The enticing, family-friendly Fort Verde State Historic Park formerly served as a military base during the Central Arizona Indian Wars. Some of the well-preserved building dating back to the 1800s stand testament to the rich history of the site. Embracing the period fort area a variety of desert plants and wildlife, which include the likes of mesquite trees, prickly pear cacti, coyotes and javelinas. Apart from enjoying the serene environs, you can also head to the on-site museum, which is set within the former Military Headquarters. The visitor center nearby is yet another informative and fun spot to marvel at authentic relics and learn about the stirring era of Indian War.
Camp Verde is rich in prehistoric sites, and the Verde Valley Archaeology Center and Museum is one of the best destinations to marvel at and learn about them. History buffs will surely appreciate the deep insight about American Indian history at the center. Found on site here is a fascinating museum that houses the Paul Dyck Rockshelter Collection Exhibit as a permanent collection. Apart from this, one can also find temporary exhibits chronicling varied aspects of prehistoric life in Camp Verde and life and times of the Yavapai-Apache tribes.
While the mining industry that catapulted Jerome into the limelight and shaped it into the town it is today is a major highlight here, the Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum also aims to preserve and illustrate the lifestyle as it prevailed in the past. Informative exhibits and displays capture the town's essence and offer a glimpse at its beginnings as a mining center and its transformation into a popular tourist attraction over the years. Examine newspapers, photographs, tools, objects associated with gambling, and antique artifacts, among others. The museum also endeavors to illuminate the diverse cultural identities and ethnicities woven into the town's fabric.
Standing tall at an elevation of 7,818 feet (2,383 meters), Mingus Mountain towers above the lush green landscape of Prescott National Forest. Comprising of beautiful pine forests, the mountain makes for a splendid recreational area where visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. On a tour of the forest, visit the Mingus Mountain area and spend an idyllic time as you bask in its natural beauty. Hike, bike or ride through the winding trails, have a picnic under the shade of cool pines, try your hand at hang gliding, hunting or paragliding, or simply take in the beautiful views it has to offer.
Travel by rail through protected wilderness reservations and view Sinagua Indian ruins. Experience the main mode of transportation during the area's bustling mining days, when the first railroad was completed in 1882. This family-friendly opportunity is worth the trip to Clarkdale. On Friday evenings, treat yourself to the Grape Train Escape wine-tasting tour, and on Saturday nights, try the romantic Starlight Tour.
With an elevation of nearly 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), the Slide Rock State Park features a 30-foot (9.14 meter) natural rockslide within the creek. Take a couple of hours and enjoy the nature walk while you relax under the Arizona sunshine. Visit the onsite market. Camping and hotel accommodations are offered in Oak Creek and nearby Sedona. Swimming is allowed, however, water quality varies, so visitors are advised to verify the accessibility in advance. Whether it's sliding down the waterslide, swimming in Oak Creek, hiking through the canyon, or enjoying a picnic amidst the stunning scenery, visitors to Slide Rock State Park will find a blend of adventure and natural beauty that makes it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists alike.