Nogales

Visiting Nogales, Arizona, is as close to traveling to Mexico as you can get without needing a passport. But this welcoming community has embraced many aspects of Mexican culture: warm and hospitable people, respect for history and traditions, and incredible food.

Walk to the tunes of upbeat music, pumped through indoor and outdoor speakers, as you stroll along the shops on Morley Avenue. When you’re ready for a meal, pick any one of the authentic Mexican restaurants. Naming just one would be unfair; they’re all good.

Delve deeper into local history and culture. The Pimeria Alta Historical Society and Museum contains a fascinating history on the area, including information on the military encampment “Camp Little” and Pancho Villa’s Battle of Nogales. Built in 1904, the Historic Santa Cruz County Courthouse, not far from the museum, is a stunner.

Explore the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, a route taken by a Spanish military leader of the same name on his late-1700s quest to establish a settlement at the San Francisco Bay.

If you do want to go international, you can walk or drive across the border to Nogales’ sister city, Nogales, Sonora. Browse the colorful offerings of the many storefronts and vendors lining the streets. Just be sure to carry your passport – you’ll need it for re-entry.

Visit Town Website