If you’re planning a trip to Tombstone and want a quick, engaging introduction to the charming town of Bisbee, the Old Bisbee City Cart Tour could be just what you need. Offered by B Active Bisbee, this one-hour guided golf cart ride promises to give you a solid overview of the area’s most notable landmarks, from historic hotels to colorful streets. While it won’t replace a day of wandering, it’s a smart way to get your bearings and decide where to explore further.
What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines easy transportation with entertaining storytelling. The guides aren’t just knowledgeable—they’re fun, adding personality to the tour that makes learning about Bisbee’s past feel like chatting with a friend. Plus, the tour’s short duration means you’re free to spend the rest of your day shopping, sightseeing, or soaking in the views on your own.
On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite compact, so if you’re someone who loves in-depth exploration or detailed history, you might find a one-hour round a little light. Also, since the carts are designed with some seats facing backward, it can be tricky to see everything clearly if you’re not facing forward, as some reviews mention.
All in all, this is a perfect fit for first-time visitors, those on a tight schedule, or travelers who want a friendly, informative overview without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a fun, efficient way to get to know Bisbee’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.
Key Points
- Short and sweet: a one-hour tour that’s perfect for quick orientation.
- Informative guides: knowledgeable storytellers who make history fun.
- Great for sightseeing: covers core landmarks and scenic spots.
- Flexible and easy: golf carts handle the hills and make touring comfortable.
- Cost-effective: around $46 per person offers good value.
- Limited depth: best for initial impressions, not in-depth history.
Why Choose the Old Bisbee City Cart Tour?
If you’re someone who loves to get a quick sense of a new place, this tour works well. It’s designed for folks who want clarity on where to go next without committing hours to wandering aimlessly. The 60-minute format is perfect for busy schedules or as a warm-up before exploring on your own.
The tour’s price point is quite reasonable, especially given the amount of info you gain from the guides. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are, making what could feel like a quick ride into a memorable experience. The fact that most travelers book about a week in advance signals how popular and well-rated this experience is.
The itinerary itself is straightforward but packed with interesting sights. You’ll visit the infamous Brewery Gulch, learn about the Copper Queen Hotel, and hear about the Old Bisbee High School, among other landmarks. Each stop is brief but rich enough to pique your curiosity and inspire further exploration.
Planning more time in Tombstone? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary in Detail
Brewery Gulch
Your first stop is the notorious Brewery Gulch, an area that holds stories of Bisbee’s colorful past. The stop itself is about five minutes, so you get a quick but vivid taste of the town’s spirited history. The reviews mention that guides do a fantastic job of sharing insider stories, which makes even a brief visit feel meaningful.
Copper Queen Hotel
Next, you’ll hear about this historic hotel, a fixture in the town’s landscape. With just five minutes here, you won’t have time to tour rooms, but the guide’s narration about its past is enough to bring the place alive. Expect to learn about its significance and maybe get some fun anecdotes.
Old Bisbee High School
This is another quick stop, but one packed with stories about its impact on the community. Guides tend to share interesting details, making it a highlight for architecture or education buffs alike.
Superior Court of Cochise County
Finally, you’ll explore the courthouse’s architecture and history. Its picturesque facade is a beacon of Bisbee’s heritage, and the brief stop allows you to appreciate its design while hearing some compelling backstories.
The Return
After these highlights, your cart loops back to the starting point, giving you an excellent overview and some ideas for further exploration on foot. The flexibility of the tour means you can choose to revisit places later or venture off into the town’s art galleries or shops.
Transportation and Group Size
The golf cart itself is pretty comfortable, especially considering the hilly terrain of Bisbee. Some reviews mention that the carts are designed with one row facing forward and the other backward, which can be a bit awkward. One reviewer suggested that facing forward would improve viewing, but overall, the carts do the job well enough.
Groups are kept to a maximum of five travelers, which keeps the experience personable and allows guides to provide individual attention. You’ll probably find that this small group setting fosters more engaging stories and easier questions.
