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Tombstone: The Town Too Tough to Die

Experience the Wild West in Tombstone, Arizona: relive the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and explore historic saloons and landmarks.

Step back in time to Tombstone, Arizona, a town synonymous with the Wild West. Founded in 1879 during a silver boom, it quickly became a bustling hub of saloons, gambling, and infamous characters like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. Today, Tombstone thrives as a living museum, drawing visitors with its preserved historic sites and reenactments of the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

A brief summary to Tombstone

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the day, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on dirt roads and boardwalks.
  • Check the schedule for gunfight reenactments and other events to make the most of your visit.
  • Visit the Tombstone Epitaph newspaper museum to read original reports of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
  • Many businesses close between 5-6 PM, but saloons and ghost tours often stay open later.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Tombstone's main attractions are concentrated in the historic downtown area, easily explored on foot. From most parking lots on 3rd, 4th, or 6th street, walk towards Allen Street, the main thoroughfare, to reach the O.K. Corral, Bird Cage Theatre, and other historic sites. Be prepared for uneven surfaces on dirt roads and boardwalks.

  • Public Transport

    The City of Tombstone offers a free shuttle service with various stops around town, including the historic district. Check the schedule and route for convenient access to attractions. Call 520-457-3415 or 520-457-2202 to schedule. Cost: Free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Uber and Lyft are available in Tombstone, but availability may vary. Taxis can also be found. A short ride within the historic district will likely cost between $5 and $15, depending on distance and surge pricing. Cost: $5 - $15 (estimated).

  • Parking

    Free parking is available in large lots on 3rd Street (past Toughnut), on the northwest corner of 4th & Fremont Streets, and on 6th Street (past the Bird Cage Theatre). The O.K. Corral also has a parking lot for visitors on Fremont Street between 3rd and 4th Streets. Cost: Free.

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Discover more about Tombstone

Tombstone, Arizona, a name that conjures images of dusty streets, gunfights, and the untamed spirit of the Wild West, was founded in 1879. Prospector Ed Schieffelin struck silver in the area, leading to a boomtown that drew fortune seekers, cowboys, and outlaws alike. The town quickly grew from a small camp to a bustling city, complete with over 100 saloons, restaurants, and theaters. The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, which took place on October 26, 1881, remains Tombstone's most enduring claim to fame. The 30-second shootout between the Earp brothers, Doc Holliday, and the Clanton gang has been immortalized in countless books and movies. Today, visitors can witness reenactments of the famous gunfight and explore the actual site where it occurred. While the silver boom was relatively short-lived, Tombstone has reinvented itself as a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Boothill Graveyard, the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, and the Bird Cage Theatre. Allen Street, the town's main thoroughfare, has been preserved to resemble its appearance in the late 1800s, complete with wooden boardwalks and Western-themed shops. Tombstone is a living community with a population of approximately 1,600 residents. Tourism is the mainstay of the economy, and the town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including Helldorado, which celebrates Tombstone's history.

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