10 Off-The-Beaten-Path Towns In Arizona

Arizona is best known for the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rocks, and the energy of Phoenix. But beyond these well-trodden destinations lies a collection of small towns that offer something different—something quieter, richer in history, and full of character. Take Oatman, a former mining town where wild burros roam the streets, a nod to its Old West roots. Or Bisbee, a hillside town packed with art galleries, underground mine tours, and a quirky, free-spirited atmosphere.

Each town has its own story, shaped by time, nature, and the people who call it home. Whether it’s a historic landmark, a hidden café, or a scenic trail that most travelers miss, these places invite discovery. If you’re looking to go beyond the famous attractions, these 10 towns in Arizona are the 'It' locales.

Sonoita

Rolling grasslands and open skies make Sonoita a striking contrast to Arizona’s southeastern desert landscape. Sonoita Vineyards is Arizona’s oldest commercial winery, presenting tastings on its 30 acres with sweeping views of the high desert. Nearby, Dos Cabezas WineWorks showcases bold blends made from locally grown grapes. On the other hand, Empire Ranch has been highlighting Arizona’s cattle-ranching past for over 140 years. The 19th-century homestead sits within the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area, where visitors can explore wide open plains and spot pronghorn antelope.

Outdoor enthusiasts can take the drive along State Route 83, which winds through rolling hills and grasslands that resemble Montana more than the typical Arizona desert. Patagonia Lake State Park is also a 30-minute drive away. This hidden oasis has kayaking, fishing, and shaded picnic areas—rare finds in southern Arizona.

Holbrook

Holbrook feels like stepping into a different era. It is located along historic Route 66 and close to the Painted Desert. Just outside town, one of its biggest draws is Petrified Forest National Park. The landscape is scattered with ancient, crystallized wood dating back over 200 million years. Inside the park, Painted Desert Inn is a restored 1920s adobe building with original murals.

In town, the Wigwam Motel is a quirky reminder of Route 66’s golden age. This retro roadside stop lets visitors sleep inside concrete teepees, a nostalgic nod to mid-century travel culture. Meanwhile, Hidden Cove Petroglyph Park offers a short hike to over 300 ancient rock carvings left by Indigenous people centuries ago. Many visitors overlook this site, but it provides a direct link to the region’s deep history of Zuni and Hopi Tribal communities.

Globe

Founded in the 1870s, Globe still carries the character of the Old West into the foothills of the Pinal Mountains. Besh-Ba-Gowah Museum is one of its most significant appeals. This partially reconstructed Salado pueblo dates back over 700 years and delivers a rare look at pre-Columbian life in the region. The on-site museum displays artifacts like pottery and tools, giving visitors insight into the people who once lived there.

Downtown Globe is lined with 19th-century buildings, including the Gila County Historical Museum in a former rescue depot. The museum covers everything from Native American history to the town’s copper mining boom. Just outside town, Pinal Mountain Recreation Area offers hiking and camping. The higher elevation brings cooler temperatures, making it a great retreat in summer.

Oatman

With wooden sidewalks, rustic buildings, and free-roaming burros, Oatman delivers an authentic Old West experience that’s unlike anywhere else in Arizona. The town’s biggest attraction is its wild burros. These friendly descendants of mining-era pack animals wander the streets, greeting visitors and looking for treats. Meanwhile, the Oatman Hotel is the oldest two-story adobe structure in Mohave County. Initially constructed in 1902, it’s rumored to have hosted Clark Gable and Carole Lombard on their honeymoon. Today, the hotel operates as a restaurant and museum, with walls covered in signed dollar bills left by visitors.

For history and a bit of drama, the Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters put on daily Wild West shootout reenactments. These free afternoon shows bring the town’s rough-and-tumble past to life. Furthermore, Sitgreaves Pass is a standout for breathtaking views of the Black Mountains and is one of the most scenic spots along Route 66. The winding road leads to old mining sites and viewpoints that overlook the vast Arizona desert.

Bisbee

Bisbee invites visitors into the Mule Mountain to experience a town that embraces both its past and present. A visit to the Queen Mine Tour takes you deep underground into Bisbee’s mining past. Retired miners lead tours through tunnels once used to extract copper. Above ground, the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum gives more insight into the town’s rise and fall as a mining powerhouse. It’s a Smithsonian-affiliated museum with well-preserved exhibits.

