These 9 Arizona towns have bright, unique downtowns you have to see. Here's why

Arizona is a daytrippers paradise, with dozens of hidden gems just a few hours from the major population centers.

World Atlas , a geography website, compiled a list of the most vibrant small towns in Arizona, pointing out Cave Creek's Wild West spirit, Sedona's natural beauty and Bisbee's artsy vibe and history, among other things.

Even though you may have driven through some of these towns or stopped to see fall colors , there are other cities, streets or shops in the Grand Canyon State for you to explore before the end of the year comes.

Whether you're looking for stunning vistas, unique boutiques or delicious food, here are nine Arizona small towns with one-of-a-kind downtowns and why you should visit them.

Cave Creek

Cave Creek is just a short drive from much of metro Phoenix, but it feels much further away when you stroll through the town.

The northern suburb of the Valley will give you a perfect Wild West experience, whether you're looking to take a horseback ride, drink a beer at a classic saloon or step back in time at Frontier Town.

While you're visiting check out 4-acre public botanical garden and one of the largest working sundials in the country.

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Sedona

Sedona is no longer one of Arizona's hidden gems, but a small town in which people visit from across the country to visit.

Its vibrant red rocks and spiritual culture make Sedona a haven for those wanting to get in touch with their earthy side. Tarot card readings and ice coffees can be found at every corner along the strip. More daring souls will take the hike up to Devil's Bridge , a natural wonder nestled in the middle of the mountains.

Bisbee

A town hidden within the Mule Mountains and located only 11 miles north of the Mexican border, Bisbee is worth taking the trek to see.

Once the largest city in Arizona, bolstered by its robust mining economy, this town is now known for its hilly terrain and historical architecture.

Bisbee's magnificent mountains and cute Victorian homes will transport you, whether you're going on a tour of its Copper Queen Mines or taking on the thousands of stairs scattered around the city.

Winslow

The Eagles knew Winslow was a cool place, which may be why the band wrote the small town into one of their most famous songs "Take it Easy."

The city created a park with a bronze sculpture of a troubadour anchoring a street corner. A big mural filled in other elements — town name, a girl in the flatbed Ford — and now people come from all over the world to stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. More than 100,000 a year seek out this musical tableau. Such a fine sight to see.

While you're there, check out the historic La Posada Hotel for food or lodging and visit the Old Trails Museum, which houses a bounty of exhibits that include Native American pottery, railroad artifacts, Route 66 memorabilia and an impressive collection of fossils.

Flagstaff

Drive up north for a few hours and experience an average of 108 inches of snowfall in the winter months and temperatures that plateau in the 80s during the summertime. Flagstaff is the best place in Arizona to get a taste of each of the seasons with vibrancy.

If you crave a bit of adventure, numerous campsites and hiking trails are scattered throughout the largest ponderosa pine forest in the world. Visitors who come to explore the historic downtown area can enjoy live music, great food and local art.

Tubac

Tubac's history is as complex and multicultural as the people who reside there. Spaniards first recorded the existence of this town as they were establishing missions to baptize Indigenous people in 1726. Through its centuries of development, Tubac has been home to East Coast entrepreneurs, Hispanic communities and many other groups.

Its diverse culture has provided the ideal backdrop to a vibrant arts community where you can find creative pieces in mediums like oil, watercolors, charcoal, glass, ceramics, metal and wood. Visit the town's historic buildings or its equally iconic galleries.

Cottonwood

Not long ago, Cottonwood was a sleepy little burg with much of its small downtown sitting vacant. Everything changed when vineyards and wineries sprang up on nearby hillsides with rich volcanic soil.

Jerome

While Jerome's " ghost town " status may precede it, this small town is less haunting than most believe. Also a former mining town, once known as the “Wickedest Town in the West,” Jerome is now a hot spot for tourists and artists who hope to find inspiration in the mysterious city.

However, it's no mystery that Jerome is home to great burgers, wine and antique shops which visitors can enjoy with their side of historical lore.

Payson

Payson, located northeast of Phoenix, is a gateway to many outdoor adventures. Whether you're visiting Tonto Natural Bridge, fishing at a lake, taking a scenic drive or just enjoying the cooler weather, there's an activity for everyone to enjoy.

When you're done outdoors, stop at old-school eatery Pinon Cafe or Buffalo Bar & Grill for a memorable bite to eat. The Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin also allow visitors to immerse themselves in some of the best stories of the West.

Arizona Republic contributor Roger Naylor and former Arizona Republic reporter Brenna Gauchat contributed to this article.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: These 9 Arizona towns have bright, unique downtowns you have to see. Here's why