When planning a trip the kids will enjoy, most people probably think of the big theme parks out there, but there’s no need for all that. Save yourself the hassle and try a trip out to Flagstaff where you’re sure to find something for everyone regardless of their age.
Home to great winter sports, stunning scenery, parks, ropes courses, and so much more, Flagstaff has it all. Whether you’re hoping to get the kids excited about science and history, thrilling rides, or basically anything else, Flagstaff has it. There’s something for each age range and plenty for the adults too, so everyone is in for a good time.
Each family has specific needs on their trip though, so making sure you pick the right stops can be a challenge. Below is a list of some of what we think is the best Flagstaff has to offer for various age ranges. You’re sure to find something that works for every member of the family.
1. Historic Hitchin’ Post Stables
Map It: 4848 Lake Mary Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86005 | Phone: 928-774-1719 | Website: | Hours: Tue – Sun: 8am to 4pm | Entrance: Varies by tour | Age Group: 5+
Horse lovers and kids of all ages are sure to have a good time at this historic stable. Here guests can choose from a variety of different rides suited to their level and learn from the experts. View the stunning scenery in Walnut Canyon and Flagstaff area.
The wranglers working at the Historic Hitchin’ Post Stables are experts and great with kids. They are willing to answer all your kids’ questions and get them excited about riding through nature.
Guests can pick from a variety of trails suited for whatever skill level they need, as the area is filled with them. There are even wagon rides for those that don’t feel comfortable getting up on the horse.
2. Lowell Observatory
Map It: 1400 West Mars Hill Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-774-3358 | Website: | Hours: Wed – Mon: 10am to 10pm, Tue: 10am to 5pm | Entrance: Ages 5 – 17: $16, Ages 18+: $25 | Age Group: 5+
The Lowell Observatory offers a unique learning opportunity covering a range of space related topics. Guests will learn about space and the machinery that has allowed us to study the cosmos, talk to professionals, and enjoy interactive elements.
Visiting the observatory will give guests the opportunity to view through old and new telescopes, adding a layer of history to the visit. There are several telescopes to look at and through, offering unique views of the stars. There are even private ones that can be rented out.
Guests can even visit the telescope that was used to discover Pluto. Besides telescopes, guests can also enjoy a wide range of exhibits and activities. It’s educational and entertaining for the whole family
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3. Flagstaff E-Bike Tours
Map It: 14 E Birch Ave Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 602-980-3798 | Website: | Hours: By Reservation | Entrance: Varies by Tour | Age Group: 13+
Families with older kids are sure to have loads of fun on one of the great bike tours offered by this touring company. Choose to watch the sunset over the mountains, ride down historic Route 66, or pick one of the other tours.
One of the Route 66 tours will have you e-biking at 7000 feet to eventually reach downtown Flagstaff. Here guests will get a tour of downtown on foot by a local expert.
Another tour has you travel through a college campus and will have you swinging by a great coffee shop. There’s something for everyone, just ask and find the one that suits you and your family.
4. Lava River Cave
Map It: 171B Forest Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-526-0866 | Website: | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free | Age Group: 13+
Walk through a truly stunning cave formed by a lava river flow. Older kids and adults alike will get to learn the fascinating history of volcanic activity in the area and be active while doing so.
The lava caves offer an unforgettable trip for those adventurous enough to go out to it. Those visiting will need to ensure they bring 3 sources of light when traveling the caves, for safety. If you follow guidelines, the cave is a fun and stunning trip for everyone involved.
Explore the three quarters of a mile long stretch and see the scars left by the lava 700,000 years ago. The cave is able to be visited any time of the year, but there may be an additional ski trip to get to it during the winter.
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5. Flagstaff Aquaplex
Map It: 1702 N Fourth St Flagstaff, AZ 86004 | Phone: 928-213-2300 | Website: | Hours: Mon – Sat: 6am to 8pm | Entrance: Ages 6 – 11: $3.75, Ages 12 – 17: $5, Ages 18+: $6.50 | Age Group: All ages
Get the kids active and moving at this fun recreation center. Work out at the gym, go swimming, play air hockey, rock climb, and so much more. This is a great stop for those looking to enjoy some games and activities while bonding.
