by Arizona may be best known for its breathtaking landscapes and desert sun, but it also holds a unique treasure: towns and places with names as colorful and curious as the state itself. Some are steeped in history, others born from legend, mistakes, or simple humor—but all of them have a story worth sharing. These 14 places are proof that Arizona has one of the most interesting maps in the country.
Ajo
Though it translates to “garlic” in Spanish, Ajo actually got its name from the Tohono O’odham word au’auho, meaning paint. Early Spanish-speaking miners shortened it to the more familiar-sounding “Ajo,” and the name stuck.
Bagdad
The origins of this central Arizona mining town are a bit mysterious. One theory says it was inspired by “Arabian Nights”; another suggests it came from a miner yelling “Bag, Dad!” while collecting ore with his father.
Chloride
Founded in 1863, this former boomtown was named for the silver chloride found in its surrounding hills. At its peak, it was the largest city in Mohave County.
Christmas
This now-quiet Gila County town got its festive name after a miner learned that a key land rights bill had passed—on Christmas Eve. He moved in the next day and dubbed the mine “Christmas,” hoping Santa would bring him a fortune.
Contention City
A true Wild West story: two mining partners had a falling out over ownership rights, leading to the town’s name. Later, the area was known for gunfights, stagecoach stops, and disputes that lived up to its contentious name.
Crown King
Named after the nearby Crowned King Mine, this rustic retreat northwest of Black Canyon City eventually dropped a syllable and became simply Crown King. Today, it’s a favorite weekend getaway.
Hope
When travelers bypassed the original town of Johannesburg, its residents moved and named their new home “Hope”—a reflection of their optimism for a better future in the new spot.
Nothing
Once home to just four residents, the tiny ghost town of Nothing may have been small, but it made a big impression. Its oddball name earned it a bit of fame before it eventually faded away.
Surprise
Founder Flora Mae Statler reportedly said she’d be “surprised if the town ever amounted to much.” Well, it did—becoming one of Arizona’s fastest-growing cities. The name stuck and adds charm to its story.
Three Way
Located near the New Mexico border, this tiny spot in eastern Arizona gets its name from the three roads—US 191, State Route 75, and SR 78—that meet there.
Top-of-the-World
Despite the lofty name, this community isn’t perched on a mountain peak. It likely owes its name to a 1920s recreation facility near an old highway alignment. Still, the name gives it a whimsical, sky-high charm.
Tortilla Flats
A favorite roadside stop along the Apache Trail, Tortilla Flats was named after nearby rock formations that resembled tortillas to early settlers.
Tuba City
Named by early LDS settlers in honor of Hopi leader Tuvi—though mispronounced as “Tuba.” Known to the Navajo as Tó Nanees’dizí (“tangled waters”), it remains an important part of Native American history and culture.
Wikieup
This Mohave County community takes its name from the Mohave word for “shelter.” Settlers chose it after finding a small native-built shelter near the site of the first post office.
Final Thoughts
These unusual and fascinating names reflect Arizona’s rich blend of Native American, Spanish, and pioneer influences. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just love local trivia, these names add character and charm to the already captivating Grand Canyon State.
