Perched in the Mule Mountains near the Mexico border, Bisbee blends boomtown mining history with artsy, stair-laced neighborhoods and big desert views. Come for the mine tour and galleries; stay for the patios in Brewery Gulch, the vintage streets of Lowell, and sunsets from the red hills above town.
I recently explored some of the town’s little gems and can’t wait to show you the top things to do in Bisbee. In this guide, you’ll find the best places to eat, stay, and explore, plus insider tips for your next Arizona road trip stop.
Quick plans
One perfect day
- Copper Queen Mine Tour in the morning
- Walk Main Street shops and the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum
- Photo stop at the Lavender Pit overlook and vintage Erie Street in Lowell
- Late-day climb to the “B” on Chihuahua Hill
- Pints on a patio in Brewery Gulch
Weekender
- Day 1: Mine Tour → Museum → Old Bisbee wander + galleries
- Day 2: Youngblood & Chihuahua Hills loop → Lowell photo walk → brewery tastings → stair strolls (sample Bisbee 1000 segments)
Essential things to do
Ride the Copper Queen Mine Tour
- One of the top attractions in Bisbee: don a hard hat, board the mine train, and explore underground with former miners.
- Current posted tour times are typically 9:00, 10:30, 12:00, 2:00, and 3:30. Please reserve ahead and arrive 30 minutes early.
- Closed-toe shoes are required. Ages 0–5 aren’t permitted underground; posted rates are $16 for adults / $8 for ages 6–12 (subject to change—confirm before you go).
- Family tip: Pair a morning tour with an afternoon photo session in Lowell and sunset views from the hills.
Step into history at the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum
- A Smithsonian Affiliate located right on Copper Queen Plaza, the museum delves into the story of copper and the people who shaped Bisbee into the landscape of the mountainsides.
- Learn the town’s copper-mining past
- It’s a compact, kid-friendly stop that adds context to everything you’ll see in town.
Gaze into the Lavender Pit
- This dramatic open-pit mine is situated along AZ-80, between Old Bisbee and Lowell, with a designated overlook and interpretive signs.
- It’s a quick, worthwhile stop for its geology and scale (the pit dates from 1950 to 1974 and is named after Phelps Dodge’s GM, Harrison M. Lavender).
Photograph Erie Street in Lowell
- Just past the Lavender Pit, Lowell’s preserved storefronts and vintage vehicles make a perfect retro photo walk.
- Go early or late for softer light and fewer cars.
Climb a few of Bisbee’s famous stairs
- The town’s stairways lace steep neighborhoods; the annual Bisbee 1000 event links nine staircases (1,000+ steps) over a 4.5-mile route.
Catch the views from Chihuahua Hill (“B” Mountain)
- This is the red hill with the big “B” above town.
- The short, steep hike pays off with panoramas over Old Bisbee and the Lavender Pit.
Eat & drink
Breweries
- Old Bisbee Brewing Company (Brewery Gulch): Classic patio, house sodas, rotating beers; a great sunset stop above town.
- Electric Brewing (San José Square): Long-running microbrewery with taproom hours, live music, and in-house sodas/kombucha.
Coffee shops to visit in Bisbee
- Bisbee Coffee Company – In Copper Queen Plaza (2 Main / 2 Copper Queen Plaza). Counter-service coffee is available with a courtyard patio; the plaza occasionally features a small stage for live music. Open daily; check hours.
- Allen & Co Coffee Shop – New coffeehouse on Subway Street in Old Bisbee (took over the former Kafka location at 31 Subway St.). Espresso, matcha, and local pastries.
- Old Bisbee Roasters – Roastery just below Old Bisbee on Naco Rd; beans every day, and on weekends, the roaster often pulls free espresso shots at the shop. Not a full café or breakfast spot.
Love Coffee Shops? Check out Sedona’s Most Interesting Coffee Shops
Restaurants (Downtown & walkable from Old Bisbee)
- Café Roka – The locals say that this fine dining restaurant is so good that you have to make a reservation a day in advance.
- Le Cornucopia Cafe – A great lunch spot with great reviews and featured in Forbes as the best sandwich shop in Bisbee.
