Bisbee, Arizona: Where the Fun Never Stops! Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

The town is stitched together with staircases instead of streets. Bisbee is built into a hillside above the old copper workings and the roads simply gave up in places. There are over 1,000 steps and locals race up them once a year for sport. The mine tour drops you underground and there is a restaurant sitting in an old copper mine. Nothing here is arranged the way you would expect.

Bisbee, Arizona: Where the Fun Never Stops! Best Places to Visit and T, Bisbee, Arizona

Welcome to Bisbee, Arizona, a quirky town sitting a stone’s throw from the Mexican border. Bisbee is a popular tourist destination that runs a strange mix of history, art, adventure and good eating. History readers, art buyers and people who just want a jolt all get their money’s worth here.

One of the things that sets Bisbee apart from other small towns is its oddity. The town is full of colorful buildings, funky shops and locals who are always happy to talk to a stranger. You will find plenty of ways to run into the town’s character, from the art galleries to a walk through the historic district. And if you time it right, you might catch one of the town’s parades or festivals, which are reliably strange.

If you are interested in history, Bisbee holds a lot of it. The town was once a working mining community, and the evidence is still sitting in the old buildings and the mines that mark the landscape. Take a tour of the Copper Queen Mine, which ran for over 80 years and produced millions of pounds of copper. Or visit the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, which lays out the town’s history and culture.

Key Takeaways

Bisbee, Arizona is a unique and charming town that offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or adventure, Bisbee has plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained.
From exploring the town’s quirky charm to learning about its rich mining history, there’s always something new to discover in Bisbee.

The Quirky Charm of Bisbee

If you want a town that is a little offbeat, Bisbee should sit at the top of your list. This former mining town has turned into a hub for artists, vintage hunters and anyone who likes their travel a bit sideways.

As you walk the streets, you will notice that Bisbee has a character that separates it from other towns. It has been called Mayberry on acid, which is about right: quaint and charming, with something odd running underneath.

One of the odder features of Bisbee is its stairs. The town is built into a steep hillside, and the streets are joined by a series of staircases. There are over 1,000 steps in total, and each one has its own shape. Some are narrow and winding, others are wide and grand. It is a serious workout, and it is also the fastest way to learn the town.

Another thing you will notice in Bisbee is the street art. The town is covered in murals and graffiti, and all of it is part of the appeal. You will find everything from political messages to whimsical designs, and it is a fast read on what the local artists are thinking.

Speaking of artists, Bisbee holds a working community of creatives. You will find galleries and studios throughout the town, showing everything from paintings to pottery. It is a good place to pick up a souvenir nobody else will have, or to simply watch the talent of the locals.

Finally, if you are a fan of vintage, Bisbee is the place for you. The town is filled with antique shops and thrift stores, offering everything from vintage clothing to mid-century furniture. It rewards anyone who likes the thrill of the hunt.

In short, Bisbee is a town with a lot of personality. It is quirky, artistic and a little bit weird, and that is exactly what makes this Arizona town worth the drive. Whether it is the stairs, the street art or the vintage racks, you are going to come home with a story.

Historical Bisbee

If you are a history reader, Bisbee will keep you busy. The town is full of historical sites and landmarks that pull you straight back in time. Here are some places to visit if you want the town’s history first-hand:

Old Bisbee

Step back in time and walk the streets of Old Bisbee, where the historic buildings and landmarks come thick. Take a stroll down Brewery Gulch, once the hub of the town’s red-light district, and picture what it was like in the Wild West days. You can also visit the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum to learn more about the town’s mining history and see some of the equipment the miners used.

Lowell and Erie Street

Lowell and Erie Street is another area steeped in history. This was once the heart of Bisbee’s copper mining industry, and some of the old mining structures and buildings are still standing. Take a tour of the Copper Queen Mine, one of the great copper mines of the world, and learn about the miners who risked their lives to pull the metal out.

Historic Buildings

Bisbee holds a number of historic buildings that are worth your time. The Copper Queen Hotel, built in 1902, is one of the landmark buildings in town. It is said to be haunted by the ghosts of miners who died in the nearby mines. You can also visit the Muheim Heritage House Museum, a restored Victorian home that is now a museum showing life in early Bisbee. Do not miss the Bisbee Restoration Museum, which runs exhibits on the town’s architecture and restoration efforts.

No matter where you go in Bisbee, you are going to find something that catches you off guard. History reader or not, the town gives you a day worth talking about. So grab your hat and boots, and go and see what this place has kept.

