Flagstaff isn’t just a college town—it’s Arizona’s official Winter Wonderland! Thanks to Governor Doug Ducey’s designation, it’s no surprise that this charming city gets an impressive 100 inches of snow each year. With the state’s tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak, towering at 12,633 feet, Flagstaff is a haven for winter fun. If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Flagstaff in winter, try downhill skiing or snowboarding on the 11,500-foot slopes that offer breathtaking views, even of the Grand Canyon!
Beyond skiing, there’s snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even snow tubing to fill your days. For those who prefer a more laid-back vibe, enjoy local events like Arizona Beer Week or the virtual Pluto Festival. Flagstaff in winter is the ultimate destination for snowy thrills and unforgettable experiences.
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Ready to dive into the fun? Here are 9 of the best things to do in Flagstaff in winter!
1. Festive Fun at Flagstaff’s Winter Wonderland
December in Flagstaff means it’s time to dive headfirst into the holiday spirit! Visit Downtown Flagstaff’s Winter Wonderland, where twinkling lights and family-friendly activities bring joy to everyone. This magical setting is one of the must-do things to do in Flagstaff in winter, with seasonal cheer all around.
2. Ring in the New Year with a Pinecone Drop
Celebrate New Year’s Eve the Flagstaff way—with the iconic Great Pinecone Drop at the historic Weatherford Hotel. This quirky tradition is among the top things to do in Flagstaff in winter. Stay after the countdown to discover more winter attractions as the new year begins.
3. Sip and Savor During Arizona Beer Week
Though the dates are still under wraps, Arizona Beer Week is a must when it comes to things to do in Flagstaff in winter. Dive into craft beer heaven with tasting events, beer-pairing dinners, and exclusive brews along the Flagstaff Beer Trail. It’s a brew lover’s dream come true!
4. Geek Out at the I Heart Pluto Festival
Flagstaff is Pluto’s discovery site, and the I Heart Pluto Festival in February is a geek-tastic celebration. This virtual event features educational talks, ghost stories, and family-friendly fun, making it one of the most unique things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
5. Craft Your Adventure with the Brewery Trail
The Flagstaff Brewery Trail offers a craft beer experience like no other, showcasing the finest brews from Arizona’s high country. This self-guided tour takes you through Flagstaff’s top local breweries and beer partners, making it a perfect adventure for beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the city with friends or family, you can embark on this tasting journey at your own pace—whenever and however long you’d like.
The breweries are open year-round, so you can start your trail anytime they are. To get started, simply download a Trail Passport from craftbeerflg.com or pick one up at any participating brewery or the Flagstaff Visitor Center (located at 1 East Route 66). After visiting each brewery and filling out your Passport, you can redeem it for a stylish Arizona Craft Beer City pint glass—an ideal souvenir from your beer-filled adventure!
6. Pub Crawl on Wheels with the Alpine Pedaler
For a more active take on your winter pub crawl, hop on the Alpine Pedaler! This 14-passenger, human-powered ride cruises through snowy streets, stopping at bars with VIP perks. It’s a fun, boozy adventure that stands out as one of the more unique things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
7. Explore Haunted History with AZ Pedal Tours
Looking for history, haunts, and a bit of exercise? AZ Pedal Tours offers bike, foot, or Segway tours of Flagstaff’s spookiest legends and most historic sites. Add this to your list of adventurous things to do in Flagstaff in winter—you’ll explore breweries, restaurants, and local lore!
8. Action-Packed Fun at Flag Tag AZ
Gear up for action at Flag Tag AZ, where you can dive into a multi-level, black-lit laser tag arena, perfect for solo players or teams. Beyond laser tag, you can challenge friends to dodgeball, Nerf tag, or even test your skills at axe throwing. The venue also boasts a wide selection of arcade games to keep the fun going. Planning a group event? Flag Tag AZ is ideal for private parties, too. After working up an appetite, refuel at the snack bar with pizza or a refreshing smoothie, making it a full day of fun for everyone!
9. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at the Chocolate Walk
Indulge your sweet tooth while getting your daily steps in at the Annual Flagstaff Chocolate Walk, a perfect lead-up to the ultimate chocolate holiday, Valentine’s Day! This delightful event, hosted by the Flagstaff Visitor Center, transforms historic downtown Flagstaff into a chocolate lover’s paradise.
