Believe It Or Not, This Tiny Town In Arizona Is One Of The Best In The Country
Arizona has some pretty cool little towns dotted around the state, each with their own culture and personality. We’ve highlighted quite a few of these places in the past and each one represents a unique aspect of Arizona: history, nature, economy, and a hope for the future. One town we’re going to look at today sits in the southern portion of the state, less than an hour from the U.S.-Mexico border. Let’s check it out!
Minerals have been extracted from the area for centuries but it wasn't until the late 1800s when more permanent mines were established, including the massive New Cornelia Mine that sits on the borders of the town.
The mine, however, shut in 1983 and Ajo's residents struggled to prevent itself from becoming another boom and bust town in Arizona history.
So, what is there to do around town? Well, for starters, you can visit the Plaza, Ajo's beautiful town square where you can find shops and restaurants.
Evidence of this town identity shift can be found all around town, where colorful murals line buildings, sculptures are on display, and a growing number of galleries allow you to see even more art.
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
