The Best Small Towns in Arizona To Chill Out
The southwestern state of Arizona is home to vibrant communities, breathtaking rock formations, and beautiful deserts. Throughout the diverse environments found in the Grand Canyon State are charming small towns where you can relax and chill out. These small towns offer incredible views of red rocks, historic downtowns that were part of the American frontier, and amazing hiking trails that offer spectacular views of nature. There are also plentiful scenic lakes for fishing, museums perfect for history buffs, and eclectic art communities. From the northern town of Williams to Patagonia in the south and Payson in central Arizona, the entire state offers small towns that are great places to rest and rejuvenate.
Sedona
With its spectacular red rock formations and vortexes, it is no surprise that Sedona is a popular destination for chilling out in nature. Surrounded by 1.8 million acres of forest in the Coconino National Forest, the town offers several hiking trails, mountain biking options, and parks to explore. One of the parks, Red Rock State Park, is a great place to relax and commune with nature. The 286-acre preserve offers hiking, biking, and equestrian trails and views of wildlife along Oak Creek, a tributary of the Verde River. For those who want a unique outdoor experience, you can take a hot air balloon ride and view the beauty of Sedona from above. The town is also a great place for nourishing the self, as Sedona has several spas, retreat centers, and yoga studios. Vita Pura Yoga provides outdoor yoga retreats and sessions in the awe-inspiring Sedona landscape.
Prescott
Known for its historic downtown, art galleries, and outdoor activities, Prescott is the perfect getaway for those looking to relax and unwind. One of the best places to chill out in Prescott is Whiskey Row. The street was the site of several saloons during the Gold Rush era. Today, the street boasts bars, saloons, and several art galleries, which are all great for chilling out. The Weir Gallery features artwork by Scot Weir, while Arts Prescott Galleries showcases pieces by thirty local artists. For those looking to relax in nature, Prescott National Forest surrounds the city and offers great hiking trails, such as Granite Mountain Trail and Lynx Lake Trail. For those looking to chill out in nature, Watson Lake offers beautiful waters for kayaking, boating, and fishing. You can also hike, camp, and enjoy breathtaking nature views at Watson Lake Park.
Payson
Located in central Arizona is Payson, known by locals as "The Heart of Arizona." This quaint town, surrounded by the Tonto National Forest, the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine forest, is the perfect place for relaxing outdoor adventures. Visitors can hike along easy to rugged trails, such as Cypress Trail and the Boulders Loop Trailhead. The East Verde River flows through northern Payson, and nature lovers can enjoy the calming water, a hike, and lunch at the East Verde Picnic Area. For those looking to fish and kayak, a trip to the town’s Green Valley Park is a must. Since the park is in the historic downtown, visitors can also chill out at local restaurants and learn about local history at the Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin.
Patagonia
The quaint town of Patagonia rests in the Santa Cruz River Valley, located just 18 miles north of Mexico. Surrounded by the Coronado National Forest, the town is the perfect place to unwind in nature. The town has several hiking trails, including the Patagonia Train Track Trail. This 2-mile trail loop is along part of an old railbed of the New Mexico and Arizona Railroad. You can also enjoy a more adventurous hike and view wildlife on the Harshaw Road Trailhead, part of the Arizona Trail. Sonoita Creek, a tributary of the Santa Cruz River, flows through the town and offers nature lovers the chance to bird-watch and walk along trails at the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve. For those looking to chill out indoors, you can learn more about the region’s history at the Patagonia Museum or enjoy a delicious meal at Velvet Elvis at La Misión.
Williams
Known as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon," the charming town of Williams is in northern Arizona. With its proximity to the Grand Canyon and location in the Kaibab National Forest, the town offers several ways to chill out outdoors. Visitors can hike along trails at Bill Williams Mountain, named after the town’s founder. Nature enthusiasts can also relax at Cataract Lake County Park by going on a tranquil stroll in nature or fishing at Cataract Lake. For those looking to get in touch with their wild side, Bearizona Wildlife Park provides the chance to view bears, bison, and mountain goats from the comfort of your own car. You can also take a leisurely stroll through the park’s walk-thru area, which features jaguars, grizzly bears, and a petting zoo. For history buffs, the town offers six blocks of historic buildings and shops along historic Route 66.
Clarkdale
Located in the Verde Valley is the charming town of Clarkdale, known for its historic buildings, scenic nature, and cultural attractions. A great way to chill out in Clarkdale is by taking a scenic train tour on the Verde Canyon Railroad. The 4-hour train and 20-mile trip takes riders through beautiful canyons with incredible views of red rocks, ravines, and wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore nature by fishing, kayaking, or swimming in the Verde River. Nearby is the Tuzigoot National Monument, an ancient hilltop pueblo of the Sanaguan indigenous people. Visitors can view the site, walk trails, and explore the Tuzigoot Museum. For those looking to relax in the town’s historic district, Clarkdale Park is a great place to view the surrounding mountains, learn more about the town’s history, and enjoy family-friendly events.
Wickenburg
If you are looking to chill out in a town that was part of the Wild West, Wickenburg is the place to visit. Since the town is known as the "Team Roping Capital of the World," you can watch the Old West in action at several rodeos in Wickenburg. There are also guest ranches in town that are perfect for resting and rejuvenation. These ranches offer horseback rides, campfires, and relaxing outdoor spaces under beautiful Arizona sunsets. Located along the northern edge of the Sonoran Desert, the town is also a great place for nature lovers. A trip to Hassayampa River Preserve provides outdoor enthusiasts the chance to explore trails and view wildlife along the Hassayampa River. Palm Lake is also located in the preserve, which offers a great hiking trail for families.
From exploring ancient ruins to taking a scenic train ride through the canyons or enjoying a scenic stroll in the mountains, these small Arizona towns offer the perfect relaxing getaway. Although each town has its own unique charm, they all provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you are looking to chill out in the desert, explore the largest Ponderosa Pine forest in the world, or explore the history of the Wild West, you will find it in these small Arizona towns.
