She created Wander In Arizona to share first-hand information about traveling to the many fantastic cities, trails, national parks, monuments and more as she continues to explore.
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Welcome to Flagstaff in winter, where I’m currently standing, watching my breath create tiny ghost clouds while surrounded by more snow than a penguin’s family reunion.
Yes, you read that right – snow. In Arizona. While your friends are posting photos of their cactus-laden winter hikes in Phoenix, Flagstaff’s winter wonderland is up here casually dropping more white stuff than a baker’s apron.
Let me tell you, winter in Flagstaff isn’t just a season – it’s like Mother Nature went through a Bob Ross phase and decided to paint the entire town in shades of spectacular.
The San Francisco Peaks are dressed in their finest winter whites, looking like they just came from the most exclusive party of the year.
And here I am, a winter-loving fool in Flagstaff’s frosty embrace, about to spill all the tea (which, by the way, freezes pretty quickly up here at 7,000 feet).
In this post, I will cover all the magical things to do in Flagstaff in winter, including what to do in Flagstaff in December (spoiler: it’s not just hiding from your in-laws), things to do in Flagstaff in January (besides perfecting your snow angel technique), and things to do in Flagstaff in February (when cabin fever meets winter wonder).
So grab your warmest mittens and your sense of adventure – we’re about to dive into everything you need to know about surviving and thriving in Flagstaff’s winter wonderland.
Trust me, by the end of this post, you’ll be booking your winter getaway faster than you can say, “Wait, it snows in Arizona?”
CHECK MORE WINTER GUIDES HERE:
13 TOP PLACES TO FOR SLEDDING IN ARIZONA
7 BEST PLACES FOR SLEDDING IN FLAGSTAFF THIS WINTER
11 TOP ARIZONA ICE SKATING RINKS FOR ADVENTURE
DOES IT SNOW IN ARIZONA? 15 PLACES TO ENJOY SNOW
18 BEST CHRISTMAS DESTINATIONS IN ARIZONA YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT
15 TOP SCOTTSDALE CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
27 EPIC DESTINATIONS TO ADMIRE ARIZONA CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
TOP THINGS TO DO IN FLAGSTAFF IN WINTER
INDULGE IN WINTER SPORTS
About an hour from the city, Arizona Snowbowl is one of the most popular resorts skiing in Arizona, located atop mountains formed by an eroded volcano millions of years ago.
It is a popular option for a day trip from Flagstaff and Phoenix, and one of the highly recommended fun things to do in Arizona in December with kids.
If you have time enough to explore only a few things, I highly adding this to your Flagstaff in winter itinerary.
The Snowbowl is one of the best places to visit during Christmas in Sedona to enjoy winter sports with your kids.
Nestled in the majestic San Francisco Peaks, Arizona Snowbowl is known for its magnificent views of Humphreys Peak, the highest mountain in Arizona.
It is one of the oldest continually run ski areas in the United States.
The weather at Snowbowl is pleasantly sunny, even during the winter.
But notorious, unexpected snow storms lead to heavy snow quickly piling up.
Because of the cool weather and traces of snow still remaining, spring is also a popular time for skiing at Snowbowl.
The Snowbowl is also home to the only gondola in Arizona.
Also called Telemix, this lift combines eight-passenger gondolas, whipping you up 2,000 feet in just 7 minutes.
From the top, you will be treated to fantastic views of the valley below blanketed in snow.
From here, you can access the bowl area, glades, and all the intermediate runs.
Note that Weekends and powder days are generally crowded, and long queues for the lifts are standard.
You can also hike along the diamond trails in the Upper Bowl.
With 777 acres of skiable terrain, this is the destination in the state you should visit if you’re serious about skiing in Arizona.
Considered by many to be the premier Arizona ski resort, its location at 11,500 feet makes for an epic ski experience since it boasts the best ski slopes in Arizona.
With five lifts serving 32 runs ranging from easy to complex, the Arizona Snowbowl is one of the most challenging ski areas in the West.
If you are a beginner or families with small children, head to the Hart Prairie Chair to enjoy a gentle slope with many wide-open spaces.
If you are a seasoned skier looking to up your game, head near the Humphreys Peak chair, the Grand Canyon Express or Sunset Chairs.
