As the sixth-largest and fourteenth-most-populated state, Arizona is very unique to the cultural backdrop that is the United States. Historically it was a part of New Spain and became a part of independent Mexico until the Mexican-American War in 1848 when the land was ceded to the Americans afterward. About one-quarter of the region is made up of Native American reservations, making it the largest in the country to have that much dedicated to reservations. As such, Arizona has some of the largest populations of Native Americans, with 27 tribes calling it home—the Navajo being the largest tribe. With its beautiful desert vistas and iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, this place is beautiful, with a lot to see. If you’re exploring the southwest Unites States, check out the best places to visit in Arizona.
1. Jerome (from USD 90.0)
Jerome is a town that is also no longer a town. Located near Sadona, this place is a ghost town, but part of its charm is that it basically looks like it did during the days of the Old West. Jerome was a mining region, and visitors on this tour can get a glimpse of what mining in the Old West was like and how the place was run. You can also check out some of the architecture of 19th-century Western civilization. Many of the buildings from the era still stand, such as the local brothel, the saloon, and back alleys. Stop for lunch on Main Street and take in the beautiful desert scenery.
Historic Tour of Jerome
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
2. Prescott
Located in Yavapai County, Prescott was actually one of the first capitals of the Arizona territory after it replaced the temporary one in Fort Whipple. It was the capital until 1877, then was replaced by Phoenix in 1889, where it remains today. Seeing this is a pretty old and notable location in the state, there are tons of old Victorian homes here as well as a historic downtown area, known as Whiskey Row. For a small town, Prescott has over 800 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also home to the Tallest House in North America.
Prescott
Address: Prescott, Arizona, USA
Website: Prescott
3. Yuma
Yuma is as old as Arizona itself. The city played an important role in the foundation of the statehood most likely because of its location overlooking the Colorado River. In the 1500s, Spanish explorers deemed the area a good place for a settlement, and since then, Yuma started to grow. During the California Gold Rush, the city became important for its ferry crossing, as those looking for fortune had to cross Colorado to get there. Arizona’s oldest town has several claims to fame, like the classic Western movie “3:10 to Yuma” being named after it and “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” having been filmed here.
Yuma
Address: Yuma, Arizona, USA
Website: Yuma
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4. Flagstaff
Located on the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau, Flagstaff indeed has an interesting name. After a scouting party from Boston sent a flagpole to the city in honor of the country’s centennial, it was henceforth known as Flagstaff. The city is an outdoorsman’s paradise, with amazing mountain ranges nearby and its being home to Arizona’s highest point, Humphrey’s Peak. If you’re into rock climbing and hiking, this is the place for you.
Flagstaff
Address: Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
Website: Flagstaff
5. Sedona (from USD 75.0)
Sedona is probably the most scenic in Arizona. This tour gives you the chance to see the splendor of the city in all its glory. It is even a little customizable before you head out so you can see the highlights you prefer. Drive through the incredible Oak Creek Canyon, then visit Bell Rock and Chapel of the Holy Cross, an architectural marvel built into a rock. Learn about the history and geology of Sedona and marvel at the amazing landscapes. Don’t forget your camera!
Scenic Sedona Tour
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
6. Mesa
Mesa is located near Phoenix and is actually one of the largest cities in Arizona. It is by far one of the oldest continually settled places in the state, with Native people having lived there for at least 2,000 years. The Hohokam people who originally settled in the area built irrigation canals and turned the Sonora desert area into a thriving agricultural land, which the pioneers then used when they arrived, allowing the town to flourish. There are tons of great places to check out, like the Museum of Natural History, as well as archaeological sites like Mesa Grande Ruins.
Mesa
Address: Mesa, Arizona, USA
Website: Mesa
7. Tombstone
Tombstone is a historic city in Arizona and one that is located in a peculiar spot. Founded by a prospector in 1879, it was one of the last big boomtowns in America. It is located practically in the middle of the desert, but the sheer amount of silver bouillon found nearby made it thrive. Tombstone grew significantly in the 1880s, and because of its proximity to the U.S-Mexico border and the sheer amount of money going through, it became a place heavy with crime and gunslingers. This town is home to the legendary Gunfight at the OK Corral, and now the site brings in tourists interested in Wild West history. For a taste of the Old West, this place is the right spot to see it.
