Howdy, What's Going On? 15 Things To Do In Apache Junction, Arizona

1. Salt River

As the name suggests, the river flows over a surface with heavy salt deposits, not far from where the White River and the Black River meet. The lower part of the 200-mi (322-km) long Salt River, accessible from Apache Junction, is popular for swimming and water tubing - activities that favor the adventurous. If you are not confident to engage in the fun-floating adventure yet, you can either start enlisting your friends’ help for private lessons or canvassing companies for organized tours.

Salt River

Address: Apache Junction, Arizona

2. Commemorative Air Force Museum

Are you fond of flying? Your list of must-see places in Arizona should include Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Museum, which is one of the world’s largest units. About 20 minutes from Apache Junction, this museum offers guests many interesting finds. You will get a closer look at several models of real-life warplanes on display. If you wish, you can even experience flying in them! Check out their official website for flight schedules, and you might just be in time for a one-of-a-kind flying experience in a North American T-6 Texan, an aircraft used back in World War II.

Commemorative Air Force Museum

Address: 2017 N Greenfield Rd, Mesa, AZ 85215, United States

Website: Commemorative Air Force Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed from Sun - Tue)

Price: From 15 USD

3. Usery Mountain Regional Park

When in Arizona, a state known for its unique geography, awaken your outdoorsy spirit by going to beautiful parks, like the action-filled Usery Mountain Regional Park. The place is a combination of hills and flat deserts with well-maintained facilities for different outdoor activities. Camping, archery, shooting, hiking, biking, walking—pick your kind of adventure in here. You may even bring your horse and practice your trot at this park. Likewise, kids will enjoy exploring the easy trails.

Usery Mountain Regional Park

Address: 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207, United States

Opening hours: 5am - 8pm (daily)

4. Superstition Mountain Museum

If you’re wondering what to do in Apache Junction, then pay a visit to Superstition Mountain Museum. It’s focus is to preserve the legends and history behind its namesake. Within its walls, you’ll find artifacts, folklore and historical details of Superstition Mountain. A decent-sized museum with a great gift shop to mark your visit here.

Superstition Mountain Museum

Address: 4087 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Website: Superstition Mountain Museum

5. Silly Mountain Park

Silly Mountain Park is a mere 2.4 mi (3.86 km) away from the city, making it one of the most conveniently located attractions near Apache Junction. What’s interesting here? Well, it gives you some pretty picturesque views of the Phoenix Valley and has a pretty moderate hiking trail. Look out for the abandoned mine that’s pretty near the mountain’s peak!

Silly Mountain Park

Address: Highway US 60 & Silly Mountain Road, Apache Junction, AZ

6. OK Corral

Horseback riding’s never been better! All you need to equip yourself with is a bottle of water and a clear-shot camera, and you’re set for your horseback-riding tour with the company. OK Corral’s been in the business since 1968, with some of the best reins and horses you’ll find on this end of Arizona. Check out the Goldfield and Superstition Mountains with these cowboys for a change!

OK Corral

Address: 5470 E Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Website: OK Corral

7. The Handlebar Pub and Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

A great place for good old American food, served with a smile. The beer on tap is extensive, and as far as food goes, it even caters for gluten-free diners. Give the peppercorn burger a go, as well as their steak sandwich!

The Handlebar Pub and Grill

Address: 650 Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85120

Facebook: The Handlebar Pub and Grill

8. Lost Dutchman State Park

A scenic view of the desert is what you’d get at this state park, with huge Suguaro cacti on every other end. Book ahead for a chance to camp at this excellent place, and gaze at its wonders at night too. If you’re a photographer (or aspiring to be one), this is the place you’ll wanna be to get that once-in-a-lifetime snap.

Lost Dutchman State Park

Address: 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Website: Lost Dutchman State Park

9. Superstition Zipline

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Apache, then how about riding a zipline for no more than 12 USD per person? The zipline was created by Stan Checketts, the brainchild behind other famous thrill-inducing rides like the VooDoo Zipline of Las Vegas. The entire line runs for close to a quarter mile (0.40 km), and promises to exhilarate your senses and wow your eyes.

Superstition Zipline LLC

Address: 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Website: Superstition Zipline LLC

10. Goldfield Ghost Town

Goldfield Ghost Town is one of the most popular Apache Junction attractions. This ghost town gives you the opportunity to pan for your own gold, and then gives you a ride atop its sole narrow gauge train. You’d even be able to witness what it would be like to be caught in the middle of a gunfight, in true Old West style. The mining town has been reconstructed to give you the best theatrical experience, with activities to cater for every age in a family. Stop over at the saloon for lunch before you head on to your next destination in Apache Junction.

Goldfield Ghost Town

Address: 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Website: Goldfield Ghost Town

11. Arizona Renaissance Festival

One of the top festivals in Arizona, the Arizona Renaissance Festival takes place just 7 miles (11.26 km) east of Apache Junction. It’s been an ongoing festivity for 3 decades now, and is open daily from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm. Fancy looking at a jousting tournament? Drop by the King’s Tournament Arena, where it takes place 3 times every day! The Festival Marketplace sells some handmade items such as blown glass ornaments and high-end leather goods. Take a close look at the Stage Schedule to plan your day here, for you’ll be spending a whole number of hours experiencing life, the Renaissance way.

Arizona Renaissance Festival

Address: 12601 US-60, Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

Website: Arizona Renaissance Festival

12. Apache Trail Tours

The oldest tour company awaits you at Route 88, with a medley of 4 by 4 adventures, the great Apache trail and even gold panning for your activity list. It does help that your drivers are knowledgeable, and are able to tell you by heart the intricacies of the mountains, the town and even which shop would suit what you want. Learn about the plants in the desert environment and take pictures like there’s no tomorrow!

Apache Trail Tours

Address: 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Website: Apache Trail Tours

13. Barleens Arizona Opry

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Barleens Arizona Opry has its roots traced back to its forefathers, Albert Loofburrow and Charles Barleen, both of whom were well-regarded Kansas dance fiddlers. The primary focus of the opry today is to bring entertainment and good food to its community and its visitors. There are many performers on its list today, which includes Barbara and Brenda Barleen, Johnny Sanchez and Kurt Johnson. The shows are reasonably priced, and the quality of showmanship is exceptional.

Barleens Arizona Opry

Address: 2275 Old West Hwy, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Website: Barleens Arizona Opry

14. Canyon Lake

Located in Tonto National Forest, which is easily accessible from Apache Junction, Canyon Lake is a beautiful reservoir that is perfect for a day out in nature. A variety of activities can be enjoyed here, including swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, scuba diving, bird watching, and more. The lake is a beautiful area that offers nature trails, a sandy beach, picnic areas, a marina to launch your boat, campgrounds, a designated swimming area, and more such amazing facilities.

Canyon Lake

Address: Arizona, USA

Website: Canyon Lake

15. Saguaro Lake

Another amazing reservoir in Tonto National Forest, Saguaro Lake is situated on Salt River. Surrounded by deep canyons of Sonoran Desert, this lake offers breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor activities to visitors. Deriving its name from the famous Saguaro cactus that dots its banks, the lake is popular for boating, fishing and cruising. With the right fishing permits, you can catch various types of bass, catfish, and carp here. Hiking, kayaking, jet-skiing, sailing and camping can also be enjoyed at Saguaro Lake.

Saguaro Lake

Address: Maricopa County, Arizona, USA

Website: Saguaro Lake

Price: 8 USD onwards

Have an amazing time in Apache Junction

Yes, you’ll be starstruck by the time you complete your travels in Apache Junction. It’s a tick off your travel list that you’ll love, and want to visit again!