Mostly known for being the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks, a great stop on the way to Grand Canyon National Park and being surrounded by surreally beautiful desert landscapes, mountains and ponderosa pine forests the laid-back, quirky Arizona city is fast becoming an awesome travel destination in its own right.
Not just for outdoor adventurers, it has an offbeat charm and plenty to keep other visitors happy, including popular farm-to-table eateries, craft breweries, a new ale trail, a vibrant shopping scene and Old West and Route 66 landmarks. There’s also a way to make your stay equally as fun-loving and creative, by staying in one of these cool and unusual hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona (in no particular order)…
1. Little America Hotel Flagstaff – a hip, trendy and Insta-worthy hotel set in a 500-acres private forest,
This glamorous, luxury hotel is Flagstaff’s only AAA rated Four Diamond hotel and the meticulous traditional styling and attention to excellence is on show everywhere you look.
Nestled at the base of the San Francisco Peaks in 500 acres of Ponderosa Pine Forest, the hotel offers inviting hospitality coupled with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Situated close to many of Arizona’s breathtaking outdoor natural attractions, guests can fill their days exploring scenic wonders like the Grand Canyon or Meteor Crater.
For the culturally minded, there are plenty of museums and galleries to experience nearby in Flagstaff. And for your evenings, relax and unwind at the hotel’s luxuriously appointed Silver Pine restaurant and bar.
For a special holiday experience, treat the family to the North Pole adventure this Christmas. Enjoy a sumptuous festive season breakfast and ride the trolley through the magic portal in the forest, decorated with over a million Christmas lights. Visit Santa’s grand workshop, work with the elves and meet Santa Claus himself.
- To book, check prices or availability for Little America Hotel Flagstaff
2. High Country Motor Lodge – a cool and fun boutique-style pet-friendly hotel that provides evening entertainment perfect for Millenials and Gen Zs
Located off Route 66, conveniently near the airport and only a mile away from Riordon Mansion and the Northern Arizona University, High Country Motor Lodge blends vintage chic with contemporary design. Offering an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and an in-house bar and restaurant, the weary traveler will find a welcome haven to re-energize or just simply relax.
Vacationers looking for interesting recreation opportunities will find the Lowell Observatory and Walk-up SkyDome close by and there is easy access to Arizona’s vast wilderness. Enjoy inspiring days exploring rugged mountains and forests and hit the slopes in winter at the Arizona Snowbowl.
- To book, check prices or availability for High Country Motor Lodge
3. Weatherford Hotel – a quirky chic historic hotel that is very close to Route 66 and dates back from 1897
For the adventurous traveler seeking vibrant nightlife and entertainment, the historic Weatherford Hotel in Flagstaff was simply made for you. Located in the center of the city’s historic downtown district, you’ll find plenty of action with restaurants and bars, nightclubs, fine dining and live entertainment venues.
Immerse yourself in the local history and cram your days visiting art galleries, boutique shops, museums and cafes. The hotel provides free parking, and room service and organizes tours for guests.
The Weatherford has origins dating as far back as 1897 and even with the occasional renovations over its history, it still retains that quaint, vintage ambiance. The rooms are styled in that charming, turn-of-the-century decor that recalls the lost grandeur of yesteryear.
- To book, check prices or availability for Weatherford Hotel
4. Bespoke Inn Flagstaff – a cozy boutique inn that blends historic charm and modern amenities
This elegant Inn welcomes its guests with an atmosphere of casual luxury and a comforting muted ambiance. Its distinctive flair sets it apart from other hotels with jaunty aplomb. Situated in the arts district of Old Town Scottsdale, the inn is celebrated for its private and intimate setting, with a charming courtyard and private patios.
The hotel and its guest rooms are stylish and well-appointed, with a tasteful blend of historic charm and the latest amenities. Guests can enjoy a swim in the infinity pool, sip Bespoke Blend coffee, or take a cycling adventure around the district on one of the inn’s famous hand-crafted Pashley bicycles.
- To book, check prices or availability for Bespoke Inn Flagstaff
5. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort – a fun resort based in a prime location, perfect for those who want to party
With an enviable Triple A Four Diamond rating, this resort hotel is one of four casino hotels and convention centers in the Navajo Nation.
It sits amidst magnificent natural landmarks and offers easy access to Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise attractions like the Navajo Arts & Crafts Enterprise, the Navajo Nation Museum at Window Rock, and the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation areas that function to preserve so many awe-inspiring natural monuments.
Along with the hotel and convention facilities, this modern luxury resort hosts a Navajo gaming casino and several gourmet dining experiences, with an option culturally-infused dining to choose from. Top hotel amenities include an express valet parking service, an indoor heated pool, a whirlpool and a modern fitness center.