After you’ve made it up and down, head to the beautiful outdoor patio area, The Hart Prairie Lodge patio to relax.
Have your favourite drink amidst new fire pits, in your perfect lounging spot, soaking up the sun.
If you are serious about learning skiing, Arizona Snowbowl has an excellent ski school and is a perfect place to learn.
If you are over 13 years of age and new to skiing, Arizona Snowbowl has programs that will provide you with free or deeply discounted lessons.
Open to both skiers and snowboarders, Snowbowl also boasts a Terrain Park with rails and spines.
There are two mountain day lodges nearby with restaurants and lounges.
Usually on the weekends, the area becomes more bustling as ski races happen and live music and DJs play the latest hits, making it a fun holiday getaway.
Opening Months – Mid-November to Late May
HOW TO GET THERE
The Arizona Snowbowl is located in the Coconino National Forest seven miles northwest of Flagstaff.
From Flagstaff, follow the Highway 180 signs to Grand Canyon and turn right on Snowbowl Road.
Mountain Express offers free bus service from downtown Flagstaff to Arizona Snowbowl.
If you are driving from Sedona to Arizona Snowbowl, on Highway 89A up Oak Creek Canyon can be challenging on snowy days.
But note that the drive-up can be challenging on snowy days if you are driving. The road is filled with bends and steep, and chains are frequently required.
This journey takes around 1.5 hours(longer if conditions are tricky).
FREE SHUTTLE
If you are visiting during January and February, on the weekends, a free shuttle runs from downtown Flagstaff every 20 minutes from two locations in town.
WHERE TO STAY?
If you want a closer stay, check out the base camp at Snowbowl, on the way up to the ski resort.
There are 18 cabins and six hotel-style rooms, Basecamp at Snowbowl is pet-friendly for a modest charge, and the on-site restaurant serves up hearty fare guaranteed to keep you going no matter how deep the snow.
FLAGSTAFF SNOW PARK
Another spot to enjoy Arizona snow is Flagstaff Snow Park. There is nothing better than playing in the snow, right?
Head here while visiting Flagstaff in winter for exceptional snowplay opportunities.
Build a snowman with your kids, take a snow tubing run, or cosy up by an outdoor fireplace and roast marshmallows. No matter what, you’ll have a fun time being here.
Flagstaff Snow Park opens in mid-December.
Tickets are only available online and must be purchased before visiting. Check their website to book your tickets.
HOP ON THE POLAR EXPRESS
Christmas brings out the happy kid in me, and every year, I have been enjoying spending the holiday here, and thus have many items to recommend you for Arizona Bucket List.
A Christmas Adventure of a Lifetime, the North Pole Experience is probably among the top things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
I highly recommend experiencing this splendid Flagstaff Christmas activity if you are here during the holiday.
You can also add this as a day trip experience when visiting Phoenix in winter, especially if you are with children.
Based on the adventures of the classic children’s book The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, it is one of the memorable journeys offered by the Grand Canyon Railway.
Every winter the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express comes to life on a journey from the nighttime wilderness of Williams in Arizona, to the enchanted beauty of “the North Pole, Grand Canyon South Rim depot.
Whether you are into fairy tales or not, this is one of the epic experiences worth adding to your Arizona Bucket List in December.
Named Trolley Launch Station, it is located on Hotel Little America’s 500 acres of beautiful forest, decorated with more than a million Christmas lights, making it the perfect backdrop for this epic adventure.
Join your kids on a trolley ride through the magic portal to Santa’s massive workshop in the middle of the forest.
Once you arrive, you will attend a workshop with Santa!
Santa’s Workshop is a complete, hands-on experience for children and parents.
With the elves beside you, learn building toys and Santa’s Workshop secrets at this 8500-square-foot workshop.
Take a tour of Santa’s main factory floor, Santa’s Toy Hall of Fame, attend Elf University and visit with Mrs. Claus.
Head to Santa’s Bakery for hot cocoa, snowman soup and cookies.
Don’t forget Santa’s mailroom and his top-secret “Area 47” Sleigh Hangar, featuring his famous sleigh, mission control centre, radar systems, and more.
