Overnight in Arivaca, Ariz.

The small town of Arivaca has a population of about 700. It’s home to artists, locals and wanderers from all walks of life.

From all my years on the road, one thing I know: It’s all about the people that make a place.

La Gitana Cantina is the only bar in town, but it’s worth a stop for the colorful locals and a bonfire under the stars. It began as a dance hall back in the 1880s, drawing the miners and ranchers from nearby who were probably a bit more interested in the brothel that happened to be next door.

If there were any bullet holes or bloodstains on the floor, I didn’t see them. Just some cold beers, many pours of tequila, and a whole lot of good people having a whole lot of good times. Stick around for a Wednesday night pool game.

If you go: La Gitana Cantina (17205 W. 5th St., Arivaca, Ariz.)