Two-Day Shoestring Budget Road Trip in Flagstaff, AZ

Day 1: Nature Exploration

Flagstaff, AZ

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Kick off your day with a delicious homemade breakfast at The Cottage, where you can enjoy their famous stuffed French toast in a cozy setting.
Located just a short drive from downtown.
USD12, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Visit Walnut Canyon National Monument

After breakfast, take a scenic 15-minute drive to Walnut Canyon, where you can explore the ancient cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people.
Follow the signs from The Cottage to Walnut Canyon.
USD10 for vehicle entry, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Diablo Burger

Enjoy a locally sourced burger at Diablo Burger, known for their tasty, sustainable choices right in downtown Flagstaff.
Head back to downtown Flagstaff, roughly a 20-minute drive.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Hiking at the San Francisco Peaks

Spend your afternoon hiking the scenic trails at the San Francisco Peaks, where stunning views await at every turn.
Take US-180 N for about 30 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Relax at Buffalo Park

Wind down with a leisurely stroll at Buffalo Park, which features an easy 2-mile loop amidst beautiful pine forests.
Return to Flagstaff center, about a 15-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Grand Falls

End your day with a casual picnic dinner from groceries at a local supermarket enjoying the sunset views of the Grand Falls - a hidden gem near Flagstaff.
Drive about 40 minutes northeast to reach the falls.
USD15 (for groceries), 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Insights

Flagstaff, AZ

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Place

Start your second day with some delicious breakfast burritos at The Place, where you'll find comfort food in a friendly atmosphere.
Located in downtown Flagstaff.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Explore Lowell Observatory

After breakfast, head to Lowell Observatory where you can discover the fascinating world of astronomy and even peer through the historic telescopes.
A short 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Walk at the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Take a guided tour of the historic Riordan Mansion and enjoy the surrounding gardens, giving you a glimpse into the city's past.
Only a 5-minute drive from Lowell Observatory.
USD7, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Pita Jungle

Fuel up with fresh Mediterranean cuisine at Pita Jungle, which offers a variety of healthy options to choose from.
Just a short drive back to downtown Flagstaff.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Stroll through Downtown Flagstaff

Enjoy browsing the unique shops and local artisan stores in downtown Flagstaff at your own pace.
You can explore this area on foot.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Museum of Northern Arizona, where you can explore collections on Native American cultures and local geological history.
Take a quick 10-minute drive to the museum.
USD12, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Wrap it up with Coffee at Fire Creek Coffee Company

Before heading home, sip on a lovely cup of local coffee as you reflect on your trip and gather your thoughts.
A drive or walk back into downtown Flagstaff.
USD5, 1 hour
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