Mystery Castle, Maricopa County Travel Guide

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Discover a whimsical desert castle built from recycled materials, a testament to a father's love and ingenuity in Phoenix, Arizona.

Nestled in the foothills of South Mountain Park in Phoenix, Arizona, Mystery Castle is an unusual and captivating landmark built in the 1930s by Boyce Luther Gulley for his daughter. Constructed from found and inexpensive materials, this 18-room castle reflects a unique blend of folk art and organic architecture.

A brief summary to Mystery Castle

800 E Mineral Rd, Phoenix, South Mountain Village, Arizona, 85042, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mystery Castle.

Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on tour availability and any COVID-19 related restrictions.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and stairs.
Bring cash for admission, as credit cards and other forms of payment may not be accepted.

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Explore Mystery Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Mystery Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From downtown Phoenix, head south on Central Avenue for approximately 7 miles. Turn east (left) onto Mineral Road. The Mystery Castle is at the end of the road. Parking is free. Note that Mineral Road can be a bit rocky.
Public Transport

Take the Valley Metro Rail to the Central Ave/Baseline Rd station. From there, transfer to the 7th Street bus heading south. Exit the bus at 7th Street and Mineral Road, then head west on Mineral Road for about half a mile to reach the Mystery Castle. A single ride on Valley Metro is $2.00.

Discover more about Mystery Castle

Mystery Castle, a quirky and captivating landmark in Phoenix, Arizona, stands as a testament to a father's love and ingenuity. Built in the 1930s by Boyce Luther Gulley, the castle is located in the foothills of South Mountain Park. Gulley, after being diagnosed with tuberculosis, moved from Seattle to Phoenix and began constructing the unique dwelling for his daughter, Mary Lou.Inspired by the desert surroundings and Indigenous cultures, Gulley used salvaged materials such as stone, adobe, automobile parts, and railroad tracks to create the 18-room, multi-story structure. The castle features 13 fireplaces, a chapel, a cantina, and even a dungeon, showcasing Gulley's resourcefulness and creativity. Some parts of the castle remain unfinished, and electricity and plumbing weren't added until 1992.After Gulley's death in 1945, Mary Lou and her mother, Frances, inherited the property and dedicated their lives to maintaining and sharing the castle with the public. Mary Lou began giving tours in 1948, captivating visitors with the castle's unique history and charm. The Mystery Castle quickly became a Phoenix Point of Pride, attracting attention from publications like LIFE magazine.Though Mary Lou passed away in 2010, the Mystery Castle Historical Foundation continues to preserve and care for the castle. However, the castle has faced challenges, including vandalism and encroaching suburban development. Despite these obstacles, the Mystery Castle remains a beloved landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into a whimsical and imaginative world.**Please note that tours are currently suspended until further notice**.