The Friendly Small Town In Arizona That's Perfect For A Summer Day Trip
By Melissa Mahoney|Published May 15, 2023
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
Small towns are often associated with a slower pace of living and friendly residents. In a state as large as Arizona, there are numerous small towns scattered throughout. One friendly small town in Arizona that makes a perfect summer day trip destination happens to be Wickenburg. While offering many aspects of what a larger town or city has, this small town feels far removed from the outside world.
Like many small towns around the Grand Canyon State, Wickenburg started out as a mining town in the 1800s. Gold and silver were discovered at Vulture Mine by Henry Wickenburg after whom the town is named.
The town of Wickenburg was incorporated in 1909 and today, has a population of approximately 7,700 residents.
Wickenburg is located in the northwestern portion of Maricopa County about 50 miles away from Phoenix. Here you will find a charming downtown area complete with restaurants, bars, and shops.
Take a stroll and check out all that this town has to offer including its western town ambiance!
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Not only are there dining and shopping options in Wickenburg but plenty of recreational opportunities. From walking tours of the town to renting off-road vehicles, hiking, golfing, panning for gold, and more, you'll have plenty of options for a fun day trip to this town.
Running through town is the Hassayampa River. Located on U.S. Highway 60, the Hassayampa River Preserve is a wonderful spot for birding, hiking, and views.
You may even catch a glimpse of the historic BNSF Railroad Bridge that spans over the Hassayampa River. Built in 1930, this Pratt through truss bridge is 150 feet long.
With its location in Maricopa County, Wickenburg is an ideal day trip destination for those who want to escape Phoenix for a day and experience a change of pace.
Have you ever visited Wickenburg? If you have, what was your experience like? We’d love to know! For more information about this small town in Arizona, visit the Town of Wickenburg website.
While visiting Wickenburg, be sure to stop by Bedoian’s Bakery & Bistro for some delicious desserts!
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