The Aquaplex has something for everyone from walking lanes around the interior of the building, to swimming lessons, and beyond. Guests can participate in one of the many lessons or have fun on their own. Play a friendly game of basketball, pickleball, or do some leisurely swimming.
6. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course
Map It: Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop Flagstaff, AZ 86005 | Phone: 888-259-0125 | Website: | Hours: 9am to 5pm | Entrance: Varies by course | Age Group: 7+
Kids and parents are in for a thrilling adventure at the Flagstaff Adventure Course. Zipline high up in the trees, cross rope bridges, tackle challenging obstacles, and more. This is a great stop for the climbing enthusiast or thrill seeker in your life.
There are several courses to pick from to match each guest’s skill level and comfort. Older kids can tackle the adventure course for hours of treetop fun. Younger kids can try out the Kid’s Course. Here they can safely enjoy ziplines, obstacles, ladders, and more.
Of course many of the courses are also suited for adults, so there’s no need to miss out on the fun. Form thrilling memories with your kids high off the ground as you challenge yourselves to some fun obstacles and adventures.
7. Mcpherson Park Disk Golf Course
Map It: Mcpherson Park Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: N/A | Website: | Hours: 9am to 6pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: 7+
A long time dream of its creator, this disk golf course has charm and care poured into every inch. Spread across 13 acres and 18 holes, the disk golf course will offer hours of friendly competition and fun.
The course is located on the historic Beale Wagon Trail, offering a bit of history to your game. Each hole on the course offers a unique challenge and gorgeous scenery all around. With various elevations and obstacles, this is a fun course for every skill level.
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8. Walnut Canyon National Monument
Map It: 3 Walnut Canyon Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86004 | Phone: 928-526-3367 | Website: | Hours: 9am to 4:30pm | Entrance: Varies by pass type, $25+ | Age Group: All Ages
Home to ancient cliff dwellings, incredible rock structures, trails, and so much more, Walnut Canyon has something for everyone. Learn about the history of the area, get active, and enjoy stunning views of this incredible national monument.
Walnut Canyon is packed with activities to participate in, each offering so much that they could stand alone as a number on this list. Enjoy all the expected outdoor fun, like biking, hiking, horseback riding, and much more.
Eat a picnic as a family, let the kids go through the course to become a junior ranger, and learn about preservation and nature.
9. Thorpe Park Sports & Recreation Complex
Map It: 191 N Thorpe Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-773-3848 | Website: | Hours: Sun – Thur: 5am to 10pm, Fri – Sat: 5am to 12am | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All ages
Those looking for a great classic park to visit on their trip to Flagstaff will find exactly what they’re looking for here. Playgrounds, trails, fields for sports, and even a disc golf course can all be found at Thorpe Park.
Guests to the park will find something for every age range. Take leisurely walks on the paved trails, enjoy a meal at the picnic ramada, or engage in some friendly competition on the tennis or racquetball courts. This is an easy and low-key destination that will offer hours of fun.
Related Read: The Best Time to Visit Arizona
10. Museum of Northern Arizona
Map It: 3101 N Fort Valley Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-774-5213 | Website: | Hours: Wed – Mon: 10am to 5pm | Entrance: Ages under 9: Free, Ages 10 – 17: $10, Ages 18+: $15 | Age Group: 5+
Teach the kids and explore the past through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive activities for all ages. Learn about various subjects from experts, explore the museum, and leave with a trinket to remember the trip.
The exhibits at the museum cycle regularly, but you can always expect a great time learning regardless of what is currently being displayed. Guests can learn about geology, see fossils, examine early clay artifacts, and so much more.
Kids are sure to be awed by the unique collection offered and vast history of our planet. Watch as they marvel at the 240 million year old marks on stone that may spark a lifelong passion of archaeology and science.
11. Arboretum at Flagstaff
Map It: 4001 South Woody Mountain Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86005 | Phone: 928-774-1442 | Website: | Hours: Wed – Sun: 9am to 4pm | Entrance: Ages 5 – 17: $6, Ages 18+: $12 | Age Group: All Ages
Since its establishment in 1981, the Arboretum at Flagstaff has offered the masses hours of fun for all ages. Explore high elevation gardens, stunning prairies, and natural wildlife. Teach kids about science, conservation, and participate in a load of activities.
