The Most Interesting Arizona Ghost Towns to Explore
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Bisbee
Highlight: A creative “almost ghost town” in the high desert
Artists and foodies alike flock to Bisbee each year to enjoy the many galleries and local restaurants and coffee shops. It’s a quick daytrip from Tucson and offers much to see. By the early 1900’s, the copper mining town was bustling with 20,000 people and considered to be “the liveliest spot between El Paso and San Francisco.” By the 1970’s, the population decline (due to the mines closing) almost led to ghost town status. Fortunately, hippies and artists attracted to the vibe contributed towards making it Arizona’s artist haven – a distinction that still holds true today.
There are lots of interesting boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants to check out in the downtown district. In addition, a Copper Queen mine tour is a must-do while in the area. If you dare to stay in the Copper Queen Hotel (Zak Bagans and the Ghost Adventures crew did!), you may just encounter one of the property’s resident ghosts. Bisbee is one of America’s most haunted towns, so anyone interested in the paranormal should definitely consider a ghost tour! Also, be sure to take a creepy and historic walk down Erie Street in Lowell, a ghost town (mentioned above) located just a few miles outside of the city. The Lavender Pit (pictured below) is an historic open pit copper mine which you can view.
If your visit falls during the beautiful autumn season, here are a few more things to add to your Northern Arizona bucket list! These beautiful fall hikes are located in nearby Flagstaff, a wonderful daytrip destination.
Hiking the Inner Basin trail – A gorgeous high altitude climb into the heart of the San Francisco Peaks. Amazing leaf peeping!
Leaf peeping at Aspen Corner – This amazing photo destination is located along beautiful Snowbowl Rd in Flagstaff.
Also, if you are into weird places/roadside attractions, be sure to check out my guide to oddball, off-the-beaten path attractions in Arizona.
- 1
- 2
