9 Secluded Towns in Arizona

Arizona is one of the least densely populated states in the US, which means it is easy to find desolate towns and vast open scenery across the state. With popular cities such as Flagstaff and the capital Phoenix hosting the most populations, other smaller towns are quite secluded. However, seclusion is not a drawback in these towns as they are home to some of the most enchanting landscapes that make Arizona special. From deserts and badlands to mountains, rivers, lakes, and the Grand Canyon, these towns are full of natural endowments, including elements of history, culture, wildlife, and arts. Without further ado, here are nine secluded towns in Arizona beckoning you to visit today.

Tombstone

Tombstone in Cochise County is a history lover’s haven, packed with many historic attractions and sights. First off, the town is renowned as the site of the less-than-a-minute O.K Corral Gun Fight in 1881 between law enforcement officers, cattle rustlers, and horse thieves. Visitors can watch daily reenactments of this short battle that has become the theme of many story books and films at the O.K Corral Center. Next, head to the Tombstone Courthouse State Historical Park - a two-story Victorian mansion that brims with interpretive exhibits on Cochise County and Tombstone, including the town’s mining history. The Boothill Graveyard or Cemetery is another significant historic site where some of the town's most famous personalities were buried, including Sing Choy, one of the 500 Chinese people who lived in Tombstone during the 1880s. After touring these historic sites, stop at the Crystal Palace Saloon to savor a delicious lunch or dinner.

Show Low

Show Low is a hidden gem in Arizona with a catchy name and many appealing attractions visitors would love. This beautiful town in Navajo County, named after the turning of a card, packs quite a few compelling attractions like the Fool Hollow Lake Recreational Area, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, and wildlife sightings. Show Low City Park is another great spot in town, inviting visitors to enjoy leisure walks and picnics in its scenic green environment. Visitors can also check out the Show Low Historical Museum, where Native American artifacts and the history of the White Mountain Region are preserved. Also, don’t forget to enjoy movies at the WME Theatres or relax with various treatments and therapies at Pure Relaxation Day Spa.

Willcox

Willcox might be remote, secluded, and unpopular, but this Cochise County town is one of nature’s most beloved destinations in Arizona. It lies in the Sulphur Springs Valley and is surrounded by many seasonal lakes, including some of Arizona's grandest mountain ranges, such as the Chihuahua, Mount Lemmon, and Mount Graham. Visitors can immerse in the mountainous ambiance that rings the town at the Chihuahua National Monument, where massive volcanic rocks spear into the skies like distinct pillars. Learn about the history of Willcox and Sulphur Springs Valley at the Chiricahua Regional Museum through artifacts, documents, and photography. Proceed to discover one of the town’s most significant historical figures at the Rex Allen Cowboy Museum and enjoy a show or movie later at the Willcox Theatre before leaving town.

Bisbee

Bisbee is a historic and former copper mining town in Cochise County with a population of just below 5,000. Secluded but not entirely dry, the city has many enticing features for visitors, especially for history and geology enthusiasts. History buffs can start with the Cochise County Courthouse, a striking architectural masterpiece built in the Art Deco style. Next is the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, where the town's famous mining history is preserved through local artifacts and mineral exhibits. Later, visitors can experience an authentic mining experience by touring the 1,500-foot-deep Copper Queen Mine, where copper was mined for many years, leading to the town's and surrounding areas' development. If the underground feels uncomfortable, opt for a gaze into the Lavender Pit, where copper was also mined. Art lovers can explore the Sam Poe Gallery to be dazed by its remarkable collections of artworks and paintings.

Wickenburg

The small town of Wickenburg between Yavapai and Maricopa Counties is a hidden historic gem waiting to be explored. History, nature, arts, and culture all converge in this town, and visitors will be thrilled. Visitors here can start by visiting the Hassayampa River Preserve to see about 300 bird species and hike trails that wind around a lush river, floodplains, and dense forests. Next, the Desert Caballeros Western Museum invites history lovers to check out its permanent and changing exhibits, highlighting the American West's history. The town also hosts the Wickenburg Jail Tree - another historic draw where criminals were tied between 1863 and 1890. For more historic experiences, visitors can head to the Massacre Monument, a tribute to those who died during the 1871 Apache-Mohave attack. After touring these attractions, grab a healthy lunch at Hassayampa Smokehouse BBQ.

