Arizona City Is One Of The Most ‘Overlooked’ Destinations In The U.S.

When it comes to travel destinations in the United States, some cities seem to get all the attention. New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New Orleans are among the most popular places for tourists and locals alike. But there are many other cities that offer unique attractions, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, without the crowds and the high prices. One of these hidden gems is Flagstaff, Arizona, a small city that is often overlooked by travelers heading to the Grand Canyon.

Flagstaff: A Gateway to Nature and History

Flagstaff is located in northern Arizona, about 80 miles south of the Grand Canyon. It is surrounded by the Coconino National Forest, one of the largest and most diverse forests in the country. The forest covers more than 1.8 million acres and includes mountains, canyons, lakes, and desert. Flagstaff is also home to the San Francisco Peaks, the highest mountain range in Arizona, which offer stunning views and hiking trails for all levels of difficulty.

Flagstaff is not only a gateway to nature, but also to history. The city was founded in 1882 as a railroad town and has preserved its historic charm and character. The Historic Railroad District is a must-see for visitors, as it features the historic train depot, the Museum of Northern Arizona, and many shops and restaurants. Flagstaff is also a center of Native American culture, as it is close to several reservations and ancient sites. One of the most impressive is the Walnut Canyon National Monument, where visitors can see the cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people, who lived there from the 11th to the 13th century.

Flagstaff: A Hub of Science and Education

Flagstaff is not only a place for nature lovers and history buffs, but also for science enthusiasts and students. The city is home to the Lowell Observatory, one of the oldest and most prestigious observatories in the world. The observatory was founded in 1894 by Percival Lowell, who famously predicted the existence of Pluto. The observatory is still active today and hosts public tours and programs, as well as the $53 million Discovery Channel Telescope, one of the most advanced telescopes in the world.

Flagstaff is also a vibrant college town, as it hosts the Northern Arizona University, a public research university with more than 30,000 students. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, especially in the fields of environmental science, forestry, and engineering. The university also contributes to the cultural and social life of the city, with its art galleries, theaters, and sports teams.

Conclusion: Flagstaff: A City Worth Visiting

Flagstaff, Arizona, is one of the most overlooked destinations in the U.S., but it has a lot to offer to travelers who are looking for something different. Flagstaff is a city that combines nature, history, science, and education, in a charming and friendly atmosphere. Whether you are interested in exploring the Grand Canyon, learning about the Native American culture, stargazing at the Lowell Observatory, or enjoying the college vibe, Flagstaff has something for everyone. So, next time you are planning a trip to the U.S., don’t forget to include Flagstaff in your itinerary. You won’t regret it.