Tombstone
Address: Tombstone, Arizona, USA
Website: Tombstone
8. Tucson
Known as Old Pueblo, Tucson was built as a military outpost for the Spanish. Eventually, it became part of the state of Sonora, Mexico, after Mexico gained its independence from Spain and then was acquired via a treaty by the United States. All of this makes Tucson a place of interesting history and culture, with Mexican, American, and Native influences making their mark on just about everything, from food to art. The city is big on the arts scene, and celebrating everything—from rodeos and street fairs to books and minerals—can be done at the many yearly festivals here.
Tucson
Address: Tuscon, Arizona, USA
Website: Tuscon
9. Bisbee
Tiny little Bisbee is located only 11 miles (18 km) from the Mexican border, and although only boasting a population of a little over 5,000 people, Bisbee has seen its fair share of Arizona history. During the early 20th century, the town’s economy boomed as the local copper industry exploded as a result of the need for this metal during World War I. In the 1950s, population decline led to housing and property prices plummeting, but that, in turn, led to a massive influx of hippies, artists, and counterculture people deciding to move here. Bisbee is now full of art and eccentrics and is a great spot for your next Arizona trip.
Bisbee
Address: Bisbee, Arizona, USA
Website: Bisbee
10. Lake Havasu City
Lake Havasu City is located in Mohave County and is right on the border with Nevada. As far as cities in Arizona go, this place is actually pretty modern, having only been established in the 1950s. During the 1940s, it was an Army Air Corps rest stop. What makes Lake Havasu City unique is that it is home to the London Bridge—yes, that London Bridge. Businessman Robert McCullough bought it from London in 1968 for 2.5 million USD when the bridge there was being replaced. Now the London Bridge crosses a segment of the Colorado River and is the second-most-visited tourist destination in Arizona.
Lake Havasu City
Address: Lake Havasu City, Arizona, USA
Website: Lake Havasu City
11. Scottsdale (from USD 85.0)
Scottsdale is one of the biggest cities in Arizona, and how better to explore it than the modern convenience of the Segway. A two-hour Segway tour is a great way to see this vibrant and fun city while also learning about its history and gathering insightful local tips on where to go and what to check out afterward. A Segway, a helmet, and some Segway operational lessons are given before you head out. Explore Old Town Scottsdale, which is the downtown area, and see historic landmarks and some local art while on this cool tour.
Old Town Scottsdale Segway 2-Hour Small-Group Tour
Duration: 2 hours
12. Tempe
Sandwiched between Phoenix and Mesa is Tempe. Named after the Vale of Tempe in Greece, it is home to the main campus of the University of Arizona, giving the city a really cool, young, and vibrant vibe and filling it with art, music, and lots of great things to do. Public art installations are found throughout, and the city also hosts a few festivals, like Tempe Music Walk and Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon that combines music and marathon running.
Tempe
Address: Tempe, Arizona, USA
Website: Tempe
13. Williams
Just west of Flagstaff, Williams is small but certainly historic. With a population of just over 3,000 people, the town lies on the historic Route 66 and is the southern terminus of Grand Canyon Railway. Its population might be small, but it is full of amazing sites for people visiting. Numerous hotels, restaurants, and landmarks cater to tourists coming and going to visit the Grand Canyon. Williams is also near some highly recommended ski resorts, making the city a pretty great spot for those interested in the outdoors, regardless of what time of the year it is.
Williams
Address: Williams, Arizona, USA
Website: Williams
14. Cave Creek
Cave Creek is an old frontier town near the capital of Phoenix. Cave Creek may be pretty small, but it is full of some amazing places that are both historic and important to Arizona. Numerous houses and buildings here are on the National Register of Historic Places, including the location of two restaurants, so you can grab a meal and immerse yourself in some local history. Even ancient artifacts have been found around the area. Cave Creek Museum and Tubercular Cabin are preserved original structures.
