Northern Arizona Area Guide

Northern Arizona’s Outdoor Adventures

Northern Arizona is a massive playground for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting some of the most impressive geological wonders on earth. Just a short drive north of Flagstaff is the crown jewel of the American Southwest: Grand Canyon National Park. From awe-inspiring vistas to scenic hiking trails for all skill levels, it’s an absolute bucket-list experience.
 

Closer to town, there’s also the Walnut Canyon National Monument, where you can walk along a steep canyon wall and tour ancient cliff dwellings built over 700 years ago. Afterward, consider making the scenic drive to Slide Rock State Park. Famous for its smooth, 80-foot sandstone chute, this historic spot invites visitors to slide down the rushing creek waters amid striking red rock scenery.
 

The adventures continue in the Coconino National Forest, where the world’s largest natural travertine bridge awaits in Tonto Bridge State Park.

Downtown Flagstaff’s Culture and Culinary Scene

Flagstaff is a brilliant hub known for its rich history and lively local culture. At its center, Historic Downtown Flagstaff offers a splendid walkable district filled with beautifully preserved red-brick buildings, local boutique shops, and a legendary craft beer scene.
 

Beyond its historic charm, Downtown Flagstaff has quietly become one of the Southwest’s most exciting culinary hidden gems, blending casual mountain comfort food with world-class dining experiences. Visitors often flock to hotspots like Atria, which serves up farm-fresh American fare crafted from locally sourced ingredients. For a more relaxed vibe after a day on the trails, check out Diablo Burger at Heritage Square or enjoy a wood-fired pizza at the historic Beaver Street Brewery.
 

Be sure to check out some of our other local favorites while in town:
 

• Josephine’s Restaurant
• MartAnnes Burrito Palace
• Karma Sushi Bar & Grill

More Flagstaff Favorites

For a journey into the cosmos, head up Mars Hill to the world-renowned Lowell Observatory. Here, you can gaze through historic and modern telescopes under Flagstaff’s famously dark night skies. If a change of pace is needed, the Arboretum at Flagstaff is another spot deserving of a spot on your Northern Arizona itinerary, showcasing hundreds of species of high-elevation plants across a 200-acre property.
 

Wintertime visitors will find a premier skiing and snowboarding destination at the Arizona Snowbowl. Boasting the state's largest beginner terrain, a high-speed gondola, and a peak elevation of 11,500 feet, it caters to everyone from first-timers to experienced winter athletes.

Exploring Route 66 and Williams

No trip to the region is complete without tapping into the nostalgic Americana of Historic Route 66. Taking the drive west out of Flagstaff brings you to the charming town of Williams. Here, you can board a train on the Grand Canyon Railway for a scenic ride straight to the canyon’s edge.
 

Williams is also home to Bearizona, a must-visit drive-through wildlife park showcasing North American animals. Expect to see black bears, wolves, bison, and bighorn sheep roaming their natural pine forest habitats during your visit.

Tee Off in the Pines: High-Altitude Golfing

Northern Arizona offers a golfing experience like no other. In the immediate Flagstaff area, the Continental Golf Club features a beautiful championship course winding through towering ponderosa pines and scenic water features. You’ll find another local favorite slightly west in Elephant Rocks Golf Club, named after its unique volcanic rock formations.
 

If you’re looking to play further south, the Sedona Golf Resort delivers spectacular views of the region’s famed red rocks with every swing. There’s also a scenic mountain course in the Payson Golf Club, known for its welcoming environment for all skill levels and frequent wildlife sightings along the course.