Tucson has long been known for its tourist activities and has enough attractions and sightseeing opportunities to keep even the most devoted resident entertained. But what if you just want to get away for a few days? Bisbee, located 90 miles southeast of Tucson, is a great place to stay for the weekend with the whole family, offering plenty of tours, activities, shopping, history and dining.

Founded in 1880 and named after Judge Dewitt Bisbee, Bisbee was originally an Old West mining town and was once proven as one of the richest mining sites in the world, producing nearly three million ounces of gold and more than eight billion pounds of copper from the Mule Mountains. Today, Bisbee is a lively artist community with plenty of historical interest. Well-preserved Victorian building are scattered throughout the town and former saloons have now been converted into shops, galleries, cafes and antique stores, while former miners’ boarding houses have been converted into quaint bed and breakfasts.

Bisbee is full of unique activities and tourist options you won’t find anywhere else. Because the town is so historical, many of the activity options revolve around that aspect. A few appealing options include visits to the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, the Copper Queen Library and the Bisbee Restoration Museum. Another way to learn about Bisbee is through the unique tours offered. Pick up a lantern, hat and slicker for the Queen Mine Tour, where you’ll delve deep into the Bisbee mines and learn about the life of a miner. If you prefer to stay outdoors, try one of the historic walking tours. Another option which will show you a lot in a little time is the Lavender Jeep Tour, led throughout historic Bisbee by an experienced guide.

Where to stay

Adorable accommodations are scattered all throughout Bisbee, and many of them include charming and small bed and breakfasts, like the Letson Loft Hotel, Oliver House and Calamut & AZ Guest House (the Letson Lofts Hotel is a personal favorite, however, and is incredibly convenient in that the owners live downstairs, should any issues arise). Another option are the 48 rooms of the Copper Queen Hotel, a tourist favorite as it has been open since 1902 and is Arizona’s oldest continually running hotel.

Where to dine: When leaving Bisbee, you will definitely depart with a full stomach because the town is home to some utterly fabulous restaurants suitable for any taste. Café Cornucopia is the perfect café setting for freshly squeezed juice or a smoothie, as well as a bowl of homemade soup. If it’s something heavier you desire, head to Café Roka for a delicious dinner. This award-winning eatery is comfortable yet high-end, and offers an affordable and delicious four-course dinner nightly. Also, an unexpected dining gem is Little Rosa’s Italy, which offers traditional dishes from Southern Italy and Sicily.