11 Oldest Founded Towns To Visit In Arizona
Arizona beckons tourists with its perfect mix of stunning landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and history steeped in legacy. The Grand Canyon State boasts a diverse terrain that ranges from towering mountains and vast deserts to lush forests and winding canyons. Another nickname for Arizona, “The Copper State,” highlights its significant copper mining history, which has played a vital role in the state’s economy and development.
Visiting the 11 oldest-founded towns in Arizona offers travelers a captivating journey through the state's legacy, culture, and scenic beauty. Each town bears witness to centuries of human habitation, from indigenous settlements to Spanish colonial outposts and pioneer communities. By exploring these towns, visitors can delve into Arizona’s past, uncovering ancient ruins, preserved landmarks, and vibrant cultural traditions that continue to thrive today.
Wickenburg
Founded in 1863 during the heyday of the Gold Rush, Wickenburg is celebrated for its Western heritage, attracting prospectors, cowboys, and adventurers seeking fortune in the rugged frontier. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Old West at the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, which houses a vast collection of Western art, artifacts, and Native American crafts depicting the region's storied past and offering a fascinating glimpse into cowboy culture.
Seize the opportunity to marvel at the Jail Tree, a living relic of Wickenburg’s Wild West days. This massive mesquite tree once served as an impromptu jail, with outlaws chained to its branches while awaiting trial. It is also a popular photo spot for visitors eager to capture a piece of Arizona’s Old West lore. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Hassayampa River Preserve, teeming with native flora and fauna. It offers scenic hiking trails that showcase the Sonoran Desert’s biodiversity and natural beauty.
Prescott
Known as “Everybody’s Hometown,” Prescott is one of Arizona’s oldest and most charming cities. The Sharlot Hall Museum is a cultural and historical gem that celebrates the heritage of Arizona and the Southwest, with exhibits and artifacts that chronicle the region’s pioneer days and mining history. Meanwhile, retrace the footsteps of iconic cowboys and outlaws as you stroll past Whiskey Row. This historic street is lined with saloons and restaurants, like the Palace Restaurant and Saloon, where legends were born and tales were told over a glass of whiskey.
Explore the wonders of the animal kingdom at the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, home to a diverse collection of wildlife from around the world, such as mountain lions, black bears, and gray wolves. Alternatively, Watson Lake is a scenic reservoir surrounded by granite boulders and ponderosa pine forests, where visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and fishing against the backdrop of breathtaking rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
Florence
Located in Pinal County, Florence was a bustling center of commerce and government in the Arizona Territory. It retains much of its historic charm today, with well-preserved buildings and landmarks offering an intriguing glimpse into the town’s colorful past. Discover historical escapades at McFarland State Historic Park, which houses the town’s first courthouse and jail. Visitors can tour these historic buildings, dating back to the late 19th century, and learn about Florence’s pivotal role as a hub of law and order.
The Pinal County Historical Museum, housed in a historic courthouse, presents a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents narrating the region's history, from its Native American roots to its mining and ranching zenith. The Tom Mix Memorial pays homage to the iconic silent film star who made Florence his home in the 1920s. Visitors can explore Mix’s contributions to the Western film genre within the beautiful environs of Florence’s historic downtown area.
Show Low
The picturesque town of Show Low in Navajo County boasts a unique origin story for its name, stemming from a high-stakes poker game between two early settlers. The Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area draws outdoor enthusiasts for its variety of recreational activities set against stunning natural backdrops. With boating, fishing, and hiking, the area offers abundant opportunities for visitors to immerse in nature and find tranquility.
The vibrant arts scene in Show Low is embodied by the AAWM Center for the Arts, a hub for creativity and cultural expression, where exhibits and workshops highlight local artists’ talents. Equestrian and rodeo aficionados will find the Linden Valley Arena irresistible, with its array of thrilling rodeo events and horseback riding competitions. From barrel racing to team roping, the arena provides exciting entertainment, capturing the spirit of the Old West in a contemporary setting.
Globe
Nestled among the mountains of Gila County, Globe emerged in the late 19th century as copper mining brought prosperity to the area. The Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park offers a journey through time with the ruins of a Salado Indian pueblo dating back to the 13th century. Here, visitors can explore ancient dwellings and pottery fragments, gaining insight into the Salado people's daily lives and culture.
The historic Gila County Jail, a former territorial jailhouse from the early 20th century, offers a glimpse into the town’s law enforcement history and its infamous inmates. For nature enthusiasts, Round Mountain Park offers a vast outdoor recreation area with hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, presenting opportunities for adventure and relaxation in the stunning desert landscape.
Tombstone
Dubbed “The Town Too Tough To Die,” Tombstone stands as an iconic symbol of the Wild West and is one of Arizona’s most renowned historic towns. Step into the pages of history at the O.K. Corral, the site of the infamous gunfight that epitomizes the Wild West. Visitors can witness live reenactments of the legendary shootout, delve into the events leading up to the confrontation, and explore exhibits on the Earp brothers, Doc Holliday, and the gunfighters' legacy.
