3. Flagstaff Arizona

This quaint mountain town is perfectly situated between two major destinations in Arizona, The Grand Canyon and Sedona. Stop through in the winter for a day of skiing or snowboarding at Snowbowl, or enjoy a summers hike through forests of tall aspen trees and meadows blanketed by sunflowers. Downtown is chock full of local restaurants, bars, art galleries, and craft stores. The rock climbing around town is world class, as is the mountain biking. Free dispersed camping can be had all around town between May and November, or book a stay at one of the many beautiful Airbnb listings.

Downtown might be small, but it definitely packs a punch. Be sure to visit Macy's coffee shop for a great cup of coffee, or La Bellavia in the morning for some of the best eggs benedict around.

Every October the aspen forests around Flagstaff turn into lush golden canopies. Be sure to take a drive down the forest roads off highway 180 north of town. Pack a picnic and spend a day relaxing in the glow of this stunning display.