The ride lasts slightly over an hour, with the train leaving each night at 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
Tickets begin at $57 for adults and $38 for children if you book early, but worth getting on the trail for a unique family holiday spirit to enjoy a memorable winter holiday in the Grand Canyon. Find out more details to book here.
Opening dates – November 12 – December 24
SPEND A NIGHT STARGAZING
One of the oldest and the most popular observatories in Arizona is Lowell Observatory, located in Flagstaff.
If you are looking for one of the best places for epic stargazing in Sedona in winter, Lowell Observatory is one of the top picks.
Founded in 1894, the Observatory is known for its dozens of stellar discoveries, including the introduction of Pluto in 1930.
Lowell Observatory visitor centre offers interactive, hands-on exhibits, and many daytime and nighttime activities for visitors.
The Giovale Open Deck Observatory at Lowell Observatory boasts of the finest collections of telescopes available for public observation.
Enjoy spectacular stargazing using the 24-inch Clark Telescope, built in 1896, one of the six advanced telescopes.
The clear dark skies of Flagstaff, abundant in celestial objects ranging from star fields to nebulae and galaxies, make for a magical night.
If you are here during the day time, check out the rare exhibits at the Giovale Open Deck.
Among the famous exhibits is the original 13-inch Pluto Discovery Telescope.
Book lovers should also check out the historic Rotunda Library Museum, which also houses some of the precious artifacts from Lowell Observatory’s history.
Another stop is the Putnam Collection Center Open House, which is open from 1 PM to 2 PM from Monday through Saturday.
This exhibit features Percival Lowell’s 1911 Steven-Duryea automobile and other historic artifacts.
Kids will surely enjoy evening screening of films, science demonstrations, the constellation tour and evening telescope viewing.
Opening hours – Wednesday – Sunday, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Check their latest programs and opening hours on their website here.
CHECK OUT THE NORTHERN MUSEUM OF ARIZONA
One of the cosy things to do indoors when in Flagstaff in winter is visiting the amazing Museum of Northern Arizona.
The offers warm indoor galleries are known for their exquisite collection of artefacts and exhibits that’ll give you deep insights into Native American history.
You can learn about indigenous cultures in their winter exhibitions, including the community’s ways of coping and thriving in these same mountains during harsh winters.
EXPLORE WALNUT CANYON NATIONAL MONUMENT
If you are looking for fantastic day trips from Flagstaff that you can easily access, head to Walnut Canyon National Monument, located east of the city.
It is one of the famous Arizona National Monuments known for its historic ancient cliff dwellings and many fabulous hiking trails, offering plenty of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.
A 600-foot-deep gorge is home to more than 300 gorgeous Sinagua Indian cliff dwelling ruins from 1120 AD.
These fascinating multi-room dwellings in protected alcoves high in the canyon walls are well-preserved examples of their marvelous engineering and architectural skills.
The site was abandoned, possibly due to drought or tribal warfare.
Walnut Canyon National Monument was established in 1915 to help protect the sites and conserve the cliff dwellings.
Walnut Canyon is known for its distinct and beautiful white Kaibab limestone formations, amidst which you will find many of these fantastic cliff dwellings, which were former family homes overhanging on the ledges of the canyons.
These single-family dwellings are visible from the Visitor Center, and hiking is the best way to experience the cliff dwellings at Walnut Canyon National Monument.
The Island Trail, a one-mile trail, beginning at the visitor centre, descending 185 feet into the canyon and comprising over 700 stairs, winds its way past 25 ancient dwellings.
From the foot of the stairs, follow the trail to one of the simple pueblos and step inside.
You will see the fantastic windows and doors of ancient dwellings tucked between uneven rock layers, examples of simple yet brilliant masonry skills.
Look down to see the beautiful Walnut Creek, the water source for the residents, flowing to the east to join the Colorado River, which eventually flows through the Grand Canyon.
If you want a more accessible trail, the Rim Trail, a 0.7-mile round-trip flat trail, which passes by a partially rebuilt pueblo and a pit house, offers excellent views of the canyon and the ancient dwellings on the far side.
Although the park is open year-round, it snows and gets colder in the winter.
Check out the museum on the premises to learn about the pre-Columbian culture and the Sinagua people.