Cave Creek
Address: Cave Creek, Arizona, USA
Website: Cave Creek
15. Greer
Greer is located in Apache County, and many people would probably not think that it is in Arizona. When you see pictures of the place, you’ll notice that it is not a desert landscape. Rather, it is a green and lush area set in the White Mountains and is surrounded by trees and hills. Located in the northeastern region of the state, near the border with New Mexico, Greer is only about an hour’s drive from Phoenix. This unique spot is truly a must-see and is perfect for those looking to do a little skiing in the winter and maybe a little hiking during the warm summer months.
Greer
Address: Greer, Arizona, USA
Website: Greer
16. Globe
Globe, meaning “the place of metal” in the Apache language, is one a few places that have an entire neighborhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Like many locations in Arizona, Globe grew economically because of the mining industry, but unlike the others, mining was a staple of its economy until very recently. The entire downtown area is full of historic buildings, so you can just walk along the streets admiring them and taking in the views.
Globe
Address: Globe, Arizona, USA
Website: Globe
17. Tubac
Tubac is a little town that is certainly off the beaten path in Arizona. It has a population of just over 1,000 people, but despite that, it is one of the most historic places in the state. Its name is of Spanish origin, which, in turn, is also the translation of a local Native word, “cuwak,” which means “rotten” in English. Tubac was the original Spanish garrison in Arizona, which was depopulated in the 18th century. Then miners and farmers repopulated it in the 19th century. Now the town is an art colony with a small art school located right in the desert, and art festivals are held here every year.
Tubac
Address: Tubac, Arizona, USA
Website: Tubac
18. Winslow
Winslow is a little town located near the border of Arizona and Nevada. There is some debate on where its name came from. Locals say it is either named after Edward F. Winslow, president of St. Louis and San Fransisco Railroad, or a man named Tom Winslow, who was a prospector in the area. Route 66 goes through the city, and the last Harvey House designed by Mary Colter is also located here, making it a pretty cool landmark.
Winslow
Address: Winslow, Arizona, USA
Website: Winslow
19. Chandler
Located right next to Tempe and Mesa, Chandler is named after a veterinary surgeon, the first in Arizona. By 1900 he acquired over 18,000 acres of land (73 square km) and began to draw up plans for a city and ranch. Chandler experienced exponential growth throughout its lifetime, and even during the Great Depression, it managed to sustain itself. This place has a historic downtown area that’s been renovated and revitalized, a thriving art scene, as well as beautiful outdoor spaces that are perfect for hiking, kayaking, and simply enjoying.
Chandler
Address: Chandler, Arizona, USA
Website: Chandler
20. Glendale
Glendale was nothing but a small town in the desert until William John Murphy, a native of New York residing in Flagstaff, started to build the Arizona Canal. The canal brought water to the area and made Glendale a place where people can live and grow food, and since then the city grew. Now there are tons of great attractions to check out like Adobe Mountain Park as well as historic ranches, not to mention the many exciting festivals such as Glendale Jazz and Blues Festival.
Glendale
Address: Glendale, Arizona, USA
Website: Glendale
21. Gilbert
Located just southwest of Phoenix, Gilbert was known as the “hay-shipping capital of the world,” and although that might not be the economic driver of the city now, it is still home to tons of great places that are worth checking out. Historically the town was settled in by a lot of Mormons fleeing Mexico in 1912, and they turned the land into a prosperous agricultural area. Gilbert has a flourishing art scene, especially with music, as several locals have gone on to have successful careers in said industry.
Gilbert
Address: Gilbert, Arizona, USA
Website: Gilbert
22. Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley is a place whose name is definitely apt. it is home to some of Arizona’s best and most luxurious golf courses, real estate, and restaurant scene. The town’s history goes back to its agrarian roots, and after the first European settlement, the area grew exponentially, especially after World War II. The population is pretty small, but despite that, this location has over eight full-service resorts, making it one of the state’s premier destinations for those looking for a little getaway and some pampering. Rest in the sunshine, take in views of the mountains, and enjoy the overall serenity.
