New Years trip

Question

We are coming to Flagstaff for the first time 12/30-1/4. We chose Flagstaff because we wanted a snowy vacation for my 5 year old. The Santa express and the sleigh rides are sold out already. Are going to have too much time on our hands for five nights? Other than the snow park and possibly skiing what else could we do for five days with a 5 year old? Thanks!

Answer

Visiting Flagstaff over New Year’s is a wonderful choice for a snowy vacation, especially with a young child. Even though some special events like the Santa Express and sleigh rides are sold out, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to fill five days without feeling bored.

Flagstaff itself offers charming winter scenery, and with snow likely on the ground, there are lots of outdoor activities that can be tailored for a 5-year-old. Here are some suggestions:

Snow Play and Sledding: Areas like Arizona Snowbowl or local snow parks provide hills for sledding. You can bring your own sleds or rent equipment nearby. Even simple snowball fights or building snowmen can keep a child entertained for hours.
Arizona Snowbowl: If your family enjoys skiing or snowboarding, the Snowbowl offers beginner slopes, lessons, and scenic chairlift rides that are suitable for young children. Chairlift rides provide beautiful views of the San Francisco Peaks even if you don’t ski.
Lowell Observatory: Flagstaff’s famous observatory is educational and interactive. Children can enjoy hands-on exhibits, and evening star-gazing programs may still be available if weather permits.
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park: A short visit to this historic mansion offers a glimpse of early 20th-century life in Flagstaff. Guided tours are kid-friendly and can be educational without being overly long.
Buffalo Park: This large, open space is perfect for winter walks, snow play, and letting your child run around safely. Scenic views of the peaks make it enjoyable for adults as well.
Flagstaff Arboretum or Local Parks: Even in winter, short walks to see trees, wildlife, or just explore the snow are simple ways to enjoy nature with a young child.
Day Trips: Consider short drives to nearby attractions such as Sedona (red rocks look beautiful with a dusting of snow), Meteor Crater, or the Grand Canyon (weather permitting). These excursions can be exciting for a child and offer variety.

Indoor options in case of extreme weather:

Children’s Museum of Phoenix: If you’re willing to drive a bit, indoor museums with interactive exhibits can offer a warm, engaging experience.
Local Libraries or Community Centers: Sometimes offer story times, crafts, or small activities for children, especially during holidays.
Hotel or Airbnb Activities: Many accommodations have game rooms, indoor pools, or other kid-friendly amenities to pass time if outdoor conditions are harsh.

Tips for your 5-year-old:

Dress in layers, including waterproof gloves and boots, as winter temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Keep daily schedules flexible to avoid overtiring your child, and plan alternating outdoor and indoor activities.
Check local calendars for any New Year’s events suitable for families, such as fireworks or community gatherings that might be kid-friendly.

Overall, five nights in Flagstaff can be filled comfortably with a mix of outdoor snow activities, scenic drives, and educational indoor stops. Even without the Santa Express or sleigh rides, a snowy winter vacation in Flagstaff can be magical for a young child, with plenty to see and do for the whole family.

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