These 10 Towns in Arizona Have Beautiful Architecture
Arizona is one of the most famous states in the US, partly because of its dramatic and intriguing landscapes, with the Grand Canyons on the front lines. But beyond the canyons and their undeniable grandeur, Arizona is steeped in history and boasts an impressive architectural splendor. Across its small towns, several historic districts host magnificent old-world architecture ranging from Victorian and Spanish Revival to Romanesque and Italianate. From the elegant and enduring structures on the hills in Sedona to the Romanesque glory of the downtown in Williams, Arizona is beautiful in architecture. Without further ado, here are 10 towns in Arizona that steal the show when it comes to architectural beauty.
Wickenburg
The scenic town of Wickenburg in Maricopa and Yavapai Counties has rivers flowing on its east and west ends, while quaint architecture lies within its downtown. Here, century-old buildings dot the streets in pristine architectural glory, some of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Some of these structures, mostly found in Frontier Street, include - Jacob's House (built in 1900), Santa Fe Railroad Depot (built in 1895), Vernetta Hotel (opened in 1905), and Garcia School (built in 1905). After exploring the historic structures, visit the Desert Caballeros Western Museum and be stunned by over 400 works of Western art. Also, check out the Jail Tree, a 200-year-old Mesquite tree, which is beyond a plant but a significant historic attraction as it once served as the town's jail.
Florence
Florence is one of the oldest towns in Pinal County, renowned for its unique and impressive array of iconic buildings dating back to the 19th century. A walk through its old Historic Downtown will expose visitors to 25 historic buildings under the National Register of Historic Places. These structures are architecturally stunning, notably the First Pinal County Courthouse and Second Pinal County Courthouse. Others include the Silver King Hotel (built in 1876) and the Conrad Brunenkant City Bakery Building (built in 1890). For some history about Florence, visit the Pinal County Historical Museum. Chill afterward at the Windmill Winery on the banks of two charming lakes, where guests can sample different wines at the tasting room and lodge at the Lake House.
Globe
Globe, a small town in Gila County, is where visitors with an eye for architectural beauty will have a field day exploring. This ancient mining town has a downtown historic district filled with imposing and attractive architectural masterpieces. These include - St. John’s Episcopal Church (Gothic revival), Gila County Courthouse (Italian Rennaissance style), and Elks Building (Romanesque style). These buildings are historically significant and are on the National Register of Historic Places. Also, art lovers can immerse themselves in the town’s dazzling art scene at the Cobre Valley Arts Center, which showcases works of local artists. For even more history, visitors can visit the Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park one mile southwest to see Salado Indian Ruins, pottery, artifacts, and an ethnobotanical garden.
Sedona
Sedona is an outdoor paradise in Coconino National Forest with dramatic scenery defined by red sandstone formations and streets dotted by charming ancient architecture. The town has about 23 historic landmarks, but a few stand out for their unique architecture. These include the Chapel of the Holy Cross (built in 1956), the Jordan Sales Building (built in 1938), and Sedona Public Library (established in 1964). After visiting these unique structures, enjoy the town’s charming outdoors by hiking to Bell Rock Vortex or Boyton Canyon to marvel at beautiful red rock formations. Before leaving, head to Out of Africa Wildlife Park to watch as Bengal Tigers splash into the waters.
Nogales
Nogales is a prominent historic town in Santa Cruz County, on the US-Mexican border, with Nogales, Sonora, in Mexico, located on the other side of the border wall. This town is home to interesting districts and main streets like the Crawford Hill Historic Residential District which is decorated by buildings representing all periods of the area’s history. Take a walk through these places to see interesting structures like the George B. Marsh Building (built in 1905) and the Arizona-Sonora Manufacturing Company Machine Shop (built in 1901). Next, learn more about the town's history at the Primeria Alta Historical Society and Museum. Mix the experience with a dash of outdoor beauty and adventure at Pena Blanca Lake, which offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, camping, and hiking.
Douglas
Douglas is a charming small town by the US-Mexican border with spectacular downtown architecture. Visitors will find several buildings representing Queen Anne, Period and Spanish Revival, and Bungalow architectural styles reigning in ancient glory at the town's Douglas Historic District. The Gadsden Hotel (built in 1907) and the Grand Theater (built in 1919) are worthy mentions. The Samson Hotel is also architecturally significant as it is a great example of an early adobe hotel.
After exploring the town's architectural offerings, art lovers can visit the Douglas Arts Association to see exhibits and purchase local crafts. Meanwhile, adventurous visitors can hike, bike, hunt, watch birds, and spot wildlife at the San Bernardino Wildlife Refuge, just 20 minutes away from the town.
Tombstone
Tombstone is a beautiful town in Cochise County where lovers of historic architecture will be thrilled. This town's historic district is home to many buildings of eye-catching architectural grandeur, like the Cochise County Courthouse (constructed in 1882) and Schieffelin Hall (the largest standing adobe structure in the American Southwest built in 1881). Explore these stunning structures and then proceed to explore an 1800s Silver Mine 100 feet below the ground with Good Enough Mine Tours. For more history, head to the Rose Tree Museum, adjacent to the world's largest rose tree, and explore original Tombstone artifacts at the museum.
Bisbee
Bisbee is a historic mining town in Cochise County, remarkable for its architectural marvels. From Italianate and Spanish Revival to Colonial and Mission Revival, the historic downtown of Bisbee is riddled with so many architectural styles. Some top structures to check out include - St. Patrick's Catholic Church (built in 1915), the Copper Queen Library and Post Office (built in 1906), and the Pythian Castle. Before leaving, embark on a Copper Queen Mine tour to explore a century-old underground complex and learn about the area’s mining history. When it's time to refill, head to the Bisbee Breakfast Club for some tasty brunch.
Williams
Williams is a charming town in Coconino County with so much to love. The town is particularly loved for its architectural masterpieces, most of which can be seen in the Williams Historic Business District. This district contains incredible 19th and early 20th-century vernacular architecture combining Victorian Romanesque and Renaissance Revival elements. Some top structures in this district include - the Fray Marcos Hotel (built in 1908), Citizens Bank (built in 1918), and Grand Canyon Hotel (opened in 1891). In addition to the stunning structures, Williams also features the popular Bearizona Wildlife Park, home to wildlife such as wolves, elks, bison, and bears, among others. For visiting families, enjoy the mountain coaster rides at Canyon Coaster Adventure Park.
Prescott
Prescott is a bigger town that passes for a city but spots a laid-back ambiance and preserved ancient structures. Here, visitors will be met with historic districts featuring several Victorian-era homes, as well as many buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Some architecturally stunning structures to see in this town include - the Elks Building and Theater (built in 1904), Hassayampa Inn (completed in 1927), and Yavapai County Courthouse (built in 1916). Away from its grand architecture, check out the architecturally stunning Falcon Nest - the tallest single-family home in North America. For outdoor fun and scenic charms, head to Watson or Lynx Lake to swim, kayak, hike, fish, or enjoy picnics by the banks of blue waters.
The Grand Canyon State holds more scenic charms beyond its red sandstone cliffs. Away from Phoenix and Tucson, there are glorious architectural masterpieces scattered across the small towns of this state. Still reigning in their ancient elegance and imperial allure, these architectural offerings are pure delights. In addition, they are markers of the past and enduring legacies of skilled architects who beat the odds of their time to create excellent structures for the future.
