Perched atop the Superstition Mountains overlooking the East Valley, Tortilla Flat has served generations of Phoenix day-trippers. Following an ownership change in 2019, the quirky former mining town is reenergized as a family-friendly destination to learn about history, enjoy bar grub and experience its small-town – population: 6 – charm. It’s an Arizona original, from the dollar bills tacked onto the walls to the prickly pear fare. “When we first took over the property, there were a lot of things that were falling apart,” says co-owner and “mayor” Katie Ellering. “We said, ‘We’re going to take things into the 21st century while preserving the unique history of this place.’”
Photography by Angelina Aragon
3 Things To Do
A Museum
Take a step inside this replica of Tortilla Flat’s original schoolhouse, which accommodated 14 pupils, and learn the history of the town through photographs, stories and artifacts. Don’t forget to sign the guest book and make yourself a permanent part of the town’s story.
1 Main St. (address for all of Tortilla Flat)
480-984-1776, tortillaflataz.com/museum
B Live Music
Catch a live music performance by The Tortilla Flat Band and other musicians daily from 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. The group constantly cracks jokes and interacts with the crowd while playing everything from classic rock to traditional country.
C Mercantile
This gift shop adds a personal touch to its keepsakes. Beyond standard knickknacks, the shop offers hand-crafted jewelry, soaps, ornaments and more – all made by local artists and artisans exclusively for the store.
tortillaflataz.com/mercantile-gift-shop
3 Places To Eat
D Superstition Restaurant & Saloon
This Southwestern eatery is as much of a treat for your eyes as it is for your mouth. Every inch of this quirky restaurant’s walls is decorated with items donated to the town throughout the years. Try its famous 80-year-old recipe for Devil’s Chili with cornbread, a dish with the perfect blend of spice and sweetness. Pair it with sweet and tart prickly pear lemonade.
tortillaflataz.com/restaurant-saloon
E General Store
Choose from a selection of gelatos – including the must-try prickly pear flavor – to escape the heat. Not your taste? The shop sells other treats, including old-fashioned soda and candy, as well as local canned goods.
tortillaflataz.com/country-stores
F Well Done Grill at Canyon Lake
Located a little more than 2 miles from Tortilla Flat, this diner has beautiful lake views and is a great place to grab a quick bite. If it isn’t too hot, try the outdoor patio right above the water. Well Done Grill offers a wide selection of burgers, sandwiches and wings as well as craft beer and cocktails.
16802 AZ-88, Apache Junction
928-487-0146, wdcanyonlake.com
PHOTO OP
Toilet Seats
Grab two friends or pose alone by sticking your face inside these old toilet seats hanging outside the saloon. The owners aren’t sure how they got there, but they’re the most photographed things in town!
Overnight Option!
Camping at Tonto National Forest
Stay the night in a cabin or camp under the stars in beautiful Tonto National Forest, the largest national forest in Arizona. It’s the perfect getaway for lovers of the outdoors and stunning desert views.
fs.usda.gov/tonto