Guided bird walks are a serene trip for bird lovers to see the creatures in their natural habitat. Art classes will have you using the inspiration formed in the beauty of the prairies to create a unique art piece you can take home.
There are gardening classes, special birds of prey shows, blacksmith special events, special kids programs, and so much more. Any age range is sure to have fun with everything the arboretum has to offer.
12. Bushmaster Park
Map It: 3150 N Alta Vista Dr Flagstaff, AZ 86004 | Phone: 928-779-7960 | Website: | Hours: 6am to 9pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All Ages
Bushmaster Park is the perfect stop for those seeking a classic park experience with some added flair. Kids can enjoy multiple playgrounds, games, and sports courts for hours of active fun. Enjoy some friendly competition and maybe hear some live music.
Those with sports minded kids will love the multitude of courts at the park. There are options for basketball, tennis, volleyball, and more. There’s also a skatepark, horseshoe pits, and fitness area for added fun. The park even has a fenced bark park for your furry companion.
13. Frances Short Pond
Map It: 191 N Thorpe Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-773-3848 | Website: | Hours: 6am to 7pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All Ages
Enjoy some leisurely fishing or attend a free clinic to teach the kids about the outdoors. Kids will love seeing the diverse array of reptiles, mammals, birds, and other wildlife in and around the pond.
The park also has trails for the whole family to enjoy. Here visitors can see an abundance of local plant life and wildlife in their natural habitat. The pond is also only a short walk from Thorpe Park where there are ball fields, dog parks, and more.
14. Flag Tag AZ
Map It: 1801 W Rte 66 #102 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-707-9824 | Website: | Hours: Mon – Thur: 12pm to 9pm, Fri: 12pm to 11pm, Sat: 10am to 10pm, Sun: 12pm to 8pm | Entrance: Varies by game | Age Group: 5+
Flag Tag AZ is a sure fire way to make sure everyone traveling with you has a blast. Choose from a variety of fun activities from laser tag to ax throwing, and beyond. Share a pizza, play arcade games, and so much more at this thrilling center of entertainment.
In ax throwing, guests will have a chance to try their hand at hitting targets and getting lessons from experts. In the arcade guests can play air hockey, race on virtual motorcycles, and much more. Flag tag is sure to keep all the kids entertained for hours.
15. AZ Segway and Pedal Tours
Map It: 600 N Thorpe Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-699-1207 | Website: | Hours: 8am to 6pm | Entrance: $30+ | Age Group: 8+
Older kids and parents alike can enjoy breezing through Flagstaff as they learn about the area from experts. Go by foot, segway, bike, or longboard through downtown. Enjoy hearing ghost stories, learning about great restaurants, and much more.
Guests with AZ Segway and Pedal tours will have the option of several different tour types. The historic downtown tour is a fun and educational tour through the downtown area. Guests will learn about Route 66, old railroads, and loads of other interesting history.
For the ghost lover, the Haunted Adventure tour will have guests exploring the most haunted areas of Flagstaff. Learn about historical sights and hear about events and stories of the spectral kind. There are other tours as well, and whichever you pick is sure to be fun for all.
16. The Oakmont
Map It: 2380 N Oakmont Dr Flagstaff, AZ 86004 | Phone: 928-526-7990 | Website: | Hours: Mon – Thur: 10am to 10pm, Fri: 10am to 11pm, Sat: 9am to 11pm, Sun: 9am to 10pm | Entrance: Varies by meal | Age Group: All ages
The Oakmont is a great stop for the whole family to enjoy a meal together and have a little fun while at it. The restaurant is a family friendly, local shop that offers a wide array of meals and drinks. They regularly host events, and have a field for kids to play in.
The restaurant sits inside Flagstaff’s historic Continental Country Club, so guests will be close to several other amenities like golf.
The large patio and field just outside the restaurant offer a great place for kids to run and play while waiting for food. The restaurant also serves adult beverages, making the restaurant a great place to unwind before continuing your adventures.
17. Buffalo Park
Map It: 2400 N Gemini Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86004 | Phone: 928-213-2300 | Website: | Hours: Sun – Thur: 5am to 10pm, Fri – Sat: 5am to 12am | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All Ages
Buffalo Park is a great option for a scenic and leisurely stroll through nature. The park has a 2.2 mile loop that is well maintained and flat, making it accessible to wheelchairs, bikes, and more.
