Arizona State Parks

The Mansion is festively decorated in turn-of-the-century style with wreaths, garlands, greenery and a towering fir tree trimmed with old-fashioned ornaments. Guided tours during this time include glimpses of folklore and traditions of Christmas, both past and present.

Learn from Kevin Schindler of Lowell Observatory how his repeat photography project expanded and grew into a book documenting how the Canyon and its natural and human-made features have changed – and in some cases remained startlingly the same – over the past century plus.

The original 1904 light fixtures with Edison style bulbs provide a beautiful glow in the Riordan Mansion for this special evening tour. These special guided tours will focus on the history behind Christmas traditions and guests will have the special treat of seeing the Christmas tree and billiards room photo transparency windows at night. Reservations required.

Weather permitting, the grounds will be lit with luminarias and Santa will be strolling the grounds, Visitor Center, and West House museum to visit with children to hear their Christmas wishes. Hot apple cider will be available in the visitor center.

Enjoy the view of the Riordan Mansion by the light of luminarias lining the path. The grounds will be open until 6 pm and hot apple cider will be available in the visitor center with your $2.00 park admission. Event is weather permitting.

Nature In Your Backyard Winter Edition! Join us for an exploration of wintertime nature in Flagstaff. This guided walk will last about an hour as we explore our five acres.