If you’re captivated by Arizona’s natural treasures and rich mining history, there’s no better way to explore than through the state’s mining tours and museums. From minerals and gems to operating mine sites, these experiences showcase the essential role mining plays in Arizona’s economy—and in the materials we use every day.

For visitors, these destinations offer memorable, hands-on ways to discover Arizona’s past, present, and future. For educators, they provide meaningful field trip opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world science, technology, and careers—bringing mining to life for students of all ages.

One highlight is the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center and Mine Tours, where you can experience the scale of an active mine—one of the few public tours of its kind in the country—a point of pride for communities across Arizona.