These Towns In Arizona Come Alive In Winter
If you're undecided as to what type of weather you want to experience this winter or just want a chance to sample a bit of everything, put Arizona at the top of your "must-visit" list. This southwestern state offers a bit of everything, from luxurious ski resorts in the northern region to a warm and sunny desert climate in the south. Arizona also has an expensive and diverse topography, boasting canyons and mountains ideal for year-round exploration. The state is also home to many small, charming towns that come alive each winter.
Sedona
With a population of just about 10,000, the fascinating town of Sedona is a hotspot for winter travelers. Sedona's red rock mesas, lush Ponderosa pine forests, cliffs, and valleys make it a mecca for artists and spiritualists seeking creative inspiration, as well as people craving a peaceful getaway. Sedona is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts with its miles of hiking trails, forests, eye-catching red rock formations, and mild winter weather. The unique town is known for its vibrant art scene, and the Sedona Arts Center, with its rotating exhibits, workshops, and treasure-filled gallery, is the perfect place to take it in. Sedona is surrounded by almost 2 million acres of national forest and two state parks, including the famous Red Rock State Park. The natural attraction offers daily guided hikes and a 5-mile family-friendly trail system that winds through scenic vistas and greenery.
Bisbee
The quaint mountainside town of Bisbee is known for its rich mining history and is home to the famous Copper Queen Mine, which is 1,500 feet underground. Bisbee's bustling downtown is steeped with arts and culture, treating visitors to art galleries and studios, unique shops and boutiques, and scenic mountain views. Now considered a "hippie haven," the small town comes to life during the winter months, featuring a moderate climate with typical daytime high temperatures near 50 degrees, plenty of sunshine, and festive holiday events. Because of its high elevation of over 5000 feet, winter nights can be chilly. Tourists can check out the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum to learn local lore or go shopping at the Miners and Merchants Antique Center for the perfect Christmas gift. The Old Bisbee Brewing Company is the ideal place to relax with a craft beer after a day of exploring. Each November, the town hosts the Sidepony Express Music Fest and the Mariachi Festival.
Cottonwood
Cottonwood is nestled in the heart of Arizona's wine country and is surrounded by scenic red rocks. The charming town also experiences the ideal winter climate as it's situated above the hot desert and below the state's chilly high country. December is the town's coldest month, with lows in the 30s. About an hour from Phoenix, Cottonwood features a bustling downtown filled with more than 60 shops, ideal for holiday shopping. Visitors can spend winter days wine tasting, exploring a unique collection of art boutiques and galleries, and taking in all that the Old Town Center for the Arts has to offer. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home in Cottonwood, which boasts the Dead Horse Ranch State Park. With average daily temperatures near 50 degrees, winter is the ideal time for a brisk hike through the park. The state landmark features miles of meandering trails for biking, hiking, ATV riding, and bird watching. Cottonwood rings in the new year with a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration each winter.
Prescott
The charming town of Prescott's moderate winter weather draws in visitors from all over. At an elevation of 5,200 feet, Prescott is the ideal escape for both nature and history lovers alike. Surrounded by giant granite boulders, ponderosa pine forests, mountains, and lakes, Prescott beckons to hikers, bikers, and anyone wanting to immerse themselves in wild and scenic Arizona. The town is known for its authentic cowboy history, and tourists can meander down Whiskey Row and warm up in historic bars and saloons, art galleries, charming boutiques, and eateries on chilly winter days. The Smoki Museum showcases artifacts from indigenous Southwest Native American cultures, while the Phippen Museum displays American West Cowboy art. Every December, Prescott treats visitors and locals alike to the Winter Spectacular, which celebrates the enchantment of the holiday season with free activities, live performances, and the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree.
Page
Surrounded by Lake Powell, the Colorado River, and Antelope Canyon, scenic Page is truly in the center of everything. Located close to the Utah border, the quaint town typically experiences a cool winter season for travelers wanting to experience chillier temperatures. Although you won't find snow on the ground, the brisk air will be ideal for a daytime hike or other outdoor adventures. Winter is the perfect time to explore the famous Horseshoe Bend, which is located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and treats travelers to breathtaking views of the Colorado River below. Another natural attraction that makes Page one of Arizona's top towns to visit is The Wave, an iconic sandstone formation featuring unique ribbon-lake wave patterns. On colder days, the Powell Museum and Archives offers visitors the chance to warm up while learning about local history. Each late November, Page welcomes the holiday season with its Christmas in the Park event, which features a festive parade.
Tombstone
Steeped in the history and folklore of America's "Wild West," the quaint yet lively town of Tombstone beckons visitors from all over the year. Situated in the desert in the southern region of Arizona, Tombstone features mild winters, ideal for exploring the town's historic boardwalks, saloons, and other perfectly preserved attractions. Winter daytime temperatures typically reach 60 degrees, so you'll be comfortable participating in most outdoor activities. Stagecoaches are available to transport tourists around town, and you can purchase everything from period clothing and spurs and saddles downtown. Experience historical reenactments and gunfight shows, and take in local history at the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park or the Tombstone Western Heritage Museum. Every February, the town hosts the Tombstone Vigilante Days, showcasing historic Wild West reenactments.
Williams
Although it has a population of just over 3,000, the charming town of Williams is big on adventure and small-town nostalgia. Known as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon," Williams is located in Arizona's high country along historic Route 66. The Grand Canyon Railway runs through town and takes train lovers on a ride through the region. Winter visitors can find the perfect holiday gift at one of Williams' one-of-a-kind shops, many of which are housed in historic buildings and offer unique memorabilia. During the cool winter months, stay cozy while learning about local lore at the Route 66 Museum, or get close to nature at the Bearizona Wildlife Park, which features bears, wolves, and bison, among other animals. Each late November, downtown Williams transforms into Santaland, a winter wonderland featuring family-friendly activities, a parade, and a tree-lighting ceremony.
Whether you want to experience the cooler temperatures of high country amid the mountains or stay warm and dry in the deserts in the southern region of the state, you'll find everything in Arizona. From authentic "Wild West" experiences to deep canyon or pine forest hikes, it's all available during the winter months. These must-see small towns will give you a warm welcome, as well as plenty of opportunities for both indoor and outdoor adventures, all season long.
