Bisbee is a small city located in the southeastern part of Arizona. The town is nestled in the Mule Mountains and is known for its historic charm, unique architecture, and vibrant arts community. Only a 3 hour drive from Phoenix, the former copper mining town is a great place to explore. So read on and plan your perfect weekend trip to Bisbee Arizona!
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BISBEE TRAVEL TIPS
How to get to Bisbee:
By Air: The closest major airport to Bisbee is Tucson International Airport (TUS), located approximately 95 miles northwest of Bisbee. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to Bisbee.
By Car: The most common way to get to Bisbee is by driving from nearby cities in Arizona. If you are coming from Tucson, the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you are arriving from Phoenix the drive is just a little over 3 hours.
Best Time of Year to Visit Bisbee:
The best time of year to visit Bisbee, largely depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. Here’s an overview of the weather and events during different seasons:
Spring (March to May):
Spring in Bisbee is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s. This season brings beautiful wildflowers, making it an excellent time for hiking and outdoor exploration. Additionally, Bisbee hosts various events and festivals during spring, such as the Bisbee Historic Home Tour and the Bisbee Film Festival.
Summer (June to August):
Summers in Bisbee can be hot, with temperatures ranging from the 80s to 90s. However, due to its higher elevation, Bisbee tends to be slightly cooler than many other parts of Arizona, which can make it a nice escape from the heat. However, despite the warm weather, summer is a popular time for visitors due to school vacations and the lively atmosphere in town.
Fall (September to November):
Fall in Bisbee offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s. The fall foliage adds vibrant colors to the surrounding landscape, making it a scenic time to visit. Bisbee also hosts events like the Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb, the Bisbee Blues Festival, and the Bisbee After 5 Artwalk during this season, which can increase accommodation pricing.
Winter (December to February):
Winter in Bisbee is mild, but temperatures can vary. Daytime temperatures range from the 50s to 60s, while evenings can be chilly, dropping into the 30s and 40s. Winter is a quieter season in Bisbee, making it a great time to explore the town at a slower pace. The annual Bisbee Home Tour takes place in December, showcasing beautifully decorated homes.
Overall, spring and fall are popular times to visit Bisbee due to the pleasant weather, outdoor activities, and the occurrence of various events and festivals. However, if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, winter can also be a good option.
How Many Days to Spend in Bisbee:
Bisbee can be explored in one to four days. This itinerary is designed for a 3-day weekend trip. I enjoyed spending 3 days in Bisbee. I was able to see everything at a leisurely pace and had a relaxing time! However, you can easily tailor the trip to just one or two days. Just depends on how much you want to see and do.
Other Random Tips:
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WHERE TO STAY IN BISBEE
Bisbee, Arizona offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Below are some popular options for places to stay in Bisbee:
- Historic Hotels: Bisbee is known for its historic charm, and staying in one of the town’s historic hotels can enhance your experience.
- Bed and Breakfasts or Guesthouses: Bisbee has several charming bed and breakfast establishments that provide a cozy and intimate stay. They often offer personalized service and a homely ambiance. Consider options like the Letson Loft Hotel or the Bisbee Brownstone Suites.
- Vacation Rentals: Most visitors to Bisbee opt for vacation rentals, which can be a great choice if you prefer more space and privacy. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have a range of options, including cottages, houses, and apartments.
Mel’s Note: The roads in Bisbee are very steep, so keep that in mind when picking a place to stay. Another good thing to keep in mind is if parking is included. Parking on the streets can be limited and are usually on a first come first serve basis.
WEEKEND TRIP TO BISBEE – DAY ONE
Arrive to Bisbee in the early evening. Check into your accommodation, and head into the town for a bite to eat, I linked a few restaurant options in the Bisbee GoogleMap.
After dinner make your way to the Bisbee Seance Room for an incredible magic show! The magician will tell ghost stories about Bisbee and performs magic tricks that tie into the stories and history of the town. The Bisbee Seance room was actually voted one of the top things to do in Arizona! Call to make reservations in advance, or if you are visiting during slow season you can just pop your head in before the show to buy tickets.
DAY TWO – WEEKEND TRIP TO BISBEE
Good morning! Wake up early and climb the Bisbee 1000. The Bisbee 1000 is the most unique walk (or fitness challenge if you would like to run) in the USA. The hike takes you through Bisbee’s narrow streets and numerous sets of stairs. I know the name sounds intimidating, but it is truly a great way to see the scenic parts of Bisbee. The entire trek is less than 5 miles long, but you can easily just walk part of it.
If you ever actually want to participate in the Great Stair Climb challenge, visit Bisbee in October! More details on the race can be found here.
After your hike, have a well-earned brunch at Cafe Cornucopia.
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN BISBEE
Now it is time to explore downtown Bisbee! Take your time and stroll through the local shops, art galleries, olive oil stores, and museums. Bisbee is an eclectic town. Remember to use the Weekend Trip to Bisbee GoogleMap with all the pinned locations to easily find everything.