The park is also dog friendly and can be visited anytime of the year. Winter offers an opportunity for cross country skiing. The ease of the trail makes it perfect for all ages and offers a great opportunity to get out into nature together as a family.
18. Arizona Snowbowl
Map It: 9300 N Snow Bowl Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-779-1951 | Website: | Hours: Fri – Sun: 10am to 4pm | Entrance: Varies by activity and pass | Age Group: All ages
Enjoy the view of Arizona from 11,500 feet up, go skiing, ride gondolas, and more at the Arizona Snowbowl. The Snowbowl is a great spot to visit any time of the year with plenty of both summer and winter activities to pick from. Kids and adults are in for a treat.
During the summer guests will be treated to several options for fun activities. They can rock climb, speed down a hill in a tube, or bounce on a bungee trampoline just to name a few. There’s also barrel rolling, treasure panning, and more.
In the summer the mountain transforms into a world class ski resort. Guests will have options of various paths to fit their skill level and will have hours of fun on the powder. Plus, regardless of the time of year, guests can take a scenic gondola ride for incredible views.
19. Bearizona Wildlife Park
Map It: 1500 E Rte 66 Williams, AZ 86046 | Phone: 928-635-2289 | Website: | Hours: 9am to 4pm | Entrance: Ages 4 -12 Weekday: $20, Ages 4 – 12 Weekend: $25, Ages 13+ Weekday: $30, Ages 13+ Weekend: $35 | Age Group: All Ages
Get the kids up and personal with some of Arizona’s coolest and most elusive wildlife. Go on a drive through tour to safely see bears in their natural habitat, walk through park exhibits, or learn from experts. This is a fun, interactive, and educational stop for all.
Special animal encounters set up by professionals will have kids up close with reptiles, birds, and more. The walk thru tour gives guests a chance to safely view jaguars, grizzly bears, and more.
20. Sunset Crater
Map It: North of Flagstaff on US 89 | Phone: 928-526-0502 | Website: | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Varies by pass | Age Group: All ages
Visit the place of Arizona’s most recent volcanic eruption where trees and flowers grow in the torn earth. Teach the kids about geology and volcanoes and the history of the people in the region.
Sunset crater is truly a sight to behold and offers a great learning opportunity for everyone. The park is also a great place to go hiking and look at the local wildlife.
21. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Map It: 409 W Riordan Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-779-4395 | Website: | Hours: 9.30am to 5pm | Entrance: Ages 7 – 13: $2 – $5, Ages 14+: $2 – $10 | Age Group: All Ages
Travel back in time with the kids to a time of small logging towns. Marvel at the impressive construction of volcanic stone arches and hand craftsmanship. Learn about the history of the mansion, engage in interactive fun, and more.
A great activity for the kids is the junior ranger course, where they can participate in a range of educational activities and earn a badge. There are also plenty of programs, exhibits, and more for everyone to enjoy.
22. Flagstaff Snow Park
Map It: 2446 Ft Tuthill Lp Flagstaff, AZ 86005 | Phone: 928-224-5938 | Website: | Hours: 9am to 9pm | Entrance: Ages 3 – 12: $9+, Ages 13+: $13+ | Age Group: All Ages
Enjoy the view from 7,000 feet up where you can engage in a multitude of fun activities for all ages. This is a winter escape that will provide hours of fun for the whole family.
The snow park is not open year round, but when it is open, guests will enjoy a variety of fun snow activities. There is tubing for all ages and nice picnic tables to enjoy a meal once you’re done having fun in the snow.
23. BigFoot Bbq
Map It: 120 N Leroux St Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-226-1677 | Website: | Hours: Wed – Sat: 11:30am to 9pm, Sun – Tue: 11:30am to 8pm | Entrance: Varies by dish | Age Group: All ages
BigFoot Barbecue is a fun local dining option that has something for everyone and is well suited for kids. Two dining rooms, a large menu, and a kids area will keep everyone happy and having fun.
Bigfoot Barbecue has over twenty years of experience preparing food, and have created some outstanding dishes in that time. This will have everyone fed well and enjoying their visit.
24. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
Map It: Interstate 40, Exit 233, Winslow, AZ 86047 | Phone: 928-289-5898 | Website: | Hours: 8am to 5pm | Entrance: Ages 6 – 13: $14, Ages 14+: $23 | Age Group: 5+
Adventurers and space lovers are in for a treat at this exceptional space museum. Kids will marvel at the massive crater left by a meteor, learn about space and science, and enjoy interactive elements.
Guests to the natural landmark can enjoy guided tours around the rim of the crater, enjoy 4d theaters, and learn about space. There are several exhibits and relics of the past. One such relic is the Apollo 11 training capsule, perfect for hands-on learning about the moon landing.
There’s also a gift shop to take home a trinket to commemorate the trip. For those that want even more time to explore the museum and crater, there is even an RV park where you can stay the night.
25. Wupatki National Monument
Map It: 25137 North Wupatki Lane Flagstaff, AZ 86004 | Phone: 928-679-2365 | Website: | Hours: 9am to 4:30pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All Ages
Teach the kids about the Pueblo communities of the past and the heritage of Native Americans in the area. View the unique landscapes and structures, and enjoy a hike while you’re at it.
The Lomaki and Box Canyon Pueblos were occupied over 900 years ago, and offer a great teaching opportunity for the kids. Guests can also visit the visitor center to see exhibits and participate in the junior ranger course.
The monument and park of course also have plenty of trails to explore, including ones guided by a park ranger. The adventurous can even take an overnight guided hike.
26. Sweet Shoppe Candy Store
Map It: 15 E Aspen Ave Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: 928-213-9000 | Website: | Hours: Sun – Thur: 10am to 9pm, Fri – Sat: 10am to 10pm | Entrance: Varies by treat | Age Group: All Ages
This sweet shop is a must stop for those traveling with kids. Here everyone can have their pick of incredible fresh made candies and sweets. Caramel apples, fresh fudge, toffee, and so much more await you all.
Besides a wealth of candy and sweets, the shop also has incredible Italian gelato and French macarons. There are also special treats for your furry companions, making this a perfect spot for the whole family. If you can’t get enough, the shop also ships out most items.
27. Flagstaff Climbing
Map It: 205 S San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: (928) 556-9909 | Website: | Hours: Mon – Fri: 10am to 10pm, Sat – Sun: 12pm to 8pm | Entrance: $22+ | Age Group: 5+
Established 25 years ago, Flagstaff Climbing has a longstanding history of being an excellent rock climbing facility. Support a locally owned gym and get the whole family active and having fun.
The climbing gym offers lessons and has every kind of rock climbing you could want and other activities as well. Guests can try their hand at bouldering, attend a yoga class, and more.
28. Coconino National Forest
Map It: Lake Mary Rd Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: (928) 527-3600 | Website: | Hours: Open 24 hours | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All AgesCoconino offers guests a wealth of unique vistas. From red rocks to pine forests, to the alpine tundra, and beyond, this national forest offers a stunning view around every corner.
The national forest is open to explore and offers a variety of different leveled trails for the whole family to enjoy. Just make sure to plan ahead and use a map.
29. Safari Jeep Tours
Map It: 335 Jordan Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336 | Phone: (928) 282-3012 | Website: | Hours: 8am to 5pm | Entrance: Varies by tour | Age Group: 5+
Enjoy an exhilarating and scenic tour with the whole family through a variety of Arizona vistas. Go off roading, up a mountain, and more. The choice is yours to make.
The touring company offers a variety of tour options suited for each guest. The Outback trail is a smoother off-road ride through the Red Rocks, while the Rim Run takes you deeper into the backcountry.
30. Bright Side Book Shop
Map It: 18 N San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | Phone: (928) 440-5041 | Website: | Hours: Mon – Sat: 9am to 8pm, Sun: 10am to 6pm | Entrance: N/A | Age Group: All ages
Support a local bookstore and get your kids excited about reading. There’s a large selection of books in the kids, middle grade, and young adult section, so everyone is sure to find something.
Explore the quaint interior of this small bookshop that manages to fit in something for everyone. Pick from a selection of best sellers and longstanding classics. Their extensive selection is sure to have everyone excited about reading.
