Few American destinations still exist that capture a bygone era quite like Wickenburg – from its quintessentially Western historic downtown and dude ranches to its uncanny ability to pay tribute to the Old West’s glory days without being hokey, the town has hit on the formula for successfully merging the past with the present in a way that awakens the cowboy in everyone.

Those seeking an authentic Old West experience can saddle up for horseback rides at one of four distinct guest ranches, take in a performance at the state-of-the-art Del. E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, enjoy a day of fine art at the Desert Caballeros History Museum (a Wickenburg institution for more than half a century) or take a historic walking tour through Wickenburg’s recently restored downtown area. Cowboy culture is also alive and well in Wickenburg through a series of well-attended annual events, from February’s Gold Rush Days to fall’s Fiesta de Septiembre and December’s notable Cowboy Christmas Poetry Gathering.

Those seeking a little modern-day merrymaking can spend the day at Los Caballeros Golf Club, listed among Golf magazine’s “Top 75 Golf Courses in the Country,” or take an off-road Jeep tour through Wickenburg’s beautiful Box Canyon country, while visitors ready to get their blood pumping can hike up Vulture Peak, home of one of the richest gold mines in Arizona history, or explore The Nature Conservancy’s Hassayampa River Preserve, which boasts more than 230 species of birds.

When it comes time to kick up the spurs, kick back at an award-winning guest ranch or one of numerous historic bed and breakfasts that dot Wickenburg’s expansive desert landscape, or relax with a cold cocktail amidst the shadows of Vulture Peak.
From sun up to sun down, there’s something in Wickenburg to awaken the cowboy in everyone. Take a day trip or spend a week, because there’s no better place to truly experience the historic wonder of the West.