There are no camping or lodging facilities within the park, but camping is available in the surrounding Kaibab and Coconino national forests.
GO ON A HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDE
One of the fun things to do in Flagstaff in winter between December through January is enjoying a magical horse-drawn carriage ride through historic downtown Flagstaff.
The ride departs from the Flagstaff Visitor Center and takes you on a scenic, non-stop tour of downtown’s charming streets.
WUPATKI NATIONAL MONUMENT
One of the famous Arizona national monuments is located north of Flagstaff in the north-central part of the state.
Located next to Sunset Crater, Wupatki National Monument is a fascinating place encompassing a staggering series of archaeological sites and centuries-old settlements built by the Ancient Pueblo People.
Winter is one of the best times to explore this stunning monument, and I highly recommend adding to the list of the best things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
You can explore the ruins in a few hours, completing a few hikes.
You can add a visit to Wupatki as one of the day trips from Flagstaff or combine it with a visit to the neighboring Sun Crater, where camping is available.
Waupatki National Monument, known for being home to the ancient Anasazi or Pueblo people, comprises ruins of five red pueblo ruins dating to the 12th century, built from slabs of the region’s brick-red Moenkopi sandstone in the open grasslands symbolising the Sinagua and Anasazi cultures,
The pueblo is the ancestral remains of a Hopi Indian village, built by the Hisatsinom people, who are ancestors of today’s Hopi tribe.
The area was a farming community and was one of northern Arizona’s most densely populated areas since around 500 AD.
The violent eruption of the nearby Sunset Crater Volcano around AD 1085 forced people to relocate to a new area as ash was spread over 800 square miles of land.
The sites were abandoned, with almost 2,700 buildings of bright red rock dwellings left behind.
Visitors can go inside the 900-year-old Wukoki Pueblo, the monument’s main attraction and the largest structure in the park.
This structure had over a hundred rooms and a ball court on show.
You can reach Wukoki Pueblo by a half-mile round-trip walk on a paved pathway.
Enjoy the gorgeous views over the Painted Desert and nearby San Francisco peaks from the trail.
Don’t miss the short hike up to Citadel Pueblo, atop a steep hill offering splendid views of the distinct desert’s wilderness.
RECOMMENDED GUIDED TOUR
From Sedona or Flagstaff: Ruins & Volcanoes Small-Group Tour
SUNSET CRATER VOLCANO NATIONAL MONUMENT
Just a short distance from Flagstaff in north-central Arizona is a fantastic world of volcanoes, lava tubes, and cinder cones.
One of the offbeat Arizona national monuments, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, is home to the Sunset Crater, the youngest of over 600 volcanoes that make up the San Francisco Peaks.
In this national monument rising above the foothills and lava fields surrounding it, you can view the dramatic jet-black lava flows and towering cinder cones of Sunset Crater, an extinct volcano with shades of red, orange and yellow that erupted about 1,000 years ago.
It last erupted in 1085 that transformed the landscapes completely.
One of the best places to enjoy the night sky in Arizona is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.
The easiest way to do this is to camp at the Bonito Campground.
The scenic drive trail is open 24 hours a day, all year, so if you are not into camping, it is a top place for driving around and stopping by to soak in the blissful Arizona night sky.
Simply drive around the park area and stop and enjoy wherever you feel it is the best.
Many forest roads branch off and leave Sunset Crater Volcano Park, which means you can camp there for a night or two.
PICNIC AT BUFFALO PARK
One of the best things to do in Flagstaff in winter is Buffalo city park.
With spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks, Buffalo Park offers a vast network of trails, making it a popular spot for hikers.
Buffalo Park is a fantastic destination for sledding in Flagstaff.
It is a favourite winter pass time among locals and tourists thanks to spacious grounds and many sledding hills, but despite being famous, it is less crowded due to its remote location.
From snowball fights to snow angels and creating snowmen, you’ll have a blast with your family here for sure.
It’s a wide-open park with hiking trails and plenty of space. The hills are a bit smaller, so great for the younger kids.
Spread across hundreds of acres, Buffalo Park is among the largest areas for sledding and snow play.
There are also many hiking trails where you can have slices of the grounds for yourself, and also bring your pets!
There are permanent restrooms and a picnic ramada.
