Patagonia

Stop for birding, and a whole lot more in the town of Patagonia. It’s quirky – just the way locals like it.

Not to sound threatening, but you’ll regret it if you simply drive through Patagonia on your way to or from somewhere else.

As the speed limit on State Route 83 slows at the edge of town, take that as a signal to get out of your car and explore this quirky Arizona town. You’ll find charming coffee shops, throwback cowgirl bars, truly interesting retail stores – ask a local about the flute maker! – and a pizza joint that’s as much of a fan of marinara as it is Elvis, The King.

While you’re looking around, look up! The Nature Conservancy’s Sonoita Creek State Park Natural Area and Patagonia Lake welcome winged friends, such as vermilion flycatchers and fan-tailed warblers, who appreciate the region’s riparian habitat. In fact, the town is a must visit according to the book Fifty Places to Go Birding Before You Die: Birding Experts Share the World’s Greatest Destinations.