old west tourist attractions

Ghost Towns

20 Wild West Towns Where You Can Still Experience the Frontier

By Joseph A. Williams Last updated October 20, 2023

When it comes to Old West towns, most people think of empty dirt streets filled with tumbleweeds and burnt out buildings. But there are plenty of towns and cities from the Old West that are not only inhabited, but still thriving.

Old West towns were often founded for similar reasons. Many were started as mining towns, including infamous places like Deadwood, Tombstone, and Virginia City, and most Arizona ghost towns . Other towns started as an outgrowth from the development of railroads, such as Dodge City, where the famous Long Branch Saloon served wild patrons.

Here are 20 of the best Wild West towns that are still inhabited today and worth adding to your American West travel bucket list. Some are famous in popular culture, while others you may not have heard of. They are, however, all great places to consider visiting when planning your Old West-themed travels. 

Related read : 7 California Ghost Towns that Capture the Golden State’s Rich Mining History

1. Tombstone, Arizona

There are few cities that scream out “Wild West” as much as Tombstone, Arizona. This town became famous through the famous feud between the Clantons and Earps, including Chief of Police Virgil Earp , leading to the infamous showdown at the O.K. Corral in 1881. Tombstone’s reputation as a town of violence and disorder was cemented ever since.

Tombstone was a very new settlement at the time of the showdown. It was founded after a prospector named Ed Schlieffelin struck silver in the area of the Dragoon Mountains in 1877.

Since Schieffelin had been warned by army soldiers that he’d find nothing there but his tombstone, the prospector ironically named his mine “Tombstone,” and it was from that the town took its name. A different account of the town’s name comes from Britannica which says it may have been named after the nearby granite cliffs.

Tombstone is very representative of many Old West towns: it was a boomtown founded on the quick money made from precious metal rushes. And as easy money was made, easy money was spent in a general spirit of rowdiness.

This boom ended with a flooding of the mines in 1911. Within a few decades, Tombstone pivoted to an economy based on tourist dollars. The town offers several museums , restored buildings, mine tours, and live shootout reenactments .

Related reads : 7 Facts about Johnny Ringo You Won’t Learn from Movies ; 29 Most Iconic Quotes from Tombstone

2. Dodge City, Kansas

Dodge City , Kansas was founded in 1872 on an economy based upon buffalo hunting. After the connection of the Santa Fe Railroad came to town, it soon became a major cattle destination.

This peaked in 1884 with the passage of eight million cattle through Dodge City. During those years, Dodge City became known for the stereotypes that Wild West towns are known for: prostitution, liquor, gambling, and lawlessness.

In fact, all these vices were encouraged by the town’s business interests which controlled the city. Why? They’d rather pay a legal penalty of $5,000 for serving liquor illegally or running prostitution outfits as a cost of doing business since the profits they were making were so great.

Dodge City became known as the “Cowboy Capital” and “Queen of the Cowtowns.” There were a number of famous lawmen in Dodge such as Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday , and Bat Masterson among others.

Their efforts helped fill up the nearby Boothill Cemetery. The town spent decades trying to live down its violent cartoonishly cattletown reputation. However, by the 20th century it began to embrace its dark past. Now tourism is a core economic activity of this town of nearly 28,000 residents.

The motto now is “Get the heck INTO Dodge.”

Related read : Skeleton Cave: Exploring the Salt River Cave Massacre Site

3. Deadwood, South Dakota

In 1874, a prospector named John B. Pearson discovered gold nuggets in Deadwood Gulch, so-named because of blackened trees that dominated that area of the Black Hills.

The subsequent goldrush saw prospectors swarm into and illegally squat on Lakota lands. This would lead to the Great Sioux War and the tragic expulsion of the Lakota.  It also led to the spasmodic birth of one of the most lawless towns of the Old West, Deadwood .

By 1876, Deadwood’s population boomed to 10,000 souls. While some signs of order were established such as a school, the town also overflowed with illegal gambling, prostitution, drunkenness, and violence. Women were very rare in Deadwood so prostitution was a very lucrative business.

In fact, it is estimated that 90% of the female population in Deadwood during the boom years were soiled doves . Murders averaged about one per day. Entertainments such as the Gem Theater reportedly drew ticket sales of $10,000 a night, making it perhaps the most profitable theater in the country.

The town was also the site where Wild Bill Hickok met his end in murder on August 2, 1876 by the gun of Jack McCall. The town also had an angel in Calamity Jane who gave care to smallpox victims. Both Hickok and Calamity Jane are buried next to one another in Deadwood’s cemetery, and Seth Bullock is buried there too.

Deadwood continued to be a center of gold mining, although early on it switched from panning to deep mining. In fact, mines continued to operate around Deadwood until 2001.

Deadwood also became diverse as a large population of Chinese immigrants moved to the town to work the mines. However, over the years restrictions on gambling and prostitution nearly brought the city to an end.

It was only after the legalization of gambling simultaneous to naming of the entire city as a national landmark, coupled with efforts at historic preservation that turned the city into the tourist destination that it is today.

Nowadays, Deadwood is booming again, but with more vacationers and less murder.

Related read : 7 Facts You May Not Know About the Conestoga Wagon

4. Oatman, Arizona

The mountain country of Mohave County in Arizona has always drawn the interest of prospectors. The first mines were developed in the 1860s, with one of them being named Oatman, after Olive Oatman , a girl who had been kidnapped by Yavapai and released by the Mojave.

Subsequent gold findings drew in thousands so that by 1909 Oatman had become a boomtown. The town had enough clout by the 1920s to successfully petition the building of Route 66 near the town. 

After this heyday, the mines closed and Oatman began to fall on hard times. However, the town eked by due to the many travelers on Route 66. Route 66 was rerouted in 1953 since the way to Oatman was windy and treacherous and almost overnight, Oatman nearly died. 

It then turned into a tourist magnet with some 500,000 visitors drawn yearly to this near-ghost town. Only about 100 people call this place their full time residence.

You can even see the Oatman Hotel where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard stayed after their wedding in 1939. The hotel is reputed to be haunted. So while Oatman is nice to visit, you may think twice about living there.

Related read : The Battle of Cibecue Creek & the Tragedy of Nockaydelklinne

5. Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming today is a bustling town of about 10,000 inhabitants which has a deep connection with the Old West, starting with its name.

In 1894, the famous William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody was visiting Sheridan when he reconnoitered the top of the Big Horn Mountains looking west. Seeing its proximity to Yellowstone and its potential to capitalize on the great natural resources of the region, he with other businessmen founded a town in 1896 which was named in his honor. 

Cody itself never had the notoriety of a town like Deadwood or Dodge City, but it became a go-to place for people who toured the West, particularly those who sought to see the natural beauty of Yellowstone which is only about an hour’s drive away.

Cody became a welcome place that held a frontier spirit and culture. One event are rodeos, which early on became a centerpiece in Cody’s culture. The Rodeo Stampede has been an integral event at Cody since 1920 and is why Cody claims to be the “ rodeo capital of the world .” Between the rodeo and Yellowstone, Cody’s primary economic activity is therefore tourism.

Related read : Register Cliff: Where Pioneer Graffiti Becomes an Historic Time Capsule

6. Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo, Texas is the economic heart of the Texas panhandle. The town was founded in 1897 in response to the building of the Fort Worth and Denver City railway. The land was developed about the Wild Horse Lake, also called the Amarillo Lake.

Thus, the town, which was originally called Oneida, was renamed to Amarillo, a Spanish term that refers to either the yellow wildflowers of the region or the yellow soil of the nearby creek. The first houses were painted yellow in recognition of the name change. The town by 1890 had become a major shipping point for cattle.

 Other railroads soon connected to Amarillo and by 1910 the population had grown to nearly 10,000. Subsequent discoveries of helium and oil diversified the economy.

Today, cattle, oil, and helium are still the mainstays of the Amarillo economy which is thriving with a population of over 200,000 . For a tourist of the Old West, visiting to a larger city like Amarillo may at first blush seem against the grain, but the city holds several historic attractions which provide a glimpse into its Old West past such as the Amarillo Railroad Museum and the Panhandle Plains Historic Museum .

Related read : 10 Facts You May Not Know About Quanah Parker, the “Last Chief of the Comanche”

7. Pendleton, Oregon

Pendleton, Oregon, located in the foothills of the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon, styles itself as “ The Real West. ”

It was laid out in 1868 and became incorporated 12 years later. The city, which today has a population of about 17,000 has ranching and agricultural roots. It served as a railhead for the shipment of wool from many of the regions sheep farms.

Its mills also produced blankets which were traded with nearby Native Americans. Yet early in its history, it quickly diversified with a substantial Chinese railway worker population who were purported to set up illegal underground gambling halls and opium dens.

These now feature as part of a popular but historically dubious tour . Pendleton also has a very strong connection to rodeo. In 1910, an attorney named Roy Raley organized a rodeo event that proved so popular that it became an annual tradition. The Pendleton Round Up is one of the most popular rodeos in the world, usually drawing 50,000 people.

Related read : Oregon Trail Stories: True & Inspiring Tales of Prairie Pioneers

8. Virginia City, Nevada

Nevada as a state only came into being because of mining. In 1859, a vast deposit of silver was discovered and dubbed the Comstock Lode after Henry Comstock, one of the owners of the land.

Almost overnight, mining boomtowns sprung up. By 1864, there were enough people in Nevada that it received statehood and helped President Lincoln get reelected with its three electoral votes. While many of these mining boomtowns are now ghost towns, one of the most important, Virginia City , is still populated today.

The city itself was named after one of the first prospectors in the region, a man who went by the name “ Ol Virginny .” It was situated on cliffs of Mount Davidson and had virtually no resources.

Everything had to be brought into the town. Virginia City’s peak years were in the 1870s when it and its immediate neighbor Gold Hill had a combined population of about 25,000.

It was during this time that the town suffered a major fire in 1875 which nearly destroyed the town, but because of the inherent wealth of the mines, it was quickly rebuilt even boasting multi-story buildings like the six-story International Hotel which had the first elevator in Nevada. At one point there were more than 100 saloons in Virginia City.

As with many of these mining towns, the supply of ore eventually ran out or demand for it collapsed. By the end of the 1880s, the population of Virginia City imploded.

However, the town managed to hang on. Today it has a population that hovers around 700 with an economy based almost entirely on tourism. Virginia City is worth visiting with preserved buildings/museums such as the Mackay Mansion , Piper’s Opera House , and the Way It Was Museum .

Related read : 7 Ghost Towns in Nevada and the History Behind Their Rise and Fall

9. Sheridan, Wyoming

The region of Sheridan first gained prominence as the staging area for General Crook’s campaigns in the Great Sioux War. In 1882, the region was surveyed for a townsite to be named after Philip Sheridan , the Union general whom John Loucks, its first mayor, served under when he was in the army.

The town itself gained regional prominence in the region when the Burlington & Missouri Railroad connected the town. Coal mines along the Goose Creek and Tongue River Valley turned Sheridan into a boom town.

Early Sheridan, like other Old West towns, was dominated by the shady side of life. It saw colorful characters such as William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody who was an investor in the Sheridan Inn . He used the place as his headquarters during tryouts for his Wild West show.

The population grew steadily so that by 1910 it was 8,408. By this time, the population had become diverse for Wyoming including immigrants from Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, African Americans and Latinos.

After the boom years Sheridan’s economy went through ups and downs but it found stability in tourism, dude ranches, and with the coming of Sheridan College in 1948.

Today, Sheridan is the economic center for the region and has a deep connection to its historic past. Some come for its famous rodeos , others come for the views of the Big Horn mountains, while still others come to see the unique art of Native Americans found at the Brinton Museum .

Related read : 7 of Wyoming’s Best Ghost Towns to Explore Today

10. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth today dubs itself the “ City Where the West Begins .”

Certainly this Texas city has a long history associated with the Old West. In 1849 in the aftermath of the Mexican-American war, General William Jenkins Worth set up a small encampment at the site. This outpost developed into a proper fort which the War Department named after the general.

The fort was meant to defend settlers from Native Americans, but on the whole it proved to be a sleepy billet. The fort was abandoned in 1853, but the area had become a place of settlement which eventually named itself after the old fort.

It developed as a typical rough frontier town that was connected to the rest of the world only through the U.S. postal service and later the Butterfield Overland mail stage.

The true development of Fort Worth into a city began with the connection of the Texas Pacific Railway in 1876. This connection allowed the city to become central to the cattle industry as a major shipping point. Drives of longhorn cattle starting in the 1860s to Fort Worth were so important that the town was nicknamed “Cowtown.”

As the town developed into a city the accoutrements of civilization came with it. Yet simultaneously it was also known as a place of lawlessness. For example, its most notorious neighborhood was “Hell’s Half Acre” which was its red light district.

It also became a place of racial controversy with untold lynchings occurring throughout the Jim Crow period. Today, Fort Worth is a large well-known city with a population approaching one million.

Related read : Big Jim Courtright: 9 Things 1883 Didn’t Tell Us about the Old West Lawman

11. Cheyenne, Wyoming

Cheyenne is the capital of Wyoming, and as the capital of the smallest state by population, its modest size of 60,000 people is unsurprising. Cheyenne , despite its small size, is a gritty site worthy of any tour of the Old West.

Cheyenne’s beginnings were in 1867, when the Union Pacific Railroad built its route to the West Coast. It was originally pitched to name the new town Iron City, but instead General Grenville Dodge and other founders decided to name it after the Cheyenne.

It became a quintessential railroad town, its traders supplying goods all along the railroad that stretched ever farther west. It eventually took on the nickname, “The Magic City of the Great Plains.”

Even today, the railroad is a major economic force in Cheyenne with many employed by the Burlington Northern Santa Fe and the Union Pacific. Cheyenne tries to promote its real connection to the Old West through such sites as the Wyoming State Museum , the Cheyenne Depot Museum , and the Cheyenne Frontier Old West Museum . 

Related read : 43 Western Boy Names that Pay Homage to the Wild West

12. Bandera, Texas

Bandera, Texas was founded in 1853, mainly by Polish immigrants who were recruited by lumber mills who exploited the cypress along the Medina River. These workers were originally from Upper Silesia but at the time of their coming to Bandera in 1855, were already established in Karnes County.

It became a major staging area of the great 19th century cattle drives. These were the town’s boom years and it was from this activity that the town took on the nickname, “Cowboy Capital of the World.” Perhaps to emphasize its connection to the Old West’s history, it has a small Frontier Times Museum .

The imprint of Polish culture is very evident in Bandera from place names such as the St. Stanislaus Catholic Church to the surnames of the roughly 900 people who still live in the town. Bandera is truly a unique town to visit in the Old West.

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13. Silverton, Colorado

 Even though the Colorado Gold Rush began in 1858, most prospectors eschewed the San Juan Mountains because they were so removed and rugged.

However, in 1860, Charles Baker discovered gold in a valley where the Mineral Creek and Cement Creek joined into the Animas River. Baker built a toll road, expecting a gold rush. However, after initial interest not much gold was found. Also prospectors were attacked by the Ute.  This, plus the harsh, raw conditions let settlement die.

 However, the situation changed in the 1870s when whites were able to force the Ute to cede rights to the region. Thus, in 1874 Silverton began its life as a mining camp.

Yet even so it was not especially profitable at first, only extracting $15,000 in ore in 1874. Also the costs of removing the ore was high because of its remoteness. This was made easier in 1881 when the railroad finally connected to Silverton.

This led to a long boom. The population increased to 2,000 and between 1882 to 1918, as the mining district extracted $65 million in ore. 

The boom slowly ended and while other towns in San Juan county became ghosts, Silverton remained — its only town. Gradually, tourism replaced mining as Silverton’s economic centerpiece supporting today’s 600 residents.

Mining has scarred the region, with some of the mines becoming federal Superfund sites. Nevertheless its natural beauty has attracted tourists to Silverton as well as an opportunity to connect with mining history such as the Old Hundred Gold Mine tour.

Related read : Molly Brown’s Unsinkable Wild West Rags-to-Riches Story

14. San Angelo, Texas

In 1867, the U.S. Army built a fort in west Texas along the Concho River. This fort, Fort Concho, was one of the bases of the famous African American Buffalo soldiers and meant to defend the frontier.

As an after effect, Fort Concho spawned the town of San Angelo, right across the river. The town began as a trading post founded by Bart J. DeWitt who saw the potential profit in servicing the fort. Also, San Angelo was plotted on an excellent location.

Not only did it have the fort nearby but also ample water and good soil. It also grew economically by being an area for longhorn cattle and a shipping point for the Santa Fe Railroad. Later, gas and oil would become important. Thus, San Angelo managed to thrive and today it is a city of about 100,000 .

The town’s name itself started as San Angela , supposedly named after DeWitt’s sister-in-law who was a nun, although other version of the story exist. Apparently when the town applied to establish a post office, it was forced to change its name to San Angelo to be grammatically correct — the other correct option as Santa Angela.

San Angelo was in its early years characterized by the usual suspects of Old West vice: drink, prostitution, gambling, and violence.  It slowly cleaned up and its geographic position allowed it to have a diverse enough economy to not turn into a ghost town.

The town also caters to tourists who aside from visiting Fort Concho can get in touch with the town’s notorious past by visiting Miss Hattie’s Bordello , a museum for the more licentious side of the Old West.

