Each March, the iconic Cowgirl Up! exhibition and sale arrives, highlighting contemporary works by female artists in the Western genre. The museum started the show to shine a spotlight on the often undervalued work of female artists — the other half of the West — and it has reached national fame. The collection of paintings and sculptures fills more than four galleries, offering something for both savvy collectors and those looking to buy their first piece of art. Expect to see serene landscapes, rugged horses and whimsical flowers at every turn. Both the exhibit and sale together are the museum’s signature fundraiser, and buyers are encouraged to leave their purchases on display through the summer for visitors to enjoy. No matter when you visit, the history contained in the basement level of the museum provides a step back in time. Envision the TV show “Little House on the Prairie”… the general store, the chapel and the interior of the town inn. During the school year, fourth graders fill these historic and interactive displays. The detail is incredible, and it’s fun to see if you can spot a collectible you may have seen in your grandmother’s house as you take it all in. There’s also some unexpected retail therapy. For the ladies, make time to stop in Serape Bleu, a vibrant clothing and gift boutique owned by Theresa Dunn with the tagline “sweetness for your soul.” When Dunn moved to Wickenburg in 2013, she brought her love of fashion, shopping and Arizona style. The shop is filled with breezy dresses, Western-inspired tops, jeans in all shades and, of course, boots and turquoise jewelry. There is a darling kids’ section, baby gifts (think tiny moccasins) and locally made gifts that any hostess would appreciate. Looking for some authentic Western gear to add to your closet? Mosey on over to the Double H Custom Hat Company. Wickenburg is a walking town where you can discover finds in several antique stores and little shops filled with pottery, vintage finds and unique Western décor. If lunch or early dinner is on your mind, The Local Press Sandwich Bar and Onery Hog BBQ are nearby, and Cary’s Pizza is two blocks away. For entertainment, the historic Sahuaro Theater has recently been refurbished, Maynard Dixon, “Cowboy and Pony, Sandhill Camp,” 1921. Oil on canvas, Collection of the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, Wickenburg, AZ. Gift of Harriet and Edson Spencer. “Doug Hyde: Stone Carvings, Bronze Castings.” December 17, 2022 - March 5, 2023. “Evening Star” bronze. Collection of the artist. Photo coutesy of Medicine Man Gallery, Inc. FROM THE ROAD

and it screens both classics and first-run films. But the fun doesn’t need to end there. The Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts is a short drive from downtown. The Webb Center presents Western performances, as well as other genres. “There are so many unexpected things going on here,” said Cathy Weiss, the Webb Center’s CEO. Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives will kick Arts and culture, great shopping, incredible terrain — Wickenburg makes a wonderful getaway. For a truly Western experience, many guests opt for a dude ranch. Here are three: Flying E Ranch The Flying E Ranch is a must-visit if you want to appreciate breathtaking scenery and interact with genuine cowboys. Along with the horseback riding and other activities, the ranch serves excellent food, has comfortable rooms and features an outdoor stage where they program country music. flyingeranch.com Kay El Bar Guest Ranch One of the first dude ranches in Arizona, the ranch welcomed its first guests in 1926. Today’s guests can experience the same Western ambiance, sleeping in adobe-walled buildings, walking among stately trees and riding the same trails as those first guests from almost 100 years ago. kayelbar.com Rancho de Los Caballeros Celebrating 75 years of horses, hats and hospitality, this luxury dude ranch has something for everyone, from award-winning golf course to a peaceful spa and, of course, Western activities like horseback rides, nature hikes, trap/skeet shooting, archery and off-property Jeep tours. ranchodeloscaballeros.com THE RANGE HOME ON TRAVEL NOTES Desert Caballeros Western Museum: westernmuseum.org Serape Bleu: serapebleu.com Sahuaro Theater: saguarotheater.com Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts: dewpac.org Walks, Talks and Rodeo Events: outwickenburgway.com/special-events Theresa Dunn welcomes guests to Serape Bleu. Photo by Mark Lipczynski Photography Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE | 45