Things To Do
Grand Canyon National Park
This big hole in the ground was our first National Park stop together! It's a quick hour and a half drive from Flagstaff and absolutely stunning at sunrise and sunset. Please note this is a June wedding and thus it will be hotttt at the canyon -- please be sure to pack water! If you haven't been, this natural wonder of the world is definitely worth a stop!
Crescent Moon Ranch
This is one of Leah's favorite watering holes to cool off in -- offers brilliant views of Cathedral Rock behind it! It's roughly a 45-75 min drive from Flagstaff depending on route and traffic. Sedona has MANY other hikes and watering holes, feel free to reach out if you need other suggestions for the red rock region!
Aspen Corner
Want to check out the sites behind our engagement photos? Aspen Corner along Snowbowl road is currently one of the best places to immerse yourself in some aspens. Head further up the road to Arizona Snowbowl and see what the town looks like from 9550 ft. Feeling extra adventurous? Take a day and hike up to Humphreys Peak, the tallest point in Arizona (12637 ft). Want to see the views without the muscle strains? Arizona Snowbowl also has a scenic gondola that takes you near the top of Agassiz.
Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve
The photo offers proof that Flagstaff gets snow! However, please do not expect snow around the time of the wedding. This quaint little spot is just a few minutes away from Leah's house and has been a personal favorite for runs/hikes/walks. Once you get past the smell of the water treatment plant at the beginning, you're left with the best of Flagstaff's nature. There's even a cute little waterfall and petroglyphs at the heart of it.
Lava River Cave
Looking to escape the heat and step back in time? The Lava River Tubes offer a unique experience for a quick hike underground where lava used to flow. The caves have a particular appeal in the summer time, as temperatures hover around 40 degrees year round. Please be sure to bring good headlights as the caves are blacker than black without sufficient lighting. Recommended to dress warm and wear closed toed shoes as the ground is uneven. If over 6 foot (90% of Allen family), please watch your head.
Lowell Observatory
We found Pluto, nbd. Also Pluto is a planet. Lowell Observatory offers some spectacular views of the stars, pray for a clear night and head up Mars hill to catch a glimpse of the final frontier. (For your viewing pleasure we planned our wedding right next to a new moon, you're welcome).
Cedar House Coffee Shop
If you want to visit our first date location, grab a coffee and pastery from this cute coffee house. Pop up cedar hill to nearby Buffalo Park for a lovely walk at dusk, too. Bonus points if you make a fool of yourself dropping off your partner like 5 houses away from their actual house when you go back to your Airbnb/hotel like Leah did with Keanan.
Tourist Home All Day Cafe
This is our favorite brunch spot, hands down. If you're 21+, highly recommend the Whisky Chai!
Pato Thai Cuisine
Seriously no one would think we'd have good Thai food here in Flagstaff..... and yet, places like Pato Thai (and others) exist and they are some of our favorite places to grab a bite to eat! Please be cautious going above spice level 4 (especially you midwesterners out there).
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
Looking to splurge a little? Mariposa has one of the best fine dining experiences we've had in the area. If you do go, please please please try the Yucca fries, they are kid-approved and absolutely to die for. This restaurant sits next to one of the best views of Sedona's red rocks -- definitely worth a visit if you can make it!