
Goldfields Mining Centre
Step back in time at Goldfields Mining Centre, experiencing the thrill of gold panning and the Wild West spirit. A historical adventure awaits!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better show viewing

Goldfields Mining Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better show viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Goldfields Mining Centre, experiencing the thrill of gold panning and the Wild West spirit. A historical adventure awaits!
"The guides are fantastic, very enthusiastic and easy to talk to!"

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking on gravel and some hilly terrain. :athletic_shoe: You'll want good support!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Arizona sun can be intense. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for your visit. :sunwithface:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gold Panning Experience
Designated panning area
Try your luck panning for gold flakes – what you find, you keep! A truly hands-on piece of history.

Mine Tour
Underground mine
Descend into the earth to learn about the challenging life of early miners. Informative and atmospheric.

Live Shows & Reenactments
Town square
Experience Wild West shootouts and historical reenactments that bring the ghost town to life. Fun for all ages.

Chinese Camp
Historical settlement area
Explore the preserved settlement of Chinese miners, offering a glimpse into their unique contributions and struggles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gold Panning Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking on gravel and some hilly terrain. :athletic_shoe: You'll want good support!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Arizona sun can be intense. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for your visit. :sunwithface:
💰 Gold Panning Value
The $35pp tour includes gold panning, and you keep what you find! Worth the price for the experience. :moneybag:
📅 Check Show Times
Live reenactments and shows happen on weekends. Plan your visit to catch these energetic performances! :performing_arts:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking on gravel and some hilly terrain. :athletic_shoe: You'll want good support!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Arizona sun can be intense. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for your visit. :sunwithface:
💰 Gold Panning Value
The $35pp tour includes gold panning, and you keep what you find! Worth the price for the experience. :moneybag:
📅 Check Show Times
Live reenactments and shows happen on weekends. Plan your visit to catch these energetic performances! :performing_arts:
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Walk
A self-guided walk offers lots to see, but consider doing it clockwise for a better flow. :walking:
📸 Great Photo Ops
Beautiful views of Superstition Mountain and historic buildings make for fantastic photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Goldfields Mining Centre for its engaging historical reenactments and the fun, interactive gold panning experience. The knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guides are frequently highlighted as a major positive, making the history come alive. While some find the terrain a bit challenging, the overall sentiment is that it's a worthwhile and enjoyable stop for a taste of the past.
"Loved the day out here, had a walk around the Chinese camp, tour, gold panning, and a beer at the bar. Our tour guide was fantastic, he was very enthusiastic and easy to talk to. He showed us how to gold pan (we didn't find any) and we chatted with him afterwards too."
Justin Collins
"Random find.
We stopped off while traveling somewhere else. Did the tour and gold panning. It was $35pp. Definitely worth it.
It was something nice to do. The guide was great. Lots of things to look at. There is a self guided walk you can do . It's quite hilly and lots of gravel though, but loads to see. Recommend doing it clockwise, not anticlockwise like we did!!"
Lauren Whyle
"Amazing location and people. Loved the experience, even found a bit of gold! Would highly recommend."
Gareth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goldfields Mining Centre is located in Apache Junction, Arizona, near the Superstition Mountains. It's easily accessible by car, typically a scenic drive from Phoenix or Mesa. Many visitors stop here while traveling between Queenstown and Wanaka in New Zealand, making it a convenient pit stop.
Yes, ample parking is usually available for visitors at the Goldfields Mining Centre, making it convenient for those arriving by car.
Absolutely! Goldfields Mining Centre is a popular destination for day trips from Phoenix and surrounding areas in Arizona, and a common stop for travelers in New Zealand's South Island.
From Phoenix, take US-60 E towards Superior, then follow signs for Goldfield Ghost Town. In New Zealand, it's located near Cromwell, accessible via State Highway 6.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Goldfields Mining Centre, especially in Arizona. It's best accessed by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the town itself is often free, but specific tours like the mine tour and gold panning typically have a fee, often around $35 per person. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing.
While you can often purchase tickets for tours on-site, booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekends or during peak seasons, to guarantee your spot.
Operating hours can vary, but the town is generally open daily. Specific attractions like tours and shows may have set schedules, so it's best to check their website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
Often, combo tickets are available that include multiple attractions like the mine tour and gold panning, offering better value. Inquire on-site or check their website for package deals.
The general access to the 'ghost town' area is usually free, allowing you to wander and soak in the atmosphere. Fees apply for specific tours and activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can pan for gold (and keep what you find!), take a guided mine tour, watch live reenactments and shootouts, explore the historic Chinese camp, and enjoy the scenery.
Yes, highly recommended guided tours are available, often focusing on the mine and the history of the area. Guides are frequently praised for being knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
Expect lively Wild West reenactments, including shootouts and historical demonstrations, especially on weekends.
Yes, it's a great family-friendly destination with activities like gold panning and live shows that kids usually enjoy.
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the tours, shows, and explore the grounds. If you plan on doing multiple activities, you might want to set aside half a day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options available, including Panners Bar & Kitchen which offers pizza, beer, and cocktails. You can also find snacks and refreshments within the town.
You can find casual dining options like pizza, burgers, and drinks. Some reviews mention enjoying the food and atmosphere at the onsite bar.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy in designated areas, though purchasing from onsite vendors supports the attraction.
Yes, Panners Bar & Kitchen is located beside the Goldfields Mining Centre, offering a place to relax with a drink and food.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but casual dining spots often have some basic choices. It's best to inquire directly with the food vendors on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire ghost town offers great photo opportunities, from the historic buildings and mine entrances to the scenic views of Superstition Mountain. The Chinese camp also provides unique backdrops.
Photography policies can vary for the mine tour. It's best to ask your guide at the beginning of the tour if photos are permitted inside the mine.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the public areas of the ghost town. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and attractions to ensure safety and respect for visitors. Check with management for specific drone policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided tour, as the guides are often praised for being engaging and entertaining for all ages. The self-guided walk also provides plenty to see, but ensure kids have comfortable shoes for navigating the terrain.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for combo tickets that might offer savings on multiple attractions. Packing your own snacks or a picnic can also help keep food costs down.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the best lighting. Be mindful of tour group movements and show times to capture candid moments and dynamic action shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gold Rush History
Gabriel Read's discovery in 1861 near Lawrence ignited the Otago gold rush, leading to the establishment of settlements and mining operations like those found at Goldfields. The center showcases the hardships and triumphs of these early pioneers through preserved structures, artifacts, and interactive experiences. It's a tangible connection to a pivotal chapter in New Zealand's history.
Interactive Gold Panning
The best part? Anything you find, you get to keep! While finding significant amounts of gold is rare, the thrill of discovery, however small, is a memorable part of the visit. It’s an activity that’s both educational and entertaining, offering a tangible reward for your efforts.
Exploring the Ghost Town
In New Zealand, the Goldfields Mining Centre near Cromwell preserves the atmosphere of the gold rush settlements. Visitors can wander through the grounds, imagining the bustling activity of miners and settlers. The Chinese camp is a particularly poignant area, highlighting the contributions and living conditions of Chinese miners.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit