A Self Guided Audio Tour in Tombstone

Introducing the Self-Guided Audio Tour in Tombstone

If you’re dreaming of walking through one of America’s most iconic Wild West towns without the hassle of guided groups or hefty prices, this self-guided audio tour in Tombstone might just fit the bill. Priced at $9.99 per person, it offers a flexible way to explore the historic streets at your own pace, complete with engaging stories told by local historian Jim Turner.

One thing we really like about this experience is its affordability and convenience. For less than ten dollars, you get lifetime access to a detailed audio guide that works offline—meaning you don’t need Wi-Fi or data once downloaded. Plus, the ability to start, stop, and revisit points along the route makes it a versatile option for those who love to take their time. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that entry to the O.K. Corral Historic Complex requires a separate ticket, so if that’s a must-see on your list, you’ll need to budget for that in addition.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, independent travelers, and families who enjoy a more personal, paced exploration without the pressure of a group. It’s also great for those who want a flexible itinerary and prefer to listen at their leisure—whether on the street or at home before or after their visit.

Key Points

• Flexible and affordable: Cost-effective at just under $10 with lifetime access.
• Self-paced exploration: Start and stop anytime, with offline access for convenience.
• Rich storytelling: Narration by Jim Turner offers insights into Tombstone’s Wild West past.
• Detailed stops: Passes by notable landmarks like Wyatt Earp’s Saloon, Bird Cage Theater, and the Cochise County Courthouse.
• Additional costs: Entrance to the O.K. Corral requires a separate ticket.
• Ideal for independent travelers seeking a personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Tombstone Audio Tour

This self-guided audio tour takes you through Tombstone’s streets, offering a detailed narrative that brings the Old West town to life. It’s designed to be a comprehensive walk lasting about one to one-and-a-half hours, but you can easily extend your visit by lingering at particular stops or revisiting sections of the tour.

How the Tour Works

Once you purchase your ticket for $9.99, you’ll receive a unique code and instructions to download the VoiceMap app on your smartphone—compatible with both Android and iOS. The app is straightforward: once you’re at the starting point, the directions and GPS will guide you, and you simply pop in your headphones and tap “start.” The GPS-driven playback means you don’t need to watch the screen constantly, allowing you to focus on the scenery and stories.

This setup is a big plus for those who prefer hands-free exploration and don’t want the fuss of carrying paper maps or following a group. Plus, since the app works offline, you won’t have to worry about cellular connectivity in this historic town.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the Bird Cage Theatre, one of Tombstone’s most famous landmarks, the tour begins with stories about its notorious past as a lawless den of gambling and prostitution. The narration is engaging, with Jim Turner sharing anecdotes that are both informative and entertaining. The walk then takes you down Allen Street, where you’ll pass by several notable establishments and hear tales about their significance.

A highlight is the passing by Wyatt Earp’s Oriental Saloon & Theater, which some reviews note as a good opportunity to hear stories about Tombstone’s legendary lawman. The tour also covers the post-1882 fire that devastated the town, noting the buildings like the Crystal Palace and the Cochise County Courthouse that were rebuilt afterwards.

You’ll pass by the Can-Can Old Time Photos and Fly’s Photography Gallery, places that add to the nostalgic feel of Tombstone. Along the way, stories about Four Deuces Saloon, the Longhorn Restaurant, and Big Nose Kates Saloon help paint a picture of the town’s lively old-time atmosphere.

Further stops include Tombstone City Park, Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, and the Tombstone Visitor’s Center. The narration often includes interesting facts, such as the location of the world’s largest rose bush at Shady Lady, giving you more than just surface-level sightseeing.

Authenticity and Reviewer Insights

Many reviewers appreciate the storytelling quality of the narration. One reviewer, Ken C., noted, “Hearing the many stories about how life during this time period was so different from what we know today,” which hints at the engaging historical context provided. Elaine H. found it “an inexpensive way to get lots of information,” highlighting the tour’s value for those wanting depth without a guided group.

Some minor points to consider are that since the tour does not include admission to attractions like O.K. Corral, travelers should plan accordingly if that site is on their list. The tour mainly passes by the exterior, offering stories rather than access, which works well for those wanting a visual and historical overview without additional costs.

Practical Aspects and Value

The price point of $9.99 is quite reasonable, especially when considering the lifetime access and offline usability. For travelers on a budget or those who prefer to explore on their own terms, it offers excellent value—more than just a passive listening experience, it’s an opportunity to learn at your own pace.

The duration of 1 to 1.5 hours makes it accessible for most schedules. Whether you want a quick introduction or a leisurely walk, you can easily tailor your experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for independent explorers who appreciate a well-narrated history, enjoy walking at their own pace, and prefer the flexibility of digital guides. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples looking to learn about Tombstone’s history without feeling rushed or confined to a group.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a low-cost, flexible, and engaging way to discover Tombstone’s historic streets, this self-guided audio tour hits most of the right notes. It’s especially suited for those with a curiosity about the Old West who want to avoid crowds or expensive guided tours. The narration by Jim Turner adds authenticity, and the pass-by stops give a good sense of the town’s atmosphere, even if it doesn’t include entry to some key attractions like the O.K. Corral.

The ability to listen offline and control your pace makes this experience versatile. While it’s not a substitute for visiting attractions that require tickets (like the O.K. Corral), it offers a rundown that deepens your appreciation of Tombstone’s colorful past.

In sum, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, independently paced guide that enriches your walk through Tombstone, this tour provides a thoughtful and entertaining way to do so.

FAQs

Does this tour include access to the O.K. Corral?
No, the tour only passes by the O.K. Corral exterior. Entrance tickets are sold separately if you want to go inside.

Is the tour available on mobile devices?
Yes, it works via the VoiceMap app on both Android and iOS devices.

Can I do the tour at any time?
Absolutely. You can start the tour whenever you like within its open hours, and you can pause and resume as needed.

Is this a group tour?
No, this is a private, self-guided experience. Only your group will participate.

How long does the tour last?
It takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, but you can spend as much or as little time at each stop as you prefer.

Do I need internet during the tour?
No, once you’ve downloaded the tour, it works offline, which is great for areas with poor signal.

What’s the price?
The tour costs $9.99 per person, offering lifetime access and the ability to listen repeatedly.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, if you want to visit attractions like the O.K. Corral, you’ll need to buy separate entry tickets.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, especially those interested in history and storytelling, but parental discretion is advised for very young children due to the length and content.

To sum it up, this self-guided audio tour of Tombstone offers a compelling, flexible way to learn about the Old West without breaking the bank. It’s a smart choice for adventurous souls who enjoy walking, storytelling, and exploring at their own pace. With a solid balance of historical detail and practical usability, it’s an experience that can deepen your appreciation for this legendary town, all while fitting comfortably into your travel plans.