A small historic and scenic community that grew up along the Verde River, Cottonwood is another great spot to visit in Central Territory. Once called "The biggest little town in Arizona," Cottonwood is the ideal spot to stay while visiting other area attractions. You will find so much to do in this part of central Arizona, such as visiting ancient Indian ruins, historic parks and landmarks and ghost towns.
Things to do in Cottonwood
Clemenceau Heritage Museum in Cottonwood AZ
A museum of the regional historical society that acquires, preserves, and presents historically significant materials from the local communities in and around the Verde Valley. Principal subjects include mining, logging, and railroad development. On display are photographs, maps, oral histories, farm implements, domestic items, clothing, sports memorabilia, and building replicas. The museum is located in the historic Clemenceau School. Best Western Cottonwood AZ lodging is nearby. Call 928-634-2868 for more information.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood AZ
There are no dead horses at this beautiful park situated alongside the Verde River just across from downtown Cottonwood, only an abundance of life. The developed portion of Dead Horse Ranch State Park covers 423 acres. The 3,300 foot elevation accounts for the mild temperatures that are ideal for mountain biking, hiking along the river, canoeing, picnicking, fishing, bird-watching or just wading in the cool water. Best Western Cottonwood AZ lodging is nearby. Call 520-639-0312 for more information.
Montezuma Castle National Monument near Cottonwood AZ
Perched away in a limestone recess high above the flood plain of Beaver Creek in the Verde Valley stands one of the best preserved cliff dwellings in North America. The five-story, 20-room cliff dwelling served as home to the prehistoric Sinagua Indians over 600 years ago. Early settlers to the area assumed that the imposing structure was associated with the Aztec emperor Montezuma, but the castle was abandoned almost a century before Montezuma was born. Best Western Cottonwood AZ lodging is nearby. Call 928-567-3322 for more information.
Tuzigoot National Monument near Cottonwood AZ
About two miles northwest of Cottonwood lay the ruins of a magnificent 110-room pueblo with second and third story structures built by the Sinagua peoples during the 13th Century. The first buildings were built around A.D. 1000. The Sinagua were agriculturalists with trade connections that spanned hundreds of miles. The people left the area around 1400. The site is currently comprised of 42 acres. The trail walk takes you to a 120-foot-high ridge, where you'll get a commanding view of the Verde Valley. Best Western Cotton wood AZ lodging is nearby. Call 928-634-5564 for more information.
Verde Canyon Railway near Cottonwood AZ
Take a ride onboard one of America's few remaining historical passenger trains - the Verde Canyon Railway near Cottonwood AZ. Day-trip passengers get to view a magnificent canyon filled with history, geology and archeology. These climate-controlled cars with panoramic windows showcase the beautiful red rock formations and cottonwood trees that surround the area. Much of this spectacular Arizona scenery is only viewable by rail. Best Western Cottonwood AZ lodging is nearby.