Willcox

Rex Allen was born and raised in Willcox. Tributes to the cowboy actor include the Rex Allen Arizona Cowboy Museum and Cowboy Hall of Fame on Railroad Avenue and a bronze statue in a park across from the museum. A bronze heart embedded in the statue at Allen's request represents his enduring love for his hometown. The Friends of Marty Robbins Museum has joined Rex Allen on Railroad Avenue and pays tribute to the late singer/actor.

Cattle raising is still important, but added to the contemporary economic mix are the cultivation of apples, peaches, pistachios, onions and tomatoes. At a variety of “U-pick” farms northwest via Fort Grant Road, visitors can pluck fresh produce straight from the orchards and fields July through October.

Thanks to its high desert climate, Willcox also is known for its vineyards, which produce Syrah, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon among several other grape varieties. Maps for a self-guiding wine country tour are available at the Willcox Regional Visitor Center.

Birding is a popular diversion in Sulphur Springs Valley, a mecca for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds as well as wintering raptors. Sandhill cranes arrive in October and stay through February.

Southeast of town at Apache Pass is the isolated Fort Bowie National Historic Site. The fort was built in 1862 to guard the Butterfield Overland Trail and to protect pioneers from Apache raids and skirmishes with Native Americans led by Cochise and Geronimo. The site can only be reached by traveling the last 1.5 miles on foot. The high elevation and temperature extremes might make this hike unsuitable for some. Water is available at the fort, but hikers should bring their own canteen. Beware of flash floods, mountain lions and rattlesnakes. All historic items and natural features are strictly protected; metal detectors, digging tools, guns and hunting are prohibited. Phone (520) 847-2500.

Visitor Centers

Self-guiding Tours

Things to Do

Rex Allen Arizona Cowboy Museum and Cowboy Hall of Fame