I recently found myself with two glorious days off, and I knew just the place to go within easy driving distance from Tucson. It had been a while since I’d taken the scenic trip south to Bisbee, Arizona, but I was confident it would check my top three boxes for a brief solo adventure: mainly people, art, and food.
For anyone who hasn’t heard of or visited Bisbee, it’s one of Arizona’s offbeat small towns possessing a rich history, memorable name, and unique cast of characters. Like many western towns, it got its start with the mining boom of the late 19 th century and earned the nickname “queen of the copper camps.” Bisbee was eventually incorporated as a city in 1902.
Meeting Bisbee
When the mining died out, Bisbee could’ve become just another ghost town. However, the stunning vistas, ideal climate, and affordable real estate all contributed to shaping an eclectic demographic that has made Bisbee a little quirky in all the best ways. Over time, the town has evolved into an ideal destination for those in and out of Arizona who are seeking a less touristy vibe. Indeed, everyone in Bisbee are genuinely engaging, happy to share what brought them to town, which sights to check out next, or even the best places to park.
The people who make up a small town are the colorful threads that pull it all together and Bisbee’s population – residents, snowbirds, and visitors alike – add to the vibrancy that draws me here.
Creativity Abounds
As an artist and a writer, I seek out the locations that hum with creative energy and Bisbee does not disappoint. Downtown is full of galleries, studios, and shops full of original art in every possible genre and price range. Some favorites were Main Page Gallery, Belleza Gallery, and Gallery One Squared, but there truly is a flavor for everyone’s taste.
While I didn’t get a chance this time, several people urged me to visit Artemizia Foundation – a museum and gallery dedicated to contemporary, graffiti, and street art. I also plan to attend a future Bisbee After 5, which occurs each second Saturday when galleries, shops, and restaurants stay open later.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
Speaking of restaurants, there is a delicious and diverse selection of dining options in Bisbee. I try to avoid chain establishments when traveling but that’s easy in Bisbee. Not a McDonald’s to be found.
Lunch at Taqueria Outlaw provided amazing tacos and excellent service. Café Roka’s reputation preceded itself and I was happy to get a seat at the central bar where I was served five-star food and fine conversation. Stopping at the High Desert Market and Cafe on the way back north is a must.
Due to the insane number of hills and stairs in Bisbee, a girl can get thirsty. So many refreshing choices – including Gene’s Place plus Arizona’s longest continually run bar, St. Elmo. The Bisbee Social Club and the Bisbee Grand both promised cold drinks, live music, and maybe some dancing. Third and fourth boxes soundly checked.
Ultimately, the problem with two days in Bisbee isn’t the money spent in artsy shops or even the steep walk up to my cozy rental; it’s that two days is not enough! There still remains an historic library to explore, a mine to tour, and a few ghosts to hunt. I urge you to discover the places I missed while creating your own favorite Bisbee highlights. Perhaps our paths will cross when you do, because I’ll most definitely be back soon. The writer: Susan Richards is an award-winning writer in Tucson with more than 20 years of experience in journalism, features, graphic design, and creating content with context for
numerous industries.
If you’re a local writer who “gets” Bisbee and would like to share your experiences and perspectives, contact info@BisbeeAZ.com for more information.