Winslow

Winslow, a beautiful town in Navajo County, may not get some of the traffic akin to Arizona's big cities. However, it can boast a handful of unique attractions and things to do for visitors who look beyond the bigger cities. The iconic Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is just one of this town’s nearby wondrous attractions that sits at 5,640 feet above sea level. This is a US National Natural Landmark and is regarded by some experts as one of the best-preserved meteorite craters on Earth. The Old Trails Museum is another attraction in town where visitors can explore a range of memorabilia and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the area's earliest history. Otherwise, a walk through First Street Pathway Park, a landscaped pathway that stretches across six city blocks featuring historic exhibits and cultural elements, would be worthwhile. Afterward, enjoy lunch at McDonald’s.

Sedona

Sedona is a naturally stunning town within the Coconino National Forest, brimming with natural sights and wonders. The city is remarkable for its red sandstone formations that set the stage for a range of outdoor activities like sightseeing and hiking. Once here, visitors can start from the Chapel of the Holy Cross - one of its foremost attractions sandwiched in between red sandstone buttes and striking the eyes with its architectural magnificence. Next, adventurers can head to Cathedral Rock, a series of dramatic red sandstone buttes standing like pillars and one of the most photographed sights in the state. Visitors can hike the Cathedral Rock trail to see this iconic rock formation or enjoy beautiful views from Red Rock State Park. In the meantime, Red Rock State Park offers guided bird watching and geology hikes to see the red rock landscapes of Sedona, including exploring a 5-mile, family-friendly trail that winds along Oak Creek. For history buffs, the Sedona Heritage Museum mirrors the town’s history through exhibits and historic programs. Art lovers and avid shoppers can grab a range of collectibles at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

Jerome

Jerome is one of the most secluded towns in Arizona, with a population of less than 500. But even with its isolated reputation, this town remains a hub of history, culture, and incredible arts. Here, visitors will be met with the Jerome State Historic Park, where exhibits and photography at the Douglas Mansion reflect the life in the town’s mining era. The Sliding Jail is another historic attraction in town that visitors will love as it was built in 1905 and can now be found more than 2oo feet from where it was first built after sliding down the mountain. Interestingly, Jerome also holds the reputation as the Wickedest Town in America but is now America’s largest ghost town, with tours available for tourists who love some spooky vibes. In the meantime, the Asylum Restaurant is a relaxing spot in town where you can enjoy American fares. Elsewhere, art lovers can kick back at the town’s two galleries - Jerome Artist’s Cooperative Gallery and Raku Gallery to savor amazing creations.

Williams

Williams is a laid-back town in Coconino County, along the Historic Route 66, and close to the South end of the Grand Canyon. The town is renowned as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon but packs a few attractions in itself. To begin, Bearizona is a drive-through Wildlife Safari Park in town, where tourists can view various animals from the comfort of their vehicles. Some of the wildlife to see in the park include Jaguar, Grizzly Bear, Raccoon, bobcat, American Bison, and Arctic Wolf. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway from the historic Williams Depot to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park to explore this wondrous natural American gem. For history buffs, the Pete's Route 66 Gas Station Museum tells the story and history of this iconic American route and how it has remodeled the culture of its surrounding areas. Fans of the arts can stop at the Williams Gallery to explore and purchase some of the state’s fascinating artworks.

Embrace the serenity and natural splendor of secluded towns in Arizona, where the air is less stuffy, noise is kept at bay, and nature is unsullied. Maximize the close-knit community rapport of these small towns where most people know themselves to form unbreakable bonds. Kick back at historical attractions, embark on adventures in picturesque landscapes, relish the culture and arts, and lose track of time. From Jerome to Show Low and Sedona, there is no shortage of things to do and sights to see; just come with an open heart and be blown away.