The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park offers a glimpse into more history with exhibits on frontier justice, mining, and the town’s role in Arizona’s development. Additionally, guests can admire one of the world’s largest rose bushes at the Rose Tree Museum, which houses the “Lady Banksia Rose,” thriving in Tombstone for over a century. The Outlaw Zipline provides an adrenaline-filled attraction that combines history with high-flying excitement, offering a unique perspective on the Old West.
Jerome
Perched precariously on the side of Cleopatra Hill, Jerome, Arizona, boasts a storied past and a ghostly reputation. Witness the peculiar phenomenon of Jerome’s sliding jail, a historic structure that has gradually moved down the hill due to land subsidence. Visitors can view the jail’s exterior, uncover its unique history, and explore the mysteries of this architectural marvel.
Audrey Headframe Park celebrates the town’s mining heritage, featuring a towering headframe from the United Verde Extension Mine. Here, visitors can delve into the town’s mining past, enjoy interpretive exhibits, and take in panoramic views of Jerome and the Verde Valley. The Gold King Mine and Ghost Town allow guests to step back in time, exploring a recreated Old West town, historic buildings, mining equipment, and even interact with the friendly resident burros and goats.
Camp Verde
Inhabited for centuries, Verde Valley’s Camp Verde showcases evidence of ancient Native American cultures dating back millennia. The Out of Africa Wildlife Park offers a safari adventure where visitors can encounter exotic animals from around the globe, including majestic lions, towering giraffes, playful primates, and slithering reptiles. The park features immersive wildlife encounters, educational presentations, and thrilling safari tours.
Montezuma Castle National Monument reveals the ingenuity and resilience of the Sinagua people who lived in the area over 600 years ago through ancient cliff dwellings. The Verde Ranch RV Resort caters to outdoor enthusiasts with modern amenities, scenic RV sites, and access to hiking and birdwatching. Fort Verde State Historic Park preserves the remnants of a 19th-century military fort, offering guided tours and living history demonstrations to illuminate the fort’s role in protecting settlers.
Ajo
Ajo, a captivating town in southwestern Arizona, is immersed in a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Discover Ajo’s past at the Ajo Historical Society Museum, nestled within the town's old mission. This museum is filled with photographs and exhibits that trace Ajo’s evolution from its early mining days to the present, offering insights into the town's cultural heritage and development.
Experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Here, guests can engage with interactive exhibits that spotlight the region’s flora and fauna, including the iconic organ pipe cactus. A stroll through Ajo Plaza offers visitors picturesque views of its charming Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The Plaza is home to delightful restaurants like Agave Grill and Tacos El Tarasco, set within colorful adobe buildings that contribute to a relaxed atmosphere.
Tubac
Tubac, one of Arizona’s oldest European settlements, dates back to 1752 when it was established as a Spanish presidio, or military outpost. Today, the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park serves as a focal point for both residents and visitors eager to explore remnants of Arizona’s first European settlement. The park features exhibits and an outdoor interpretive trail that highlight Tubac’s Spanish colonial history, military heritage, and cultural significance.
Embrace your creativity at Clay Hands, a pottery gallery where visitors can engage in pottery making and ceramic arts. Whether sculpting clay or painting pottery, guests have the opportunity to express their artistic talents and create unique souvenirs to remember their visit. Explore the eclectic mix of art galleries lining Tubac’s charming streets, including Art Gallery H, where an array of paintings, sculptures, and jewelry by local and regional artists awaits discovery.
Seligman
Affectionately known as the “Birthplace of Historic Route 66,” Seligman holds a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking a nostalgic journey along the iconic Mother Road. The Historic Angel’s Barber Shop Museum stands as a quirky roadside attraction that celebrates Seligman’s Route 66 heritage. Boasting an impressive collection of memorabilia, vintage barber equipment, and Route 66 artifacts, this iconic spot offers a window into the town’s past and the golden age of American roadside culture.
Experience the enchantment of Route 66 as it meanders through Seligman, providing a nostalgic passage through America’s motoring history. Visitors are invited to wander along the town’s main street, adorned with colorful murals and classic cars that capture the essence of open roads and the spirit of the American West. Don’t miss a photo opportunity at the iconic Route 66 Shield on Crookton Road, a historical marker that epitomizes Seligman’s ties to the legendary highway.
Final Thoughts
These oldest-founded towns in Arizona, United States, stand as living testaments to the state’s enduring spirit and resilience, safeguarding the traditions, customs, and landmarks that have molded Arizona’s identity over the centuries. As travelers explore the historic streets and landmarks, they are transported back in time, connecting with the people, places, and stories that have left an indelible imprint on Arizona’s landscape.
From the ancient allure of Wickenburg to the vibrant streets of Seligman, each town narrates a distinct chapter of Arizona’s past, showcasing the enduring legacy of indigenous peoples, Spanish explorers, and pioneer settlers. Whether in search of adventure, history, or a journey into the past, Arizona’s oldest-founded towns offer an enriching and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