As you explore various businesses, you’ll savor the silky richness of dark and light chocolates, including truffles and nougat, in a one-day tasting adventure that blends repeated decadence with unlimited smiles. Since registration is required and spots often fill up quickly, make sure to secure your place for this unique and flavorful experience—one of the sweetest things to do in Flagstaff in winter!
Bonus Adventure: Hit up Snowbowl
What’s a winter trip without some skiing? Arizona Snowbowl is just 20 minutes from Flagstaff and offers a top elevation of 11,500 feet with 55 trails. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, this is a winter sports paradise. After a long day on the slopes, warm up with a hot meal at Basecamp Restaurant. For the best things to do in Flagstaff in winter, hitting the Snowbowl is non-negotiable!
Outdoor Fun in Flagstaff
If you prefer cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, the Arizona Nordic Village offers 24 miles of trails just 20 minutes from town. You can even stay the night in one of their cozy yurts or cabins. Or, explore the volcanic landscape of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument—Flagstaff’s unique geological wonder.
Eat, Drink, and Sleep in Flagstaff: The Best Spots to Visit
Before hitting the slopes or exploring Flagstaff’s scenic winter wonderland, start your day with a steaming cup of coffee from Matador Coffee Roasting Co. This father-and-son team brought their coffee expertise from Seattle to the Southwest, giving NAU students and locals alike a much-needed caffeine fix.
Best part? Buy a drip coffee, and you’ve got free refills all day! If you’re craving a hearty meal, make your way to local favorite Bun Huggers. Since 1979, this Flagstaff institution has been flipping charbroiled burgers and serving up crispy fried mushrooms, onion rings, and, of course, chili cheese-drenched fries, all amongst charmingly worn wood tables and nostalgic decor. With delicious food and drinks, this spot is certainly one of the best things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
A visit to Flagstaff isn’t complete without a stop at Lumberyard Brewing Co. Housed in one of the last remaining lumber buildings from Flagstaff’s history, this brewery has been serving award-winning, town-themed brews since 2010. Just down the street, Dark Sky Brewing awaits with over 750 unique beer recipes created over the years. Their Taproom and Beer Garden offer 40 different beers on tap, so you can sip a local IPA or lager while soaking in Flagstaff’s winter charm. Sampling craft brews is one of the top things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
If you’re in the mood for authentic Italian pizza, swing by Fat Olives. Chef John Conley has been firing up his award-winning, VPN-certified Vera Pizza Napoletana pies for over 25 years, using fresh ingredients imported straight from Italy. For a more American twist on wood-fired goodness, Bigfoot BBQ in the Old Town Shops is the go-to spot. This basement barbecue joint smokes all their meats in-house, filling the air with the irresistible aroma of hickory. Enjoying these culinary delights is undeniably one of the scrumptious things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
When evening rolls in, make a reservation at Atria, where James Beard Semifinalist chef Rochelle Daniel serves up a seasonally inspired menu using the finest local ingredients. Whether you indulge in the eight-course tasting menu or warm up with their hearty homemade pastas, Atria’s welcoming atmosphere will have you coming back for more. Dining here is an essential part of experiencing the best things to do in Flagstaff in winter.
Where to Stay in Flagstaff
Flagstaff, part of the historic Route 66, offers accommodations brimming with nostalgia. Choosing the right lodging is one of the important things to do in Flagstaff in winter. High Country Motor Lodge takes the roadside motel experience to the next level with 123 modern, rustic rooms. Guests can enjoy discounted ski passes through their Snowbowl partnership and relax in the Nordic Spa with a hot tub, sauna, and cold plunge after a day on the slopes.
For a retro twist, check out Americana Motor Hotel, a newly renovated motor lodge that embraces retro-futuristic design. With artful rooms, a heated pool, and a dog-friendly “Barkyard,” it’s the perfect place for a unique stay along Route 66.
If lodge-style luxury is your thing, Little America Hotel offers a cozy yet refined retreat. For a dose of history (and perhaps a ghostly encounter), book a stay at the historic Hotel Monte Vista. Well, staying in this unique accommodation is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Flagstaff in winter. Set to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026, this haunted hotel has been an anchor in Flagstaff’s Historic Downtown for nearly a century and offers a unique blend of bed & breakfast charm and paranormal intrigue.
