6 Most Laid-Back Small Towns In Arizona
Arizona is a fantastic travel destination, best known for the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon and the rapidly growing city of Phoenix. But it also boasts a wealth of charming small towns that are worth exploring. After visiting the state’s famous tourist attractions, chilling out in a laid-back small town is a great way to relax and recharge. To help plan your first—or next—exploration of Arizona, consider adding these six easy-going small towns to your itinerary.
Williams
Have you ever imagined yourself cruising in a classic car along Route 66, the historic route from Chicago to Southern California? If so, Williams is the kind of small town you have dreamed of stopping in during your drive. Soak up the nostalgic ambiance of mid-20th-century motels and diners as you wander through this timeless, laid-back community. Williams is also an ideal starting point for visiting the Grand Canyon, just 50 miles to the north. For a scenic alternative to driving, hop aboard the classic Grand Canyon Railway, which offers daily trips from Williams to the canyon’s South Rim.
Sedona
Every day of the year, Sedona showcases its stunning array of sandstone formations that glow in vivid reds and oranges, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The main commercial area along Route 89A can get crowded with visitors exploring strip malls, so head instead to the nearby Tlaquepaque shopping complex for a more authentic and relaxing experience. Sedona is also a favorite among New Age enthusiasts who believe there is a convergence of "spiritual vortices" in town. Whether or not you subscribe to these beliefs, shopping for healing crystals can be a calming experience. Regardless of your shopping habits or your spiritual beliefs, Sedona's true highlight remains its breathtaking red rock formations.
Prescott
Over the past four decades, Prescott’s population has more than doubled to around 45,000, yet it retains a laid-back, small-town charm that seamlessly blends Victorian beauty with the Wild West’s rough edges. Having served as Arizona’s territorial capital twice before 1890, Prescott’s picturesque town square features the historic 1916 Yavapai County Courthouse and a collection of Victorian-style buildings. The square is home to several delightful cafes, including Bistro St. Michael, and western wear shops, reflecting the town’s heritage. Prescott proudly hosts the world’s longest-running rodeo, which has been held annually each July since 1888.
Page
Unlike some towns on this list, Page has no Wild West background, as it was founded in the 1950s as a housing community for workers constructing the Glen Canyon Dam. Page’s ideal location makes it an easy (and easy-going) gateway to Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The town is also a popular starting point for tours of the breathtaking Antelope Canyon, which began welcoming tourists with the permission of the Navajo Nation in 1997. The surrounding natural wonders will consume much of your time and attention, but be sure to check out Page highlights such as the Powell Museum and Big John’s Texas BBQ.
Jerome
Is a real-life ghost town scary, or is it the epitome of a truly laid-back community? Visit Jerome and decide for yourself! Jerome boomed as a mining town of 10,000 residents a century ago but is now a hamlet of about 500 that sits atop Cleopatra Hill and gazes over the lovely Verde Valley. Jerome has embraced its ghost town reputation by inviting visitors to explore its supposedly haunted spots, including the Jerome Grand Hotel. After completing the Haunted Jerome Tour, be sure to visit the Clinkscale or one of the town’s other charming restaurants and bars.
Bisbee
Located just 11 miles from the Mexican border in southeastern Arizona, Bisbee began as a mining town in the 1880s. In a successful act of self-preservation, Bisbee reinvented itself as a heritage tourism hub after the copper, gold, and silver mines closed in the 1970s. Get a feel for the town’s history by visiting the Bisbee Mining Museum and taking the Queen Mine Tour, then stroll through the laid-back downtown to admire its unique blend of Victorian and Art Deco architecture and enjoy its local bars and restaurants. Bisbee also has a vibrant music scene, featuring the Bisbee Blues Festival every September.
Arizona definitely earns its nickname as the Grand Canyon State because that awe-inspiring natural wonder is an essential sight when you visit. After the breathtaking experience of exploring the Grand Canyon, set aside time to relax in some of Arizona’s laid-back small towns. Alongside the stunning landscapes, you’ll experience a blend of Old West charm and contemporary style. Pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey through small-town Arizona!
