7 Top-Rated Small Towns In Arizona
The southwestern state of Arizona has one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities, Phoenix, as well as one of its most unforgettable natural features, the Grand Canyon. That said, Arizona is full of fantastic small towns that are definitely worth visiting, along with the more famous tourist draws. To help plan your first (or next) exploration of Arizona, check out these seven highly-rated small towns that should be on your itinerary.
Bisbee
The town of Bisbee sits only 11 miles from the border with Mexico in southeastern Arizona and started out in the 1880s as a mining town. The copper, gold, and silver mines went quiet by the 1970s, but Bisbee successfully transformed itself into a heritage tourism destination. After visiting the Bisbee Mining Museum and taking the Queen Mine Tour, walk through Bisbee’s historic downtown area to admire the distinctive mix of Victorian and Art Deco architecture and explore its bars and restaurants. The town’s lively music scene is highlighted by the Bisbee Blues Festival each September.
Jerome
The central Arizona community of Jerome overlooks the Verde Valley from its perch atop Cleopatra Hill at an elevation of more than 5,000 feet. Once a booming mining town with a population of around 10,000 a century ago, Jerome, now with fewer than 500 residents, epitomizes the old west ghost town. The town has survived by making the most of its ghost town status, encouraging visitors to check out supposedly haunted sites such as the Jerome Grand Hotel. After taking the Haunted Jerome Tour, stop at the Clinkscale or one of the town’s other restaurants or bars.
Page
First established in the 1950s as a housing community for the workers building the Glen Canyon Dam in far northern Arizona, the town of Page now serves as a gateway to both Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Page is also a popular jumping-off point for tours of the stunning Antelope Canyon, which the Navajo Nation opened to tourism in 1997. While you will spend most of your time exploring the natural wonders outside of town, also check out Page highlights like the Powell Museum and Big John’s Texas BBQ.
Prescott
Prescott’s population has more than doubled (to around 45,000) since 1980, but it still has a unique small-town feel that combines wild west ruggedness with Victorian-era elegance. Prescott was Arizona’s territorial capital two different times before 1890, and its town square is punctuated by the 1916 Yavapai County Courthouse and numerous Victorian-style buildings. Several charming cafes, such as Bistro St. Michael, line the square, along with western wear outfitters—which is appropriate since Prescott is home to the world’s longest-running rodeo, held each year in July since 1888.
Sedona
Sedona is famous for its “red rocks”—a wide array of sandstone formations that showcase amazing shades of reds and oranges, especially at sunrise and sunset. The town’s main commercial district along Route 89A often gets congested with travelers visiting its strip malls, so opt instead for the more authentic Tlaquepaque shopping complex nearby. Sedona is very popular among New Age enthusiasts, many of whom believe that multiple “spiritual vortices” converge in the area. Shopping for healing crystals can be fun no matter your beliefs, but Sedona’s real showcase is, as always, its iconic red rocks.
Tombstone
If you are looking for a completely authentic old-west experience, Tombstone may no longer be the place for you. The town has fully embraced its role as the site of the infamous 1881 Gunfight at the OK Corral, with costumed actors portraying Wyatt Earp and the other participants in a daily re-enactment of the 30-second shootout. However, Tombstone’s kitschy “Wild West” vibe can be a lot of fun! Walk the dirt streets, steer clear of the horse-drawn carriages, and stop by one of the many saloons (such as Big Nose Kate’s).
Williams
If you have ever dreamed of cruising along Route 66, the historic highway that connects Chicago to Southern California, Williams is the kind of small town you can imagine stopping in along the way. Explore the many motels and diners and feel yourself being transported back to the mid-twentieth century. Williams also serves as a gateway to the Grand Canyon, which is only about 50 miles to the north. Instead of driving, enjoy the scenery on the classic Grand Canyon Railway, which makes daily trips from Williams to the canyon’s South Rim.
Arizona is nicknamed the Grand Canyon State for good reason—that natural wonder of the world is an absolute must-see when you visit the state. But be sure to leave yourself time to explore some of Arizona’s distinctive small towns during your stay. In addition to the natural beauty all around, you will get fun tastes of the old west mixed with modern flair. So pack your bags for a grand trip to small-town Arizona today!
