Old Bisbee

Take a journey into the rich and textured history of Old Bisbee, Arizona. Nestled amid the rugged landscapes of the Mule Mountains, this intriguing town paints a vibrant picture of the industrial West's beginnings, bathed in a unique blend of history and folklore. 

The town’s story began in 1877 when Jack Dunn's sharp eyes detected hints of mineral wealth in the area. This discovery ignited a gold rush-like surge of fortune-seekers, led by the enterprising prospector George Warren. Together, they established the renowned Warren Mining District.

Your adventure with our Bisbee Tours, more specifically Big Jeep Tours, takes you through a detailed exploration of Bisbee's fascinating evolution. Starting as a modest mining camp, Bisbee rose to prominence as the "Queen of the Copper Camps". A significant part of its growth can be attributed to the famous Copper Queen Mine, which, with an impressive value of $2.5 million in 1880, evolved into the country's second-largest copper producer by the end of the 19th century. 

Bisbee's growth escalated with the introduction of the railroad by James Douglas in 1889. By 1905, the C&A and Shattuck-Arizona copper mines joined the Copper Queen, establishing Bisbee as a formidable titan in the realm of industrial cities. 

During your journey with Bisbee Tours, a visit to the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum offers you a glimpse into the town's dynamic mining past. Furthermore, the Queen Mine Tour provides a thrilling sneak-peek into the life of a miner. 

Bisbee officially incorporated as a city on January 9, 1902, and gradually evolved from a raucous mining town to a thriving community with advanced infrastructure including sanitation, clean water, medical care, building codes, and fire protection. 

Over time, this former mining hub has been transformed into a compelling tourist attraction, renowned for its vibrant history, stunning landscapes, and captivating arts scene. Despite being just 5 miles away from Mexico, Bisbee retains a distinctive culture and charm. It stands proudly at an elevation of 5,538 feet, offering mild summers, cool winters, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of the monsoon season from June through September. 

A stroll through Bisbee presents a treasure trove of architectural wonders, characterized by Victorian and European-style buildings that dot the town, with the grand Copper Queen Hotel as a standout symbol of its past. Bisbee's legacy extends beyond its borders as its vast copper production played a critical role in powering the age of electricity, a testament to its historical significance. 

Beyond history and landscape, Bisbee's spirit comes alive during its annual events. Experience the thrill of Bisbee 1000 The Great Stair Climb, an exciting race that challenges participants to conquer the town's 1,000 original steps. The town's vibrant spirit is further showcased during Bisbee Pride, a celebration of diversity that draws people from all corners. 

So, are you ready to explore the unique history, landscapes, and culture of Old Bisbee, Arizona with Big Jeep Tours? The adventure of a lifetime awaits.