10 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Arizona You Must Explore

Last Updated on March 12, 2023 by Nikki Jain

Searching for the most beautiful small towns in Arizona? You've come to the right place!

Small towns are some of the most intriguing and immersive dives into history, arts, architecture, nature, and so much more. And with Arizona’s claim to natural beauty fame, it should come as no surprise that this copper state is chock full of options.

However, options are only as good as the chart-toppers. Check out this list of the top ten charming small towns in Arizona to see what all the love is about.

Best Small Towns in Arizona

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1: Tombstone

Tombstone
Flickr/Mike McBey

Nestled in all the warmth of a small town in Arizona, Tombstone is the perfect destination for a fun and fascinating getaway.

Tombstone’s title attraction is the wild west aesthetic they have preserved through the years. This is a town that makes history come alive through several activities that invite all ages to share the fun.

A great many of the buildings in this town have been preserved through the years, and still hold the old town essence so essential to a Western theme.

There are numerous restaurants, stores, museums, and more that take what history gave us and enhance the experience for those who venture into it.

Even more enticing, maybe, is that Tombstone is still considered a relatively ‘small town’. The rustic red-yellow glow of Arizona enchants the scene to make this one of the most beautiful stops in the West.

Visitors don’t have to worry about battling crowds or that excessive headache that comes from dealing with big cities and can simply enjoy all that Tombstone has to offer.

Be sure to check out title attractions like OK Corral (the site of a famous 1881 shoot-out), Allen Street (where horse-drawn carriages are the norm), and the haunting Boothill Graveyard.

Address: Tombstone, AZ

Also Read: The Most Beautiful Small Towns in America


2: Bisbee

Bisbee
Flickr/Mobilus In Mobili

High on the list of most beautiful small towns in Arizona is the ethereal and historical Bisbee.

Bisbee is a town known for some of the best year-round weather and that cozy, dusty Arizona comfort.

Standing at just about 6000 people, Bisbee is a comfortable medium between small-town comforts and enough attractions and utilities to keep visitors satisfied.

One of the best things to do here is just to walk. More specifically, the acclaimed Bisbee walking tour takes you from iconic site to iconic site and showcases all that Bisbee offers.

Address: Bisbee, AZ


3: Cottonwood

Cottonwood
Flickr/Scottb211

Affectionately coined the “Biggest Little Town in the State of Arizona”, Cottonwood is a true gem. This cozy little AZ treasure is famously known for a couple of great things.

Activities for the whole family, like outdoor events on the Verde River. Kayaking, canoeing, viewing, and so much more make a day on the lake a lifelong memory. Or, things for adults to find the true meaning of a little R&R.

Cottonwood is known as one of the spirit capitals of Arizona and features all the best in tasting, tours, and taps.

And if that’s not enough, Cottonwood has all the draws of a small town with all the comforts of a tourist destination.

Cozy, mom-and-pop restaurants line the streets, and comfortable, affordable hotels and RV Parks dot the downtown. Families, couples, students, honeymoons, vacations, and so much more are proud to call Cottonwood a dream destination.

Address: Cottonwood, AZ


4: Jerome

Jerome
Flickr/Mike McBey

Join the culture in Jerome! This small town in Arizona comes with a big personality. Founded all the way back in 1876, Jerome has been a one-of-a-kind town for years.

The history here is rich, with all the stories of booms and busts to make it into the charming hub it is today.

Around the early 1900s, this small town was one of the biggest in all of Arizona. It was particularly known for its mines. So popular, that when the mines closed in 1953, Jerome became a famed ghost town.

Fast forward a few years, and Jerome is back on the incline. Restored back to its natural beauty and preserving most of its original landmarks, today Jerome is nothing short of an adventure.

Nowadays, Jerome is a cultural hub--- not just from its history, but of its modernity too. There are art walks, galleries, showcases, restaurants, events, spirit tours, and so much more. Jerome makes a name for itself.

Address: Jerome, AZ

Also Read: The Most Beautiful Small Towns in America


5: Prescott

Prescott
Flickr/Mike McBey

Cradled by some of the best preserves in the state, Prescott is an outdoor explorer’s haven.