VISIT OLD CAVES CRATER
One of the outdoor things to do in Flagstaff in winter is Old Caves Crater, where ancient history and winter wonderland collide in the most spectacular fashion!
Think of it as nature’s StairMaster with a PhD in archaeology – a 3-mile trail that winds through snow-dusted Ponderosa pines and leads to some seriously prime 14th-century real estate.
As you huff and puff your way up this volcanic formation in the Coconino National Forest, you’ll notice the vegetation pulling a costume change – tall Ponderosas giving way to sturdy pinyon-juniper forests, all dressed in their winter whites.
But the real stars of the show? The fascinating cave dwellings scattered across the slopes, where Native Americans once lived (talk about rooms with a view!).
When you reach the summit, prepare for a view that’ll make your phone’s camera roll feel inadequate – the snow-capped San Francisco Peaks spreading out before you like nature’s own panoramic masterpiece.
Just remember to check with the Coconino National Forest Service before your winter adventure – Mother Nature can be quite the unpredictable host this time of year!
ENJOY BEER TASTING
Beer tasting may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but one of the unique things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
The historic downtown area hosts several noteworthy breweries within walking distance of each other, though you might want to consider ride-sharing services during snowy conditions.
Dark Sky Brewing Co. stands out for its experimental approach, offering rotating taps and winter-worthy options like bourbon barrel-aged stouts.
Meanwhile, Mother Road Brewing Company, a local institution named after Route 66, serves their famous Tower Station IPA alongside seasonal specialities in a spacious taproom where you can watch snowfall through large windows.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, Wanderlust Brewing Company specializes in Belgian-style ales and European traditions, while Historic Brewing Company’s barrel-aged program shines with warming options like their cherry-vanilla Piehole Porter.
Each brewery offers flight options, perfect for sampling their winter releases alongside year-round favorites.
Most breweries complement their beers with hearty winter-appropriate food menus, from warm pretzels to wood-fired pizzas.
SOAK IN THE MAGNIFICENT VIEWS OF THE GRAND CANYON
One of the best things to do in Flagstaff in winter is planning a day trip to Grand Canyon.
Winter is one of the best times to explore this wonderful national park.
Grand Canyon in winter is a fabulous experience, without the crowds and beautiful snow sprinkled.
Spanning 277 miles of the Colorado River, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most beautiful landmarks in the United States, the majestic icon of Arizona and one of the natural wonders of the world that will sweep you off your feet with its spectacular beauty of the panoramas of the Canyons.
As a frequent visitor to one of the magnificent wonders of the world, I cannot get enough of the surreal views no matter what time of year or how many times I visit and is my favorite on the Arizona Bucket List.
It is hard for me to pick a favourite season or the incredible places to take in the best Grand Canyon Views.
This vast national park is beautiful in the spring and fall, but I love visiting Grand Canyon in the winter as well, thanks to the pleasant weather, powdery snow, and roads that open up for driving(they are closed during the other seasons).
I highly recommend enjoying the beautiful Grand Canyon sunset from the top spots.
If you prefer fewer crowds, start your day by admiring the spectacular sunrise in the Grand Canyon National Park.
If you are wondering what to do in Grand Canyon in winter or if it is even worth visiting, check out my guide to learn more.
Here are some of the popular tours I recommend to explore the magnificent Grand Canyon National Park in different, unique ways.
✅ BEST JEEP TOUR
Grand Entrance Grand Canyon Tour – Pink Jeep(5/5 100+ reviews🤩) – Get to know the Grand Canyon on this guided Jeep tour around the South Rim with hotel pickup from Tusayan. This is the best Pink Jeep and Grand Canyon combo tour I recommend.
Enjoy the Grand Canyon’s brilliant colors, cliffs, and rock formations while learning about the history and geology of the area from the expert tour guide. Find out more details here.
✅ BEST HIKING IN GRAND CANYON
✅Private Grand Canyon Hike and Sightseeing Tour(4.8/5 400+ reviews🤩) – If you want hike the Grand Canyon, this tour is for you.
Enjoy varied views of the Grand Canyon, from the inside and out, with a short hike down the South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point before getting in a van and traveling to various viewpoints around the Rim, such as Mather Point, Grandview Point, Moran Point, Tusayan Ruins, and Desert View Watchtower. Check out more details here.
