Arizona’s downtown district tells the story of the American West while also offering modern culture and commerce. From preserved Wild West streets to sophisticated city squares, these eight downtown areas showcase the state’s diverse character. Each neighborhood has its own unique personality, offering visitors and residents a fascinating mix of the Grand Canyon State’s history, dining, shopping, and entertainment.

scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is a perfect blend of Western tradition and modern sophistication. From the gallery-lined Marshall Way Arts District to the boutique-filled Fifth Avenue Shopping District, each of the district’s nine walkable neighborhoods has its own unique character. Its centerpiece, Scottsdale Fashion Square, was recently expanded and transformed into an upscale shopping and dining destination that attracts many people.

The Spirit of the West on Brown Avenue: The Scottsdale Museum of the West showcases the region’s frontier history through interactive exhibits and an impressive collection of Native American art. The weekly Art Walk turns Thursday nights into a cultural extravaganza, with galleries open until late and street performers adding to the festive atmosphere. The entertainment district comes alive after dark, with rooftop lounges and craft cocktail bars attracting a sophisticated crowd. Civic Center Plaza offers a tranquil contrast with landscaped gardens and public art installations, including the iconic LOVE sculpture. The locally popular FnB restaurant showcases the bounty of Arizona agriculture through an award-winning wine program featuring only Arizona-grown vintages.

Prescott

Courthouse Plaza forms one of Arizona’s most authentic downtown districts, where historic architecture forms a fun community gathering space. Unlike many western towns that have modernized their historic districts, Prescott has preserved the Victorian-era buildings of Whiskey Row and transformed the former saloons into charming shops, restaurants, and bars. The town is known for having several historically significant bars that still serve drinks from centuries-old mahogany counters.

Arizona’s oldest frontier saloon, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon continues to operate in its original 1877 location, complete with period furniture and the entertaining tales of Doc Holliday’s gambling days. Courthouse Plaza hosts more than 130 annual events, from summer evening concerts to the area’s largest craft festival. Antique shops on Montezuma Street display treasures from the area’s mining and ranching history, and modern galleries showcase contemporary artists from the Southwest. The Prescott Center for the Arts, housed in the former Sacred Heart Church, is one of Arizona’s most distinctive venues, presenting theatrical productions year-round. The renovated Hassayampa Inn welcomes visitors to the Peacock Room, which combines Art Deco elegance with contemporary cuisine in an atmosphere reminiscent of 1920s Arizona charm.

jerome

Clinging to Cleopatra Hill, downtown Jerome subverts typical Main Street conventions with its switchback layout and historic mining-era architecture. Once the “Worst Town in the West,” this town has been transformed into an arts mecca with galleries, wineries, and quirky boutiques housed in century-old buildings. Steep roads and historic staircases create an atmosphere more reminiscent of a European mountainside village than a typical Arizona town.

The Jerome Artist Cooperative Gallery occupies a former hotel building in town and features the work of more than 35 local artists across three floors of exhibition space. Spook Hall, a former J.C. Penney building, hosts community events and ghost tours that celebrate the town’s vibrant reputation. The Mining Museum provides context for Jerome’s stunning architecture through exhibits detailing the town’s copper mining heyday. A local favorite, Haunted Burger offers spectacular views and creative cuisine from its perch overlooking the Verde Valley. Jerome Winery’s tasting room transforms a historic storefront into a sophisticated space where visitors can sample Arizona wines while enjoying million-dollar views.

tombstone

Tombstone’s downtown district, nicknamed “Too Tough to Die,” offers an immersive journey through the traditions of the American West. Preserved to reflect its 1880s appearance, Allen Street captures the authentic character of frontier Arizona better than any Hollywood movie set. Unlike typical tourist towns, Tombstone maintains its historic integrity while offering modern amenities that create an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

The OK Corral Historical Complex brings the famous gunfight to life through daily reenactments at the actual locations where Earp and Doc Holliday faced off against the Clanton Gang. The Bird Cage Theater has remained largely unchanged since 1889, offering guided tours of what was once called “the wildest and wickedest night spot between Basin Street and the Barbary Coast.” Every preserved aspect of downtown tells a story, from the volcanic rock sidewalks to the original bar inside Big Nose Kate Saloon. The Crystal Palace Saloon has restored the elegance of its territory, offering modern patrons the original bar that opened in 1879 and offering one of the best dining experiences in the area in a truly historic setting. We offer one. When visiting Arizona to understand the history of the American West, Tombstone is a must-see.

Lake Havasu City

Downtown Lake Havasu City is an unexpected blend of British and Arizona, centered around the world-famous London Bridge. The Bridgewater Channel area has evolved into a vibrant waterfront promenade where desert and lake cultures meet. Unlike most Arizona downtowns, which focus on historic preservation, Lake Havasu embraces its unique identity as a waterfront playground with a decidedly British twist. There is no other town quite like it in America.

The English Village retains its Tudor architecture, but includes modern shops, restaurants and waterfront bars. Channel Walk is a mile-long scenic path connecting downtown attractions, with regular water taxi service joining the featured transportation options. During the winter, the Winter Street Market transforms McCulloch Boulevard into a festival of local artisans and performers. The newly developed Rotary Beach Park anchors the downtown waterfront scene with a swimming beach, picnic areas, and popular weekend concerts. Shugrue’s Restaurant and Brewery, a local favorite, offers panoramic views of the bridge with fresh seafood, a rarity in the Arizona desert. If you’re looking for a unique family-friendly vacation spot, check out Lake Havasu City.

bullhead city

Bullhead City’s downtown district, along the Colorado River, offers a unique blend of waterfront activities and desert town charm. Unlike many river towns that limit access to the waterfront, downtown Bullhead City is a riverfront neighborhood with a series of connected parks and trails where the Colorado River is an integral part of daily life. I like the location. A community park anchors the neighborhood with a newly developed riverfront promenade dotted with palm trees and desert landscapes.

Bullhead City is truly a pedestrian’s dream. If you want to ditch your car for the day, this is the place to be. The Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park and Trail System winds through downtown, connecting a series of observation decks and recreation areas. Local restaurants have created popular outdoor dining spaces that take advantage of river views and desert sunsets. The Riverside Drive corridor is home to a variety of shops and services, and the weekly Desert River Farmers Market attracts area producers and artisans.

flagstaff

Historic Route 66 forms the backbone of downtown Flagstaff, where mountain town culture meets railroad history and university energy. Unlike the desert regions of the south, downtown Flagstaff benefits from pine forests and four distinct seasons. Heritage Square serves as the area’s cultural hub, hosting everything from summer movie nights to winter holiday celebrations against the town’s signature mountain backdrop.

Built in 1911, the restored Orpheum Theater hosts an entertainment scene that includes live music and film screenings in a beautifully preserved setting. Locally-owned brewpubs like Historic Brewing and Mother Road occupy historic buildings, creating quirky spaces that pay homage to the town’s railroad history while offering modern flavors. At First Friday ArtWalk, artists and performers take advantage of the District’s walkable layout to transform downtown into an open-air gallery. Diablo Burger is a staple of downtown’s farm-to-table dining scene, serving locally sourced ingredients in a space that captures Flagstaff’s casual mountain town vibe.

williams

The last town on Route 66 bypassed by Interstate 40, Williams maintains one of Arizona’s most intact historic downtown districts. The Grand Canyon Railroad Depot sits at the western end of Route 66, and vintage trains still depart daily for the South Rim. While many towns along Route 66 struggle to stay relevant, Williams has managed to balance tourist appeal with authentic small-town character.

This historic district spans six blocks of original brick buildings and is now home to an eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum recreates the golden age of the Mother Road through a collection of vintage cars and memorabilia. Open since 1912, Sultana Bar retains its original tin ceiling and long mahogany bar, serving as a living museum of Western saloon culture. Cowboy action shows entertain people in the streets during the summer, and there are plenty of restaurants downtown. Williams Depot, with its restored platforms and vintage rolling stock, attracts railroad enthusiasts year-round. This is one of the few remaining fully restored historic train depots in America, adding to the overall charm and character of Williams.

From Scottsdale’s sophisticated art scene to Williams’ nostalgic Route 66, Arizona’s downtown districts showcase the state’s Western cultural heritage. Each area maintains its unique character while offering a fascinating combination of history, dining, shopping and entertainment. All eight downtown districts prove that Arizona’s urban spaces can be just as fascinating as its natural wonders. When making plans to visit these adorable, historic, and fun Western downtowns, be sure to pack your camera and comfortable walking shoes.