Experience the captivating sights and history of the Wild West on this Friday adventure from Tucson. Discover the once-thriving mining towns of Tombstone and Bisbee, where visitors can witness a reenactment of the famous OK Corral shootout and explore the legendary Boot Hill Cemetery. With a scenic drive through the Sonoran Desert and guided tours, this nine-hour excursion promises an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s captivating past. What will you uncover on this journey into the heart of the Old West?
Key Points
- 8-hour excursion from Tucson to Tombstone and Bisbee, priced from $195 per person with limited capacity of 13 participants.
- 100-minute scenic drive through the Sonoran Desert, featuring stunning views of the rugged landscape and saguaro cacti.
- 1.5-hour exploration of the historic mining town of Bisbee, including a visit to the Copper Queen Mine.
- 3.5-hour visit to the legendary town of Tombstone, with an included reenactment of the OK Corral shootout.
- Optional activities such as mine tours, stagecoach rides, and saloon visits to enhance the cultural and historical experience.
Tour Overview
The Tombstone & Bisbee Tour from Tucson is an 8-hour excursion that takes visitors through the Sonoran Desert to explore the historic towns of Tombstone and Bisbee.
Priced from $195 per person, the tour is limited to 13 participants who’ll be led by an English-speaking guide.
The journey includes a 100-minute scenic drive, 1.5 hours in Bisbee with a Copper Queen Mine tour, and 3.5 hours in Tombstone for the famous OK Corral reenactment and exploring Boot Hill Cemetery.
Transportation, water, and admission fees are included, with flexible cancellation and a reserve-now-pay-later option.
Scenic Drive Through Sonoran Desert
The scenic drive through the Sonoran Desert takes visitors on a 100-minute journey from Tucson to the historic towns of Tombstone and Bisbee.
Along the way, travelers are treated to stunning views of the rugged desert landscape, dotted with iconic saguaro cacti and framed by distant mountain ranges.
The van’s climate-controlled interior ensures a comfortable ride as the tour makes its way through the heart of this remarkable ecosystem.
Guests can gaze out the windows, snapping photos and taking in the serene beauty of the Sonoran Desert before arriving at their first destination, the mining town of Bisbee.
Exploring Bisbee
Upon arrival in Bisbee, the tour group embarks on a 1.5-hour exploration of this historic mining town. They visit the Copper Queen Mine, descending underground to witness the harsh conditions faced by miners. Afterward, the group strolls down Main Street, admiring the well-preserved Victorian buildings and quaint shops. A highlight is the local saloon, where visitors can sample regional beers and learn about Bisbee’s colorful past.
| Key Attractions in Bisbee |
| — | — | — | — |
| Copper Queen Mine Tour | Main Street Stroll | Local Saloon | Historical Buildings |
The tour provides a balanced experience, allowing ample time to take in Bisbee’s rich heritage and unique character.
Discovering Tombstone
After exploring the charming town of Bisbee, the tour group embarks on the second leg of their journey – a 3.5-hour visit to the legendary Tombstone.
The group experiences:
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A reenactment of the iconic shootout at the OK Corral, set at 1 PM.
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Free time to wander the streets and enjoy the town’s Wild West atmosphere.
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A visit to the Boot Hill Cemetery, where they learn about the town’s notorious outlaws and lawmen.
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Optional activities like mine tours, stagecoach rides, and local saloons to further enhance their Tombstone experience.
Reenactment at the OK Corral
At the heart of the Tombstone visit lies the iconic reenactment of the shootout at the OK Corral. This thrilling 15-minute performance brings the legendary 1881 clash between the Earp brothers and the Clanton-McLaury gang to life.
Visitors gather around the historic site, eager to witness the dramatic gunfight that shaped the town’s notorious past. The reenactment features skilled actors, realistic costumes, and thunderous gunfire, immersing the audience in the Wild West atmosphere.
Following the show, guests can explore the Boot Hill Cemetery, where some of the participants of the legendary shootout are laid to rest.
Visiting Boot Hill Cemetery
Following the thrilling reenactment at the OK Corral, the tour heads to the nearby Boot Hill Cemetery. This historic graveyard is a chilling reminder of Tombstone’s violent past.
Visitors can:
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Explore the weathered headstones and epitaphs that offer glimpses into the lives and deaths of early Tombstone residents.
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Learn about the infamous "death’s door" style of grave markers used to deter grave robbers.
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Visit the graves of notorious outlaws like the McLaury brothers, killed in the gunfight at the OK Corral.
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Imagine the stories behind the rugged tombstones, evoking the Wild West atmosphere of this legendary town.
Optional Activities
What optional activities can visitors enjoy during the Tombstone & Bisbee Tour?
Along With the scheduled activities, the tour offers several optional experiences. Visitors can take a mine tour at the Copper Queen Mine in Bisbee, getting an up-close look at the area’s rich copper mining history.
For a taste of the Old West, guests can book a stagecoach ride in Tombstone.
They can also explore the local saloons, souvenir shops, and museums at their own pace during the free time in Tombstone.
These optional activities provide a well-rounded experience of the region’s culture and history.
Booking and Logistics
Booking the Tombstone & Bisbee Tour from Tucson is a straightforward process. This 8-hour adventure can be reserved with a few clicks:
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Select your desired tour date and the number of participants.
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Provide your contact information and choose a convenient hotel pickup location.
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Pay the $195 per person fee securely online or opt for the "Reserve Now, Pay Later" option.
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Receive your confirmation details and prepare to explore the historic Old West towns of Tombstone and Bisbee.
With a flexible cancellation policy and included amenities, this tour offers a hassle-free way to discover the best of southern Arizona.
Ask Away
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, the activities may not be suitable for very young children, so it’s recommended that parents use their discretion when booking the tour for families with young kids.
Can the Tour Accommodate Travelers With Disabilities?
The tour can accommodate travelers with disabilities, though it’s best to discuss any special needs with the tour operator in advance. They’ll work to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
What Types of Food and Beverage Options Are Available?
The tour provides complimentary bottled water, but doesn’t include any other food or beverage options. Travelers can purchase snacks and meals at their own expense during the stops in Bisbee and Tombstone.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Tour?
Yes, participants are encouraged to bring their own camera equipment to capture the sights and attractions throughout the tour. Photography is permitted, allowing visitors to document their Tombstone and Bisbee experiences.
How Much Time Is Allotted for Independent Exploration in Each Location?
The tour allows 1.5 hours for exploring Bisbee and 3.5 hours for exploring Tombstone independently. Participants can use this time to visit attractions, shops, and restaurants at their own pace during the tour.
Final Words
This captivating 9-hour tour from Tucson offers an unforgettable glimpse into the Wild West. Travelers can explore the historic towns of Tombstone and Bisbee, witness the thrilling OK Corral reenactment, and visit the iconic Boot Hill Cemetery. With a scenic desert drive and free time to discover local shops and saloons, this tour provides an immersive experience in the region’s rich mining history and frontier culture.
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