About Flagstaff

Straddling the junction of Interstates 17 and 40 in north-central Arizona, 146 miles north of Phoenix, Flagstaff is your ideal jumping off point for sightseeing throughout the northern part of the state; the Grand Canyon, the Navajo Reservation and Sedona red rocks are all within a 90-minute drive. You can explore rich history in the city dating back to 1855—nearly six decades before Arizona was admitted to the union on Feb. 14, 1912—when a group of pioneers made camp in the area. An American flag raised on one of the towering Ponderosa pines became a trailside landmark where the modern university town blossomed into a city of more than 65,000 people. See the actual flagstaff or make your way through this lumberjack town for a taste of eclectic cuisine and plenty of outdoor fun.

Flagstaff Sweater Weather

While the state's lowlands sizzle in the summer, with temperatures exceeding 110 degrees, you can relax under Flagstaff's pines, 7,000 feet above sea level, where daytime highs rarely top 90 and generally settle in the low 80s. Bring a sweater for cool summer evenings—afternoon thundershowers can leave a chill in the air when temps drop below 50 degrees. By mid-October, the mercury plummets to near-freezing at night, making it an opportune time to drive up Humphreys Peak to view dazzling aspens. From December through March, about 100 inches of annual snowfall and sub-freezing temperatures provide a playground for skiing and other winter sports.

Flagstaff Attractions

While in Flagstaff, you'll want to visit the city's top attractions. Historic downtown Flagstaff centers around the expansive Tudor Revival brick train station, which you can't miss as you get your kicks on Route 66. Enjoy mild weather by getting outdoors—Flagstaff Arboretum and the Coconino National Forest are two peaceful places to commune with nature. Get a multiday National Parks pass to explore Wupatki National Monument, Sunset National Crater and Walnut Canyon National Monument. Step back at Riordan Mansion State Park, Museum of Northern Arizona or Pioneer History Museum, or go over the moon at Lowell Observatory.

Manufacturing and Tourism Abound

While you might surmise that the city's most famous landmark, Northern Arizona University, is a major employer, Flagstaff attractions and outdoor activities tip the scale slightly in favor of tourism as the area's major industry. Close behind is manufacturing, which dates to the city's early days. You can't miss the Nestle Purina plant with its famous checkerboard tower rising into the sky along Interstate 40 on the east end of the city. The plant's 250 associates manufacture 1,000 tons of dry pet food each day.

Flagstaff Transportation

Roll into the city on Amtrak's Southwest Chief—the railway through Flagstaff is one of the busiest lines in the country. You can fly into the city's small airport on commuter flights from Phoenix or take a shuttle service to Flagstaff from Sky Harbor International Airport. Greyhound bus routes link Flagstaff to Phoenix, Kingman and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Get around town on the Mountain Line bus system or go green by renting a bike. The 42-mile Flagstaff Loop Trail circles the city, connecting you to parks, shopping and local attractions.

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