No matter where I end up in life, Arizona is always going to be home. And I am going to treasure the days I’ve spent up north. One of my favorite day getaways is Flagstaff. Not only is the weather cooler in the summer, during the fall you get to see some semblance of autumn, and in the winter you can play in the snow. I recently went up north to play in the leaves and get out of Phoenix’s heat.
If you’re unsure of what to do in Flagstaff, here are a few of my favorite things to do in every season!
Eat at Tourist Home
Not going to lie, the last 3 times that I’ve gone to Flagstaff, I’ve eaten at Tourist Home. Their food and drinks simply cannot be beaten. I highly recommend the Flag cheesesteak and the grilled cheese with tomato soup. Both are great for when it’s cold outside and you just need a little something to warm up. They’re also known for their breakfast and although I haven’t given it a try myself yet, it’s on my list when I go back! They also have delicious muffins, donuts, and other pastries if you’re looking for a snack to go alongside a coffee.
Explore Hotel Monte Vista
I may be the only one, but I love exploring old hotels. Open in 1927, this historic spot houses a cocktail lounge that was once open (and shut down) during the prohibition and was home to a major bootlegging operation. It’s rumored that scenes from Casablanca were actually filmed at the hotel during Bogart’s stay. Nowadays it’s a great place to get a whiskey apple cider and go ghost hunting.
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Sip on a beverage from Macy’s European Coffeehouse
Though I haven’t been to too many coffee spots in Flag yet, Macy’s is by far my favorite. I visited there on my most recent trip and although I sat outside with Willow while Adam grabbed me a drink, the quality of the beverage was incredible. I had the hot apple cider and Adam had the Macy’s special (half espresso, half hot chocolate). The inside is extremely cozy so bring your laptop, take a seat, and relax while you sip on your drink. You aren’t going to want to leave.
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Visit Lockett Meadow
Okay, I am going to be honest with you here. I’ve seen Lockett Meadow all over Instagram. From pictures, it seems like an open meadow, full of trees and open land. What they don’t tell you is that once you get off the main highway, you’re driving up steep switchbacks on a very narrow dirt road for about 3 miles. I thought it was going to be a nice relaxing drive yet I was white-knuckling my steering wheel because we decided to head up in poor weather conditions. Don’t take after me. We were hoping that there would still be colorful yellow leaves but by the time we reached the meadow, it was cold and gray. BUT! Don’t let my poor planning deter you. During May through the beginning of October, Lockett’s Meadow is absolutely worth your time. Just try to take a bigger car than a Honda Civic and be patient when driving. The road gets busy.
Enjoy a beer at Mother Road Brewery
Mother Road Brewery makes some of the best local beer here in Arizona. They have two breweries in Flagstaff, though I’ve only experienced the downtown location. When the weather is nice, sit on the patio with a cold beer and mingle with friends while admiring all the pups that the locals bring with.
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Pizzicletta
Pizzicletta is easily some of the best pizza that I have ever had. We split the margarita and the prosciutto and arugula and my god was it incredible. The best part is that it’s located right next to Mother Road so you can get your drink on and then end the night with some delicious food.
Shop downtown
Downtown Flag has a bunch of cute little stores. Whether you’re looking for outdoor gear, turquoise, thrift stores, or bookshops, there’s something for everyone. Spend your afternoon strolling around, grab lunch, and shop till you drop.
Despite its smaller size, there’s a lot of things to do in Flagstaff. I have a list of things that I have yet to see or do so I’m sure I will update this as I continue to visit! What are your favorite things to do in Flagstaff? I love hearing new suggestions!
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