✅WANT TO BE WEDDED HERE?😍😍😍
😍Grand Canyon Helicopter Wedding(4.8/5 50+ reviews🤩) – Want a dream wedding destination idea? Say “I do” with a view with this Grand Canyon Helicopter Wedding package.
Make your way over one America’s most stunning natural wonders in a six-seat helicopter and enjoy the ease and convenience of having all the details and planning done for you. ✅ Read more here to plan your wedding!
✅BEST SUNSET TOUR
✅Sunset in the Grand Canyon(5/5 100+ reviews🤩) – See the sunset over the Grand Canyon—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—during this full-day tour from Sedona or Village of Oak Creek.
Visit a historic Navajo trading post and eat dinner at the Grand Canyon Village. National Park entrance fees and round-trip hotel transportation from included. Check out more details here.
✅BEST AERIAL TOUR
✅ Grand Canyon Aerial Tour (AIR) (5/5 100+ reviews🤩)- This is the best tour hands-down to soak in the magnificent views of the national park from above, worth your money and time.
In this once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience, see the Grand Canyon from high in the sky as your pilot will take you above the widest, deepest part of the Grand Canyon, and also flying above Tonto National Forest, the Red Rock formations of Sedona, the Painted Desert, and the Navajo reservation. Check out more here.
✅ BEST RAILWAY JOURNEY
✅Grand Canyon Railway Adventure Package(5/5 5000+ reviews🤩) – This is the most popular experience loved by everyone wanting to hop on the train. Journey across the Northern Arizona countryside on a full-day journey aboard the Grand Canyon Railway.
Hear folklore and stories from the crew. I highly recommend this for everyone! Find more details here.
✅ Grand Canyon Tour from Williams(5/5 200+ reviews🤩) – Discover the south rim of this stunning location on a full-day tour from Williams, Arizona. Alongside a small group, stop at several viewpoints and learn about the history, geology, and ecology of the national park.
This tour is the best way to check this off your bucket list. Find more details here.
✅ BEST LUXURY TOUR
✅ Private Grand Canyon in Luxury SUV Tour(5/5 100+ reviews🤩) – On this day trip, check out with just your group and a guide who knows the best viewpoints, shortcuts, and ways to beat the canyon crowds.
Check out as the local history and geology—you can expect a comfortable and customizable experience. Enjoy delicious lunch at the historic El Tovar lodge. Check out more here.
THINGS TO DO IN FLAGSTAFF IN WINTER DURING CHRISTMAS
PLAN A DAY TRIP TO ARIZONA NORDIC VILLAGE
If you want to go beyond resorts for skiing in Arizona, Arizona Nordic Village is one of the famous places loved by outdoor enthusiasts.
It is one of the best things to do in Arizona in December.
Spending a night or two is the best way to experience a magical Flagstaff Christmas with your loved ones.
Located in the Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff, Arizona Nordic Village features over 40 miles of groomed cross-country ski, snowshoeing and snow-biking trails through fantastic Aspen and Ponderosa pine forests.
Since it is located in the foothills of Arizona’s tallest mountain range, you will be treated to the magnificent scenery Northern Arizona has to offer.
You can even stay overnight at the yurt village overlooking stunning views of the surrounding forest.
Note that reservations for equipment rentals must be made by 3 PM three days before your visit.
Opening hours – 9 AM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 9 PM Fridays if conditions allow.
One of the best seasons to experience a lot more while in Flagstaff in Winter is making it your Christmas trip. It is a perfect family destination for reveling in the Christmas holiday spirits!
I spent the holidays for a week last year, and I must say, I had one of the most memorable experiences enjoying Flagstaff Christmas. You can read the complete guide here.
Below are the some of the Christmas things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
BE A PART OF THE WINTER WONDERLAND AND HOLIDAY PARADE
Kick off your holiday season in Downtown, known for its signature Flagstaff Christmas event – The Winter Wonderland, the official version in Arizona.
The historic downtown gets decked up brilliantly with thousands of dazzling holiday lights, seasonal shops, and activities perfect to get you in the Christmas spirit.
