Table of Contents
Introduction
Located in southeastern Arizona, Tombstone is a destination that leaves visitors with a sense of nostalgia as it lowers them into the heroic age of cowboys and gunmen. Known to its residents as “The County Seat of the Living Dead”. Though they are hardly seeing much action in recent years, Tombstone is home to around 6,000 people and bears the unmistakable charm of the frontiers of the Wild West. Embark on a journey back in time, navigate the dusty streets of Old West miners, farmers, and cattlemen, and envision unforgettable festivals that once transpired at the famous O.K. Corral.
History of Tombstone, Arizona
The narrative of Tombstone commences in 1877 when a prospector, Ed Schieffelin, stumbled upon some silver in the region. According to the popular saying, Schieffelin was warned before venturing into the hostile territory of Apaches, he would only return with his tombstone which is the reason why he referred to his claim as ‘Tombstone’. As a result, the settlement developed rapidly into a mining boomtown full of people in search of riches, owning saloons and gambling or even committing crimes.
By the beginning of the 1880s, Tombstone already occupied the status of the fastest developing cities in the southwestern part of the USA, with a rise in the population to 7,000 people. It gained notoriety for violence, which reached its peak on October 26, 1881 during the outstanding confrontation – the shootout at O.K. Corral, which involved notorious personalities – Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and the Clanton’s – McLaury skilled gun fighters. The gunfight was only for half a minute but its echoes can be felt in the annals of American history.
Nevertheless, the positive tendencies did not persist eternally. By the end of the 1880s, the silver ore companies were over administered, and there were few people left in Tombstone. Still, an interesting history of the town has preserved it, making it one of the most visited towns in the state of Arizona.
Things to Do in Tombstone, Arizona
1. The O.K. Corral
Any excursion to Tombstone would be indeed incomplete not going through the renowned O.K. Corral synonymous with the great shootout of all time in the wild western territory. People get to display dynamic reenactments of the gunfight, view galleries and also get to know the continent and the events surrounding the fight. The experience at the O.K.Corral consists of a visit to the original structures that previously existed with cut out figures and original remains.
2. Bird Cage Theatre
The Bird Cage Theatre is no less a site to visit. It fell into disrepair as a saloon, a gambling den, and a cabaret, which was in business round-the-clock during the peak of activity of Tombstone. At present, it remains as a search for the more recent, yukky history, complete with original bullet holes, old furniture, and an assortment of weird stories. Besides, the Bird Cgae Theatre is said to be the most active place in America, which is why it is always included in ghost tours and does not disappoint the ghost-fascinated tourists.
3. Boothill Graveyard
The Boothill Graveyard is notorious amongst the residents of it for the large proportion that consists of outlaws, miners, and even those who died from gun violence. The cemetery is interesting because it depicts the bitter and brutal truths of western life. In fact, some of the headstones have drawings and graphic writing adorning them that help tell the story, often through grotesque renditions, of all the people who used to live in this town.
4. Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park
Constructed in 1882, the edifice known as the Tombstone Courthouse is the present-state historic park and museum. Various displays include those on mining in it, its lawmen and outlaws, and the town’s rich history. The courthouse also contains a disturbing replica of the gallows used in the very building for executions as a reminder of the law in those days.
5. Allen Street
Take a leisurely walk along Allen Street, which is the historic center of it, as it is often referred to, because everything is very reminiscent of history. The walks are wooden, and the shops are in the style of the 1880s. There are enough shops, bars, and places to eat, and every single day there are performers impersonating Bar fights from the Wild West on the streets. And while you are there, do not miss the chance to visit the maniac elder’s watering hole- Big Nose Kate’s Saloon- where many crude cowboys came to drink.
6. Tombstone Epitaph Museum
To learn more about the deep roots of the town, you head on to the Tombstone Epitaph Museum, the place where the oldest active newspaper in the State of Arizona was imagined. There you can see the first printing machine and the ways on how newspapers contributed to the western expansion of the United States. The free copy of the original 1881 newspaper, which includes the news of the famous Gunfight at the O.K Corral, is also available for all visitors of the museum.
Accommodation Options in Tombstone, Arizona
1. The Tombstone Grand Hotel
The Tombstone Grand Hotel is closer to the historic downtown area than most hotels. It is a modern hotel with some outdoor swimming pools and hot tub. It is a good place to stay for sightseeing the town.
2. Larian Motel
If you are looking for a more realistic feel, you can go ahead and book the Larian Motel, which is situated right on Allen Street. The said motel is also walking distance from all the major tourist sites and is famous for its friendly service and Old West Style.
3. Tombstone Monument Ranch
For a true taste of the Old West and its inklings toward adventure, guests will enjoy rest at Tombstone Monument Ranch, a western styled guest ranch where the guest resembles like an old 1880s Western town. Tourists may take part in horseback riding, enjoy activities associated with the western culture, and embrace the life of a cowboy.
Dining and Shopping in Tombstone, Arizona
1. Dining
It presents several restaurants and bars that stay loyal to the town’s Wild West history.
- Big Nose Kate’s Saloon – This very active and warm saloon is named after Doc Holliday’s mistress. Burgers, steaks, and Southwestern cuisine are all offered plus live music in a fun old west setting.
- Crystal Palace Saloon: The Crystal Palace Saloon is filled with classic American food and a range of beers and cocktails to enjoy for patrons just as Wyatt Earp once did and many very territorial lawmen before him.
- O.K. Cafe: Ideal for munching on the go, the O.K. Cafe caters more homestyle breakfasts and lunches with plenty of sandwiches and old fashioned comfort food
2. Shopping
The stores of Tombstone are brimming with eccentric keepsakes, western artifacts, and hand-made items.
- T. Miller’s Tombstone Mercantile & Hotel as its name contends is a geographical and historical center that offers a variety of gift items, antique items, and handicraft goods associated with the western world.
- Bronco Trading Co.: Well known for its range of western fashion that include cowboy hats, boots and leather products.
Conclusion
It is a splendour overseen by its history, bearing the stamp of the Wild West. Whether you love to study history, enjoy Western movies or just have the instinct for the wild wild west in America, it is worth seeing and experiencing. Be it the famous O.K. Corral or the ghostly Bird Cage Theatre, the town is teeming with attractions belonging to a different period. So take you cowboy boots out and travel back in time in this remarkable town.
FAQs about Visiting Tombstone, Arizona
- When is the right time for you to take a trip to it? The best months to visit the place are March through May or rather September through November because the weather is neither extremely hot nor very chilly to carry out outdoor activities.
- Is it possible to visit it with a pet? Yes, a number of sight-seeing sites in tombstone are dedicated to pets especially the ones with open places such as Allen Street. Always remember to confirm with the individual rules.
- What is the distance from Tucson to it? Pima County’s Tombstone town is approximately seventy miles direct east of Tucson city which is approximately a one and half hours drive.
- Is it possible to get access to the O.K. Corral during night hours? Yes, the O.K. Corral has open hours and the last intrusion into the Corral is usually in the late afternoon for the last caused performance. There are however other nighttime activities in the form of ghost tours concerning the spooky side of the old woman town.
Other Places to Visit Near it
- Tempe, Arizona: A Dynamic Hub of Culture, Education, and Adventure
- Sierra Vista, Arizona: Discover the Heart of Southern Arizona
- Scottsdale, Arizona: A Desert Oasis of Arts, Luxury, and Adventure
For more details on planning your trip, visit the official City of Tombstone website.
