Flagstaff, Arizona, stands out for more than just its proximity to the Grand Canyon and the San Francisco Peaks. This mountain town packs a punch when it comes to history and stories, with a lively past that includes railroads, Wild West tales, ghost legends, and Native American culture. Unlike many destinations that offer generic sightseeing, Flagstaff’s historic tours focus on local character, authentic stories, and immersive experiences. Whether you’re interested in riding a Segway past historic landmarks or exploring underground tunnels, Flagstaff has something uniquely memorable for every kind of traveler.
This guide highlights the seven best historical tours in Flagstaff, each with its own flavor—from entertaining ghost walks to deep dives into Native American lands. We’ve looked at reviews, value, and what makes each tour stand out so you can pick the experience that best suits your interests and schedule.
1. Fun Flagstaff History Segway Tour
At number 1, the Fun Flagstaff History Segway Tour offers a lively way to explore the town’s core. For $129, you’ll spend about 2 hours zipping between historic landmarks, including downtown Flagstaff, the Railroad District, and Northern Arizona University. The tour features large headsets so you won’t miss any fun facts as your guide shares stories about the city’s founding and development.
What makes this tour special is its small-group format and the use of Segways, which allow you to cover more ground comfortably. The itinerary includes stops at the historic downtown, the beautiful parks, and Lowell Observatory, along with humorous and insightful stories about Flagstaff’s past. Reviewers love Blake, the guide, praising his safety-conscious attitude and extensive local knowledge. One reviewer remarked, “Blake was outstanding and very encouraging, especially for first-time Segway riders.”
This tour suits travelers who want a fun, active way to see the sights without sacrificing depth. It’s ideal for those who appreciate storytelling paired with a playful experience. The main consideration is that you need to be comfortable on a Segway, but the guide tailors the experience to all levels.
Bottom line: Perfect for active visitors eager for a dynamic, informative tour that combines sightseeing with a bit of adventure.
2. Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Walking Tour
Next, the Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Walking Tour offers a different kind of exploration—this one filled with ghost stories and spooky legends. For $28, you’ll walk for about 75 minutes through some of Flagstaff’s most haunted spots, guided by a gothic character who brings the ghostly tales to life.
This tour balances history and storytelling —you’ll hear about legendary spirits, haunted hotels, and eerie events linked to the town’s past. Tour guides like Revel and Michelle are praised for their engaging storytelling, with reviews noting the “energy and entertainment” they bring. One reviewer said, “Revol made the stories come alive; it was fun and a bit spooky.”
It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, local lore, and a touch of thrill. The tour isn’t overly scary, so it’s suitable for families or those new to ghost stories but still want a good scare. The short duration makes it easy to combine with dinners or other evening activities in town.
Bottom line: A fun, engaging way to experience Flagstaff’s darker side, especially if you enjoy storytelling with a spooky twist.
3. Southside Flagstaff Haunted History, True Crime, And Ghost Tour
At number 3, the Southside Flagstaff Haunted History, True Crime, And Ghost Tour dives into Flagstaff’s darker past, especially focused on its rough-and-tumble Southside neighborhood. For $28, this 1.5-hour tour escorts you through historic sites related to outlaws, ghost stories, and true crime tales from the area’s past.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on wild and mysterious stories from Flagstaff’s Red Light District days, which many visitors overlook. Local tour guide James narrates with passion, sharing stories about notorious figures, haunted landmarks, and spirits lurking in the shadows. Reviewer comments include, “James was a captivating storyteller, bringing the Southside’s history and hauntings to life.”
Ideal for travelers interested in true crime and ghost stories, this tour combines history with a good dose of entertainment. Its relaxed pace and local insights make it especially appealing to those who want to see the city’s edgier side. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for those comfortable with some spooky stories and urban legends.
Bottom line: A compelling option for fans of ghost tales, true crime, and Flagstaff’s legendary past.
4. Flagstaff: Underground Historical Walking Tour
Number 4 on our list is the Flagstaff: Underground Historical Walking Tour, which takes you beneath the streets to explore the city’s hidden tunnels and basement spaces. For $30, the 75-minute journey begins at Firecreek Coffee Company and uncovers secret parts of Flagstaff that are usually off-limits.
This tour is immersive, as your guide shares stories about the Wild West, Prohibition-era speakeasies, and underground spaces that reveal the city’s less-visible history. Guests rave about the guide Scott, who is both humorous and informative. One reviewer said, “Scott shared fascinating stories and let us use the K2 meters and voice boxes—such a fun touch.” The tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts interested in urban archaeology and underground secrets.
Compared to street-level sightseeing, this experience offers a unique perspective on Flagstaff’s past that’s often overlooked. It’s perfect for those who enjoy hidden stories and are willing to venture beneath the surface. The only potential drawback is that it requires some walking and stepping into tunnels, which might not suit everyone with mobility concerns.
