Flagstaff Staycation: 7 Fun Things to Do with Family

Flagstaff, Arizona, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, rich history, and small-town charm that make it an ideal staycation destination for families. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or enjoy family-friendly attractions, this high-altitude city has something for everyone. Here are seven fun and memorable things to do with your family in Flagstaff for a perfect staycation.

1. Explore the Lowell Observatory

For a family-friendly educational experience, start your staycation with a visit to Lowell Observatory, one of the oldest observatories in the U.S. It’s where Pluto was discovered, and today, visitors can enjoy guided tours, interactive exhibits, and nighttime stargazing sessions. Kids will love learning about the cosmos while peering through powerful telescopes, and the whole family can marvel at the incredible dark skies of Flagstaff, which is also a designated Dark Sky City.

2. Hike the Lava Flow Trail at Sunset Crater

Just outside Flagstaff, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument offers a unique geological landscape your family won’t forget. The Lava Flow Trail is an easy, family-friendly hike through ancient lava fields created by the eruption of Sunset Crater Volcano over 900 years ago. This one-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the volcanic formations and surrounding landscape. It’s a great opportunity to teach kids about the region’s volcanic history while enjoying a scenic walk.

3. Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona

Dive into the history and culture of Flagstaff and the surrounding area with a trip to the Museum of Northern Arizona. The museum showcases Native American artifacts, natural history exhibits, and rotating art displays that highlight the region’s cultural diversity. Families can explore hands-on exhibits designed for kids, making this both an educational and fun stop on your staycation itinerary.

4. Take a Stroll Through Downtown Flagstaff

Flagstaff’s historic downtown is a charming place to take a family stroll. With its eclectic mix of local shops, restaurants, and coffeehouses, there’s plenty to explore. Grab an ice cream at Flagstaff Chocolate Company, browse through local bookstores, and enjoy some people-watching in Heritage Square, where you’ll often find live music or family-friendly events. It’s a great way to unwind while soaking in the laid-back vibe of the town.

5. Ride the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course

For a thrilling family adventure, head to the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course. This treetop obstacle course, set in the beautiful pine forest of Fort Tuthill County Park, features zip lines, suspended bridges, and swinging ropes. Courses are available for various age groups, ensuring that both kids and adults can enjoy this adrenaline-pumping experience. It’s an exciting way to spend a day in nature, with lots of fun challenges for the whole family.

6. Go for a Scenic Drive on Snowbowl Road

Take a scenic drive up Snowbowl Road for incredible views of the San Francisco Peaks, the highest mountain range in Arizona. Along the way, you can stop at overlooks to admire the sweeping vistas of Flagstaff and beyond. At the top, Arizona Snowbowl offers activities such as a scenic gondola ride during the summer, giving you and your family a bird’s-eye view of the forested landscape below. During winter, it’s the perfect spot for skiing, snowboarding, or sledding.

7. Discover Walnut Canyon National Monument

For a mix of nature and history, take the family to Walnut Canyon National Monument. This fascinating site features ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago. You can hike the Island Trail, a short but steep path that leads down into the canyon, where you’ll have the chance to explore these historic dwellings up close. Kids will love the adventure, and parents will appreciate the rich history and scenic beauty of the canyon.

Flagstaff is a fantastic place to enjoy a family staycation, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, historical exploration, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re hiking volcanic landscapes, stargazing, or zip-lining through the treetops, these seven activities will help create unforgettable memories with your loved ones in this beautiful mountain town.

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