If you're looking for Southwestern charm and a dose of Old West history, I definitely suggest spending some time in Florence. It’s one of Arizona’s oldest towns, and every time I visit, I find something new—whether it’s a quiet desert trail, a fascinating museum, or a hidden gem downtown. You’ll feel that small-town warmth and rugged frontier spirit the moment you arrive.
Florence, AZ Highlights:
- For Families: Visit McFarland State Historic Park – I stopped by with family and we all loved learning about Florence’s past. You’ll walk through a restored courthouse and get a real feel for frontier life—it’s a fun, low-key way to connect with Arizona history.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Explore the trails at Poston Butte – I hiked up here just before sunset, and the views were amazing. You’ll also find the tomb of Charles D. Poston at the top—it’s a short hike with a lot of reward.
- For Kids: Cool off at Heritage Park Splash Pad – If you’re here with little ones, this is a lifesaver in the summer. I’ve seen families spending whole afternoons here—water features, playgrounds, and shady spots to relax.
- For an Adventure: Go off-roading or ATV riding in the surrounding desert – I tried this once and it was a blast. If you’re into adventure, you’ll love zipping through the Sonoran desert trails with cacti and red rock all around you.
- For Shoppers: Browse antiques and local shops downtown – I found some great handmade goods and vintage treasures walking through the historic district. You’ll enjoy the slow pace and the friendly shopkeepers—don’t miss the old storefronts.
Best Time to Visit Florence, AZ
From experience, I always recommend visiting between October and April. You’ll get warm but comfortable weather—perfect for hiking, walking tours, and outdoor events. Summers can be scorching, so I stick to indoor museums or splash pads if I go then.
How to Get to Florence, AZ
- By Car: I usually drive in on State Route 79—it’s about an hour from Phoenix or Tucson and makes for a scenic desert drive. If you’re coming from either city, you’ll find it an easy day trip or weekend stop.
- By Air: I fly into either Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) or Tucson International (TUS), then rent a car. It’s around an hour’s drive from either, and having a car really helps you explore all the nearby trails and attractions.
- By Bus: I wouldn’t rely on the bus service here—it’s limited. If you want to explore freely, I’d recommend driving yourself or renting a car.
Where to Stay in Florence, AZ
- Blue Mist Motel – I stayed here once on a budget trip and it did the job—simple, clean, and had that classic roadside motel vibe. You’ll find it easy if you just want somewhere to sleep after a day out exploring.
- GreenTree Inn & Suites Florence – I’ve recommended this to friends who wanted a few more comforts. You’ll enjoy the pool, hot tub, and its location close to town—you can head out to dinner or shops in minutes.
- RV Resorts & Campgrounds – If you’re road-tripping, this is the way to go. I’ve camped under the stars here and loved waking up to the desert breeze. You’ll find some great RV parks with amenities nearby.
Best Things to Do in Florence, AZ
First: For History Enthusiasts: Pinal County Historical Museum
Explore fascinating local artifacts and learn about unusual Arizona history on your trip.
Second: For Adventure Lovers: St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery
Admire peaceful gardens and look at stunning Byzantine architecture on a romantic visit.
Third: For Thrill Seekers: Arizona ATV Adventures
Ride through scenic desert trails and enjoy exciting off-road sights with the family.
Fourth: For Wine Connoisseurs: The Windmill Winery
Savor handcrafted wines and admire rustic charm during a romantic or retirement getaway.
Fifth: For Golfers: Poston Butte Golf Club
Play scenic desert fairways and enjoy an affordable, relaxing weekend golf trip.
Sixth: For Film History Fans: Tom Mix Memorial
Visit a historic roadside tribute and learn about this unusual Western film legend.
Seventh: For Equipment Renters: AZ Rentals and More, LLC
Drive ATVs through rugged terrain and enjoy a cheap, exciting desert adventure.
Eight: For Cultural Foodies: Mount Athos Restaurant & Cafe
Savor Greek specialties and enjoy a casual, affordable meal with the kids.
More Places to Eat in Florence, AZ
- LB Cantina – If you’re in the mood for some great tacos and margaritas, LB Cantina is the place to go. It’s a longtime local favorite for a reason! The casual setting makes it perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
- Ada E. Red's – For a hearty breakfast or burger, Ada E. Red's is a cozy spot with a nostalgic diner vibe. I love how welcoming the atmosphere is, and their food is always just what I need to start the day right.
If you are interested in local events:
- Country Thunder Arizona (April) – If you love country music, you’ll enjoy Country Thunder Arizona. The festival has big country acts, a great festival atmosphere, and even camping! I always have a blast at this one.
- Historic Florence Home Tour (February) – The Historic Florence Home Tour is one of my favorite events. It’s a self-guided tour through the town’s historic homes and buildings, offering a deep dive into the area’s rich history. I love exploring the architecture and learning about Florence’s past.
- Junior Parada Rodeo (November) – If you're in town in November, the Junior Parada Rodeo is a must-see. It’s a long-running youth rodeo event, and the atmosphere really celebrates Arizona's cowboy heritage. I’ve gone a few times, and it’s always such a fun experience.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–90 Minutes of Florence, AZ:
- Casa Grande Ruins National Monument (30 min) – A visit to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is perfect if you’re interested in history. You can explore the well-preserved Hohokam ruins and learn all about pre-Columbian life in the area. It’s a fascinating stop!
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park (45 min) – For outdoor enthusiasts, San Tan Mountain Regional Park is a great spot for hiking, biking, or a picnic. The desert views and saguaro-dotted trails are beautiful, and it’s a perfect place for a day out in nature.
- Queen Creek Olive Mill (40 min) – If you’re a foodie like me, Queen Creek Olive Mill is a must. You can tour a working olive grove, enjoy tastings, and do some shopping. I always find unique products to bring home!
- Coolidge (20 min) – Coolidge is a quiet, charming town with a rich regional history. Whether you’re exploring local history sites or just enjoying the laid-back vibe, it’s a great place for a peaceful day trip.
- Apache Junction & Superstition Mountains (60 min) – Apache Junction and the Superstition Mountains offer amazing hiking trails and scenic drives. The legendary desert backdrops make it a stunning area to explore, especially if you love the outdoors!
- Old Tucson Studios (90 min) – If you're in the mood for something fun, Old Tucson Studios is an awesome stop. It’s a Wild West movie set turned family-friendly theme park in Tucson, and I’ve always had a great time there!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: What is Florence, Arizona known for?
- Florence, Arizona is an old Western town with a rich history. It has 25 historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and over 140 well-preserved historic structures. There’s so much history to explore here!
- Q: How far is Florence from Tucson?
- Florence is located about 70 miles from Tucson, making it a nice spot for tourists looking to explore a charming town outside the city.
- Q: What can visitors learn about in Florence?
- Visitors can dive into the Wild West history of this part of Arizona. It’s a great place to learn about the Old West, local heritage, and regional history.
- Q: Where is the best place to start a visit to Florence?
- The best place to start your visit is the McFarland State Park visitor center. It’s a great spot to get an overview of the town’s history and find out about things to see and do during your visit.
Plan Your Trip
