9. Twin Arrows Casino

Twin Arrows Casino in Flagstaff, Arizona

For some reason, I just do not like this casino. Maybe it’s the atmosphere, the lack of quality restaurants, or the fact that the poker room is in the middle of the casino floor, however, it’s one that I would definitely skip. The only reason to possibly visit Twin Arrows would be to dine at Zenith Steakhouse, the one shining gem in this lackluster space. Disappointing as the only AAA Four Diamond casino in Arizona. Let’s just say, Vegas is only 3 hours away!

10. Most Flagstaff Events

The overly crowded Halloween Harvest event in Flagstaff, Arizona
The overly crowded Halloween Harvest event in Flagstaff, Arizona

Sadly, Flagstaff is not the town to visit if you are looking for fantastic events. Aside from a few decent options (Summer Movies on the Square, Art Walks, Farmer’s Market and Art Fairs), the majority of the events are quite boring and overpriced, mostly catered to tourists as opposed to locals, and typically consist of paying a lot of money simply to stand around.

Cornucopia was perhaps one of the worst of all: what could have been a festive fall/Halloween event was a drab affair with virtually no fall decor or ambiance and not a pumpkin in sight! After visiting too many to count fantastic fall events and fairs on the East Coast, I have to say this was a real bummer!

Other attractions/events to skip…

Montezuma Castle – While this 800+ year old cliff dwelling is interesting, I wouldn’t put it tops on your list. Another area where you can also see ancient cliff dwellings, and also incredible views, is Walnut Canyon National Monument. This beautiful recreational and historical hotspot is definitely more worthy of your time and money.

Montezuma Castle, a 900+ year old ancient apartment dwelling.
Montezuma Castle, a 900+ year old ancient apartment dwelling.

Halloween Harvest – This annual Halloween event, held in downtown Flagstaff, was a real disappointment. First off, there was not much going on. Second, it was catered only to children. Adults like Halloween too! Being used to the fun seasonal events in the East, the Halloween season in general was a real disappointment here. Sadly, a lack of haunted houses, hayrides, corn mazes, and the other usual fun seasonal events, makes Northern Arizona a pretty poor choice for a Halloween trip.

Halloween decor in downtown Flagstaff, Arizona

New Year’s Eve Pine cone drop at the Weatherford – Every year the Weatherford hotel in downtown Flagstaff holds a Times Square-ish celebration where a giant pine cone is dropped in replace of the crystal ball. As this is one of the most crowded events of the year, it’s an easy skip! Not worth the hassle of finding a parking spot, pushing through crowds, and attempting to find an empty restaurant seat! Stay at home and play board games or watch the real ball drop!

Each New Year's Eve at 10pm and Midnight, an enormous LED pine cone is dropped from the top of The Weatherford.
Each New Year’s Eve, an enormous LED pine cone is dropped from the top of The Weatherford.

Now it’s your turn! What are some of your favorite events, attractions, and recreational areas in Northern Arizona? Least favorite?