At the foot of Mount Elden, there once lived a civilization which traded as far as Mexico and the California coast. These people were known as the Sinagua. This site was thought to be part of an extensive trading post across the southwest. The remnants of the pueblo can be visited at anytime, however the Arizona Natural History Association, Northern Arizona University and the Coconino National Forest offer guided ones every day. Throughout the year, the archaeological teams educate the public in excavation techniques, artifact identification and other scientific endeavors. Overall, it's a great place for kids to discover the wonders of both natural as well as human history.
Education literally takes a different point of view at Northern Arizona University, due to its silhouette against Flagstaff's San Francisco Peaks. Surrounded by aspen and pine trees in four distinct seasons, students are challenged to better themselves intellectually through an eclectic array of classes and activities. Founded in 1899, NAU lays the groundwork for liberal arts education with opportunities to prepare for a number of specialized professions. Today, nearly 20,000 students embrace the future with their choice of 100 baccalaureate, 40 masters, and eight doctoral degrees. The cultural scene is kept active by various plays, dramas and concerts held at the Studio Theatre in Performing Arts Building. The Cline Assembly Hall in the Cline Library is also frequently used for ceremonies, lectures and talks.
Originally built as a hospital in 1908, this museum is operated by the Arizona Historical Society and serves as a tribute to Northern Arizona's pioneer days and agricultural roots. An antique railroad engine welcomes you to the grounds, and exhibits familiarize you with the area's first settlers and their many contributions to the birth and growth of the city. One of the museum's most popular events during the year is the winter "Playthings of the Past" exhibit, featuring toys and games from the late 1800s to mid-1900s.
While Old Main features mainly artists from out of town, the other university gallery showcases pieces created by its art students, most of which must be considered experimental. The artwork on display is not for sale. Located in the Performance and Fine Arts Building, Beasley presents works of graduates in exhibits that change weekly. Also, there are annual juried faculty exhibits and biennial Bachelor of Fine Arts exhibits. Admission is free.
Historic Beaver Street is lined with galleries, shops, breweries, restaurants and stores galore, always a nice place to come when you're in downtown Flagstaff. The Beaver Street Gallery brings a myriad of artwork, from sculpted pieces to oil on canvas, there is always something that piques the intellect and curiosity. The artists are not only locals either, in fact, some artists hail from Japan, China, the Netherlands and from elsewhere around the world.