The ruins at Wupatki National Monument
DAY FOUR: Discover the Old West
Northern Arizona’s history is entrenched in the culture of the old west. From cowboys and the frontier to ghost towns and railroad lore, this area is still steeped in old west appeal.
Historic Flagstaff walking tours take you through the haunted tales, railroad history, Route 66 nostalgia and other important happenings that made Flagstaff what it is today. Pick up informational brochures at the Flagstaff Visitor Center in the historic train station downtown.
Descend through scenic Oak Creek Canyon to the famed red rocks of Sedona to see where more than 60 Hollywood movies were filmed since 1923, including many Zane Grey novels turned films like “The Call of the Canyon.” About 20 miles from Sedona is what’s known as the largest ghost town in the US — Jerome, a National Historic District since the 1960s. Once home to gunfights, miners, and bordellos, this former “wickedest town in the west” maintains the character of a late 1890s town and now offers a robust art scene.
Families will also enjoy the old west shootouts and historical re-enactments in nearby Williams. The Wild West Junction has a working blacksmith shop and old-time jail. Visit the Bearizona drive-thru animal park for an up-close and personal look at bears, buffalo and other wildlife.
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