Flagstaff
Things to do
Lowell Observatory
This historic observatory is where Pluto was discovered. It offers daytime solar viewing and nighttime star gazing.
Location: 1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://lowell.edu/
2 miles to north campus (7 mins drive)
Walnut Canyon National Monument
A stunning canyon featuring ancient cliff dwellings. Hiking trails allow visitors to explore the canyon and view the dwellings up close.
Location: 3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: https://www.nps.gov/waca/index.htm
9 miles to north campus (15 mins drive)
Arizona Snowbowl
Located on the San Francisco Peaks, this ski resort offers year-round activities, including skiing in the winter and scenic gondola rides in the summer.
Location: 9300 N Snow Bowl Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: https://www.snowbowl.ski
15 miles to north campus (30 mins drive)
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Formed by a volcanic eruption nearly 900 years ago, this national monument showcases a rugged landscape of cinder cones and lava flows. Visitors can explore the lava fields and enjoy scenic trails that offer a close-up look at volcanic features.
Location: 6082 Sunset Crater Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: https://www.nps.gov/sucr/index.htm
20 miles to north campus (30 mins drive)
Wupatki National Monument
Home to numerous Native American ruins, this site offers a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural history through well-preserved pueblo structures.
Location: 25137 N Wupatki Ln, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Website: https://www.nps.gov/wupa/index.htm
30 miles to north campus (40 mins drive)
Sedona
Renowned for its stunning red rock formations and vibrant art scene, Sedona offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. This picturesque town is also known for its spiritual and wellness retreats.
Location: Sedona, AZ 86336
Website: https://visitsedona.com/
30 miles to north campus (50 mins drive)
Grand Canyon National Park
One of the world's premier natural attractions, the Grand Canyon is celebrated for its overwhelming size and its intricate and colorful landscape. Millions of visitors each year enjoy its spectacular vistas.
Location: Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Website: https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm
80 miles to north campus (1.5 hrs drive)
Places to eat
Explore on-campus dining options here.
Also, check out the following places close to NAU:
Pizzicletta: Known for its wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas and handmade pastas.
Beaver Street Brewery: A popular spot for craft beers and hearty American fare.
MartAnne’s Burrito Palace: Famous for its breakfast burritos and vibrant Mexican dishes.
Tinderbox Kitchen: Offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on American comfort food with a twist.
Ewa's Thai Cuisine: Authentic Thai cuisine offering a variety of dishes.
NiMarco's Pizza: Popular for its hand-tossed, New York-style pizza.
Toasted Owl Café: A family-owned café known for its eclectic, funky atmosphere and diverse menu.
Foret FLG: Focused on a farm-to-table concept, serving New American cuisine that highlights seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Asia Station: Offers a fusion of various Asian cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dishes.
Kokiyo: Known for its Korean cuisine, particularly for its Korean BBQ options.