7 Slow-Paced Towns To Visit In Arizona
Arizona has always been one of the wilder and untamed states within the country, with its stunning mountains, expanses of colorful desert, and lively metropolises like Tempe and Tucson. However, it is also becoming a popular choice for tourists looking to escape the noise and find a slower-paced vacation destination in a small town rife with exploration and discovery opportunities. From the high altitudes of Pinetop-Lakeside to the desert views in Page, something will strike a chord in any traveler.
Pinetop- Lakeside
If you head towards the White Mountains in the eastern part of the state, you can come across the quiet and relaxing retreat of Pinetop-Lakeside. The community's backdrop is the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, which have breathtaking landscapes overlooking lakes and miles of hiking trails to explore. Woodland Lake Park is another popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience Arizona's natural splendor while escaping the bustle of the cities.
Relaxation and a slow pace have much more to do with the charming businesses and community spirit than anything else, as you can take in unique retailers like The Gingerbread Cabin - a local home and clothing boutique that has been around for decades, or a feast on a sizable breakfast at Darbi’s Café before you set out for the exploration ahead. If you plan to come in the autumn months, some of the slow pace is replaced by a festive spirit as the Fall Festival hits - bringing music, entertainment, food, crafts, and community togetherness.
Cottonwood
The Verde Valley is a feast of natural wonder, and right amid its grandeur is Cottonwood. Here, visitors can experience a charming retreat into a relaxed lifestyle with an eclectic blend of small-town atmosphere and local flavor. Historic Old Town Cottonwood is the heart of the laid-back experience, with preserved 1920s buildings now housing eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, such as the well-known Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room, where you will be able to taste Arizona wines. Main Street also offers a lot of retail and dining, from Twice Nice Thriftique to The Hive, a local eatery and juice bar.
Outdoor exploration is a considerable draw for tourists looking for a relaxing adventure away from metropolitan life. Nearby, you can find Dead Horse Ranch, teeming with trails, fishing spots, and even campgrounds if you want to rough it a bit on your escape from the fast pace of life.
Snowflake
Snowflake is one of the towns you might not see on all the maps simply because it is not big enough. This small size has made it an undiscovered gem for those touring Arizona for authentic small-town charm. One of the first things you will notice is the higher volume of historic 19th and early 20th-century homes on a walking tour of the community, such as the John A. Freeman House or the Jessie Nathaniel Smith House. The Stinson Pioneer Museum offers even more to understanding Snowflake's rich mining and Mormon history.
Community is still the driving force behind this close-knit and quaint town, with locally-owned family eateries like La Cocina De Eva. The nearby White Mountains provide scenic views for hiking and fishing, while the Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area offers a strategic spot for water leisure. Each autumn, Snowflake conducts a Harvest Festival where its residents and guests gather as one in arts, crafts, and community events that attest to the strength of tradition and neighborliness.
Holbrook
Holbrook is a charming retreat to slow down in, as there is much to do or a calm environment to do nothing. The town is full of Old West nostalgia and some rather odd attractions. This Route 66 town takes its signature motel to another level, quite literally, with the Wigwam Motel, whose rooms take the shape of classic Native American teepees. A short drive away, the Petrified Forest National Park offers a unique experience with petrified wood and some mesmerizing Painted Desert views. For a dose of small-town America, downtown Holbrook provides many friendly local shops and cafes; Tom & Susie’s Diner offers the most authentic experience for quintessential quick fare along the historic road.
With festivals like the Old West Days rodeos, live music, and reenactments, Holbrook celebrates its storied past and focuses on the best of its cowboy town spirit. The Navajo County Historical Museum in the old courthouse gives insight into the area’s Indigenous and pioneering history, making Holbrook a stop of interest for the historical nut.
Page
Tucked away near the Utah border, Page is a little-known haven for travelers searching for rest and nature. Home to some of the most spectacular landscapes anywhere, this town opens out onto Lake Powell, where tranquil blue waters set against a rugged sandstone cliff create a sight to take your breath away. On your journey of exploration, you can rent kayaks and boats to explore landmarks like the Antelope Point Marina before you call it a day. Back in town, pick great local dining like Gone West Family Restaurant or State 48 Tavern.
When you are looking to embrace the slower pace of Page, you can start at the nearby Antelope Canyon to witness the wonder of nature as the sun enlivens sandstone walls in a gorgeous display. Those visiting Page in November can appreciate the whimsical and beautiful site of hundreds of hot air balloons flying over Lake Powell during the annual Balloon Regatta.
Camp Verde
Camp Verde is a more relaxed experience in Arizona's Verde Valley. It is a place for those who want to take it easy and relax. Rich in history, this city houses the famous Montezuma Castle National Monument, a breathtaking 1,000-year-old cliff dwelling constructed by the Sinagua people. The monument gives tourists an exciting view of ancient Native American life. Notably, the nearby Verde River offers kayaking, fishing and tranquil nature walks that enable tourists to relax in the beauty of Arizona.
Local businesses and events enhance Camp Verde further, leaning into the town’s slow pace and quaint charm. Among the most popular options for hungry visitors and locals is Babe’s Round Up for premium barbeque favorites or Storytellers for a unique atmosphere and comforting dishes. The Fort Verde State Historic Park ranks among the top attractions in Camp Verde, where one can relive the Old West with well-preserved military buildings and reenactments.
Jerome
Perched on Cleopatra Hill, Jerome is a historic mining town turned into an artistic haven. Here, visitors can have fun in a quiet, different retreat from the modern hustle and bustle. Once known as the "Wickedest Town in the West," Jerome's colorful history lives on through its preserved buildings, like the iconic Jerome Grand Hotel, which offers incredible views (and ghostly tales for the more adventurous).
Adding to Jerome's relaxed vibe are quaint cafes like the Flatiron and local favorites like the Haunted Hamburger, which offer filling meals with amazing views. Outdoor enthusiasts can fall in love with nature with hiking options throughout Verde Valley. While there are many sites to explore, the easiest to access from town is the namesake Jerome State Historic Park. With incredible views from trails and landmark properties like the Douglas Mansion, you can spend hours lost in this iconic stop.
While there might be a cause for seeking out the fun and excitement of the larger cities, you will never experience Arizona to the fullest until you are watching hot air balloons on Lake Powell near Page or celebrating the Old West Days with Holbrook's residents. The lesser-known retreats you will find amid the natural wonders of The Copper State beckon you to discover the attractiveness of slowing down in the scenic Southwest.
