2-Hour Tour – Old Bisbee, the Open Pits, and Lowell AZ

Quick Overview

This 2-hour tour takes you through the historic town of Bisbee, Arizona, with stops at the Lavender Pit, the Old Bisbee district, and Lowell, all for $59 per person. Led by a native guide, the experience offers a deeply personal look at the area’s mining history, colorful architecture, and local legends. The tour begins on OK Street with a focus on local architecture and history, then ventures into the Lavender Pit, and finally explores the vibrant Lowell neighborhood with vintage cars and historic sites.

What we love most about this tour is how knowledgeable guides make history come alive with stories only a local could tell, and how the customized routes include hidden backroads most visitors never see. On top of that, the climate-controlled jeep with a removable roof makes the ride comfortable and flexible, whether you prefer open-air or enclosed views.

A possible consideration is the duration—two hours might feel quick if you’re eager to see every corner of Bisbee, but the focused stops and personal stories make it a worthwhile snapshot. This tour is perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone wanting a comfortable, insider look at Bisbee’s fascinating past.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates local insights over generic sightseeing, this tour will suit you perfectly. From mining tales to vintage cars, it offers a well-rounded taste of Bisbee’s unique charm.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Guide: Led by a Bisbee native, providing personal stories and insider knowledge.
• Diverse Stops: From architecture to open pit mines, each site offers unique insights.
• Comfort & Flexibility: Climate-controlled jeep with open-air options and easy accessibility.
• Incredible Value: For $59, you’re getting a tailored experience that covers history, culture, and scenery in just two hours.
• Pet-Friendly & Inclusive: The tour welcomes service animals and is accessible for most travelers.
• Small Group Feel: Private tour ensures personalized attention and flexible pacing.

In-Depth Review of the 2-Hour Old Bisbee, Open Pits, and Lowell Tour

Why We Chose This Tour

When exploring the southwestern corner of Arizona, Bisbee often steals the spotlight with its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and stories of mining. This tour, priced at $59 per person, offers a compact yet comprehensive look at what makes Bisbee special. Led by Travis, a guide whose reviews consistently praise his knowledgeable, friendly, and authentic approach, this trip seems designed for travelers seeking genuine stories rather than canned narration.

What Makes It Stand Out

Two aspects immediately catch our eye. First, the guide’s local background enriches the storytelling, with personal anecdotes and family stories that bring the sites to life. Second, the inclusion of hidden routes and backroads adds an element of discovery, making it more than just a sightseeing drive. You’ll visit places most travelers miss, like Brewery Gulch, Joseph Muheim’s house, and the Shady Dell Hotel, making it ideal for those who love off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration—just two hours. While packed with stops, more time would allow for deeper exploration of some sites, especially if you’re a history enthusiast or want to take more photographs. Also, since the tour is booked mostly 14 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead if you have a tight schedule.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour fits travelers craving an authentic, personal glimpse into Bisbee’s past, especially those interested in mining history, local architecture, and small-town stories. It’s particularly great for photographers looking for picturesque spots, history buffs, or families who want a comfortable, engaging introduction to the area.

A Thorough Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Exploring Bisbee on OK Street

We start our journey on OK Street, where historic architecture and local charm set the tone. The guide points out Joseph Muheim’s house, sharing his influence on the town’s development. Walking past Brewery Gulch, you’ll notice a mix of vintage storefronts, many from the early 20th century, which speak to Bisbee’s booming mining economy.

Visits to landmarks like the Lyric Theater and Central School give insight into the town’s cultural life. The Old High School stands as a proud nod to Bisbee’s past, and the guide’s stories about local families and architectural styles bring the buildings to life. The panoramic views from the High Road are a highlight, offering a breathtaking look over the town and the surrounding mountains.

Stop 2: Lavender Pit

Next, we pull up to the Lavender Pit Lookout, where you stand just five feet from a 900-foot-deep mine. The guide shares mining techniques, explaining how copper is extracted from the earth, and points out remnants of leaching ponds—a chemical process that’s less glamorous but crucial for the town’s economy.

The story behind the closed mining communities and their social impact adds a human layer to the industrious landscape. The stunning vistas of the landscape, combined with the raw power of the open pits, make this stop both educational and visually impressive.

Stop 3: Lowell – The Historic Neighborhood

Finally, we head into Lowell, a neighborhood steeped in mining history and vintage charm. Erie Street is lined with classic cars from the 1940s and vintage storefronts, perfect for photos. The guide tells stories about the Junction Mine and how the community thrived during the mining boom.

Driving past the Shady Dell Hotel, you’ll learn about its cultural significance, and the Lowell School with its distinctive copper roof offers a glimpse into local education history. The tour includes a stop at a leaching drainage ditch, which highlights environmental impacts and the ongoing story of resource extraction.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviews praise the knowledge and warmth of the guide, with one describing Travis as “born and raised in Bisbee,” offering a perspective you simply can’t get from a guidebook. Commentators often mention how the tour “went to areas I hadn’t seen before,” and the personal stories make each stop memorable.

Many guests have expressed that the tour exceeded expectations, praising the safe, thoughtful driving, and how local insights made history engaging. The small group format ensures personalized attention, allowing travelers to ask questions and linger at points of interest.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

The meeting point at 10 Copper Queen Plaza is central and easy to access. The tour includes pick-up options and drop-off within Bisbee, making it convenient for travelers staying in town or nearby.

The climate-controlled jeep with removable roof means you’re protected from the elements but can also enjoy open-air views, depending on the weather. The accessible design with overhead straps and Powersteps makes it suitable for most guests, including those with mobility challenges.

Booking in advance, typically about two weeks, is recommended since the tour is private and fills up quickly. The full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind, especially for flexible travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This two-hour adventure is a fantastic way to get a personalized, insider perspective of Bisbee’s diverse culture and history. The value is high, considering you’re transported in comfort and receive stories and insights that go beyond guidebooks. For those who love local stories, photography, or simply want a relaxed, informative journey, this tour hits the mark.

While two hours won’t cover every corner of Bisbee, it provides a well-rounded snapshot and a deeper appreciation for the town’s industrial roots and artistic spirit. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those who prefer a guided experience with a local touch.

If you’re after authentic stories, stunning scenery, and a comfortable ride, this tour is a value-packed choice. Just plan ahead, and be ready to learn from a guide who truly loves his hometown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the jeep is climate-controlled, and the removable roof allows for open-air views in good weather. It’s comfortable regardless of rain or shine.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but packed experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 14 days ahead. Since it’s a private tour, securing your spot early is recommended.

Can I be dropped off anywhere in Bisbee after the tour?
Absolutely, the tour offers drop-off options within Bisbee city limits.

Is this tour pet-friendly?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and the policy is pet-friendly.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, thanks to overhead straps and Powersteps designed for easy Jeep access.

What makes this tour different from a free or self-guided visit?
The personal stories, hidden routes, and local insights provided by a native guide offer a depth of understanding that self-guided visits can’t match.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended to capture the stunning views and historic sites.

This 2-hour Old Bisbee tour combines comfort, authenticity, and insider storytelling, making it a must-try for anyone wanting to experience the true spirit of this Arizona mining town. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or a curious traveler, you’ll come away with a richer understanding and a few stories to tell.