Flagstaff Attractions & Arizona Monuments

Flagstaff attractions include some of the most iconic places in the American Southwest. Flagstaff is the gateway city to Grand Canyon National Park, but that's just the beginning of what is to experience here. There are seasonal waterfalls such as Grand Falls, Sycamore Canyon Falls and many others that appear in the spring and after monsoon rains. From lava tube caves, meteor craters, and dinosaur footprints to ancient Indian ruins, Flagstaff and the immediate surrounding areas are full of incredible things. There are a few very worthwhile attractions in Flagstaff itself, but as an outdoor mecca, you'll find that there's an infinite amount of incredible things to see just a short drive out of town depending on what your interests are. Here are a few the the most popular things to see and do if you're only here for a short time:

Walnut Canyon

Come gaze across curved canyon walls! Among the remarkable geological formations of the canyon itself, the former homes of ancient inhabitants are easily evident. Along the trails, you can imagine life within Walnut Canyon, while visiting actual pueblos and walking in the steps of those who came before.

Wupatki National Monument

Nestled between the Painted Desert and ponderosa highlands of northern Arizona, Wupatki is a landscape of legacies. Ancient pueblos dot red-rock outcroppings across miles of prairie. Where food and water seem impossible to find, people built pueblos, raised families, farmed, traded, and thrived. Today, if you linger and listen, earth and artifacts whisper their stories to us still.

Meteor Crater

The world’s best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth. Located just minutes from Interstate 40 in Northern Arizona near Winslow, Meteor Crater is the breath-taking result of a collision between an asteroid traveling 26,000 miles per hour and planet Earth approximately 50,000 years ago. Meteor Crater is nearly one mile across, 2.4 miles in circumference and more than 550 feet deep. It is an international tourist venue with outdoor observation trails, air-conditioned indoor viewing, widescreen movie theater, Interactive Discovery Center, unique gift and rock shop, and Astronaut Memorial Park at the Visitor Center located on the crater rim.

Lava Tube Cave

This mile-long lava tube cave was formed roughly 700,000 years ago by molten rock that erupted from a volcanic vent in nearby Hart Prairie. The top, sides and bottom of the flow cooled and solidified first, after which the insides of the lava river continued to flow emptying out the present cave.

Grand Falls

Like the chocolate waterfall in the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, these muddy falls are a sight to be seen. Known in the Southwest for its many tiers of water and wide stance, the Grand Falls are an incredible phenomenon. These falls were created by volcanic runoff from Merriam Crater and created a lava dam. Located 30 miles East of Flagstaff, this waterfall wonder sits on Navajo Nation land in the Painted Desert. The falls are fed by the snowmelt and rain from the White Mountains and flow into the Little Colorado River. For this reason, there are only specific times of year that the waterfalls are actually flowing. The best time to see the falls are during March-April and during monsoon season, which is typically July through early September.

Museum of Northern Arizona

The Museum was founded in 1928 by Harold S. Colton and Mary-Russell Ferrell Colton and was originally established to protect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of northern Arizona through research, collections, conservation and education. MNA's mission to inspire a sense of love and responsibility for the beauty and diversity of the Colorado Plateau through collecting, studying, interpreting, and preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Riordan Mansion

The Riordan brothers moved to Flagstaff in the 1880’s as managers and then owners of the largest employer, the Arizona Lumber and Timber Company. At the heart of the Flagstaff community for over 50 years, their efforts advocating for progressive improvements included educational facilities such as the Normal School, which grew into today’s Northern Arizona University and the creation of Coconino County with Flagstaff as its county seat. They also recruited scientific institutions, such as Lowell Observatory, and the Fort Valley Experimental Forest Station that continue to benefit Flagstaff residents today.

Seen by guided tour only, the interiors of the Riordan family homes look essentially as they did in 1904. The homes showcase all original family belongings including fine examples of early Stickley furniture.

Pioneer Museum

The Arizona Historical Society Pioneer Museum, formerly the 1908 Coconino County Hospital for the Indigent, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of Flagstaff and Northern Arizona. The museum features permanent and temporary exhibits exploring the historical development of the community and region.

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RECOMMENDED ATTRACTIONS AROUND FLAGSTAFF

Bearizona Wildlife Park - Williams, AZ

Welcome to Bearizona Wildlife Park. We are a Wildlife adventure, open year round.Located on 160 acres in the city of Williams Az. We are right off Route 66 on the way to the Grand Canyon, just a short drive from Sedona and Flagstaff. The park consists of a 3 mile drive thru and Fort Beariz
Welcome to Bearizona Wildlife Park. We are a Wildlife adventure, open year round.Located on 160 acres in the city of Williams Az. We are right off Route 66 on the way to the Grand Canyon, just a short drive from Sedona and Flagstaff. The park consists of a 3 mile drive thru and Fort Bearizona. In the drive thru, you will take your own vehicle or our Wild Ride Bus through pristine Natural habitats for many North American Species. In these free roaming areas You will see wolves, bears, bison, and many other large species that can come right up to your car. Where the drive thru ends Fort Bearizona begins. Park your car and come on in. This is where you will find our smaller animals like river otters and bobcats. The barnyard, which is our petting zoo and fun for all ages. The Raptor Free Flight program, where birds of prey fly right over your head. All Shows which include animal meet-n-greets and training presentations. Big Bear Gift shop, over 8,000 sq feet of treasures and also housing Arizona’s largest model train, a historically accurate replica of the railroad from Williams depot to the grand canyon. For dining options we have the Bearizona Grill for a quick snack or our themed Canyonlands restaurant where you can sit and have a hot meal and a cold beverage overlooking our remarkable jaguar enclosure. You can Hop on our website for all current show times and we hope you can come visit us soon. Not only will you learn about lots of Awesome North American animals but you will also have an amazing time while your doing it.

