Camp Verde

1. Verde Valley Archaeology Center

The Verde Valley Archaeology Center is a wonderful place to learn about the many archaeological sites of the area on your Arizona weekend getaway. The center preserves, collects, and curates various sites and artifacts while developing a partnership with the community it serves.

During your visit there you’ll be able to get a deeper understanding of American Indian history and the science of archaeology.

Some of the exhibits you’ll come across include the Honanki Collection which has several examples of prehistoric basketry and weaving textiles and the Prehistoric Life in Camp Verde exhibit which is based on excavations which have been done around town.

460 Finnie Flat Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, Phone: 928-567-0066

2. Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Experience Africa in the heart of Arizona at the Out of Africa Wildlife Park. It is sure to be one of the best wildlife parks or zoos that you’ve ever been to, as you see lovingly cared for animals in their natural habitats.

You can walk or drive through their Wildlife Preserve, which resembles the free-roaming Serengeti, as lions, cheetahs, and other exotic animals roam the 100 acres of valleys and hills.

To learn more about the animals that call the park home, be sure to go on the African Bush Safari - a 40-minute tour that is narrated by expert guides.

Other things you will be able to experience include getting up close with some slithery serpents at the Giant Snake Show, watching the grizzly bears play in the Wonders of Wildlife show, or watching the lions devour 800 pounds of meat on the mesmerizing Predator Feed.

3505 W State Route 260, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, Phone: 928-567-2840

3. Fort Verde State Historic Park

Fort Verde State Historic Park is one of Arizona’s best-preserved examples of an Indian Wars period fort. The park was a base for U.S. Army scouts and soldiers from the 1870s through the 1880s, during the Central Arizona Indian Wars.

During your visit there you will be able to see four surviving buildings, which are not only important because of its historical significance but due to its unique architectural aspect as well. You’ll be able to experience and learn about what life was like on the frontier through one of the many living history tours and demonstrations on your trip.

125 E Hollamon St, Camp Verde, AZ 86322

4. Montezuma Castle National Monument

One of the nation’s first National Monuments as declared by President Theodore Roosevelt, the Montezuma Castle National Monument is one of the best-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings which you’ll come across in the entire United States. Initially, visitors were allowed to go into the dwelling and see some of the many original artifacts which were left there. Due to the extensive damage the cultural landmark endured, that is no longer allowed, but you are able to gaze through the windows and get an idea of the past and the people who lived there. You’ll have to climb a series of ladders to get to the side of the limestone cliffs, but the entire excursion will be a highly memorable one.

Montezuma Castle National Monument, Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ

5. Arizona Offroad Tours

Go on an exciting ATV adventure through the state’s rugged desert and mountain terrain with Arizona Offroad Tours (AOT). It’s a wonderful place to spend quality time with your family and friends and is sure to be memorable and full of laughs.

The unforgettable experience will take you through Verde Valley and Sedona.

In addition to riding your very own fully-automatic ATV with safe and experienced professionals, you’ll also learn a lot about the surrounding area from your informed guide.

All visitors will be provided with light snacks, plenty of water, helmet, goggles, and your very own AOT bandana.

Phone: 928-451-1777

6. Hauser and Hauser Farm

Hauser and Hauser Farm can be found in the Verde Valley in land that was once used by the Sinagua Indians. The Hauser family has been farming for over six generations, creating an amazing rural atmosphere that visitors can enjoy. Younger visitors love exploring the farm and seeing the tractors and other farming equipment. Opportunities to learn about their methods, irrigation systems, and to see how the farm is managed on a day-to-day basis. You’ll be able to leave with some of their delicious sweet corn, each grown with care and perfection - you’ll even be able to walk away with some great corn-related tips and recipes. Be sure to visit in time for their renowned annual corn festival!

652 Montezuma Castle Hwy, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, Phone: 928-567-2142

7. Fossil Creek Wilderness

Fossil Creek Wilderness, which spans over 11,000 acres, is a wilderness area which can be found within Arizona’s Coconino National Forest. The springs can be found at the edge of the Colorado Plateau right at the bottom of a canyon. Hiking through the area will bring you across several bodies of water, which work together to support one of the most diverse ecosystems in the state. You might be able to see a various range of flora and fauna, including wildlife such as coyotes, elk, deer, racoons, fox, mountain lions, black bears, and skunks. Ornithology aficionados will find Fossil Creek Wilderness to be home to over a hundred species of birds, many of which are native to the area.

(FR 708), Fossil Creek Rd, Strawberry, AZ 85544, Phone: 928-203-2900, (website link)

8. Cliff Castle Casino

The Cliff Castle Casino has been around for nearly twenty years and can be found an hour away from Phoenix. They have been consecutively voted as Arizona’s ‘Number 1 Casino’ for several years, and rightly so as people from all over head there to play on popular slot machines and live table games. What makes it different from other casinos is that Cliff Castle is a fun place for the entire family; they house an arcade, a 20-lane bowling center, live entertainment, a gift shop, and a supervised child care center for little ones. Additionally, there are several accommodation options for guests who decide to stay overnight or for a few days, as well as dining establishments such as Johnny Rockets or the Mountain Springs Buffet.

555 W Middle Verde Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, Phone: 928-567-7999

9. Sweet Pea Vintage Antiques

Purveyors of vintage and antique finery, Sweet Pea Vintage Antiques is the place to go to when you’re looking for something unique for yourself or your friends. The shop spans over 10,000 square feet and has an array of new and used treasures, from home decor and furniture to jewelry and electronics. The items vary weekly as there are several vendors who call Sweet Pea home - you’ll find at least 40 vendors there at any given time. With over ten years of experience in the vintage and antique industry in Camp Verde, Sweet Pea will be sure to have something you’ll cherish forever.

437 AZ-260, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, Phone: 928-567-6555