Do you want to explore historical and quaint places in the United States but don’t know where to start? Here is an ultimate checklist of the five smallest towns of the southwestern region of the country that are a must-visit. You can cover the places on a weekend without emptying your pockets. So, take a look and enjoy the serenity and culture of these places.
Bisbee, Arizona
Leaving Arizona without visiting Bisbee is similar to visiting France and not tasting the delicious croissants. Bisbee was a mining town in the early 1900s, turned into a rich city with a cute main street. The town offers mysterious historical tours like the Queen Mine Tour. It is a must-do activity as it offers a glance into the historic copper miners’ lives. You’ll be given a hardhat and miner’s headlamp before descending 1,500 feet underground on a mine railway. The journey takes place into the cold darkness that is both thrilling and worthy for every visitor, especially on a hot summer day.
Durango, Colorado
Durango is an adorable mountain town situated in the southwestern part of Colorado. This small town has a limited population of around 20,000 people, sitting at an altitude of 6,512. Being a mountain city, the temperature of Durango doesn’t get too hot. It is one of the most prevalent towns for its historic Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway. In the 1800s, the train used to carry over $300 Million worth of precious metals and is now an amazing testament to the city’s history.
Joshua Tree, California
Joshua Tree is actually a tiny desert town. If you are out exploring Joshua Tree National Park, stopping to admire the beauty of California’s city will be worthwhile. For a proper experience, hike the Boy Scout Trail or the Barker Dam. Take a walk around the town, and get some treats at Natural Sisters Café or try sipping coffee at Joshua Tree Coffee Company. Hence, visiting the picturesque village is undoubtedly worth your time.
Taos, New Mexico
Taos is one of New Mexico’s breathtaking towns, belonging to the northern side. It is filled with Spanish-colonial architecture going back to the ’80s. You can explore nature, artwork, many historical sites, and outdoor recreation that the city has to offer. When visiting Taos, indulging in its thriving community would give tourists the ultimate experience. It is situated in Taos Pueblo, which has been a UNESCO World Historical site for more than 1,000 years.
Virginia City, Nevada
Virginia City has a history dating back 150 years when Henry Comstock discovered the silver deposit in 1859. It is one of Nevada’s most significant historical towns, with architectural structures and sites built in the 19th century. Discover the mine sites or structures like the Fourth Ward School Museum, which has been there since 1876. Riding on the old Virginia and Truckee Railroad will make you feel like you are living history.