Be here on the first Saturday of December at 3 PM to see the colorful lights popping up across the streets.
Lots of live music, plenty of delicious Christmas desserts, drinks, and activities follow the light display.
Watch the lighting of the giant Christmas tree around 5:30 PM. It is followed by a visit by Santa, and you get to meet and greet him too.
Watch the holiday parade after the lighting to see hundreds of floats of different sizes and shapes, carol music, performance of street artists and more.
WITNESS THE FESTIVAL OF TREES
Flagstaff is blessed with abundant pine trees everywhere, adorned with beautiful light displays and decorations, amidst snow-capped mountains.
But one of the unique Flagstaff Christmas events you should not miss is the Festival of Trees at the famous landmark, Arboretum.
Among the most visited attractions in the city thanks to its 200+ acres of trails and 2,500+ native species of plants, ponds, wetlands and abundant wildlife, the festival is a winter bonus.
During the Festival of Trees, the Arboretum will showcase trees, wreaths, lights, and many other spirited displays created by the locals.
The festival of trees begins during Thanksgiving and runs until the first week of December. Check the exact dates and timings on their website.
Prices – $5 per adult, Children 5 and under – free
GO FOR A CHRISTMAS FAMILY DINNER
Many restaurants sparkle during the holidays with many vibrant themed lights, but one of the fun things to do in these restaurants and hotels on your Flagstaff Christmas trip is to enjoy a delicious dinner.
The Little America Hotel is famous for its dinner in the beautiful Silver Pine Restaurant.
Enjoy a four-course meal including seasonal soups impeccable entrees and mouth-watering best Christmas dessert options including Little America’s renowned bread pudding with rum sauce.
Once you have filled yourself with the delicious Christmas Dinner, check out the Holiday Lights that the Little America Hotel has on display for the holidays.
Or plan your Holiday 3-Course Dinner at Woodlands at the DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff, just off Historic Route 66.
It is best to book your table in advance. And don’t forget to dress for the event.
ENJOY SLEDDING
One of the popular Flagstaff Christmas activities loved by families is sledding.
From snow slopes in the forests to city parks with designated areas, there are many excellent opportunities for enjoying sledding in Flagstaff.
Play in the snow, make snowmen, and have snowball fights in Flagstaff’s snowy areas.
Relax and enjoy the views with hot chocolate or sitting by the bonfire.
Depending on your preference, you can head to any of these sledding areas.
Check my guide to Flagstaff sledding areas to plan your adventures!
LEARN ICE SKATING
A fun addition to Flagstaff Christmas celebrations is ice skating.
One of the west winter getaways, Flagstaff is a hotspot for snow lovers.
One of the popular skating rinks is at the Flagstaff Visitor Center, right in the heart of downtown.
And the Jay Lively Activity Center allows you to experience all the winter sports, including being home to one of the top Arizona ice skating rinks, open throughout the year.
Located at the Northern Arizona University campus, it is the home stadium of The NAU Ice Jacks, the hockey team.
If you time it right, you can even plan to watch a game before or after having fun at one of the public skates any time of the week.
You can learn skating by attending the classes.
Head next to Snowbowl Ski Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Arizona for enjoying skiing and snowboarding.
You can easily plan a fun-filled, action-packed weekend by adding a stop at the Jay Lively Activity Center.
Prices – $7 per person
TAKE YOUR KIDS FOR A BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
Having breakfast with Santa is among the many fun things kids enjoy during the holiday.
And there are many places to do that as Santa is an essential part of Flagstaff Christmas celebrations everywhere.
The historic Weatherford Hotel in Downtown Flagstaff is a popular spot for breakfast with Santa, along with posing with him.
Reserve your tickets for a delicious hot buffet breakfast, along with music. Make sure to dress up for this fun event.
To purchase your tickets directly through the Weatherford Hotel check their website here.
Timings – 7 AM to 11 AM on select days through
WHERE TO STAY?
✅ Little America Hotel Flagstaff – Just off I-40, this stunning hotel with an outdoor pool is located on 500 acres of Ponderosa Pine forest.
This hotel, with thousands of high-rated reviews, is popular among families and couples.
Free transport services to Flagstaff Pulliam Airport are offered during limited hours. Check out more details here.