Artistic Bisbee

If you buy art, you are in for a good day in Bisbee. The town holds a working artistic community, with plenty of galleries and shops showing the work of local artists. Here are a few spots you will not want to miss.

Art Galleries

Bisbee has a working art scene, and there are plenty of galleries to walk through. Traditional paintings, sculpture, or something a lot more avant-garde, you are going to find a piece that stops you.

Belleza Fine Art Gallery

One of the standout galleries in town is Belleza Fine Art Gallery. This gallery shows the work of some of the strongest artists in Bisbee, with a focus on contemporary and modern art. From abstract paintings to serious sculpture, something in there is going to speak to you.

Sam Poe Gallery

Another spot to check out is the Sam Poe Gallery. This gallery sits inside a historic building and runs a deep bench of art, from traditional paintings to mixed media pieces. The gallery also carries a strong selection of antiques, so take a look if you collect.

No matter what kind of art you are into, Bisbee has a room for it. So grab your camera and your nerve, and go and see what the town’s artistic community is making.

Adventurous Bisbee

Looking for some adventure in Bisbee? You are in luck. This quirky town has plenty of options for the thrill-seekers out there. Here are some of the more exciting things to do in Bisbee:

Ghost Tours

Are you brave enough to look at the haunted side of Bisbee? Take a tour with Old Bisbee Ghost Tour and hear spine-tingling stories about the town’s paranormal past. You will visit the spots in Bisbee with the worst reputations, including the Copper Queen Hotel and the Oliver House. Do not forget to bring your ghost-hunting gear.

Mine Tours

Bisbee’s mining history is genuinely strange, and the sharpest way into it is a tour of the Queen Mine. Descend deep into the earth and see first-hand how copper was pulled out of the ground. It is an experience you will not shake for a while. Plus, you get to wear a hard hat.

City Tours

Bisbee is a town with a lot of character, and a city tour is the perfect way to see it all. Take a walking tour of Old Bisbee and learn about the town’s history and architecture. Or, if you prefer something a little more offbeat, hop on the Bisbee Trolley Tour and see the sights from a vintage trolley car. Either way, you’ll get a great introduction to Bisbee’s quirky charm.

No matter which adventure you pick, you are going to come out of Bisbee with a story. So grab your sense of humor and go and see it.

Dining in Bisbee

When it comes to dining in Bisbee, you will not be disappointed. From classic diners to upscale restaurants, Bisbee covers the whole range. Here are some of the strongest dining options in town:

Cafe Roka

If you want a fine dining experience, Cafe Roka is the place to go. This restaurant sits in the heart of historic Bisbee and runs a menu built on local ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant and intimate, which suits a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Bisbee Breakfast Club

For a more casual dining experience, check out the Bisbee Breakfast Club. This diner-style restaurant serves breakfast all day long, as well as sandwiches, burgers and salads. The portions are generous, so come hungry.

Contessa’s Cantina

If you are in the mood for Mexican food, head to Contessa’s Cantina. This restaurant runs traditional Mexican dishes, as well as some odd creations you will not find anywhere else. Do not forget to try their margaritas, which are what the meal is built around.

Bisbee Coffee Company

For a quick bite or a caffeine fix, stop by the Bisbee Coffee Company. This cozy coffee shop runs a range of coffee drinks, as well as pastries and sandwiches. It is a good spot to sit and watch the street go by.

Thuy’s Noodle Shop

Craving Asian cuisine? Thuy’s Noodle Shop has you covered. This restaurant serves Vietnamese dishes, including pho and banh mi. The portions are generous, so bring your appetite.

The Quarry

For a dining experience with a strange address, check out The Quarry. This restaurant sits inside an old copper mine and runs a menu built on locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is rustic and cozy, which is what you want after a long day on the stairs.

No matter where you choose to dine in Bisbee, you are going to eat well. From huevos rancheros to wood-fired pizzas, the dining scene in Bisbee carries it all. And do not forget to wash it down with a cold beer from the Old Bisbee Brewing Company.

Give Bisbee a full day and wear the shoes you trust. Old Bisbee, Brewery Gulch and Main Street all sit close enough to work through on foot. The Queen Mine tour and the ghost tour both need booking, so sort those out first. The galleries, the vintage shops and the stairs will take whatever hours you have left. Park once and then walk the rest.

Accommodations in Bisbee

Looking for a place to stay in Bisbee that will not break the bank? Look at the Copper Queen Hotel. This historic hotel is a landmark property that has been standing for over 100 years. It sits in the heart of Bisbee’s Historic District and runs comfortable rooms at reasonable rates. Plus, the hotel carries TV/HBO, free wireless internet and convenient private parking. So book your stay at the Copper Queen Hotel.

