Safford Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the southeastern region of Arizona, Safford is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Graham and surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Safford is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

One of the main attractions in Safford is the stunning Mount Graham International Observatory. Situated at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, this observatory provides visitors with a chance to explore the wonders of the universe. Whether it's gazing at distant galaxies through powerful telescopes or learning about the latest astronomical discoveries, the observatory offers an unforgettable experience for both amateur stargazers and seasoned astronomers.

For those seeking a more active adventure, Safford boasts an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. The nearby Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area is a hidden gem for nature lovers. With its rugged canyons, lush riparian areas, and diverse wildlife, it offers endless opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

If you're interested in history and culture, Safford has plenty to offer as well. The Graham County Historical Society Museum is a must-visit for anyone curious about the city's past. From Native American artifacts to exhibits on local pioneers, the museum provides a fascinating insight into the area's rich heritage.

For a taste of the local cuisine, be sure to visit one of Safford's charming downtown restaurants. From classic American fare to Mexican delicacies, there's something to satisfy every palate. After a satisfying meal, take a leisurely stroll along the historic Main Street, where you'll find charming boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops.

No visit to Safford would be complete without exploring the nearby natural wonders. The Coronado National Forest offers breathtaking hiking trails, scenic drives, and camping opportunities. From the rugged beauty of the Pinaleño Mountains to the serene beauty of the desert landscapes, the region's natural wonders are sure to leave you in awe.

Alternative names: Population: 9.7 thous.Area: 8.59 mi²Elevation: 2913 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 32°50'2"N, 109°43'1"W

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ArizonaUnited States

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Safford Top Attractions

Safford Attractions - What to See and Explore

Safford offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Safford City-Graham County Library, Graham County Courthouse, Buena Vista Hotel, Point of Pines Sites. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Library
Safford City-Graham County Library
The Safford City–Graham County Library is a public library in Safford, Arizona serving Graham County, Greenlee County and Gila County. It is known locally by the abbreviated Safford Library.
32°49'60"N • 109°43'1"W
Graham County Courthouse
The current Graham County Courthouse is a courthouse located at 800 W. Main St. in Safford, Arizona that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a two-story red brick building above a concrete foundation that includes a raised basement.
32°49'60"N • 109°42'40"W
Buena Vista Hotel
The historic Buena Vista Hotel in Safford, Arizona was built in 1928 at cost of $80,000. The 2-story, 46-room hotel was built by Fred and Minta Waughtal, who owned the nearby Olive Hotel, and opened Oct. 15, 1929.

Day trips

Safford – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Safford, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Large Binocular Telescope (Coronado National Forest), Rex Allen Museum (Willcox), Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (Coronado National Forest).

14 milesSW
Observatories and planetariums
Large Binocular Telescope, Coronado National Forest
The Large Binocular Telescope is an optical telescope for astronomy located on 10,700-foot Mount Graham, in the Pinaleno Mountains of southeastern Arizona, United States. It is a part of the Mount Graham International Observatory.
41 milesS
Specialty museum, Museum
Rex Allen Museum, Willcox
The Rex Allen Arizona Cowboy Museum and Willcox Cowboy Hall of Fame, is a museum in Willcox, Arizona, United States. Rex Elvie Allen, born and raised 40 miles north of Willcox, was known as the "Arizona Cowboy" and "Mister Cowboy". Allen was an authentic cowboy. Allen was an American film and television actor, singer and songwriter.
14 milesSW
Observatories and planetariums
Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope, Coronado National Forest
The 1.8 meter Alice P. Lennon Telescope and its Thomas J. Bannan Astrophysics Facility, known together as the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope, is a Gregorian telescope observing in the optical and infrared situated on Mount Graham in southeast Arizona, United States.
14 milesSW
Observatories and planetariums
Heinrich Hertz Submillimeter Telescope, Coronado National Forest
The Submillimeter Telescope, formerly known as the Heinrich Hertz Submillimeter Telescope, is a submillimeter wavelength radio telescope located on Mount Graham, Arizona, US.
13 milesSW
Nature, Natural attraction, Natural feature
Pinaleño Mountains, Coronado National Forest
The Pinaleño Mountains, are a remote mountain range in southeastern Arizona, near Safford, Arizona. The mountains have over 7,000 feet of vertical relief, more than any other range in the state. The mountains are surrounded by the Sonoran-Chihuahuan Desert. Subalpine forests cover the higher elevations.