Downtown Florence has one of the state's most authentic historic districts and the surrounding countryside is replete with scenic areas and recreational opportunities - the Gila River Riparian area, abundant wildlife, and pristine deserts. Florence played an important role in Arizona's rich history - silver mining, ranching, and cotton production.

More than one person has called Florence a "Tombstone without the OK Corral." The truth is, though, Florence had it's own celebrated gun fight, the "Duel at the Tunnel Saloon." At least a dozen major films were shot in Florence, most notably Murphy's Romance and John Wayne's Quiet Man. The actor Tom Mix was killed in an auto accident about 17 miles south of town, there is a marker near the spot where he died and a large collection of Tom Mix memorabilia is available at the Pinal County Historical Society Museum.