By local contributor
Dena Roche
ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ’s history is rooted in the Wild, Wild West. While today the city might be more Lil Wayne than John Wayne, you can still unleash your inner cowgirl (or cowboy!) throughout town. Here’s where you can find authentic Western wear in ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ, along with fun places to show it off!
The first step to embracing your internal Annie Oakley or Jesse James is looking the part. In Old Town ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ, is your one-stop shop for all things upscale Western, from country-cute dresses to classic men’s leather vests and everything in between – all from top-name brands like Tasha Polizzi, Kimes Ranch, Robert Graham and Old Gringo. At (pictured), belly up to the bar to design your perfect custom cowboy hat. Start by choosing your hat’s style and color from a rainbow of options, then browse accessories like bands, ribbons, charms, and feathers. You can even have your creation branded! And no matter your outfit, it won’t be complete without jewelry and accessories from , an Indigenous-owned marketplace featuring turquoise and silver jewelry, clothing and home décor items by more than 400 Native artisans.
If you’re staying in North ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ, mosey on over to to stock up on your Western gear. The heart of any Western wardrobe is the perfect pair of jeans, and that’s just what locally-owned creates. Their men’s and women’s denim pieces are fashionable enough for a night on the town and sturdy enough to weather a day in the saddle. At , your personal bootender will help you find the perfect leather cowboy boots or hat while serving you your favorite libation to sip as you shop. And whatever you choose, it can be branded with your monogram to truly make it yours. For a look that goes from the runway to the rodeo, point your toes to for a selection of the most fashionable western boots available.
Once you’re decked out, it’s time to put your digs to the test at . For over 50 years this family-owned ranch has offered ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ visitors an authentic Western experience. Book a group or private horseback ride on trails through the beautiful Sonoran Desert, and in the winter or spring, end the ride with a Cowboy Cookout. Insider tip: if you’re bringing your sweetie along on the ride, opt for one of MacDonald Ranch’s romantic moonlight rides. Offered only a few nights each month, these rides let you experience the desert in a luminescent lunar glow.
If you’re ready to kick up those new cowboy boots, y’all must check out (pictured) in Old Town ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ. It was the first bar in the city and is a registered historical landmark. Once inside the swinging doors, order a cold one and wander through the bar checking out the walls boasting pictures, letters dollar bills and license plates from its famous and not-so-famous past guests. With live music every day and night, lasso up your pardner or gal pals and show off your twirls and two-steppin’ skills. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled because country legends like Dierks Bentley and Blake Shelton have been known to grace the saloon.
If you’re looking for a little cowboy chic, keep your eyes peeled for General the horse who stands guard on the deck of . This stud welcomes all to this classy Old Town watering hole that mixes the Old West with the new. Enjoy a draft beer, a glass of wine, or savor one of Porters’ notable craft cocktails like the Postmaster and El Diablo served up in a comfortable, cozy environment.
debuted in the 1960s as Wild Bill’s, North ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ’s original honky-tonk, and welcomed performers like Waylon Jennings. Since being purchased by the Herndon family and christened Handlebar J in 1975, this family-owned institution has become known for its lip-smacking BBQ and live music courtesy of local musicians and the Herndon Brothers band.
Want to experience more of ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ’s Western side? Download our Western Guide here.