Arizona has a rich and storied past, particularly with regard to the mining industry. One of the most historic small towns in Arizona is Globe, a former copper mining camp whose entire downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A visit to Globe is akin to stepping back in time, and whether or not you’re a history buff, you’ll thoroughly enjoy your time here.

Founded in 1875, well before Arizona even became a state, Globe is a former mining camp that is now a charming small town of around 7,500.
Wikimedia Commons/David Quigley
The town is full of old buildings with fascinating stories to tell. In fact, the entire downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places!
Wikimedia Commons/Steven C. Price
Perhaps the oldest building in Globe - or a mile southwest of town, rather - is Besh-Ba-Gowah, a 200-room Salado pueblo dating to between AD 1225 and 1400. It's a truly incredible place to visit, with an archaeological museum boasting prehistoric pottery, stone, and other artifacts.
Wikimedia Commons/Steven C. Price
Another noteworthy structure is the Elks Lodge building, which was the tallest three-story building on Earth upon its construction in 1910. It is now an antique shop.
Wikimedia Commons/Ammodramus

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You'll also see the Globe Post Office, built in 1928 and still in use today.
Wikimedia Commons/National Archives, RG 121-BS, Box 3, Folder W
Holy Angels Catholic Church is another building that still serves its original purpose. Constructed in 1918, the church has a bell tower that's a whopping seven stories high!
Wikimedia Commons/Bernard Gagnon
Globe's mining history is still evident all over town. You can still see the workings of the Old Dominion copper mine, which now supplies water to the Globe-Miami area.
Wikimedia Commons/Jerry Willis
Visitors also enjoy seeing the Globe-Miami Mine Rescue Station, which operated into the 1960s. The building is now a museum.
Wikimedia Commons/United States Bureau of Mines, USBM #51484; Figure 18
The Gila Valley Bank and Trust Building is among the oldest buildings in town, dating to 1909. Now a day spa, the former bank still has its original skylights intact!
Wikimedia Commons/Steven C. Price

Have you ever visited Globe? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for some delicious Mexican restaurants to try while you’re in town!

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