If you’re dreaming of stepping back into the days of cowboys, outlaws, and frontier towns, this Friday: Tombstone & Bisbee tour might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a full-day adventure that promises a blend of history, stunning desert vistas, and a touch of Old West excitement—all from the comfort of a climate-controlled van. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the reviews, itinerary, and descriptions give us a pretty clear picture of what to expect.
What we really like about it is how it balances structured activities with free time, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of a copper mine train ride and reenactments like the OK Corral shootout adds that immersive, fun element that makes history come alive. On the flip side, a potential downside is that the tour’s schedule can feel a bit tight—especially if you’re a slow explorer or traveling with kids who might want more time to sift through shops or soak in the atmosphere.
It’s best suited for history buffs, fans of the Wild West, or anyone eager to see iconic Arizona sites without the hassle of planning each detail. If you like guided experiences that hit the high points but also leave space for your own discoveries, this tour could be a good fit.
Key Points
- Comfortable transportation with a climate-controlled van and water included
- Includes important sites like Boot Hill Cemetery and the OK Corral reenactment
- Free time in Tombstone allows for personalized exploration
- Engaging underground copper mine tour via train
- Small group size (limited to 13 participants) for a more intimate experience
- Good value considering transportation, entry fees, and guided insights
The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience
Starting bright and early, the tour departs from the centrally located Park Place Mall in Tucson, making it easy to meet your guide without the hassle of long commutes. From there, you’ll board a comfortable van and head out into the striking landscapes of the Sonoran Desert. The scenery alone—desert plains dotted with cacti and distant mountain ranges—is worth the trip. You’ll also pass by the Bone Yard, a fascinating reminder of Arizona’s aviation history.
Drive through the Sonoran Desert and Bisbee
The drive offers a chance to settle in and get a feel for the region’s rugged beauty. Bisbee, a former mining town turned artsy haven, is your first stop. The route takes you through historic streets with plenty of character, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Copper Queen Mine & Underground Train Ride
One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the Copper Queen Mine. You’ll hop aboard a train and venture into an actual copper mine—an exciting way to see how miners worked and lived. The underground portion requires you to bring a light sweater or jacket, as it gets cool down there, and shoes should be closed-toe, avoiding heels or open-toed footwear. The experience isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a glimpse into the industrial past of this region.
Arriving in Tombstone
Around midday, you’ll arrive in Tombstone, the legendary frontier town famous for its Wild West reputation. You’ll have about three hours to explore on your own. During this free time, you can visit the OK Corral for the reenactment scheduled at 1 pm, which many reviews agree is a real highlight. It’s a lively, colorful retelling of one of the most famous shootouts in American history.
Other options include browsing local shops, grabbing a meal, or listening to live music at places like Big Nose Kate’s Saloon or enjoying a drink at the Crystal Palace. If you’re interested in more history, tickets to the Birdcage Theatre or the Silver Mine via the trolley tour are easy add-ons, offering deeper dives into Tombstone’s past.
More Great Tours NearbyBoot Hill & Return to Tucson
At 3 pm, the group departs Tombstone, with a stop at Boot Hill Cemetery included in your ticket. Here, you’ll see where the outlaws who lost in gunfights were laid to rest, providing a gritty, poignant look at the Old West’s violent side.
The journey back to Tucson takes you through more scenic desert vistas, and the trip concludes at your starting point, leaving you with lasting images of the Wild West and Arizona’s rugged beauty.
What the Tour Includes & What It Doesn’t
The tour provides a lot of value. Your guide offers insights and context, making the experience more meaningful. Transportation in a comfortable, climate-controlled van, plus admission to Boot Hill Cemetery and OK Corral, are all included. You also get free time in Tombstone to explore as you wish, and a bottled water to stay refreshed.
However, it’s important to note what’s not covered. There’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point at Park Place Mall yourself. Plus, entry tickets for optional attractions—like the Silver Mine or Birdcage Theatre—are not included, so those are extra if you choose to explore further. Food is on you, so plan accordingly—while plenty of eateries are available, you’ll want to budget some time and money for lunch.
What Real Travelers Say
Feedback from past participants is generally positive, with a 4.4 out of 5 rating based on 7 reviews. Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the fun, immersive activities like the copper mine train ride. One reviewer noted the guide was especially funny and informative, making the underground tour particularly engaging.
Some travelers, like Lainey, mentioned wishing for more free time in Tombstone to browse shops or enjoy gelato, especially when traveling with kids. She also pointed out that the schedule felt a bit tight for those wanting to linger longer.
Others, such as Debra and Owen, praised the flexibility and friendliness of the guides. Owen highlighted the “excellent” guide, Gracey, who made the experience engaging and memorable.
The Practical Side: Benefits & Considerations
At $250 per person for an 8-hour adventure, this tour offers solid value given the transportation, guided commentary, and entry fees. It’s a convenient way to tick off two iconic Arizona towns without the hassle of planning each detail. The small group size (limited to 13) ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and it fosters a more personalized experience.
That said, it’s not ideal for those who prefer a leisurely pace or want to do extensive shopping or sightseeing on their own. The schedule is pretty packed, and the underground copper mine involves stairs and enclosed spaces, which could be challenging for some.
Is This Tour Right for You?
If you love history, enjoy guided stories, and want to experience Tombstone’s legendary shootout and Bisbee’s mining past, this tour is a good pick. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate a mix of structured activities and free exploration, and who don’t mind a busy day. Families with older children should find it manageable, but younger kids might find the pace a little quick.
It’s best for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free snapshot of Arizona’s Old West, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights.
Final Thoughts
This Tombstone & Bisbee tour offers a well-rounded taste of Arizona’s frontier history, combining guided explanations, authentic sites, and the fun of a copper mine train ride. It’s not a laid-back day, but for those eager to see iconic towns and historical sites without the stress of planning every detail, it hits many marks.
While the schedule can feel a bit tight for some, the value of the included experiences and the opportunity to walk through real historic sites make it worthwhile. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fun day trip, this adventure captures the rugged spirit of the Wild West with enough flexibility for personal exploration.
Friday: Tombstone & Bisbee; 9h Tour bus from Tucson
FAQ
Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, you’ll need to meet the guide near the Starbucks at Park Place Mall, as hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
How long is the drive from Tucson?
The tour includes a scenic drive into the desert and towns, with the entire trip lasting about 8 hours.
Are meals included?
No, food isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan to buy lunch during your free time in Tombstone.
What should I wear or bring?
Bring closed-toe shoes for the mine tour and a light sweater or jacket for the underground portions. Sunscreen and hats are a good idea for the desert sun.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children who are interested in history or enjoy walking should find it engaging. Smaller kids might find the schedule a bit fast.
How many people participate in the tour?
It’s a small group experience limited to 13 participants, making it more personalized.
What’s the main highlight?
Many say the reenactment of the OK Corral and the underground copper mine tour are the standout moments.
Can I explore Tombstone on my own?
Yes, you’ll have about three hours of free time to explore shops, museums, or grab a bite.
Are optional attractions available?
Yes, you can purchase additional tickets for attractions like the Birdcage Theatre or the Silver Mine.
Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
If you’re after a day filled with history, adventure, and a glimpse into the Wild West, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Arizona’s iconic towns without the fuss of organizing it yourself.
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