A day trip to Bisbee

Bisbee is a former copper mining town in southeastern Arizona, with steep streets, old brick buildings, shops and galleries. It is best on foot, and it works as a long day trip from Tucson or as an overnight stay from the Valley. The directory lists Bisbee shops, hotels and attractions, each with a phone number.

A simple plan for the day

Morning. Drive in early. Bisbee is roughly an hour and a half from Tucson and farther from Phoenix, so a day trip from the Valley is long. Many Phoenix visitors stay overnight.

Late morning. Park and walk through Old Bisbee. The streets are narrow and hilly, with stairs, so wear comfortable shoes. Pick a few shops and galleries, and do not try to see everything.

Lunch. Eat in town. Hotels like the Copper Queen Hotel, built in 1902, list a restaurant and a saloon.

Afternoon. Shop and look at local products. The Killer Bee Guy sells raw honey, honey butters, mustards and bee pollen, and removes problem hives in Southeastern Arizona. Take a short rest in the shade, or sit in a cafe.

Evening. If you can, stay the night. Letson Loft Hotel is a historic boutique hotel in Old Bisbee, close to shops, galleries, restaurants and bars.

Places to go in Bisbee

Here are the shops, attractions, lodging, museums and bars you can browse:

Tips for Bisbee

• Wear good shoes. Old Bisbee is hilly, and some streets have long stairways.
• Park once. Parking in the old town can be tight, so use a lot or a street outside the busiest blocks and walk.
• Expect cooler air than the Valley. Bisbee is at a higher elevation, but summer afternoons are still warm. Bring water and a hat.
• Watch for monsoon storms. Afternoon storms can bring heavy rain and lightning in July and August.
• Call ahead. Small shops keep their own hours, and some close on weekdays.
• Book lodging early on weekends. Old hotels have a limited number of rooms.

How long should you spend in Bisbee?

A day is enough to walk the old town, eat and browse. Staying overnight lets you see it in the evening, when it is cooler and quieter.

Questions people ask

Is Bisbee worth a day trip from Phoenix?

It is a long drive, so many people from the Valley stay overnight. From Tucson it is an easier day trip.

What is Bisbee known for?

It grew around copper mining, and today it is known for its historic buildings, galleries and shops. The list above shows places to stay, shop and visit.

Where can I stay in Bisbee?

The directory lists historic hotels in town, including Copper Queen Hotel and Letson Loft Hotel. Call to ask about rooms and availability.

Plan your trip with the trip planner, see the weekend trips guide, or browse places in Bisbee.