8 Small Towns in Arizona to Visit for a Weekend Getaway
Arizona weekend magic thrives in towns that still feel like movie sets built by geology and history. In Cave Creek, hitching posts and neon signs share the dusty street, and Friday night bull riding turns dinner into a loud hometown show. Up in Williams, Route 66 hums past souvenir storefronts while the Grand Canyon Railway whistles like a time machine, pulling riders toward pine-scented high country.
The eye-opener is the altitude shuffle, within a single state you can trade cactus-studded desert air for cool mountain evenings quickly enough to surprise your skin. So, pack light, bring appetite, and let the road do the planning in Arizonas best towns for a weekend retreat!
Cave Creek
A weekend getaway to Cave Creek, Arizona is more than a fun-filled excursion, it’s also a trip back in time to the Wild West. Known for its cowboy heritage, stunning desert parks, and active entertainment scene, there’s always something to do in Cave Creek. Settle in for the weekend at the Villas of Cave Creek which features a pool, arcade room, free Wi-Fi, and picturesque desert views. Next, spend time exploring Frontier Town where the Old West is alive and thriving. Here, visitors can see an old Boot Hill cemetery, enjoy a range of events, and browse for unique gifts in the Western-themed shops.
Those looking for dinner and a show should head over to The Buffalo Chip Saloon where patrons can enjoy delicious Texas-style BBQ and live Bull Riding on Friday nights. For the outdoor lovers, a visit to Cave Creek Regional Park is a must. The park boasts 11 miles worth of hiking trails and is an ideal spot for activities including camping, stargazing, and picnicking. Similarly, Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area offers many of the same activities and is also worth a visit. For anyone looking to dive into the town's history, be sure to stop by the Cave Creek Museum as well.
Williams
A little further North of Cave Creek, travelers will find the activity-packed town of Williams, Arizona. Often referred to as “The Gateway to the Grand Canyon '' it is no surprise that this small town sees ample amounts of tourists each year. Those visiting Williams for the first time should plan to stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. The hotel offers easy access to the town's main attractions and is the home base for scenic railway tours of The Grand Canyon. Outdoor and animal lovers will have a blast at places such as the Grand Canyon Deer Farm and Bearizona-a drive-through wildlife park where visitors can admire bears and other animals in their natural habitat.
For hiking, biking, and picnicking opportunities, head over to the Williams Ranger District of Kaibab National Forest. Williams also offers easy access to the famous Route 66-a perfect area to explore for any history buffs in your group. If traveling with kids then a visit to Canyon Coaster Adventure Park is a must.
Sedona
Sedona, Arizona is the perfect spot for anyone looking to unwind and reset. From sipping drinks at local wineries to hiking through the red sandstone that Sedona is famous for, travelers will have no trouble setting their minds at ease in this unique desert town. Start things off right with a rejuvenating getaway at The Red Agave Adventure Resort. Here, guests will have incredible views of red rock formations and access to on-site amenities including private trailhead access, firepits, swimming pools, and hot tubs. After settling into the resort, spend some time with wildlife at Red Rock State Park. The 286-acre nature preserve features hiking trails, meadows, creeks, and plenty of cute animals.
Or for something mildly challenging but abundantly beautiful, take a hike at the nearby Devil’s Bridge Trail-a 1.8-mile loop which leads to the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. Another beautiful place worth visiting is the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park where travelers can admire Stupas and other Buddhist architecture. Vino lovers will want to book with Wine Tours of Sedona for a private, curated tour of local wineries.
Camp Verde
About 30 miles from Sedona, travelers can visit the peaceful town of Camp Verde, Arizona. Located in the vibrant Verde Valley, this town offers numerous outdoor activities and scenic rivers. A key attraction is the Out of Africa Wildlife Park, where visitors can go on safari tours, feed animals, enjoy zipline rides, and watch special shows. For those interested in history, the Montezuma Castle is a renowned archaeological site dating back to AD 1100. Additionally, Fort Verde State Historic Park showcases the town’s Indian Wars history. Visitors staying a few days can stay at Cliff Casino Hotel, which features options such as gambling, arcades, and bowling on site.
Page
Nestled along the Colorado River near the Arizona-Utah border, the small town of Page, Arizona, serves as a perfect basecamp. It’s conveniently close to natural sights like Lake Powell and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Despite its size, Page offers numerous outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy a 1.5-mile hike around Horseshoe Bend, which provides spectacular views of one of Arizona’s most famous landmarks. Touring Waterhole Canyon or Antelope Canyon is also highly recommended when in town. For accommodations, a variety of campsites and hotels, including well-known chains like Holiday Inn, are available.
Patagonia
Calling all bird watchers! Located next to towering mountains and a popular avian migratory path, Patagonia, Arizona is an ideal spot to sit back, relax, and watch hundreds of different bird species soar by. Two of the best areas in town for birders include Sonoita Creek Natural Area and Patagonia Lake State Park-both of which also offer hiking trails and an abundance of natural beauty to soak up.
For an educational-focused birding excursion, please visit the Paton Center for Hummingbirds, where over 252 bird species have been documented. It is important to recognize that there is more to this town than its avian inhabitants. You can enjoy an afternoon of shopping for local products at the Patagonia Trading Post, where the shop owner’s cat Oreo is always available for petting. Alternatively, visit the Patagonia Museum, a former one-room schoolhouse rich in history. Those seeking a distinctive lodging experience in town should consider the Stage Stop Inn, a historic boutique hotel that offers guests the sensation of traveling back in time to the Old West.
Pine and Strawberry
Pine, Arizona, and its sister town, Strawberry, Arizona, are abundant with engaging family activities, expansive lavender farms, and natural attractions, making them both excellent destinations for a tranquil weekend retreat. Establish your base at The Strawberry Inn — a boutique hotel that also provides Airstreams and cabins, conveniently situated near local hiking trails. For those interested in hiking, experienced hikers may wish to explore the challenging Bob Bear Trail, which meanders through the Tonto National Forest. Subsequently, proceed to the trails at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, where visitors can discover the natural bridge, a viewpoint, and a waterfall along the route. For a similarly picturesque but less strenuous excursion, consider visiting the Pine Creek Canyon Lavender Farm. During weekends, tourists can explore the Pine-Strawberry Farmers Market, which offers a variety of local products.
The small towns in Arizona all have something unique to offer, but one thing remains the same: travelers are sure to have a fun and memorable experience, no matter which town they end up in. Between the intriguing rock formations and stunning desert landscapes, natural beauty is in no short supply here. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or historic outings, find it all in Arizona.
