Superior
There’s a feeling you get when a unique opportunity has just passed you by; that something (or someplace) extraordinary is tugging at the back of your mind, waiting to be discovered. Superior, AZ is that place. Tucked into the breathtaking backdrop of the Pinal Mountains along U.S. 60, Superior is home to some of Arizona’s most beautiful trail systems, inspirational scenery and a community profoundly committed to its next generation.
As you walk through town, it is not uncommon to see local residents chatting along Main Street, congregating at Little League games or socializing over a cool beverage in the park. Each person in the community feels a sense of ownership and dedication to contributing to positive growth for Superior. Those who have lived in the town for generations are known to be strong-willed, adaptive, and tenacious; having always worked together to build up their community despite having very few resources to do so. Superior is a place of peace with a sense of security and an air of ambition that inspires and energizes all who visit.
How To Use
Use this interactive itinerary to build your trip! Each category recommends a number of stops to help you get the fullest experience during your visit. Simply hover over any photo for a brief description then click the circle to add a listing to your itinerary (click again to remove it). Once you've completed your itinerary, enter your email address and click submit to have it delivered straight to your inbox. Happy traveling!
Arts & Culture (Recommended up to 2)
Superior is a place where history is celebrated through art. When you visit Superior, you’ll find a plethora of outlets for artistic representation of Arizona’s history and the beauty of our heritage. Whether you’re into art galleries or antiquing, Superior has a variety of options to appreciate the Arts.
Kay Gallery boasts a large variety of artistic styles and pieces created by regional artisans. Owner Deborah Kay fell in love with Superior while scouting for a new film studio location. Come in and get inspired to explore Superior
Kelli and Clint Elliott have transformed a renovated building from 1917 into an eclectic shop of antiques in Superior, AZ. Both owners are passionate about local history so make sure to save time to chat during your visit.
Rolling Rock Gallery features unique gifts, toys, and art. Most of the art in our store is made by local artists. If you are visiting Superior make sure you stop by this store.
A local favorite for flowers and gifts, Rose’s Roses also acts as a collective, with (12) 12x8 stores filled with local artisan creations at amazing prices. Rose’s also offers a unique outside venue for small events and family gatherings.
The Bob Jones Museum run by the Superior Historical Society is the former house of Bob Jones, Arizona’s 6th governor and is filled with local memorabilia that highlight life in an Arizona copper mining town.
The Wild Cow Gallery features the art of many local artists. Art pieces include folklore paintings, wood sculptures, jewelry, multi-media arts and more. Proceeds help the Cactus Moon Foundation, which supports regional local artists.
With a roof crafted from 1800 beer cans, this 134 sq. foot museum exceeds capacity at three people. Housing the world’s largest Apache Tear, the museum’s collection of oddities is definitely worth the selfie as you journey through Superior!
History, Heritage & Tradition (Recommended up to 4)
Superior is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! With destination locations like the Boyce Thompson Arboretum and an expansive landscape offering beautiful vistas along hiking, biking and rock climbing paths, Superior is one of Arizona’s best locations to experience the outdoors.
The Bob Jones Museum run by the Superior Historical Society is the former house of Bob Jones, Arizona’s 6th governor and is filled with local memorabilia that highlight life in an Arizona copper mining town.
Wine & Dine (Recommended up to 4)
In a town of fewer than 3000 people, you may not expect to find a wide variety of food options; but in Superior, everything is a surprise! Within an hour of Phoenix, Superior may be one of the best-kept secrets for dining experiences across the state. From fresh food markets to unique dining spaces featuring menus full of family recipes, Superior is a fantastic place to get a tasty meal.
Located in historic downtown Superior, the Superior Barmacy has been around since 1913. The Barmacy patio was the original location of the Superior theater and sits at a slope replicating the theater floor. Come in for dinner and drinks!
A great place to stop for breakfast or lunch, Buckboard City Cafe also hosts the World’s Smallest Museum on site. Try the biscuits and gravy and then you (and no more than one friend) can check out all that the museum has to offer!
A local favorite, De Marco’s Italian restaurant serves pasta, pizza, subs, Philly cheesesteaks, and burgers with fresh bread prepared daily. Grab a glass of wine or beer and don’t miss the cannolis, cheesecake, or tiramisu for dessert!
If you’re hunting for the best-hidden gem pizza, Edwardo’s is the place. With a pizza selection, crisp salads and subs that will make your mouth water, you may have to visit more than once to try all Edwardo’s has to offer.
his new Farmers Market will be a treat for those who enjoy local food and culture. It’s open 4–8p on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month. After getting your fill of market goodness, go enjoy the beer garden and local boutiques on Main St.
With seasonal homemade flavors like Prickly Pear ice cream, this is definitely the place in town to stop to satisfy your sweet tooth. Or arrive with an appetite! Felicia’s also offers menu items like shrimp cocktails, street tacos, and posole.
