chance to sip a craft beer at the beloved Historic Brewing Company, or savor eclectic Southwestern fare at the acclaimed Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar. As evening falls, revel in the lively music scene at venues like The Green Room or the Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge. With its infectious energy and rich heritage, Downtown Flagstaff encapsulates the vibrant spirit of this mountain town.
Address: N Leroux St & W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-213-2951
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Nature’s raw power is on full display at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. This otherworldly landscape, a painter’s dream, centers around the 1,000-foot-tall cinder cone that erupted in a brilliant shower nearly 1,000 years ago. As you traverse the monument’s trails, be awestruck by the stark, twisted lava flows that spilled across the high desert like liquid obsidian frozen in time. The Lenny Canyon Trail affords a breathtaking vista of the cinder cone’s fiery hues set against the deep azure sky. Or opt for the Lenox Crater Trail to hike amid the scruffy ponderosa pines reclaiming this barren, volcanic wonderland. Keep your eyes peeled for elk and mule deer that call the monument home. With its primal allure and a glimpse into our planet’s explosive origins, Sunset Crater is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Address: 6082 Sunset Crater Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Phone: 928-526-0502
Lowell Observatory
For budding stargazers and science enthusiasts, no Flagstaff visit would be complete without a tour of the illustrious Lowell Observatory. Established in 1894 by the pioneering astronomer Percival Lowell, this renowned research facility has been the site of groundbreaking discoveries, including the first detection of the expanding universe and the prediction of the existence of the Planet X – later identified as dwarf planet Pluto. Guided tours whisk you through the observatory’s historic buildings, pausing at the iconic 24-inch Clark Refractor Telescope that Lowell himself used to study Mars and Venus. You can also peer through the modern-day telescopes, subject to cloud cover, and even attend a fascinating multimedia show at the Putnam Collection Center to learn about Flagstaff’s unique role in unraveling the universe’s mysteries. With equal parts history and stargazing wonder, Lowell Observatory leaves you star-struck and enlightened.
Address: 1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-774-3358
Museum of Northern Arizona
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Native American cultures and the ruggedly beautiful Colorado Plateau at the acclaimed Museum of Northern Arizona. This world-class institution shines a spotlight on the anthropology, biology, geology, and art of Arizona’s high country through its engaging exhibits and research efforts. The Southwest galleries provide a window into the deep traditions and lifestyles of indigenous tribes like the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni through intricate weavings, pottery, and ceremonial regalia. Nature lovers can marvel at the museum’s extensive wildlife dioramas and paleontological wonders, including an awe-inspiring mastodon skeleton. Meanwhile, art connoisseurs will revel in the masterful works of the Munich-based Taos Society of Artists who captured the region’s mesmerizing vistas. Complementing the exhibits are serene nature trails winding through gardens brimming with native plants. With its trove of treasures spanning millennia, the Museum of Northern Arizona is an enriching experience for all.
Address: 3101 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-774-5213
Historic Breweries
No exploration of Flagstaff’s vibrant culture would be complete without a pilgrimage to its storied breweries. This mountain town has birthed an impressive craft beer scene, with several pioneering brewhouses that have stood the test of time. Leading the pack is the Historic Brewing Company, nestled in a lovingly restored 1900s lodge. Belly up to the bar for a pint of their signature Pie Hole Porter or the crisp, citrusy Pie Hole Pale Ale while admiring the cozy, log cabin ambiance. A stone’s throw away is Beaver Street Brewery, where you can sip innovative brews like the Skunk Canyon Imperial Stout or the Tippy Sour Ale along with tasty wood-fired pizzas. For a more contemporary vibe, head to Mother Road Brewing Company and delight in their award-winning offerings, including the Milkshake Marg Gose and the Tower Station IPA. With their warm, inviting tasting rooms and masterfully crafted beers, these breweries embody the authentic, free-spirited soul of Flagstaff.
Address: 7 S Mikes Pike St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-774-9630
Walnut Canyon National Monument
For a journey into the ancestral Puebloan world that will leave you breathless, Walnut Canyon National Monument is an absolute must. This stunning canyon, carved from the Colorado Plateau, harbors a profound legacy in the form of the elaborately constructed cliff dwellings that cling tenaciously to its sheer limestone walls. The Island Trail, a strenuous but rewarding 1-mile loop, treats you to up-close views of these remarkably preserved 700-year-old stone homes and granaries suspended 25 feet up the canyon walls. Pause to imagine the daily life of the Sinagua people who called this rugged yet bountiful canyon home between 1100 and 1250 CE. Your experienced guide regales you with tales of their sophisticated building techniques, agricultural innovations, and cultural traditions that allowed them to thrive in this unforgiving environment. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the resident falcons or golden eagles soaring majestically above this ancient, hallowed ground.
Address: 3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Phone: 928-526-3367
Plan Your Trip With Party Bus Flagstaff
With so many hidden gems to uncover, planning your Flagstaff getaway is half the fun. But don’t let the logistics bog you down – leave the transportation to the pros at Party Bus Flagstaff. Our experienced team will arrange a luxurious charter bus to whisk you and your travel crew from one incredible attraction to the next, all while you relax in style. Simply call us at 928-707-8906, share your dream Flagstaff itinerary, and let us handle the rest. From historic downtown bar-hopping to awe-inspiring monuments under the vast Arizona sky, we’ll make sure you experience every bit of Flagstaff’s magic with zero hassle. Your unforgettable mountain town adventure starts here!