CLARKDALE, AZ TOURISM
Home to Verde Canyon Railroad
Clarkdale, Arizona’s first master-planned community, was laid out in 1914 near the site of what remains of the smelter which was built in 1910 to process ore from nearby Jerome until the mine was permanently closed in 1952. Clarkdale, a totally self-sustaining company town, was built with modern amenities of the time including residents, churches, recreational and cultural facilities, an administration center and parks. The mining and smelter sites, along with the Clarkdale Memorial Clubhouse, are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. Today, Clarkdale hosts a number of community events including an art festival and Independence Day celebration.
Clarkdale has so much to offer: Tuzigoot National Monument, Dead Horse State Park, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, located between Prescott and Coconino National Forests – the opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature abound.
Experience the Verde River – one of the last live, wild rivers in Arizona. Schedule a kayaking trip with one of our outfitters that can guide you down the river’s gentle rapids. Fish from the banks, or just wade into the cool, fresh water.
Experience our historic downtown. Wander our quiet streets lined with historic homes and take in the charm that is Clarkdale. From the Car Show to the Verde Valley Wine Festival to Clarktoberfest, there’s always something going on downtown
Experience our museums. The Clarkdale Historic Society Museum’s inventory of period photographs and original plans for the homes and buildings throughout town are second to none. The Arizona Copper Art museum displays a vast collection of objects crafted from copper from the dawn of time to present day.
Experience nature. Experience history. Experience Clarkdale.
February: Gem and Mineral Show
Bi-annual Gem & Mineral Show in Clarkdale, Arizona (25 minutes from Sedona). Free admission! This show is packed with vendors offering minerals, crystals, gemstones, handmade jewelry, fossils, cabochons, findings, rock slabs, geodes, and more. Daily raffles. **FREE** Kids activities!Location: Clark Memorial Clubhouse Auditorium, 19 N. 9th Street Clarkdale, AZ 86324. Learn more at: mingusgem.club/contact-us/
March: Clarkdale Car Show
The Clarkdale Car Show is held annually in beautiful, historic downtown Clarkdale. There will be live music, beer, food and rally car races. On display you can view all years, makes and models of cars, trucks, sports cars, antique cars and street rods. Admission is free! Fun for the whole family.
May: Clarkdale Beer Festival
