Bisbee is a hidden gem nestled in the Mule Mountains of Southern Arizona. Once a boomtown, Bisbee has evolved into a vibrant destination known for its colorful buildings, art scene and quirky small town vibe. Its streets are a melding of old world charm and new world creativity making it the perfect getaway for history buffs, adventure seekers and anyone looking for a unique experience.
As the sun goes down in Bisbee the town comes alive. From ghost tours to brewpubs, Bisbee’s nightlife is a mix of mystery and fun. Whether you’re wandering through historic landmarks, uncovering the past or just soaking up the artsy atmosphere, there’s always something cool to find.
In this guide we’ll explore the 20 best and most fun things to do in Bisbee, from must sees to hidden gems. Whether you want to dig into the town’s mining history, appreciate its artistic side or go on a paranormal adventure, this list will help you make the most of your time in this Arizona town.
Things To Do in Bisbee, AZ
1. Go Shopping on Main Street
Main Street Bisbee
Main Street, a quaint avenue in the center of Bisbee, is where tourists may wander past early 20th-century buildings that have been restored. With its charming stores, welcoming cafes, and brilliant murals that depict the town’s rich past and creative spirit, this busy neighborhood radiates a dynamic vibe.
With a wide range of stores selling anything from rare treasures to vintage jewelry, Main Street is a veritable gold mine for antique enthusiasts.
The many galleries featuring local artists’ creations, such as the well-known Belleza Fine Art Gallery, will appeal to art lovers. The street is also lined with distinctive shops where you may find handcrafted goods and mementos that perfectly encapsulate Bisbee.
Address: 7 Main St, Bisbee, AZ 85603
2. Visit the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum
Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum
Anyone interested in the rich mining history of this distinctive town should pay a visit to the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum. As a museum affiliated with the Smithsonian, it provides a comprehensive insight into Bisbee’s rich history. Visitors may get a thorough grasp of how Bisbee changed from a busy mining colony to a thriving cultural attraction through interactive exhibitions and an extensive collection of relics.
The methods and tools used to extract copper from the soil are among the many facets of mining life that are covered in the museum’s exhibitions. Through in-depth exhibits and firsthand accounts, you can delve into the everyday life of miners, giving industrial history a human face.
Address: 5 Copper Queen Plaza, Bisbee, AZ 85603, USA
3. Experience the Copper Queen Mine Tour
Copper Queen Mine Tour
Visitors may immerse themselves in Bisbee’s rich mining heritage with the Copper Queen Mine Tour, an amazing subterranean excursion. You enter a once-thriving mine while wearing a hard hat and a miner’s headlamp. An exceptional chance to investigate the complex system of tunnels that were essential to the town’s copper manufacturing is offered by this guided tour.
Experienced guides, many of whom are former miners, tell you about the lives of those who worked in the mine as you navigate the dark corridors. You’ll learn more about the difficult working conditions and the underground companionship that miners encountered daily.
Address: 478 N Dart Rd, Bisbee, AZ 85603, USA
4. Stay Up Late on the Old Bisbee Ghost Tour
Old Bisbee Ghost Tour
Discover the eerie side of Bisbee by going on the Old Bisbee Ghost Tour, an enthralling midnight excursion that explores the town’s eerie past. A professional guide will accompany you through Bisbee’s winding streets and passageways as night falls. Chilling stories of eerie encounters and unexplained events that have been passed down through the years abound throughout the tour.
You’ll see some of the town’s most haunted spots on the tour, including historic structures and places known for paranormal activity. Every location on the trip offers a window into Bisbee’s darker past, from stories of lost souls that continue to haunt the area to fatal mining accidents.
Address: 5 Copper Queen Plaza, Bisbee, AZ 85603, USA
5. Explore the Copper Queen Hotel
Copper Queen Hotel
A pillar of Bisbee’s illustrious past is the Copper Queen Hotel, Arizona’s oldest hotel still in operation. This Victorian-style hotel, which was constructed in 1902, takes visitors back in time. With its opulent façade and elaborate embellishments, the hotel’s architecture captures the grandeur of Bisbee’s mining boom era.
The Copper Queen Hotel’s interior features tastefully decorated rooms that combine contemporary conveniences with historic charm. Every room is designed differently, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance that instantly makes visitors feel at home.
The hotel’s public rooms, such as the dining areas and lobby, are furnished with antiques and old photos, so even if you can’t stay the night, you can still enjoy them. Both residents and tourists like to eat at the hotel’s restaurant, which is called the Spirit Room.
Address: 11 Howell Ave, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States
6. VISIT THE BISBEE RESTORATION MUSEUM
BISBEE RESTORATION MUSEUM
The Bisbee Restoration Museum is one of the free things to do in Bisbee, Arizona, and is located in the Fair Store building on historic Main Street.