Related read: Judge Roy Bean: The Controversial “Law West of the Pecos”

15. Cripple Creek, Colorado

Cripple Creek, located near Pikes Peak, the impressive mountain named after Zebulon Pike , was the nexus of the last great Colorado mining boom .

Settlement in the area began in 1874 mainly for ranching. However, in 1890 a new gold rush started in the area which led to the formation of the mining district and hence the town of Cripple Creek through the unification of Fremont and Hayden Placer. The creek itself is likely named after Cripple Creek, Virginia although there are legends about numerous accidents on the creek that gave it the name, too. 

By 1892, the town had boomed to 3,500 and had become a fully functional municipality with electricity and telephone connections. The town itself burned in two devastating fires in 1896 but was rebuilt quickly from wood to brick and stone. Cripple Creek reached its peak years in the very early 1900s with perhaps 30 to 50,000 people living in the district.

From there, it slowly declined in the 20th century although mining is still an element in Cripple Creek’s economy today. Yet its real reliance is on tourism which was encouraged in 1991 through the legalization of gambling.

Currently Cripple Creek has twelve casinos (some in historic buildings) that generate a revenue of $10 million in taxes. This has met with criticism that gambling has changed the character and indeed shape of the town forever.

Related read: 10 Native American Mythical Creatures, from Thunderbirds to Skinwalkers

16. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe’s history stretches centuries before the days of the Old West. This city was founded in 1610 by the Spanish as part of its New World Empire.

As such, it is the third oldest still-inhabited city in the modern United States after St. Augustine, Florida and Jamestown, Virginia. The city acted as a regional capital for the sprawling Spanish frontier as well as for Mexico after it gained independence from Spain in 1821.

It then developed a wagon train trade over the famous Santa Fe Trail which connected the city to Independence, Missouri. This route proved to be a highway not just for commerce, but for settlement. These connections increased American interest in the region and helped contribute to the outbreak of the Mexican War in 1848.

As a result of the war, the city then changed hands to the United States. The city, as it had been under Spain and Mexico, remained a regional center, even after the connection of railroad in 1880 which proved the demise of the Santa Fe Trail. Santa Fe today with its large Spanish American population is a growing cultural center of the southwest.

Related read : Charles Kennedy: The Serial Killer of the Taos Trail

17. Central City, Colorado

Central City and adjacent Black Hawk were great boomtowns of the Colorado gold rush. Founded in 1859 Central City exploded in population as prospectors flooded the region.

This growth was somewhat slowed by the Civil War and then later by the fact that most of the easy ore had been extracted. However, in 1868, a chemist invented a new smelting extracting process that was able to increase metal production in ore where it once was infeasible.

Between smelting and the connection of the railroad in 1870, Central City became the most important city in Colorado reaching a population of about 15,000. The city ballooned in buildings.

Unfortunately, many of the original buildings of Central City no longer survive, having been consumed in an 1874 fire which razed 150 buildings. However, the city rebuilt back bigger including the Central City Opera House which became the number one theater in the state.

Central City fell into decline for a few reasons. First, after Colorado’s statehood, the nearby capital, Denver began to exert more influence and pulled Central City’s leading citizens away.

Second, mining in general fell into decline. By the 1930s, the town was nearly abandoned but a revival occurred with a renovation of the Opera House. Slowly, tourism took over the economy which was bolstered by legalized gambling.

The taxes from gambling help to fund the state’s historic preservation office. There are today just over 700 residents of Central City.

Related read : Chuckwagon Chow: 8 Cattle-Drive Foods Cowboys Ate on the Trail

18. Victor, Colorado

Victor, Colorado is another mining town from Colorado’s history that was closely tied with Cripple Creek. Victor, founded in 1891, was named after the nearby Victor Mine and the town was where the working miners lived.

After the Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad connected itself to Victor, it became an important shipping center for ore. By 1900, it  reached a population of 12,000. Victor features in labor history, being the site of some notable labor strikes by miners in 1903 and 1904.

Fighting between labor and management resulted in several deaths including a bombing on June 6, 1904 that led to thirteen deaths by nonunionized miners. 

Eventually it became harder and harder to extract ore from the mines. Through the twentieth century, tourism instead began to take hold. One of the first prominent sites became the Victor Lowell Thomas Museum , which was built in an original 1899 building.

The town became a national historic district in 1985 and holds annual celebrations such as “ Gold Rush Days ” which glimpse into the town’s history. Limited stake gambling has also kept the town and its roughly 400 residents, going into the 21st century.

Related read : 10 Facts About John Moses Browning, the “Father of Modern Firearms”

19. Prescott, Arizona

Interestingly, Prescott is the only Old West Town that was named after a historian. In 1864, when a town was first laid out to support the miners swarming into west-central Arizona, there was a question of what it was to be named.

Some suggested naming it Audubon. Others, Aztlan. However, Prescott was adopted at the suggestion of the territorial secretary, Richard McCormick, who admired the historian William H. Prescott , who wrote the History of the Conquest of Mexico.

Prescott was originally the capital of the Arizona Territory until 1867, when it was moved to Tucson and then again from 1877 to 1889, when it was relocated to Phoenix.

The fortunes of the town waxed and waned throughout its development, but at its heart, Prescott was built on an economy of ranching and mining. In some ways, Prescott was more preferable than other locations in Arizona. Its mile-high elevation gives it a pleasant, Mediterranean-like climate.

Today, this Old West city is relatively prosperous, with roughly 130,000 people in the area. Prescott remains in touch with its Old West roots, featuring a popular rodeo which has been held annually since 1888, as well as historical sites such as the Sharlot Hall Museum which holds several restored buildings from the period.

Prescott is also home to the Phippen Museum which specialized in the art of the American West. The list of things to do in Prescott is longer than you might expect for an Old West town of its size.

Related read : 15 Native American Ruins in Arizona that Offer a Historic Glimpse into the Past

20. Laramie, Wyoming

Laramie was established as a railroad town upon the high plains by the Union Pacific Railroad in 1868. It quickly grew into a violent frontier settlement. While the town initially boomed, growing to over 3,000 residents, most of the citizenry was transient since (at that time) Laramie was the end of the railroad.

This introduced a troubled element into the town whose initial government ignominiously collapsed due to corruption. Laramie was then taken over by roughnecks and louts.

Three in particular, half brothers who owned a saloon called the “Bucket of Blood,” were extorting settlers to deed their lands to them. As a result, vigilante groups formed to try to bring some semblance of order to Laramie. It worked, but only after four lynchings and lots of injuries.

After the railroad continued its construction to the west the population dropped to about 800. The small town then became a center for ranchers and farmers. It later saw growth as the Union Pacific placed a mill near the town which recycled iron rails. In fact, Laramie became  a rail center so it survived after ranching as an industry generally collapsed in the late 1880s. 

But what really kept the town going was the establishment of the University of Wyoming in the city in 1887, which employed thousands of citizens. The University is still the town’s largest employer but there is also a tourist industry with several museums including the Laramie Plains Museum .

The town also has a dark side, being the place where gay student Matthew Shepard was murdered in 1998, thus sparking calls for nationwide laws against hate crimes.

Want to read more about Old West people and places?

• 8 Famous (and Infamous) Sheriffs of the Old West
• The Short, Tragic Life of Mattie Blaylock, Wyatt Earp’s Second Wife
• 10 Blood Meridian Quotes That Define Cormac McCarthy’s West
• Lost Treasure in California: True Stories of the Golden State’s Hidden Riches
• Curly Bill Brocius: Was He Really Shot and Killed by Wyatt Earp?

References & Further Reading

• Austin, N. (2020). Arizona Ghost Towns: 50 of the State’s Best Places to Get a Glimpse of the Old West . Arizona Highways Books.
• Paher, S. W., Murbarger, N., & Cirac, P. (2009). Nevada Ghost Towns & Desert Atlas, Vol. 2 Southern Nevada-Death Valley . Nevada Publications.
• Schieffelin, E., & Craig, R. B. (2017). Portrait of a Prospector: Edward Schieffelin’s Own Story . University of Oklahoma Press.
• Speck, G. B. (2020). Ghost Towns . Publications International, Ltd.
• Stansfield, C. A. (2010). Haunted Arizona: Ghosts and Strange Phenomena of the Grand Canyon State . Stackpole Books.
• Varney, P. (2017). Ghost Towns of the West . Quarto Publishing Group USA.
• Varney, P., Drew, J., & Drew, S. (2001). Ghost Towns of Northern California . Voyageur Press.

by Joseph A. Williams

Joseph A. Williams is an author, historian, and librarian based in Connecticut. He has authored three books: The Sunken Gold , Seventeen Fathoms Deep , and Four Years Before the Mast .

Discussion (5)

5 responses to “20 wild west towns where you can still experience the frontier”.

Think about Leadville, Colorado too…… which is also the highest community of its size In altitude.

What about Wichita Kansas as an old west town ? Or Fort Scott Kansas lot’s of history in both of these towns. When I was driving truck’s I visited many old west towns that have a history of the Old West it’s very interesting to visit these towns with western cowboy history.

Telluride, Colorado? Park City, Utah? Butte, Montana? Bodie, California? Wallace, Idaho?

virginia city wyoming was left out… the only original western town not ravaged by a fire…

What about Lincoln New Mexico?

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20 Real Old Wild West Attractions You Have to See to Believe

From the exciting gunfights between daring outlaws and the courageous lawmen who fought them to the card sharks and pioneers that made the West great; the stories and histories of the Old West still capture the imaginations of all who hear them. It was a time of lawlessness and perseverance, of incredible heartbreak and amazing opportunities for thousands of families. While that time might be long gone, the tales of those who lived are still lingering on in various attractions and locations. Whether you're a huge Wild West buff or simply interested in learning about America's most wild years, these 20 attractions just have to be seen to be believed.

Take a trip back to the wild, wild West with these exciting historical attractions. A day full of cowboys, culture, and the best of the Old West combine at these great locations. 

Tombstone, AZ

The OK Corral will always be remembered for one of the most famous gunfights in the West. On October 26, 1881, Wyatt Earp and the Clantons fought for dominance ending in several tragic deaths and lifelong injuries. Today, three gun fights take place every day which mimic the original gun fight as closely as possible. History buffs can take a buggy ride of the entire town where history comes to life or check out the many other attractions in the area.

San Xavier Mission Church

The Moorish-inspired white structure is the oldest Catholic Church in the United States, which is still active after 300 years. The awe-inspiring building is erected in the middle of San Xavier Indian Reservation Area 10 miles outside of Tucson, Arizona. Appropriately named, “White Dove in the Desert”, the building is mainly crafted in limestone. Overall, the site is visited by more than 200,000 visitors every year.

Boothill Graveyard

Also known as Tombstone Graveyard, the Boothill Graveyard is one of the most famous resting places for many who died during the Old Wild West. From regular citizens to outlaws, many of the people who made Tombstone the city it is today are buried in the cemetery. The graveyard has a few who died at the famous OK Corral as well as many other residents.

The Birdcage Theatre

This old saloon is buzzing with history as numerous gun fights took place inside the building. In its heyday, the Birdcage Theatre was one of the most popular places in the Old West where gambling, prostitution and drinking were allowed. The bullet holes on walls are stark reminder of its dirty history. Six recently renovated underground rooms offer a more fascinating experience for those who don’t mind confrontations with the ghosts that supposedly roam the premises.

Old Trail Town

Old Trail Town, located in Cody, WY, has been meticulously restored to resemble the town during its heyday between 1880 and 1900. Named after the legendary showman, William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, this town boasts thousands of Old West artifacts and the grave of mountain man John Johnson, on whom the popular movie "Jeremiah Johnson" was based. This site is an absolute must-see when journeying through the Old West.

Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park

This historic park is designed to educate visitors on the history of Tombstone, one of the most famous Wild West towns. The main attraction is the courthouse which was built in 1882 and houses one of the finest collections of historical artifacts from the Old West. Visitors can even see a recreated gallows much like the kind often used to hang criminals in the Old West.

Buckhorn Exchange

While Denver is full of excellent restaurants, few can compare with delicacies and history served at Buckhorn Exchange. Located just 5 miles outside Denver, the restaurant is the holder of liquor license No. 1 in Colorado and originally opened in 1893, serving cattlemen, gamblers, miners, railroad workers and even more famous figures like Chief Red Cloud and Theodore Roosevelt. The restaurant serves some of the finest steaks and game in the state and features plenty of museum-quality memorabilia from its nearly two centuries of operation.

Buckhorn Saloon and Museum

San Antonio, TX

This museum is home to one of the most fascinating collections of the American wilderness. The first owner collected items in exchange for beer and food but the collection has since grown to include a 1,056 pound black marlin and pre-historic Irish elk. The original saloon is also the place where Mexican Revolution was planned. In addition to the saloon, there is a museum, a shooting gallery, gift shops, a Texas Ranger gallery and a cafe. While in the area, you should also try to catch out a show at the Majestic Theatre [1] , less than a half mile away.

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

Fort Worth, TX

While everyone thinks about cowboys in the Wild West, they weren't the only ones roaming the prairie. The National Cowgirl Museum provides a historical perspective on the achievements of the most daring cowgirls in the nation. Originally nothing more than a small room in the basement, the museum has continuously grown since 1975. It now takes up an entire 33,000 square foot building and is filled with more than 4,000 artifacts as well as the stories and histories of the sometimes overlooked American cowgirls. If you get hungry while in the area, check out the Kimbell Art Museum [2] which is only a short distance away features tons of artwork and is really unique place to eat, which locals love.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

These 500 acres are home to a replica of the historic Wooden Mill that sparked the Gold Rush in California and completely altered  the history of Wild West. Visitors can visit many restored structures to learn about the history and try their luck digging for gold. The park also offers great outdoor opportunities for hiking and adventure.

Old Sacramento Historic Landmark

Sacramento, CA

Located on the eastern bank of Sacramento River, Old Sacramento is an important from a historical and architectural standpoint. Here, the history of Gold Rush is preserved as many original buildings from that time are still intact. Visitors can take rides in period carriages and wagons which will take them around multiple iconic landmarks in the area to learn more about the history of the area in the Wild West. There are numerous museums, tours and attractions all focused on the Old West.

Mission Concepción

The church is located in the center of San Antonio, but the building and its grounds transport visitors into a bygone era. Mission Concepci ó n is the oldest unrestored stone church in the United States. The original building from 1755 featured colorful designs and frescoes, some of which can still be seen inside the church.

Billy the Kid's Grave

Fort Sumner, NM

This small grave in Fort Sumner continues to draw crowds interested in paying their respects to Billy the Kid, one of the most famous outlaws in American history . The nearby museum  is dedicated to showcase original equipment used by Billy the Kid and provides historical narratives of how he fearlessly roamed the Old West until a county sheriff brought him down at the age of 21.

Deadwood, SD

There are few Wild West buffs who haven't heard of Deadwood, SD, and this town remains one of the true wonders of Old Wild West. It was once home to Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, famous gunfighters and gamblers of the West. Several gambling halls in the town keep Deadwood alive and there is plenty for visitors to do including touring several historical buildings which have been restored to their original western splendor.

Calico Ghost Town

Calico, located in the middle of Mojave Desert, is one of the most well-preserved ghost towns in the United States. Restored in 1950 to its former glory, this mining town is designed to look similar to what the site might have been during its heyday in 1880. Visitors can take guided tours of the town including a mine tour aboard Calico & Odessa Railroad. Then once you've worked up an appetite be sure to stop by Peggy Sue's diner [3] , a local favorite restaurant with a fun 50's theme.

Saloon No. 10 in Deadwood, SD

Saloon No. 10 is easily the most famous eatery in Deadwood. The original building gained its fame from being the place where Wild Bill Hickok was killed. Interestingly, the Saloon has been in continuous operation since that day. Experience a slice of the Wild West with the tasty meals and Western cowboy style menu, cooked to perfection every day. You can even see a recreation of Wild Bill's death and try your hand at a game of authentic "Deadwood style" gaming.

Bent's Fort National Historic Site

La Junta, CO

This converted adobe historic site is one of the best places for families to take their kids to learn about the Old West. The building was erected during the pioneering days to designate a safe place for traders, travelers and trappers to conduct deals with native Indian tribes in a peaceful environment. Now, children can participate in a roleplay by selecting their favorite character and learning about how life in the Old West worked. The main event takes place in June when children can continue to learn history by taking part in activities spanning five days. If you can't make it in June, then Otero Museum [4] , only a few minutes away, is also definitely worth a visit for more Old West experience and a fun Chuck Wagon Dinner.

South Park City Museum

Fairplay, CO

Visitors can experience the history and economy of a gold mining town from 18th century by touring more than 30 structures at South Park City Museum which holds around 60,000 artifacts and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. The Museum has been in continuous operation since 1959 when the original buildings were renovated. Visitors can see firsthand the economy, industry and profession of the era and learn more about the Gold Rush and the American West.

Buffalo Bill Grave & Museum

One of the most famous cowboys, hunters and showmen of the West, the grave site of the true American icon Buffalo Bill is located on Lookout Mountain near Denver. Buffalo Bill was a showmen, hunter, fighter and adventurer in 19th century America. His exploits offer an insight into the life in 19th century and how the White Man and Red Indians fared against each other.

