8 Of The Most Underrated Towns In Arizona
From stunning desert landscapes and world-class national parks to ghost towns and artist havens, Arizona has just about everything tourists tend to look for. While the state is often associated with famous cities like Scottsdale and Phoenix, it has no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the crowded cities and Grand Canyon rims, travelers will encounter bucket-list destinations in the vast countryside, characterized by colorful history, untamed terrain, and creative energy.
From the eccentric stairways of Bisbee to the quiet resilience of Wickenburg, Arizona's most underrated towns offer an intimate glimpse into the state's soul. Expect raw, surprising, and unforgettable experiences when touring these overlooked 2025 destinations in the Grand Canyon State.
Tubac
Art, history, and community converge in this sleepy desert town in southern Arizona, which presents underrated shopping opportunities. Tubac is a haven for artists, and this is reflected in the countless galleries and studios scattered throughout downtown. Art Gallery H offers guests the chance to browse exquisite creations by homegrown artists, providing something unique to spend on. The Tubac Historical Society plays a crucial role in preserving regional history, sharing stories, artifacts, and memorabilia to connect the public with the community's past.
Meanwhile, you catch a glimpse of Tubac in its formative years at the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. The site preserves the ruins of an old Spanish Presidio, central to the history of both Native Americans and Spain in the area. Beyond the modest downtown, guests can try their hand at golf by visiting the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa, which boasts a 27-hole course.
Bisbee
This hidden gem in southeastern Arizona, nestled in the foothills of the Mule Mountains, provides tourists with an intriguing journey into history. The town boasts a walkable historic district with numerous landmarks that offer a glimpse into its mining heyday. This includes the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, where practical artifacts and memorabilia tell the story of copper mining in the region. Additionally, the Muheim Heritage House serves as a portal to 19th-century Bisbee. Built in the late 1800s, it was restored to its original state and offers guests tours.
Meanwhile, taking the Queen Mine Tour is a rare opportunity to explore an actual mine that operated for almost a century and hear interesting mining folklore. After the historical immersion, you can refresh with a pint of craft beer at Old Bisbee Brewing Company.
Globe
Globe is a historic town at the base of the Pinal Mountain and surrounded by the Tonto National Forest. It boasts a unique history steeped in mining and maintains an old town district where the past comes to life. At the Gila County Historical Museum, guests can explore a diverse collection of artifacts dating back to the pioneer days in Globe. Meanwhile, the Old Dominion Historic Mine Park preserves the remains of an old copper mining facility that has been transformed into a mine-themed playground.
Globe's artistic side shows at the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts. This repurposed turn-of-the-century courthouse serves as the region's cultural hub, hosting a range of events, including art exhibitions, music shows, and live theater performances. Lastly, those who want to discover the outdoors can go hiking along desert trails at Round Mountain Park.
Strawberry
On paper, Strawberry looks like any other tiny village where nothing seems to happen, but you have to travel there to discover its hidden treasures. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, the town invites isolated hikes along the Strawberry Trail, which thrusts you into the heart of its dry wilderness. The 10,000-acre Fossil Springs Wilderness is the ultimate escape for seasoned adventurers. Situated within the Coconino National Forest, it supports a variety of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, and mountain biking.
Adventure aside, guests can learn interesting historical lessons at the Strawberry School House. This old one-room school building dates back to the early settler days, when it served as a chapel, learning center, and social hall.
Payson
Fondly referred to as "The Heart of Arizona" for its central position in the state, Payson is one of the most underrated towns in Arizona. It serves as an excellent jumping-off base for anyone seeking adventures in the Rim Country region, offering thrilling kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding fun courtesy of Rim Country Recreation. Those who prefer to sit back and relax can head to the grassy grounds at Green Valley Park, which is ideal for picnics and access to a fishing lake.
Paysom shares its history at the Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin, where guests can explore a 1920s cabin and interactive exhibits that date back to the 19th century. Elsewhere, Sawmill Theatres screens the latest movies on an HD big screen, inviting box office lovers to indulge in their favorite pastime.
Ajo
Ajo is a former mining settlement in southern Arizona, situated within the Sonoran Desert and just under 50 miles from the Mexican border. It is a great stop for anyone interested in the desert's nature, history, and culture, acting as a gateway to the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge. This 860,000-acre ecosystem provides a sanctuary for endangered species of plants and animals, promising vacationers glimpses of mule deer, bighorn sheep, and the endangered Sonoran Pronghorn antelope. Additionally, the Ajo Historical Society Museum offers insight into the region's history, culture, and industry through engaging displays housed within a former train depot.
Meanwhile, those who lean towards the arts can spare an hour or so to tour the Art Under the Arches Fine Art Gallery. This delightful cultural venue exhibits creative works and pieces by over 20 artists and crafters from the region.
Sedona
Sedona's charm lies in its scenic natural surroundings and a rich art scene, which promises vacationers excellent sightseeing and shopping opportunities. The town serves as a popular gateway to Arizona's renowned red rock country, best explored during a drive along the Red Rock Scenic Byway. This easygoing journey rewards road trippers with stunning views of red rock formations, colorful canyons, and scattered forests. Ardent hikers are spoiled for choice at Red Rock State Park. Spanning more than 280 acres, the reserve features miles of deserted trails that stretch past dramatic rock formations, wildlife habitats, and Oak Creek.
But if you crave a change of scenery, you can head indoors for a casual shopping experience at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. Here, you can stake out an eclectic mix of handicrafts, antiques, souvenirs, and cute gift items.
Wickenburg
Wickenburg is a sleepy desert town in Maricopa and Yavapai Counties with a captivating ranching and Western heritage. It was founded in the 1860s and boasts a rich history that comes to life through numerous local landmarks, such as the Jail Tree. This adorable mainstay takes visitors back to the frontier days in Wickenburg and serves as a temporary holding facility for prisoners before their transfer to a more permanent jail. Elsewhere, the Sigler Western Museum showcases the region's Western heritage through a collection of cultural artifacts.
Tourists can skip the downtown limits to access fun outdoor opportunities at the Hassayampa River Preserve. This vast natural space spans approximately 770 acres and features multiple wildlife habitats, hiking trails, and picnic zones.
From the charming mountain refuge of Payson to the rustic, forested serenity of Strawberry, these most underrated towns in Arizona embody the heart of the Grand Canyon State. Each destination in this part of the United States offers great reasons why travelers should start paying them more attention and considering them as their next vacation destination. Whether seeking desert adventures, historical exploration, culinary indulgence, or cultural immersion, there is always something for everyone to look forward to, regardless of their preferences.
