Bisbee Attractions

Bisbee began as a mining camp in 1877 and developed into a prosperous little town. When the mine closed the town became little more than a ghost town. Squatters took over some of the abandoned miners cabins that lined the hillsides surrounding the main town center and the place became a haven for hippies. Eventually, artists began to flow into the area and Bisbee became known as an artists colony.

Today Bisbee is once again thriving as a major tourist destination, particularly for day trippers from surrounding towns and cities like Tucson, Tubac, and Tombstone. The historic old town center is now filled with shops and galleries. The grand old hotels have been renovated and are open for business. The early 1900s miners' cabins have largely been restored and are homes with much character. Built as they are on the hillside, many of these homes are not located on streets but off stairways that run up the hills.

The famous Copper Queen Mine and the Lavender Pit, along with the associated museums are now some of the town's biggest attractions. Bisbee also has several coffee roasting companies and the smell of roasting beans wafts through town and you can also get a free sample on a walk through downtown.

Despite the town's dramatic come back Bisbee has retained a very small town feel and locals still live very modest life styles.