Television personality and AZfoothills.com columnist Nadine Toren is scouring the area, finding savvy Valley features, bringing readers “on the scene.” Every day she’ll introduce you to celebrities, athletes, and give you an inside look into local events and hot spots. She'll touch on topical issues, and keep AZ fans posted on all the big talkers around town.

Ditch the Valley and experience Flagstaff like a celeb.  Here's your must-do guide for your holiday getaway.

It’s an easy holiday escape, and it tops TripAdvisor’s hot list for gas-saving Valley Road trips.  The Memorial Day getaway offers more than 200 restaurants, numerous night spots, a combination of culture, adventurous attractions, and top notch accommodations.  Yes, consider skipping town for the 3-day weekend, and head to Flagstaff sporting some of the west’s most beautiful country surroundings.  From the Coconino National Forest and San Francisco Peaks to the Red Rocks and Grand Canyon, this Arizona area has something for anyone who craves a quick vacation.

It takes about an hour and half from the Valley to cruise to the beautiful and charming wide open spaces of Flagstaff.  Your first stop should be checking into one of Flag’s famous Bed & Breakfast joints, rated AAA 3-Diamond resorts.

The Inn at 410 Bed & Breakfast is a Top 10 Arizona B&B.  It has nine lavish guestrooms; all equipped with private baths, fireplaces, and some with Jacuzzi tubs.  Wake up to an award-winning breakfast, then stroll the streets of the city being centrally located in the heart of historic downtown.  It’s a Frommer’s top recommendation.  (www.inn410.com) 

Another savvy place to sleep: Flagstaff’s Starlight Pines Bed & Breakfast.  The Top 10 B&B boasts beautiful views of Mount Elden, and has a country feel with a large wrap-around porch and swing.  The 14-foot ceilings, hardwood floor, and Tiffany décor makes for quite a delectable experience and all four rooms come with private baths.  (www.starlightpinesbb.com)

Once you pick your place to stay, you’ll have tons of options when it comes to day-time activities.

Swing by Arizona Snowbowl—yes, it’s a year-round playground.  During the high temps you can take the scenic sky-ride up 11,500 feet, then dine and disc golf.  Snowbowl launches its summer season this weekend.  (arizonasnowbowl.com)

And who would have thought AZ is home to the youngest volcano on the Colorado Plateau?  Located 12 miles north of Flagstaff is Sunset Crater, which endured a dramatic series of eruptions 900 years ago.  Travel back in time and check out the aftermath on the one-mile, self-guided Lava Flow Trail.