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To stop in Bisbee is to stop in time. Nestled in the mile high Mule Mountains of southern Arizona, Bisbee has maintained an Old World charm seldom found anywhere in the United States.
The fine collection of well reserved turn of the century Victorian structures are full of old west history and copper mining lore. Old miners' boarding houses have been refurbished into many charming small Bed and Breakfast establishments, of which no two are alike. Former saloons are now quaint shops, antique stores or art galleries, cafes and restaurants.
Many travelers return year after year to relax and enjoy a quiet week in Old Bisbee re-discovering these many pleasures. A popular activity is Bisbee's excellent self guided fully illustrated Walking Tour, which details each historic structure and guides the visitor with a map.
Included in the Walking Tour is world famous Brewery Gulch which in its heyday boasted upwards of 47 saloons and was considered the "liveliest spot between El Paso and San Francisco".
Other activities include the Queen Mine Tour, a trip down into the now inactive copper mine, a visit at the Bisbee Mining an Historical Museum, a must for history buffs, the historic A HREF="muheim.html">Muheim House, an outstanding example of 19th century architecture and elegance, and the Lavender Pit Open Mine.
Because Bisbee is so well preserved historically, it is a natural magnet drawing film companies here for a host of settings. Bisbee can become Spain, Greece, Italy, or turn of the century New York City with a little creative movie magic.
When major mining operations came to an abrupt halt in 1975 it seemed that perhaps Bisbee might become another Arizona ghost town. However, as real estate prices plummeted, many creative people began to discover Bisbee. The unique blend of Victorian architecture and 1930's Art Deco images became a source of inspiration and it made perfect sense for Bisbee to evolve into a center for countless artists, writers, poets, silversmiths and other creative people to pursue their chosen professions. Many of Bisbee's artists sell their work in the shops downtown while others merely enjoy Bisbee as their base of operations, a place where they can work in relative anonymity. The late world renowned Arizona artist Ted DeGrazia once lived in Bisbee managing the now restored Lyric Theatre (1936-42) and had a studio above the theater.
Bisbee is the host to many events throughout the year including La Vuelta de Bisbee, a United States Cycling Federation (USCF) sponsored event which takes place during the final weekend in April. This grueling 4 day competition climaxes in the Criterium, a race up and down the steep hills of Old Bisbee.
Bisbee's perfect location in the Mule Mountain (5300 Ft) of southern Arizona protect it from blistering summer heat and bitter winter cold. Summers are noticeably cooler than in torridly hot Phoenix and Tucson, the evenings in Bisbee being delightfully comfortable. Winters are crisp and short with plenty of sunshine and daytime highs are often in the 60's. The air is always crystal clear throughout the year.
The mild climate and close proximity to Mexico have made Cochise County and the area near Bisbee a natural habitat for a diverse amount of wildlife. Bird watchers especially enjoy the San Pedro Riparian National Conversation Area (15 miles away) and Ramsey Canyon (25 miles away) as prime locations to pursue their favorite activity. Coyotes, Javelina, Mule Deer, Jack Rabbits, and Hummingbirds are just a few of the species often spotted in the area.
A trip in any direction is a history lesson on the American Frontier. The Apache Wars were fought in the area and Cochise and Geronimo called the area their home. Coronado, the great Spanish explorer, traveled through here on his search for "Seven Cities of Gold" and there are many old mining ghost towns scattered throughout the county.
The wonderful climate makes Bisbee a superior place for retirement. A host of national publications have consistantly rated Bisbee high on the list of the Nation's best retirement locations. Crystal clear air, golfing, low crime rates, and active senior organizations are just some of the benefits of living here. Many early retirees purchased homes in dire need of repair and restored them while others found the outlying districts of Warren and San Jose great places to live. Of great interest to visitors are the wonderful variety of beautiful roses which grow in these areas.
Many a story is related about a vistor who came to Bisbee and never left. It has happened more than once and is documented in the lives of many current residents. Those who do leave often return year after year until one day they too decide to Purchase Real Estate and make this wonderful place their permanent home. Spend a few days unwinding in Bisbee. Breathe the crystal clear, cool exhilarating air. Enjoy the shops, galleries, unique lodging facilities, and the charm of a by-gone era. We think you'll never forget it and you'll probably return again and again to Bisbee, Arizona.
One of Arizona's Oldest Golf Courses
Desert Botanical Gardens
23 Restaurants
12 Historic B & B's
3 Motels
4 RV Parks
Mine Tour
2 Historic Hotels
2 Banks
2 Museums
The Oldest continuous AZ Library
8 Antique Stores
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