GALLERY
Step into the vibrant heart of Bisbee with our exclusive Smelters Ballpark Tour, your gateway to uncovering the secrets of this enchanting town. Journey through the historic streets of Old Bisbee, where stunning architecture and steep, winding roads offer breathtaking panoramic views that promise to captivate. Delve into tales of notable Bisbee figures and pivotal moments that shaped Bisbee’s rich tapestry, including whispers of Bisbee ghosts in several locations.
​
Feel the thrill of history come alive as we navigate the storied past of mining in Bisbee. Visit the gaping Lavender Pit where you’ll witness firsthand the remnants of mining techniques, marvel at the old mining equipment, and spot the vibrant minerals embedded in the pit walls.
​
Our adventure doesn’t stop there! Cruise to the suburb of Lowell, where time stands still amidst classic autos, an eerie cemetery, and an intriguingly bizarre hotel. Then, go to Warren, a suburb steeped in mystery and grandeur. Here, you’ll discover diabolical tales, admire historic mansions, and explore a legendary ballpark—all accompanied by chilling stories of lightning that add an electrifying touch to your tour.
​
Throughout your journey, your guide—a Bisbee native—will enrich your experience with personal childhood anecdotes, bringing an authentic and intimate perspective to your exploration.
Ready for an unforgettable journey through Bisbee’s past and present? Book your Smelters Ballpark Tour today and unlock the secrets of this fascinating town!
Smelters Ballpark Tour Benefits
-
ENTHRALLING: Uncover the secrets of Bisbee with an exclusive and immersive tour experience.
-
PICTURESQUE: Explore historic streets and stunning architecture in Old Bisbee.
-
SCENIC: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from steep, winding roads.
-
HISTORIC: Learn about notable figures and pivotal moments that shaped Bisbee’s history.
-
VIVID: Experience the thrill of history coming alive through tales of Bisbee’s mining past.
-
AUTHENTIC: Witness firsthand the remnants of historic mining techniques and equipment.
-
COLORFUL: Marvel at the vibrant minerals embedded in the walls of open mine pits.
-
NOSTALGIC: Visit the suburb of Lowell and see classic autos, eerie cemeteries, and bizarre hotels.
-
MYSTERIOUS: Discover the mystery and grandeur of Warren, with its historical mansions and legendary ballpark.
-
INSIGHTFUL: Gain an authentic and intimate perspective from a guide who is a Bisbee native.
-
PERSONAL: Enjoy personal childhood anecdotes that enrich your exploration of Bisbee.
3 Hours | Mild | Pavement Only
$99 Adult, $90 Senior, $50 Youth, $0 Child
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 - WARREN
The final leg of the tour brings you to Warren, AZ, the first planned community in Arizona, established in 1905 to alleviate the congestion of Old Bisbee. As you stroll through Warren, you’ll admire its charming bungalow homes and visit the historic Warren Ballpark, one of the oldest in the country. This scenic suburb reveals more than just picturesque streets; you'll also discover the grand mansions that once housed the town's elite and hear spine-tingling tales of the haunted hospital that still looms over the area. The tour culminates with the dramatic story of the Bisbee Deportation of 1917, a pivotal event that forever shaped the community. This captivating conclusion offers a unique blend of beauty, history, and mystery, leaving you with a richer understanding of Bisbee’s fascinating past.
John H.
​
Wow!
I can't imagine improving on this experience. Travis is the best. His love for his hometown is obvious and his background lets you see into colorful personalities and historical boom of Bisbee's past. Don't go anywhere else.
Sue
​
Great tour. Travis is knowledgeable, polite and interesting. He made the trip to Bisbee very worthwhile. We learned so much about the history of the town and about the current town. Highly recommend taking one of the Big Jeep Tours.
