Any time of year is a great time to visit Flagstaff, AZ. This beautiful alpine town is located in Western Arizona, and is less than two hours from the Grand Canyon. It is an ideal vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts, who will enjoy the rich and varied wilderness of the region. From cool lakes and pine forests to desert plateaus, Flagstaff is a great place for every type of eco-tour adventure. Even within the city, the Flagstaff Urban Trails System links the entire area through a network of well maintained footpaths, open to biking, walking, and jogging.

Steeped in Native American tradition and surrounded by national parks, Flagstaff is a very unique destination. For a fascinating day trip, check out the 800-year old cliff dwellings at Walnut Canyon National Monument, or visit the ruins of Native American pueblos at Wupatki National Monument. Venture a little further to visit Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Lake Powell, or plan a whitewater adventure at the famous Grand Canyon.

Home to North Arizona University, the city of Flagstaff is a pleasant college town, with lots of tasty restaurants and hip breweries in the city center. Visitors often like to gather downtown at Heritage Square, where there are weekly live music and cinema events. Buffalo Park is another great place to hang out in town, offering an extensive set of hiking trails and beautiful views of the San Francisco Peaks.

There are myriad things to do in Flagstaff, but here are some of the best places to visit on your trip:

• The Arboretum at Flagstaff: A lovely botanical garden presenting one of the most diverse collections of wildflowers in the country, extensive hiking trails, and beautiful views.
• Flagstaff Nordic Center: This center is a green ponderosa pine forest and paradise for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• Arizona Snowbowl: Come here to experience more than 30 trails for downhill skiing and snowboarding on a pretty Flagstaff mountain.
• Lowell Observatory: A famous research observatory open to the public, this observatory offers daily guided tours and telescope viewing.
• Coconino National Forest: This diverse national forest is home to one of the world's largest ponderosa pine forests, as well as high desert landscapes.
• Arizona Historical Society-Pioneer Museum: Come here to learn more about Arizona and Flagstaff history told through artifacts and exhibits, including a full-size steam locomotive.

For many, Flagstaff is a place close to nature. Therefore, a cozy cabin rental in the woods is ideal. For others, the perfect vacation rental is a vacation rental near the slopes. If you want to stay around Flagstaff's cultural offerings, consider a condo or apartment rental downtown or near Arizona State, which will keep you close to all the action.