8 Most Charming Cities In Arizona

Known as the Grand Canyon State, obviously because it's home to the world-famous geographical marvel considered among the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Arizona easily features among the most visited states in the US. And while the Grand Canyon is hands-down the state's star attraction, the sixth-largest state in the country has other enticing draws. These include many spectacular mountain ranges that would leave visitors completely blown away. Of course, Arizona's sun-tanned landscape needs no hyping. And if this will come as a surprise, Arizona is home to the largest stand of evergreen ponderosa pine trees on the planet. In this article, however, we spotlight some of the state's most charming cities. These cities offer a great blend stunning outdoors and modern city life whose lure just cannot be ignored. 

Tucson

Known for its beautiful, adobe-style buildings, and unjustifiably as the Dirty-T, Tucson is a lively and vibrant city that will easily cast its spell upon visitors. As a destination for food lovers, few cities can hold a candle to the second-largest city in Arizona. And this is not just some word on the street. Tucson was the first city in the US to be designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Food in Tucson tells a story that goes back four millennia. And then, about 40 miles away, there's the spectacular Mt. Lemon. Here's where one will be blown away by the amazing vistas and the incredible scenery of what is undoubtedly among the most dramatic landscapes in the country.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff offers many exciting features that one will look for in vain in other Arizona cities. Outdoor enthusiasts, for instance, will particularly get a blast in Flagstaff. For its impressive number of trails, many of which feature scenic overlooks, including one that goes to the highest point in Arizona, hikers and bikers will enjoy one of the best outdoor treats in the state, perhaps even in the country. And for those who may crave some change, Flagstaff is just about an hour or two away from an entirely different ecosystem. One can strap his backpack, climb his mountain bike, and two hours later, he'll be cruising through the streets of Sedona.

Prescott

Standing at an elevation above 5,000 feet and widely known as a Christmas town, Prescott is another Arizona gem worth checking out. And while Prescott has many draws, including a pleasurably mild climate, complete with four distinct seasons, the city's main draw is its Courthouse Square. The Courthouse has a gorgeous park, several statues, and an impressive walkway. Curled up in the Ponderosa Pines of Prescott National Forest and in an area that boasts more than 400 miles of hiking, Prescott will easily impress any outdoor enthusiast. We've not mentioned Whiskey Row, hugely famous for its candy shops, bars, art galleries, and saloons. With all these, Prescott clearly punches above its weight.

Bisbee

With the death of the mining business, Bisbee's fate seemed sealed; its end near. However, artists would not just let it die in peace. Today, Bisbee is famous for its eclectic art galleries and a look that is cool and charming, making it a real Arizona gem. Whether one wants to tour a mine, marvel at the town's unique architecture, or just enjoy strolling through a gorgeous, walkable downtown, Bisbee is a town where one cannot get enough. And then there is the impressive array of delectable cuisines on offer here. Situated on Main Street in the heart of town, Cafe Roka offers an impressive range of mouthwatering delicacies that are all sinfully sumptuous. And that is just one. 

Jerome

Before even setting foot on Jerome, the road adventure will provide a delicious foretaste of what awaits. The road to Jerome is scenic and twisty, and just what a road tripper will want to stay on forever. And then the town itself. And no, Jerome is not a ghost town, even if many often swear that the Jerome Grand Hotel, and two or three other hotels, are haunted places. For a sweeping view of the town, one should climb Cleopatra Hill and gaze down for some breathtaking views of the old mining town and the Verde Valley below. To while away the time, Jerome State Historic Park, a few minutes from downtown, displays interesting photographs of Jerome's network of underground mine tunnels.

Show Low

Show Low is a hidden gem with many hidden caves and hidden history. Set in the rugged backdrop of tall evergreens and boasting a name that is a fascinating object of curiosity, Show Low will effortlessly impress most visitors. One can start his tour of the town by checking out the Show Low Historical Museum, especially to learn more about the town and its intriguing history. Besides that, Painted Desert, with its colorful hills and sculptured buttes, is about a ninety-minute drive away. What's more? It's always a pleasure walking around the 100-acre Show Low Lake. The lake is reputed to be one of the best scenes of Walleye fishing in Arizona.

Sedona

Let's start with the undesirables. Sedona has of late become touristy, crowded, and, as some may add, expensive. Obviously, Sedona's world-famous beauty seems to have come at a price. Yet Sedona, which styles itself as the most beautiful place on earth, is a place one should travel to at least once in a lifetime. Whether it's the red-rock scenery, an unreal scenery that seems to glow in iridescent technicolor at certain times of the day—or the impressive range of activities visitors can partake in—Sedona is one of Arizona's finest towns. Aside from the magical landscape, Sedona is famous for its unique shops and art galleries and a climate that's often cooler than it is in Phoenix, for instance.

Tubac

Set in the backdrop of picturesque mountains and valleys, Tubac is small but gorgeous and boasts several attractions, including the Mission San José de Tumacácori, one of the earliest missions in Arizona. Tubac also boasts some interesting historical factoids. For instance, the Spanish expedition that would go on to establish San Fransisco started its march from Tubac. History buffs will enjoy visiting such places as the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, which today offers visitors a glimpse into the town's storied past and celebrates its legacy and rich heritage. And from almost any spot in Tubac, one can grab some incredible views of the Santa Rita mountains and amazing sunset views.

The Takeaway

Here's the thing. Each state has something it can brag about; perhaps it's the ice-capped mountains, glittering waterfalls, or serene lakes. When it comes to Arizona, its spectacular landscape is something known across the globe. Yet the Grand Canyon State, as Arizona is known, also boasts towns that are as picturesque as the state's celebrated landscape. Whether it's Tucson, known for its adobe-style buildings, or Sedona, reputed for its stunning red-rock landscape, Arizona is not short of beautiful, charming towns.