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Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc. gift shop in Phoenix, AZ
Photo: Lillie Echevarria
View of Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc. in Phoenix, AZ
Photo: Sandra Heart
View of Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc. in Phoenix, AZ
Photo: Timothy Hill

Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc.

4.6(14,856 reviews)$$Activity
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Younger elementary kids are captivated by the hands-on gold panning and train rides, while older children appreciate the historical mine tours and Old West atmosphere. Toddlers can still enjoy the train and walking the dusty streets, though the mine tours may be too long for them.

About

Step back in time at this authentic Old West ghost town nestled at the foot of the legendary Superstition Mountains! Kids can try their hand at gold panning, ride a narrow-gauge railroad, explore historic buildings, and experience what life was like in an 1890s mining town,all just 45 minutes from Phoenix.

Highlights

  • Gold panning experience where kids actually find real gold flakes to take home
  • Narrow-gauge railroad ride through the desert landscape
  • Guided underground mine tours showing authentic mining equipment
  • Live Old West gunfight reenactments on weekends
  • Historic buildings to explore including a saloon, blacksmith shop, and general store

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early (right at 10 AM opening) to beat the Arizona heat, especially in summer months,the town offers limited shade and you'll be walking outdoors.
  2. 2.Bring cash for gold panning ($10-15) and the train ride, as some activities are separately priced from general admission.
  3. 3.Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven dirt paths and bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
  4. 4.Don't miss the gunfight shows on weekends,check the schedule when you arrive and plan your visit around show times.
  5. 5.Let kids explore the gift shops along Main Street for inexpensive Old West souvenirs like toy sheriff badges and rock candy.

Best Time to Visit

Visit October through April during Arizona's cooler months, ideally on weekday mornings when crowds are lighter. Weekend afternoons can get busy with special events and performances. Avoid June through August when temperatures can exceed 105°F.

What to Know

Admission to the town is free; you only pay for specific activities like mine tours, gold panning, and train rides (typically $8-15 per person). Parking is free. Limited food options available at the on-site restaurant and ice cream shop, so consider bringing snacks and water.

Seasonal Notes

Best visited during fall, winter, and spring (October-April) when temperatures are comfortable. Summer visits are possible but extremely hot,go early in the day. Special Halloween and holiday events often scheduled seasonally. The venue is open year-round except major holidays.

Nearby Eats

The Mining Camp Restaurant & Trading Post (about 5 miles away) offers family-style all-you-can-eat meals in a rustic setting. For quicker options, head to Apache Junction proper (10 minutes away) for chains like Cracker Barrel or local Mexican restaurants.

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