- Screaming Banshee Pizza – Wood-fired pies. If you want chicken wings, call ahead to confirm they’re available, as they may sell out.
- Thuy’s Noodle Shop – Fresh Vietnamese food in Bisbee.
- Bisbee’s Table – New American in the plaza off Main (pizzas, pastas, mains).
- Poco Restaurant + Market – Vegan restaurant & grocery, with a selection of wine and beer.
- High Desert Market and Cafe – Locally sourced grocery store, caf,e and bakery. The berry scones are amazing!
Nearby / not right in Old Bisbee (still worth it):
- Bisbee Breakfast Club – With 8 locations in Arizona, it is known for its classic Copper Queen Skillet or the Miner Burger.
- The Copper Pig – Upscale comfort food.
After Dark (bars, venues & live shows)
Finally, don’t forget to explore all that Bisbee offers after dark. With a vibrant nightlife scene, you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink, and dance the night away!
- St Elmo Bar – The oldest bar in Bisbee, with its iconic wooden exterior. Check out their pool tournament every Tuesday.
- Bisbee Grand Hotel – Frequent live music, themed nights; check the weekly lineup.
- Room 4 Bar – Listen to live music and order some tasty bar food at this spot. So if you’re looking for a night out, make sure to check out Bisbee’s vibrant nightlife scene – you won’t regret it!
- Chuckleheads – Pull up a seat at this popular comedy club and laugh the night away
- Copper Queen Saloon – Historic hotel bar; central and easy to find.
- Bisbee Royale – Hang out with locals or catch a live show at this downtown venue.
Bonus (beyond Old Bisbee core):
- Hitching Post – Local roadhouse with live music calendar.
- Guided Pub Crawl (Sean & Winnie) – Popular walking crawl through Old Bisbee bars.
So if you’re looking for some nightlife fun, explore Bisbee after dark – it’s the perfect way to end a great day in town!
Where to stay (central and walkable)
- Copper Queen Hotel – This historic hotel in Bisbee overlooks the bustling downtown and offers guests all the modern comforts of home.
- Letson Loft Hotel – This elegant boutique hotel overlooks Main St.
- Old Bisbee Inn – Located at the base of Brewery Gulch, this boutique hotel features quaint rooms adorned with antiques.
- Warner Hotel – located in in Old Bisbee / tucked off Main Street, 5 star – one of the best hotels in Bisbee and recently renovated.
- Hotel San Ramón – Boutique rooms at the corner of Brewery Gulch—steps to dining and shops.
You can also find vacation rentals in the hills — gorgeous views, but expect stairs.
Pro tip: If you’re staying in one of the hillside rentals, pack light with these space-saving travel cubes.
Nearby/unique stays
- The Shady Dell RV Park & Campground – Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, The Shady Dell features a collection of vintage Airstreams and unique camping experiences.
- Greenway Manor – Situated in the heart of historic Bisbee, this elegant bed and breakfast offers guests a luxurious escape.
Hikes & viewpoints (close to town)
- Chihuahua Hill (“B” Mountain): Short, steep climb, big views.
- Youngblood Hill: Shrine at the summit and connecting ridgeline to Chihuahua Hill; nice sunrise/sunset pairing.
- North Tombstone Canyon Loop: Mellow canyon walk/loop just north of town; good birding and shade pockets.
- Bisbee 1000 stairways (event/route): The famous 4.5-mile course links nine historic staircases (1,000+ steps). You can sample segments year-round; the race typically runs in October.
Pro tip: If you’re staying in one of the hillside rentals, pack light with these space-saving travel cubes.
Visit Historical Sites:
Bisbee has seen its share of history, and you can learn about the town’s past by visiting some of its most notable sites.
- Copper Queen Mine– Take an underground tour and discover Bisbee’s copper-mining heritage.
- Lavender Pit – A massive open-pit copper mine—now a favorite for hikers and photographers..
- Lowell – Walk through this preserved mining town with vintage cars and 1880s buildings. A must for vintage car lovers and photographers.
- Old Bisbee– Explore Victorian architecture, colorful homes, and charming shops.
- Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum– A Smithsonian-affiliated museum featuring Bisbee’s rich mining history. Learn the town’s copper-mining past.
- Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park-Step into the Old West at this 1882 courthouse museum.
- Bisbee Historic District– Wander through historic landmarks, including the Copper Queen Hotel.
From unique boutiques to vintage stores, Bisbee is the perfect place to go shopping. With an array of local shops and galleries, you can find something special for everyone.
Local Shops in Old Bisbee (downtown/Main St.)
- Miner’s & Merchant’s Antique Center – 3 floors, also known as “Floyd’s Store.”
- Classic Rock Couture – New and vintage threads. Awesome music and fun gifts.
- 55 Main Gallery – We went back to this place numerous times. The owner is lovely.
- Mercantile on Main– Boutique is located in the shopping mall in Bisbee.
- Andrew Laws Jeweler– Browse this shop’s collection of handmade goods from around the world.
Bisbee has something to offer, no matter what type of shopping experience you’re looking for. So don’t forget to explore the town’s unique stores and galleries – you never know what special finds you might stumble upon!
Pro Tip: Bring a small reusable tote (this foldable one fits in your pocket) for vintage finds from Main Street.
Visit Local Festivals in Bisbee
Experience Bisbee’s vibrant community through its local festivals and annual events. From live music and art shows to cultural and historical celebrations, there’s always something happening in this charming Arizona town.
Top Festivals in Bisbee
- Bisbee Pride Festival – A joyful June celebration of diversity and inclusion, featuring parades, live music, and community events.
- Sidepony Express Music Festival – A free, three-day indie music takeover across Old Bisbee each November. (2025 dates: November 7–9)
- Mariachi Festival – Held on November, with proceeds benefiting the Bisbee Coalition for the Homeless.
- Poetry in Bisbee – Celebrate National Poetry Month in April with readings and the Poetry Critique Society at the Copper Queen Library. Check the city events calendar for updates.
When to go (quick plan):
- June: Bisbee Pride. Bisbee Pride
- November (first Sat): Mariachi Festival.
- November (mid-month): Sidepony Express (citywide venues).
So whether you’re looking for music, art, or history, make sure to check out Bisbee’s local festivals – it’s a great way to experience the town!
Know before you go
- Parking: Old Bisbee is compact and hilly. Use public lots and signed street parking; spaces fill up quickly on weekends. Grab the community parking map before you arrive.
- Terrain & accessibility: Streets are steep, and many routes include stairs. For lower-mobility travelers, focus on flatter blocks of Main Street, museum stops, and scenic drives between neighborhoods.
- Seasons: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temps. Summer brings warm afternoons and monsoon bursts; winter is crisp but often sunny.
Things to bring: Be sure to pack sunscreen, a cooling towel, a lightweight hiking jacket, and a hat.
With teens / budget / low-mobility: quick picks
With teens: Mine Tour → Lowell’s Erie Street photo walk → Old Bisbee Brewing patio → sunset at the “B”.
Budget half-day: Stroll Main Street and galleries → Lavender Pit overlook → free stair segments and hill views.
Low-mobility friendly: Museum → Copper Queen Hotel lobby and nearby shops → scenic drives between overlooks and neighborhoods.
Bisbee Travel Tips
- Wear closed-toe shoes for mine tours.
- Pack water in a reusable bottle (this one keeps it cold all day) and
- bring a hat and broad spectrum unscreen— the sun hits hard on the red hills.
- Bring cash — some galleries and cafés are cash-only.
- Park once and walk; streets are narrow and hilly.
FAQs
How long is the mine tour, and what should I wear?
Plan for roughly 1–1.5 hours, door-to-door, with check-in; closed-toe shoes are required. Arrive early and book ahead, especially on weekends and holidays.
Is the “B” Mountain hike suitable for beginners?
It’s short but steep with loose footing in spots; go slow and bring water. Views are worth it.
Bisbee, Arizona, with its new look and exciting offerings, is a hidden gem that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. From live music and scenic drives to authentic Mexican cuisine and engaging historical experiences, this charming town has something for everyone.
Explore Bisbee’s favorite features, embrace the local spirit, and create lasting memories in this captivating destination. Plan your visit to Bisbee today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Arizona.
Check out the Bisbee Tourism Center
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