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 – Fine dining; reservations recommended.
- Bisbee Badassery– a motorcycle themed restaurant with a menu featuring burgers, BBQ, sandwiches, salads, and an Ice cream shop and gift shop.
- Le Cornucopia Cafe – Famous Forbes-featured sandwich shop.
- Screaming Banshee Pizza – Wood-fired pies; wings may sell out. They are amazing- we went back for them the next day.
- Thuy’s Noodle Shop – Fresh Vietnamese.
- 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 – Café + grocery; amazing berry scones.
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)
- St Elmo Bar – Oldest bar in Bisbee; pool tournaments.
- Bisbee Grand Hotel – Live music + themed nights.
- Room 4 Bar – Live music + bar food.
- Chuckleheads – Comedy club.
- Copper Queen Saloon – Historic, central bar.
- Bisbee Royale – Events + shows.
- Hitching Post — Roadhouse with live music.
- Guided Pub Crawl (Sean & Winnie) — Popular guided walk.
Where to stay (central and walkable)
- Copper Queen Hotel – Historic, centrally located.
- Letson Loft Hotel – Elegant Boutique rooms overlooking Main St.
- Old Bisbee Inn – Antiques + charm at the base of Brewery Gulch.
- Warner Hotel – Renovated, 5-star feel in Old Bisbee
- Hotel San Ramón – Boutique rooms steps from dining.
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, huge views.
- Youngblood Hill: Shrine, ridge walk, sunrise/sunset favorite.
- North Tombstone Canyon Loop: haded canyon walk, good for birding.
- Bisbee 1000 stairways (event/route): The famous 4.5-mile course typically runs in October.
Shopping in Bisbee
- Miner’s & Merchant’s Antique Center – 3 floors, also known as “Floyd’s Store.”
- The Emporium — Tourist favorites and gifts.
- 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.
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
Bisbee Pride Festival (June) — Parade, music, community events.
Sidepony Express Music Festival (November) — Free, citywide indie music.
Mariachi Festival (November) — Benefits local homelessness programs.
Poetry in Bisbee (April) — Readings and events at Copper Queen Library.
- Bisbee Pride Festival (June) — Parade, music, community events.
- Sidepony Express Music Festival (November) — Free, citywide indie music.
- Mariachi Festival (November) — Benefits local homelessness programs.
- Poetry in Bisbee (April) — Readings and events at Copper Queen Library.
Know before you go
- Parking: Old Bisbee is compact and hilly; use public lots.
- Terrain: Expect steep streets and stairs.
- Weather: Spring/fall ideal; summer brings monsoons; winter is crisp.
- What to pack: Sunscreen, water bottle, hat, a cooling towel, light jacket.
- Access notes: Prioritize Main Street, museums, and scenic drives for low-mobility visitors.
Quick picks (For Travelers)
With Teens: Mine Tour → Erie St. photo walk → Brewing patio → sunset at “B”.
Budget Half-Day: Main St. stroll → Lavender Pit → free stair segments.
Low-Mobility: Museum → Copper Queen Hotel → scenic drives.
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?
Allow 1–1.5 hours; wear closed-toe shoes and arrive early.
Is the “B” Mountain hike beginner-friendly?
Yes, but it’s steep with loose gravel; go slow and bring water.
Check out the Bisbee Tourism Center
Final Thoughts
Bisbee is a hidden gem that blends history, art, and dramatic desert scenery. From vibrant vintage streets to incredible sunset viewpoints, this little mountain town has something for everyone. Plan your trip, explore its charm, and soak up the quirky Southwest magic that makes Bisbee unforgettable.
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