Booking and Flexibility
Most travelers book about 8 days in advance, which suggests high demand. The tour offers mobile tickets, making it easy to secure your spot last-minute or plan ahead. Cancellation is free if you cancel 24 hours in advance, which adds a bit of peace of mind.
What the Reviews Say
The reviews are almost uniformly glowing, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 136 reviews. Many travelers praise the knowledge and personality of guides like John, Carrie, and David, who bring the history of Bisbee to life with humor and insight. Comments like “Our driver, David, was very knowledgeable and professional” and “John was an excellent guide” are common.
Guests also appreciate the scenic views, architecture, and street art seen along the route. “We saw beautiful architecture, local art, and some amazing views,” noted one reviewer. People also find the tour value for money, with many saying it provides a rundown that helps make their trip more meaningful.
A few reviewers mentioned small inconveniences, like the carts’ seating layout or a slow start due to some shop opening times, but these didn’t detract significantly from the experience. Guides often went above and beyond, extending the tour or answering extra questions.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
- Dress in layers—Bisbee’s weather can change quickly, and it can get windy or chilly.
- Be aware that the carts have seats facing backward, which might not suit everyone.
- Use this tour as a starting point—it’s perfect for orientation but consider exploring on foot afterward.
- Bring your camera or smartphone for photos of the architecture and street art.
- If you have specific interests like architecture or history, tell your guide—many are happy to share extra details.
- The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you plenty of time to continue sightseeing or shopping.
Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded glimpse of Bisbee’s highlights, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially good for first-timers who want a quick orientation without the hassle of navigating on their own. The small group size and engaging guides make it more of a friendly chat than a formal lecture.
Travelers who enjoy storytelling and scenic views will find this tour particularly appealing. It offers a good mix of architecture, local lore, and fun facts, making it suitable for those interested in the town’s past but not necessarily looking for an exhaustive history lesson.
However, if you’re someone who prefers detailed, in-depth exploration or wants to spend a lot of time at each site, this might feel a little rushed. Also, expect some brief stops rather than extended visits, so plan to go back later to fully experience the places you find most interesting.
FAQs About the Old Bisbee City Cart Tour
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately one hour, making it a quick but rundown of Bisbee’s highlights.
What is the price?
The tour costs about $46 per person, which many find reasonable given the guided storytelling and scenic route.
Where does the tour start?
You meet at B Active Bisbee & Refresh Bar at 86 Main St, Bisbee, AZ. The tour ends back at the same spot.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, most travelers of all ages seem to enjoy it. Just keep in mind the short duration and the outdoor, hill-heavy environment.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.
Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, it’s near public transit options, making it convenient to reach the meeting point.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for weather conditions—layering is recommended, especially for breezy days.
Will I see city landmarks?
Yes, highlights include Brewery Gulch, Copper Queen Hotel, Old Bisbee High School, and the Cochise County courthouse.
Is it a good way to get to know Bisbee quickly?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how helpful the tour is for orienting yourself before exploring on your own.
1-Hour Tour Old Bisbee City Cart
“Our driver, David, was very knowledgeable and professional. We learned a lot about Bisbee that we otherwise would not have known.”
Final Thoughts
The Old Bisbee City Cart Tour is a lively, well-rated way to get a snapshot of this quirky, historic town. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable storytellers, you’ll learn about key landmarks while enjoying the scenic hills and streets of Bisbee. Its short duration makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those new to the area who want a quick, fun overview.
The tour’s affordability and small group size are definite pluses, making for a personalized experience. Remember, it’s not a deep dive but a lively introduction—perfect for setting the stage for a more detailed exploration later. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, this ride can add a memorable touch to your Bisbee visit.
If you love engaging guides, scenic views, and learning fun stories about a town, this tour will leave you with a smile—and perhaps some new ideas for your next stop in Bisbee.
Ready for your Bisbee adventure? Book early, wear comfortable clothes, and enjoy the ride. This quick tour packs a punch for providing a memorable first look at one of America’s most charming towns.