Friday: Tombstone & Bisbee; 9h Tour bus from Tucson

If you’re craving a taste of Arizona’s legendary frontier past, this day trip from Tucson to Tombstone and Bisbee offers an authentic peek into the Old West. With guided visits, underground mine tours, historic reenactments, and plenty of free time to explore, it’s a balanced mix of education and entertainment. We love that this tour combines scenic drives with immersive experiences—perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a fun, full-day adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that the schedule is tight, and free time can feel a bit rushed if you want to shop or linger in shops. But if you enjoy guided insights and a taste of frontier life, this trip hits the mark. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this tour suits those who love history, vibrant western towns, and outdoor exploration.

Who will love this?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, cowboy culture fans, and travelers who appreciate guided tours that balance structured activities with free exploration. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer comfort—since you’ll be riding in a climate-controlled van and have some included entry tickets—and for those new to the area wanting a rundown in one day.

Key Points

Authentic Wild West Experience: Visit Tombstone and Bisbee, towns filled with legends, reenactments, and mining history.
Guided & Flexible: Enjoy expert commentary as well as free time to wander, shop, or relax.
Underground Adventure: Ride a mine train through the Copper Queen Mine, discovering real mining operations underground.
Historic Landmarks Included: Entry into Boot Hill Cemetery and OK Corral is covered, giving you a true sense of frontier history.
Comfort & Convenience: Transportation in a climate-controlled van, with bottled water included, makes for a comfortable day.
Limited Group Size: Smaller groups (up to 13) mean more personalized attention and better chances to ask questions.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off near the Starbucks at Park Place Mall on Broadway Blvd. We appreciate the convenience of a centrally located meeting spot—no need for complicated pickups. From there, you’ll board a comfortable van, which is equipped to keep you cool while you enjoy the scenery. The drive through the Sonoran Desert lasts about 100 minutes, during which you’ll pass the famous Boneyard, where retired military and commercial aircraft are stored, along with stunning desert vistas.

This part of the trip sets the tone with sweeping views and a sense of anticipation for the frontier towns ahead. Plus, you get a glimpse of the rugged landscape that shaped Arizona’s history.

Exploring Bisbee

Your first stop is Bisbee, a charming former mining town turned artist enclave, known for its quirky vibe and rich copper history. You’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore at your own pace, giving you enough time to soak in the town’s atmosphere, browse local shops, or grab a quick bite.

Before arriving, you might notice the town’s colorful buildings and eclectic storefronts—an inviting contrast to the rugged desert outside. The tour includes a stop at the Copper Queen Mine, where you can learn about one of the most significant copper mines in the region. Afterwards, you’ll hop onto a mine train for an underground tour through the actual copper mine. This is a highlight, especially because you descend underground into a cool, darker environment, so bringing a light sweater or jacket is recommended.

One reviewer noted that the mine tour was “so much fun and very intriguing,” and the guide was both informative and humorous, making the underground experience engaging and accessible.

Journey to Tombstone

After Bisbee, the group heads toward Tombstone, arriving around lunchtime. This town is the heart of the Old West legend, famous for Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the infamous shootout at the OK Corral. You’ll have about 3 hours of free time to explore, giving you options beyond just watching the reenactment.

Included is a ticket to the OK Corral reenactment scheduled at 1 pm, which many consider a must-see. It offers a lively, dramatized glimpse into frontier justice, and it’s a fun way to step back into the wild days of gunfights and outlaws.

For a more immersive experience, you can visit the Birdcage Theatre, which is known for its live performances and preservation of old showbiz. Or, consider a quick drink at Big Nose Kate’s Saloon or the Crystal Palace, both charming spots with authentic vibe. If history piques your interest, you might also take an optional tour of Tombstone’s old Silver Mine or visit the original Tombstone Courthouse and its gallows.

The included free time allows for shopping for western souvenirs, taking photos, or simply soaking up the dusty, historic atmosphere. Yet, a review pointed out that “it was good, but I wish there was more free time,” especially for exploring shops or enjoying the town’s eateries.

