6 Arizona Towns That Rival Europe's Best

There is something about European towns that makes them quite delightful to wander through. You can pin it on the narrow, cobblestone streets, on the old, red-brick buildings that have been around for centuries, or on the many cute stores with so much colour and character. Also, whether set along a river, in a landscape of rugged mountaintops, or on the Mediterranean coast, European towns are often more walkable and authentic. Can you find similar spots in Arizona? Start revving your car’s engine. The following are 6 Arizona towns that rival Europe's best.

English Village in Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu City is a postcard town situated on the eastern shore of Lake Havasu, a stunning location set against the majestic grandeur of the Mojave Mountains. It was established in the 1960s and rose to prominence soon after when a businessman purchased the London Bridge and had it reassembled right in town. To further enhance the town's European appeal, an open-air mall was constructed at the northeast corner of London Bridge, mainly due to the efforts of the same individual. Known as the English Village, the buildings featured English-style facades (they still do) and can effortlessly transport you to a historic town along the Thames River, often touted as The Cultural Capital of the World. The London Bridge Resort overlooks Lake Havasu, offering a scenic spot to stay. London Bridge Channel is a beautiful place to take a walk, day or night, and at Christmas time, it is quite a sensory delight, especially with all the lights. There is the Rotary Park, where you can rest or people-watch, and the visitor centre, which offers a wealth of fun photo opportunities and souvenirs.

Bisbee

Bisbee is a quaint town in the Mule Mountains and has been rapidly gaining attention as one of the most creative art towns in the United States. There is a hint of European flair in the town, particularly given its mountainous setting, historic stairways, and thought-provoking street art. Not just that, there is a charming lineup of vintage shops, boutique hotels, and cozy eateries, including the Bisbee Breakfast Club, which serves up decadent omelettes and several other tantalizing options. Artemizia Foundation, a favourite place to stop by, is an international art museum and sculpture garden featuring works by names like Ai Weiwei, Yayoi Kusama, and Jeff Koons. Taking the cue, 55 Main Gallery is packed with contemporary art in various media.

Jerome

You think Arizona is just a low-key version of the Sahara? It's probably because you haven't met Jerome, a central Arizona town whose climate is milder than you think, and which is surrounded by lush pine-speckled forests. With its quirky attractions, Mediterranean climate, rugged setting in the Black Hills, and colorful history, you would be forgiven for thinking you are somewhere in Portugal. Now a National Historic Landmark, the town also serves as an art haven, and places like the Jerome Artists Co-Op, which showcases the styles and landscapes of the Southwest, reflect this. There is the Arizona Copper Art Museum &Gift Store, where you can learn a lot about making copper, and just across the street, the Jerome Art Center, a cool art gallery in an old high school. Crown the day with a visit to the Jerome State Historic Park, a relic of Jerome’s mining heritage.

Tubac

Tubac is traditionally known for its Spanish colonial roots, although its artistic flair is becoming increasingly prominent today. With its art galleries and historic Adobe buildings, it almost resembles a tiny Andalusian town. The Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, which marks the site of the first European settlement in Arizona, is a remarkable piece of history worth exploring. It dates back to the 1750s, a hazy period in the American mind. The Tubac Festival of the Arts, which typically lights up the town in early February, is Southern Arizona’s longest-running art festival. It is ranked 24th nationally by Sunshine Artists. There is the Tubac Center of the Arts, which is identifiable by the sculptures outside, and the K Newby Gallery & Sculpture Garden, which has an impressive collection of southwestern art, kinetic sculptures, statuary, and numerous yard art pieces.

Prescott

Prescott always feels a world away from Arizona's southern desert climate. Perhaps even the rest of the Southwest. The town can transport you to Europe at times, especially with its walkable downtown, tree-shaded plaza, and historic district with a Victorian vibe. Whiskey Row defines the town's entertainment scene, with places like the Palace Restaurant & Saloon delighting almost every nerve and sense, whether sound, feeling, or taste. It is billed as the oldest frontier saloon in Arizona and is one of Whiskey Row's most revered institutions. More than that, you are surrounded by more than 200 miles of mountain biking trails. If you love hiking, Thumb Butte and the Granite Mountain Trail are some excellent options to consider. Although it does not compare to an Alpine lake in Switzerland, Upper Goldwater Lake is beautiful and serene, especially with the shade and fragrance of the majestic Ponderosa Pines.

Cottonwood

Like some wonder spot along the Seine or the Danube, Cottonwood is a charming river town with a well-preserved historic district, delicious craft wines, and beautiful countryside scenery. It can easily pass for a small Tuscan village. The Old Town Center for the Arts, a quaint, authentic space run by dedicated local volunteers, is a community centerpiece. There is also the Clemenceau Heritage Museum, which keeps a delightful diorama with regional trains and buildings. You will also find antique dolls, dollhouses with period furniture, and several other interesting collectibles from that time period. For some excellent French Bistro-style food, DA Vines Vineyard Wines & Bistro is a local favourite. Patrons rave about its fun and friendly atmosphere, as well as its excellent wine flights. That said, the star of the show is Dead Horse Ranch State Park, where you can fish in lagoons, camp, or explore excellent trails.

So, next time you are yearning for some heart-ravishing European flair, you don't have to save up for a trip to the Amalfi Coast. Right here in the Grand Canyon State, you will find small, charming towns that rival Europe's best. Think of narrow, beautiful streets; old, historic buildings; and spectacular backdrops. And the setting is typically to die for, whether craggy mountains, a winding river, or a peaceful countryside.