Arizona’s history and reason for settlement can be attributed, in large part, to mining. Areas where big “booms” happened started out strong, but as mining came to an end, many of these towns began a slow decline in population. In the past few years, many of these towns have become artist havens and popular tourist spots. Start digging around and see what you’ll find in these great locales.

Begin your journey in north central Arizona in Jerome. Located near Sedona and literally built on the side of a mountain, Jerome offers spectacular views of the red rock cliffs in the Verde Valley. Driving up the winding road, visitors will first see the old, yet colorful, homes that were built by some of the first settlers in this nearly mile-high city. Find all kinds of artwork, from blown glass to metalwork to paintings. Grab a bite to eat at the Haunted Hamburger and relax with a glass of wine at Jerome Winery. Overnight at the Connor Hotel, which is said to be haunted—and before bed, catch a live band in the Spirit Room bar on the main floor.

Just an hour and a half east of Phoenix, you’ll find the “twin cities” of Globe and Miami. Located in the foothills of the Pinal Mountains, each of these towns offers unique experiences for visitors. In Miami, search for quirky items in one of the many antique shops. Then move on to Globe, where history buffs will revel in the towns history—beginning with Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park, where visitors can see how some of the first settlers of the area lived during the 12th and 13th centuries; Gila County Jail, where some of the Old West’s meanest criminals spent time; and the beautifully-restored Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, where visitors can see work by local artists and catch a play.

Tucked in the Mule Mountains of southeastern Arizona, Bisbee’s look reminds some visitors of a small-scale San Francisco, with winding hills and unique architecture. Begin your journey here with a tour at the Queen Mine, where visitors don hard hats with lights and yellow slickers. Then tour the Smithsonian-affiliated Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum before exploring some of the town’s unique shops—Killer Bee Honey (award-winning honey and mustards) and Optimo Custom Hatworks (where Panama hats are custom-made from materials such as beaver, cashmere and rabbit) are shops that won’t be found anywhere else. Bisbee is so well-preserved that the National Trust for Historic Preservation named it among “America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations” in 2005.