Finding a Hotel in Flagstaff
Take advantage of the great outdoors in Flagstaff, Arizona, a small city towards the northern end of the State that is surrounded by mountains and national parks. One of the biggest draws to Flagstaff is its proximity to the Grand Canyon National Park, which is located 60 mi (97 km) to the north. Flagstaff is also known as Arizona’s primary skiing destination, with the nearby Arizona Snowbowl being one of the first ski resorts established in the United States. In summer, the surrounding mountains are perfect for hiking, biking and rock climbing.
There’s plenty to do in town too. The Lowell Observatory—the very spot where Pluto was discovered—is great for visitors to get their geek on with guided tours and information sessions, and the Museum of Northern Arizona explains the complex history of the area.
ORIENTATION
Situated on the Interstate 40 Highway between Albuquerque and California, Flagstaff is most commonly accessed via car, but it does have a regional airport, which offers service to Los Angeles and Phoenix. The closest international airport is located in the larger city of Phoenix, about 150 mi (241 km) south.
DOWNTOWN
Flagstaff’s historic city centre gives visitors the best glimpse into the varied history of this city, which officially got its start in 1876. History buffs will enjoy the Hotel Monte Vista, which is almost an attraction in itself. Established in 1926, the hotel has welcomes many colorful characters during its run, and these days is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including a bank robber and a few “ladies of the night” from Flagstaff’s historic red light district. Still plenty of notable people have braved the ghosts and survived, including celebrities like Bing Crosby, Michael Stipe, Bob Hope and Michael J. Fox.
Just a block away is an even older hotel—the grand Hotel Weatherford, which got its start in the year 1900. These days, it’s been restored to its former glory with many charming accents and antiques reminiscent of the hotel’s beginnings during the Wild West. There’s even an old-style saloon on the premises.
SOUTH OF DOWNTOWN
South of downtown, Flagstaff is transformed into a University town with the Northern Arizona University campus dominating the landscape. Not surprisingly, this area is a hub of vibrant activity, as this is where bars, restaurants and shops line the streets. Travelers to this part of town will find a number of brand-name chain hotels, as well as a few independent options, including the Travel Inn 66, a friendly, family-run motel situated on the historic Route 66. Amenities include two pools, a sauna and a complimentary breakfast.
FLAGSTAFF'S WEST SIDE
A number of great hotel options are available on the west side of town too. Historic Route 66 is lined with smaller, independent motels while the busier I-40 is populated with chain hotels, particularly around the luxurious Continental Golf and Country Club. For those who want the convenience of the highway without getting too far out of downtown, the elegant Little America Hotel is a great choice. Situated on 500 acres of Ponderosa Pine Forest, Little America provides a natural wilderness setting but the hotel itself is all about luxury. Each of its 245 rooms is finely adorned with lush furnishings and accessories, and the amenities include a heated outdoor pool, a fine dining restaurant and lounge, a gift shop and a fitness center. In addition, the hotel offers activities like volleyball, croquet and even a kid’s playground.
There’s plenty to do in town too. The Lowell Observatory—the very spot where Pluto was discovered—is great for visitors to get their geek on with guided tours and information sessions, and the Museum of Northern Arizona explains the complex history of the area.
ORIENTATION
Situated on the Interstate 40 Highway between Albuquerque and California, Flagstaff is most commonly accessed via car, but it does have a regional airport, which offers service to Los Angeles and Phoenix. The closest international airport is located in the larger city of Phoenix, about 150 mi (241 km) south.
DOWNTOWN
Flagstaff’s historic city centre gives visitors the best glimpse into the varied history of this city, which officially got its start in 1876. History buffs will enjoy the Hotel Monte Vista, which is almost an attraction in itself. Established in 1926, the hotel has welcomes many colorful characters during its run, and these days is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including a bank robber and a few “ladies of the night” from Flagstaff’s historic red light district. Still plenty of notable people have braved the ghosts and survived, including celebrities like Bing Crosby, Michael Stipe, Bob Hope and Michael J. Fox.
Just a block away is an even older hotel—the grand Hotel Weatherford, which got its start in the year 1900. These days, it’s been restored to its former glory with many charming accents and antiques reminiscent of the hotel’s beginnings during the Wild West. There’s even an old-style saloon on the premises.
SOUTH OF DOWNTOWN
South of downtown, Flagstaff is transformed into a University town with the Northern Arizona University campus dominating the landscape. Not surprisingly, this area is a hub of vibrant activity, as this is where bars, restaurants and shops line the streets. Travelers to this part of town will find a number of brand-name chain hotels, as well as a few independent options, including the Travel Inn 66, a friendly, family-run motel situated on the historic Route 66. Amenities include two pools, a sauna and a complimentary breakfast.
FLAGSTAFF'S WEST SIDE
A number of great hotel options are available on the west side of town too. Historic Route 66 is lined with smaller, independent motels while the busier I-40 is populated with chain hotels, particularly around the luxurious Continental Golf and Country Club. For those who want the convenience of the highway without getting too far out of downtown, the elegant Little America Hotel is a great choice. Situated on 500 acres of Ponderosa Pine Forest, Little America provides a natural wilderness setting but the hotel itself is all about luxury. Each of its 245 rooms is finely adorned with lush furnishings and accessories, and the amenities include a heated outdoor pool, a fine dining restaurant and lounge, a gift shop and a fitness center. In addition, the hotel offers activities like volleyball, croquet and even a kid’s playground.
