Bisbee

100 miles and 100 years from stockexchange Tucson, Bisbee is nestled in the spectacular Mule Mountains. Founded in 1880, the town of 6,500 permanent residents was once a booming and rowdy copper mining camp that also boasted rich deposits of gold and silver. Not only was Bisbee the most cultured spot between New Orleans and San Francisco, it was also home to the famed red-light district still known as Brewery Gulch.

In the early 1900s, Bisbee had a thriving population of over 20,000. When the mines closed in the mid 1970s, the town fell into a depressed era but was re-established as an artist community by the early 80s. It is now honored with many distinctive awards such as the National Trust of Historic Preservation which named Bisbee among the Dozen Distinctive Destinations and Travel Online as one of “the 10 coolest towns in the U.S.”

bisbee6

bisbee5

With the well-preserved Victorian houses on the steep slopes of Tombstone Canyon, miners’ shacks dotting the landscape, and grand brick buildings in the downtown area, Bisbee has retained the rustic Old West atmosphere perfectly blended with European charm. A visit to Bisbee is truly and adventure to be remembered.

Located nearly a mile high, Bisbee has an ideal climate both winter and summer. Temperatures average 20 degrees cooler than Phoenix and attract visitors for a variety of activities. The nearby Huachuca and oldbisbeemain Chiricahua Mountains offer excellent hiking trails while the San Pedro Riparian Area provides the best Birding opportunities in the southwest. A beautiful 18 hole golf course attracts golfers from near and far. Sunset Magazine recently declared that Bisbee was one of the 10 best towns in which to buy a home.

Be sure to visit the famous Stock Exchange Saloon while in Bisbee. Within walking distance are great restaurants, art galleries, shopping, and museums. The underground mine tour is a “must-do” and the helpful folks at the Visitors Center are more than happy to help you plan your day.

street4