SMELTERS BALLPARK TOUR – Explore Bisbee’s Mining Legacy and America’s Oldest Ballpark
A Private Jeep Tour Through Bisbee’s Mining Roots, Historic Ballpark, and Scenic Landmarks
PRICE
$105 Adult,
$95 Senior,
$53 Youth,
Free Under 13
DURATION
3 Hours | Mild
MEETING POINTS
10 Copper Queen Plaza - or your Guest Choice pickup location
GROUP SIZE
1 - 4 Guests
WHAT TO BRING
Hat, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, snacks and refreshments
Customer Reviews from Google and TripAdvisor
Step into the soul of Bisbee with the Smelters Ballpark Tour, a 3-hour private Jeep journey that uncovers the heart of Arizona’s most storied mining town. Guided by Travis Bishop, a 4th-generation native and expert storyteller, this tour blends copper mining history, architectural beauty, and the haunting charm of ghost lore with panoramic views and intimate local stories you won’t hear anywhere else.
From the Copper Queen Mine to the iconic Warren Ballpark, this immersive adventure weaves together Bisbee’s historic districts, vintage cars in Lowell, and open pit mines that once powered a nation. Whether you’re a history buff, sports lover, or curious traveler, this tour delivers one of the best things to do in Bisbee—all from the comfort of a climate-controlled Jeep.
GALLERY
SMELTERS BALLPARK TOUR ITINERARY
ITINERARY
45 MINUTES - OLD BISBEE
The tour starts on OK Street, immersing you in rich history and unique architecture. As you ascend, the guide elaborates on the street's historical significance, pausing at Joseph Muheim's house to discuss his contributions. Next, you explore Brewery Gulch, known for its blend of architecture and historical events, pausing at Muhiem's Bar for an in-depth look. You'll then move to the Lyric Theater and Central School parking lot, each offering different facets of local history and design. A stop at the Old High School provides insights into the area's educational past. The tour then ascends High Road, offering panoramic views and an extensive history lesson on Bisbee. Finally, you'll descend to Quality Hill for another layer of history and architecture before concluding on Main Street with three distinct stops that bring the area's evolving story full circle.
45 MINUTES - LAVENDER PIT
You'll then visit the Lavender Pit Lookout. Here, a mere five feet from a 900-foot-deep mine pit, the guide details mining methods and equipment. We then move to another pit section showcasing remnants of leaching ponds. The guide explains how copper is extracted from ore through leaching, adding depth to your understanding of mining science. We also delve into the socio-cultural aspects, discussing nearby closed mining communities, the historical context of Bisbee's mining communities, and future mining prospects. This attraction offers an intricate view of mining operations, from large-scale setups to minute chemical processes, all set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes.
45 MINUTES - LOWELL
Your tour also visits Lowell, AZ. With 1940s classic cars and vintage storefronts, this is an ideal spot for photography. Your guide will also share insights into the historical Junction Mine operations. Next, you'll move to the Shady Dell Hotel. As you drive through its parking lot, the guide will explain the historical importance and the cultural relevance of the hotel. The lot itself is filled with classic vehicles and antique artifacts. Your tour continues to Lowell School, with its copper roof and doors. The guide will share both historical information and personal stories related to the school. Another stop is at a leaching drainage ditch and its polluted waters. The guide will share stories of how this ditch was a hub for his childhood adventures. The last attraction is a drive through the Evergreen Cemetery, a nationally registered historic site. Here, the guide will educate you on the cemetery's historical background and its significance to Bisbee.
45 MINUTES - WARREN
The final leg of the tour brings you to Warren, AZ, the first planned community in Arizona, established in 1905 to alleviate the congestion of Old Bisbee. As you stroll through Warren, you’ll admire its charming bungalow homes and visit the historic Warren Ballpark, one of the oldest in the country. This scenic suburb reveals more than just picturesque streets; you'll also discover the grand mansions that once housed the town's elite and hear spine-tingling tales of the haunted hospital that still looms over the area. The tour culminates with the dramatic story of the Bisbee Deportation of 1917, a pivotal event that forever shaped the community. This captivating conclusion offers a unique blend of beauty, history, and mystery, leaving you with a richer understanding of Bisbee’s fascinating past.
SMELTERS BALLPARK TOUR MAP
Smelters Ballpark Tour – Guest FAQ Sheet
-
What is the Smelters Ballpark Tour?
-
A 3-hour private Jeep journey through Bisbee’s mining and baseball legacy. Highlights include Warren Ballpark, Copper Queen Mine, Lavender Pit, Old Bisbee, Lowell’s vintage cars, historic graveyards, and scenic views.
-
-
Is the tour private?
-
Yes. Every Big Jeep Tour is private for just your group—no strangers.
-
-
Is it good for all ages?
-
Yes. The route is smooth and easy, perfect for kids, seniors, and everyone in between.
-
-
What’s included?
-
Professional guide (Travis Bishop, 4th-generation Bisbee native)
-
Climate-controlled Jeep
-
Story-driven exploration of historic landmarks
-
Photography stops and local insights
-
-
What should I bring?
-
Camera
-
Sun protection
-
Light jacket (if needed)
-
Refreshments and snacks
-
-
Where do we meet?
-
We offer Guest-Choice Pickup at your hotel, Airbnb, or chosen location in Bisbee. We also use a default pickup address at 10 Copper Queen Plaza (near the ATM)
-
-
Pet policy?
-
Small, friendly pets are always welcome
-