"Flagstaff - History Lives" Top 5 Page for this destination Flagstaff by Yaqui

Flagstaff Travel Guide: 442 reviews and 635 photos

Pioneers live on, as well as Route 66

I don’t remember much of Flagstaff other then passing her by during my younger years. So, when we had the opportunity to stop on the way back from Sedona, we did it. I did not know how Flagstaff had gotten its name, but this marker by the commerce center on Route 66 says it all. The marker reads” Named for a pine tree stripped of its branches by a party of immigrants and used as a flagpole for a patriotic celebration on July 4, 1875. Nearby Antelope or Old Town Spring provided water and lead to the establishment a railroad construction camp when the Atlantic & Pacific pushed west in 1882.” Arizona Development Board, 1961. It was said this “flag staff” was left as a marker for those who followed the west and eventually because of all the wonderful resources of water, grass, and wood, sheep ranches moved in. Then as the railroad was pushing forward, the wood was a wonderful resource for the railroad ties. As the rail crews logged wood and graded, the little camp named Flagstaff grew immediately. Although, many followed the construction of the railroad westward, many stayed here to make a new life.

Arizona's Historical Marker

I had not research on where to explore, so we winged it. When saw signs for Riordan Mansion State Historic Park we followed them and enjoyed our tour there. So I said lets just head this way since it stated on some signs being Route 66. So, to our delight we came upon a delightful beautiful historical town of Flagstaff. I loved it!!! So much more to see in the downtown area and we are making plans to revisit it again. We just loved the old buildings and my sons enjoyed the relaxing lunch at Charly’s.

Lots to see and do here because of the wonderful proximity, especially if you love the outdoors. Just dress accordingly because of the higher elevation. It does get hot here, so bring lots of water and during winter it does snow. Make sure you check on driving conditions too. Be always safe!

Pros and Cons

Pros:Beautiful historical town still lives along Route 66
Cons:Traffic is a drag, but it can be bad in most cities anymore
In a nutshell:If you love being part of history, this is a wonderful place to experience it!

Last visit to Flagstaff: Nov 2007
Intro Updated Apr 14, 2008
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Reviews (18)

Flagstaff Souvenirs Shopping (1)

This visitor center is very unique since it is located in the historic train station, it also has some unique Route 66... more travel advice

Homeless or Publically intoxicated - Flagstaff

Homeless or Publically intoxicated Warnings Or Dangers (2)

I hesitated to mention this before, but thought it might be a good idea. As with many cities, each one is touched with... more travel advice

Church of the Nativity Off The Beaten Path (9)

When wondering around, this beautiful grey stone Catholic Church caught my eye. I could tell immediately that it was... more travel advice

Orpheum Theatre Off The Beaten Path (9)

I am never so happy to see old theatres being revitalized and maintained. There are almost like a time capsule when you... more travel advice

Restaurants (1)
Great Food!!
Hotels (2)
See All Beautiful Time capsule

Comments (23)

Mikebb Sep 13, 2011 at 2:41 PM Report Abuse

A nice page Dee. The railway played a huge role in the development of the West. Nice to see they preserve the memory.
LoriPori Mar 30, 2011 at 3:30 AM Report Abuse

Very thorough page on Flagstaff. we always stay here when visiting the Grand Canyon as they usually have economical motels.
nicolaitan Sep 8, 2010 at 11:10 AM Report Abuse

nice interesting page as usual. fascinating history of the name of the town. love the noah ark mural. hard to believe route 66 is still with us. we were in sedona and phoenix, sorry we didn't get here.
hunterV Aug 16, 2010 at 12:33 PM Report Abuse

Very detailed and interesting! Thanks a lot for your narration and pictures, Dee! ><><><
hopang Apr 21, 2010 at 12:23 PM Report Abuse

Wonderful Flagstaff travel page. Flagstaff certainly looks interesting to visit and explore especially the Heritage Square, Downtown Murals, Nativity Church and of course the historic mansion. Thanks for sharing. ~ho & pang
deecat Mar 10, 2010 at 9:34 AM Report Abuse

A pleasure to reread, Dee. Keen eye for what's historic! You and I would be good travel companions because we love the same things...history, architecture, old historic downtowns, murals, historic plaques, etc.
csordila Mar 10, 2010 at 1:59 AM Report Abuse

Interesting heritage! I have never known why Flagstaff is called City of Seven Wonders. By the way, what metaphor has been put by Mr. Spock? Thank you for your London visit! Laszlo
evaanna Nov 27, 2009 at 11:42 AM Report Abuse

There seems to be something interesting for everybody there. While I would definitely enjoy the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park and the lovely houses, my husband would love the steam engine and the logging wheels. Another interesting page of yours!
Trekki Aug 30, 2009 at 12:14 PM Report Abuse

Thanks for your introduction to Flagstaff, Dee :-) I passed it so many times when I was in Arizona, what a shame I didn't visit. Love the steam engine :-))
lynnehamman Aug 26, 2009 at 7:39 AM Report Abuse

Lovely introduction to Flagstaff. I love that old steam engine. Good that restoration is happening here. Your boys sure have good appetites!