Paradise Valley
Address: Paradise Valley, Arizona, USA
Website: Paradise Valley
23. Oro Valley
Oro Valley has been inhabited for over 2,000 years by various indigenous groups, and then the European settlers eventually arrived. After the establishment of a cattle ranch, it grew from there. Now parts of the city are listed as historically important. For those interested in getting close to nature, this town is a great spot. There are tons of amazing spaces that are perfect for the outdoorsy person. Hike along the Canada del Oro Trail or Pusch Ridge, named after one of Oro Valley’s first citizens, George Pusch. There are also some great music and art festivals here that are held annually and bring in some pretty important guests, like Gavin DeGraw and Lee Brice.
Oro Valley
Address: Oro Valley, Arizona, USA
Website: Oro Valley
24. Peoria
Peoria is a little suburb of Phoenix and is named after a city in Illinois. Perhaps weirdly enough, the name “Peoria” is a corruption of the Illini word for “prairie fire.” This beautiful spot has amazing weather and is named by Money Magazine as one of the best places to live in. Peoria grew alongside the advent of the railroad and is home to a few interesting historic sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For sports fans, the city is home to the training grounds of the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres, so you can catch some of your favorite ballplayers while here.
Peoria
Address: Peoria, Arizona, USA
Website: Peoria
25. Litchfield Park
Historically, Litchfield Park has been a pretty affluent city. Interestingly, its founder, Paul Weeks Litchfield, was an executive of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, who came to the area to try and find suitable land to grow cotton previously found only in Georgia and Egypt. Litchfield Park is also host to a lot of historic structures and places, like St. Thomas Mission Church that was built in 1919 or Wigwam Hotel that was built in 1929. Check out the town’s history or some of its festivals, like Arts in the Park or Flavors of the West Festival.
Litchfield Park
Address: Litchfield Park, Arizona, USA
Website: Litchfield Park
26. Surprise
You might think a town like Surprise probably has a funny story behind how it got its name. And you’d be right! Founder Flora Mae Statler gave it the name in 1938 when she said she “would be surprised if the city ever amounted to much.” Perhaps much to her surprise, it did amount to much, as through the 1960s the town grew immensely when agricultural workers came to settle here. Now the place is a great spot for sports lovers thanks to the baseball teams doing their spring training at Surprise Stadium.
Surprise
Address: Surprise, Arizona, USA
Website: Surprise
27. Fountain Hills
Fountain Hills is another very old settlement in Arizona. Before the area was known as Fountain Hills, it was home to the Yavapai, and archaeological remains can still be found in certain places along the mountains. The town is a great place for people wanting to spend some time outdoors and immerse themselves in nature as there are beautiful vistas around and there is sunshine basically all year round.
Fountain Hills
Address: Fountain Hills, Arizona, USA
Website: Fountain Hills
28. Phoenix (from USD 92.0)
Phoenix is the largest city and the capital of the state. If you don’t have a lot of time to really get to know the place, hop on this tour and explore its highlights in just four hours. Check out the historic locations around, and sightsee in an air-conditioned bus with a tour guide. See the beautiful Sonora desert, the state capitol building, and natural landmarks like Camelback Mountain and South Mountain State Park. On this tour, you’ll learn about local history and Native American lore and see some gorgeous wildlife and natural landscapes.
Phoenix Highlights Half-Day Tour With Old Town, State Capitol
Duration: 4 hours
Arizona travel
Arizona is full of amazing cities that are impressive and unique in their own ways. The state is home to some great things to do, so whether you’re already a local or you’re someone looking to make their way through the state, there is definitely something for you to enjoy. For nature lovers, the vast openness of the desert is truly a sight to behold, and if you’re into camping and stargazing, heading out into the open desert at night is an experience you won’t soon forget. Marvel at Western sunsets and the gorgeous scenery, and have some fun in eclectic cities that seemingly offer something new to see or do every time.
History
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