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, why not try one of the many Airbnb options in Bisbee? From cozy cottages to spacious lofts, there’s something for everyone. Plus, staying in an Airbnb allows you to experience the local culture and get a taste of what it’s like to live in Bisbee. So, go ahead and book your stay at one of the many Airbnb options in Bisbee. You won’t regret it.

Copper Queen Hotel

The Copper Queen Hotel is a historic landmark that has been standing for over 100 years. It sits in the heart of Bisbee’s Historic District and runs comfortable rooms at reasonable rates. Plus, the hotel carries TV/HBO, free wireless internet and convenient private parking. So if you want a place to stay in Bisbee that will not break the bank, the Copper Queen Hotel is your answer.

Airbnb Options

Shopping in Bisbee

Bisbee has a shopping scene that will hold anyone who likes to browse. From vintage clothes to artisanal crafts, the range runs wide. Here are some of the places to shop in Bisbee.

Main Street Shops

Main Street is the heart of Bisbee’s shopping district. It is lined with shops and boutiques that carry everything from handmade jewelry to local art. You can spend hours walking down the street, ducking into shops and turning up things you did not expect.

One of the shops to hit on Main Street is Bisbee Soap & Sundry. They carry a deep bench of handmade soaps, lotions and other bath products that will make you feel looked after. You can also find gifts and souvenirs made by local artisans.

Another shop to check out is High Desert Market & Cafe. They carry a deep bench of gourmet foods, including locally roasted coffee, artisanal cheeses and fresh-baked bread. You can also find kitchen gadgets and cookbooks that will get you cooking again.

Vintage Clothes Stores

If you love vintage clothes, Bisbee is the place to be. There are several stores in town that specialize in vintage clothing and accessories. One of the ones people name first is Finders Keepers Antiques & Vintage. They carry a deep bench of vintage clothing, jewelry and accessories from the 1920s to the 1980s.

Another store to check out is the Vintage House. They carry a deep bench of vintage clothing and accessories, as well as retro home decor. You can find everything from vintage dresses to mid-century modern furniture.

In conclusion, Bisbee runs a shopping experience you will not find anywhere else. Handmade soaps or vintage clothing, something on those racks is going to catch your eye. So grab your wallet and hit the streets of Bisbee for a shopping run you will remember.

Events and Festivals in Bisbee

Bisbee is known for its odd events, so do not miss the chance to get into one. From vintage baseball tournaments to wine tastings, something is always running in Bisbee.

One of the events people talk about most in Bisbee is the annual Skull & Scuppers pub crawl. Put on your pirate gear and join in as you hop from bar to bar, working through drink specials and live music. And if you are feeling extra adventurous, sign up for the annual walkin’ o’ th’ plank. It is not as alarming as it sounds, just a way to cool off in the summer heat.

If you want something a bit more family-friendly, check out Bisbee’s annual Pirate parade and circus. Watch performers work through acrobatics and fire-eating, and get a photo with a real-life mermaid. During the day there are also vendors selling their wares and make-and-take art projects for the kids.

For the sports fans out there, do not miss the Copper City Classic Vintage Baseball Tournament. Watch teams dressed in period uniforms play America’s favorite pastime, all while raising money for the Historic Warren Ballpark. And if you are more of a wine person, check out the Vintage Bisbee Wine Tasting in October. Food, wine and music, with the strongest bottles the region grows.

Bisbee’s Brewery Gulch is also a hub for events and festivals. Check out the Bisbee Seance Room for a strange evening of theater, or simply work the area’s shops and bars. And if you are in town during the summer, catch the Bisbee Blues Festival, which brings in serious blues musicians.

No matter what time of year you visit Bisbee, something odd is going on. So grab your friends and family and get into it.

Nearby Attractions

If you want to look beyond Bisbee, there are plenty of nearby attractions to check out. Here are some places worth the drive:

Tombstone

You can’t talk about Bisbee without mentioning Tombstone. This historic town is known for the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, which Wyatt Earp and his posse famously won. But there’s more to Tombstone than just cowboys and shootouts. You can take a tour of the old silver mines, visit the Bird Cage Theatre (rumored to be haunted), or check out the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the town’s many reenactments.

Tucson

North of Bisbee, Tucson is a city with plenty to see and do. Check out the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which runs a zoo, a botanical garden and a natural history museum all in one. Or head to the Pima Air & Space Museum, where you can walk past over 300 aircrafts, including a B-52 bomber and a space shuttle trainer. And if you are feeling adventurous, take a hike in the nearby Saguaro National Park.

