Payson, Arizona

Payson, Arizona, United States

Boasting of the grand Mogollon Rim and peppered with lakes and rivers, Payson is Arizona's diamond in the rough. Camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, and explorations remain the town's biggest attractions, luring visitors year after year who seek a swift escape to the wide, wild west.

Population:

15,520

Currency:

$1 U.S. Dollar = 100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

911

Opening Hours:

General opening hours for stores are 10am until 9pm.

Newspapers:

Payson Roundup

The City

Payson’s beginnings as a settlement are far humbler than its natural beginnings. Established as a town in 1884, it was named after Senator Levi Joseph Payson—under whose influence the first post office was established. Shortly thereafter the “world's oldest continuous” rodeo was held, which has been held annually since.

An elevation of 5,000 feet lends a mild climate to Payson, allowing for outdoor activities through the seasons. Snow in the winter makes way for cross-country skiing and snowboarding while warm springs, summers and falls bring swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, hunting, and the like. The world’s largest ponderosa pine tree stands are found in the Tonto National Forest, rim lakes sparkling nearby and streams flow with trout.

Do & See

Much like its neighbor in Cave Creek, the Payson area is rife with natural formations of rock and water. This gives way to a splendid exploration of Payson's trails and lakes. There are also educational opportunities for the whole family.

Dining

Payson possesses a surprising variety of cuisine for a smaller town. The town impresses with steaks, Mexican, New American, and even Thai restaurants. Choose from a succulent selection below.

Cafes

Quite a few of Payson's cafes are nestled along Beeline Highway or along the creeks of the Mogollon Rim. Choose from cafes and diners. Small town smiles accompany homemade meals in Payson.