Welcome To Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona is frequently listed as one of the country’s most livable cities. Flag, as the locals affectionately call it, is nestled at a cool 7,000 foot elevation in the middle of the largest Ponderosa pine forest in the nation. Plateaus of pinon juniper and dense alpine forests fill the mountain air with clean, fresh scents.

Flagstaff — a carefree mountain town with loads of charm
Founded in 1876, Flagstaff is surrounded by the rugged beauty of the great Southwest. It still has the genuine aura of a Western railroad town. Fabled Route 66 — the “Mother Road” — curls through the historic heart of the city, showcasing streets lined with classic diners and historic hotels. Northern Arizona’s spectacular San Francisco Peaks tower in the distance, promising year-round adventure.

Over 60,000 people call Flagstaff home. It’s extraordinary natural splendor and wide variety of recreational opportunities has charmed generations of artists, outdoor enthusiasts and folks who enjoy the pace, rewards and authentic feel of a small town.

A major geographic and cultural crossroads
Thanks to an outstanding array of dining, nightlife, outdoor adventure and lodging options, Flagstaff is home base for exploring the magic of northern Arizona. Modern-day adventurers and cultural enthusiasts make their way to Flagstaff to experience the allure and independence the region delivers. At the junction of two key U.S. interstates, supported by a local airport offering direct flights to Phoenix and Los Angeles, together with a busy train station, Flagstaff is a major crossroads for travelers pursuing the adventure and natural beauty of the American West.

Flagstaff, Arizona embraces a rich American heritage
Flagstaff’s energetic culture and unique history of invention come from its Native American and Old West origins, both of which continue to impact this vibrant mountain community. From the coming of the railroad in 1882 to the discovery of Pluto at Lowell Observatory in 1930, Flagstaff’s heritage remains at the heart of its contemporary culture. Present day artists, collectors and culture-seekers will delight in Flagstaff’s numerous galleries, cultural activities and First Friday ArtWalks.

Along with wildflower-filled meadows, forested mountain bike trails and inactive volcanoes, Flagstaff visitors and residents enjoy everything from Native American Art and museums to shopping and nightlife. Flagstaff’s lovingly preserved, historic downtown features a blend of turn-of-the-century structures reincarnated into lovely shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants.

An outdoor paradise
With close to 50 miles of Flagstaff Urban Trails System pathways, folks can walk, run, hike or bike their way across town. The nearby San Francisco Peaks also provide a wide range of hiking possibilities, including Mt. Humphreys, Arizona’s highest peak. Winter triggers a fresh host of adventures, from downhill skiing and snowboarding at Arizona Snow Bowl to cross country skiing and sledding. If you prefer a  slower pace, Flagstaff’s historic downtown is chock-full of one of a kind shops, places to eat and bars in a pedestrian-friendly environment.

Flagstaff is also home to Northern Arizona University, which attracts an eclectic mix of faculty and students from all over the world. NAU confirms Flagstaff’s reputation as a captivating college town with amenities and attractions for residents and travelers alike.

Flagstaff is surrounded by beauty and history
To experience Native American artifacts and influence, the Hopi and Navajo Indian Reservations are near Flagstaff as are the ancient Indian ruins at Wupatki and Walnut Canyon. 80 miles to the north, the Grand Canyon is Flagstaff’s most celebrated neighbor. To the south, Sedona’s magnificent red rocks are a 40 minute ride on Hwy 89A through famed Oak Creek Canyon. Phoenix and Sky Harbor International Airport are about 150 miles south on Interstate 17.

Flagstaff welcomes over five million visitors per year
If you plan on spending the night in Flagstaff, you’ll find a large collection of Flagstaff Hotels, Flagstaff Bed and Breakfast Inns and other Flagstaff Lodging options. There is also a variety of excellent Flagstaff Restaurants that will tempt you after an exciting day of sightseeing.

You’ll want to return again and again to Flagstaff for its superb outdoor recreation, wonderful museums, closeness to ancient Native American Indian ruins, entertaining festivals and to simply kick back and unwind.

Flagstaff Special Edition is proud to showcase some of the region’s finest artists and photographers. We invite you to enjoy their work on this site and consider an acquisition for your collection.