Nestled Between Tucson And Sierra Vista Is Arizona's Overlooked City With Unique Attractions

A land of geological wonders, Arizona hides a new adventure between every gorge and mesa. Most visitors will flock to the Grand Canyon, where a hidden valley offers zip-lining and unmatched views. But in the dusty plains along Arizona's southern edge, a forgotten gem sits amidst a hushed landscape — waiting patiently for travelers to chance upon its treasures. Tucked within the San Pedro River Valley, Benson may be just a speck on the map, but its charms jump right off the page.

Suffused with a nostalgic, Old West charm, Benson embraces its industrial past while hooking travelers in with a quirky atmosphere. Vibrantly detailed murals brighten the walls around the downtown area, painting stories of the town's railroad history while creating fun backdrops to snap photos. A splash pad for kids and adults alike provides respite from the desert heat, while the plethora of bakeries, juice bars, and quaint country diners along the downtown stretch offer travelers a comfortable spot to relax and refuel. Once a mere layover station for passing stagecoaches, Benson is now a modestly flourishing hive of one-of-a-kind sightseeing stops.

Meet herds of friendly donkeys at Forever Home Donkey Rescue and Sanctuary — sure to be a thrill for children — or find spiritual awakening at the Holy Trinity Monastery Center. Not to be missed while in town is Kartchner Caverns State Park, anchoring the southern edge of town. Ancient limestone mountains eroded over many millennia, forming rugged underground caverns hidden beneath the arid landscape, which can be explored through guided tours. Make your day trip in Benson a weekend getaway at a rustic inn or roadside motel. Travelers in Tucson can reach Benson in just under an hour by car, while locals in Sierra Vista are just a 35-minute drive away.

Start the day in Benson with a quick peek at the Visitor Center, a reconstruction of the original train depot where steam locomotives once whistled through to drop off passengers. The town developed around the tracks of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s, serving as a loading stop for copper and silver. Scale models of locomotive engines are on display inside, while working trains chug along miniature train tracks that visitors can try their hand at controlling. Maps are also available here to help visitors head out on a tour of Benson's historic stops. Just around the corner is the Benson Historical Museum, where displays of artifacts ranging from pottery shards to vintage costumes unravel the layers of the town's past.

Just south of town, a peaceful sanctuary can be found at the Holy Trinity Monastery. Head inside to tour the rustic adobe chapel adorned with painted tiles. Just beyond, guests will find a tranquil garden where visitors can rest awhile. The experience is "beautiful, simple, and restorative," according to a Google review. Peacocks prance between ponds bursting with lotus flowers, while leafy trees offer shade for contemplative strolls. Follow along the Trinity Wild Bird Sanctuary trail to explore more of the monastery's countryside landscapes, or retire to the library to get cozy with a good book.

Alternatively, travel back in time to the Wild West at Empire Ranch — a historic homestead located about an hour west of Benson. What began as a modest lodge in the 1860s grew to include a silver mine along with herds of cattle, and the sprawling mansion standing today is a monument to ranching heritage. Free guided tours of the property are offered regularly, and a walking trail lets visitors explore the idyllic woodlands surrounding the estate.

Step into a subterranean planet when you visit Kartchner Caverns State Park, just 15 minutes south of town. The crashing waves of a prehistoric sea and shifting layers of ancient mountains merged together over the course of roughly 300 million years to form rugged underground grottoes. A previous visitor shared in a Google review: "Kartchner Caverns is unlike anything I've ever seen — a state-of-the-art facility protecting one of the most beautiful natural spaces I've ever stepped into ... it's humbling and breathtaking all at once." The cavern walls, tinged a rusty orange, are pleated with crevices. Rocky pinnacles reach upward to the jagged spines dangling from the ceiling, which are constantly growing from trickling water. Various guided tours are available, but must be booked in advance.

Scenic drives and vigorous treks through rugged Arizona landscapes await at Coronado National Forest. Grassy meadows sway on the rippling slopes, framed by groves of spiky saguaro and dense scrubland. Drive along paved roads to enjoy breezy views, or follow winding dirt paths to mountain summits for panoramas of the hilly landscape. Head to Parker Canyon Lake for a refreshing swim, or bring a picnic to enjoy by the shore. Rent a boat to glide out on the water, where anglers can fish for bass and trout depending on the season.

Back in Benson, stop for comfort food at The Horseshoe, a small-town diner serving cheeseburgers and country fried steak. Grab drinks and play darts at Page's Palace, while locals love the Mad Mule Coffee Co. for lattes, pastries, and healthy salads. From historic sightseeing to otherworldly geology, Benson packs excitement for all types of travelers. For more Arizona adventures, head south to Douglas, a border town brimming with charm and history, or make your way east to Cave Creek Canyon, known as "Arizona's Yosemite."