Bottom line: Ideal for curious travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look at Flagstaff’s underground world.
5. Flagstaff Cemetery Haunted History Tour
Number 5 is the Flagstaff Cemetery Haunted History Tour, a one-hour walk through Citizens Cemetery. For $40, you’ll visit graves of notable figures like Perry Owens, the TWA mass grave, and Vesto Slipher, the astronomer who confirmed the motion of galaxies.
This tour stands out for its focused exploration of Flagstaff’s notable and sometimes spooky buried characters. The guide brings to life stories of outlaws, aviation tragedies, and scientific discoveries, making each grave more meaningful. The reviews highlight the tour’s balance of history and somber storytelling, with one saying, “The tour made me see the city’s past in a new light, especially the stories of its colorful characters.”
Ideal for travelers interested in local personalities and ghostly tales, the cemetery tour offers a more reflective experience. It’s suited for those who appreciate history in a solemn setting, though it’s shorter than other options. Be prepared for an emotional journey through Flagstaff’s more somber stories.
Bottom line: A respectful, engaging way to learn about Flagstaff’s historic figures and ghost stories in a quiet, contemplative setting.
6. Hopi Lands and Cultural Tour from Flagstaff
Number 6 is a lengthy but enriching Hopi Lands and Cultural Tour from Flagstaff. Priced at $328.45, this 9-hour tour immerses you in Hopi culture and history by visiting the oldest continuously inhabited villages in the U.S. such as Walpi and First Mesa.
This tour is all about authentic Native American experiences. You’ll see panoramic views at the Little Painted Desert Scenic View and visit Hopi sites where traditional crafts and stories are shared. The tour is guided by Hopi community members, providing insight into their ancestral lands, traditions, and way of life. It’s highly regarded for its depth and cultural authenticity but is quite long and requires a full day. Reviewers appreciate that this is a comprehensive, respectful look into Hopi history and spirituality.
If you want a meaningful experience that emphasizes cultural exchange and respect, this tour is unmatched. It’s best for travelers who are prepared for a full day and want to connect deeply with Native American traditions. Its price reflects the extensive itinerary and the quality of the experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for culturally curious travelers seeking an in-depth, respectful introduction to Hopi lands.
7. From Flagstaff or Sedona: Hopi Lands Cultural Tour & Lunch
Finally, the Hopi Lands Cultural Tour & Lunch offers a full-day experience with a cultural and culinary focus. For around 10-11 hours, at $328 per person, this tour combines Hopi village visits with a traditional lunch at the Hopi Cultural Center.
It covers Hopi culture and heritage, including a guided tour of Walpi, and visits to the Hopi Museum. The experiential focus on learning about Native American traditions makes this a well-rounded cultural day trip. Guests rave about the expert guides and the authentic lunch, which adds a satisfying culinary element to the tour. This is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, immersive experience with plenty of time to ask questions and engage.
Great for travelers with a full day to spare who want to deepen their understanding of Hopi culture beyond just sightseeing. Since it includes lunch and visits multiple sites, it offers excellent value for the full-day price. Keep in mind that advance booking is recommended, as spaces fill quickly.
Bottom line: The ideal choice for culturally interested travelers seeking an all-inclusive, meaningful exploration of Hopi lands with local cuisine.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a historic tour in Flagstaff, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re looking for a fun, active way to explore, the Segway tour offers a modern twist. For fans of ghost stories, the Haunted Walking Tour and the Southside Ghost Tour present spooky tales rooted in real history.
Those interested in hidden underground spaces should consider the Underground Walking Tour, which reveals secret tunnels and basements. If you’re drawn to biography and local legends, the Cemetery Tour offers stories of notable figures buried in Flagstaff’s quiet grounds.
For a deep dive into Native American culture, the Hopi Lands and Cultural Tour from Flagstaff and the Hopi Lands Cultural Tour & Lunch provide authentic, guided experiences. Keep in mind that longer tours require more time but offer richer cultural insights.
Booking early, especially for full-day tours, ensures availability. Consider your budget, physical comfort, and interest level—a ghost walk is very different from an immersive Hopi cultural experience.
Final Thoughts
Flagstaff’s range of historical tours offers something for all—from adventure-seeking young travelers to those interested in Native American traditions or haunted legends. For a quick, fun overview, the Segway tour delivers both entertainment and education. If your heart beats for spooky stories, the haunted walks and Southside ghost tour provide plenty of thrills.
For those craving a more profound cultural experience, the Hopi Lands tours are hard to beat, offering insights into ancient traditions and vibrant communities. All these tours can enrich your visit and deepen your understanding of Flagstaff’s fascinating past.
Remember to book early—especially for full-day tours—and pick the experience that matches your curiosity, fitness level, and timeframe. With so many options, Flagstaff’s story is waiting to be uncovered—and each tour is a chapter worth experiencing.