If you’re in need of a mountain getaway, Flagstaff should be at the top of your list. It’s only two hours away from the Valley and offers the perfect blend of college town, quaint village and outdoor escape. Plus, it’s always cooler than Phoenix — meaning a break from 100 degree temps in the summer and a snowy oasis in the winter. 

Where to Stay 

Little America Hotels & Resorts

If you want to enjoy a bit of luxury in the mountains, this is the hotel for you. It’s the only AAA-approved Four Diamond hotel in town with luxurious yet cozy accommodations and stunning views. Plus, there’s an on-site pool and restaurant, and a shuttle is available to take you to downtown attractions. 

America Mountain Inn and Cabins

These accommodations provide a cabin experience with the convenience of a hotel. Guests can choose an A-frame cabin equipped with a kitchenette and BBQ grill or a suite with breakfast service, allowing you to customize your vacation experience. Plus, the cabins range from cozy one-bedrooms to expansive cabins large enough to accommodate 16 people, which is perfect for a group vacay with your pals!

Where to Eat

Diablo Burger 

Flagstaff is home to the original Diablo Burger, which is slowly making its way to other parts of the state due to high demand. We’re still patiently waiting on that Phoenix location… And while you might think a burger sounds simple, the Diablo Burger is anything but. Each burger consists of a 6 oz. locally-grown beef patty on an English muffin with your choice of toppings. Our top picks include the ‘Wrigley Field’ (bacon, swiss cheese, grilled onions and spicy mustard) and ‘The Blake’ (homemade hatch chile mayo, roasted green chiles and sharp cheddar).  

The Brix 

This award-winning spot has been named a top restaurant by Conde Naste, and we have to agree. It brings fine dining to this college town for an unexpected treat with locally farmed, top-quality ingredients and impeccable service. We recommend trying the roasted tomato and almond ricotta ravioli or the pan-roasted duck breast. 

What to Do 

Visit the highest point in Arizona

While there’s a ton of great hiking in Flagstaff, the ultimate bragging rights come with hiking the 10.2-mile Humphrey’s Peak to experience the highest point in the state (12,633 feet). Not only will you be able to check this feat off your bucket list, but you’ll also get some great views of the San Francisco Peaks. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get a peek of the Grand Canyon from the top.

Check out Snowbowl 

There’s no bad time to go to Snowbowl. While the landmark is best known for its skiing and snowboarding trails in the winter, you can also take a hike to see the trees changing colors in the fall! 

Walk through downtown Flagstaff

Flagstaff has a great downtown area with a small-town feel. There are plenty of fantastic local businesses to check out ranging from restaurants and bars to boutiques and art galleries. 

Look up to the sky at Lowell Observatory 

Did you know that everyone’s favorite controversial planet, Pluto, was discovered in Flagstaff at the Lowell Observatory?? You can still visit to take a tour, participate in viewings and hear lectures. 

Master an obstacle course 

Complete with zip lines, rope swings, and scrambling walls, kids and adults alike can enjoy the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course for a day. Don’t worry too much about not being able to keep up; the course offers five levels of difficulty, so everyone can get in on the fun. 

Explore the Lava River Cave 

Hiking is even more exciting when it’s underground, especially in this mile-long lava tube cave formed 700,000 years ago by molten rock. The cave is about 14 miles north of Flagstaff, but it’s worth the journey. We recommend visiting in the summer to enjoy temperatures as low as 42 degrees in the cave. 

Tag us in your next Flagstaff adventure pics at #FrayLife #PHXFray!

If you’re more of a city person, check out our guide to day tripping in St. Augustine.