About
While Arizona landmarks surrounding The City in the Pines are must-visits, don't overlook Downtown Flagstaff when compiling your sightseeing itinerary.
At 7,000 feet, the heart of the city comes alive with history, yearly events, boutiques, and vibrant restaurants.
This western town didn't begin to grow until the late 1800s, when the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad connected Flagstaff to the rest of the country. This new link brought trade and travel to the frontier settlement.
Another source of income was the Ponderosa Pine forests, which fueled a thriving lumber industry. Additionally, sheep and cattle ranching built a strong local economy.
The town's name tells a story, too. In 1876, surveyors raised a flag high on a Ponderosa Pine to mark the nation's 100th birthday. That flagpole became a landmark, and the growing community took its name from this patriotic act.
History buffs will appreciate strolling Downtown Flagstaff to take in the historic buildings. Here, different architectural styles, including Victorian, Romanesque, and Art Deco, feature local Moenkopi sandstone and brick. A key landmark to explore is the Weatherford Hotel, which has been open since 1900. This hotel has welcomed famous guests, including Theodore Roosevelt and author Zane Grey. Today, it offers guest rooms, has three unique dining spots, and hosts concerts and special events.
Another iconic structure is the Babbitt Brothers Building. The impressive two-story brick building is a reminder of its days as a mercantile and trading store. Today, it's home to the Babbitt's Backcountry Outfitters.
Downtown Flagstaff's spot on the National Register of Historic Places highlights why these blocks are special. The city's commitment to saving these pieces of history helps visitors sense the Wild West spirit. Take a self-guided walk, and you'll experience the legacy of pioneers, hard workers, and creative minds who built this vibrant city.
Downtown Flagstaff: Fun Facts & Cool Features
While far removed from America's key space sites like Houston and Cape Canaveral, Flagstaff has its own bragging rights. In 1930, astronomers at Lowell Observatory discovered Pluto.
This milestone event leads to our next point of interest: becoming the world's first "International Dark Sky City." City officials work hard to limit light pollution, making stargazing special in Flagstaff. Discovering the dwarf planet also led to the annual I Heart Pluto Festival.
Historic Route 66 cuts right through the city, carrying decades of road-trip stories. Often called the "Mother Road," this famous highway still attracts travelers heading west. Vintage neon signs and classic storefronts are in the downtown area, including popular restaurants like Fat Olives and MartAnne's Burrito Palace.
Also noteworthy are the murals that add color and creativity to historic buildings. Sculpted bronze statues are along the sidewalks, honoring someone important to Flagstaff's past or marking a meaningful moment in the city's journey.
City officials have taken the stress out of touring Downtown Flagstaff with ample parking garages. Some locations feature paid parking while others are free. Look over this map to plan where to park when sightseeing and for a stress-free experience.
As we alluded to at the start, the downtown area is a springboard into Arizona's natural wonders. The most notable is Grand Canyon National Park, about a 1.5-hour drive from Flagstaff. This iconic park with mind-boggling views is a worldwide wonder, attracting visitors to marvel at its multi-colored canyons.
When it comes to sightseeing, Downtown Flagstaff has a lot to offer, from vibrant murals and historic buildings to distinctive restaurants, making it worth exploring.
Local Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the historic district on foot.
- Bring layers of clothing; the weather at high altitude can change without warning.
- Check the Downtown Flagstaff events calendar for festivals and farmers' markets.
- The ArtWalk is on the first Friday of the month.
- The free Mountain Line bus service lets you avoid parking challenges.
