Flagstaff Hot Spots to Cool in Arizona

Smack dab in the middle of the world’s largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff is at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The resulting temperate weather allows for hiking, mountain biking and outdoor concerts as well as fishing, camping, horseback riding and paddle boarding available on the gentle waters of nearby Lake Mary. Grand Canyon National Park, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Wupatki National Monument and Meteor Crater are all within easy driving distance. Beyond this, outdoor adventurers can ride up Snowbowl via a scenic chairlift to Arizona’s highest point on the San Francisco Peaks. Try one of the sky-high obstacle courses with zip lines, suspension bridges and rope swings at Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course.

Those looking to wine and dine in the pines are also in luck as Flagstaff has a burgeoning culinary scene, especially in its downtown area. Among the most notable spots are Atria, which earned a 2022 James Beard Award nomination; Teatro, the area’s newest exquisite fine dining offering; Tinderbox Kitchen, a 2022 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner; SHIFT, which has some of the best shared plate offerings in Arizona; Pizzicletta, simple pizza that will rock your world; and Oeno, a chic wine lounge perfect for date night. Breweries also abound, including several within walking distance of each other in Mother Road, Lumberyard, Historic Brewing Barrel + Bottle House, Wanderlust, Beaver Street and Dark Sky.

As for accommodations, there are two new kids on the block that are causing a major stir. High Country Motor Lodge features a Nordic spa as well as one of the best mixology bars in town, and Americana Motor Hotel, which opened this past spring, as a retro-futuristic oasis reimagining the classic roadside retreat.

For the younger set, nearby Williams offers the unique experience of Bearizona. Set on 160 acres, visitors drive through natural habitats of North American animals. There are also walk-thru wildlife exhibits and educational animal encounters.