This three-story museum displays the town’s history, particularly ranching.
Run by a group of volunteers, you may browse an extensive collection of textiles such as gorgeous quilts, vintage clothing, exquisite pieces of furniture, nostalgic toys, and lavish bridal gowns.
Address: 37 Main St, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States
7. Explore Erie Street in Lowell
Erie Street in Lowell
Erie Street in Lowell, a ghost town near Bisbee, provides an interesting and nostalgic journey back in time. This gorgeous boulevard is a living museum of mid-century Americana, with vintage cars parked along the curbs and carefully restored stores. Walking down Erie Street, one can almost hear the sounds of a bygone period, when this portion of Lowell was a thriving community.
The vintage cars, which range from classic sedans to old trucks, contribute to the street’s genuine feel and appeal. They are perfectly positioned to provide magnificent photographic possibilities, making Erie Street a popular destination for photographers and history buffs alike. Each automobile and storefront tells a tale, giving a snapshot of life in the region during its peak mining years.
Address: Erie St, Bisbee, AZ 85603, USA
8. Sip a Cold One at Brewery Gulch
Brewery Gulch, formerly the boisterous heart of Bisbee’s nightlife, is now home to a variety of local pubs and wonderful eateries that reflect its dynamic past. A journey to Brewery Gulch isn’t complete without a stop at the Old Bisbee Brewing Company.
This brewery is a paradise for craft beer connoisseurs, serving a wide variety of locally created beers. From crisp lagers to strong stouts, there’s something for everyone’s taste. In addition to the Old Bisbee Brewing Company, Brewery Gulch has several more bars and pubs, each with its distinct personality and charm. This area is popular for social gatherings due to its live music, pleasant clients, and diverse drink options.
Address: 13102 S Brewery Gulch Rd, Pearce, AZ 85625
9. Appreciate the Art Galleries of Bisbee
Bisbee is well-known for its robust art scene. Walking across town, you’ll come across a variety of galleries displaying local and regional talent. These creative spaces are more than just storefronts; they are centers for innovation and community participation.
Among these, Belleza Fine Art Gallery stands out as a vital part of Bisbee’s artistic community. Belleza is known for its excellent modern art collection, which includes works by both local and regional artists. The gallery’s curated shows feature a diverse spectrum of mediums, such as painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.
10. STOP AT THE MUHEIM HERITAGE HOUSE MUSEUM
Muheim Heritage House Museum
Take a guided tour of this Registered National Historic Site, known for its Victorian architecture, to learn about the town’s history.
Address: 207 B, 207 Youngblood Hill Ave, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States
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11. Check out the Lavender Pit.
Lavender Pit
The Lavender Pit was part of the enormous Copper Queen Mine, which was operated by the Phelps Dodge Corporation from 1879 to 1975.
This enormous open-pit copper mine close outside Bisbee was built to compensate for revenue losses caused by the Copper Queen Mine’s ore reduction.
The Lavender Pit was exploited by blasting 50-foot-long shelves or benches to a depth of 60 feet.
The pit covers 300 acres and is 900 feet deep, huge enough to consume the majority of the nearby town of Lowell.
Address: Bisbee, AZ 85603, USA
12. Appreciate nature in Sierra Vista
Sierra Vista
Sierra Vista, a historic mining town located just a short drive from Bisbee, provides visitors with a variety of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Sierra Vista, located in the gorgeous landscapes of Southern Arizona, is known for its breathtaking views and plentiful animals.
Hiking in Sierra Vista is a popular activity, with various trails suitable for all skill levels. The adjacent Huachuca Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for walks, with routes winding through varied ecosystems and affording breathtaking views. Bird watchers will be delighted by the area’s reputation as a birding hotspot, with opportunities to see a diverse range of species, including several uncommon and migratory birds. It is also known as the “Hummingbird Capital of the United States.”
13. Find Hidden Treasures at Bisbee’s Antique Shops.
As you walk through the picturesque streets of Bisbee, you’ll come across a variety of shops catering to all tastes and interests.
Inside these small stores, you may find a wide selection of antique apparel, each with its own story and character. Every fashion aficionado will find something to enjoy, from stunning Victorian gowns to fashionable mid-century outfits. In addition to apparel, the shops sell unique antiques such as antique jewelry, ancient books, and nostalgic souvenirs.
Furniture connoisseurs will be impressed by the array of vintage pieces available, which range from finely carved oak tables to tastefully upholstered chairs. Each object has been carefully kept, providing insight into historical craftsmanship.
