Get ready to discover the best places to stay in Flagstaff – these are the top neighbourhoods and hotels for your next trip. Whether you fancy a quiet escape or a trip filled with epic nightlife, here’s what you need to know.
Buckle up – I’m about to take you on a whistle stop tour of Flagstaff to help you decide where to stay.
Surrounded by desert, mountains and plenty of Ponderosa pine, this gorgeous little city makes for a perfect pitstop as part of an Arizona road trip. But deciding where to bed down can be tricky – luckily, I’m here to guide you.
Read on to find out where to stay in Flagstaff, area by area.
Best Places to Stay in Flagstaff: At a Glance
| Best Places to in Flagstaff – Top Picks | Hotel |
| Best Overall Hotel in Flagstaff | Little America Hotel Flagstaff |
| Best Flagstaff Hotel for Budget Travellers | Castle Rock |
| Best Flagstaff Hotel for Incredible Views | Courtyard by Marriott Flagstaff |
| Best Flagstaff Hotel for Pet Owners | DoubleTree by Hilton |
Best Places to Stay in Flagstaff, AZ
Let me not waste any more of your time; there are several places to stay in Flagstaff, AZ, waiting for you — let’s get into it.
Downtown: Overall the Best Place to Stay in Flagstaff
There’s no better place to kick off this guide than with Flagstaff’s downtown area. This is the city’s central commercial hub, with a lively atmosphere and many eateries lining the streets.
It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re visiting Flagstaff, or the surrounding areas, for the first time. Don’t get your hopes up for any major attractions in Downtown itself, but you’ll be within arm’s reach of all the good stuff. Plus, the hotels are gorgeous.
That doesn’t mean the area has nothing going for itself, though, with craft breweries, gift shops and boutiques galore here.
Downtown Flagstaff Highlights
Lowell Observatory
Lowell Observatory was a highlight of my time in Flagstaff. Explore a galaxy of possibilities through various telescopes for the ultimate Arizona stargazing experience. There are also several exhibits for anyone keen to nerd out.
Wheeler Park
Wheeler Park is sometimes an ordinary green space perfect for a picnic or days spent gazing at the sky on the benches. On other days, it’s a bustling square where live music events often steal the show.
Orpheum Theater
A stop at the Orpheum Theater is a must if you love theatrical performances. It also plays host to other performing arts like stand-up sets and more.
Suggested Flagstaff Hotels in Downtown
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is easily one of the best places to stay in downtown Flagstaff. You can start the day with an American breakfast and end it on an even better note by the spa or at a rejuvenating hot tub. Do you even need anything else?
Weatherford Hotel
Weatherford Hotel may seem mundane from the outside, but you’d be mistaken to think it’s boring. Inside, you’ll find a restaurant, bar and comfy rooms equipped with everything you could possibly need for a cosy (but lowkey) stay.
Hotel Aspen Flagstaff
For simple, no-frills accommodation, enjoy a stay at Hotel Aspen Flagstaff. Perks include free (and super-fast) Wi-Fi and dreamy mountain views from your room.
Southside: Where to Stay in Flagstaff for Nightlife
Just a bit further from Downtown is the incredible Southside neighbourhood. It’s the best place to stay in Flagstaff if you want to end your epic days with an evening to remember (or forget).
The Southside neighbourhood has various pubs and bars to get your groove on. The Foram Bar-Grill-Nightclub is where all the cool kids (AKA adults who still love their youth) gather for a fun night, although the Southside Tavern is also viable.
Southside Flagstaff Highlights
Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival
FlagShakes, as it’s affectionately known, is the premier spot for watching classics from the Renaissance era from talents like Shakespeare. It’s a seasonal activity, usually open from May up to December.
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Escape the busy Southside Flagstaff streets with a stop at Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, where towering trees are the highlight.
Sawmill Multicultural Art and Nature County Park
Unlike most parks, Sawmill Multicultural Art and Nature County Park also has murals and sculptures you can feast your eyes on, in addition to the greenery. And you know me – I love street art.
Suggested Flagstaff Hotels in Southside
DoubleTree by Hilton
DoubleTree by Hilton is one of the best dog-friendly places to stay in Flagstaff. Rooms are stylish and modern, as you would expect from a Hilton, and (this is the best bit) they have a restaurant on site that serves delicious Japanese cuisine.
Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff
Ultimate relaxation awaits at Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff, where you can end the day soaking in a hot tub. You’re sure to pack on a few pounds thanks to the breakfast they serve daily and the free hot snacks and beverages in the evening.
Castle Rock
If all you’re looking for is a place to rest your head before continuing your adventures, it doesn’t get much better than this Castle Rock. You get simple accommodation with free parking and Wi-Fi, for an excellent price.
University Heights: Where to Stay in Flagstaff on a Budget
A good travelling experience doesn’t have to be expensive, and University Heights is proof of that. This tree-laden area is where budget accommodations welcome you warmly, leaving your wallet fat enough for the city’s other (often expensive) activities.
Found on the southwestern side of Flagstaff, this incredible area is teeming with students thanks to its convenient location at the University of Arizona. It owes its low cost of living to its location, further out from downtown than anywhere else.
Sure, you’ll be far from the action, but who cares when you’re saving bucks while still in one of the best places to stay in Flagstaff, Arizona?
