An Historical Past

Senior travelers, here’s the rest of the Ajo story, the former copper mining town turned lovely retirement community.  Ajo, in the very south of Arizona, shows off its beautiful plaza, lined with Spanish style markets, and two beautiful white churches at its commercial center.

The impressive facade of the Curley School brightens the opposite end of the street a few blocks away.  The Curley School on the National Register of Historic Places, is located in the beautiful and equally historic heart of Ajo.

Quaint residential streets lined with many Spanish style houses, the town is reforming itself as a retirement community. Winters are warm and the heat of summer is extreme. Senior visitors find plenty to see and do in Ajo.

Downtown Ajo Welcomes Seniors

Trip Advisor and I agree that a senior coffee, breakfast or lunch stop at Marcela’s Cafe & Bakery, where the locals congregate, is a must. Looking for a place to live during the winter months? Check out this listing. Ajo is quite protected by a huge border patrol station south of town.  If you own an RV, this park is worth checking out. The Cabeza Prieta Natural History Association invites seniors to learn about the history of Ajo as well as the surrounding area.

So venture south from Gila Bend to Why and Ajo.  The route, Hwy 85, is declared a “scenic route” as you pass through mountains, wide views of the Sonoran Desert wildlife all along the highway. You will see signs that indicate senior drivers need to watch for roadrunners, cattle and coyotes along the highway. Arizona has much to offer and these small communities is one reason why. I love Arizona and both of these towns, and I think you will too. So come and visit. jeb