14. Enjoy Some “Spirits” on the Haunted Pub Crawl
The Haunted Pub Crawl is a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in Bisbee, combining frightening thrills with local character. This guided tour takes a small group to some of Bisbee’s most haunted pubs, mixing scary ghost stories with the vibrant ambiance of the town’s nightlife.
As the evening approaches, your tour begins at one of the town’s old pubs, where your guide, who is well-versed in the town’s scary past, sets the scene with tales of ghostly activity. From there, you’ll go to five other locales, each with its own dark past and resident “spirits”.
15. Attend a Show in the Bisbee Seance Room.
Bisbee Seance Room
The Bisbee Seance Room is one of Bisbee’s most distinctive attractions. With hour-long concerts held in a genuine Victorian parlor, your host will share true stories of Bisbee’s ghostly history, accompanied by up-close magic acts, providing a memorable experience.
As you enter the dimly lighted chamber, you feel a sense of expectancy. Drawing on years of experience, the host will lead a small group through a series of rituals designed to attract spirits to make their presence known. The table may vibrate, whispers may be heard, and unexpected chills may run down your spine as your connection to the otherworldly realm grows stronger.
Address: 26 Brewery Ave, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States
16. See the Views From the Tombstone Canyon Hiking Trail
Tombstone Canyon Hiking Trail
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Tombstone Canyon Hiking Trail offers a picturesque escape into the rugged splendor of the Mule Mountains. This steep, 3.7-mile circle hike is rated as fairly tough.
The trail begins in downtown Bisbee and then climbs a ridge around the mountainside above town. Parts of the trail are unmarked, and depending on the density of the forest, it is easy to lose track of it. Bring a map and a navigation device to help you stay on the trail.
If you’re looking for an adventure as well as breathtaking views of Bisbee’s small town, you’ve found the right trail. Just remember to bring lots of water and sunscreen if you’re trekking in the summer.
17. Honor Bisbee’s History at the Evergreen Cemetery
Evergreen Cemetery
The cemetery is wonderfully maintained, with old trees casting dappled shadows over the graves, creating a peaceful scene for introspection. The headstones, some beautiful, others modest, commemorate the resting sites of miners, pioneers, and townspeople who helped create Bisbee’s early years. Walking amid these tombs, one can sense a strong link to the past of this once-thriving mining village.
18. Enjoy Upscale Dining at Café Roka
Café Roka
Café Roka is noted for offering an elegant eating experience that stands out in the heart of Bisbee. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by an attractive atmosphere with warm lighting, tasteful decor, and professional service.
The restaurant’s menu focuses on locally produced products and changes seasonally. Whether you’re eating a flawlessly grilled steak, a fresh salad, or a delectable dessert, the attention to detail is visible in every bite.
Address: 35 Main St, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States
19. Copper Queen Library
Copper Queen Library
The Copper Queen Library, founded in 1882, is Arizona’s oldest continuously operating library. Located in the heart of Bisbee, it offers a rich collection of books, historical archives, and community programs.
With its beautiful architecture and welcoming atmosphere, the library serves as a cultural hub for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re exploring Bisbee’s history or looking for a quiet reading spot, the Copper Queen Library is a must-visit.
20. Stay a Night at Shady Dell
Shady Dell
The Shady Dell in Bisbee, Arizona is a one of a kind lodging experience that will transport you back to the 1950s. This vintage trailer court has beautifully restored mid century trailers, each with retro decor, period furniture and classic amenities of post war America. From the shiny aluminum Airstreams to the wood panelled Spartan Mansions every detail is curated to give you a nostalgic yet comfortable stay. You can experience real mid century life with black and white TVs, old fashioned radios and rotary phones all surrounded by the desert landscape.
Beyond its unique accommodations The Shady Dell has an intimate and immersive atmosphere that sets it apart from traditional hotels. The vintage vibe extends outside where you can relax under striped awnings, sip coffee at retro patio tables and soak up the scenery. The on site diner, Dot’s Diner, adds to the experience with its 1950s ambience and comfort food. Whether you’re a history buff, a road trip enthusiast or just looking for a quirky and unforgettable getaway The Shady Dell delivers a nostalgic retreat that combines the past with modern comfort.
Address:1 Old Douglas Rd, Bisbee, AZ 85603, United States
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Conclusion
Bisbee, Arizona, situated in the quiet corners of the Mule Mountains, captivates visitors with its lovely blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Bisbee, a thriving mining town, has morphed into a haven for artists, history aficionados, explorers, and even cats! The town provides a bright sun and a relaxed pace of life, ideal for unhurried exploring. Its midnight marvels, ranging from ghost tours to brew pubs, give it a distinct charm.