Show Low, Arizona
Show Low is a city located in Navajo County, Arizona, United States. With a population of around 11,000 residents, it serves as a hub for the White Mountains region, offering a variety of amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is situated at an elevation of 6,345 feet (1,934 meters) above sea level, which provides it with a cooler and more temperate climate compared to other parts of Arizona.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Show Low was founded in the late 19th century, with its unusual name originating from a poker game between two early settlers, Corydon E. Cooley and Marion Clark. The two men decided that there was not enough room for both of them in the community, so they agreed to play a card game to determine who would stay and who would leave. The game ended with Cooley drawing a card of the lowest value, saying, “Show low it is,” and thus the city’s name was born.
Apache Junction was officially incorporated as a city in 1978. Over the years, the city has grown and developed, with new businesses and residential communities springing up. Today, Apache Junction is a thriving city that offers a high quality of life for its residents while preserving its rich history and natural beauty.
Show Low is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous activities and attractions, such as:
– Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area: A beautiful lake surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife viewing.
– Show Low City Park: A large park featuring playgrounds, sports facilities, picnic areas, and walking trails.
– White Mountain Trail System: A network of over 200 miles of multi-use trails that cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, winding through the scenic White Mountains.
Show Low has a four-season climate with mild summers and cold winters. The city experiences relatively high precipitation compared to other parts of Arizona, receiving an average of 18 inches of rain and 25 inches of snow annually. Summer temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-80s °F (18-29°C), while winter temperatures can range from the low 20s to mid-40s °F (-6-7°C).
Show Low offers a variety of amenities for both residents and visitors, including shopping centers, restaurants, and accommodations. The city is home to several public schools and a campus of Northland Pioneer College, which provides higher education opportunities for the region.
Show Low is served by the Show Low Regional Airport, which offers daily flights to and from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The city is also accessible by car via US Highway 60 and Arizona State Route 260. Local transportation options include the Four Seasons Connection, a public transit service that operates within the city and connects to other nearby communities.
Website: https://www.showlowaz.gov/149/Transit
Show Low’s unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm make it an attractive destination for visitors and a welcoming community for residents.
Show Low’s real estate market offers a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The city’s relatively affordable housing, combined with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, make it an attractive location for both families and retirees. The average home price in Show Low is approximately $250,000, with a wide range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Arts and Culture
Show Low has a growing arts and culture scene, with several venues and events that showcase local talent and creativity:
– Show Low Historical Society Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Show Low and the surrounding region. It features exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that provide insight into the area’s past.
– White Mountain Community Theater: A volunteer-based theater group that produces plays, musicals, and other live performances for the community.
– Show Low Main Street Farmers’ Market & Art Walk: This seasonal event combines a farmers’ market with an art walk, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local art in a festive atmosphere.
Dining and Nightlife
Show Low offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. The city’s culinary scene includes American, Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisines, among others. Local favorites include Cattlemen’s Steakhouse & Lounge, Licano’s Mexican Food & Steakhouse, and The House – Restaurant and Catering.
Nightlife in Show Low is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a selection of bars and pubs providing entertainment and live music. Some popular spots include the Show Low Café, The Lodge Sports Bar & Grill, and The Bull Market at Concho Creek.
Festivals and Events
Show Low hosts several annual events and festivals that attract visitors and create a sense of community:
– Show Low Days: Held in June, this three-day event features a variety of family-friendly activities, including a parade, carnival rides, live entertainment, and a car show.
– Deuce of Clubs Drop: A unique New Year’s Eve celebration that involves dropping a giant, illuminated playing card (the deuce of clubs) from a crane in downtown Show Low, commemorating the city’s historic card game origin.
Clubs and Organizations
Show Low is home to various clubs and organizations that cater to different interests and provide opportunities for community engagement:
– Show Low Chamber of Commerce: This organization works to promote local businesses and foster economic development in Show Low and the surrounding area.
– White Mountain Audubon Society: A local chapter of the National Audubon Society, which focuses on bird watching, conservation, and environmental education in the White Mountains region.
Show Low’s blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and community spirit make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit. Its growing arts and culture scene, coupled with its diverse dining options and annual events, contribute to the city’s vibrant atmosphere and high quality of life.
Government Structure and Services
Show Low operates under a council-manager form of government. The city council consists of six council members and a mayor, who are elected at large by the citizens of Show Low. The council appoints a city manager who oversees the day-to-day operations of the city and implements policies set by the council.
City services provided by Show Low include law enforcement, fire protection, public works, water and wastewater, parks and recreation, and public transit. The city also has a public library that offers various resources, programs, and events for community members.
– Show Low City Council
– Show Low Police Department
– Show Low Fire District
– Show Low Public Library
Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives
Show Low is committed to protecting its natural resources and promoting sustainable practices. The city has implemented several initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable living:
– Recycling: Show Low offers curbside recycling services for residents, as well as recycling drop-off locations throughout the city.
– Water Conservation: The city encourages water conservation through public education and the promotion of water-efficient appliances, fixtures, and landscaping.
– Tree City USA: Show Low is a recognized Tree City USA community, an Arbor Day Foundation program that recognizes cities for their commitment to urban forestry and environmental stewardship.
Golf Courses
Show Low is home to several golf courses that cater to players of varying skill levels:
– Bison Golf Club: An 18-hole, par-71 championship golf course set within a picturesque landscape of ponderosa pines, rolling fairways, and water features.
– Silver Creek Golf Club: A challenging 18-hole, par-72 golf course that features well-maintained greens, bunkers, and beautiful mountain views.
Sports and Recreation
In addition to outdoor recreational activities like hiking, fishing, and golfing, Show Low offers various sports and recreation programs for community members:
– Show Low Family Aquatic Center: An outdoor public swimming pool that provides swimming lessons, water aerobics classes, and recreational swim sessions.
– Show Low Parks & Recreation: The city’s parks and recreation department manages parks, sports facilities, and recreational programs for residents of all ages.
Places to Stay
Show Low offers a range of accommodations for visitors, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Some popular options include the Hampton Inn & Suites Show Low-Pinetop, Best Western Paint Pony Lodge, and KC Motel.
Show Low’s diverse attractions, from its rich history and cultural offerings to its outdoor recreational opportunities, make it a rewarding destination for both residents and visitors. The city’s commitment to sustainability, coupled with its range of amenities and services, contribute to its high quality of life and its appeal as a place to call home.
