10 Underrated Arizona Towns That Deserve A Second Look
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Monica Spencer
Author
When driving from one place to the next, I think most of us have a tendency to try to get to our destination as quickly as possible. It’s something we’re all guilty of because we also miss out on visiting some really cool little towns along the way. Today, we’re going to take a look at a handful of Arizona towns that are worth a detour or even a day trip. Check them out!
The first town on our list also happens to be one that we featured in a recent article. Ajo is a bit out of the way, sitting between Gila Bend and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, but that didn’t stop it from being named the Best Southwestern Small Town in USA Today. The little town has become an art destination and is home to some very lovely views.
This is another small town that requires a bit of a drive from the highway but it’s a pretty cool little place. You’ll find some lovely desert riparian areas surrounding the town, including the Arivaca Cienega and Buenos Aires Wildlife Refuge, plus a cool saloon that dates back 100 years.
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If you’re traveling along Interstate 10 between New Mexico and Tucson, you’ll likely drive through this little town. Definitely plan a stop here! You’ll find a museum dedicated to local history, art galleries, and some awesome restaurants.
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This desert town sits just off Route 93 and is home to some pretty unique sights! You’ll find a tourist ghost town called Cyanide Springs sitting in the middle of town, junkyard art adorning yards, and the famous Roy Purcell murals in the foothills of the Cerbat Mountains.
Isolated from the rest of Arizona by the Grand Canyon, this is one of several towns along the Arizona Strip. You’ll see some fantastic landscapes surrounding the town—such as Vermilion Cliffs National Monument to the east—and that means plenty of fun outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing. Nearby you’ll also find the Pipe Spring National Monument that preserves some history of the area and the delicious Juniper Ridge Restaurant is a great place to grab a meal.
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Located near Arizona’s "West Coast," Quartzsite is home to an annual Gem and Mineral Show that is simply huge and large flea markets. If shopping isn’t your thing, check out some of the historic sites here or some of the trails nearby.
This tiny town is located on the U.S.-Mexico border and not too far from Arivaca. The desert town is quite pretty as it’s surrounded by mountains, the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, and some incredible historic buildings that date to the 1700s! If you’re planning a stay here, check out the Rancho de la Osa Guest Ranch.
Sitting along Route 66, this small town is worth a stop for the nostalgia factor. Check out the Historic Route 66 General Store and grab a bite to eat at one of the well-known restaurants along the Mother Road, like Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In.
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This little town sits along Route 93 and its claim to fame is a rocket sitting just off the highway with Snoopy, his cousin Spike, and Woodstock seated on top. However, you can also check out the local trading post and tasty restaurants like Luchia’s and Cool Water Cafe.
This small town sits in the quiet southeastern corner of the state but you might surprised at the number of things you can find here! The town is home to one of the state’s wine regions, has museums dedicated to Rex Allen and Marty Robbins, has a nearby apple orchard, and hosts annual festivals.
Are there any other small towns in Arizona you think are deserving of a second look? Let us know which ones you think a perfect for a day trip!
If you love small towns, you’ll also love reading 10 Reasons Why Small Town Arizona Is Actually The Best Place To Grow Up!
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