Bisbee Mines: A Journey into Arizona's Copper History
Explore the depths of Arizona's copper mining history at the legendary Bisbee Mines. A journey into the past!
The Bisbee Mines stand as a testament to Arizona's rich mining history, particularly its copper legacy. Bisbee, once known as the "Queen of the Copper Camps," owes its existence and prosperity to the discovery of copper, silver, and gold in the late 19th century. The mines, including the famous Copper Queen Mine, attracted thousands of workers and transformed Bisbee into a bustling city. During its peak, Bisbee was the largest city between St. Louis and San Francisco. The Copper Queen Mine, which operated from 1877 to 1975, was one of Bisbee's most productive mines. Over its century of operation, the Bisbee mines yielded billions of pounds of copper, along with significant quantities of silver, gold, lead, and zinc. Today, visitors can explore this fascinating history through the Queen Mine Tour. Retired miners lead the tours, sharing their personal experiences and demonstrating the mining techniques of the early 20th century. Equipped with hard hats and headlamps, visitors descend into the mine by train, venturing 1,500 feet underground. The mine's constant 47-degree temperature provides a cool escape as you delve into Bisbee's past. While the Queen Mine Tour offers an immersive experience, the landscape surrounding Bisbee also bears the marks of its mining heritage. The Lavender Pit, one of Arizona's first open-pit mines, stands as a visible reminder of the scale of Bisbee's mining operations. Although mining operations ceased in the mid-1970s, the Bisbee Mines remain a significant landmark, drawing tourists and history enthusiasts to this unique and colorful town.
Local tips
- Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a sweater or jacket, as the mine temperature remains a constant 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius).
- Reservations for the Queen Mine Tour are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as tours often sell out.
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled tour time to check in and attend the mandatory safety meeting.
- Consider combining your mine tour with a visit to the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum to gain a broader understanding of Bisbee's mining legacy.
- Explore the historic town of Bisbee, known for its art galleries, quirky shops, and colorful architecture.
A brief summary to Bisbee mines
- 478 N Dart Rd, Bisbee, Arizona, 85603, US
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Old Bisbee, the Bisbee Mines (Queen Mine Tour) are accessible by foot, though the walk involves a significant uphill climb. From the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum on Main Street, head southeast on Main Street, then turn right onto Dart Road. Continue on Dart Road until you reach the Queen Mine Tour entrance at 478 N Dart Rd. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and takes about 15-20 minutes. Be prepared for steep inclines. Parking near the mine entrance is available but can be limited.
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Public Transport
The City of Bisbee Bus provides transportation throughout Bisbee. Check the bus schedule for the most up-to-date route information and stops. The bus fare is approximately $1.00 per ride. Look for the bus stops along the main streets of Bisbee and board the bus that services the Queen Mine Tour area. Ask the driver for the closest stop to the mine entrance on Dart Road. From the bus stop, it may be a short walk to the mine entrance.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Bisbee. Request a ride from your location in Bisbee to the Queen Mine Tour at 478 N Dart Rd. A short taxi ride from the center of Bisbee to the mine will cost approximately $8 - $12, depending on the demand and specific location. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.
