Things To Do In Bisbee And Tombstone – Beyond The Gunfights: A
Planning a trip to Southern Arizona, you’ve likely heard the legendary names: Tombstone and Bisbee. You’ve seen the pictures of dusty streets and heard tales of Wild West shootouts. But you’re not just looking for a tourist trap; you want an authentic adventure that connects you to the rugged spirit of the desert landscape.
You agree that a great trip goes beyond just seeing the sights—it’s about experiencing a place. We promise this guide will show you exactly how to do that. We’ll cut through the noise and give you a practical, boots-on-the-ground plan for exploring these iconic towns like a seasoned traveler.
Get ready to discover the best things to do in bisbee and tombstone, from historical deep dives and quirky artistic explorations to incredible outdoor excursions you won’t find in the average travel blog. We’ll cover where to camp, what trails to hike, and how to do it all safely and sustainably.
Planning Your Southern Arizona Adventure: Essential Tips
A successful trip to the high desert starts with smart planning. The environment here can be unforgiving, but with the right preparation, you’ll be set for an incredible journey. This is our essential things to do in bisbee and tombstone guide for getting your logistics dialed in.
Best Time to Visit
Timing is everything in the desert. While you can visit year-round, the most comfortable seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these months, you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights perfect for both town exploration and hiking.
Summers (June-August) are extremely hot, with daytime temperatures often soaring above 100°F. If you travel in summer, plan all outdoor activities for the early morning or late evening. This is also monsoon season, so be prepared for sudden, intense afternoon thunderstorms.
Winters are mild and sunny but can have cold nights, sometimes dropping below freezing. It’s a great time to visit if you want to avoid crowds, but be sure to pack warm layers for your evenings at camp.
Getting There & Getting Around
Most travelers fly into Tucson International Airport (TUS), which is about a 70-minute drive to Tombstone and a 90-minute drive to Bisbee. A standard car is perfectly fine for visiting the towns themselves.
However, if you plan to explore the surrounding backcountry, an RV, van, or a high-clearance vehicle like a Subaru Forester or Toyota 4Runner will give you access to forest service roads and dispersed camping areas in the nearby Coronado National Forest.
Where to Stay: Camping & RV Options
Forget generic hotels. The best way to experience this region is by setting up a basecamp under the stars. Here are a few top options for campers and RVers:
- Tombstone RV Park and Campground: A solid option right in town, offering full hookups and easy walking access to historic Allen Street. It’s convenient but can be busy.
- Queen Mine RV Park (Bisbee): Located right in Bisbee, this spot offers great views of the mountains and easy access to the town’s quirky shops and restaurants.
- Coronado National Forest: For the more self-sufficient adventurer, dispersed camping is available throughout the national forest. Research the Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) for designated roads and sites. This is the ultimate way to connect with the landscape, but remember to practice strict Leave No Trace principles.
- Kartchner Caverns State Park: About 30 minutes from Tombstone, this state park has a beautiful, well-maintained campground with spacious sites, clean facilities, and access to the park’s stunning cave tours. It makes a fantastic, comfortable basecamp.
Tombstone: Stepping into the Wild West
Tombstone is “The Town Too Tough to Die,” and its history is palpable. While it can feel touristy, looking past the staged gunfights reveals a fascinating story of grit, industry, and survival in a harsh frontier. Here’s how to experience it with an adventurer’s mindset.
Must-See Historical Sites
Start your journey on Allen Street. Yes, you should see the famous spots, but think of them as living history lessons.
Visit the O.K. Corral to understand the legendary gunfight, but then head to the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park. Here, you’ll find the authentic documents, photos, and artifacts that tell the real story of law and order in a silver boomtown. It provides crucial context that the reenactments miss.
A walk through Boot Hill Graveyard is a somber but essential stop. Reading the grave markers gives you a real sense of the dangers of 19th-century life, from gunfights to disease and mining accidents.
Beyond the Gunfights: Authentic Experiences
To truly connect with Tombstone’s past, slow down. Wander off Allen Street onto the residential side streets to see original 1880s homes. Visit the Goodenough Mine Tour to get a sense of the difficult work that built this town.
The legendary Bird Cage Theatre is another must-see. Left nearly untouched since it closed in 1892, it’s a dusty, haunting time capsule that feels far more authentic than many of the town’s restored attractions.
Pro-Tip for Visiting Tombstone
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes like the Merrell Moab 3 or Hoka Speedgoat. The wooden boardwalks are uneven, and the streets are dirt. And always carry a water bottle, like a Hydro Flask or Nalgene. The dry air will dehydrate you faster than you realize—this is one of the most common problems visitors face.
Bisbee: The Quirky Copper Queen of the Mule Mountains
Just 30 minutes from Tombstone lies Bisbee, a town with a completely different soul. Built precariously on the steep sides of Mule Gulch, this former copper mining town is now a vibrant, bohemian enclave of artists, musicians, and free spirits. Exploring Bisbee is an adventure in itself.