San Antonio TX

Last but not least, the Alamo is perhaps the most famous building in Texas. During the legendary battle with Mexican troops, heroic Texans stood their ground for almost 13 days against a vastly superior force. The building has been restored to its former glory, providing visitors a glimpse into the past. The site features a large amount of memorabilia from the battle as well. You can even quench your thirst at the Biergarten Riverwalk [5] nearby.

So, which of these famous sites do you want to visit? Do you have any Old Wild West locations on your list that we should add? Let us know in the comments, and share with all of your friends!

Places to Visit in the USA if You Love The Wild West

If you are looking for the best Wild West towns and activities, then this article will give you some great tips!

The American Wild West is featured so often in Hollywood films and on TV that many of us feel like we know it very well – the cowboys, the gun fights, the drinking establishments, the horses and wagons…

The Wild West was so named for the lawlessness of the untamed territories west of the Mississippi River in the late 19th century.

The ‘Old West’ was famous for cowboys, native Indians, pioneers, gamblers, outlaws, gangs and gunfighters .

Famous people of the Wild West include Billy the Kid, Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid, Frank and Jesse James, and the Clanton gang.

And until this day the obsession with the Wild West remains strong. For many international travelers, it is an important reason for wanting to travel to the USA, and Americans look for authentic Old West vacations closer to home.

Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Wyoming, and Utah receive countless tourists each year looking for Wild West attractions.

So, if you thought your childhood dreams of being a cowboy were now impossible, then think again!

These are five places you need to add to your bucket list if you love the idea of experiencing the Wild, Wild West.

Where to Go for the Best Wild West Vacations

1. grand canyon national park.

Exploring the Grand Canyon in Arizona will make you feel like you’re an actual cowboy or cowgirl, as it’s an iconic spot used heavily in the western movie genre.

Hiking through Grand Canyon’s massive expanse of gorges, ridges and rock formations is definitely something you will remember forever.

Whilst there, you can live your Old West dream and try your hand at horse riding.

Visit nearby Horseshoe Bend , one of the most photographed areas on the Colorado River, and an absolutely incredible sight.

Or travel east to take a backroads tour of Monument Valley with a Navajo guide.

Drive north into Utah to find the towering stone structures in Arches National Park which are so incredibly photogenic.

Tip: if you want to stay somewhere unique, check out the Grand Canyon Western Ranch . Set on an active ranch and offering horseback riding and wagon rides, this Old West-style resort was once owned by a notorious 19th-century gunfighter. You can choose to stay in Old West-style cottages or glamping tents.

2. New Mexico

Don your best cowboy boots and visit the Old West towns in New Mexico .

With plenty of hiking opportunities, picturesque foothills, and old mining pits, any Wild West enthusiast could spend days exploring this part of the USA.

Its past reputation as a lawless state means that many notorious Wild West legends lived and died in New Mexico: Billy the Kid was killed and buried in Fort Sumner and train robber Black Jack Ketchum was accidentally decapitated in a hanging-gone-wrong in Clayton.

Other Old West towns to visit in New Mexico:

• Las Vegas – the filming location of tens of movies and completely different from its namesake in Nevada.
• Lincoln – site of the violent Lincoln County War.
• Mesilla – where Billy the Kid was sentenced to death.
• White Oaks – once a booming mining town and now a ghost town.

And while you are in New Mexico the famous Route 66 of course can’t be missed!

3. Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Located in Cody, Wyoming, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a complex of five museums and a research library filled with artwork and artifacts of the American West.

You could spend days exploring all the collections, stories and exhibitions that work hard to truly bring the Wild West to life for its visitors– giving you a real taste of what it was like in those times.

And while you are in the area, visit nearby Old Trail Town , which is a re-created frontier town with 1800s log cabins and a saloon.

Spend the night at the Irma Hotel . This Old West hotel was built by ”Buffalo Bill” William F. Cody, who named the hotel after his youngest daughter, Irma.

Buffalo Bill was arguably the most famous American in the world during his lifetime and has been involved in many events that shaped the American West.

If you’re looking for a Wild West vacation, this is without a doubt one of the most interesting hotels to stay in.

4. Grand Canyon Railway

 Take a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway for a trip back in time.

The lovingly restored rail cars ooze 1920s grandeur and the scenery you can admire during the ride is unrivaled.

When you board this impressive Old West train, you get to experience the same journey people from all over the world have taken since the 1900s.

This is without a doubt one of the best Wild West attractions!

The Grand Canyon Railway operates between Williams, Arizona, and Grand Canyon National Park South Rim.

5. Goldfield Ghost Town

The Goldfield Ghost Town in Arizona is much like the set of a spaghetti western. Film buffs will definitely be in their element on a visit here!

The Goldfield Ghost Town is a reconstructed 1890s town including gold-mine tours, Old West gunfights, and a history museum.

From the historic buildings, shooting gallery, antique train, and goldmines to the staged gunfights by the Goldfield Gunfighters, you can live out your cowboy or cowgirl dream here!

You can even enjoy a delicious steak in the local saloon, complete with authentic décor that harks back to your favorite era.

If you were looking for Old West towns to visit then you should definitely add Goldfield Ghost Town to your list.

Enjoy Your Authentic Old West Vacation!

If you want to experience the gun-slinging showdowns and the sprawling landscapes associated with the Wild West, make sure you add these top 5 places to your bucket list for a trip back in time to the Old West!

• 3 American States You Might Not Have Thought of Visiting
• The Prettiest Cities to Visit in the USA
• The 5 Most Important Things to Look for When Booking a Hotel Room

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1 thought on “Places to Visit in the USA if You Love The Wild West”

USA is such a beautiful place, especially the wild west! The images that you shared are amazing. one should definitely visit the USA once.

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The Ultimate Wild West Road Trip: From Tombstone to Deadwood

Buckle up, cowboys and cowgirls.

The West was made for road trips. The desolate roads, mountains, cacti and wildlife are practically begging you to hop in your car and explore. There's plenty of history to draw you in, too. If you're a fan of  cowboys,  cowgirls and covered wagons, buckle up for the ultimate Old West road trip.

You'll start in southern Arizona, travel up through New Mexico and mosey on up through the wild west towns of the gorgeous western plains.

Tombstone, Ariz.

A thorobrace stagecoach in Tombstone, Tombstone, Arizona, circa 1882. (Photo by Underwood Archives/Getty Images)

You'll start where a slew of Old West outlaws met their end. Tombstone, Ariz. is the setting of one of the most notorious shootouts in history: the gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The shootout was the result of a longstanding feud between a group of cowboys and the Tombstone law enforcement, made up of Wyatt Earp , Morgan and Virgil Earp and Doc Holliday. Today, the ghost town-turned-tourist-destination holds daily reenactments of the O.K. Corral gunfight on the historic site.

Amarillo, Texas

Getty Images

There's a reason George Strait was so eager to get to Amarillo by morning. The city is rodeo-central and one of the best places to experience Western culture. Check out the   American Quarter Horse Museum , which pays tribute to one of the most beloved symbols of the American west.

While you're in the area, drive down to Canyon, Texas to visit the  Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum . The museum is the proclaimed "Smithsonian with a Texas accent." See a replica pioneer town and learn about life on the Panhandle-Plains in the 1800s.

Cache, Okla.

Cache, Okla. was the home of Quanah Parker, the last chief of the Quahada Comanche American Indian tribe. Parker was the son of Cynthia Ann Parker, a white woman who had been captured by a Comanche war band as a young girl. She lived among the tribe until adulthood when she was found by the Texas Rangers and taken back to Texas against her will. Quanah lived a life that couldn't be matched in the pages of even the greatest Western novel. A warrior and a statesman, he befriended President Theodore Roosevelt and Texas rancher Charles Goodnight. Parker went on to found the Native American Church Movement.

Today, the estate of Quanah Parker still stands. Known as the "Star House," due to the giant stars painted on the roof, the house is a piece of Oklahoma and Western history. Although the New York Times reported in 2015 that the Star House is badly in need of repair, the estate is still open for tours. The Star House is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination to pay tribute to a legend.

Dodge City, Kan.

Dodge City, was once the epicenter of the Wild West. Rough, rowdy and dangerous, the pioneer town became famous for the western icons who passed through, such as the saloon-keeper turned lawman Wyatt Earp. Don't worry about being challenged to an old-fashioned gunfight at high noon, though. Dodge City is much more quaint these days. However, there's still plenty of chances to step back in time. Visit the Boot Hill museum, located on the site of the historic Boot Hill cemetery, for a look at the 60,000 artifacts of Dodge City from the 1870s through the 1920s.

Durango, Colo.

Transcendental Graphics/Getty Images

It may feel like you've stepped onto a western movie set when you reach Durango. The classic  Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid  was filmed here. And if you want to ride in style like Butch and the Kid, hop on the Durango train, a steam train that takes you on winding roads through the San Juan National Forest.

North Platte, Neb.

HUM Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Buffalo Bill Cody became synonymous with the Old West when he launched his Wild West show in 1883. The massively popular touring extravaganza brought a slice of the American west all over the world, enlisting sharpshooters such as Annie Oakley . Even beloved frontier figure Calamity Jane appeared in the show to tell stories of her days riding with Wild Bill Hickok.

Buffalo Bill's Wild West  was founded in Buffalo Bill's hometown of North Platte, Neb. Here you can pay tribute to the Wild West ringleader himself at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park where visitors can tour Cody's 1882 home.

Deadwood, S.D.

Photo by: Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The final stop is one of the most notable western towns in history. Deadwood made its name on gambling, brothels and general lawlessness. Today, Deadwood has cleaned up its act, but thankfully doesn't shy away from its past. You can still play cards in the gaming halls not far from where Jack McCall shot Wild Bill Hickok in the back over a heated game of poker.

When you're done drinking whiskey at the local saloon, go pay your respect to Wild Bill and his old friend Calamity Jane, who are buried in the nearby Mount Moriah Cemetery.

Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Country are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission

This article was originally published in 2017. It was updated on July 31, 2023.

READ MORE:  Bass Reeves: The Real Lone Ranger of the Wild West

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The 10 Best Wild West Towns To Visit In America

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

The old west is one of the most iconic periods in the history of the United States. A unique time of lawlessness when pioneers and frontiersmen pushed west in search of a better life, it has been frequently documented and romanticised in books, movies, and TV shows for decades.

For true fans though, this won’t be enough, and they will want to experience the era first hand. This will inevitably lead to them searching for the best wild west towns to visit in America, to ensure they have the best experience possible. This isn’t always as straightforward as it may seem though.

As many of the top towns of the old west became ghost towns long ago, working out which offer the perfect combo of activities and atmosphere can be a challenge. So, if you want to see the old west in the best way possible, our list of the 10 best wild west towns to visit in America is sure to be of use.

Deadwood, South Dakota

Hidden away in western South Dakota, near Rapid City, Black Hills National Forest , and a collection of famed attractions like Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Wind Cave National Park, Deadwood is one of the largest wild west towns still in existence anywhere in America.

Established in 1876, at the height of the Black Hills Gold Rush, Deadwood was a boom town named after the dead trees found in a gulch that surrounds it. Like many old west mining towns, its heyday was short lived, as a fire destroyed most of the town after only three years, in September 1879.

Despite a short time at the top though, Deadwood managed to develop a lasting reputation for being at the centre of countless historical events and being the home of several wild west legends, with the likes of Wild Bill Hickok, Wyatt Earp, and Calamity Jane all having lived there.

Deadwood was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1961 and its gold mining industry continued until 2002, both of which have helped with its preservation. As a result, it is comfortably one of the very best wild west towns to visit in America.

With museums, historic markers and buildings, graveyards, and statues littering the town, you can get an in depth education on this wild west hotspot. Then, attractions like re-enactments of historic events, stagecoach rides, and gold mine tours will allow you to experience it for yourself.

Tombstone, Arizona

Found in south Arizona, near the United States – Mexico Border, Tombstone is the largest old west town to still exist. Established in 1877 as a silver mining town by prospector Ed Schieffelin, it was one of the most prominent boomtowns in the nation, thanks to the huge number of mines around it.

Like many mining towns, Tombstone’s star burned bright and fast. Its population exploded from 100 to 14,000 in just seven years, then dwindled to virtually nothing only 8 years after that, when it was declared a ghost town in 1892.

Tombstone’s history and importance never wavered though, and almost 40 years later, in 1930, efforts began to renovate the town. This included restoring famous buildings and locations, as well as establishing wild west attractions to draw in visitors and help them to embrace its history.

Throughout Tombstone you will find legendary sights, like the O.K. Corral, where you can see a recreation of its infamous gunfight, cemeteries where old west legends are buried, and a collection of buildings like saloons and brothels, many of which are alleged to be haunted.

There are even plenty of buildings that have been converted into museums dedicated to the history of Tombstone and the mining industry. This has all helped Tombstone to establish a reputation as one of the most popular ghost towns and best wild west towns to visit in America.

Dodge City, Kansas

Dodge City is one of the most legendary wild west towns in history. Located in the heart of the old west frontier, on the path of both the Arkansas River and the fabled Santa Fe Trail, the first buildings of the town were erected in 1871, to the west of the fort it was named after, Fort Dodge.

While businesses were established in Dodge City fairly quickly, it was the birth of the railroad and institution of quarantine lines in Kansas that really turned it into a boomtown. It soon became a prime destination for cattle drives, earning it the nickname the “Queen Of The Cow Towns”.

Eventually causing the creation of the Great Western Cattle Trail, an offshoot of the Chisholm Trail, it earned a reputation as a frontier powerhouse. This drew countless wild west legends to Dodge City, with gunfighters, bullfighters, frontiersmen, lawmen, cowboys, and outlaws all arriving.

Before long, Dodge City’s collection of brothels, gambling halls, hotels, and saloons was legendary, as was its bullring. The city still features many of these original buildings and locations to this day, as well as others that have been reconstructed in their original style.

This includes the Boot Hill Cemetery, China Doll Brothel, Long Branch Saloon, and Saratoga Saloon, while you’ll also find the Kansas Cowboy Hall Of Fame. For those wanting to learn more about Dodge City, the Boot Hill museum is full of artefacts and exhibits to educate you on the town in the 1800’s.

If you want to dive headfirst into the wild west experience, there is a wide range of western themed events and festivals held each year. Dodge City Days and the Dodge City Roundup Rodeo, as well as countless other smaller events are frequently running, to ensure you always have an incredible time.

Inarguably one of the best wild west towns to visit in America, there is no chance you’ll want to “get the heck out of dodge” anytime soon after arriving, which shows how far the city has comes from its lawless past when the legendary phrase was coined.

Cody, Wyoming

Settled in 1896 by legendary frontiersman William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody, the town of Cody, Wyoming is among the more lived in old west towns in the United States, having almost 10,000 residents.

Wild west enthusiasts will be hard pushed to find a better place to indulge their interest than at the Buffalo Bill Center Of The West. Recognised among the most remarkable museum complexes in the U.S, it houses the most comprehensive display of old west exhibits and artefacts on Earth.

The displays are spread across 5 separate museums, which are the Buffalo Bill Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, Plains Indians Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, and Draper Natural History Museum. This ensures even those highly educated on the old west will still learn plenty here.

Nicknamed “The Rodeo Capital Of The World”, Cody is best known for hosting the largest rodeo in the United States every 4th of July weekend, the Stampede Rodeo. The town then also hosts the Cody Nite Rodeo every night between June and September.

With additional attractions in Cody like the Historic Cody Mural & Museum, Old Town Trail, and parts of the town recreated to look how they would have done in the late 1800s, those seeking the best wild west towns to visit in America simply can’t pass up a trip to Cody.

With Wyoming being known as the “Cowboy State”, those able to dedicate more time to their trip will surely find plenty of other attractions dedicated to the old west spread across it as well, adding even more value to a trip to Cody.

Oatman, Arizona

One of the youngest towns on our list, Oatman was settled in about 1910, in the dying days of the old west. However, it still deserves its spot on our list of the best wild west towns to visit in America as the town’s population exploded in 1915, when miners discovered over $10 million worth of gold.

Oatman was extremely prosperous for about 50 years, before the mines largely dried up most of the residents deserted their homes. While a population of around 100 people have prevented it from becoming a ghost town, it hasn’t quite caught on as a tourist attraction like other similar towns.

This makes Oatman one of the best wild west towns to visit in America for those who want a really authentic experience. Its collection of historic buildings, wooden sidewalks, and open sections of mines allow visitors to explore Oatman’s past, without being surrounded by mobs of tourists.

You then also have attractions like staged gunfights and an infamous population of wild burros that roam the town to transport you back in time for an entertaining, immersive experience like no other.

Themed gift shops sell handmade souvenirs to help you remember your trip, while being located along Historic Route 66 means Oatman can be a great stop on a much larger historic road trip.

Virginia City, Nevada

One of the lesser known destinations on the list, Virginia City holds incredible historic significance as the site where the Comstock Lode, the first major silver deposit in the United States, was found in 1859. As a result, Virginia City was named a National Historic Landmark District in 1961.

Another of its major claims to fame is that Virginia City was the home of writer Samuel Clemens, before he changed his name to Mark Twain and became one of the world’s most successful authors.

While it may not hold the kind of old west history that some of the more notorious towns on this list do, it features enough attractions to still make it one of the best wild west towns to visit in America.

Beautifully restored buildings, wooden sidewalks, and sites like Piper’s Opera House, the Bucket Of Blood Saloon, Brass Rail Saloon, Delta Saloon, Ponderosa Saloon, Red Dog Saloon, Silver Queen, and the Washoe Club create an authentic atmosphere.

