Friendly and fun, Flagstaff is a brilliant destination for families or couples looking to soak up the wonders of the great outdoors. A laid-back college town surrounded by spectacular landscapes, this charming hub offers a good selection of accommodation options for a range of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Flagstaff are within easy reach of both the town centre and Northern Arizona’s many attractions.
Stroll the streets of the historic downtown area on foot to discover buzzing eateries, live music venues and excellent museums. Highlights for culture aficionados include the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, Heritage Square and the Coconino Centre for the Arts. Don’t miss the Lowell Observatory, the Arboretum or Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, either. Northern Arizona University is based in Flagstaff, and there’s an appealingly creative vibe to the many cafés, craft beer-focused bars and lively evening events.
Beyond Flagstaff itself is the USA’s largest ponderosa pine forest — the enormous Coconino National Forest. Outdoorsy adventurers will adore hiking, skiing, mountain biking and wildlife-spotting. There’s plenty of scope for horse riding, kayaking, golf or rock climbing, too. Take a trip to quirky Sedona, just 45 minutes away by road, for more heritage sites, bohemian boutiques and striking scenery.
Whether you’re an adventurous couple or an active family, the best places to stay in Flagstaff promise a seriously special base from which to experience the many marvels of Northern Arizona.