University Heights Highlights
Arboretum
Nature lovers, welcome to paradise! The Arboretum is a seasonal attraction, only open between May and October, but it showcases the best blooms in several gardens.
Fort Tuthill Military Museum
Open from May to the end of the summer on weekends only, you can learn about Arizona’s military history at Fort Tuthill Military Museum. I’ll be totally honest, it’s not my favourite place to visit, but it’s fascinating if you’re into that kind of thing.
Flagstaff Extreme
Flagstaff Extreme is a real laugh. If you’re competitive and are travelling here with friends, you can take on treetop-suspended obstacle courses for some fun.
Suggested Flagstaff Hotels in University Heights
GreenTree Inn Flagstaff
GreenTree Inn Flagstaff offers tremendous bang for your buck. Where else could you wake up with a delicious hot breakfast before dipping into a pool, with plenty of cash leftover for dinner?
Courtyard by Marriot Flagstaff
Courtyard by Marriott Flagstaff is a luxe 3-star hotel. You’ll have spacious rooms with private balconies and an indoor heated pool at your disposal. But the best thing about the property is undoubtedly the outdoor fireplace, complete with glass views, so you can enjoy views of the San Francisco Peaks.
Eastside: Where to Stay in Flagstaff for a Tranquil Stay
Eastside sits east of Flagstaff (which is obvious through its name) and is usually recommended for families. However, I find it’s a great place for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the lively city centre – the sleepy town is so quiet, ideal if you like turning in early.
Instead of towering buildings and a plethora of eateries and fun-filled venues are parks — lots of parks. But, rest assured, it can hold its own against the other areas; Eastside surroundings are the perfect place for tackling hikes of various difficulties.
Eastside Flagstaff Highlights
Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve
First up, the Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve is a perfect escape into nature, complete with hiking trails, wildlife, and historic rock paintings. You could easily spend an entire day here getting lost in its beauty.
Flagstaff Aquaplex
Who says you can’t have roaring fun in a quiet neighbourhood? Certainly not me. Spend time at Flagstaff Aquaplex wall climbing, taking a dip in the pool or challenging friends in a game of air hockey.
Elden Pueblo Archaeological Site
If you love history (and even if you don’t, to be honest), stop at the Elden Pueblo Archaeological Site to learn about the area’s Native American past. It’s super important.
Suggested Flagstaff Hotels in Eastside
Little America Hotel
My top choice for Flagstaff accomodation will forever be the Little America Hotel. With a free airport shuttle, an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant and bar, how could I not?
Rooms are swish, with extra-large double beds and plenty of extra amenities you didn’t know you needed – like an alarm clock and coffee maker.
Ramada by Wyndham Flagstaff East
Ramada by Wyndham Flagstaff East is a chic hotel providing air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV and a coffee maker for an early cup of joe. There’s also a fitness centre on-site, as well as a heated outdoor pool.
Cheshire: Where to Stay in Flagstaff for Nature Lovers
Looking to escape the vibrant downtown area? Book a stay in Cheshire, a quaint neighbourhood that’s perfect for nature lovers. It’s surrounded by verdant scenery and several hiking trails, meaning you’ll have the outdoors right at your doorstep.
You’ll also be 20 minutes closer to the Grand Canyon than if you chose Downtown. Plus, during the winter, you’ll be much closer to Flagstaff’s top skiing destinations, including the Snowbowl Ski Resort.
Cheshire Highlights
Museum of Northern Arizona
Hitting up the Museum of Northern Arizona is non-negotiable in my eyes. Grab the opportunity to learn about the geographical, geological and Native American history of Flagstaff and the Colorado Plateau. It’s fascinating and not-at-all a snoozefest, I promise.
Pioneer Museum
Still not had enough? Dive into more history at the Pioneer Museum, which focuses on Flagstaff’s early homesteaders and farmers.
Fort Valley Trailhead
If you’re an avid hiker, you can find some of Arizona’s best hikes near the Fort Valley Trailhead. And, while you saunter through the beautiful pine forest, you’ll also have incredible mountain views.
Suggested Flagstaff Hotels in Cheshire
Unfortunately, Cheshire is a residential area, so it doesn’t have many places to stay. That said, there are a couple of stellar spots nearby.
303 BnB Inn Flagstaff
303 BnB Inn Flagstaff is a simple bed and breakfast and the closest rental property to Cheshire. Start your day with an a la carte or vegetarian menu, with billiards available for fun.
Bespoke Inn Flagstaff
Fancy somewhere a little bit more stylish? Book a stay at the Bespoke Inn Flagstaff.
This property is a perfect blend of modern and historic, with fancy amenities to complement its old-style exterior. You’ll have a comfortable bed and a cosy fireplace in your room.
Where to Stay in Flagstaff: Frequently Asked Questions
Top tip: you can rent a car here before your trip.
Practical Tips to Consider Before Booking Your Flagstaff Accommodation
- If you’re travelling to Flagstaff on a budget, book your desired hotel well ahead of time. Not only will this save you a few bucks, but it’ll also ensure you reserve your spot before the cheaper hotels reach capacity.
- Nearly 7,000 feet high, Flagstaff is one of the highest-elevation cities in the country. As a result, you’ll need to stay hydrated if you aren’t used to the elevation.
- As always, don’t forget your camera or smartphone at home — how else will you capture the city’s beauty?
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