Once home to the Sinaugua, Yavapai and Apache people, Cottonwood is a bustling city north of Phoenix. It was settled as an army outpost before developing with the discovery of copper in the area. Officially founded in 1879, the town was named after a stand of trees growing along the Verde River.
Things to do in Cottonwood
Live concerts, dance performances and comedy shows are presented at the Old Town Center For the Arts, which first opened its doors in the 1930s. It also hosts changing exhibitions about topics of local significance and features a studio where arts and crafts workshops are held. Nearby is Cottonwood’s charming Main Street, with many of its historic buildings now home to cafes, restaurants and wine bars.
You can delve into the local history at the Clemenceau Heritage Museum, which houses exhibits dedicated to the area’s ranching, farming and copper mining industries. Admire the elaborate diorama depicting the seven railroads that once operated in the area and step inside a school classroom from the 1950s. If you’re travelling with kids, don’t miss the hands-on exhibits of the Science Vortex.
On the northern edge of Cottonwood is Dead Horse Ranch State Park, which sprawls around the banks of the Verde River. It’s a popular destination for fishing and swimming in the summer months and is traversed by a network of hiking trails. In addition to providing a habitat for coyotes, deer and cottontail rabbits, around 200 species of birds have been recorded within the park.
Getting around Cottonwood
Cottonwood is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Phoenix and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Cottonwood, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.