Flagstaff Neighborhoods, Locations and Districts

(Flagstaff, Arizona - AZ, USA)

The scenic location of Flagstaff is one of the town's biggest draws, with the dramatic San Francisco Peaks forming a stunning backdrop to the area. Flagstaff's central downtown district is where visitors will find most of the town's accommodation and shopping opportunities, while just across the Santa Fe Railroad tracks, which split the downtown district in two, you will find the Northern Arizona University campus.

The outlying areas of Flagstaff also have appeal, with the western reaches hosting the Lowell Observatory and the northern reaches a collection of cultural attractions.

Downtown District

Boasting a cornucopia of restaurants, bars and cafés, downtown Flagstaff is the town's central business district. Overflowing with Western charm that is typical of Northern Arizona's towns, the district is characterized by low-rise, red-brick buildings; the Santa Fe Railroad, which divides downtown; and Santa Fe Avenue, formerly the legendary Route 66. A one-time pioneer trail leading west, downtown is made up of a few central blocks that are easily explored on foot.

West Flagstaff

Just west of Flagstaff's downtown district is the Lowell Observatory, the observatory where astronomer Percival Lowell famously came to the conclusion that there must be another planet beyond Uranus. The pine-covered area has a visitor center where you can indulge in night-time stargazing.

North Flagstaff / Fort Valley

The northern reaches of the town are host to a collection of arts-related buildings. A short drive from downtown Flagstaff along Fort Valley Road will take you to the Coconino Center for the Arts and the Arts Barn. A gallery, bookshop and auditorium rolled into one, this stretch of the highway is well worth a visit, with the Museum of Northern Arizona is located only a stone's throw away.

Northern Arizona University District

If you cross the Santa Fe Railroad from downtown Flagstaff, you will arrive at the campus of Northern Arizona University. This lively area is home to thousands of students who support a colorful array of bars, cafés and shops, while the neighborhood is a popular place to hang out and watch the world go by. Free shuttle services operate during term time to whisk you around the university's diverse collection of art exhibits, while there are also regular performances held at the university theater.