Bisbee

Bisbee has transformed from a booming mining town to a hippie haven to an arts and culture community — over only the past century or so. The result? A free-spirited Southern Arizona community with a welcoming attitude for all.

Copper Queen Mine

Here’s where things really took off in Bisbee. Mining in Bisbee's Mule Mountains soared with the production of silver, gold, zinc, lead, manganese, and prized Bisbee Blue turquoise. Yet, it was the high-grade copper crucial for World War I production that propelled the town to fame. However, as mining activities dwindled, so did the bustling energy. Experience the town's rich history firsthand with an hourlong tour of the historic Copper Queen Mine. Before boarding the mine train for a 1500-foot descent, visitors are equipped with a mining lantern, safety helmet, and high-visibility vest during a pre-tour safety meeting. Led by retired mining employees, the tour delves into old mining techniques and the pulse-quickening dangers miners faced.

Historic hotels

The Copper Queen Hotel is renowned for its prominent hillside location and reports of paranormal activity. Historic and themed hotels in Bisbee are exceptionally popular and offer a unique overnight experience. Visitors can stay in restored vintage airstream trailers, a school bus, or even a boat at the Shady Dell. The Inn at Castle Rock features 14 themed rooms, including nautical and Victorian-style suites. The School House Bed & Breakfast, a converted school, offers rooms themed by subject, adding a playful twist to the stay — bringing a new meaning to falling asleep in math.

Cool bars & great meals

Mingle with locals at bars that might be considered hidden gems elsewhere. Enjoy a drink in front of a chalkboard frozen in time from the market crash at the Stock Exchange. Grab a pool cue at St. Elmo's, the oldest continuously operated bar in Arizona, or visit the Room 4 Bar, the state's smallest bar with just two stools and room for four patrons. Popular dining spots include Screaming Banshee Pizza for dinner, Poco Restaurant + Market for lunch, and the original Bisbee Breakfast Club for breakfast or lunch.

Shopping

Vintage shops with unique antiques is a delightful experience in Bisbee. At Miners & Merchants Antique Center, you can wander through three floors of curiosities, with items ranging from leather accent chairs to kitchen table settings for a dollhouse. Throughout Bisbee, you'll notice colorful Arizona-flag patterned bomber jackets made by Classic Rock Couture, a brand loved by both locals and celebrities, including Florence Pugh and Miley Cyrus.

Festivals

Year-round festivals in Bisbee showcase the town's independent spirit. August's Pirates of the High Desert Weekend brings laughter and fun, while the mid-October Bisbee 1000, a challenging run that takes participants up and down 1,000 stairs accompanied by musicians, brings groans of effort. The three-day Bisbee Pride celebration in June is known for its creativity and inclusivity. The July 4th festivities feature offbeat events like mining competitions and bed races.

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