Nestled throughout the heart of Arizona are small, charming towns where life is slower and residents are sheltered from the hustle and bustle of large cities. Each of these small towns offers a distinct personality, featuring quaint architecture, rich history, outdoor adventures and local traditions that create a sense of close-knit community for those who live there. Here are 10 of Arizona’s charming small towns as compiled by Redfin.
1. Payson
Located within the Mogollon Rim, Payson, Ariz., provides stunning mountain views and an abundance of outdoor adventures, such as hiking, fishing and exploring the area’s natural attractions like the Tonto Natural Bridge. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Payson offers a vibrant community where locals can take part in an annual rodeo and enjoy the many shops and restaurants that line the town’s Main Street District.
2. Wickenburg
Distinct for its Old West feel, Wickenburg, Ariz., is rich with history and stories of the days of the American frontier when cowboys and settlers roamed the area. In the town’s historic district, residents and visitors can get a first-hand look at preserved buildings, Western art and other artifacts that will transport them back to the Wild West.
3. Camp Verde
Located along the beautiful banks of the Verde River, Camp Verde, Ariz., is a lovely mix of outdoor recreation, cultural heritage and community. Here, residents and visitors have access to hiking, biking, boating, wine tasting and more, as well as the Montezuma Castle National Monument which showcases ancient cliff dwellings and Native American history. Camp Verde also offers many community events that highlight the local area, including the Cornfest and Pecan and Wine Festival.
4. Winslow
A lively town along the iconic Route 66, Winslow, Ariz., is full of nostalgic landmarks and traditions that tell stories of the town’s beginnings. Here, you’ll find the Standin’ On a Corner Park in honor of the famous Eagles song and the Old Trails Museum all on the same block. Plus, annual events like the Just Cruis’n Car Show celebrate Winslow’s unique history and its significance to railroad travel and later to motorists.
5. Paulden
Tucked into the hills of Chino Valley, Paulden, Ariz., is a small town that boasts a strong rural agricultural community, lots of open space to explore the great outdoors, as well as quaint shops and restaurants. Perks to calling this place home include easy access to fresh produce and local goods from community farms and markets, as well as access to hiking, horseback riding and other activities that connect you with nature.
6. Flowing Wells
Found within the Tucson metro area, Flowing Wells, Ariz., is tucked away from the city but still close enough to enjoy the benefits of Tucson’s modern downtown and small historic district. The town offers a charming, Southwestern feel, local shops and eateries, along with a host of annual events that residents can take part in. Plus, the nearby Saguaro National Park provides ample opportunities for exploring the surrounding desert landscape.
7. Catalina
Catalina, Ariz., is also located in the Tucson Metro area, offering easy access to entertainment and more, while also providing a quiet atmosphere for residents thanks to its surrounding natural scenery. With the Coronado National Forest nearby, residents have plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful outdoors.
8. Three Points
A desert oasis in Arizona’s Pima County, Three Points is surrounded by rugged mountains and pristine desert, inviting residents to immerse themselves in its rural beauty. The community of residents in Three Points can witness an abundance of wildlife, as well as enjoy unobstructed views of the starry night skies that are often filled with meteor showers and shooting stars.
9. Holbrook
Boasting a strong sense of community, Holbrook, Ariz., is a small town in Arizona’s Navajo County that provides residents with a rural, yet charming atmosphere. The town offers many opportunities to explore its prehistoric past, including the Wigwam Motel, the Petrified Forest National Park and the nearby Painted Desert.
10. Somerton
A vibrant agricultural town bordering the Colorado River and California, Somerton, Ariz., offers many cultural experiences featuring Mexican and Native American influences, including the annual Somerton Tamale Festival. As the native region of the Cocopah Tribe, Somerton also features many different entertainment attractions, like the Cocopah Casino, Cocopah Resort & Conference Center, Cocopah Rio Colorado Golf Course, Cocopah Museum and more.