- To book, check prices or availability for Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort
6. Starlight Pines Bed & Breakfast – a chic and charming Victorian-style B&B with uniquely decorated rooms
Located at the foot of Mount Elden, just 10 minutes from downtown Flagstaff, the Starlight Pines is a comfortable and affordable B&B in a quaint, Victorian-style house.
Filled with antiques, this charming home offers four rooms complete with claw-footed bathtubs from yesteryear alongside the latest amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy hot breakfasts, a wood-burning fireplace, and some seriously contemplative relaxation on the wraparound front porch complete with wicker furniture and a swing.
Some of the guest rooms provide fireplaces or private balconies with mountain views. Each guest room has its own private bathroom and tea and coffee-making facilities.
- To book, check prices or availability for Starlight Pines Bed & Breakfast
7. Mission Timber Time – a modern trendy vacation home that offers an on-site children’s playground and cool attractions nearby
For a relaxing change of scenery treat the family to a stay at Mission Timber Time. Located beneath soaring mountains and surrounded by the forest, this modern holiday townhouse is nestled in the Presidio in the Pines 91-acre mixed-use urban village in Flagstaff. Along with the inspiring mountain views, this vacation home offers every amenity to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
There is a children’s playground on-site and recreational sightseeing at some of Arizona’s most breathtaking natural scenery, nearby. It is just minutes from downtown Flagstaff and attractions like the North Pole Experience, the Continental Golf Club, and the Orpheum Theater. For the more adventurous holiday-makers, there are challenging outdoor activities like hiking and biking and winter sports on the slopes, in season.
- To book, check prices or availability for Mission Timber Time
8. Moondrift Manor – unique accommodation perfect for exploring skiing and cycling activities
Moondrift Manor is a well-appointed, centrally located vacation home, just 6km from the Flagstaff Plaza Shopping Center. The holiday house sleeps up to 12 guests. Your comfort is assured with modern facilities like a fully equipped kitchen, cable TV, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, a laundry, a hot tub and a balcony with mountain views.
Guests are surrounded by inspiring scenic attractions to explore. Immerse yourself in plenty of cultural activities without venturing very far from your accommodation.
It is just 3km to the North Pole Experience where the whole family can meet Santa and help his elves make toys in their grand workshop. It is only 5km from the Northern Arizona University, while the Coconino County Fairgrounds are just 9 km away. Outdoor challenges include skiing, hiking and cycling.
- To book, check prices or availability for Moondrift Manor
9. Flagstaff Cabin with a Fireplace – a rustic-chic holiday home, perfect for a longer stay and relaxing vacation
Hidden away in the woods on a 5-acre property, this secluded rustic cabin is the perfect holiday retreat. Scenic views from the cabin include the picturesque San Francisco Peaks.
Enjoy some quiet contemplation to recharge your energy by dallying on the porch swing, roasting alongside the outdoor fire pit, soaking in the spa bath or lounging in front of an indoor roaring fireplace. Nearby outdoor recreation areas offer cross-country skiing or snowboarding in winter, or hiking and cycling in the warmer seasons.
With upscale barn-style décor and loft, the four-bedroom cabin sleeps up to seven guests and provides cable TV, wi-fi, three bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen and laundry.
- To book, check prices or availability for Flagstaff Cabin with a Fireplace
10. Comfort Inn I-17 & I-40 Flagstaff – a popular stay in Flagstaff that offers a fitness centre and a business centre
Enjoy exploring the wonders of the red rocks of Sedona, admiring the Walnut Canyon National Monument or tackling winter sports at the Snowbowl, then unwind and chill out back at the Comfort Inn I-17 & I-40 for the evening. In-house attractions include a roaring fireplace in the lobby and an outdoor hot tub. This award-winning Inn even offers pet-friendly rooms that welcome your fur babies.
- To book, check prices or availability for Comfort Inn I-17 & I-40 Flagstaff
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Gary is an award winning full time professional photographer and videographer with too much wanderlust for his own good. Fuelled by strong coffee, you’ll often find him wandering well off hiking trails in search of interesting photographic subjects or scenery to video. Self taught and with the use of pioneering digital techniques, he quickly built up a strong client base and has worked with many prestigious organisations, including GQ, BBC, London Fashion Week, Grazia, Sky, Metro, Vogue Italia. He specialising in evocative images of people, places and cinematic videography and his goal is to make the viewer look twice and engage. As well as a penchant for good design, the ketogenic diet and Hungarian Vizslas, he also has a huge affection for Chicago, Bucharest, Scandinavia, Croatia and absolutely everywhere in Italy. Find him on Instagram @garynansome, Twitter @garynansome and his website https://garynunn.co.uk/