9 Towns in Arizona with Vibrant Downtown Areas

Think you have explored all that Arizona has to offer? Think again! While Arizona’s iconic canyons, red rock formations, and desert landscapes draw the crowds, the state’s small towns, filled with history, art, and culture, deserve just as much attention. Towns rich in mining history, cowboy culture, art scenes, and Route 66 landmarks are just a few of the treasures that await travelers in these small yet vibrant towns. Dive into our guide to uncover the vibrant stories and charming locales that make Arizona’s lesser-known towns genuinely unforgettable.

Cave Creek

Cave Creek is a small, southwestern cowboy town turned modern. Visitors can explore the town’s history, including ancient peoples, ranching, and gold mining, at the Cave Creek Museum, housed in a southwest-style building. Frontier Town is another fascinating site to check out, featuring a recreated 19th-century traditional western town that visitors can immerse themselves in. The town’s Cave Creek Rodeo Days, held every spring, is a great annual event to attend, with a professional rodeo, parade, and dances. Those needing a restaurant recommendation must have a meal at Buffalo Chip Saloon, which serves beer, and barbecue, and hosts bull riding competitions!

Sedona

While Sedona offers endless outdoor adventures, from ATV rentals to horseback riding along scenic trails, its vibrant downtown area is just as exciting. There are over 80 galleries and shops to explore, making it a haven for art collectors. The Sedona Arts Center is just one excellent option where visitors can take in local art, ranging from jewelry and photography to rare works. After a day of exploring art galleries and shopping, visitors can choose from a variety of local dining options, many featuring stunning southwestern views. For example, Javelina Cantina, a popular Mexican restaurant, offers patio seating with breathtaking scenery.

Bisbee

Bisbee, historically a mining town, perfectly blends its mining history with a contemporary art scene that thrives in the city today. A tour of the Copper Queen Mine is a great way to start off a trip to Bisbee, in order to better understand the history and lifestyle of the miners who once lived in the town. To further immerse themselves in the town’s historic feel, travelers can pick one of the historic hotels in town to lodge in, such as the San Ramon Hotel. Dining options are bountiful, some local favorites include Café Roka for a hearty lunch or Screaming Banshee Pizza for dinner.

Winslow

Located along Route 66, the lively town of Winslow has gained recognition over the years through iconic songs and cultural references. At the heart of the town is the Standin’ On a Corner Park, known to be one of the most famous “corners” of Route 66, with art and a mural from the hit song, Take It Easy. On the same block, visitors will find the Old Trails Museum, which houses Western Pioneer and Native American memorabilia, much of which was donated by the town’s locals. Those in need in accommodation can spend the night in La Posada, with historic, hacienda-style architecture an public gardens that will take its guests back in time.

Flagstaff

Just an hour further west on Route 66 will take travelers to Flagstaff, filled with iconic, historic buildings that will provoke a sense of nostalgia in its visitors. Upon arriving in Flagstaff, visitors must stop by the renowned Miz Zip’s Cafe, which is a traditional American-style diner with an eclectic atmosphere and home-cooked meals. Upon exploring the town, travelers will notice various iconic Route 66 landmarks, such as the Western Hills Motel Neon Sign and the Phoenix Avenue Route 66 Mural. A little farther off the beaten path, travelers can find hidden gems in town such as Mother Road Brewing Company, which is a locally-owned brewery with a cozy tasting room and a wide selection of craft beers to try.

Tubac

Tubac may be small with a population of around 1,375 people, but it is nonetheless filled with a surprising variety of premium galleries, shops, dining options, and spas. It also has a scenic, 27-hole golf course, the Tubac Golf Resort, for those who enjoy a day on the green. Not a golfer? The resort also has a state-of-the-art wellness spa to receive a relaxing spa or facial. The town beautifully displays its history in the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Museum, which has multiple exhibits that explain the region’s last 2000 years of history, as well as original buildings from the 19th century.

Cottonwood

Cottonwood is in central Arizona and in the state’s wine country, making it an excellent escape for wine lovers. Visitors can follow the town’s Verde Valley Trail, visiting ten different vineyards and wineries along the way, even getting their wine “passport” stamped as a souvenir. Within town, jewelers, antique shops, thrift stores, and gift shops are just a few of the shopping options visitors have. Cottonwood’s “Old Town” district is one of its highlights as well, featuring southwest architecture, an array of art galleries, and more shops to check out!

Jerome

Once a copper mining town, Jerome now draws visitors with its rich history and gorgeous, hilly landscape. Downtown, the town has a rather eclectic, quirky vibe, hosting a myriad of vintage shops and Verde Valley tasting rooms. Art has become a large part of the town’s culture as well. For example, the Jerome Art Center, formerly the town’s high school, now hosts studio space for over 30 artists who rent it out! A visit to Jerome is not complete without exploring its history. Visitors can explore the Jerome State Historic Park, housed in an early 20th-century mansion that now features exhibits recounting the town's mining boom.

Payson

Although many travelers stay in Payson as a base camp before hiking, horseback riding, or biking, the central town itself is just as worthy of a visit. The town has a seasonal farmers market that takes place every Saturday morning, for example, where visitors can get a sense of the town’s community. The town offers a variety of culinary options, from American and Asian to Italian cuisine. For fine dining, Duza’s Kitchen stands out with its cozy, rustic ambiance and locally sourced ingredients. A visit to the Rim Country Museum & Zane Grey Cabin offers an excellent overview of Payson's history, starting with the land’s Native American heritage and highlighting key figures like author Zane Grey.

Discover the Small Towns of Arizona

Whether it be the spirited cowboy charm of Cave Creek or the rich, thriving art scene in Bisbee, Arizona’s small towns are filled with immersive cultural experiences, attractive to every kind of tourist. Next time you find yourself itching for a weekend away, exploring vibrant towns, do not hesitate to make travel plans for one of these nine towns.