Additionally, Erie Street in Lowell feels like stepping into the 1950s. This partially abandoned street is lined with vintage cars, old storefronts, and a retro gas station, making it a hidden gem for photographers. Another must-visit spot is Bisbee’s 1000 Stair Climb, a self-guided challenge that takes visitors up staircases hidden between historic buildings and homes. Along the 4.5-mile way, murals and street art add to the town’s creative energy.

Safford

Two hours from Tucson, Safford takes a seat in southeastern Arizona. The town is famed for Roper Lake State Park, boasting a small lake, hiking trails, and natural hot springs. Visitors can swim, fish, or soak in the warm waters with views of Mount Graham. A few miles away, the 23,000 acres of Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area offer a different kind of outdoor experience. The Gila River flows through this protected area, creating lush canyons and a haven for wildlife. Kayakers, birdwatchers, and hikers will find plenty to explore.

Meanwhile, the Essence of Tranquility is a locally owned hot springs retreat just outside of town. With its natural mineral hot springs, soaking tubs, and spa options, it is quickly gaining fame in the area.

Clifton

Clifton is a rugged town set along the steep cliffs of the San Francisco River. One of the most striking sights is the Clifton Cliff Jail. Built into the rock in the 1880s, this small jail once held rowdy outlaws in its cold stone cells. A short walk from the jail leads to historic buildings, including the Greenlee County Courthouse, a beautifully preserved structure that reflects the town’s early 1900s prosperity.

On the other hand, the Morenci Mine Lookout presents a view of one of the largest copper mines in North America. The massive terraced landscape is a reminder of the industry that shaped the region. Simultaneously, the Haunted Arizona Ghost Tour of Clifton allows you to bring you a streak of thrill. The tour takes on places like the Old Jail and Clifton Hotel while narrating the haunting lores.

Winslow

Winslow may be best known for the Eagles' song Take It Easy, but there’s more to this Route 66 town than a famous corner. The Standin’ on the Corner Park is a must-visit for music fans. A statue of a musician, a flatbed Ford, and a mural bring the song’s lyrics to life. For those drawn to natural wonders, Homolovi State Park is the place. It protects the ruins of an ancient Hopi village, with 300+ petroglyphs and trails leading through the desert. Another stunning site is the Little Painted Desert. Often overlooked, this quiet stretch of badlands has colorful, rolling hills similar to the more famous Painted Desert but without the crowds.

Fascinatingly, the La Posada Hotel is a restored 1930s railway hotel designed by Mary Colter. It serves as both a historic landmark and a working hotel with Southwest-style architecture, gardens, and a celebrated restaurant. Even those not staying overnight should stop by to admire the elegant interior.

Tubac

Tubac was once a Spanish presidio and now thrives as a creative hub surrounded by desert beauty. The Tubac Presidio State Historic Park is a key stop. It preserves Arizona’s first European settlement and has exhibits on Spanish explorers, native cultures, and the town’s frontier days. The Juan Bautista de Anza Trail, running through Tubac, allows visitors to follow the path of the 18th-century expedition that helped settle California.

Art lovers should explore the Tubac Center of the Arts, which showcases local and regional artists in its multiple exhibits, art workshops, and a gift center. Every February, the Tubac Festival of the Arts brings in 250+ craftspeople and visitors from across the state. The events range from wine and beer sampling, riding horse-drawn trolleys, to browsing through over 120 art galleries.

Springerville

Even though Springerville serves as a gateway to the White Mountain, it is not a major tourist destination. Casa Malpais Archaeological Park & Museum is among the most remarkable sites. This ancient pueblo, built by the Mogollon people, features a Great Kiva, petroglyphs, and stairways carved into volcanic rock. Guided tours give insight into the site’s spiritual and astronomical significance. The museum in town displays artifacts and provides context before visitors explore the ruins.

Sunrise Park Resort is a destination 26 miles away. In winter, it’s a ski hotspot with downhill runs and snowboarding. During warmer months, it offers hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Also, Becker Lake Wildlife Area is a peaceful 622-acre spot known for birdwatching and trout fishing. The lake is one of Arizona’s oldest reservoirs and attracts bald eagles and other migratory birds.

Unveiling Arizona’s Lesser-Known Treasures

Arizona’s hidden towns offer more than just a break from the usual tourist spots—they reveal a side of the state that many travelers never experience. Beyond their iconic attractions, these places have unexpected gems. In Springerville, the ancient ruins of Casa Malpais offer a glimpse into the past. Winslow, forever tied to its Route 66 fame, surprises visitors with La Posada, a historic hotel filled with Southwest art and history. Stepping off the main highways and into these communities isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about experiencing these towns in Arizona in a more personal way.