You even have a number of historic cemeteries and churches to explore, as well as 17 museums, like the Fourth Ward School Museum, Way It Was Museum, Silver State Police Officers’ Museum, and Fireman’s Museum, all filled with incredible artefacts and exhibits.

You can spend the day exploring Virginia City or the Comstock Historic Walking Trail on your own or get a guide and make sure you don’t miss a thing. These include options like horse drawn carriage tours, trolley tours, and walking tours, as well as tours of the town’s various mines.

Those staying for a little longer may even enjoy hopping on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, which goes from Virginia City to Carson City via Gold Hill, to help you explore all of the area’s historic mining towns.

Bandera, Texas

As a town located in the heart of Texas, on the Medina River, and known as the “Cowboy Capital Of The World”, Bandera is a place that simply has to be included on any list of the best wild west towns to visit in America.

It is thought to have been settled in the late 1800s due to its location on the Great Western Cattle Trail. Locations like the Dixie Dude Ranch and Mayan Dude Ranch are both more than 50 years old and are great places to learn about this part of the town’s history.

Cattle drives aren’t the only notable historic events to have taken place here though. Vicious battles between Native American tribes, Spanish settlers, and cowboys also occurred, and the Frontier Times Museum details the entire history of the town, so you can delve into these darker events.

With attractions like chuckwagon cookouts, honky tonks, and saloons, and regular festivals, such as the Bandera ProRodeo, Cowboy Capital Christmas Night Parade, Cowboy Mardi Gras, Mayhem On The Medina, Spring Fling, and Wild Hog Explosion, Bandera is a great, highly overlooked destination.

Bodie, California

Settled in 1876, Bodie is a gold mining boomtown in central California, near Yosemite National Park and the Nevada border. One of the largest and longest running mining towns in the old west, it was active for almost 40 years, until it began to decline in 1912 and was declared a ghost town in 1915.

Designated both a California Historical Landmark and United States National Historic Landmark due to its importance, the Bodie State Historic Park was created in 1962. It was also listed as California’s “Official State Gold Rush Town”.

An incredibly popular attraction for history fans, about 170 buildings remain in Bodie, most of which are preserved to look almost how they would have during the town’s heyday. This includes a church, stamp mill, various homes complete with contents, and even a museum full of local artefacts.

With both guided and self-guided tours of the town permitted, it provides one of the most authentic old west experiences you will find, helping it to easily deserve its spot on our list of the best wild west towns to visit in America.

Calico, California

A former colemanite and silver mining town located in the hills roughly halfway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles , Calico was originally founded in 1881. While it thrived for the first 9 years of its existence, a drop in silver prices sent Calico into decline beginning in 1890.

By 1900 most residents had left, and it was completely abandoned by 1909. Despite being left to the elements, its location and climate helped preserve much of the town and in the 1950s it was bought by local farmer Walter Knott, best known for his Knotts Berry Farm haunted amusement park .

After taking ownership, he restored most of the buildings to appear just as they would historically have looked in the 1880s. This includes locations like a jail, miners’ cabins, a saloon, railroad office, and a variety of shops, such as a blacksmith and general store.

Between them, they give you the chance to ride a train down into the mine, see demonstrations of how the historic stores functioned and produced goods, enjoy an old-fashioned sarsaparilla, snap some unique photos, and buy handmade products.

Visible from the highway, which is a stretch of the Historic Route 66, due to its name being marked on the side of the hill with white rocks, Calico is one of the best, most overlooked wild west towns in America.

As governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger declared it “California’s Silver Rush Ghost Town”.

Cripple Creek, Colorado

Cripple Creek was established in October 1890 by Robert Womack and was the site of the “last great Colorado Gold Rush”. 18 months later, in June 1892, its population had reached almost 1,000 people and the camp and all surrounding settlements were renamed the Cripple Creek Mining District.

From then, thousands of prospectors travelled to Cripple Creek from across the globe and its population quickly eclipsed 5,000 people. Before long, the Independence Lode, one of the world’s largest gold deposits, was discovered.

Cripple Creek peaked around 1905, at which point it had 35,000 residents, making it the 4th most populous settlement in Colorado. By this point, 22.4 million ounces of gold had been extracted from the mines, worth roughly $500 million.

In order to accommodate this huge population, vast infrastructure including assay offices, barbers, brothels, casinos, churches, doctors, department stores, grocery stores, hotels, lawyers, newspapers, restaurants, saloons, schools, stockbrokers, and even a college had been established.

However, by 1910, many of the mines had started to dry up and people began leaving in their droves. While the town was never completely deserted and mining continued there until the early 2000s, its population dropped as low as just a few hundred people.

Declared a United States National Historic Landmark in 1961, it remained a semi-ghost town until 1991, with just a few facilities open for tourists visiting the iconic location. It was then that the state legalised gambling in the town and it entered a renaissance.

Many of the historic stores and buildings were quickly turned into casinos and gambling halls, which drew back those seeking an authentic wild west experience. With other attractions like the Cripple Creek Heritage Center and Butte Opera House, the town offers the complete old west experience.

You even have the Cripple Creek And Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. A 4 mile (6.5 km) circular track that runs historic steam trains, trips will pass multiple ghost towns, glory holes, and gold mines, some of which offer tours, helping you to see the entire region how it once was.

That concludes our list of the 10 best wild west towns to visit in America. From big, famous locations like Deadwood and Tombstone to lesser known destinations like Calico, and from mining hot spots to cow towns, you should now have plenty of places to go and experience the old west for yourself.

For those who really want to soak in the culture, you could even go on a road trip between two of the towns, through the “Cowboy State”, for an immersive wild west expedition. However you choose to see it though, all that’s left to do is to make the leap and get things booked.

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Relive the Wild West in Kansas’ colorful cattle towns bustling with stagecoaches, shootouts, and ice-cold sarsaparilla. Our unique heritage includes famous forts and trails  along with museums devoted to Native American  history, pioneer heritage, the American Civil War, as well as the rapid development of industry and railroads in the 19th century. Plan your step back in time in Kansas today! 

A Cowboy State

Explore the old west, you may also enjoy, native american heritage.

Kansas is home to indigenous populations whose history is embedded in the very soil of the state. Learn about the culture, traditions, and…

Forts + Trails

Visit historic forts and trails in Kansas to experience the story of the nation's westward expansion and the growth of commerce. 

Head ‘em up and move ‘em out!  Grab your hat and boots for a western adventure in Dodge City.

Named one of the top 20 “best small towns to visit” by Smithsonian Magazine, Abilene is the hometown of 5-Star General and 34th…

Enjoy... the natural geographic wonders of Mushroom Rock State Park or take a walk back in time through Faris Caves, with its story-telling…

Visit Historic Lecompton: Civil War Birthplace, Where Slavery Began to Die. Lecompton was the Territorial Capital of Kansas from 1854-1861.

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

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Unmissable Wild West Experiences in the USA

Saddle up, partner: these 6 sites, attractions and museums across america will transport you back to the lawless days of the old west..

Harry Sherrin

17 jan 2022.

The days of the American Wild West may be long since gone, but the history of that lawless era is still etched in the landscapes, towns and saloons of the former American frontier.

For those keen to experience what life was like in the Old West, here are 6 historic attractions that will allow you to walk in the shoes – or cowboy boots – of a 19th-century gunslinger . At these sites, you’ll be able to witness reenactments of infamous shootouts, retrace the steps of notorious outlaws and explore exhibits on just about every aspect of the Wild West.

Fit for thrill-seekers, history fans and families alike, here are 6 Wild West attractions to visit across America.

1. Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Wyoming

A complex of five separate museums housed on one site, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a must-visit for fans of the American West. Based in Cody, Wyoming, the museum is an essential resource of Wild West history , with extensive collections and a broad remit covering everything from classic western artworks to Native American history.

Start at the Buffalo Bill Musem, which features a whole host of different Wild West artefacts and exhibits. Then take a look around the Plains Indian Museum and learn all about Native American culture, traditions and history.

The site also features the Cody Firearms Museum, which boasts thousands of historic weapons, the Draper National History Museum, covering Yellowstone’s flora and fauna through time, and the extensive western art collections of the Whitney Western Art Museum.

2. The Birdcage Theatre, Arizona

The Birdcage Theatre is a historic gambling den, brothel, theatre and saloon located in the once lawless town of Tombstone, Arizona . In its prime during the late 19th century, the Birdcage played host to vaudeville acts, the longest poker game in history (played from 1881 to 1889) and more than its fair share of violence and gunslinging.

Nowadays, the Birdcage Theatre is a museum. And though it’s less of a hotbed for mischief, the relics of the saloon’s violent past haven’t entirely faded from view. Bullet holes still line the walls, for instance, and visitors can explore the old brothel rooms around the back of the building.

3. OK Corral Historic Complex, Arizona

On 26 October 1881, tensions between the Earp brothers (Virgil, Morgan and Wyatt) and rival gang the Cowboys reached a breaking point. A 30-second gunfight, known as the shootout at the OK Corral, played out on the streets of Tombstone, leaving 3 dead and 3 others wounded.

Today, visitors to Tombstone can watch reenactments of the famed shootout at the OK Corral Historic Complex, on the site of the fateful gun battle. You can also explore photographic exhibits, tour reconstructions of an 1880s stable, ride in a Wild West buggy and pan for gemstones in a replica mining sluice.

4. Whiskey Row, Arizona

Prescott, Arizona, was once a Gold Rush boomtown, famed for its population of prospectors, cowboys, settlers and outlaws . In 1900, a fire devastated a large portion of the settlement. But the town quickly rebuilt, with a row of some 40 saloons appearing on the site of the blaze. This melting pot of drinking dens became known as Whiskey Row.

Whiskey Row still stands today, and visitors to the area can enjoy a tipple at a historic saloon, watch live reenactments of shootouts on the street and relive the lawless days of the Old West. It’s not all gambling and gunfights, though: the street is also home to galleries, murals and sweet shops.

5. Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, Colorado

Situated in La Junta, Colorado, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is a former 19th-century trading post. Used primarily as a safe place for trappers, explorers and settlers to trade with the Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, the remote trading post was used for roughly 16 years before being abandoned in 1849.

Bent’s Fort is now a family-friendly attraction and museum, centred around a reconstruction of the former 1840s trading post. Visitors can expect to witness reenactments of the fort’s former life, embark on guided tours of the area and even participate in interactive historical demonstrations.

6. National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma

The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is one of the United States’ leading Wild West heritage institutions. Its extensive collections contain thousands of Native American artworks, an array of Wild West artefacts and the biggest collection of American rodeo memorabilia in the USA.

The museum first opened in 1955, and now serves as an essential resource on the history of the American frontier. Visitors can explore the site’s interactive exhibits, view historic western paintings and sculptures and even tour a replica Old West town.

Dodge City, Kansas – Exploring the Wild West and Beyond

timtrudell Dodge City , Kansas 3

Dodge City. The name conjures up thoughts of the Wild West, where a man’s best friends were his horse and his trusty six-shooter. Fresh off a hard trail’s ride, the first thing he sought was a shot of whatever cheap whiskey the barkeep had behind the counter, and then a little friendly attention from the ladies of the saloon.

Fast forward a hundred years, and Dodge City hangs on to those memories, sharing the days of yesteryear with visitors who want to relive that chapter of America’s history. While the cattle drives involve semis and packing plants, you can still find a good drink around the town.

Disagreements are still settled on the street with a shootout…at least as part of a daily show during the summer months. Boot Hill Museum , while open year-round, showcases the gunfights during the height of the tourist season. The museum, which uses Old West storefronts as part of its charm, will expand in 2020 to include a contemporary looking building that can hold thousands more historical artifacts and exhibits.

Fans of the television series “Gunsmoke” may recall Dodge City. Marshal Matt Dillon and his deputy Festus kept the western town safe from vermin and other ne’er-do-wells. The real Dodge City relishes the relationship it developed with the program. From James Arness as Matt Dillon to Kansas native Milburn Stone as “Doc,” the stars reciprocated that affection. Each of the series’ main cast and key supporting actors have been honored by the city along its Trail of Fame , with their images (and most, their handprints) emblazoned on the sidewalks around downtown.

Trail of Fame

Arness, Stone, Amanda Blake (Miss Kitty), Ken Curtis (Festus) and Burt Reynolds are among the cast honored. Buck Taylor, who portrayed Newly, became a regular visitor to the city for its summer festival. Dennis Weaver, who played Chester for nine seasons before leaving to become the lead on “McCloud,” was the first person inducted on the Trail of Fame.

A sculpture of Arness as Marshal Dillon stands outside the visitors center , welcoming people to Dodge City. 

One medallion recognizes actor Dennis Hopper, an award-winning actor who was a native of Dodge City. The actor, who may be best known for his role in the movie “Easy Rider,” also donated two sculptures he created to the city. One – La Salsa Man – stands 24 feet tall and is located across the street from the municipal building. The second is located in another town.

Walking tour

Besides the Trail of Fame, Dodge City showcases its history in a variety of ways part of a walking tour – flag pole art near key locations and storyboards that identify significant buildings, as well as sculptures.

As a fan of historical sculptures, I fell in love with them. So many to enjoy – Wyatt Earp with his long coat blowing behind him. depicting the Kansas wind, as well as El Capitan, the larger than life longhorn looking southward in anticipation of seeing his brethren being herded into town.

Doc Holliday’s sculpture sits at a poker table with one hand reaching for his revolver as he watches the gambling pot sitting in the middle of the table. He is a popular photo attraction as you can actually sit in chairs at the table.

As you enjoy the historical walking tour – mine included deputy marshal Charlie Meade – ensure you take in the architecture.  From churches to storefronts to old libraries, Dodge City features uniquely designed buildings. Now the Carnegie Institute for the Arts, the circular building, which was built in 1907, downtown once served as the town’s library.

Not far from the Carnegie building stands the Mueller-Schmidt House. Also known as the Home of Stone, it was immaculately designed. With only two owners before being donated to the city, the house has largely remained unchanged. With furniture representing the families’ eras, including some pieces that belonged to them, the house also includes museum displays recognizing the role women played in Dodge City’s history.

‘Gunsmoke’ connection

My guide has served the community for several decades. Proud of the personal relationships he enjoyed with “Gunsmoke” stars Ken Curtis and Buck Taylor, Meade reminisced about how Curtis enjoyed pulling a practical joke on him at a festival in Wyoming.

“We were having dinner following an event,” he said. “So, I go to meet him in the bar. I look around and don’t see him.”

Finally, asking the bartender if “Festus” had been to the bar, the man pointed to a dark corner. As he walked over, Meade realized Curtis pulled a fast one on him as he stood up, laughing, dressed in a Hawaiian-print shirt,  khaki shorts and flip flops. Not the cowboy duds, the Dodge City deputy expected.

Later, in Curtis’ final days, they shared one last laugh. 

“I called him to see how he was doing. He said, ‘Do you remember that time I pranked you? That was a good time. I’ve been thinking about that day.'”

Meade smiled in memory of his old friend.

Santa Fe Trail

Located on the Santa Fe Trail, you can still find wagon wheel ruts a few miles west of town at the Santa Fe Trail rut site. During the tourism season, you may want to hop aboard a trolley tour that can take you to the spot.

Its history as a cowboy town plays a role with businesses and attractions. Boot Hill Museum’s love for the Wild West is on display as you stroll down the boarded walk in front of western-style storefronts serving as a general store, hotel and, of course, the Long Branch Saloon. Enjoy a cold drink – adult and soda – at the bar or one of the tables where you can imagine a few card games going on.

A small stage is in the spotlight during peak tourist season as dance hall girls perform. Of course, the costumes may be risqué to some, but the performances are family-friendly.

Since it is a museum, you can view exhibits highlighting early life in the area, including Native American tribes, and European-American settlers. The museum also features types of weapons used by law officers, outlaws and frontiersmen, as well as businesses such as a drug store and newspaper.

Distillery, brewery attractions

While Dodge City embraces its past, the city also enjoys its role in creating contemporary attractions, such as Boot Hill Distillery . Located atop a hill overlooking the city’s main drag,  the site was the original Boot Hill Cemetery. City leaders thought the land was too valuable to bury dead cowboys, so bodies were moved to a new site. A school was built there; and when it outgrew its usefulness, the building became home to city government offices, including a courtroom and jail. Later, the city moved its offices to a new building.

Owned by the Kelman family, Boot Hill Distillery removes the middleman from its business process. Using grain grown by the family farm, the Kelmans handle the entire distilling process themselves.

Using what for gin and vodka and corn to make whiskey, Boot Hill Distillery processes spirits from the farm to the tasting room. They also raise rye, but don’t currently have plans for its use yet.

Handling the distilling process inside the building’s garage, spirits are processed in 500-gallon batches. Bottling and labeling are manually completed. The final products are among the tastiest whiskey and spirits you’ll find in Kansas.

With its beautiful architectural design, the distillery is an attraction itself. Outside the main entrance stands the Cowboy, a sculpture of local Joe Sughrue created in 1927 to recognize Dodge City’s cowboy and cattle trail era.

Down the hill from the distillery is Dodge City Brewing . Creating six to eight flavors of beer, visitors can find the brews on tap in the tasting room. The brewery also serves New York-style pizza baked in a brick oven.

