- Q: What is Florence, Arizona known for?
- A: Florence, Arizona is an old Western town with a rich history and 25 historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as more than 140 well-preserved historic buildings.
- Q: How far is Florence from Tucson?
- A: Florence is located only about 70 miles from Tucson, making it a nice spot for tourists to visit.
- Q: What can visitors learn about in Florence?
- A: Visitors can learn about the Wild West history of this part of Arizona.
- Q: Where is the best place to start a visit to Florence?
- A: The best place to start is the visitors center at McFarland State Park.
1.For History Enthusiasts: Pinal County Historical Museum
Explore fascinating local artifacts and learn about unusual Arizona history on your trip.
A hidden gem in the heart of historic Florence, the Pinal County Historical Museum offers a quirky and captivating look into the local past. Through an eclectic mix of artifacts and exhibits, the museum brings the colorful history of Florence and Pinal County to life—from its Wild West roots to its more unusual and unexpected stories.
Highlights:
- Displays on Florence's Wild West and prison history
- Original cactus furniture and historical execution artifacts
- Hohokam pottery and Native American playing cards
- Exhibits on comic strip creator Gus Arriola and WWII POW Camp Florence
- Memorabilia from rodeos, ranching, and classic Western film stars
Pro Tip:
Don’t rush—some of the most interesting items are tucked into corners. Ask the staff about their favorite oddities for stories you won’t find on the placards.
Pinal County Historical Museum, 715 S Main St, Florence, AZ 85132
Phone: 520-868-4382
2.For Adventure Lovers: St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery
Admire peaceful gardens and look at stunning Byzantine architecture on a romantic visit.
An oasis of spiritual devotion and Byzantine beauty in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, the St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery was founded in 1995 near Florence, Arizona—about 80 miles southeast of Phoenix. The monastery was established at the request of a local Greek-American Orthodox community and built under the spiritual guidance of Elder Ephraim, with the arrival of six Athonite monks from Greece.
Highlights:
- Founded by Athonite monks in 1995 under Elder Ephraim
- Located in the Sonoran Desert near Florence, AZ
- Home to 40+ monks and multiple chapels and gardens
- Open to visitors of all faiths for tours and services
- Extensive gardens, fountains, and beautifully maintained grounds
Pro Tip:
Dress modestly—women are asked to wear long skirts and head coverings, while men should wear long pants and long sleeves. Visit in the morning for a quiet, contemplative experience before the desert heat rises.
St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery, 4784 N St Joseph's Way, Florence, AZ 85132
Phone: 520-868-3188
3.For Thrill Seekers: Arizona ATV Adventures
Ride through scenic desert trails and enjoy exciting off-road sights with the family.
For an unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of Arizona’s backcountry, Arizona ATV Adventures offers the ultimate guided experience. As the state’s oldest and largest outdoor adventure outfitter, this tour company provides a safe and thrilling way to explore the Sonoran Desert, mountains, and canyons surrounding Florence.
Highlights:
- Guided ATV tours through the scenic Sonoran Desert
- Visit old mining camps, petroglyphs, and a historic stagecoach depot
- Explore Box Canyon with its towering 900-foot cliff walls
- Includes ATV, safety gear, guide, and training
- Perfect for beginners and seasoned riders alike
Pro Tip:
Wear sunscreen and bring a bandana or face covering—desert dust is real! Morning tours are best for cooler temps and ideal light for photos inside the canyon.
Arizona ATV Adventures, E Price Rd, Florence, AZ 85132
Phone: 800-242-6335
4.For Wine Connoisseurs: The Windmill Winery
Savor handcrafted wines and admire rustic charm during a romantic or retirement getaway.
A romantic desert oasis on the outskirts of Florence, The Windmill Winery is one of Arizona’s most sought-after wedding and event destinations. Set on expansive, impeccably landscaped grounds, the winery features two scenic lakes, miles of lush greenery, and multiple venue spaces that blend rustic charm with refined elegance.
Highlights:
- Historic 100-year-old barn and Hamptons-style Lake House venue
- Wine tasting room inside a restored 1920s dairy barn
- Set on lush grounds with two lakes and stunning views
- Popular wedding and special event destination
- Features local and international wines with expert guidance
Pro Tip:
Reservations are recommended for wine tasting, especially on weekends when weddings are scheduled. Golden hour around the lake is perfect for a stroll and photos.
