9 Quirkiest Arizona Towns You Didn't Know Existed

Arizona is a state of unforgiving landscapes. It embodies the wild west as well as any state in the country. It also happens to be one of the fastest-growing states in America, but among the booming big cities are small, quirky towns dotted throughout this desert land.

Plenty of these smaller towns offer unexpected landscapes, like lush national forests, or unique activities such as visiting a wolf sanctuary. Forget everything you thought you knew about the Grand Canyon State, and free up your opportunities for these quirky towns.

Globe

The first quirky Arizona town on the list is Globe. Located in the middle of Tonto National Forest in central Arizona, it has 7,249 residents as of the 2020 census. Known as an old mining town, Globe has remnants of its past and present when you visit the Old Dominion Mine, a historical park celebrating its history. Outstanding nature options are all around Globe, as the Pinal Mountain Trails are accessible from town, which cannot be missed for hiking.

In town, you can visit the historic "Stairizona Trails" that offer unique hikes that showcase a mix of rich art and memorable neighborhoods. If spooky entertainment is more your thing, the historic Gila County Jail offers ghost hunting adventures to try to communicate with Globe's seedy past.

Corona de Tucson, Arizona

Next on the list is a southern Arizona town located not too far from Tucson, Corona de Tucson. This rapidly growing area is a census-designated place that has grown rapidly from under 1,000 residents in 2000 to almost 10,000 residents according to the 2020 census.

Outdoor adventure is a staple of Corona de Tucson, because it sits in the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains and has the Sycamore Canyon on the southern edge of town that leads to great hiking trails. In the mood for shopping? Feel free to visit unique businesses like the UScream ice cream truck or the Old Pueblo Soapery to stay smelling fresh in the dry Arizona desert.

Catalina, Arizona

Heading just north of Tucson, lies the town of Catalina with around 7,000 residents. While this suburb of Tucson is small, it has its share of snowbirds who join the area during the winter months, but leave in the summer. Resting at the foothills of the Catalina Mountains and Catalina State Park, this small town is an outdoor enthusiast's playground.

Head into Catalina State Park to enjoy 5,500 acres of hiking and camping. Included near the park is the popular Sutherland Trail to the southeast of town. There isn't a shortage of arts and culture in the area, since you can check out live shows at the DesertView Performing Arts Center, or if you need relaxation, take advantage of the Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa.

Snowflake, Arizona

When you think of Arizona, the desert probably comes to mind almost immediately. What one doesn't think of is a snowflake. But, if you venture to the eastern part of the state, you'll come across Snowflake, Arizona, a town of 6,104 according to the 2020 census. With a rich history of Mormon influence throughout Snowflake, there is eye-catching architecture to visit, including the Snowflake Arizona Temple.

Taking advantage of the beautiful southwest landscape is another reason to visit this unique town. Enjoy hiking Four Mile Knoll for the exercise and scenery. There is also the Snowflake outdoor bicycle course, which will test your skills on two wheels. Back on Main Street in Snowflake, you can see the Snowflake Monument.

Lake Montezuma, Arizona

The next stop on the list sits in the middle of Arizona, Lake Montezuma. According to the 2020 census, Lake Montezuma is home to 4,6200 year-round residents. In the heart of town, stop by Sycamore Park to enjoy relaxation and nature. Sitting on the northeast side of town, you can visit the Montezuma Well, which is an archaeological site that has ancient cliff dwellings and a sinkhole with a natural spring. But that's not the only historical landmark. If you venture to the southwest portion of Lake Montezuma, you'll find the Montezuma Castle National Monument, which has cliff dwelling ruins from the 12th century.

While the Arizona desert and wolves don't mix, you can stop at the Sedona Wolf Sanctuary right outside of town to see nature, which is not accustomed to the southwest.

Quartzsite, Arizona

Arizona is a popular state for snowbirds, and this next town embodies that popularity perfectly. Quartzsite, located near the California border, is a small town of 2,413 people according to the 2020 census. However, this area is known for its fluctuating population due to its snowbird population. The area is home to ten different RV Parks for its temporary annual residents.

The Arizona Peace Trail is a popular off-roading area, or spend a day hiking at Cholla Canyon or Lion Rock. If you're around in January, there is a popular van-dweller gathering called the Rubber Tramp Rendezvous. The town is also home to major gem and mineral shows and swap meet shows that attract over a million people each year, mostly in January and February.

Mohave Valley, Arizona

Mohave Valley is a small community in the northwest corner of the state, bordering both California and Nevada. Although the town has a small population of 2,585 as of the 2020 census, there is no shortage of entertainment variety in Mohave Valley. On the hotter days in the desert, you can test your luck at the Spirit Mountain Casino.

There are numerous opportunities to take in memorable views of this vast southwestern landscape, such as visiting the Mohave Valley Scenic View or the scenic overlook by the Vertical Mine #12 hiking trail. Hit the link at the Los Lagos Golf Club on the north end of town.

Picture Rocks, Arizona

Located as a northwest suburb of Tucson, Picture Rocks is a peculiar name for a town, but this quirky name embodies everything about the area. The only thing separating Picture Rocks from Tucson is the Saguaro National Park West, which has hiking options with beautiful views, including the historical landmark, Signal Hill. While visiting the park, you can also stop by the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to see live animal exhibits and botanical gardens. Just south of Picture Rocks, you can stop and visit the Ironwood National Monument.

When you think of quirky, the Ghost Ranch Exotics and Funny Foot Farm is tough to beat. Check out capybara, emus, water buffalo, and other exotic animals.

Clarkdale, Arizona

In the heart of Verde Valley, in central Arizona, is Clarkdale, a town of 4,419 residents according to a 2021 census. This unique town boasts plenty of historical homes that have kept their charm or been renovated, along with a small town that has blended into the 21st century. When it comes to its past, Clarkdale offers the Arizona Copper Art Museum, which has copper artifacts to view. You can also visit the Tuzigoot National Monument, which is the ruins of an ancient Sinagua Indian Pueblo, sitting high on a hilltop.

For more modern activities, head north of town to the Chateau Tumbleweed Winery and Tasting Room to taste some of the area's unique flavors. Also, why not take advantage of the Verde Canyon Railroad, which offers extraordinary views of the countryside and wildlife.

Arizona is a state that has more than meets the eye. While the Grand Canyon is a natural wonder of the world, there are under-the-radar activities in these small, quirky towns that can make your next trip memorable.

Allow yourself the opportunity to take a train ride outside of Clarkdale, go to a van-dweller gathering in Quartzsite, or go on ghost-hunting adventures in Globe. You can even find yourself in a puzzling contradiction when you travel through Snowflake, Arizona. Whatever you decide, be sure to embrace the unknown and unique that these towns offer.