Culinary scene

Dodge City has an impressive culinary scene. From the New York-style pizza to amazing steaks, you can find a dish from almost any style of cuisine.

Central Station Bar and Grill offers three areas for a fun date night. A more traditional steakhouse dining room menu invites you to try great-tasting Midwestern steaks or casual dining inside a converted train car.

Sports fans can shoot pool and enjoy a casual menu while watching games on 16 television sets. The third section – a dance club – welcomes music fans.

A throwback to classic steakhouses your parents and grandparents frequented in the 1960s and ’70s, Casey’s Cowtown Club has called Dodge City home for nearly 25 years. With large and tasty steaks, with portions to match, Mike Casey has created a popular dining destination. Even celebrities such as Willie Nelson crave the menu when traveling through Dodge City.

The restaurant also features western-themed decor featuring photos of cowboys and Native Americans and other memorabilia, including a bison covered in denim.

While popular with gamblers,  Boot Hill Casino and Resort features a couple of restaurants. While Firesides features an upscale dinner menu, the Cowboy Cafe offers a casual menu, with its burgers the most popular items.

Red Beard Coffee

As you tour downtown Dodge City, stop in at Red Beard Coffee for a tasty drink. Since I’m a latte guy, I usually order a vanilla-flavored drink. However, I grabbed a seasonal drink highlighting a maple flavor.  The two-year-old coffeehouse is the only true local coffee shop in town.

During my visit,  I stayed at the recently-opened Hampton Inn and Suites . Located adjacent to Boot Hill Casino, the hotel is a perfect place to stay. I admit I’ve become a fan of the Hampton chain over the years, so I’m always confident I’ll enjoy my visit.

As a kid, I wanted to be a cowboy when I grew up. So,  my visit to Dodge City brought out the cowboy nerd in me. Lisa wants to visit and the visitors bureau recommended a return trip during the summer months. I’m already planning to wear my cowboy hat on our return visit. Since I know I plan to return, I think it’s safe to say I strongly recommend visiting Dodge City.

Tim Trudell

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Old West Attractions

Despite its metropolitan, 21st-century leanings, Denver still retains a good deal of its Old West legacy. Around every corner, you’ll find some remnant of the pioneer era, as the past blends seamlessly into the present. Take some time to explore the city's bygone days by visiting a few of the attractions below.

HISTORY COLORADO CENTER

Celebrate Colorado's glorious landscapes on a three-story multimedia presentation. Virtually travel the plains in a Model T Ford. Don a headlamp and descend into the hard rock mine of Silverton. Soar off the world's first ski jump in Steamboat Springs. Do all this and more among Colorado's most historic treasures. True Colorado experiences come alive at the  History Colorado Center , located in downtown Denver. 

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF WESTERN ART - THE ANSCHUTZ COLLECTION

The mission of the nonprofit American Museum of Western Art is "to promote the public's understanding and appreciation of art depicting the American West from the early 1800s through the present day." The 26,000-square-foot space features masterpieces from the Anschutz Collection, including frontier-inspired works by Frederic Remington, George Catlin and Charles Marion Russell.

History Colorado provides fascinating peeks into Colorado's past.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ARSENAL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE​

The  Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge  supports more than 330 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, offering a peek into life on the plains. American bison were reintroduced to the Refuge, marking the return of an animal that was once a key component of prairie ecosystems and a staple of cowboy and Native American folklore. Visitors will also see mule deer, white-tailed deer, coyotes, red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, great horned owls and a nesting pair of bald eagles.

BUFFALO BILL GRAVE AND MUSEUM

One of the most famous cowboys ever to put on a pair of spurs, William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody epitomized the Old West. After leaving his boyhood home in Leavenworth, Kansas at age 11, Cody went on to become a cattle herder, worked on a wagon train, mined for gold, rode in the Pony Express, scouted for the Army, and traveled the world with his namesake Buffalo Bill's Wild West shows. Upon his request he was buried atop Lookout Mountain, just a short drive from Denver, in 1917. Lookout Mountain's name is well earned: it boasts one of the best views in all of Colorado – and that's saying something!

The  Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum  opened in 1921 and offers a look into life in the Old West, with exhibits on Buffalo Bill's life, the Wild West shows, Indian artifacts including Sitting Bull's bows and arrows, Western art, and firearms. Each February, the museum hosts a Buffalo Bill Birthday Celebration, featuring costumed volunteers discussing the Native Americans, buffalo and cowboys that were such a vital part of Buffalo Bill's life. While you're in the area, check out the City of Denver's  Buffalo Herd Nature Preserve   (20 miles west of Denver at I-70, Exit 250), with 40 buffalo in a natural setting – the only city-maintained herd in the country. Afterwards, enjoy downtown  Golden , with shops, restaurants and plenty of Old West ambiance.

BLACK AMERICAN WEST MUSEUM

For decades, Hollywood westerns depicted a Wild West that was populated almost entirely by white people. The  Black American West Museum  puts this myth to rest permanently by highlighting the prominent role Blacks played in the settlement of Colorado as miners, soldiers, homesteaders, schoolteachers, ranchers, blacksmiths, cowboys and lawmen. This fascinating museum, located in the former home of Colorado's first black woman doctor, hosts countless photographs, artifacts and interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Wild West through a different lens.

FOUR MILE HISTORIC PARK

On the banks of Cherry Creek, just four miles from Downtown Denver, the true-to-its-name  Four Mile Historic Park 's pastoral 12 acres feature Denver's oldest standing structure, pioneer exhibits, special events for all ages, and guided tours that transport visitors to Colorado's frontier past. Once a wayside inn and stage stop, the Four Mile House and grounds offer a unique Old West experience. In addition to museum and grounds tours, family activities include annual special events, such as an Old-Fashioned July 4th Celebration; the Great Pumpkin Harvest Festival in October; and traditional holiday festivities during A Colorado Christmas.

Do as the celebs do and shop Rockmount Ranch Wear for some cowboy-inspired duds to take home.

ROCKMOUNT RANCH WEAR

No cowboy tour of Denver would be complete without buying, or at least considering, some of the clothing popularized by these hardy souls. A Denver original, fashion pioneer and CEO of  Rockmount Ranch Wear , Papa Jack Weil – who passed away in 2008 at the grand old age of 107 – invented the western snap-button shirt and opened shop back in 1946. He sold his shirts to presidents and rock stars alike including Eric Clapton and Bruce Springsteen. Stop by the flagship store and museum to browse the incredible selection of Western-style shirts, hats and accessories.

CIVIC CENTER PARK

Civic Center Park  is a two-block oasis filled with flower gardens and Old West art, located a stone's throw from Colorado's magnificent Capitol Building. Check out Allen True's murals, located in the park's Greek Theatre, depicting pioneers in the wilderness, and the two Western-themed bronze statues,  Bronco Buster  and  On the War Trail , by Denverite Alexander Phimister Proctor.

WESTERN AMERICAN ART COLLECTION AT THE DENVER ART MUSEUM

The  Denver Art Museum 's extensive collection includes work by Western masters such as George Catlin, Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell, John Mix Stanley, Alfred Jacob Miller, and others. The crown jewel in the institute's collection is Charles Deas's  Long Jakes, The Rocky Mountain Man , the single most influential image in Rocky Mountain iconography.

AUTHENTIC RESTAURANTS

A full-size replica of an adobe fur-trade fort with scenic views of downtown Denver,  The Fort  is an award-winning restaurant that has been featured in the  New York Times, Sunset , and  Bon Appetit  as one of the nation's most recognized establishments. Fare features fine beef, buffalo, game and seafood.

THE BUCKHORN EXCHANGE

The  Buckhorn Exchange , Denver's oldest restaurant, is rich in Colorado history and serves up a unique menu of wild game and steak in a rustic, elegant atmosphere. The menu features steak, buffalo and elk. This historic steakhouse is a must-see for everyone.

ANNUAL EVENTS

National western stock show.

Called the "Super Bowl of Cattle Shows," the  National Western Stock Show  is a Denver tradition, honoring the country's rich Old West heritage. Held every January at the  National Western Complex , it is the world's largest stock show – and each year is bigger and better than the last, with more than 15,000 animals, plus rodeo performances, Mexican rodeos, bull riders, horse shows, livestock competitions, auctions and booths selling everything from cowboy boots to Native American jewelry. Don't miss out on this only-in-Denver event.

DENVER MARCH POWWOW

Since 1974, the heritage of American Indians has been celebrated in Denver every year at the  Denver March Powwow , one of the largest events of its kind in the country. The Powwow, taking place every March, features more than 1,600 dancers from close to 100 tribes from 38 states and three Canadian provinces. The three-day event in the  Denver Coliseum  is packed with singing, dancing, storytelling, food, art and more, ensuring a wonderful experience for everyone.

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Experience The Old West In Arizona With These 17 Amazing Places

Monica Spencer

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 [email protected].

More by this Author

If there’s any place in the country with more old western towns in Arizona , we definitely don’t know what is. Arizona is your quintessential Old West locale, where, depending on who’s telling the narrative, our state’s history was either a mythos of paradise sprung to life, a romanticized image of a cowboy and his horse, or life interrupted by an exceedingly violent period. All of those stories create the image that Arizona continues to carry today and can be safely revisited without needing to make a time machine. We’re going to take a look at a handful of those Old West towns in Arizona and we challenge you to come with us on this wild adventure through the state!

1. Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, Bisbee

2. Castle Dome Mining Museum

3. Fort Bowie National Historic Site

4. Goldfield Ghost Town, Apache Junction

5. Heard Museum, Phoenix

6. Hubbell Trading Post, Ganado

8. Museum of the West, Scottsdale

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10. Old Tucson Studios

11. Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse, Tucson

12. Pioneer Living History Museum, Phoenix

13. Rawhide Wild West Town, Chandler

14. San Xavier del Bac, Tucson

15. Tombstone

16. Tumacacori National Historic Park

17. Whiskey Row, Prescott

Have you visited any of these wild west towns in Arizona? Let us know which is your favorite when it comes to old cowboy towns in Arizona… and if we missed any.

If you’re feeling especially proud of Arizona, be sure to check out these state-pride apparel items from Wear Your Roots !

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Old western towns in arizona.

What are some other Old West towns in Arizona?

Does it get more Old West or Wild West than an old mining town in Arizona... that's now a ghost town?! If you've ever wondered what life was like in the Old West, visit Apache Junction, Arizona. Because it's here you'll find Goldfield. A few things to know about Goldfield:

• Goldfield is a historic settlement that was very much a thriving town in its day.
• High-grade gold ore was discovered here in 1892, and the town received an official post office the following year.
• The community boomed for five years, eventually boasting a population of 1,500.
• But Goldfield was not built to last, and the town's population dwindled as this precious commodity inevitably ran out.
• When the post office was decommissioned in 1898, Goldfield officially became a ghost town.
• Today, however, it's a popular tourist attraction where visitors can relive a romantic time in American history.

What a wild Arizona adventure!

What are some other Old West attractions to visit in Arizona?

When it comes to Old West attractions to visit in Arizona, one of the first things that comes to mind is the old saloons. Some of the highly recommended Old West Saloons in Arizona include:

• Crown King Saloon
• Crystal Palace Saloon
• The Drift Inn Saloon

A few more thoughts on these saloons. People are all about Old West saloons here in Arizona . Can you blame them? There’s nothing more iconic than watching an old Western film to see a character storm into a saloon, the sun filtering through dusty windows, and boots stomping on wooden floors. It’s a sight that lives up to the romance of the Old West yet is one that you probably wouldn’t want to find yourself in considering the wild atmosphere these establishments were known for. These days, you can still walk into a saloon right here in Arizona. However, unlike the movies, you probably won’t get to step through a pair of swinging, wooden doors, hand hovering over a pistol, or smelling whatever musty, sweat-driven scents must have lingered in the air all those decades ago. But at least you get to order a drink and wonder what those old miners, lawmen, and other patrons must have discussed at similar tables. Cowboy boots and sheriff stars definitely welcome!

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10 Authentic Old West Towns in Colorado

April 20, 2024 By //  by  Jessica Hughes

Because of Colorado’s Wild West past and multiple mining rushes, the Southern Rocky Mountains are filled with historic towns. Some went belly-up and turned to ghost towns, while others burnt to the ground. Luckily, many were well-preserved and welcome visitors today looking to experience the Old West on their vacations.

In the 1800s, Colorado quickly became the hub of activity after gold was discovered. Those looking to make it rich quickly came to Colorado seeking their fortune, which brought in a slew of hard-working, rowdy, and unruly men.

These new residents helped build some of the state’s current towns and brought stories of the Wild West. Tales about mining for gold and silver, rowdy saloons, and gun-slinging showdowns.

When the mines started to close and the value of silver declined, these old mining towns went belly up, and to save them they turned to tourism to help stay afloat. Plus, with historical preservation efforts, these Old West towns of Colorado still stand today as a representation of what life once was and offer a peek into the past for modern-day travelers.

Here are some of the best Old West towns in Colorado , in no particular order:

Central City, CO

Located just 35 miles west of Denver, Central City has been luring in locals and travelers alike for years, all for the chance to strike it rich. Back in its earliest beginnings, Central City made its fortune as one of the first important gold discoveries in Colorado. In the early 1870s, Central City saw its peak, coining the name, “The Richest Square Mile on Earth.”

Then the fire of 1874 destroyed most of the town, and soon several years later, Leadville was to take the spot as the leader of gold mining. Thankfully though, Central City rebuilt its downtown in nearly all brick buildings, which lasted longer than the wooden buildings that stood before.

It’s believed by experts that there are over 17,000 mining claims near Central City. A popular attraction in Gilpin County is to take one of the several mining tours in Central City, plus nearby Idaho Springs and Nevadaville.

Today Central City remains a vibrant town in Colorado with its many casinos, historic buildings, including the Central City Opera House, and its well-preserved historic downtown.

Part of the Cripple Creek Mining District, Victor lies on the southwest side of Pikes Peak and is an important part of Colorado’s gold country. The gold brought in rowdy men from the mining industry, creating a town full of brothels and saloons.

Designated as a National Historic District and an intricate stop along the Gold Belt National Scenic Byway, Victor played and continues to play an important role in Colorado tourism.

Today visitors can walk the historic streets of downtown of this iconic mining town with its unique late 1800s mine structures, Victorian-era homes, and historic turn-of-the-century buildings. Together, they make Victor one of the best remaining Old West towns of Colorado. Plus, discover the mining relics that are scattered around the outskirts of the town’s central district.

Cripple Creek, CO

Similar to its neighbor Victor, Cripple Creek got its start as a bustling mining town, drawing in thousands of gold enthusiasts in search of their fast fortune. As Colorado’s last and biggest mining boom, The Gold Rush is an important part of Cripple Creek’s history.

By 1894, Cripple Creek was the economic capital of the Cripple Creek Mining District, which had 150 active mines, making millions that year. Within that same year, they moved its notorious brothels from Bennett Avenue to Myers Avenue, creating a new red-light district with over 300 prostitutes.

Cripple Creek still stands today as a casino hot spot in Colorado, which is now the town’s most important source of income. Explore Cripple Creek’s rich heritage with a visit to historic sites including the Butte Theater, Cripple Creek Jail Museum, and the Victor Hotel Thomas Museum, plus be sure to see the operating Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine that still produces gold to this day.

Silverton, CO

Prospectors in search of gold and silver found exactly that along the Animas River in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. As a result, roughly ten years later, the town of Silverton was laid out and became the central cog within the richest silver-mining regions in the state.

By the early 1880s, Silverton had reached several thousand people and consisted of 400 buildings, where the saloons outnumbered the other businesses by 3:1. Beyond the rowdy bar scene, Silverton was also home to the infamous Blair Street, the town’s red-light district filled with prostitutes and the less-law abiding citizens.

Today, Silverton still stands as a favorite year-round destination for travelers looking to get a taste of mountain life. Within the town, visitors will enjoy the historic downtown district filled with shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. Be sure to brush up on your history at the Heritage Museum, which takes a look at Silverton’s mining past.

Located in the Rio Grande National Forest in Southwest Colorado, Creede started with humble beginnings as a tourist destination and ranching community. But with the silver boom in the Upper Rio Grande Valley in the late 1800s, a surge of thousands made their way to the area. And mining camps seemed to pop up overnight with camps including Telluride, Silverton, and Ouray.

Of course, along with the influx of prospectors came the gamblers, bandits, and ladies of the night.

Encounter some of Creede’s historic past by taking the Bachelor Historic Loop Tour. The tour takes visitors past 17 different mine structures and shafts that remain as part of the Creede Mining District. And for more about Creede’s mining history visit the Creede Underground Mining Museum and the Last Chance Mine.

Along with the silver boom in Creede, so came the boom of Ouray . Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, this picturesque mountain town, now known as the “Switzerland of America,” was once a rowdy wild west town where silver prospectors came for fast fortunes.

For its law-abiding citizens, Ouray provided restaurants, churches, clothing stores, and a school, while the other side of town hosted numerous saloons and brothels.

While mining continued to play an important role in the town’s economy until the 1980s, today Ouray relies heavily on tourism for its economic gain. Soak up a bit of Ouray’s history at the Ouray County Historical Museum take a stroll through the historic downtown or soak in one of the area’s several natural hot springs that visit Ouray a true treat.

Durango, CO

Unlike most other Old West towns of Colorado, Durango got its start in 1880 with the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad. With its expansion to Silverton, the railroad brought both freight and traveling passengers to town, which added to its growth.

