Do you ever wonder if the old western town feeling can be captured in our modern towns? Have you ever thought that visiting a western town like you see in the movies would be applicable to today? Well, look no further! Wickenburg, Arizona is just the town you are dreaming of. I have had the wonderful experience of going to high school in Wickenburg and I could not have asked for a better town to discover what I am really made of. Here, you can find the superb feeling of a small town culture with a western twist.
SEMI FINALIST 2013 FTF TEEN TRAVEL WRITING SCHOLARSHIP
The first thing I would show you here is the amazing landscape and views. Wickenburg used to be an old mining town in the 1800s. In fact, there is still a mine named Vulture Mine that is open for tours. Near the mine is the amazing sight of Vulture Peak. I have had the privilege of hiking this mountain and it is a must do if you are in town! To capture the western feel of Wickenburg, be sure to visit the Desert Caballeros Museum Park located in the heart of the downtown area. This museum is spectacular, providing you with legitmate facts about the interesting history of Wickenburg. Something you will notice as you venture around the downtown area are the many statues along the sidewalks. These are part of the interactive tour. These characters are historic figures of my amazing town. On the Wickenburg website, you will be see a digital map that is also available at the Town Hall. This map shows you the locations of the said characters.
The big tourist period for Wickenburg is in fall, winter, and spring months as it is cool enough to experience the town in full. Snowbirds or families and elderly people whom travel from the north to the southern states during the winter months in hopes to escape the cold are what keep Wickenburg thriving. Many of these snowbirds are rodeo folk. You can find that many horse arenas around town will hold roping events every week. An attraction to see is the Annual Gold Rush Days in February. While at the Gold Rush Days, you will experience a parade, rodeo, live music, exhibitor booths, fair rides, and much more. This is a very popular event held each year. Thousands from all over Arizona attend!
Food is probably one of the best aspects about a vacation and let me tell you, Wickenburg has plenty of tasty restaurants to offer. The most popular restaurant that you will be told to visit by any tourist who has been there is Anita's Mexican Restaurant! I can vouch for those guests, it is one of the best places to eat lunch or dinner. But if your taste buds are longing for barbeque, you will have to be sure to scope out the hole-in-the wall Hog Trough located on the main drag. They have some tasty meats and the best pulled pork sandwiches. If you are looking for more of a traditional American meal be sure to visit Screamer's Drive-In located a bit further north off the US-60 also known as Wickenburg Way. Screamer's has been in town for quite some time and has the best burgers and milk shakes around. However, if you are in the mood for a contemporary place to spend your evening, drop in the Wickenburg Feed Company for a tasty meal and great experience. Wickenburg Feed Company is new to town, but has surely made themselves present to all. They have wonderful service and an amazing environment! Fun for all!
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.