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FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA - A BRIEF HISTORY

Flagstaff, Arizona, is a beautiful city located in the mountainous and forested northern area of the state. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Flagstaff is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or just taking in the stunning mountain scenery over a local craft brew, Flagstaff is a fantastic place to visit.

A Rich History

The area around Flagstaff has been inhabited for thousands of years by various indigenous peoples, including the Hopi, Navajo, and Sinagua. 

In the late 1800s, the area that would become Flagstaff was settled by pioneers who were attracted to the region’s natural resources, including timber and minerals.  The area’s plentiful bounty helped establish a sawmill and logging operation in the area in the 1870s, the remnants of which are now a part of the Coconino National Forest. 

In 1882, a group of Boston investors, led by Percival Lowell, founded the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. The observatory became known for its research on the planets of our solar system and for the discovery of Pluto in 1930.

Flagstaff’s location on the historic Route 66 highway, which connected Chicago to Los Angeles, brought increased tourism and commerce to the city in the early 20th century. During World War II, Flagstaff was also home to a military training facility, the Navajo Ordinance Depot, which trained soldiers in ammunition handling and storage.

Today, Flagstaff is home to Northern Arizona University and continues to be a hub for scientific research and outdoor recreation. It is known for its proximity to the Grand Canyon, views of the San Francisco Peaks, and dark skies for stargazing.

A City for Any Occasion

One of the main attractions in Flagstaff, enjoyed by visitors and sporty locals alike, is spending a day skiing (or just riding the lifts!) at Snow Bowl Resort.  Here you can find state of the art ski facilities, sport shops, mountainside dining, and even cozy lodging cabins so you can rest up before tackling the slopes all over again!

Another unique destination in Flagstaff is the Lowell Observatory. Known for its research and education programs, it’s a great place to learn about astronomy and space exploration, and offers the thrilling opportunity to peek through state of the art telescopes for some of the best stargazing in the world. The observatory also has a visitors center that offers tours and educational exhibits.

For history buffs, Flagstaff is home to the Museum of Northern Arizona. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of northern Arizona, and it features exhibits on the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area, as well as displays on the region’s natural history.

One of the most striking attractions in Flagstaff’s immediate area is the Wupatki National Monument. The monument features the ruins of several ancient Native American villages, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region. The monument also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and it’s a great place to take a hike or a picnic.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back activity, Flagstaff has plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. The downtown area is particularly charming, boasting historic buildings that hold bustling local businesses. 

Need some artistic inspiration?  Stop by a First Friday Art Walk and check out the newest displays by local artists! 

There are also several art galleries and museums in the area, as well as a thriving music and theater scene.

Overall, Flagstaff is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of northern Arizona. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, history, or just relaxing in a beautiful setting, Flagstaff has something to offer. Plan your visit today and see for yourself what makes this city so special!

View Flagstaff’s LIVE webcam!

This article was originally published on Feb. 24, 2023 and revised in Feb. 2025. 

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