Downtown Flagstaff: A Historic Hub with Modern Appeal
Experience the vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern attractions in the heart of Flagstaff.
Downtown Flagstaff, the heart of this Northern Arizona city, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Situated along Route 66 and the Santa Fe Railroad, its historic charm is evident in the preserved neon signs and motor lodges. The area has transformed from its early days as a railroad town to a vibrant center for tourism and community events. Today, Downtown Flagstaff boasts a thriving dining scene, featuring James Beard award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and cozy coffee shops. Heritage Square serves as a central gathering place, hosting live music, summer movies, and various community events. The square's design is influenced by local history, incorporating elements like the Empress Theater's name into its amphitheater. Visitors can explore the area's rich history by visiting the Flagstaff Visitor Center, housed in the Tudor-style Santa Fe Railroad station. Here, they can find maps, brochures, and personalized travel information. Other notable landmarks include the Babbitt Brothers Building, the Weatherford Hotel, and the Coconino County Courthouse. Downtown Flagstaff also offers a variety of unique shops, art galleries, and entertainment venues, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Local tips
- Explore Heritage Square for events, live music, and a taste of local culture.
- Visit the Flagstaff Visitor Center in the historic train station for maps, information, and souvenirs.
- Check out local shops and restaurants for unique finds and dining experiences.
- Take a walking tour to discover the historic buildings and landmarks in the area.
A brief summary to Downtown Flagstaff
- 6 E Aspen Ave # 200, Flagstaff, Arizona, 86001, US
- +1928-275-2655
Getting There
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Walking
Downtown Flagstaff is easily walkable, with most attractions located within a few blocks of each other. From the Flagstaff Amtrak station, head west on Route 66 (also known as Santa Fe Avenue) to reach the heart of downtown. Heritage Square is a few blocks north on Aspen Avenue. Walking is free and allows you to fully appreciate the area's historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
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Public Transport
Mountain Line, Flagstaff's public bus system, serves downtown with multiple routes. Several bus stops are located along major streets like Route 66 and Aspen Avenue. A single ride costs $1.25 for adults , and day passes are available for $2.50. Check the Mountain Line website for schedules and route information to plan your trip.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Flagstaff. A short trip from the Amtrak station or other locations on the edge of downtown to Heritage Square typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on demand and distance. These services offer a convenient option for reaching specific destinations within downtown.
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Parking
Parking in Downtown Flagstaff is managed by ParkFlag. Public parking costs $1 per hour. You can pay at any kiosk using a credit/debit card or cash. There are also options to pay online or via the Flowbird app (with a $0.23 convenience fee). Free parking is available outside the managed parking area and after 5 PM on weekends in City and County lots. Two new surface lots have been added: Aspen Avenue lot (107 West Aspen Ave) and Cherry Avenue lot (101 West Cherry Ave).