Discover the Hidden Treasures and Attractions of This Iconic Arizona City
Imagine a place where the stars are so bright they feel within reach. Picture a city stationed amidst towering pines, where the air is crisp and clean, and natural wonders abound—seven of them, to be exact, in the form of canyons, craters and monuments.
Welcome to Flagstaff, Arizona—the world’s first Dark Sky City.
Beyond its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, Flagstaff hides a treasure trove of secrets that even the most seasoned traveler might not know. From stargazing under the vast expanse of the night sky to traversing majestic canyons, there’s a unique blend of discovery and serenity to be found here. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover eight things you probably didn’t know about this city, which rests at an elevation of 7000’ in the heart of the American Southwest.
1 | A New Astronomy Discovery Center Opening at Lowell Observatory
Founded in 1894 by Percival Lowell, Lowell Observatory has played a significant role in astronomical revelations over the years, such as the discovery of the dwarf planet Pluto. Now, the observatory is setting course into a new era with the grand opening of the Astronomy Discovery Center—a place where curious minds can marvel at the cosmos and delve into the wonders of astronomy. Starting Nov. 16, this state-of-the-art facility promises to be an even stronger beacon of astronomical exploration.
The rooftop Dark Sky Planetarium, Pluto Discovery Dome and Giovale Open Deck Observatory will transport visitors on a breathtaking sojourn through familiar planets of our solar system and distant galaxies. Interactive exhibits will ignite curiosity and spark a love of science in visitors of all ages. Expert astronomers will share their knowledge and passion through workshops, lectures and stargazing events. Also anticipated is the opening of the Lowell Universe Theater, which promises a live experience in a 160-degree, multi-story LED theater. The Astronomy Discovery Center is poised to become a must-visit destination for astronomy enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper connection to the universe.
2 | A Mecca for Astrotourism
There’s a reason astrotourism is a growing trend—advances in space exploration and scientific discoveries have sparked a renewed interest in the cosmos and the mysteries it holds. And there are also many reasons why Flagstaff is the ideal destination for this type of travel. For starters, the city’s high altitude provides clearer skies and reduces atmospheric interference, allowing for better astronomical observations. According to Christian Luginbuhl, president of Dark Skies Coalition, Flagstaff is “the world’s most accessible star party.” With the city’s commitment to stargazing, you don’t even have to leave downtown to catch a sky full of stars.
Local Insight: Did you know Flagstaff has an impressive lunar legacy? Every astronaut that walked on the moon trained in Flagstaff! Many milestones also occurred in the area to facilitate this accomplishment, including astronaut science training, lunar mapping and instrument development.
Flagstaff does well to celebrate its significant contributions to astronomy, too, honoring Clyde W. Tombaugh’s 1930s discovery of Pluto every year. The annual I Heart Pluto Festival hosts science talks, pub crawls, hard hat tours and even a mayoral proclamation in honor of this icy celestial body. Less than two miles from Flagstaff’s City Hall, you’ll find endless parks where you can lie down and look up. On a clear night, you can easily see the Milky Way stretching across the sky. Come to Flagstaff for the rich lunar legacy, and stay for the stars.
3 | The World’s First Dark Sky City
Flagstaff was the first city in the world to be named a Dark Sky City, awarded in 2001 by the DarkSky International. This means it’s a destination that has made a commitment to preserving the night sky by reducing light pollution.
With a sky glow that measures more than 90% less than other towns of similar size, Flagstaff has worked hard to keep light pollution low by using special outdoor lights and basic methods that shield lighting. Their success has resulted in The Flagstaff Solution: a set of standards that educate the public about the importance of dark skies and how to achieve it in their own cities.
“In North America, 80% of people cannot see the Milky Way,” says Luginbuhl. “We believe we can change this percentage. It’s as simple as shielding lights and using amber lighting.”
Celebration has always been at the core of the Dark Skies Coalition mission. When you visit this Dark Sky City, you’ll have a chance to participate in art exhibitions, where artists interpret their vision of the sky, and star parties to connect with the night. “A star-filled sky is easy to sell,” muses Luginbuhl.
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4 | A Training Ground for Astronauts
Flagstaff has emerged as a thriving hub for scientific research and a popular training ground for astronauts. Its unique geography and history have made it a cosmic crossroads, attracting scientists and explorers from around the world. In addition to Lowell Observatory, the United States Astrogeology Science Center plays a crucial role in studying the geology of celestial bodies, providing valuable insights for planetary exploration missions.