Phoenix

If you are willing to make the long drive north, Phoenix is a strong destination for a weekend getaway. Check out the Phoenix Art Museum, which holds over 20,000 works of art from around the world. Or head to the Heard Museum, which shows the art and culture of Native Americans in the Southwest. And if you are a sports fan, catch a game at Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, or State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals.

History reader, art buyer, or somebody who just wants the scenery to change, the country near Bisbee will hold you. So get in your car and start driving.

Outdoor Activities in Bisbee

When you are in Bisbee, you will want to spend as much time as possible outdoors. The weather works in your favor, and there is a lot to get through. Here are a few outdoor activities you will not want to miss.

Golfing

If you golf, Bisbee has a course worth your morning. The Turquoise Valley Golf Course sits in the Mule Mountains, and it is one of the oldest courses in Arizona. The course is demanding, and it is also a lot of fun. Plus, the views run for miles. You will feel like you are playing golf in the middle of the open desert.

Birdwatching

If you do not golf, Bisbee still has plenty outdoors. You can go birdwatching at the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory. This is a strong place to see all sorts of birds, including hummingbirds, hawks and owls. The observatory sits in the Chiricahua Mountains, and it will hold you for an afternoon.

When you are birdwatching, bring a pair of binoculars and a camera. You will want a good look at all the different birds, and you will definitely want to take some pictures. Wear comfortable shoes, too. You will be doing a lot of walking.

Bisbee is a strong place to visit if you love the outdoors. Golfer or birdwatcher, you will find plenty to do and see. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen and go and get into it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to spend a day in Bisbee without spending a dime?

You are in luck. Bisbee is full of free things to do. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area and look at the colorful buildings. Visit the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, which waives the entry fee on the first Tuesday of every month. Have a picnic in one of the many parks, such as Warren Ballpark or Vista Park. And do not forget to snap a photo of the Bisbee Greetings from Bisbee mural for your Instagram feed.

Any recommendations for a restaurant that won’t break the bank in Bisbee?

Bisbee has plenty of affordable dining options. Head over to Santiago’s for good Mexican food at a reasonable price. Or try Ana’s Seasonal Kitchen for fresh, locally sourced cooking that will not empty your wallet. And if you are in the mood for pizza, do not miss out on Screaming Banshee Pizza.

What’s the most unique thing to do in Bisbee?

That is subjective, but the Bisbee Mini Museum of the Bizarre is the one people talk about after. It is a quirky little spot that is going to make you laugh and scratch your head in confusion. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, take a ghost tour of Bisbee and learn about the town’s haunted history.

Any upcoming events in Bisbee that are a must-see?

Bisbee runs a number of events through the year that are worth planning around. If you are a fan of music, do not miss the Bisbee Blues Festival in September. And if you are a fan of art, the Bisbee Plein Air Festival in October is the one to catch.

What’s the history behind the Copper Queen Mine?

The Copper Queen Mine was once one of the richest copper mines in history. It opened in the late 1800s and ran for over 80 years. Today, you can visit the mine and learn about its history on a guided tour.

Is it worth taking the Bisbee mine tour or should I just stick to the surface?

If you want Bisbee’s mining history properly, take the Bisbee mine tour. It is an experience that puts you underground and gives you a real look at what life was like for miners back in the day. Plus, the tour guides know the ground and they are entertaining with it. But if you are claustrophobic or have mobility issues, you might want to stay on the surface.

Frequently asked questions about Bisbee, Arizona

Which mine in Bisbee is the one that you should actually be going down into?

Queen Mine. The tour takes you a long way underground and shows you exactly how the copper was pulled back out of the rock. You get a hard hat, and the guides know that ground well enough to make the whole hour worth it. It runs cold down there, so bring along something with proper sleeves on it. Book it well before you arrive in town.

Which museum in Bisbee is the one that most people end up talking about afterwards?

The Bisbee Mini Museum of the Bizarre. It is small and it is odd and it is the thing people describe first when they finally get home. The Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum is the serious one, with the equipment and the town’s whole written record. Both of them sit close enough together to do in the very same walk. Bizarre first.

Which trail in Bisbee is really just the staircases running straight up the hill?

All of them, more or less. The town has over 1,000 steps and the streets up there are joined together by the staircases between them. Some of the runs are narrow and winding, and the others open right up wide and grand. It is a genuine climb and the altitude does not help you at all. Go slow, and stop when the view opens.

Keep exploring Bisbee, Arizona