GALLERY
Embark on the Diggers Borderwall Tour and discover the enchanting streets of Old Bisbee, where history meets the horizon. Glide through the winding hillside lanes, each bend revealing storied architecture and breathtaking panoramas that have captivated visitors for decades. Delve deep into the heart of Bisbee’s rich heritage, exploring mining sites that echo the past, from awe-inspiring open pits to the remnants of minerals embedded in the rugged walls.
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Journey through the suburb of Lowell, where time stands still among vintage automobiles, eerie graveyards, and uniquely quaint hotels. Cross into Naco, a town draped in history right on the border, offering firsthand views of historic military ruins and the famed border wall.
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Throughout your adventure, your guide—an authentic Bisbee local—will enrich your experience with personal anecdotes and naturally mention the mysterious "Bisbee Ghosts" from a childhood spent among these hills and valleys. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, the Diggers Borderwall Tour promises a journey filled with fascinating insights and unforgettable sights.
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Ready to explore the hidden gems of Bisbee? Book your tour today and step into a story that spans centuries!
Diggers Borderwall Tour Benefits
3 Hours | Mild | Pavement Only
$99 Adult, $90 Senior, $50 Youth, $0 Child
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HISTORICAL: Visit Naco to see historic military ruins and the famed border wall.
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TIMELESS: Explore local cemeteries and timeless accommodations.
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MEMORABLE: Create lasting memories through scenic drives and historic sites.
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SCENIC: Enjoy the scenic drive through winding hillside lanes revealing storied architecture and breathtaking panoramas.
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HERITAGE: Explore Bisbee’s heritage, including mining sites and awe-inspiring open pits.
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VINTAGE: Discover Lowell with its vintage automobiles, eerie graveyards, and quaint hotels.
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AUTHENTIC: Gain unique insights from an authentic Bisbee local guide with personal anecdotes.
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FASCINATING: Enjoy a journey filled with fascinating insights and unforgettable sights, perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers.
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MYSTICAL: Explore hidden gems of Bisbee and step into a story that spans centuries.
ITINERARY
45 MINUTES - OLD BISBEE
The tour starts on OK Street, immersing you in rich history and unique architecture. As you ascend, the guide elaborates on the street's historical significance, pausing at Joseph Muheim's house to discuss his contributions. Next, you explore Brewery Gulch, known for its blend of architecture and historical events, pausing at Muhiem's Bar for an in-depth look. You'll then move to the Lyric Theater and Central School parking lot, each offering different facets of local history and design. A stop at the Old High School provides insights into the area's educational past. The tour then ascends High Road, offering panoramic views and an extensive history lesson on Bisbee. Finally, you'll descend to Quality Hill for another layer of history and architecture before concluding on Main Street with three distinct stops that bring the area's evolving story full circle.
45 MINUTES - LAVENDER PIT
You'll then visit the Lavender Pit Lookout. Here, a mere five feet from a 900-foot-deep mine pit, the guide details mining methods and equipment. We then move to another pit section showcasing remnants of leaching ponds. The guide explains how copper is extracted from ore through leaching, adding depth to your understanding of mining science. We also delve into the socio-cultural aspects, discussing nearby closed mining communities, the historical context of Bisbee's mining communities, and future mining prospects. This attraction offers an intricate view of mining operations, from large-scale setups to minute chemical processes, all set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes.
45 MINUTES - LOWELL
Your tour also visits Lowell, AZ. With 1940s classic cars and vintage storefronts, this is an ideal spot for photography. Your guide will also share insights into the historical Junction Mine operations. Next, you'll move to the Shady Dell Hotel. As you drive through its parking lot, the guide will explain the historical importance and the cultural relevance of the hotel. The lot itself is filled with classic vehicles and antique artifacts. Your tour continues to Lowell School, with its copper roof and doors. The guide will share both historical information and personal stories related to the school. Another stop is at a leaching drainage ditch and its polluted waters. The guide will share stories of how this ditch was a hub for his childhood adventures. The last attraction is a drive through the Evergreen Cemetery, a nationally registered historic site. Here, the guide will educate you on the cemetery's historical background and its significance to Bisbee.
45 MINUTES - NACO
The final leg of the tour brings you to Naco, AZ, where history comes alive with each stop. Upon arrival in Naco, you will first visit the ruins of an old fort. This fort was originally constructed to house U.S. soldiers tasked with protecting the border during the tumultuous times of the Mexican Revolutionary War. The walls of the fort, though weathered, still whisper tales of the past. Next, your journey takes you to the imposing Border Wall. Here, you can park the Jeep and experience the unique opportunity to physically touch the barrier that separates the United States from Mexico. As you stand by the wall, you can peer into Naco, Sonora, glimpsing life on the other side and reflecting on the complexities of border history. In addition to these landmarks, your tour includes a visit to Naco’s historic port of entry building, a site steeped in the comings and goings that have shaped the area. Nearby, you will discover a bar renowned not only for its vibrant atmosphere but also for its notable patrons, including former U.S. Presidents. Furthermore, your guide will share the intriguing history of an aerial bomber that was once hired to drop bombs on the Mexican Government Army. This story highlights a dramatic chapter in the region's history, underscoring the strategic importance of Naco during historical conflicts.
Alicia
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We had a great time on the tour with Travis. I enjoyed the history and the chance to take excellent photos. I also love that he made it more personable and tried to find me some javelinas! I will recommend him to everyone
T75
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Travis ( our tour guide) was excellent. He has all of the knowledge of Bisbee as he spent so many years there growing up, and because of that, he was able to share all of those experience in making the tour great and personable. We learned so much about Bisbee and the tour was a major highlight of our time there.