This historic hotel has been everything from a pharmacy to a hair salon. Today it serves as a restaurant and hotel. Serving up breakfast, The Ladle is located in the Magma Hotel; first constructed in 1912. It boasts a courtyard patio, a “copper” ceiling replica of the original, and an ornate bar claimed from the movie set of “John Wick 2.”
Acclaimed chef and Superior native Lucy Wing traveled the country writing about food, returning with the flavors of Southeast Asia. The menu includes Chinese-style BBQ pork and ribs smoked on-site, Japanese teriyaki, and Korean beef wraps.
A family-run bakery since 57’, Juan’s uses fresh bread recipes that are over 120 years old, and specializes in Mexican Pink Cookies and raisin bread. A different specialty bread is offered daily including empanadas, conchas and cream puffs.
Los Hermanos is known state-wide and beyond for their homemade tortillas, and this Superior staple is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Serving up cold beers and authentic Mexican cuisine, Los Hermanos is unassuming and delicious.
Main Street Food Court has a newly remodeled look. Come to downtown main street and enjoy a little picnic or just take in the beautiful colors, flowers, and the waterfall. If you have a Tesla you can plug in while you enjoy what view.
This new Superior business is a great place to get a novel experience with a nostalgic touch. The restaurant delivers the experience of the old diners you could find throughout small towns that served as places to gather and enjoy traditional meals.
There is always something going on at Porter's. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Porter’s has been a keystone of downtown Historic Superior for years. Pop in for Thursday karaoke, live music nights, or a beverage from the full bar.
Save Money Market has been a family-owned and operated local grocer and market in Superior since the 1920s. Check out their famous meat selection and take home a box of the best T-bones you never expected to find in downtown Superior.
This spot is a great place to stop for coffee during your stroll through the town. Whether you choose to sit inside and browse the marketplace or sit outside and soak in the views, you're sure to have a great cup of coffee and tasty meal!
With a trendy patio and charming interior, you'll enjoy the atmosphere almost as much as the food! The Silver King Smokehouse has an impressive menu of perfectly cooked meats and tasty drinks.
This is one of the best wine tasting rooms in the region. Their vineyard in Young, AZ provides some of the finest wine to the state. Stop by Bruzzi Tasting Room in Superior for a brunch, wine tasting, shopping at the farm stand, or view the world class art gallery!
Outdoor Sports & Recreation (Recommended up to 2)
Superior is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! With destination locations like the Boyce Thompson Arboretum and an expansive landscape offering beautiful vistas along hiking, biking and rock climbing paths, Superior is one of Arizona’s best locations to experience the outdoors.
Box 8 Ranch is a well-groomed 25-acre campground and RV park with views of Picketpost Mountain and Apache Leap. Spend the day poolside, enjoy trails, and more. Hosts Chris and Traci preserve history while combining it with modern amenities
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located in the Sonoran Desert and is home to a variety of lush desert gardens, which all have a considerable beauty for you to experience in the spring, summer, fall and winter.
LOST is a trail project that, when completed, will connect Superior to the Arizona Trail. The trail consists of three segments; the desert trail, urban trail through Superior and the Canyon Segment through the beautiful Queen Creek Canyon.
The Montana Mountain Loop offers 35 miles through mountains, along narrow trails, with multiple river crossings and an amazing pine tree forest at the top. The last few miles of the loop offer an exhilarating driving experience too.
Picketpost Mountain Trail is approx 4 miles, out and back, known for beautiful wildflower blooms, incredible views and an out-of-place mailbox found at the top. This trail is rated as difficult and hiking equipment is highly encouraged.
Queen Creek Canyon is an outdoor recreation area located four miles east of Superior, Az. It includes the Oak Flat campground, Apache Leap, and Devils Canyon. This area is a rock climber’s dream, with 1000 routes waiting to be explored.
Skate Park is a great location if you want to take your kids to ride their skateboards or bikes. It is located right next to the town pool so if you get hot you can go for a swim in the summertime.
Take in the sites on an in-town golf cart tour, or get up and personal with the beauty of this historic mining town in a lifted off road jeep; both coupled with one of our knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Local Lodging (Recommended up to 2)
With all the outdoor beauty, quirky community attractions, and delicious restaurants visitors can’t miss when exploring Superior; visitors should plan to spend a few nights in one of the unique locally-owned lodging options in the community.
Box 8 Ranch is a well-groomed 25-acre campground and RV park with views of Picketpost Mountain and Apache Leap. Spend the day poolside, enjoy trails, and more. Hosts Chris and Traci preserve history while combining it with modern amenities
This neat bed and breakfast are perfect for visitors exploring the wonders of this quirky community. Enjoy a truly unique and welcoming stay with local artists Charles and David. Call or text them for more information and to book your stay. Tel: 602-618-3055
This historic hotel has been everything from a pharmacy to a hair salon. Today it serves as a restaurant and hotel. Serving up breakfast, The Ladle is located in the Magma Hotel; first constructed in 1912. It boasts a courtyard patio, a “copper” ceiling replica of the original, and an ornate bar claimed from the movie set of “John Wick 2.”