With near-perfect weather year-round and pristine trails to trek, Prescott is one stop you’ll never want to leave.

It is considered one of the gorgeous small towns in Arizona, and with good reason.

Come any season, and you’re sure to see something different and breathtaking in its unique way.

Be sure to check out some of the towering mountains, sprawling meadows, and glistening lakes to see what makes Prescott such an Arizona treasure.

Address: Prescott, AZ


6: Wickenburg

Wickenburg
Flickr/Christine Olson

Wind down in Wickenburg! This is one of the most attractive small towns in Arizona that makes vacationing relaxing again.

With a wide variety of options catered to the tourist, Wickenburg is proud to offer something for everyone.

It is specifically known for some of its unique and immersive Western experiences.

So much so that Wickenburg is considered the Dude Ranch Capital of Arizona. That means you can gallop on your noble stead and learn to line dance all in the comforts of the wild, wild West.

It’s even modernized to include some luxury items like spas or world-class golf courses.

Address: Wickenburg, AZ


7: Globe

Globe
Flickr/David Quigley

Travel the globe! Well, the city at least. Globe is a lovely small town in Southern Arizona that is brimming with opportunities for adventure.

The mountains here slope and spread for miles on magnificent miles, and the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.

For those looking for a little nature 1-on-1, try the Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive. This will take you to a spectacular view of true geological wonder. Tourists and locals alike make this trek to see some of Mother Nature’s best work.

If that’s not enough, Globe is also known for some detailed, rich, and featured history. One of its title attractions lies with the Besh Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park.

This includes the iconic Salado pueblo that dates back hundreds of years ago and is still available for viewing today. This is even an interactive attraction, making learning fun for the whole family.

And for those looking for a little bit of inspiration, check out the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts. The scenery isn’t the only thing that makes Globe beautiful.

Address: Globe, AZ


8: Carefree

Carefree
Flickr/tequilamike

Carefree and loving it! Carefree is one of the best small towns in Arizona to spend some relaxing fun in the sun.

With a downtown that’s just the right side of stocked, architecture to die for, and that famed Arizona skyline… Carefree is the place to be.

Some major draws to this wonderful little town include their title events. Things like art and culture festivals, foodie tours, art galleries, and so much more. What’s so spectacular about Carefree is that everything is kept fresh.

And all this happens within the numbers of a ‘small town’ attraction. Here you won’t feel that downtown headache or multi-hour-long lines just to get a seat at lunch.

Instead, carefree does all the stressing for you. Take a nice stroll down Easy Street (literally!) and check out some of the one-of-a-kind boutiques that call Carefree home. Live your life Carefree!

Address: Carefree, AZ


9: Williams

Williams
Flickr/dconvertini

The call of the wild, in Williams! Williams is found nestled in the throes of the Kaibab National Forest.

Featuring lush greens, browns, and golds, this is truly a sight like no other. Stand at the base of trees with the canopy hanging over you--- creating that soft harmony only nature can.

And do it all by the heart and soul small town named Williams. This town is an essential stop for anybody who prides themselves on embracing the outdoorsy spirit.

There is fishing, cross-country skiing, hiking, bird watching, and more that makes Williams such a landmark stop.

Feel the whisper of the wind as you trek up these paths and take the kind of pictures you’ll want to frame. Williams is one charming Arizona small town you’ll never forget.

Address: Williams, AZ


10: Camp Verde

Camp Verde
Flickr/Ken Lund

Camp Verde is the kind of camp everybody wants to attend. With its sunny but not stifling temperatures, lush wildlife, and abundance of activities, Camp Verde makes a true name for itself in the small-town game.

This city is especially great for those who want to spend their time partaking in some true Arizona fun.

Things like wilderness hikes, cultural heritage events, and wine tasting are just some of the featured specialties that Camp Verde is known for.

And all of that is not even considering the classy, comfortable, and affordable hotel and overnight stay options that make Camp Verde your home away from home. Enjoy your time at Camp.

Address: Camp Verde, AZ


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