Whether you’re coming from the north, west, east or south roads, once you approach the Northern Arizona territory, sooner or later you’ll find yourself smack dab in the city of Flagstaff. Situated at the crossroads point where Interstate 40, Interstate 17 and Highway 89 intersect, Flagstaff has been welcoming tourists passing by to see the Grand Canyon for years.
But don’t easily dismiss Flagstaff as just another road stop. After all, Flagstaff didn’t get the nickname “City of Seven Wonders” for nothing.
Aside from being the gateway to the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff is surrounded by some of Arizona’s natural wonders namely, Coconino National Forest, Oak Creek Canyon, Walnut Canyon, Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater National Monument, and the San Francisco Peaks. Humphrey’s Peak, the highest summit among the San Francisco Peaks and in all of Arizona, is located just 11 miles north of Flagstaff.
With the combination of the city’s elevated location, low humidity, and the surrounding pine forests, Flagstaff experiences mild weather conditions ideal for exploring and enjoying the diverse and natural beauty of the great Flagstaff outdoors. While the sun may be a bit intense during the daytime due to the altitude, Flagstaff nights are particularly chilly.
Flagstaff also has an equally diverse history ranging from Native American tribes to its early pioneer settlers. Learn more about the rich history and culture of Flagstaff as you make your way to the historic downtown district where you can find a number of early 20th infrastructures like the Hotel Weatherford and the Orpheum Theater still in operation along with the remaining motor courts and vintage courts from the old Route 66 days and museums that showcase the diverse influences that shaped Flagstaff.
Numerous weekend festivals are held throughout the year. Seasonal festivals include the Hopi and Navajo Festivals of Arts and Crafts, Pride in the Pines, the Arizona Highland Celtic Festival, and the Made in the Shade Beer Tasting Festival during the summer months and the spring Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival.