When it comes to historic Arizona towns, nothing beats Douglas. This border community has both mining and military roots and has many old homes and buildings that offer an insight into its rich and fascinating past. Find out the best things to do in Douglas, Arizona and why it’s a great day trip.
A small border town in Cochise County, Douglas is a history buff’s paradise.
First settled by Spanish explorers in the 18th century, it has been used for many years as a US military camp and a copper smelter.
Downtown Douglas looks much the same as it did centuries ago.
Historic buildings line the streets, with weathered but sturdy façades frozen in time.
A tour of the Douglas Williams House Museum provides a glimpse into the town’s rich past. Now the headquarters of the Douglas Historical Society, the house was built in 1909 by copper mining tycoon James S. Douglas.
Exterior of the Grand Theater, a 1919 building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The theater once hosted countless live productions, film screenings, and graduations for local high schools.
Celebrities such as Ginger Rogers and John Philip Sousa have performed on stage here. The theater is no longer in operation and is considered endangered due to significant damage, but is in the process of being restored.
The hotel was designed with the mining executives and other heavyweights of the time in mind, but has become a local icon that attracts visitors from across the state.
The lobby is grand and beautiful, with an Italian marble staircase, four massive pillars, and a 42-foot stained-glass window mural.
This is a day trip article, so you don’t have to spend the night, but at least stop by for a few minutes to admire the world-class architecture!
The Border Aviation Museum is another interesting place in town. After all, Douglas was home to America’s first international airport!
Visits must be arranged by direct communication with the City of Douglas, but you won’t regret the effort.In addition to old photos and memorabilia, you’ll also see historic aircraft used in Hollywood filmmaking can do.
Have you been to Douglas? If so, I’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous coverage of the nearby small town that hides his one of America’s finest restaurants.
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address: Douglas, Arizona 85607, USA
