With one step into Tombstone, Arizona, you’re transported back to the 1880s—when the American Wild West was at its wildest and the Earp brothers and Doc Holliday fought outlaws at the O.K. Corral. This mining boomtown holds its history dear to its heart, and you'll still find traces of it today. From the old Bird Cage Theatre to other cowboy saloons serving up sarsaparilla, as well as horse-drawn carriage rides and mine tours, there are plenty of things to do in Tombstone. Plus, popular day trips from Tombstone include Tucson and Phoenix.
Tombstone, like much of Arizona, is hot (hot, hot) in the summertime, and although plenty of travelers make their way there during this time, it’s highly recommended that you visit between March and May or in the fall. In late October, this Wild West town also holds its Helldorado Days, a 3-day festival packed with events such as gunfight reenactments and a parade.
The Tombstone Historic District runs about three blocks wide by six blocks long, making it super easy to get around on foot. Unless you’re staying downtown, you will need to drive to get here; there is free parking near the Bird Cage Theatre and Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, but rideshare services are available as well. You can also hop on the Tombstone Trolley for a 30-minute guided tour.
If you drive to Tombstone, consider making a stop first in Gleeson, located approximately 20 minutes away. While nothing much remains of the ghost town today, you can see the ruins of a few buildings—including a hospital, saloon, and school—as well as pop into the Gleeson Jail, open on the first Saturday of the month and by special appointment only.
