Free Things to do in Bisbee, Arizona
Tucked away in the Mule Mountains of Southeastern Arizona, Bisbee offers one-of-a-kind experiences completely unique to this charming mining town.
Plus it’s only a 3.5 hour drive from Phoenix!
Broadway Stairs Gallery
Nestled in an alleyway off of one of the main streets through Bisbee’s Historic District, you’ll find this charming open-air art gallery. The “pop-up gallery” started in late 2021. Bisbee is a city that clearly appreciates artistic expression; this is evident throughout every street of this lively place. On any given street or alley you are bound to come across art in the form of murals, sculptures, or an open-air gallery! There are more than a dozen art galleries to enjoy in Bisbee. Some of these include The Tang Gallery focusing on fine contemporary art, the Panterra Gallery which showcases fine art photography as well as clothing, jewelry, bags, and other accessories, and the Art Home gallery which includes fantastic furniture, home accessories, and toys. You can read about these and more art galleries in Bisbee here!
Lowell, Eerie St
A few minutes out of Old Bisbee and past the Lavender Mining Pit, the Ghost Town of Lowell sits in tranquil solitude. The town was once a booming mining town but was partially demolished by the very mining industry that once kept the place alive. More than 250 residences were moved so that the Lavender pit could expand. A walk throughout the main street will surely leave you intrigued as you take in vintage cars, distressed storefronts, abandoned stores, and more.
Visit the Bisbee Breakfast Club to grab a delicious meal in a classic American diner atmosphere, located at the north end of the downtown strip and open daily from 7am-3pm.
Window Shop
Bisbee is known for being walkable, this makes window shopping in their historic district that much more enjoyable. Plus, these local shops are filled with unique finds that you surely won’t find anywhere else in the world. Some of my favorites are Tumbleweed Mining Co., On Consignment in Bisbee, Bisbee Soap & Sundry, and Bisbee Books & Music. You can read about more great Bisbee shops here!
Copper Queen Center & Art Vending Machine
If you’re like me you’re probably constantly on the hunt for unique souvenirs to help you remember your travels for years to come. One of my all time favorite examples of a one-of-a-kind souvenir is artwork from the Art Vending Machine in Bisbee’s Copper Queen Plaza. The Bisbee Arts Commission unveiled this miniature art-dealing vending machine in 2019. You have more than 20 great options to choose from when deciding which artwork you’ll be taking home with you. And don’t worry, each piece comes with a note to give you some information on the piece and the artist behind it. Watch my video on instagram here to see how it all works! While this isn’t technically a free thing to do, you can tweak this activity a little bit by visiting the Copper Queen Plaza to simply admire or take a picture with the groovy cigarette machine!
