Flagstaff, Arizona, situated in northern Arizona, is known for many things including a wide variety of outdoor activities, the Northern Arizona University campus, Route 66, the meteor crater, Lowell Observatory and much more. But one of the most fun and interesting parts of this town is its downtown area. And many hotels in Flagstaff serve as a great hub for exploring this unique downtown area.
Historical Flagstaff was centered around the railroad, and there's no more appropriate place to start your downtown tour than from Flagstaff hotels. A good first stop is the Visitor Center which is housed in the Tudor-style Santa Fe Railroad station. Here, you'll find maps and information on many of the historic downtown Flagstaff buildings. The Babbitt Brothers Trading Company building, constructed in 1888 in the Renaissance Revival style, is a particularly interesting building. Others you won't want to miss include the Spanish Colonial Hotel Monte Vista and the 1920s Weatherford Hotel.
The Nativity Catholic Church – located at Beaver and Cherry Streets – has been designated a National Historic Landmark Building. The church features stunning stained glass windows and was built in the 1920's as an exact replica of a church in France. Pioneer families including the Dolans and Babbitts were instrumental in the design, funding and building of this stunning Flagstaff landmark and the original grade school (St. Anthony's) across the street.
In addition to many interesting historical buildings and sights, downtown Flagstaff features plenty of unique and independent restaurants, bars and shops that retain the charm and nostalgia of historic Route 66. The Beaver Street Brewery & Whistle Stop Café is a great spot for casual dining and is located just one block south of the historic train station and features a variety of handcrafted ales and lagers.
Historic downtown Flagstaff is pedestrian-friendly and extremely outdoorsy so bikers, hikers and walkers are all equally at home here. Whether you want to browse the unique shops, check out the historic architecture, try a local brewery or venture into other areas of town, Flagstaff hotels are a great hub for exploring all the area has to offer.
Martin Wynn
