Cutest Arizona Towns: Things To Do In Strawberry, AZ
I’m all about small towns. I’m from one, for one. I also live in the ig city, Phoenix, as I’m sure many of you who are reading this are as well. There’s something special about small towns- the kind people, the family-owned restaurants you can’t find anywhere else, the hikes, the cozy cabins. I love that no matter what time of year it is, you can enjoy small towns- like Strawberry, AZ. See the fall colors, escape to a winter wonderland, watch wildflowers bloom in Spring, or have a summer vacation. Regardless, let me show you all of the wonderful things to do in Strawberry, AZ.
Strawberry, AZ is one of my favorite small towns in the state.
Things to Do in Strawberry, AZ
1. Hike Fossil Springs
I’m an outdoorsy gal, so of course I had to start the list with a HIKE. This is one of the most well-known parts of the area, and one of the best things to do in Strawberry, AZ. Fossil Springs is a few miles outside of Strawberry and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the whole state of Arizona. Please note- this hike requires a permit either days or a month in advance, and the hike is not for the weak. The hike into Fossil Springs from Strawberry is over 8 miles and over 1,000 ft elevation gain. Be prepared, but enjoy!
How To Hike To Fossil Springs
2. Visit Downtown Shops
One of the best things do to in Strawberry AZ is visit some of the local downtown shops. The shops are actually located in Pine, AZ but they’re only a few minutes away, so I consider them one in the same. It’s always good to support local businesses, get local foods to cook with, and grab a souviner! Maybe even some ice cream too :).
My Favorite Pine, Arizona Shops
The Rusty Pine Cone (Souviners), The Honey Stand (Local Foods), So N’ So Mountain Botique (Women’s Clothes), The Gingerbread House (Desserts and Ice Cream), Old Settler’s Village (Antiques, Local Art, Wood), and many more!
3. See The Pine Creek Lavender Farm
I don’t know why I haven’t been here yet (one of the few things I haven’t done in the area), but so many people think the Pine Creek Lavender Farm is one of the best things to do in Strawberry AZ. You can take photos in their lavender field (yes, they allow this for the public), get lavendar goodies in their shop, walk around the grounds, and even take classes or have events here. Definitely check it out!
4. Go Camping, Duh!
The Mogollon Rim is the edge of the Colorado Plateau that crosses Arizona and overlooks towns like Payson, Pine, and Strawberry. From any of these spots, it’s a quick drive up to the top of “the rim,” whether you’re going to watch sunset or camp. Camping is one of my FAVORITE things to do near Strawberry AZ.
Where Specifically Should You Camp?
I have been spending the last 10 years camping in Arizona. With that experience, I created a 40 page guide of MANY camping options around Payson, Pine, Strawberry, Sedona, Flagstaff and more.
Click Here to Purchase Your Guide (Less than $10!!)
5. Swim Near Water Wheel Falls
Water Wheel Falls is a short 1.6 mile hike with multiple waterfalls and swimming spots along the trail. It is very family friendly (and dog-friendly for the adventure pups) and close to town. If you hike in the summer, please bring sun protection in multiple forms.
Read More!
My Hike Review: Water Wheel Falls
6. Eat at Old County Inn (Best Pizza Ever!)
OK NO JOKE- this is my favorite pizza in the entire state of Arizona. It’s the cutest place, owned locally, uses local ingredients, and has an amazing menu. Drinks are good, appetizers are good, wood-fired pizza is insane, and pizza cookies are awesome too. I love their outdoor patio with games and that it is dog-friendly. They also have a Taproom. I’ve gone in the middle of winter and summertime- both are great.
Best Pizza in Arizona
Old County Inn: 3502 AZ-87, Pine, AZ 85544
Other Amazing Restaurants to Check Out: The Pie Bar, Windmill Coffee, THAT Brewery, Pine Provisions Wine Room, Early Bird Cafe, Barb’s Bites at Lodge 5600
7. Stay in a Local Hotel or Cabin
What’s the best way to see ALL of the things to do near Stawberry, AZ? Stay for multiple days! It’s such a beautiful area, and there are SO MANY different local hotels, lodges, and privately owned AirBNBs. I have stayed in cabins in the area many times and it just wonderful. If you’re lucky, you’ll have wildlife take a stroll past the cabin in the early morning too.
Where to Stay Near Strawberry:
Lodges/Hotels: The Strawberry Inn, Lodge 5600
Cabins: Luxury Cabin with Amazing Outdoor Space, Modern Boho Cabin, Modern Cozy Cabin
8. Try Mead in the Forest
This is one of my personal favorite things to do in Strawberry AZ. Below the Rim Meadery is one of the CUTEST little family-owned “winery.” If you haven’t had it yet, MEAD is fermented honey. Kind of tastes like fruity wine. I only have known about this place for less than a year. I need to go again! It was an adventure to get to it since it’s in the forest (but they give you instructions on their website). They have many flavors to choose from that come in these cute little test tubes. We also had a charcuterie board. Check it out!
9. Drive Up to Blue Ridge Reservoir
Blue Ridge Reservoir is about 30-40 minutes north of Pine and Strawberry and 100000% worth it. You do need to drive on a well-maintained dirt road for about 4 miles. You can park and hike, you can swim, you can kayak or paddle board, or just sit by the water. It’s such a stunning area that is so easily missed by many.
10. Eat At The Pie Bar
The Pie Bar is so much fun. It’s located in Downtown Strawberry and it’s always popping in summer. It’s a small stand where you can order pies/empanadas of all flavors- sweet and savory. You can get a full pie, or order individual empanada for a few bucks. You’ll be surprised how many options they have! It’s an experience for sure- one of my favorite things to dod in Strawberry, Arizona.
Final Thoughts About Things to Do in Strawberry AZ
I hope this blog inspires you go to explore more of this beautiful state- State 48. There’s so much magic to discover, from the desert to the forest. Happy hiking!
