The Coolest Things To See And Do In Flagstaff Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona, is a hotbed for cultural and natural discovery. You will stand in awe of the ancient pueblos at the Wupatki National Monument, and the Riordan Mansion will give you a glimpse into Arizona‘s early days as a US territory. Though Flagstaff is a small city, its attractions are huge, so bring your hiking boots and sense of wonder.

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Wupatki National Monument

Just outside of Flagstaff you’ll find the Wupatki National Monument, which is rich with Native American history. Explore the ancient pueblos that still stand despite only being held together by sandstone blocks and mortar. Here you’ll also find a ball court and a few religious and ceremonial buildings amidst ancient homes. The Wupatki National Monument is a great place to hike while also discovering some Native American history.

The Walnut Canyon National Monument was the ancient home of the Sinagua people, whose dwelling areas you can still explore. These ruins are not nearly as sophisticated as what you will see at Wupatki, but it is still a marvel of the human spirit that anyone lived in such a dry area. In fact, Sinagua means “without water” in Spanish. If you didn’t get the hint, don’t forget to carry a few water bottles with you when you hike through Walnut Canyon.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Explore more recent history at the Riordan Mansion, home of lumber barons Timothy and Michael Riordan. The Riordan brothers built the mansion in 1904, and for a time it housed both of their immediate families, which was no problem because the brothers married two sisters, Caroline and Elizabeth Metz. The house has been left as it was when the Riordan brothers lived there, so there is plenty of antique and handcrafted furniture to explore inside.

Coconino National Forest

Coconino National Forest is huge, so don’t expect to explore the entirety of its expanse, but do make sure to get to the unique sites within its borders. There are two sites of Native American ruins – one of the Sinagua and the other of the Palatki, the original cliff dwellers in Red Rock Country. Also in Coconino is a large petroglyph site, so if you are an archaeology buff, you’ll have a full and rewarding day at Coconino.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a truly unique experience, featuring the flora and sometimes fauna that are natural to the high desert biome. Numerous research projects are ongoing at any one time, and you can find out more by joining one of the tours, offered twice daily. The price of admission also gets you into hundreds of gardens in the United States, as well as numerous other countries.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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