VISITOR GUIDE
The area around Globe and Miami is rich in both Wild West and Native American history. Visitors can step back in time to the Old Gila County Jail and Sheriff’s Office, or even further to the native American ruins of Besh-Ba-Gowah. In Miami, there are many antique stores to be found, as well as a wide range of exhibits held within the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum. With natural wonders like the Salt River Canyon only a short drive away, Globe and Miami provide the perfect location for discovering the heart of the West.
BESH-BA-GOWAH
Once a grand and thriving pueblo built by the Salado culture, the ruins of Besh-Ba-Gowah comprise over 200 rooms and occupy an imposing location overlooking Pinal Creek. A museum holds many of the artifacts unearthed during the various excavations of the site, and a botanical garden and gift shop add further enjoyment to the experience.
BULLION PLAZA CULTURAL CENTER & MUSEUM
With its grand neoclassical style architecture, the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum in Miami offers a wide range of historical exhibits. Local mining, Mexican and Native American cultures, Ranching and Military are just some of the many subjects that are represented.
OLD DOMINION HISTORIC MINE PARK
Set among the former workings of the Old Dominion Mine, the park offers a fascinating insight into the industry that served such a vital role in the development of Globe and Miami. Many vintage items of mining machinery are on display. The park offers a number of hiking trails, as well as a children’s play area.
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
Downtown Globe has plenty to see, with its grand courthouse and jail that once housed some of the territories most notorious outlaws. There are antique stores to browse and cafes to relax in, even a saloon where the spirit of the Wild West still lingers.
GILA COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Occupying what was once the local Mine Rescue Station, the Gila County Historical Museum is a great place to explore when visiting Globe. Among its many displays are ones devoted to the area’s mining industry, ranching, Native American culture and famous political figures who hailed from the city. Its extensive historical records make it a favorite destination for those interested in genealogy.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
SALT RIVER CANYON
One of the hidden gems of the West, the Salt River Canyon offers a magical lansdscape of towering rock formations and majestic saguaros. Spend some time tubing or rafting, or just enjoy the scenery and feast your camera on some of the spectacular scenery that has caused the area to become known as the Second Grand Canyon.
ROOSEVELT LAKE
A short drive north of Globe is Roosevelt Lake, a scenic body of water that was formed by the harnessing of the Salt River by the Roosevelt Dam. The lake provides a stunning location for boating, swimming, fishing and just general outdoor R&R. There are a number of excellent campsites along its shores.
DEVIL’S CANYON & THE OLD HIGHWAY
The drive along Highway 60 between Globe-Miami and Superior is a feast for the eyes and the camera, passing through the towering rock formations of Devil’s Canyon. At the Queen Creek Tunnel, you can explore the orginal version of the route built in the 1920s, known as the Million Dollar Highway. The Claypool Tunnel and the old Queen Creek Bridge are just some of the places of interest you will find nearby.
BOYCE THOMPSON ARBORETUM
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, look no further than Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Located in nearby Superior, this stunning botanical garden is home to a diverse range of plant life from around the world. Whether you’re a keen gardener, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this beautiful botanical garden is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
THE APACHE TRAIL
Formerly an old stagecoach route, the Apache Trail runs through forty miles of some of the most spectacular scenery the West has to offer. It loosely follows the course of the Salt River from Roosevelt Lake to Apache Junction, passing through the majestic Superstition Mountains. The small settlement of Tortilla Flat is well worth a stop, if just to sample its famous prickly pear gelato! Note: The route is currently blocked by rockfalls at around the halfway point, so it cannot be fully navigated.