Descend into History: The Queen Mine Tour
This is a non-negotiable Bisbee experience. You’ll don a hard hat, a yellow slicker, and a headlamp before riding a mine train 1,500 feet deep into the mountain. Led by former miners, the tour offers an incredible perspective on the dangerous work that fueled America’s industrial revolution.
The mine stays at a cool 47°F year-round, making it a perfect escape from the summer heat. This is one of the top benefits of things to do in bisbee and tombstone—finding unique ways to stay cool and engaged.
Exploring the Labyrinth: An Urban Hike
The best way to see Bisbee is on foot. The town is a maze of winding roads, hidden alleys, and over 350 historic public staircases. Forget a set itinerary; just start walking. Head up from Main Street or Brewery Gulch and let yourself get lost.
This is where you’ll find the real Bisbee: colorful murals, tiny art installations, and stunning views of the canyon. Treat it like a trail hike—wear good shoes, carry water, and be prepared for a workout. Following the “Bisbee 1000” staircase race route is a great way to see the highlights.
The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Bisbee and Tombstone for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond the historic towns, Cochise County is a paradise for hikers, birders, and explorers. The rugged mountains and lush riparian areas offer a surprising amount of biodiversity and stunning scenery. Here are the best practices for getting outside.
Hiking in the Mule Mountains
Bisbee is surrounded by the Mule Mountains, which offer a number of excellent trails. The most accessible is the “B” trail, which switchbacks up the mountain behind town to the large concrete letter “B” on the hillside. It’s a short but steep climb that rewards you with a panoramic view of Old Bisbee and the Lavender Pit mine.
For a longer trek, explore the trails around Juniper Flats. Always check trail conditions before you go, carry a map and compass or a GPS device like a Garmin inReach Mini, and pack the Ten Essentials. Be mindful of the elevation and potential for afternoon storms.
Birding at the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
Located between the two towns, this area is a globally important bird habitat. The San Pedro is one of the last free-flowing rivers in the Southwest, creating a ribbon of green that attracts hundreds of bird species. This is one of the best eco-friendly things to do in bisbee and tombstone.
Walk the trails near the San Pedro House for a chance to see gray hawks, vermilion flycatchers, and yellow-billed cuckoos. Bring a good pair of binoculars, like the Vortex Diamondback HD 8×42, and a field guide. The best times for birding are early morning and late afternoon.
Explore Coronado National Memorial
This National Park Service site commemorates the first major European expedition into the American Southwest, led by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado. The memorial offers more than just history; it boasts a scenic drive with breathtaking views and several excellent hiking trails.
The Montezuma Pass overlook provides a stunning vista of the San Pedro Valley and Mexico. From here, you can hike a section of the 800-mile Arizona Trail for an immersive high-desert experience.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel in Cochise County
As outdoor adventurers, it’s our responsibility to protect the places we love. This fragile desert ecosystem requires mindful travel. Following these sustainable things to do in bisbee and tombstone ensures these towns and landscapes remain special for generations to come.
Leave No Trace in the Desert
The principles of Leave No Trace are especially critical here. The desert is slow to heal.
- Pack it in, pack it out: This includes organic waste like apple cores and orange peels.
- Stay on the trail: Delicate cryptobiotic soil crusts take decades to recover when trampled.
- Respect wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them.
- Camp on durable surfaces: Use established campsites or rocky areas to minimize your impact.
Support Local Businesses
One of the best ways to travel sustainably is to ensure your money supports the local community. Eat at the family-owned diners in Tombstone, buy art directly from the galleries in Bisbee, and shop at the local co-op for supplies. This enriches your experience and strengthens the local economy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Bisbee and Tombstone
How many days do you need for Bisbee and Tombstone?
You can see the main highlights of both towns in one very long day, but it will feel rushed. We recommend a two-day, one-night itinerary. Spend one day focused on Tombstone and a nearby outdoor activity like the San Pedro River, then spend the night and the entire next day exploring Bisbee’s shops, art, and trails.
Is it better to stay in Bisbee or Tombstone?
This depends on the vibe you’re looking for. Tombstone is quiet at night and fully immersed in the Old West theme. Bisbee offers far more options for dining, lodging, and nightlife, and its central location in the Mule Mountains makes it a better basecamp for hikers and outdoor adventurers.
What are some common problems to avoid when visiting?
The three biggest issues visitors face are all related to the environment. First is dehydration; drink water constantly, even before you feel thirsty. Second is sun exposure; wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Third is underestimating the summer heat; schedule all strenuous activity for early morning or late evening.
What should I pack for a trip to Bisbee and Tombstone?
Think layers and sun protection. Your pack list should include: sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, moisture-wicking socks, layered clothing (a t-shirt, fleece, and windbreaker), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, a reusable water bottle (at least 1 liter), and a small daypack like an Osprey Daylite Plus to carry your essentials.
Your journey to Tombstone and Bisbee is more than a trip—it’s an opportunity to connect with a unique corner of American history and a stunning desert landscape. You now have the field guide to look past the surface and find the real adventure waiting for you. Plan smart, travel responsibly, and embrace the rugged spirit of Southern Arizona.
Stay safe and explore with confidence!
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