An Arizona city was named among the most underrated US travel destinations
Flagstaff was named among the most underrated vacation destinations in the country, according to a new ranking by U.S. News & World Report.
The list highlights 26 U.S. places that don't often make it onto popular travel bucket lists but are just as worthy of recognition. These destinations may fly under the radar nationally, but they offer unique attractions, charm and experiences that rival better-known getaways.
Here is a look at why Flagstaff made the cut and a guide to things to do while you are there.
This northern Arizona city is often overshadowed by another popular town: Sedona, which is an internationally recognized tourism destination known for its stunning red rock scenery, natural beauty and outdoor activities.
However, U.S. News and World Report's ranking suggests Flagstaff is just as worthy of attention, with its own natural attractions and cultural scenery.
Flagstaff is a charming mountain town of about 77,000 residents located about two hours and 15 minutes away from Phoenix, and about an hour and a half from the Grand Canyon.
Surrounded by the world's largest ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff boasts a storybook scenery, with a rustic, outdoorsy charm. It also enjoys a much different climate than most of Arizona due to its location in the mountains, with pleasant temperatures in the summer and snowy winters that cover town buildings and treetops with white blankets of snow, making for a postcard-perfect scenery.
Flagstaff also has a handful of unique natural attractions, outdoor excursions and local eats. Here is a list of things you can do when you visit the city.
Flagstaff and its surrounding area offer an abundance of activities to make your trip to the high country a memorable one. Here are some of the most popular things to do, including some budget-friendly options.
: Scientists at this observatory famously discovered Pluto and revealed the expanding universe. Now, the observatory has a newly opened astronomy center that promises to enhance the visitor experience and foster a deeper connection to the cosmos.
: The museum includes gardens, trails, a library, numerous historic buildings and a variety of exhibits. It was recently reaccredited by the American Alliance of Museums, a distinction shared by just 3% of museums across the country. You can visit the museum daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the exception of New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas.
: Snowbowl is a popular skiing destination in the winter, offering activities for visitors in the summer, including a scenic gondola ride where, on especially clear days, riders can see all the way to the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
Walk the original alignment of Route 66: Learn about the city's and the route's history on the free, self-guided 'Walk This Talk' audio tour that traces the original alignment of Route 66. The tour begins at the north side entrance of the Flagstaff Visitor Center, where travelers can also find plenty of free information and goodies, including postcards, stickers and a doggie bowl.
Public art tour: Flagstaff has a robust public art program with more than 40 visuals, including murals, steel installations and more. Download the Flagstaff Public Art Map for information on each piece and where to find it. Then, set off on foot or bike and check out the artwork — some of which is inspired by the local culture and natural surroundings.
Hiking trails: Fans of hiking will find lots of options in the Flagstaff Urban Trails System, which includes in-town trails ranging from about 0.3 mile to over 5 miles.
Historic downtown walking tour: Many buildings that are important to Flagstaff's history have been restored in the downtown area. If you are looking for a leisurely stroll after enjoying a nice lunch, follow the free, self-guided walking tour and get a history lesson at the same time. Stops include the Visitor Center/Amtrak station, the McMillan building and the Weatherford Hotel.
Explore the NAU campus: The Northern Arizona University campus is a pleasant place to walk; you can stroll along the thoroughfares, stop for a cup of coffee or snack and relax on a bench for a while or check out one of the three NAU Arboretum's tree walks that are each a half-mile or less in length.
Look for wildlife: If you love the idea of watching animals in their natural habitats, Arizona's Watchable Wildlife Experience has a great way to make that happen. For $5 a day, you can rent a backpack that includes maps and guides to wildlife and bird-watching locations, binoculars, a first aid kit and a notebook and pen. Pick up the packs at Peace Surplus.
U.S. News considered user votes and editor input, as well as factors such as crowds and things to do, to highlight the best underrated places to visit in the U.S. If you have a beloved lesser-known spot, cast a vote at the newsmagazine's website to see it on next year's list.
Arizona Republic contributor Alison Stanton contributed to this article.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Flagstaff named underrated US travel destination. Here's why to visit
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