things to do in cottonwood az

Cottonwood, Arizona, is a charming town surrounded by the beautiful Verde Valley. Here are some things to do in Cottonwood, AZ:

1. Explore the Historic Downtown: Walk along Main Street and discover unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Cottonwood Visitor Center for local information and maps.
2. Verde Canyon Railroad: Take a scenic train ride through the stunning Verde Canyon, which offers breathtaking views of the red rock formations and the Colorado River.
3. Oak Creek Canyon: Just a short drive from Cottonwood, Oak Creek Canyon is a beautiful destination for hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The canyon is also home to several waterfalls and natural swimming holes.
4. Cottonwood Marina: Enjoy water activities like boating, fishing, or kayaking at the Cottonwood Marina. You can also rent a boat or take a guided tour.
5. Sedona Red Rocks: While not in Cottonwood, Sedona is just a short drive away. Explore the stunning red rock formations, hike to scenic viewpoints, and take in the breathtaking sunsets.
6. Cottonwood Golf Course: Tee off at the Cottonwood Golf Course, a 18-hole course that offers challenging play and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Verde Valley Wine Trail: Visit several wineries and tasting rooms in the area, which offer wine tastings, tours, and beautiful views of the valley.
8. Cottonwood Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning, the Cottonwood Farmers Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
9. Cottonwood Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the area at the Cottonwood Museum, which features exhibits on the region’s Native American heritage, early settlers, and the mining industry.
10. Hiking and Biking Trails: Cottonwood has several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Popular trails include the Verde Canyon Trail and the Oak Creek Canyon Trail.
11. Cottonwood Lake: Enjoy fishing, boating, or kayaking at Cottonwood Lake, which offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
12. Sedona Arts Center: While not in Cottonwood, the Sedona Arts Center is just a short drive away. Explore the center’s galleries, studios, and classes, which offer a wide range of artistic activities.
13. Verde Canyon Trail System: The Verde Canyon Trail System offers several trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails range from easy to challenging and offer stunning views of the canyon.
14. Cottonwood Historical Society Museum: Learn about the history of Cottonwood at the Cottonwood Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s early days, mining industry, and Native American heritage.
15. Stargazing: Due to the area’s minimal light pollution, Cottonwood is an ideal spot for stargazing. Find a dark spot away from town and enjoy the night sky.

These are just a few things to do in Cottonwood, AZ. The town offers a range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and ages.