Listed as a National Registered Historic District, the downtown today offers multiple restaurants, prominent hotels, shops, museums, and art galleries. Most of which are housed in the town’s original historic buildings. One of the town’s biggest historic attractions is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which retraces the original route from Durango to Silverton.

Be sure to add other notable historic sites to your visit, including the Strater Hotel and Theater and the Railroad Museum.

Less than 10 miles northeast of Gunnison lies the tiny town of Pitkin . Originally named Quartzville, Pitkin was first established as a small camp mining town due to its many productive mines in the area. In 1880 it reached its peak of 1,000 residents and several hundred structures, all of which included businesses, restaurants, and of course several saloons.

Today, Pitkin is home to less than 100 residents and offers one of the best mining camp ruins in the state. Other attractions include its historic church, which only operates in the summer, and the historic Alpine Tunnel that runs through the Continental Divide.

Leadville, CO

The mining district of Leadville was once the richest in the country. After its first discovery of gold in 1860, this gun-slinging town saw two major mining booms, which brought thousands of residents, businesses, saloons, brothels, and more riches they knew what to do with.

Heavily invested in profitable gold and silver mines, Leadville was a bustling town with lots of money to spend on saloons, dance halls, beautiful Victorian mansions, and the construction of the Tabor Opera House.

Today the Victorian-era town of Leadville is designated as a National Historic District and still stands as a beautiful reminder of the past and a tribute to what mountain-town living in Colorado used to be like. Must-see historical sites to see include the Tabor Opera House, Heritage Museum, and the Leadville Mining Museum.

Georgetown, CO

First settled in 1859 with the discovery of gold, Georgetown would later become one of Colorado’s most important silver mining towns of the 1870s. The Georgetown-Silver Plume mining district was centered in Georgetown, where the money was invested, evident by the abundance of Victorian-era homes that line the streets downtown.

Soon a local newspaper developed, the Barton House opened and banks thrived. Plus saloons and pool halls to entertain the miners were abundant.

It’s part of the Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic District, which includes Silver Plume , Georgetown, and the Georgetown Loop Historic Mining & Railroad Park. The town still stands for its rich mining heritage with the Hamill House Museum, the Alpine Hose Firehouse, and the scenic Georgetown Loop Railroad, built in 1884 and still serving passengers today.

Those are among our favorite Old West towns anywhere. Have a wonderful time experiencing Colorado’s colorful past and present.

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The Old West

Not only did some of the Wild West's most famous events happen right here, but countless preserved towns, cities, and sites continue to tell the Old West story.

Before statehood, the Arizona Territory was home to some of the most feared outlaws and respected lawmen who walked the streets—from Bisbee's Brewery Gulch to Prescott's Whiskey Row. During its heyday as a tough mining town, the New York Times called Tombstone's Birdcage Theater, "the wildest, roughest, wickedest honky-tonk between Basin Street and the Barbary Coast," while the New York Sun once labeled Jerome, another mining town, the "wickedest town in the West."

Wicked or not, these towns still have character and charm that’s a must for experiencing first-hand.

Across the state, the Old West lives on in Arizona. Wherever you go, you'll find an Old West that's still very much alive, with countless historic hotels, quaint shops, and more. You'll also discover plenty of attractions—including tours and reenactments—to keep the whole family engaged.

Start your trip in Southern Arizona, home to Tombstone , Bisbee , and Douglas .

Imagine the sound of spurs clicking as you walk the same streets where Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp once walked. You'll also want to make time for Wickenburg , in Central Arizona, as well as Jerome and Prescott —two towns connected by 30 miles of hair-raising bends and turns along Highway 89A—in the central area of Arizona known as the Verde Valley.

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From the abundance of Saguaro cactuses and unique wildlife in the Sonoran Desert to the high country and forests of the White Mountains to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, Arizona’s regions are full of experiences that don’t disappoint.

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Phoenix may have gussied itself up from its days as a frontier town, but the Old West is still alive and well — you just have to look for it. So, dust off those cowboy boots and enjoy these Western-themed attractions in the Greater Phoenix area.

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Pioneer arizona living history museum.

  If you ever want to feel like you teleported into Westworld, take a trip to the Pioneer Living History Museum in Phoenix, AZ. These are just a couple of the many old western style buildings on the acres of desert. Perfect for history buffs and people who want to feel like they traveled back in time. 🙋🏻‍♀️ A post shared by Tia (@iowagirladventures) on Feb 27, 2018 at 5:23pm PST

Step back in time and experience territorial Arizona through a walk around this living history town, comprised of 90 acres of authentic buildings and accurate reproductions.

3901 W Pioneer Rd, Phoenix 85086 623-465-1052

Goldfield Ghost Town

  A post shared by Traveling Robert (@travelingrobert) on Feb 7, 2018 at 5:47am PST

A 115-year-old town still stands on the historic Apache Trail in Apache Junction. Explore what was once Goldfield, a bustling mining town of the late 1800s and early 1900s, and take a mine tour, slither through the Superstition Reptile Exhibit or watch an Old Western gun fight.

4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction 85119 480-983-0333

Frontier Town AZ

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Diana Anghelus (@diangeltravel) on Jan 26, 2020 at 12:27am PST

Tortilla Flat started out as a stage stop in 1904 and neither fire nor flood has been able to remove this historic stop along the Apache Trail. Today you can enjoy Western-themed fun, food and re-enactments.

1 Main Street, Tortilla Flat 85190 480-984-1776

Superstition Mountain Museum

  It's like I walked onto the set of a Hollywood western. #arizona #apachejunction #church #superstitiousmountains #desert #desertlife #az #arizonaphotographer #arizonaphotography #usa #america #mountains #ipulledoverforthis A post shared by James Kirkikis (@jameskirkikis) on Mar 8, 2018 at 6:05am PST

The Superstition Mountain Museum collects, preserves and displays the artifacts, history and folklore of the Superstition Mountains, Apache Junction and surrounding region.

4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction 85119 480-983-4888

Cave Creek Museum

Delve into the rich mining and pioneer history of Cave Creek, a town on the skirts of the desert foothills. The museum exhibits artifacts preserved from the lives of Native Americans, ranchers and settlers that inhabited the area.

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Handlebar j restaurant & saloon.

  A post shared by Jim Bachmann (@jim.bachmann) on May 22, 2017 at 10:26pm PDT

If you’re looking for a place to do some two-steppin’, Handlebar J Restaurant & Saloon is your place. Enjoy Western-style cuisine, live country music, and dance lessons on select days.

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Rustler’s Rooste

  A post shared by brian (@bpont) on Apr 8, 2018 at 6:27pm PDT

Rustler’s Rooste mountaintop eatery boasts one of the best places to catch a sunset in Phoenix. You can also enjoy nightly live Country Western music, casual dining, and their famous tin slide.

8383 S 48th St, Phoenix 85044 602-431-6474

Harold’s Corral

Johnny Walker opened the Corral Bar in 1935 to serve the workers who were building Bartlett Dam. Today, Harold’s is a popular stomping ground for both locals and visitors. You can always count on lively entertainment and a great Western meal at Harold’s Corral.

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Stockyards Restaurant

  A post shared by Alejandro Vidal III (@aljohn_vidal) on Oct 14, 2017 at 6:42pm PDT

Recently added to the City of Phoenix Historical Register for both its central role in Arizona’s cattle industry and its relevant architectural style, The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, has retained its Old West comfort and charm while regaining its foothold as one of Phoenix’s favorite steakhouses.

5009 E Washington St #115, Phoenix 85034 602-273-7378

The Great Outdoors

Ponderosa stables.

This winding scenic drive and former stagecoach route cuts through mountains, canyons, cliff-dwellings, and attractions like Goldfield Ghost Town and Tortilla Flat , affording beautiful views and a peek into the past. The 40-mile route begins at the intersection of Arizona State Route 88 and Idaho Road in Apache Junction and connects to Globe, AZ.

Apache Trail SR 88, Apache Junction 85120

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Journey to a different era as you venture through the overland stage trail on a horse drawn carriage. Trade in your typical museum to learn legends and tales of the Old West aboard a full-size Concord Coach. 

41227 N Castle Hot Springs Rd, Morristown 602-710-4229

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12 OLD WEST TOWNS IN ARIZONA YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT

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There are many old west towns in Arizona if you want to travel back in time to the days of the old Wild West when the Arizona Territory was home to some of the most feared outlaws, among homesteaders and cowboys.

From Arizona’s small towns packed with rich history and legends to quirky cities and villages that are no longer inhabited, there are a lot of fascinating things waiting to be discovered.

Do you know? Today there are about 130 known ghost town sites in Arizona .

While some are completely abandoned some are among the most visited destinations in the Grand Canyon State.

These old west towns in Arizona give us glimpses of the “wicked” past through the historic old towns lined with saloons, hotels, quaint shops, and interesting museums.

These Arizona old west towns are also perfect to plan an offbeat trip without crowds.

Read on to learn about planning a trip to old west towns in AZ.

If you are game for spooky experiences of haunted hotels and streets, check out my guide to the best ghost towns in Arizona for a thrilling trip .

Table of Contents

BEST OLD WEST TOWNS IN ARIZONA

Bisbee , located near the Mexican border only about 30 minutes from Tombstone, is one of the unique old western towns in Arizona that has gained popularity in recent years.

Located southeast of Tucson Bisbee in Cochise County, nestled in the rolling mountains, does not exude the typical charm of any Arizona ghost town, as the town is home to over 4000 residents.

But the rich past of Bisbee and its excellent location and all-year-round pleasant weather make it one of my favourite Arizona mining towns.

Bisbee was accidentally discovered in 1877 by a group of US Army scouts and cavalrymen who stumbled upon significant amounts of lead, copper, and silver. 

The word soon spread resulting in a large influx of migrants looking to make the most of these minerals.

In a few years, Bisbee became known as the “Queen of the Copper Camps,” with a mining settlement for over 20,000 miners, prospectors, and their families.

Bisbee became one of the richest mineral sites in the world, producing gold, copper, silver, and zinc, producing almost a quarter of the world’s copper.

It was the largest town in the Southwest between St. Louis and San Francisco.

BEST TOURS TO EXPLORE BISBEE

✅ Half-Day Arizona Wine Country Tasting Tour – I highly recommend this day tour for all wine lovers. Taking a wine tour from Bisbee or Sierra Vista to Arizona’s picturesque wine country of Sonoita-Elgin makes a fantastic day. Read more details here to book.

✅ Guided E-Bike Tour of Bisbee, Arizona (Rating – 🤩5/5, 30+ reviews) – Join a small group and ride around Old Bisbee to learn about the town’s history, art, and architecture with guides for 2 hours. Book here .

✅ 1-Hour Tour Old Bisbee City Cart (Rating – 🤩5/5, 40+ reviews) – This is an interactive 1-hour ride through Old Bisbee, highlighting the infamous and not-famous stories and sights that make Bisbee the charming beauty it is.  Find more details here.

✅ 3 Hour Private Bisbee Pub Crawl (Rating – 🤩5/5, 10+ reviews) – Find out more here to book .

After a century of a prosperous run, the mines gave away as the mineral reserves depleted, with the last mine being shut forever in 1975.

Today, most of the rich historic past of Bisbee is well-preserved, thanks to the efforts of the residents.

Walking through the old-fashioned downtown lined with whimsical art galleries, bustling shops, unique museums, cute cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Tour the museums of Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, and Bisbee Restoration Museum to get an in-depth look into the lives of miners and settlers back in the day.

Or better, join the world-famous Queen Mine Tour, which takes you 1,500 feet underground to explore one of the abandoned mines. 

Here you will get your hands dirty wearing mining hats and slickers and riding the train deep underground to search for precious metals.

Stop at Central School, and Lavender Pit, and for some spooky experiences, you can visit the Bisbee Seance Room, a Victoria parlour for the paranormal.

Join the Old Bisbee Ghost Tour strolling amidst ancient buildings and listening to the gory tales sending a chill down your spine.

Or spend overnight at the historic Copper Queen Hotel, dating back to 1902, which is rumoured to be haunted as well.

Halloween is one of the most popular times to visit Bisbee as the whole town comes alive with many themed parties, haunted tours, and markets.

WHERE TO STAY IN BISBEE?

✅ Letson Loft Hotel – Letson Loft Hotel 🏨 is one of the best hotels in the town. Rooms also offer a kitchenette with a fridge, a microwave and a toaster.

You can also enjoy activities in and around Bisbee, like hiking and cycling. Find more details to book here .

Located south of Flagstaff and in the dense Black Hills mountain s within the Verde Valley at over 5000 feet, Jerome is one of the top old west towns in Arizona. 

Nicknamed the most vertical city, Jerome is also the largest ghost town in the United States.

If you want to be introduced to the culture of Arizona ghost towns, Jerome is the best place to be as it is one of the best mining towns symbolising the Old Wild West.

Founded in 1876 with the discovery of gold and copper deposits in the area, Jerome attracted large numbers of migrants from everywhere, mainly miners, gamblers, and old-west bad boys. 

This large-scale migration brought a wide boom, leading to the construction of many saloons and brothels.

The mines near Jerome were rich in copper rather than silver, with the mines producing 3 million pounds of copper per month, and during its peak time, the town inhabited over 15000 people.

Jerome got rightly nicknamed ‘The Billion Dollar Copper Camp’.

Here are some of the best tours I recommend to explore Jerome conveniently:

✅ Historic Tour of Jerome from Sedona(Likely to sell out)(4.9/5 50+ reviews🤩) – Enjoy fantastic mining history, charming architecture, and desert scenery on an intimate small group tour running for 4.5 hours. Find more details here.

✅ Jerome History Walk (5/5 50+ reviews🤩)- If you are in the city, I highly recommend this top 1-hour tour that gives you the best highlights of the city. Check out more details here.

✅ Wild Wild West Tour of Jerome (4.9/5 50+ reviews🤩) – This 1.5-hours Wild Wild West Tour of Jerome takes you to historical spots. Check out more details here .

✅ Jerome Tour from Sedona (4.9/5 10+ reviews🤩) – Learn about Jerome’s history, and see the sights, explore, and have lunch. On the way, you’ll stop at the ruins of Tuzigoot National Monument, an ancient Sinagua pueblo. Check out more details here of this 5-hours tour .

✅ Pandora’s Box Ghost Adventure(4.7/5 60+ reviews🤩) – Increase your chances of experiencing paranormal activity during a ‘Pandora’s Box’ ghost tour that focuses on stories of murder, lust, and revenge on this 2-hours tour. Check out more details here.

It grew into one of the richest cities in the US at this time, and over 70 years, these copper mines in Jerome generated over a billion dollars worth of precious metal.

Eventually, in the 1950s, the mines began drying up.

As expected, the town’s population dwindled to less than a hundred, Jerome was designated a National Historic District in 1967, and artists began to flock to the town in the 60s and 70s. 

Today, Jerome is home to 450 residents, making it the largest populated ghost town. 

It is a vibrant community with old buildings of the 1800s renovated into art galleries, museums, coffee shops, antique shops, craft stores, gift and curios shops, and wine bars.

Join one of the guided tours to cover the highlights of Jerome, where you will also hear many eerie and interesting tales of this mining town and its past inhabitants.

For history lovers, I recommend this excellent walking tour with a local guide .

Do you know? Jerome is also one of the most haunted towns in Arizona.

There are many popular ghost tours(read my detailed guide) , and if you are here for the first time, I recommend you join one.

No time to read the review? this ghost tour is the one highly recommend if you only have time for one ghost tour in Jerome. Check out more here .

Some of the most haunted places with bizarre and sad histories include the Ghost City Inn, Mile High Grill & Inn, a former brothel, and the Conner Hotel . 

The tour guides will tell unbelievable stories and grim events in these spots.

If you are daring, stay overnight at the Jerome Grand Hotel, also rumoured to be haunted by the spirits of patients, dead miners, and staff.

Even if you’re not into the paranormal, there are many attractions worth visiting in Jerome.

Start from downtown Jerome, home to some galleries, restaurants and tasting rooms — and the famous “Haunted Hamburger” restaurant, worth stopping for lunch or dinner.

Visit the Jerome State Historic Park, home to Douglas Mansion, built in 1916 by a mining magnate.

Check out the unique Sliding Jail, a historic building and a museum constructed in the 1920s.

Over the years, the building has slid down the hill about 200 feet to where it rests now.

The mining museum contains many excellent artefacts, photographs, and ancient equipment belonging to the miners, giving glimpses of the past of the mining town.

If you are with kids, head to the nearby Audrey Head frame Park to admire stunning views of the mountainous landscapes from the glass viewing platform over a 1918 mine shaft. 

WHERE TO STAY IN JEROME?

✅ Connor Hotel 🏨 is one of my favourites I recommend for couples and families. Featuring a bar on site, this historic inn is 20 minutes’ walk from Jerome State Historic Park.

All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen cable TV with satellite channels. Free WiFi is available. Check prices here .

Nestled in the mountains 100 miles north of Phoenix, Prescott may be larger than the other old-west towns in Arizona.

But there are plenty of places to experience the small-town charm and the old-west history.

Among the popular attractions to reminisce about the old west past is Whiskey Row. 

Believed to be one of the haunted spots in Arizona, this comprises a series of buildings housing the oldest business in Arizona, many large historic saloons, the Palace Restaurant and Saloon. 