Founded in 1963 to map the moon and train astronauts, this center hosts weekday exhibit tours led by expert scientists and are by appointment only (be sure to schedule at least 48 hours in advance). You’ll learn how they integrate planetary geoscience, cartography and remote sensing to better understand the solar system. You can also see Grover, the lunar rover, and a giant floor map of Mars here.
Beyond research, the US Air Force has used the region for astronaut survival training, and it continues to be a popular destination for space agencies worldwide. The rugged landscapes and extreme conditions provide a realistic environment for astronauts to prepare for the challenges they may face in space. Flagstaff truly is an out-of-this-world place to visit.
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5 | A Beautiful Place to See Fall Colors
While nights in Flagstaff are thrilling, daytime here sparkles with clear blue skies and, in the autumn months, a brilliant display of fall colors. In a city that prides itself on scientific achievement, there’s no surprise that fall foliage forecasts are available here. Check out the LEAF-ometer to monitor changing fall colors around Flagstaff—from the San Francisco Peaks to the Oak Creek Canyon—and plan your trip accordingly.
Among the best places to stage a picnic and peep some leaves is The Arboretum at Flagstaff, where you can stroll among high-altitude native plants as they shift with the seasons—not to mention wildflowers in the gardens and nursery. Historic downtown Flagstaff is also a great place to bask in the glory of vibrant fall colors while you dine and shop. And should you want to fully immerse yourself in the glowing ombre of the season, take to the skies on the Scenic Gondola at the Arizona Snowbowl. You’ll peer over a mixed fir and aspen tree canopy and even be able to see the Grand Canyon from this skyline view. Autumn is also a great time to visit Northern Arizona University’s campus to enjoy a lively football game in cooler temperatures amid beautiful scenery.
6 | The City of Seven Wonders
Flagstaff is proudly known as the City of Seven Wonders, a title that reflects its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Tucked amidst the majestic San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff is surrounded by seven iconic landmarks that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes and geological wonders. These include the Grand Canyon National Park, Oak Creek Canyon and National Monuments, such as Sunset Crater, Walnut Canyon, Wupatki, Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks themselves. Each of these landmarks offers unique experiences, from the towering cliffs and vibrant hues of the Grand Canyon to the ancient ruins and cultural significance of Walnut Canyon. Spending time in these natural wonders promises endless opportunities for adventure, exploration and appreciation. You’ll even have a chance to explore craters that were created by a volcanic eruption and meteor impact many years ago.
Flagstaff’s proximity to these natural treasures—combined with its vibrant arts scene, outdoor adventures and friendly atmosphere—make it a truly exceptional destination for visitors seeking a memorable experience in the American Southwest.
7 | A Four-Season Climate
With clear skies and relatively mild temperatures throughout the year, Flagstaff provides a perfect backdrop for those seeking a harmonious blend of seasons. Its semi-arid climate gives way to a surprisingly mild summer. While it can get comfortably warm (summer average high is 81 degrees), the dry climate and high elevation will require sun protection. And as fall approaches, the air becomes noticeably cooler and fresher. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking and camping.
Winters in Flagstaff are moderately cold, and snowfall is relatively light in downtown, but higher elevations certainly receive more snow to provide for fabulous winter recreation compared to other mountain regions. The Arizona Snowbowl is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding buffs, whereas snow tubing can be enjoyed at Flagstaff Snow Park. In springtime, the air warms up, and the days become longer and brighter. The surrounding forests provide for hiking and biking on trails in the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. You’ll see people out on foot and bike on the ample trails. For a city that gets so much credit for its brilliant night skies, the distinctive seasons in Flagstaff are equally as mesmerizing.
8 | The Famous Route 66 Runs Directly Through Flagstaff
The iconic Route 66 runs directly through Flagstaff, making it a must-visit destination for road trip enthusiasts. As the Highway of Dreams winds its way through the city, it offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of this historic road. Explore the vibrant downtown area, where you’ll find charming shops, restaurants and art galleries. Discover The Museum Club, a country western nightclub that was once a taxidermy roadside attraction. And don’t miss the opportunity to experience the nostalgic charm of the historic Weatherford Hotel. This landmark that has welcomed travelers since the early 1900s.
Stop by the Flagstaff Visitor Center and ask for a Route 66 Passport, then adventure onward to collect stamps as you make stops marked on this commemorative document. Or if a walking tour is more your style, tune into Walk This Talk – Route 66, a pedestrian audio guide that honors Flagstaff’s original alignment of the famous route with its Southside neighborhood. A drive along this historic route provides endless Instagram moments. Be sure to mark the trip with a snap of a notorious neon sign or mural! With its unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty, Flagstaff offers an unforgettable Route 66 experience.
Want to learn more about Flagstaff, Arizona? Visit DiscoverFlagstaff.com!
