If you love exploring historic small towns in Arizona, definitely consider adding Cottonwood to your bucket list. This quaint community boasts one of the best Old Town districts in the state, complete with boutiques, restaurants, wineries, nature, and a rich history. After visiting, you just may want to pack up and move here!

When it comes to historic small towns in Arizona, there are few more charming than Cottonwood. Home to around 12,500 people, this quaint community is located roughly 20 miles southwest of Sedona and makes an ideal destination for a day trip or quick weekend getaway.

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There is so much to see and do in Cottonwood - particularly in its acclaimed Old Town district. Main Street alone is home to over 60 local businesses that offer everything from handmade clothing and jewelry to world-class food.

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History buffs will love seeing all the old buildings that have withstood the test of time, several of which were built during the Great Depression by the Works Progress Administration!

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Easily walkable and with great parking, Old Town Cottonwood is effortless to navigate. Whether you’re in the market for some new home goods or just want to do a little sightseeing, rest assured you’ll thoroughly enjoy your visit.

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Let your senses be your guide as you peruse the various shops and restaurants. Don’t think too much about it - if a place catches your eye, pop in and see what it has to offer.

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Cottonwood is located in the heart of Arizona Wine Country, so doing a wine tasting while you’re here is pretty much obligatory. Luckily, there are several vineyards and wineries to choose from, each one worth checking out in its own right.

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All that walking around is sure to work up an appetite. There are plenty of incredible restaurants, from the adorably retro Bing’s Burgers to fine steakhouses and pizzerias.

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Old Town Cottonwood is also a nature lover’s dream, as it’s home to the Jail Trail Riverwalk.

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Known as the “Gateway to the Verde River,” this historic route begins at an old jailhouse and follows the riverbank to Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

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If you’re planning on spending the night in town, might we suggest The Tavern Hotel? Marrying historic and modern elements, this top-notch accommodation is a must-stay.

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For more information about Old Town Cottonwood, please visit the official Old Town Cottonwood website or Facebook page.

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Have you ever explored Old Town Cottonwood? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article to learn more about Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

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Address: Old Town Cottonwood, 281 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326, USA