The city of Flagstaff is home to various natural wonders, such as Arizona’s tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak, which draws hikers, skiers, and mountaineers to this scenic stretch of Northern Arizona. It’s also where you’ll find Walnut Canyon National Monument, with canyon walls and cliffs holding dwellings that once served as homes to the Sinagua Indians in the 12th and 13th centuries. The Sinagua left more than 80 multi-room dwellings here, 25 of which can be viewed from the footpaths snaking through the canyons. Further remains of ancient Sinagua structures, inhabited between 1070 and 1275 A.D., can be found at Elden Pueblo Archaeological Site in central Flagstaff.

The city itself has a sophisticated restaurant scene and notable museums such as the Museum of Northern Arizona, where you can learn all about this fascinating red rock region of the United States. Flagstaff is also a popular stop on the way to the Grand Canyon, whose pastel peaks and sweeping vistas are only an hour and a half away.

Flagstaff boasts plenty to do year-round, making it an ideal getaway during any season. If you’re planning to get your fill of winter sports and explore the nearby ski slopes, then make sure you get here between December and February. Just remember to pack those tire chains or have four-wheel drive to avoid any hiccups en route. If you’re looking to bask in the Arizona sunshine, then book your cabin in Flagstaff for July or August. Fall and spring in Flagstaff offer more temperate weather, with plenty of trails perfect for a midday hike during these months.

Lowell Observatory

As one of the oldest observatories in the United States, Lowell Observatory has a fascinating history. This now research facility is where astronomers first discovered Pluto in the early 20th century, where the rings of Uranus were studied in great detail, and where the Apollo program worked on some of their moon planning. Today you can take a tour of the facility, watch various science films, and check out far away constellations using the observatory telescope.

Humphrey’s Peak Trail

The hike up to Arizona’s highest peak is a five-mile-long trek into nature along a steep and rocky trail that guarantees great views of the canyons and the Painted Desert. While Humphrey’s Peak Trail is open year-round, slippery conditions make it more ideal for exploring in the spring and summertime, with permits required for the winter months’ entry.

Wheeler Park

This green area — located just steps away from the city’s visitor center —plays host to a number of weekend arts festivals throughout the year, and is also one of Flagstaff’s most popular picnic spots. Visitors can enjoy the grassy land on the benches outlining the park, or bring along a blanket for a picnic. In the fall, visitors can take part in an Oktoberfest celebration, and in the winter, the park’s trees are decked out with holiday lights to bring in the season’s cheer.