The Windmill Winery, 1140 W Butte Ave, Florence, AZ 85132
Phone: 480-313-2303
5.For Golfers: Poston Butte Golf Club
Play scenic desert fairways and enjoy an affordable, relaxing weekend golf trip.
A scenic and skillfully designed course set in the heart of Florence, the Poston Butte Golf Club is an 18-hole championship golf course created by acclaimed designer Gary Panks. With wide fairways, multiple tee options, and breathtaking desert views, the course offers an ideal blend of playability and challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
Highlights:
- Designed by Gary Panks with five tee sets (5,300–7,300 yards)
- Spacious fairways and challenging green complexes
- Full practice facility with driving range and target greens
- Large putting green, chipping area, and practice bunker
- Welcomes golfers of all skill levels
Pro Tip:
Book a morning tee time for cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise views over the desert landscape. Don’t skip the practice area—it’s one of the best in central Arizona.
Poston Butte Golf Club, 6100 Merrill Ranch Pkwy, Florence, AZ 85232
Phone: 520-723-1880
6.For Film History Fans: Tom Mix Memorial
Visit a historic roadside tribute and learn about this unusual Western film legend.
Along a quiet stretch of State Route 79 just south of Florence2-foot high metal horse with its head bowed and reins loose. This is Tony, the horse that has lost its rider. The Tom Mix Memorial marks the spot where legendary silent film cowboy Tom Mix tragically died in a car crash on October 12, 1940.
Highlights:
- Tribute to silent film cowboy and real-life Western icon Tom Mix
- Located roadside on State Route 79, just south of Florence
- Features a symbolic sculpture of a riderless horse named Tony
- Marks the site of Mix’s fatal 1940 car accident
- Tom Mix Wash is named in memory of the incident
Pro Tip:
This is a quick and memorable roadside stop—perfect for history buffs or lovers of old Westerns. Pull off safely and take a moment to reflect on a Hollywood legend whose larger-than-life persona left a lasting mark on American culture.
Tom Mix Memorial, State Route 79, Florence, AZ 85132
7.For Equipment Renters: AZ Rentals and More, LLC
Drive ATVs through rugged terrain and enjoy a cheap, exciting desert adventure.
For thrill-seekers looking to explore the wild terrain around Florence, AZ Rentals and More, LLC offers top-of-the-line off-road vehicle rentals designed for desert adventure. Specializing in high-performance machines like Polaris RZRs and Can-Am X3s, this local rental agency makes it easy to hit the dirt trails and discover dramatic landscapes such as the iconic Box Canyon.
Highlights:
- Rentals of Polaris RZRs and Can-Am X3 off-road vehicles
- Ideal for exploring Box Canyon and desert trails
- Basic training provided for new drivers
- AllTrails app recommended for route navigation
- Guided tours available October–April
Pro Tip:
Plan your ride in the cooler months and bring a bandana or face covering for dust. Book early during peak season—this is one of Florence’s most popular adrenaline adventures.
AZ Rentals and More, LLC, 3110 N Pinal Pkwy Ave, Florence, AZ 85132
Phone: 480-331-7623
8.For Cultural Foodies: MT Athos Restaurant & Cafe
Savor Greek specialties and enjoy a casual, affordable meal with the kids.
A beloved local favorite since 2005, MT Athos Restaurant & Cafe brings the rich flavors of Greece to the heart of Florence, Arizona. This family-owned and operated eatery specializes in authentic Greek cuisine alongside a mix of American and Italian comfort dishes, all served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Authentic Greek cuisine with American and Italian favorites
- Family-owned with a casual, welcoming atmosphere
- Spacious layout with booths, bar seating, and small tables
- Fan-favorites include spicy gyros and flaming cheese
- Full bar with wine and beer on tap
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the flaming saganaki—it’s a crowd-pleasing show and a delicious start to your meal. Come early on weekends, as the restaurant fills up fast with locals in the know.
MT Athos Restaurant & Cafe, 444 N Pinal Pkwy, Florence, AZ 85232
Phone: 520-868-0735
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. For History Enthusiasts: Pinal County Historical Museum
- 2. For Adventure Lovers: St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery
- 3. For Thrill Seekers: Arizona ATV Adventures
- 4. For Wine Connoisseurs: The Windmill Winery
- 5. For Golfers: Poston Butte Golf Club
- 6. For Film History Fans: Tom Mix Memorial
- 7. For Equipment Renters: AZ Rentals and More, LLC
- 8. For Cultural Foodies: MT Athos Restaurant & Cafe