Bisbee Restoration Museum
The Bisbee Restoration Museum provides insight into the mining industry that shaped Bisbee’s development. It houses exhibits on mining equipment, minerals, artifacts, and the town’s history. The museum offers a comprehensive look into the mining operations, the lives of miners, and the impact of mining on the community.
Muheim Heritage House Musuem
Bisbee is home to the Muheim Heritage House Museum, which is a restored Victorian-era home that provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of a prominent Bisbee family in the early 1900s. The museum showcases period furnishings, household items, and exhibits on Bisbee’s social history.
Enjoy a Treat
Pop into the bright pink building to try a delicious treat at the French-inspired bakery, Patisserie Jacqui. Some of the signature items include the lemon bars and the Bisbee-inspired Lavender Pit Brownies. The “cruffin,” a cross between a croissant and a muffin, is another great option to try! Regardless of what you order, you will not be disappointed by anything on the menu.
Bisbee Mining Museum
The Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum offers a wide range of exhibits and displays that illustrate the mining operations, techniques, and lives of miners. You can explore various galleries featuring mining equipment, minerals, photographs, and artifacts related to the mining industry.
The museum also delves into the social and cultural aspects of the mining community, providing insights into the lives of the miners and their families. The exhibits highlight the challenges, triumphs, and daily routines of those who worked in the mines.
Street Art
To explore the street art in Bisbee, I suggest taking a walk through the historic downtown area and its surrounding neighborhoods. Many of the streets and alleys feature colorful and unique artwork created by local and visiting artists. Some popular spots for street art in Bisbee include Brewery Gulch, the main streets like Main Street and Tombstone Canyon Road, as well as various alleys and hidden corners.
The best way to discover the street art in Bisbee is to wander around and explore the town on foot. You’ll come across a wide range of styles and themes, reflecting the creativity and spirit of the community.
Old Bisbee Brewing Company
After a day of touring, have a beer on the outdoor patio and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bisbee.
Old Bisbee Brewing Company features a taproom where you can sample the brewery’s beers in a casual and relaxed setting. The bar often has a rotating selection of beers on tap, including different styles and seasonal brews.
Dinner: Cafe Roka
Do not fill up on too much beer! Tonight you will have an elegant, yet laid-back dinner at Cafe Roka. Cafe Roka is located in a historic building overlooking downtown Bisbee. The vibrant cafe offers a delicious menu and weekly live jazz! Make sure to make reservations in advance, this place is popular, and for good reason!
Night Out
Looking to have a night out? St Elmo Bar is a great dive bar option. Another great place is the Bisbee Social Club, which is more of a speakeasy-inspired cocktail lounge.
WEEKEND TRIP TO BISBEE – DAY THREE
Drive to the town of Lowell (about a 5-minute drive), and have a scrumptious breakfast at the Bisbee Breakfast Club. Make sure to order the Baked Oatmeal and Potato Cakes!
Stroll Through the Tiny Street of Lowell
After breakfast, stroll down Erie Street in Lowell (located right outside of the Bisbee Breakfast Club). It is a tiny area but very rich in history and cool antiques.
Lavender Pit Overlook
On your drive back to downtown Bisbee, stop to see the Lavender Pit.
The Lavender Pit is a historic open-pit copper mine. It was once one of the largest copper mines in the world that operated from 1950 to 1974. Today, the Lavender Pit is no longer an active mine but serves as a fascinating tourist attraction and a reminder of Bisbee’s mining heritage.
You can see the Bisbee Lavender Pit in the overlooking area, which provides a panoramic view of the massive pit. The site offers informational signs and displays that explain the mining operations and the history of the area. You will learn about the challenges faced by the miners and the significance of the mine in the region’s economy.
Queen Mining Tour
Put your hard hat on and get ready to actually go into a world-famous mine. The tour will take you underground through a century-old mine where you will learn about mining history. The coolest part of this tour is it is led by actual miners who worked in the Bisbee Mine!
This is a very popular tourist attraction, so make sure to book your tickets in advance!
@mels_scene have you ever done a mine tour? #bisbee #bisbeearizona #visittheusa #usaroadtrip #miningtown #miningtiktok #arizonacheck #arizonaweekend ♬ Magic Man (as made famous by Heart)
Free Time!
The rest of the day is open! We purchased cheese, olive oil, and wine from the local shops in Bisbee and had a delightful afternoon on our Airbnb patio overlooking Bisbee. It was a lovely time! Two places to buy great wine and cheeses are the Mile High MunCheese Shop and the Poco Restaurant + Market.
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Dinner: Bisbee’s Table
DAY FOUR – WEEKEND TRIP TO BISBEE
Have breakfast at the High Desert Market & Cafe, before departing back home.
I hope this blog post helps you plan your weekend trip to Bisbee, and inspires you to add Arizona to your travel bucket list!
Want to visit other towns in Arizona? Check out my guide to Tombstone or Cottonwood Arizona.
If you need any help planning or have any questions, please comment below or message me on my contact page! I would love to hear about how your trip went as well. Which hotel or Airbnb did you end up staying in? Tell me in the comments below!
