It wasn’t just golddiggers that were attracted to Wickenburg. Because of the area’s scenic views, temperate climate, and authentic Wild West charm, dozens of guest ranches sprang up in the area in the early 1900’s, making Wickenburg the “Dude Ranch Capital of the World.”

From 1926 to 1965, Monte Vista Ranch was one of the most popular working guest ranches, attracting presidents, movie stars

and people from the Midwest, the East Coast and as far away as Europe.

The Western ambience of Wickenburg that made it so popular then still thrives today.

Downtown Wickenburg has a historic Frontier Street that looks like a Hollywood set, a legendary Wishing Well (your wish will be granted; but you’ll never tell the truth again), and a Jail Tree, to which prisoners at one time were chained in lieu of imprisonment.