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Arizona is tucked on the US border between California, Nevada, Utah and New Mexico, making it a convergence of many fascinating cultures and histories. The towns there range from ex-mining hubs to rural valley paradises, ensuring that the Grand Canyon State has so many different ways to woo you into a visit.

Bisbee

Historical Landmark

Beautiful view of Bisbee, Arizona
Drew Dempsey / Unsplash

Established in 1880, Bisbee is a charming town with a mining history in Southern Arizona. The area once known as the Queen of the Copper Camps is home to a lovely community among the Mule Mountains, popular with artists and retirees. Neighborhoods with Victorian and European-style homes rest on the hillsides, while many unique shops, art galleries, and cafés reside in former saloons. Attractions sure to interest include the Queen Mine Tour, which explores a former copper mine. Then there’s the Old Bisbee Ghost Tour, which takes paranormal enthusiasts to the most haunted spots around.

Cave Creek

Historical Landmark

Hiking in Cave Creek, Arizona
Billy Cox / Unsplash

Cave Creek is a scenic town not far from Phoenix; even though it’s close to that metropolis, it has never lost that Old West charm. The town offers a taste of the past through Frontier Town, a replica of an Old West town. The surrounding landscape gives outdoor adventurers a host of recreational opportunities from hiking to horseback riding. Meanwhile, the Spur Cross Conservation Area is a place nature lovers won’t want to miss.

Jerome

Historical Landmark

Church on a hill in Jerome, AZ, USA
Strange Happenings / Unsplash

Jerome is a former mining town – not to mention a charming National Historic Landmark. Meandering around the streets, you’ll discover galleries and art studios in an area is brimming with creativity. It also offers history buffs a wealth of experience through the Mine Museum, displaying artifacts representing the town past and present. The Jerome State Historic Park, home to the Douglas Mansion, is now a museum.

Globe

Architectural Landmark

Center of the Arts, Globe, AZ, USA
Strange Happenings / Unsplash

In the heart of Southern Arizona sits the former mining camp known as Globe. Founded in 1876 and incorporated in 1907, this lovely town is brimming with century-old buildings, cottages and hillside houses. The historic downtown area is perfect for leisurely strolls and shopping for antiques, while the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts is a great spot to explore and experience the talent of some incredible artists. Other areas of interest include the Besh-ba-Gowah Archeological Park, which features stunning ruins of a Salado pueblo, along with an accompanying museum.

Greer

Historical Landmark

Greer, AZ, USA
Thomas Dewey / Unsplash

Located high in the White Mountains in Eastern Arizona near the New Mexico border, Greer is a picturesque mountain valley which is a true paradise for outdoor lovers. With four distinct seasons, this is a true year-round destination for adventures in beautiful surroundings. From forests to the Little Colorado River, lakes to local wildlife, the area is not only great for hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing, but also a prime location for budding or professional photographers wanting to capture a wide range of material. As for culture lovers, the Butterfly Lodge Museum, which is on the National Register Of Historic Places, is a must-visit with its displays of original furnishings and artefacts.

Prescott

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Watson Lake, Prescott, AZ, USA
Nicole Geri / Unsplash

Prescott is set among a gorgeous landscape that makes it a great place for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike. With everything from granite mountains to ponderosa pine forests and lakes, recreational activities include hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking. Head into town to experience a host of cultural highlights, including the Phippen Museum, a space specializing in western art. Another must-visit destination is Whiskey Row, which used to be home to more than 40 saloons; it’s now a vibrant downtown area brimming with restaurants and other cultural delights.

Sedona

Architectural Landmark, Natural Feature

Sedona, AZ, USA
Taylor Keeran / Unsplash
Sedona is another Northern Arizona stunner. Millions of people flock here annually for the breathtaking scenery, which includes the magnificent Red Rock State Park. The alluring landscape makes it an ideal location for artists who seek inspiration, from Native American to modern pieces. There’s also no shortage of outdoor activities waiting to be discovered, like hiking and kayaking.

Tombstone

Historical Landmark

Tombstone, AZ, USA
Kevin Dunlap / Unsplash

Once a small city with a mining heyday, Tombstone is now a National Historic Landmark District. It contains many preserved buildings from the 1870s and ’80s, making it a wonderful destination for anyone interested in the Old Wild West. Visit the infamous O.K. Corral to see reenactments of famous gunfights. Alternatively, head to the Bird Cage Theater, which once doubled as a saloon, gambling hall and brothel. With such a rich history, it’s no wonder that Tombstone also attracts ghost hunters: it’s believed to be one of the most haunted places on the planet.

Tubac

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Tubac, AZ, USA
John Nupp / Unsplash

The Tubac motto is that it’s “where art and history meet.” Inhabited for 11,000 years before being established as a Spanish Presidio in 1752, the area is steeped in history, which can be explored in Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. The park features a museum along with historic adobe buildings, including the Otero Hall, an original school buildings. Tubac is also a popular art town; sites like the Tubac Center Of The Arts provide incredible exhibitions and host events. With natural and cultural beauty everywhere, it’s a village that will interest and delight all kinds of people.

Winslow

Historical Landmark

Located on the Historic Route 66, Winslow is a must-see. The scenery is stunning, since the town is situated on the high desert plains of the Little Colorado River Valley. Equally charming is a historic downtown, perfect for strolling and discovering the local past. Other essential places include the Standin’ on the Corner Park. The park pays homage to the hit Eagles song, Take It Easy (the lyrics include the line, “Standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona”). Also try La Poseda Hotel; although it’s been in danger of being demolished several times, it’s undergone major renovations. It now features beautiful gardens and stunning art.

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