17. Take a self guided tour of Arizona’s most haunted city

The historic hotel Monte Vista in downtown Flagstaff AZ

Pick up a free map in the Flagstaff Visitor Center of the most haunted locations in town. The city offers guided tours in October, but why pay when you can pick up a map and explore yourself at no cost? From here, you can check out all the historic buildings. This is especially fun around Halloween season when the temps begin to drop and pretty fall foliage begins to line the streets downtown. The most haunted building? Definitely the Monte Vista which has had the most reported sightings anywhere in town – so many in fact that it is known to be one of America’s most haunted hotels! Dare to stay the night? Check out spooky Room 305 where many guests have seen a ghostly vision of a woman on a rocking chair.

18. Enjoy some old-fashioned fun at the Jay Lively Activity Center

Jay Lively ice skating rink in Flagstaff, Arizona

Ice skating is the perfect affordable fun date night idea. Coming in at around 20 bucks for 2 (and even cheaper if you own a pair of skates), skating is a great way to get out for a bit without breaking the bank. Although Flagstaff does not have an outdoor ice rink (strange for a mountain town), they do have a pretty big ice rink which offers seasonal events and adults only skate sessions. Be on the lookout for special deals in the Flagstaff Money Savers coupon booklet.

As opposed to the standard movie and a dinner date, ice skating is a refreshing, exciting, and more affordable. It is the perfect date idea for anyone seeking budget friendly winter entertainment.

19. Take in gorgeous mountain scenery via a quiet stroll around Bismark Lake

Beautiful views around the Bismark Lake trail in Flagstaff, Arizona

The quiet, picturesque, and short Bismark Lake trail is quite a hassle to get to, however, this also means less foot traffic! Once you begin this peaceful trail, you will agree that the long, slow drive up a dirt road was well worth it for the grand mountain vistas. Come fall, colorful aspens line the trail. A stroll along the Bismark Lake trail is a fun and free activity to add into your spring, summer, or fall itinerary!

20. Pick out your own fresh fall pumpkin at Hitchin’ Post Stables

Pumpkin in the Pines Flagstaff

During the fall, Flagstaff’s premier horseback riding company puts on a seasonal event called Pumpkin in the Pines. The event features hayrides, a mini corn maze, and a patch where you can pick your own farm fresh pumpkins. Pricing is $12 for a hayride, the petting zoo, and the hay maze. Or keep it cheap and just pick out a pumpkin and enjoy the seasonal decor. This budget friendly event is a great opportunity to enjoy the cool seasonal temps, along with some old-fashioned fun!

21. Attend the free 4th of July concert by the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra

Flagstaff 4th of July Symphony orchestra at Fort Tuthill

Each 4th of July, the very talented Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra puts on a festive, free event for the public featuring a medley of patriotic and classical songs. It’s definitely the event not to be missed during Flagstaff’s multi day 4th celebration. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy sitting amongst the cool pines at Fort Tuthill park for this free holiday celebration.

22. Get out your snowshoes & explore the snow covered trails

Snowshoeing along the Aspen Nature Loop in Flagstaff, Arizona

All winter long at Snowbowl you can enjoy winter recreational activities on snow covered trails. Best of all, it will cost you absolutely nothing if you bring your own equipment! Because of the high elevation and dense tree coverage, the snow tends to stay around a lot longer. This means that the conditions are typically perfect for fun winter activities like snowshoeing. If you have your own, then this is the perfect free activity.

No snowshoes? No problem! You can rent them at a sporting goods store like Babbitt’s for just 15 bucks or so. However, I recommend purchasing your own pair as they will easily pay for themselves after just a few uses. MTN snowshoes is my brand of choice as they are affordable, come with a handy carrying case, and the poles can also be used for hiking. Be aware that you will need to apply for a free backcountry pass to enjoy these trails.

Buffalo Park, Ft. Tuthill, and Campbell Mesa are also great places to ski/snowshoe following a big storm, although the snow does not stick around quite as long in the lower altitude parks. No matter which trail you pick, snowshoeing is a fantastic budget alternative to skiing. No need to pay big bucks for Arizona Snowbowl or the Nordic Center when you can ditch the heavy crowds for a quiet nature experience that comes at a much cheaper price.

23. Enjoy free downtown holiday fun

The annual Christmas Tree in downtown Flagstaff, Arizona

All throughout December, the city of Flagstaff puts on a number of festive, free events for the community. A lively holiday lights parade kicks off the season. Other attractions and events not to miss include the lighting of the annual Christmas tree in Heritage Square, free holiday classics at The Orpheum, the annual pinecone drop at the Weatherford hotel, and the Snowflake festival at the Historic train station. Check out more holiday fun in Northern Arizona.