Flagstaff is deemed “Arizona’s destination for all seasons” and it is so true. There are plenty of things to do in Flagstaff whether you are just stopping in at the Little America the night before your Grand Canyon rafting adventure, or you’ve planned your vacation around action at the Snowbowl! Flagstaff is definitely worth a stop. 

Flagstaff Eats

The food scene in Flagstaff has vastly improved in recent years offering cuisine everyone can enjoy. Pizzicletta deserves first on the list for their exquisite, wood-fired pizza. The offer the traditional margarita, as well as other pies with unique, sophisticated toppings. The ingredients that they use are unparalleled and you can truly taste how fresh everything is. Order a glass of wine, a few pies for the table, and whatever you do, please get the olive oil gelato. You’ll thank me later. 

Lunchtime Snacks

Proper Meats is a favorite lunch spot of mine, as well as a take-away butcher. They maintain the highest of quality in everything that they serve: from sausages to steak, and salmon to an insane veggie burger. They even make their own beef dog food, so truly, all are pleased. This spot is a must for grabbing goodies to grill out at your campsite! Going the more glamping route? Enjoy one of their artisan sandos with a cold kombucha. 

Breakfast Options

Breakfast, the most important meal of the day, cannot be fulfilled with a drive-thru muffin. Make the time for a stop at the Tourist Home Cafe. Their breakfast burrito is the best I’ve ever had…so good, you won’t even need hot sauce. They also have a fried chicken, biscuits and gravy that will absolutely start your day off right. They always have homemade and delicious pastries, as well as a barista that can make you the perfect wake-up concoction! 

There are other places that you cannot go wrong visiting, such as Pato for Thai food, Wisk & Whiskey for delicious comfort food, outside of the downtown crowds, and MartAnnes for a Bloody Mary with all the fixings!

Flagstaff Drinks

Flagstaff can definitely hold its own when it comes to drinks. Home of Mother Road’s Tower Station and Historic Brewing’s Piehole Porter, we have got you covered with beer. Mother Road has an authentic, rustic feel with friendly staff that will make you feel at home. Dark Sky Brewery is another local brewery to visit! They have a wide range of beer styles, including sours and they have a fun, hip vibe. 

Cocktails

As far as cocktails go, the Annex is a must! They have an entire book of cocktails; anything and everything you can imagine! My personal favorite is the Thelonious Monk, a delicate mezcal drink served in a coupe glass. The Cornish Pasty is another popular watering hole. They have a full bar with a fun, British-inspired aesthetic and menu. 

Flagstaff Hikes

The hiking options in Flagstaff are endless! The most well-known would-be Humphreys Peak, the highest mountain in Arizona, coming in at 12,637 ft in elevation. This trail is well maintained and a gorgeous hike through the Coconino National Forest. Those heading to the top will enjoy 10.4 miles of hiking. There are some false summits, so don’t give up, you will know when you make it to the top! Rumor has it, that on clear days, you can see the Grand Canyon from the top. 

Another favorite, yet ambitious trail is Elden Lookout Trail. This is a 6.3 mile hike in East Flagstaff. The best times to go are between April and November. 

Fatmans Loop trail is a more attainable route, rounding out at only 2.4 miles. This makes for an excellent morning or evening jaunt. The trail rises and falls in elevation, only slightly, making it a fun journey that doesn’t completely wipe you out. Dogs are allowed on all of these trails. 

Other Activities

Other Flagstaff activities include participating in the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course. Here you will go through different obstacles, such as rope walls, hanging nets, scrambling walls, and zip lines. They offer adult courses, kid courses, and zip line adventures. Not to mention, all of this is taking place in the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine forest! 

Ride Up Mt. Humphreys

Another worthwhile activity a little more on the relaxing side is riding in the Arizona Gondola at Snowbowl. This ride takes guests up 11,500 ft in elevation, allowing them to see the beauty of the surrounding area. The Arizona Gondola operates 10 AM – 4 PM daily. 

Downtown Shopping

Last but not least, take a stroll downtown and do some shopping! There are several beautifully curated antique shops, including Victorian Moon, as well as several outdoors stores. Peace Surplus is a personal favorite amongst these. Finally, check out Winter Sun Trading Co. They have all sorts of herbal tinctures and teas, as well as authentic Native American jewelry and Kachina Dolls.

Flagstaff is not just a stop on the way to check out the South Rim of Grand Canyon. Flagstaff is a town filled with kind people, fun adventures, and delicious eats and drinks! Stopping into town will make your trip to the Grand Canyon, even grander.  

If you enjoyed this post you might like Christina’s article about other attractions near Flagstaff and Grand Canyon.