There are many tours to explore Whiskey Row and if you have time to visit only one historic spot to experience the old west history in Prescott, I would say this should be the one.

There are many fantastic things to do in Prescott no matter when you visit, so I recommend spending at least a week in this charming town.

The many pretty Prescott Lakes are the best respite from the heat, especially Watson Lake known for its spectacular views. 

It is a fantastic stop for a day trip to enjoy paddle board, kayak, or canoeing to explore hidden coves.

WHERE TO STAY?

Hampton Inn Prescott – Hampton Inn Prescott is minutes from Buckey Casino and historic Prescott town centre.

Popular attractions, including Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monument are within driving distance of the Prescott Hampton Inn. This hotel has hundreds of excellent reviews. Find more details here to book.

One of the popular wide old west towns in Arizona, Tombstone is a pretty town close to Bisbee in Cochise County and shares a common past of the Wild West and origins, with Tombstone also being discovered in the 1880s.

Tombstone, famously nicknamed the “town too tough to die,” was one of the leading silver mines during the era.

Within two years of establishment, Tombstone became one of the primarily populated towns.

It was home to more than a hundred saloons, over a dozen gambling halls, a bowling alley, many brothels, four churches, theatres, and large public office buildings. 

Tombstone was a haven for lawless gunslingers, smugglers, cowboys, miners, and immigrants.

It was abandoned in 1892 when the mines dried up.

Today, Tombstone is one of the most popular ghost towns in Arizona, receiving 400,000 tourists visiting each year.

RECOMMENDED – 35 Fantastic Things To Do In Tombstone, The Ghost Town In Arizona

Another thing that made Tombstone attract tourists happened after being the filming venue showcasing the infamous gunfight at O.K. Corral in the 1993 movie  Tombstone . 

You can experience the old west architecture in Tombstone on one of the excellent guided tours .

Or hop on a horse-drawn wagon or stagecoach.

Or better, how about explore the town on this historic Tombstone Trolley bus ?

Admire the old-time saloons, restaurants, and shops lining the old town area, especially around East Allen Street, lined with boutique gift shops and eateries. 

Theatre enthusiasts should visit Schieffelin Hall. You can also attend one of the underground mining tours.

✅ Join mysterious tours to feel spooky at Boothill Cemetery . 

Check out the iconic Bird Cage Theatre on Allen Street, a raucous saloon littered with bullet holes thanks to the infamous fight, where they regularly reenact the gunfight.

If you plan to stay overnight, I highly recommend staying at Tombstone Monument Ranch.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOMBSTONE?

✅ Katie’s Cozy Cabins 🏨 – Located in historic Tombstone, this inn is 5 minutes’ walk from O.K. Corral and Big Nose Kate’s Saloon. This self check-in property features a porch with a swing with each bungalow.

There is a fully equipped kitchenette, a bathroom with a shower and a sofa bed in the living room of each accommodation at Katie’s Cozy Cabins. Find the reviews and book your details here .

If you want to return to the days of gold mining, head to Wickenburg on the Colorado River on the northern edge of the Sonoran Desert.

Established in 1863 as a mining town following the discovery of gold nearby, Wickenburg today is a small tourist town and one of the best places to experience the old Wild West culture and heritage.

Stroll the historic Pioneer Street checking out the many saloons, historic buildings, bars, restaurants, and boutique shops amidst the old preserved buildings.

One of the most popular activities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure lovers is exploring adventurous trails in Wickenburg in a UTV! Check out more about it here .

Explore the area of Hassayampa River, known for its mining history, lined with heritage buildings today surrounded by the flowing river amidst several hiking trails available for outdoor lovers.

Do you know? the Hassayampa River Preserve is known for its abundant landscapes that attract wildlife, especially unique desert animals, and is a fantastic spot for bird watching.

Located   40 miles east of Phoenix, Goldfield is a beautiful hamlet and the gateway to the Superstition Mountains in the legendary Valley of the Sun. 

Only a short drive from Mesa and Apache Junction , Goldfield is one of the best old west towns in Arizona known for its well-preserved mining history, apart from its beautiful location.

Unlike some Arizona ghost towns, you will see that Goldfield is not abandoned but is well-preserved.

The Goldfield Ghost Town & Mine is one of the best day trips from Scottsdale you can plan, as it is only about 10 miles away.

Goldfield was founded in 1893 when gold was first discovered in the Superstition Mountains after prospectors struck gold here.

At the time of the founding of Goldfield, miners discovered massive amounts of gold worth at least three million dollars leading to a sudden frenzy and building of the town in a short span.

Goldfield colourfully expanded to include many saloons, brothels, offices, a hotel, a theatre, a general store, a schoolhouse, and a brewery.

However, this mega success did not long last.

BEST TOURS TO EXPLORE IN GOLDFIELD

(Best Combo Tour) Private Half-Day Apache Trail Tour with Pickup(5/5 20+ reviews🤩) – If you are in Scottsdale, join this private guide and hike through the Superstition Mountains, taking in the unique scenery and learning about the fauna and flora of the Sonoran Desert for 4 to 5 hours, also stopping at Goldfield. Check more details here.

Apache Trail Day Trip Including Dolly Steamboat(5/5 40+ reviews🤩) – Make the most of your trip by carving out time for this day tour of the Apache Trail from Phoenix.

Travel down the trail, and stop at Tortilla Flat, the Superstition Mountains, and Goldfield Ghost Town. Check out more here .

Goldfield was one of the shortest-lived mining towns as the mines dried up, leading to people abandoning it only five years after its founding.

Note that Goldfield may not be to your liking if you are not into touristy towns, but it is worth checking out for all the many activities, historic buildings and family-friendly events.

Check out the famous museum, an old train steamer, mine tours, daily gunfight reenactments, the historic schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and old-style saloons alongside horses and wagons.

The historic town offers many old-west attractions where you can pan for gold.

Try the period costume with your kids. Try zipline to take in the bird’s-eye view of Goldfield.

WHERE TO STAY IN GOLDFIELD?

✅ Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Mesa East 🏨 – Set in Ciela Grande Mobile Home Park, Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Mesa East features views of the pool with excellent reviews.

Each accommodation at the 3-star hotel has mountain views and free WiFi. Check out details here.

Cave Creek, located in Maricopa County in the Sonoran Desert, about 30 minutes northeast of Phoenix is one of the popular weekend getaways for families exploring Phoenix.

This old mining town gets its name from a cave next to the creek upon which it was built. 

For the Old West experience, Cave Creek is the best town as you get transported back in time strolling amidst streets filled with Western architecture in the iconic Frontier Town.

You can easily spend a few hours exploring the many hiking trails, picnic areas, or horseback riding at Cave Creek Regional Park.

Go John Trail and Slater Trail are the popular trails in this park. 

WHERE TO STAY IN CAVE CREEK?

✅ Hilton Vacation Club Rancho Manana 🏨 – Adjacent to Rancho Mañana Golf Club and Tonto Bar and Grill, Hilton Vacation Club Rancho Manana is located in the desert foothills of Cave Creek.

Rare Earth Gallery, Frontier Town Wild West Show and Cave Creek Museum are within a mile. Find more details here.

With a perfect blend of history and the charms of a small town, Globe, located in the foothills between the Apache and Pinal mountains along Pinal Creek, is a unique town worth visiting.

Globe, nestling amidst the dense Tonto Forest Region, is one of the former mining towns in Gila County.

Globe has a rich and dark past of the Wild West, with the town home to robberies, Apache raids, cowboys, and outlaws.

Stroll through downtown, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since the 1980s.

Stop at the Drift Inn Saloon, one of the iconic landmarks here that were a former brothel, also rumoured to be haunted.

Take a tour of the Gila County Courthouse and Jail, also home to the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts.

Visit the Gila County Historical Museum, the Old Dominion Historic Mine Park, and the Besh-Ba-Gowa Archeological Park and Museum to learn about Globe’s history dating back over 900 years.

Among the top activities enjoyed by families include driving to Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive which takes you through stunning landscapes around the town.

✅ If you are feeling adventurous in Globe, try this popular Salt River Kayaking Tour with hundreds of five-star reviews, for a fun day out on the water with kids!

You can combine your visit to Globe by adding a stop at Payson , also in the Tonto National Forest with many campground options if you wish to explore further.

WHERE TO STAY IN GLOBE?

✅ Holiday Inn Express & Suites Globe, an IHG Hotel – Offering an outdoor pool, this hotel is located in Globe.

Free WiFi access is available. Apache Gold Casino is 5 minutes’ drive from the hotel. A free breakfast is served to guests daily. Find more details here.

MORE OLD WEST TOWNS IN CHLORIDE

One of the unique old west towns in Arizona known for its glorious mining past is Chloride, located previously on Route 66. 

Chloride became a prominent silver mining town in 1862 and was home to more than 75 mines and up to 5,000 residents. 

Do you know? Chloride is the state’s oldest inhabited ghost town home to about 400 residents. 

Thanks to the Chloride residents, who have taken great care to restore and maintain the history, you can still experience its rich past today.

Tour the abandoned mines and Native American carvings into rocks near the main town.

Check out the unique and quirky art, including metal sculptures amidst the colourful murals painted onto a huge granite wall outside town that can be accessed on a 1.3-mile-long rough dirt road by foot or a high clearance vehicle.

Created in 1966 by a prospector named Roy Purcell, this colourful canvas across 2,000 square feet of cliffside granite is a masterpiece.

Watch all sorts of quirky characters ranging from a giant red snake to a fertility goddess and a pair of ostriches.

✅ Grand Canyon West Hotel Sheps Miners Inn 🏨 – Located in Chloride, Grand Canyon West Hotel Sheps Miners Inn features barbecue facilities.

With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel has a garden and a bar. The accommodation provides karaoke and room service. Check out more details here .

Also located in   Cochise County, Douglas located in that Sulpher Springs Valley is one of the old west towns in Arizona with a dark and prosperous mining history.

Lying close to Mexico, Douglas was infamous for being home to outlaws, smugglers, burglars, and cowboys that carried out illegal activities across the borders.

The Douglas area was first settled by the Spanish in the 18th century, and gets its name from a prospector Douglas, and was initially an American  smelter  town, to treat the copper ores of nearby Bisbee.

Today, you can visit the mines and historic locations including the infamous Cowboys Home Saloon, and other buildings, including heritage hotels, cafes, and souvenir shops in the old west area in Douglas.

WHERE TO STAY IN DOUGLAS?

✅ The Gadsden Hotel – Featuring a bar, The Gadsden Hotel is located in Douglas. With a terrace, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.

The accommodation provides room service, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage for guests. Find more details here.

Another 1880s boom town in southern Arizona, Benson is regarded as a living museum that showcases the history of the American Southwest.

Known for its railroad history, and a rustic filming location for many old-west and ghost-themed locations, Benson is worth a quick stop for including one of the offbeat old-west towns in Arizona.

Most people pass through Benson while accessing Kartchner Caverns, the magnificent huge underground caves, a popular tourist attraction. 

Still, I recommend also checking out Benson for a day as it has many things to offer.

Stop at the Benson Visitor Center for a quick introduction to the town, check out the famous Holy Trinity Monastery,.

Walk downtown to admire the historic buildings and taste delicious beer and food at one of the many restaurants and bars there.

WHERE TO STAY IN BENSON?

✅ Comfort Inn Benson near Kartchner Caverns – Just 10 miles from Katchner Caverns State Park, this Benson hotel offers a hot continental breakfast.

Guests can take a swim in the outdoor pool. Each Southwestern-themed room includes free Wi-Fi. Check out more details here.

Rawhide may not be your typical old west town in Arizona, but it comes very close. 

Rawhide is a Western-themed amusement park located south of Phoenix and is one of the fun getaways for kids to experience all things of the wild west.

There are many activities and games available, ranging from live gun shows, and gold panning, to riding horses and mechanical bulls.

Check out the iconic Rawhide Steakhouse and Saloon known for its delicious steaks, barbeque, and prime rib that go best with plenty of drinks at the saloon.

Watch old-time gunfights by The Six Gun Theatre and Rawhide Rough Riders.

To watch plenty of Western performances, head to the Spirit of the West Theatre. 

OLD WEST TOWNS IN ARIZONA MAP

Chief Editor and CEO

Veronica Samuels is a travel content creator from San Francisco, but calls Arizona her home as she moved to the Grand Canyon state after a series of trips made her fall in love with Arizona inspiring her to move.

She created Wander In Arizona to share first-hand information about traveling to the many fantastic cities, trails, national parks, monuments and more as she continues to explore.

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Wild Wild West: 13 Old West Towns To Visit In Nevada

Embark on a journey to explore some of the wealthiest communities of the past with these historical old west towns of Nevada.

Read update

Can't Get Enough of the Wild West?

• Nevada is home to well-preserved old west towns from the 19th century, offering visitors a chance to experience the authentic past.
• The towns mentioned in the article, such as Carson City and Winnemucca, have fascinating histories and attractions that showcase their wild west heritage.
• Outdoor recreation opportunities, historic buildings, museums, and mine tours are just some of the activities visitors can enjoy in these Nevada mining towns.

The state of Nevada is home to some of the most well-preserved and captivating oldest-founded towns from the 19th century, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the past. From the iconic Virginia City to the lesser-known treasures of Eureka and Tonopah, these towns are brimming with history, culture, and adventure. This article lists some of the best old west towns to visit in Nevada, highlighting their fascinating stories, must-see attractions, and hidden gems. So saddle up, put on a Stetson, and get ready to explore the incredible Nevada mining towns.

UPDATE: 2023/10/20 01:49 EST BY NICOLE HANSEN

Nearly every town in Nevada has ties to the Old West. This list has been updated with even more Nevada towns with history tied to the lawless days of the Wild West. With unique artifacts, colorful history, and one-of-a-kind buildings, these towns are well worth exploring. Get ready to dust off those boots!

10 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Nevada You Should Visit

13 carson city.

The capital of Nevada, Carson City, has a number of unique activities for visitors today to enjoy. Before it became the hub of this western state, however, Carson City was a classic Wild West town. In fact, Carson City was named one of the Top True Western towns in Nevada back in 2020.

Carson City is one of several towns in Nevada where the west is still wild, with the Nevada State Museum offering mine tours to help visitors get a feel for work life in the Old West. Additionally, the classic Bank Saloon, built in 1899, is the longest continuously operating bar in Carson City and serves a variety of drinks that hail from its 130-year-old history.

• Things to Do in Carson City: Nevada State Museum, Bank Saloon, Vasefinder Museum , Hiking Trails

10 Most Beautiful Towns That Are Easily Visited From Carson City

12 winnemucca.

The only incorporated city in Humboldt County, Winnemucca, has done an exceptional job preserving the artifacts of the Nevada Wild West. The free-to-visit Humboldt Museum , in particular, holds the artifacts found in the Lovelock Caves, and the museum itself is a historic church that was converted into a museum.

Winnemucca also has a Visitors Center , which has exhibits highlighting the different industries that once fueled the town. The center also explores the pioneer history of the area, as well as the Native Americans that pre-dated the western wild west feel of this small Nevada town.

• Things to Do in Winnemucca: Humboldt Museum, Winnemucca Visitors Center, Winnemucca Sand Dunes, Winnemucca Canyon Trail, Water Canyon

11 Lovelock

Lovelock is a bit of a "blink-and-you'll-miss-it" sort of town, usually relegated to a simple pit stop on an epic cross-country I-80 road trip . For those who take the time to look around, however, the feel and taste of the Old West will quickly become apparent.

Lovelock landed on the map when 11 duck decoys were found in a nearby cave . The earliest of such artifacts of their kind, these decoys are a nod to the simple hunting and farming life that once dominated the area. Today, a number of the local restaurants continue to follow this old-west theme, keeping the town's history alive and well.

• Things to Do in Lovelock: Marzen House Museum , Lovelock Cave Backcountry Byway , Rye Patch State Recreation Area

10 Virginia City

Located in Storey County, Virginia City is a historic town in Nevada with plenty to do and see (it's also one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the west, founded in the 1850s as a silver mining town during the Comstock Lode boom). The town offers visitors a chance to explore its incredible architecture and museums, including the historic district, which features over 60 buildings and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The notable museums in the city include the Virginia & Truckee Railroad Museum and Comstock History Center.

One of the most popular attractions in Virginia City is the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, a historic train that runs between Virginia City and Carson City. Other popular activities in the town include visiting the historic saloons, the annual Camel Races, and the mine tours.

• Things to Do in Virginia City: Virginia & Truckee Railroad , Tour Historic Saloons, Watch a Camel Race, Take a Mine Tour

Situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains , Genoa is a town founded in 1851 and is considered the oldest permanent settlement in Nevada. Today, it's a popular destination for outdoor recreation and sightseeing.

One of the most notable attractions in Genoa is the Mormon Station State Historical Park, and several historic buildings, including the Genoa Courthouse Museum, Dake House, and the Genoa Bar, which has been in operation since 1853 and is considered to be the oldest "thirst parlor" in Nevada. Besides its historic attractions, the town is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including biking, hiking, fishing, boating, camping, and other activities in nearby Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

• Things to Do in Genoa: Mormon Station State Historical Park, Genoa Courthouse Museum , Dake House, Genoa Bar, Day trip to Lake Tahoe

Founded in the 1860s, Austin is a small town located in Lander County, Nevada. The town is a popular destination for visitors for its historic buildings and architecture, including the International Hotel, which was built in 1863 and is now a museum showcasing the history of the Old West.