Boot Hill and Return Journey

At 3 pm, the tour departs Tombstone, with a stop at Boot Hill Cemetery—the final resting place for many legendary outlaws and lawmen. The entry is included, and it’s fascinating to see the graves of infamous figures from the Old West.

The drive back to Tucson takes about 70 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen. The tour ends at the original meeting point, wrapping up an 8-hour journey through Arizona’s frontier past.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour offers excellent value if you’re interested in a comprehensive day trip. Included are guide services, transportation in a climate-controlled van, free time in Tombstone, and entry tickets to Boot Hill Cemetery and the OK Corral. These are significant highlights, especially considering that the reenactment and mine tour are included at this price point.

However, food is not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan for a quick lunch—there are plenty of options in Tombstone, from casual eateries to saloons. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also not part of the package, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately, especially if planning to do the underground mine tour—bring a light sweater.
The van isn’t equipped for wheelchairs or strollers, so consider your mobility needs.
The group size is limited to 13, which means more personalized attention but also requires early booking.
The cost is $195 per person, which offers good value for the combination of guided, self-guided, and underground experiences.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

One reviewer, Lainey, shared that “the reenactment of the OK Corral was just like I remembered from 20 years ago,” reflecting how some experiences stand the test of time and remain special. She also appreciated the underground copper mine tour, calling it “so much fun and very intriguing,” thanks to the guide’s humor and knowledge.

However, she also noted that “more free time to explore” would have improved her experience, especially for shopping or wandering without feeling rushed. This echoes the overall sentiment that the schedule is somewhat tight but packed with highlights.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those wanting a rich, day-long immersion into Arizona’s Old West. If you love history, enjoy guided storytelling, or want to combine scenic desert views with authentic frontier towns, you’ll find this trip satisfying. It’s also great for families or small groups seeking a comfortable, educational outing with some fun underground exploration.

On the flip side, if you prefer leisurely exploration without time constraints or a more flexible itinerary, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. But for most travelers craving a snapshot of Wild West legends, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This Tombstone and Bisbee day trip from Tucson offers a solid combination of history, adventure, and local charm, all within a manageable 8-hour window. The guided elements, like the reenactment and underground mine tour, add value, while the free time allows you to tailor your experience—whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the included tickets make it a straightforward, hassle-free option. While a bit more free time would be welcome, the overall package provides a well-rounded glimpse into Arizona’s rugged frontier past.

For those seeking a true taste of cowboy country with plenty of stories, sights, and authentic experiences, this tour is a worthwhile choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour begins at a central meeting point near the Starbucks at Park Place Mall. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting spot.

How long is the drive from Tucson to Bisbee and Tombstone?
The scenic drive from Tucson to Bisbee takes about 100 minutes, and the return trip from Tombstone back to Tucson is approximately 70 minutes.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, admission into Boot Hill Cemetery, OK Corral, and the Copper Queen Mine tour are all included in the price.

What should I bring on the underground mine tour?
A light sweater or jacket is recommended because it’s underground and can be cooler. Closed-toe shoes are required; open-toed shoes or high heels aren’t allowed.

How much free time will I have in Tombstone?
You’ll have about 3 hours to explore the town at your own pace, which includes the reenactment, visiting shops, or grabbing a bite.

Can I participate in other activities?
Yes, additional activities like visiting the Silver Mine or taking a trolley tour are available for purchase separately in Tombstone.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children should be fine, but note that the mine tour has restrictions on footwear, and the underground environment might not be ideal for very young children.

What’s the best way to prepare for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a light jacket for underground tours, and plan your meals since food isn’t included. Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.

In summary, this Tombstone & Bisbee day trip offers a well-rounded, engaging experience into Arizona’s iconic Wild West past. It balances guided storytelling with free exploration, making it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a mix of history, adventure, and scenic beauty—all within a single day.