15 Budget Friendly Spring Vacation Destinations
15. Flagstaff, Arizona
Fantastic views of the mountains from the Aspen Nature Loop in Flagstaff
When one thinks of Arizona, the thought of palm trees, dry desert scenery, and insanely hot temperatures often comes to mind. But pine trees, 4 season weather, and some of the highest snowfall totals in the country? Look no further than Northern Arizona’s Flagstaff for a drastically different setting than that found in Southern Arizona. It’s hard to believe that this pine tree covered oasis is just a short 2 hour drive away. Flagstaff is home to the world’s largest ponderosa forest, endless hiking trails, Northern Arizona University, and some of the best skiing in the Southwest at Snowbowl.
Summer wildflowers near Sunset Crater, just 20 minutes outside of Flagstaff.
Gorgeous aspen groves line the Aspen Nature Loop trail at Flagstaff’s Snowbowl.
Beautiful Pumphouse County Natural Area in Kachina Village, 7 miles south of Flagstaff.
The city is located within a half day’s drive of so many interesting attractions including the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Las Vegas, Walnut Canyon and Sunset Crater National Monuments, the Petrified National Forest, and many, many other spectacular places. It is a popular rest area for those traveling to and from different magnificent places all over Arizona and Nevada.
Amazing scenery at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, just a 2 hour drive north of Flagstaff.
At Walnut Canyon, you can explore ancient cliff dwellings, take in magnificent views of the canyon, as well as get in a little workout on the 240 step staircase!
The gorgeous Lava Flow trail at Sunset Crater National Monument.
A close up of petrified wood at the Petrified National Forest.
The town itself offers many amenities including a historic downtown lined with local shops and restaurants, miles and miles of hiking trails within the Cococino National Forest, and Lowell Observatory (famous for being the location of the discovery of Pluto).
The summer is typically the busy tourist season, however, if you visit during late spring the crowds and traffic will be less intense. In addition to the absence of summer travelers, this is when the majority of college students are leaving for the end of the semester.
Budget friendly fun in the area
*Trying out local restaurants and coffee shops in historic downtown Flagstaff – Flagstaff’s historic downtown neighborhood is home to dozens of individual restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, wine bars, and galleries.
The Weatherford Hotel is a gorgeous historic building in the center of the downtown area. They have a great little restaurant called Charly’s, featuring great Southwestern fare and large windows to take in the views!
Cuvee 928 is a cute little local wine shop with great food. Try the spinach artichoke dip! Nice big windows for people watching downtown, too!
Late for the Train is a local roaster, and is your best bet for a fantastic espresso drink!
Historic hotel Monte Vista, built in 1926, is supposedly haunted!
*Getting out in nature to enjoy the wonderful hiking trails – Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the 4 season climate and many opportunities for outdoor recreation all year long. The city, which sits at a 7000 foot elevation, is surrounded by views of the beautiful San Francisco peaks (at 12,633 feet they are the highest in Arizona). There are tons of hiking trails within and surrounding Flagstaff. Although very short and easy, one of the best for outstanding mountain views is a simple 2 mile loop around Buffalo park (amazing views of the San Francisco peaks).
Buffalo Park is a nice easy 2 mile loop trail for everyone, featuring the best views in town of Mt. Elden and the San Francisco Peaks.
A few must-do trails while in town include Fat Man’s Loop, Red Mountain, Aspen Nature Loop, and Veit Springs.
Fat Man’s loop is a nice easy/moderate trail right in town, with great overlooks of the mountains and city!
The Red Mountain hike, just 30 minutes outside of Flagstaff, is an easy 3 mile stroll which will take you to the inside of a 470,000 year old volcano! Some of the best views in the area!
The Aspen Nature Loop is a short 1.7 mile loop taking you past gorgeous aspens & pines, along with offering some of the best mountain views in the area.
The easy, 1.5 mile Veit Springs trail, is one of the greenest trails in the area. A short stroll will take you through aspens groves and beautiful ponderosa forests.
*Taking the short drive to Sedona for breathtaking red rock mountain views & amazing hiking trails – Sedona, with its’ towering red rock formations, is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Spring is an ideal time to visit as the weather is generally pretty mild, not too hot, nor too cold. And, it is nowhere near as crowded as the prime summer season.
Devil’s Bridge is one of the most scenic hiking options in Sedona. Absolutely breathtaking!
As long as you are not afraid of heights, the walk across Devil’s Bridge is simply spectacular!
Here you will find miles and miles of hiking trails with dramatic views of the incredible landscapes found in the area. One of the best hiking options in the area is Devil’s Bridge. You will not be dissapointed with the outstanding panoramic views from the summit. If you only have time for one hike, this is definitely the way to go! Simply amazing views! Other great hikes include Boynton Canyon, Little Horse, and Fay Canyon.
A view of the Little Horse Trail, an easy, yet long 3 mile stroll. Outstanding views of many notable red rock formations including Courthouse Butte and 2 Nuns!
Amazing red rock views on the easy Fay Canyon Trail. This short 2 mile stroll is perfect for beginners! Enjoy the peaceful views on one of the area’s easiest trails.
*Scenic driving through Oak Creek Canyon – Oak Creek Canyon is one of Arizona’s most scenic drives. Located just south of Flagstaff along Hwy 89a lies this beautiful stretch of drive which is lined with forest views and colorful rock formations. Along the way, you will find scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Fall is a particularly scenic time to visit. Be sure to plan for a hike along the West Fork Trail!
The scenic red rock views from Oak Creek Canyon drive.
The West Fork trail features 13 fun & challenging creek crossings, as well as great views of the towering red rock formations.
Have you visited any of the destinations listed above? What are some of your favorite budget friendly vacation areas?
