Ajo Attractions
The town of Ajo is two hours south of Phoenix, and just over two hours west of Tucson. Ajo was the birthplace of copper mining in Arizona, and is now a popular tourist destination and retirement community. It boasts a massive open pit copper mine, and is the gateway to the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.
Ajo Historical Society Museum
The Ajo Historical Society Museum is housed in the old Saint Catherine's Indian Mission and features exhibits on Old West history. Displays include a complete blacksmith shop, a dentist's office and an early print shop.
New Cornelia Open Pit Mine
The Ajo copper mines were opened in 1916 after the discovery of precious metals in the local mountains. Today the open pit extends for nearly two miles, and can be viewed from the Mine Lookout on Indian Village Road. There is a visitor center which contains a video and display of the mining operations.
Ajo Surroundings
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Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is home to this unique type of cactus. Hiking trails allow a close up look at the landscape which is particularly beautiful in the spring and early summer when the cactuses are in bloom.
Why, Arizona
The small town of Why is named for the Y-shaped junction of highways 85 and 86, south of Ajo.
