Things to Do in Flagstaff: Your Ultimate Guide to Mountain Living

If you’re familiar with Flagstaff, you know this urban mountain town is bursting with activity of every kind. Keep reading as we unpack the all-inclusive lifestyle that Northern Arizona’s biggest city is known and loved for.

The Greater Outdoors

From vistas to experiences, Flagstaff’s allure springs from its enticing landscape surrounded by Pinon Pine forests. Uncover Flagstaff hiking trails and biking paths to break in your new wheels with the Flagstaff Urban Trails System! This 56-mile city-wide trail network invites you to explore the local terrain for both recreation and transportation.

Seeking somewhere a bit cooler? Hit the slopes at Arizona Snowbowl for some all-ages fun. Living in Flagstaff places you front and center to the area’s unique geography, like Sunset Crater Volcano—one of three Flagstaff Area National Monuments! Walnut Canyon is also just 30 minutes away, offering a glimpse of indigenous community remnants in the cliffs.

Cultural Attractions

When you live in Flagstaff, the city’s rich heritage and cultural scene are at your doorstep. Browse shops, galleries and restaurants at the historic downtown district or gather at Heritage Square for community events like concerts, festivals and farmers’ markets.

Founded in 1894, the Lowell Observatory is your cosmic playground close to home—and an unbeatable spot to stargaze! Or discover the Museum of Northern Arizona, showcasing the region’s art, history and science through a collection of over 600,000 artifacts.

For live music, the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra performs at the Ardrey Memorial Auditorium, offering a range of classical music concerts throughout the year. The Orpheum Theater also hosts various performances, including live music, theater productions and film screenings.

Eateries and Entertainment

Flagstaff’s culinary scene is a fusion of flavors with a focus on local ingredients and craft beverages. Visit one of the town’s many breweries, such as Flagstaff Brewing Company, Hops on Birch, Mother Road Brewing, Lumberyard Tap Room, Dark Sky Brewing or Wanderlust Brewing and sample a pint of their latest creation.

For a taste of the region’s best produce, head to a farm-to-table restaurant like The Farmhouse, Tinderbox Kitchen, Tourist Home or Josephine’s. These eateries showcase the flavors of Northern Arizona with menus changing seasonally, ensuring every visit offers something fresh and exciting.

Coconino Center for the Arts (CCA) is central to Northern Arizona’s vibrant creative culture. Managed by Creative Flagstaff, CCA serves the arts, science and cultural sectors of Flagstaff. CCA’s facilities include a 4,000 sq ft Main Gallery, an adjacent 215 sq ft Project Gallery and an intimate 200-seat Theater.

Live music venues like Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge, Gopher Hole Pub at the historic Weatherford Hotel and the Museum Club host local and national acts ranging from rock to jazz to folk. Enjoy fun outdoor concerts nestled in the pines at Pepsi Amphitheater at Fort Tuthill Park.  And on the first Friday of every month, downtown Flagstaff comes alive with the First Friday ArtWalk, featuring gallery openings, artist demonstrations and live music.

Educational Opportunities

Flagstaff is a hub for education, with Northern Arizona University at its heart. NAU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a strong focus on STEM education.

The university is also home to various research facilities, including the Lowell Observatory and the Merriam-Powell Research Station. These facilities provide opportunities for students and faculty to conduct cutting-edge research in fields like astronomy, biology and environmental science.

Flagstaff is also served by Coconino Community College, which offers associate degrees and certificate programs in fields like healthcare, technology and the arts.

Community Events

Throughout the year, Flagstaff hosts a range of community happenings, celebrating everything from music and art to science and nature—like the Flagstaff Blues and Brews Festival, which brings together local and national blues musicians for a weekend of live music.  Families can enjoy a good time every autumn at Cornucopia Fall Festival, a community celebration of the change of seasons. Cornucopia features carnival rides, a hay maze, a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo, games, live entertainment, local microbrews and great food.

The Pickin’ in the Pines bluegrass festival features three days of bluegrass music with performances by local and national bands. The Flagstaff Festival of Science offers a range of events and activities celebrating science and nature, including lectures, workshops and exhibits.

So, Why Flagstaff?

Flagstaff offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions and academic opportunities. As a resident of this vibrant mountain town, you’ll have access to a wide range of activities and amenities that will enhance your lifestyle.

Capstone Homes’ Flagstaff communities reflect the natural beauty and upbeat ambiance of this Northern Arizona hot spot. As a trusted builder in Arizona, we’re committed to crafting neighborhoods that protect the environment, with homes designed for the ultimate sustainable, energy-efficient living.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff provides a view of over 750 species of plants and more than 130 bird species recorded. This 200-acre property is filled with historic buildings, gardens, greenhouses, wetlands and forests.  In addition to plant and bird walks, the arboretum hosts concerts, events, various exhibits and educational classes.

If you’re looking for a new home in Flagstaff, we invite you to explore our collections and discover the Capstone difference. Schedule a tour today to see available model homes and experience the best of mountain living!

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