Arizona's 'Heart Of The Sonoran Desert' Is A Charming Community With Scenic Views And Artsy Vibes

If you're craving a getaway that blends rich history, stunning desert landscapes, and a vibrant arts scene, Ajo, Arizona is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, this small town — pronounced "AH-ho," the same as the Spanish pronunciation of the word for garlic and meaning "red ore" in the local Tohono O'odham language — is an unincorporated community in Pima County, Arizona, a former copper-mining mecca. The mines have been closed for decades, but instead of becoming a ghost town, today, Ajo is a peaceful oasis where you can wander through a beautifully preserved Spanish Colonial Revival–style plaza and discover colorful murals that tell the story of the town's mining past and cultural heritage. Twelve million acres of public and tribal land, including nearby Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, attract outdoor lovers to the area's rare desert flora and sweeping views — perfect for hiking, birdwatching – and some of the Southwest's darkest, clearest night skies. The National Wildlife Federation has also designated Ajo as a Certified Wildlife Habitat community, only the second in Arizona and 65th in the U.S. with this distinction.

Beyond its natural beauty, Ajo is a place of reinvention and creativity, transforming into a hub for artists, sustainable agriculture, and community-driven projects. The Curley School, built in 1919, was once the town's public school, but is now lofts for artists in residence. The open studies and galleries invite visitors to connect with local creators. Meanwhile, the Art Under the Arches gallery showcases Sonoran art and hand-crafted souvenirs showcasing local flair. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination with authentic charm, Ajo's little town in the middle of nowhere is an inspiring desert oasis.

Long before European settlers set eye on the Sonoran Desert, the southwest corner of what is now Arizona was occupied by the Tohono O'odham tribe, who used water from natural, pothole-like springs they called "Mu'i Wawhia or Moivavi" (many wells). They called the area "au-auho," describing the color of the local ore. Later, Spanish explorers discovered the ore, and around the turn of the 20th century, a mining boom followed. The mine built in Ajo was big — nearly 1.5 miles across and 1,000 feet deep. Many American West mining towns cropped up haphazardly in an attempt to suit the needs of ore-seekers and adventure-seekers, and abandoned mining towns became ghost towns. But Ajo was planned out in Spanish Colonial Revival Style around the early 20th century, designed with the intent to make Ajo a "model" company town as opposed to the typical mining camp. Churches, the community-centered Ajo Plaza, and neighborhoods were designed with a sense of order and beauty, setting Ajo apart aesthetically from many other desert mining settlements of its day. A railway corridor was built to connect the town to the Southern Pacific Railroad at Gila Bend. 

Although the mine closed for good in 1985, today, the town is being revitalized with tourism, art, and plain-old desert mysticism: Its legacy shines through in its charming, photogenic character. It's just 1.5 miles from Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge and about 100 miles from Casa Grande, a historic desert monument featuring ancient ruins. Ajo is located on State Highway 85 in south-central Arizona. To get there, fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, about 115 miles away, or Tucson International Airport, about 130 miles away.

Start your visit at Ajo Plaza, a lush and picturesque town hub built in 1917. Grab coffee and breakfast at Oasis Coffee, which has 4.9 out of 5 stars on Tripadvisor, then stroll along the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, check out local galleries and artisan shops, and the Ajo Historical Society Museum, housed in an old mission in what was once "Indian Town," the Native American neighborhood. Explore the colorful murals and sculptures scattered throughout town, many created by local artists who've helped transform Ajo's identity. 

Around midday, have Mexican-American food for lunch at Grannymac's Kitchen or tacos on a patio overlooking the plaza at El Tarasco, or pack a picnic and head out for some outdoor adventure. The Ajo Mountain Loop is a scenic drive with great views, or venture into Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument for hiking and wildlife spotting. "Yes, the park may not have the 'wow-factor' of Yosemite or Bryce Canyon," said one reviewer on Tripadvisor, "but the solitude is so refreshing in a day when our parks are being loved to death." The park also offers the Junior Ranger program, a fun and interactive way to learn about the region's natural history and environment.

After your adventure, return to Ajo for dinner: try a brisket sandwich at Agave Grill 2 or or a burger and some arcade games at Fat Cactus. If you can, plan your visit around a local event or art workshop to connect with the community — the town hosts a unique Christmas celebration, and other themed events like food festivals and arts weekends. End your day stargazing — the Ajo area is part of the International Dark Sky preserve, a breathtaking place to look up at night.