So, did you make any resolutions for the new year? One of the things I decided I would like to do is travel a little more often, both here and abroad. If you made a similar goal but want to stay in the state, then you might want to check out the list below for some cities and towns around the state to visit. They are unique, fun, and worth an overnight or weekend trip to really experience the heart of each town. If you want to read more about each town and some of the must-see places or activities there, then be sure to click the title to see a previous article!
1. Bisbee – Best Historic Town
Combing a fascinating history with incredibly preserved buildings, this old mining town in southeast Arizona is a gorgeous place to visit year round. Last year, it was named the best historic town in the country and how could we disagree with that declaration?
2. Flagstaff – Best Day Trip
Looking for the perfect town to plan a day trip no matter the season? Flagstaff is perfect but we especially love this city when the temperatures begin to dip in fall. You can see the leaves change colors, feel the brisk mountain air, do a bit of hiking, and get some incredible food before heading home.
3. Jerome – Best “Ghost” Town
Jerome is a definite must-visit town in Arizona. The former mining and ghost town lives up to its spooky reputation, which you can sense from the slowly decaying buildings and any historical tours you decide to do. You might even spot a ghost when you’re here!
4. Miami – Best Small Town Restaurant
The town’s name might throw you off for a more exotic location but this mining town in Arizona’s copper country has a few surprises up its sleeve. Among those are its renovated downtown area, the antique shops, and the ever famous Guayo’s El Rey Mexican restaurant. Here, you’ll find some of the best food that small town Arizona has to offer. (Don’t forget to visit Globe while you’re in the area!)
5. Oatman – Best Living Ghost Town
Oatman, Arizona almost ended in a fate as many of Arizona mining towns: abandoned and forgotten. However, once the old Route 66 was routed through the town, it managed to survive right into the 21st century. A day trip here (there are no operating hotels in the town) is pretty cool! You get to see all the historic buildings, feed the wild burros that wander into town every day, and grab a bite to eat with Oatie the Ghost at the Oatman Hotel.
6. Prescott – Arizona’s Christmas City
When Christmas rolls around again, you need to spend a weekend in our very own Christmas City! You’ll find the city decorated and activities happening frequently enough that you’ll be wondering whether you mistakenly drove to the North Pole.
7. Sedona – Best City For A Getaway
Sedona has a lot going for it: beautiful vistas, great restaurants, adorable inns, and plenty of retreat opportunities. That makes it the perfect spot to plan a weekend getaway alone or with your sweetie!
8. Strawberry – Best Little Town In Rim Country
Most people tend to drive right through this tiny town but it’s definitely worth a stop! In addition to the beautiful Mogollon Rim scenery waiting to be explored, you’ll find historic spots, antique shops, places to get fresh goods, and some nice little restaurants.
9. Supai – Most Remote Town
Be prepared for a long hike into the Grand Canyon for this town! It is the most remote town in Arizona and even their mail still gets delivered by mule. You can visit the picturesque Havasu Falls and other waterfalls when you’re here.
10. Superior – Best Town With A Spooky Vibe
This little town has a bit of a spooky vibe with its history, old buildings, and as the set for quite a few horror films. However, you can get a sense of small town charm when you’re here as well!
11. Swansea – Remote Ghost Town
If you really want to see an isolated little ghost town, then Swansea is the place for you. The trip out there is about one to three hours via dirt roads and you’ll get to see what’s left of the former mining town.
12. Tubac – One of Arizona’s Oldest Towns
Arizona’s oldest town is actually Oraibi (which we’ll be covering later this year) but in the mean time, a visit to Tubac is definitely worth a trip. It was established in 1752 as a Spanish fort, a mission was built there, and people have consistently resided here ever since. A visit today will introduce you to the ruins that still exist and the art culture that now thrives.
13. Williams – Perfect For A Route 66 Day Trip
If you want to get a taste of nostalgia, then plan a visit to Williams! This town west of Flagstaff is one of the perfect places to experience Route 66 and the culture that developed around the old highway. You can also do some hiking or ride the train up to the Grand Canyon from here as well!
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