Other notable attractions in the town include Stokes Castle, a four-story stone tower built in 1897. In addition to its historic attractions, the town is a great destination for outdoor recreation, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and camping near the Reese River.

• Things to Do in Austin: Stokes Castle, Hiking, Biking, Fishing, Boating, International Hotel Museum

14 Vacation Spots In Nevada That Won’t Break The Bank

Eureka is a small town in Eureka County, Nevada, founded in 1864 as a silver mining town during the Comstock Lode boom. The town is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the Old West. The notable attractions of the town are its historic buildings, including the Eureka Opera House, which was built in 1880 and is now used for community events and performances.

Visitors to Eureka can also explore the Eureka Sentinel Museum, which exhibits the history of the town and its mining industry. The museum also includes exhibits on the local Native American tribes, the early pioneers, and the town's mining and railroad history. In addition to its historical attractions, Eureka is a great destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and camping.

• Things to Do in Eureka: Eureka Opera House , Eureka Sentinel Museum , Hiking, Biking, Camping

Founded in 1900, Tonopah is a small town in Nye County, Nevada, known as the "Queen of the Silver Camps." Today, the town is a popular destination for visitors to have a glimpse of the history of the Old West. The town has been carefully preserved, with many of its historic buildings still in good condition, including the Mizpah Hotel, which was built in 1907 and is now a boutique hotel and casino.

Visitors to Tonopah can also explore the town's Historic Mining Park, a museum, and an outdoor exhibit showcasing the town's mining history. Besides its historic attractions, the town also features a variety of recreational activities, hiking, biking, camping, and boating and fishing on nearby Walker Lake.

• Things to Do in Tonopah: Tour Historic Buildings, Mizpah Hotel, Historic Mining Park, Central Nevada Museum , Hiking, Biking, Camping, Boating, Fishing

5 Goldfield

Goldfield is a small living ghost town in Esmeralda County, Nevada , and was known as the "Greatest Gold Camp in the World" during the Comstock Lode boom. The town is now a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the history of the Old West, featuring carefully preserved historic buildings, including the Goldfield Hotel, built in 1908. It is now a museum and tourist attraction.

As one of the top Old West towns in Nevada to visit, travelers can also explore the Goldfield Historical Society Museum, which exhibits the history of the town and its mining industry. Besides its various attractions, the town is a great destination for outdoor recreation, with surrounding mountains offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping.

• Things to Do in Goldfield: Goldfield Hotel , Goldfield Historical Society Museum , Hiking, Biking, Camping

13 Beautiful Towns In Nevada You Need To See For Yourself

4 silver city.

Silver City is one of the best Old West towns in Nevada to visit; it's a fascinating ghost town in Lyon County, Nevada, near the city of Dayton. Founded in 1859 as a silver mining town, it was once one of the largest and richest towns in the state. Today, the town is a popular destination for visitors with well-preserved historic buildings, including the St. Mary's Art Center, built in 1876 as a Catholic Church. It is now an arts center and gallery.

Visitors to Silver City can also explore the nearby Silver City Cemetery, a cemetery offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the locals during the late 19th century. In addition to its historic attractions, the town is a great destination for outdoor recreation, with nearby Carson River providing opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

• Things to Do in Silver City: Silver City Cemetery, St. Mary's Art Center, Tour Downtown, Fishing, Kayaking, Hiking

Elko is a city-like town in northeastern Nevada, near the Ruby Mountains and the Humboldt River. It is the largest town in the region and serves as a commercial, cultural, and transportation hub for the surrounding area. Today, the town is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, featuring several galleries, theaters, and museums, celebrating the region's cowboy and ranching heritage.

Elko is also home to several historic sites, including the Sherman Station Visitor's Center and the Northeastern Nevada Museum, which features exhibits on the region's natural and cultural history. Besides all the various attractions, the town is a great destination for outdoor recreation, with the nearby Ruby Mountains offering hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities.

• Things to Do in Elko: Sherman Station Visitors Center , Northeastern Nevada Museum , Hiking, Camping, Skiing, Western Folklife Center

Pioche is a historic town in eastern Nevada, near the Nevada-Utah border, a popular tourist destination with carefully preserved historic buildings, including the Lincoln County Courthouse, which was built in 1872 and now houses a museum offering a glimpse into the town's rich history.

Visitors to the town can also explore the nearby Million Dollar Courthouse, which served as the county courthouse until 1972, featuring a museum showcasing the town's mining and law enforcement history. In addition to its historical attractions, Pioche is a great destination for outdoor recreation, with nearby Echo Canyon Reservoir providing opportunities for fishing and boating.

• Things to Do in Pioche: Tour Downtown, Million Dollar Courthouse, Fishing, Boating, Hiking

Nelson Gold Mines: Discover The Oldest & Richest Southern Nevada Wild West Just Out Las Vegas

Situated in the Toiyabe Range, Belmont is among the best towns to visit in Nevada , known for its well-preserved historic buildings offering visitors a glimpse into the history of the Old West. Some of the notable attractions in the town include the Belmont Courthouse, built in 1876 and now a museum, and Belmont Mill, once a major center for silver processing in the region, telling stories about the town's mining history. In addition to its historical attractions, Belmont is a great destination for outdoor recreation, offering hiking and camping opportunities.

• Things to Do in Belmont: Tour Historic Buildings, Belmont Courthouse, Belmont Mill, Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Biking

Things to Do in Zelenogradsk, Russia - Zelenogradsk Attractions

Things to do in zelenogradsk.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Zelenogradsk Promenade

2. FiloSoviya

3. Barakholshhik

4. Pamyatnik Zelenogradskim Kotam

5. Water Tower

6. Tortilin Pond

7. Fringilla

8. Museum of Skulls and Skeletons

9. Murarium Art-Collection of Cats

10. Kurortny Ave.

11. Vintage Toys Private Collection

12. Zelenogradskiy Local Lore Museum

13. Museum "Domik Angelov"

14. Church of St. Andrew

15. Zelenograd Puppet Museum

16. Queen Louise Square

17. Transfiguration Cathedral

18. Well-Room Queen Luiza

19. Resort Fashion Museum

20. Ferris wheel "Eye of the Baltic"

21. Monument to Adam Mickiewicz

22. Art Museum of Garbage Kalininrad MU MU KA

23. Sculpture Kurortnitsa

24. Museum of Architecture and History of Koenigsberg

25. Monument to Lenin

26. Square "Kotofeinya"

27. MAKRO Mikro MIR

28. Ekoploshhhadka Zeleny KOT

29. Kurkhaus Krants

30. Hotel and Entertainment Centre PARADOX

What travelers are saying.

• Zelenogradsk Promenade
• Murarium Art-Collection of Cats
• Pamyatnik Zelenogradskim Kotam
• Tortilin Pond
• Museum of Skulls and Skeletons
• Well-Room Queen Luiza
• Ekoploshhhadka Zeleny KOT

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Moscow or St. Petersburg – Which Russian City Is Better?

June 4, 2017 by Bino 7 Comments

As two of the most popular tourist destinations in Russia, most travelers who visit the world’s largest countries end up making their way to both Moscow and St. Petersburg. Both cities have a wealth of attractions, including palaces, churches as well as exciting culinary and nightlife scenes. But what if you find yourself able to visit only one – should you visit Moscow or St. Petersburg? Alternatively, if you have time for both, in which city do you spend more days?

During a recent trip to Russia, I had a similar problem deciding. My trip allowed me to visit both cities but I was not sure in the beginning whether I should stay for more days in Moscow or St. Petersburg. As such, the comparison I am going to do here applies both to those trying to allocate the number of days between the two cities as well as those who have enough time to visit only one,

As Russia’s capital, the city serves as the financial center of the country. The city is highly cosmopolitan. You will find a large number of people from all around Russia here and even people from the former Soviet republics. Moscow also has a noticeable expat population and you’ll find various types of eateries here from Japanese to French as well as Italian – the latter which local chefs do very well.

a view of the kremlin over the moskva river

While the city sits firmly in Europe and plenty of the surrounding architecture are certainly typical of the continent, Moscow can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming (and clogged), not to mention polluted due to the smoke coming out of the cars. There are plenty of highways circling the city to reach areas outside the central core. Moscow is definitely one of the great cities of the world.

• Moscow is one of the world’s largest cities and you won’t get bored here. There are plenty of districts from which to explore. Personally, I love the area surrounding the Patriarshy Ponds filled with plenty of charming shops and hip restaurants.
• If you decide to spend more time or devote your entire time in Russia to Moscow, you’ll be pleased that there are plenty of day trip and excursion opportunities from here. The towns around the golden ring, i.e. Suzdal, Vladimir, Sergiev Posad, etc are either a car or train ride away and can easily keep you preoccupied for a couple of days.
• The city is not as touristy as St. Petersburg and that’s a good thing. I visited the Kolomenskoye Park for example, which houses a UNESCO World Heritage Site, without encountering the tour groups I typically see in St. Petersburg.
• If the hipster culture interests you, you’ll be pleased that you have plenty of options in Moscow. The most prominent is Flacon , a short walk from Dmitrovskaya station.

the izmailovo kremlin – one of the places you should include in your moscow trip

• Overall, I found Moscow to be more expensive – both in terms of hotels, food as well as transport. The Russian capital is frequently ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world. All it takes is a visit to the iconic GUM shopping mall to see the astronomical prices.
• If you are visiting Moscow independently, you might find getting by via public transport a bit confusing. When taking the metro in particular, the signs are all in Cyrillic so it’s helpful to learn a bit of the alphabet in order to familiarize yourself with the names of the places. If any consolation, some of the stations are among the most beautiful subway stations in the world.
• While both Moscow and St. Petersburg have less charming Soviet style buildings, you’ll find more in Moscow – being once the capital of the Soviet Union.
• There are no shortage of sights in Moscow but many of them are scattered all around the city. Interesting places in the outskirts include: Kolomenskoye Park, the Izmailovo Kremlin, Novodevichy Convent and Flaocon. But these are at different directions from the center.

Where I stayed in Moscow: I found the InterContinental Tverskaya Moscow to be conveniently located. It’s within a short walk from at least 3 metro stations while the Red Square is just down the road. Service overall is fantastic compared to other Moscow hotels and vacation rental options and there are good deals to be had during weekends. You can also compare the best prices for hotels in Moscow HERE .

St. Petersburg

view of st. petersburg from st. isaac’s cathedral

Established some 300 years ago by Peter the Great, St. Petersburg probably ranks among the most visually appealing cities in Europe. Almost any building in the central core for example can be considered as a tourist attraction. The city is one of the great touristic cities in Europe – hosting plenty of daytrippers from cruises around the Baltics or Scandinavia.

inside the church of spilled blood in st. petersburg

• The city is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with plenty of classical and baroque architecture. Peter the Great spared no expense in hiring the best architects from Western Europe when he established the city.
• St. Petersburg is relatively cheaper than Moscow. Uber rides between most points within the city center don’t go beyond $5.
• Many of the tourist attractions are concentrated within the center so it’s fairly easy to walk from one attraction to another or take a short cab ride.
• The city derives a good part of its income in tourism and you’ll find plenty of signs in English and even in other foreign languages. While I was there, I saw many restaurants and shops displaying signs in Chinese.

outside the hermitage

• While you will find daytrip opportunities in the form of Petrograd as well as Catherine Palace, they’re significantly less than if you choose to base yourself in Moscow.
• St. Petersburg can get quite touristy and you could find the crowds a bit maddening and you might even need to queue for a long time to enter. It’s possible to purchase tickets for some attractions online but others are available only on the spot.

Where I stayed in St. Petersburg: I was pleasantly surprised by the Crowne Plaza Ligovsky . Some of the rooms are styled like a palace with engravings on the walls. Fresh juices were served during breakfast – something relatively unheard of for a 4 star hotel. Best of all, it is located just across Galeria, one of the biggest shopping malls in St. Petersburg. You can also check out some other hotels and compare the best prices HERE for St. Petersburg.

Where to go if you could choose only one city?

Both Moscow and St. Petersburg are great in their own ways. However, if your stay in Russia is very short and barring any other limitations, I would suggest going to St. Petersburg instead. My reasons are as follows: St. Petersburg is quicker to navigate. You can finish most of the main attractions within a couple of days by focusing on the city center and perhaps visiting the area north of the river. In contrast, Moscow is quite spread out. The city is so much more than the Kremlin and Red Square that it will take you more days to really see the city. It would be better to visit Moscow next time when you have more days to spare.

If you have enough time for both cities, where should you allocate more days?

On the other hand, if you have more time to visit both cities and are deciding where to allocate more days – I would suggest allocating more days for Moscow. Other than the extra time required to see the city outskirts, you could also use the extra days to arrange excursions to the cities in the Golden Ring. Also check out my suggested one week itinerary for Russia . Alternatively, you can also consider venturing to Russia’s third capital, the multicultural city of Kazan if you have time.

Tips for Russia

• Know the Cyrillic alphabet  – the local alphabet is not difficult and is actually quite fun to learn especially after you learn how many words sound the same in both Russian and English! This will help greatly when you navigate metro stations and read shop signs.
• Travel insurance – If you are going for a simple eating trip near your home country, travel insurance may not be needed but for Russia which is quite far and rather exotic, I decided to purchase one. I bought from  this provider which has a higher than average medical coverage and compensates you for things like accidents and lost items at a relatively cheap price.
• Buy metro cards – Getting the metro cards in cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg will save you lots when it comes to transport cost and is far more convenient than buying tickets on the spot. For places that are not covered by the metro, you can consider ride-sharing apps like UBER.

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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August 31, 2018 at 7:19 am

I’m researching whether to choose Moscow or St. Petersburg and this helped me decide. St. Petersburg it is. Thank you!

January 5, 2019 at 6:53 am

I have been to moscow and lived there for a while i only find out that in moscow people are so aggressive and not friendly at all. If you don’t kniw the Russian language then it means you would be in problems. People don’t like to help others. if you can’t find any address don’t ask any one they will not answer you.time is money for them they don’t waist time for you.

May 24, 2019 at 12:03 pm

That’s surprising! Me and a friend spent a week in Moscow without knowing a drop of Russian and everyone was so friendly and helpful to us. Sorry to hear your experience wasn’t too good 🙁

November 7, 2019 at 3:10 pm

Really??? You were extremely unlucky…

February 1, 2019 at 8:46 am

Im 17yrs old and i am being offered full scholarship in senior high in russia. I am told to select moscow or st petersburg. Thank you for this, i might pick st petersburg.

November 5, 2019 at 2:08 am

Thank you for all the helpful information. There are a lot of blogs comparing the two cities, but your info is really concise and practical.

I will plan to visit both but spend a bit more time in Moscow (if I can afford the hotels!!).

What time of year were you in Russia? I would like to go during the White Nights Festival in St. Petersburg.

November 7, 2019 at 10:37 am

Hi, I was there in May.

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Moscow/Zelenograd and New Moscow

• 1.1 By plane
• 1.2 By train
• 4 Events, Festivals

Zelenograd and New Moscow are two large parts of Moscow city, that lie (often far) outside consolidated residential zone of the city, which lies within and just beyond the MKAD (Moscow Ring Road).

Zelenograd was added in Moscow in 1968 as one of the leading scientific centers. New Moscow was added to Moscow in 2012, forming Novomoskovky and Troitskiy Administrativniy Okrugs with plans of new vast expansion. New Moscow territory is yet to change according to its new city status. Even though suburbial kind construction intensifies in Novomoskovsky Administrativniy Okrug, Troitskiy Administrativniy Okrug still mostly has a rural feel.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Vnukovo and Ostafyevo airports are situated in New Moscow proper, though from Ostafyevo airport you still have to go through the "old" Moscow. It is possible to get from Sheremetyevo to Zelenograd without going to the old city - you have to change to 400 minibus on Leningrad highway or on local train on Planernaya. From Domodedovo airport you'll have to go through the old city anyway (the route through Domodedovo and Podolsk will take more time).

By train [ edit ]

Local trains connect Zelenograd with Leningrad Train Station, Tver, Klin and Konakovo. Local trains from Kiev Train Station pass through northern part of New Moscow between Novoperedelkino and Krekshino. To go to Zosimova Pustyn you may want to go all the way to Bekasovo, but trains there are infrequent. It is possible to get to New Moscow through Podolsk, but you'll have to change to bus there.

By bus [ edit ]

Most frequent bus to Zelenograd is bus 400 from Rechnoi Vokzal. It has special pricing. Buses are primary way of public transport to get to New Moscow, new buses are often added. Most buses start from Yugo-Zapadnaya and Tepliy Stan metroes, and Podolsk train station. Troitsk serves as a bus hub.

By car [ edit ]

Zelenograd is accessible by M10 highway. Major highways in New Moscow are M3, A101, Warsaw highway Podolsk - Kresty (joining with A101), first "Beton Ring" A107 and Borovsk highway Peredelkino - Vnukovo - to join with M3. M10 and A101 are often highly congested, M3 may be less prone to it, except Moscow vicinity, and crossing with A107, A107 is congested near M3 crossing, which is northwest of New Moscow; Warsaw highway is congested in Podolsk, and you'll have to pass congested M2 to get there from MKAD.

Connect [ edit ]

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