When it comes to historic towns in Arizona, it's hard to beat Douglas. This border community has both mining and military roots, and it's home to a number of old houses and buildings that offer insight into its rich, fascinating past. See the best things to do in Douglas, AZ, and why it makes the perfect day trip destination. It's a treat - we promise!
A small border town in Cochise County, Douglas is a paradise for history buffs.
It was first settled by Spanish explorers in the 18th century, and over the years served as a U.S. Army camp and copper smelter site.
Downtown Douglas still looks much the same as it did centuries ago.
Historic buildings line the streets, their weathered, yet sturdy facades frozen in time.
Touring the Douglas-Williams House Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's rich past. Now the headquarters of the Douglas Historical Society, the home was built in 1909 by copper mining kingpin James S. Douglas.
Self-guided tours are available on Wednesday and Saturday. Please visit the Douglas Arizona History website for more information.
Ogle at the Grand Theatre, a 1919 building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The theatre once played host to countless live productions, movie showings, and local high school graduations.
Such big names as Ginger Rogers and John Phillip Sousa performed on stage here. The theatre is no longer in operation and is considered to be endangered due to significant damage, however, it is in the process of being restored.
Also on the National Register of Historic Places is the Hotel Gadsden, a stately, five-story hotel that opened in 1907.
The hotel was designed with mining executives and other bigwigs of the era in mind, however it has become a local icon that attracts visitors from all over the state.
The lobby is grand and beautiful, with an Italian marble staircase, four huge columns, and a 42-foot stained glass window mural.
Since this is a day trip article, you don't have to spend the night - but at least pop in for a few minutes to admire the world-class architecture!
The Border Air Museum is another truly intriguing place in town. After all, Douglas was home to the first international airport in the United States!
Visits must be arranged by direct correspondence with the City of Douglas, but you won't regret making the effort. In addition to old photographs and memorabilia, you'll also see historic aircraft - some even used in Hollywood filmmaking.
Have you ever visited Douglas AZ? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article for a nearby small town that's hiding one of the nicest restaurants in America.
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