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring th

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course is an elevated obstacle course set in the tall Ponderosa Pines. It is securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. At Flagstaff Extreme, we believe the best family memories are usually ones that take place outdoors, so bring the entire family! There are 5 adult courses and 1 junior course with obstacles ranging from tarzan ropes, to wobbly bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets, ziplines, and even an aerial surf board!

Come Play in the Trees and explore the outdoors like you never have before!

To see our availability or book a reservation, check out www.flagstaffextreme.com or give us a call at 888-259-0125!

(See our website for age and height restrictions)


Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Leaving from Flagstaff, our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous

Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Leaving from Flagstaff, our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where you can peer off the edge at the mighty Colorado River!


Arizona Private Tours

Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and
Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and up to 6 guests on a completely customizable tour of Northern Arizona. For majestic private Grand Canyon tours to Verde Valley Wine tours & ghost towns in the Sedona area, we cover it all. Let us create the custom tour of your dreams and know that we want to make this a day that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Flag Tag AZ

Grab a high-tech vest and laser tag gun and explore FlagTagAZ’s multi-level, black-lit, interactive laser tag arena. Or channel your inner lumberjack and try your hand at axe throwing. With arcade games and a pizza cafe, FlagTagAZ specializes in serving your needs for food and fun. They lo
Grab a high-tech vest and laser tag gun and explore FlagTagAZ’s multi-level, black-lit, interactive laser tag arena. Or channel your inner lumberjack and try your hand at axe throwing. With arcade games and a pizza cafe, FlagTagAZ specializes in serving your needs for food and fun. They love to host families, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, non-profit, and corporate groups. Knife throwing at FlagTagAZ is an exciting new way to safely test your object flinging abilities. You can also enjoy a drink as they are now serving beer, wine, and mead. Located on the west side of Flagstaff with plenty of parking available for cars or even tour buses. The spacious facility can host groups of up to 150 people.

Best Grand Canyon Day Tour

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our profess

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.


Out Of Africa Wildlife Park - Camp Verde, AZ

Come see Tiger Splash show performed daily. Watch Bengal tigers in natural play as they "hunt" their caretakers. Open Monday-Sunday 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Just 40 minutes from Sedona.

Grand Canyon Railway - Williams, AZ

Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Nation
Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon National Park.

IMAX Grand Canyon National Geographic Visitor Center

Located 1 mile from the National Park South Rim Entrance. Go beyond the rim in the spectacular IMAX adventure film shown on a 6-story high screen. The Visitor Center also includes Pink Jeep Tours, Pizza Hut Express and the world famous National Geographic Store.

The Arboretum

Open to the public from May through October, The Arboretum at Flagstaff is home to 2,500 species of plants in greenhouses, gardens, and natural habitats. The Arboretum offers guided tours, school programs, and other events

Lowell Observatory

A privately owned astronomical research institution located in Flagstaff, Arizona. Best known for the discovery of Pluto. Each year, about 70,000 people visit the Observatory to learn about astronomy. Open daily.

Museum of Northern Arizona

Located just three miles north of Flagstaff, MNA features exhibits relating to anthropology, biology, geology, and fine art. The Museum has permanent and changing exhibits. Open daily for self-guided tours.

Haunted Downtown Flagstaff Segway Tour

Explore the streets of downtown Flagstaff—on foot, by bike, or via Segway—during this family-friendly sightseeing excursion, a great choice for first-time visitors. Hear stories of spooky ghost sightings and Wild West history, and learn fun facts about the city. A headset is provided so

Explore the streets of downtown Flagstaff—on foot, by bike, or via Segway—during this family-friendly sightseeing excursion, a great choice for first-time visitors. Hear stories of spooky ghost sightings and Wild West history, and learn fun facts about the city. A headset is provided so you don’t miss a word your guide says. Plus, choose from multiple times to easily fit this tour into your schedule.

  • Discover the haunted history of Flagstaff, Arizona
  • Opt to explore the local streets on foot, by bike, or via Segway
  • Headset provided, so you can hear your guide clearly
  • Choose from multiple times to best suit your schedule

  • Pioneer Museum

    Located in the historic Coconino County Hospital for the Indigent. Exhibits reflect Flagstaff and northern Arizona history, as well as ranching, logging, and transportation. Open Mon.–Sat. for self-guided tours.

    Riordan Mansion State Park

    Built in 1904 for two Riordan families, Riordan Mansion is an impressive example of gracious living and Arts and Crafts style architecture. Forty rooms, over 13,000 sq ft. Check the website for tour info and pricing.

    Flagstaff Area National Monuments

    Visit all three Flagstaff Area National Monuments: Walnut Canyon National Monument (7.5 miles), Sunset Crater Volcano (14 miles) and Wupatki National Monument (32 miles) are all nearby.

    Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour

    Once a part of the Wild Wild West, Flagstaff has a rich history of railroad expansion which brought about a number of colorful characters to the region. Discover the history of this desert city on a guided tour of downtown and learn about the city’s rapid growth during the 1800s. Listen

    Once a part of the Wild Wild West, Flagstaff has a rich history of railroad expansion which brought about a number of colorful characters to the region. Discover the history of this desert city on a guided tour of downtown and learn about the city’s rapid growth during the 1800s. Listen to ghostly tales of past residents as you follow your guide to several haunted locations.

  • Hunt for ghosts as you explore downtown Flagstaff
  • Listen to eerie tales of colorful western characters
  • A central meeting point makes for a seamless experience
  • A small group means more attention from your guide

  • OTHER FLAGSTAFF THINGS TO EXPERIENCE

    MORE COOL THINGS TO SEE & DO IN FLAGSTAFF