Headed to Arizona? The Grand Canyon State is full of tourist attractions, including unique ghost towns that give visitors a chance to experience the charms and quirks of the Old West. If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, here are five ghost towns worth checking out.
Tombstone
Founded in 1877, Tombstone was the site of the infamous shootout at the O.K. Corral. Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the Clanton brothers battled it out in the dusty streets, and now tourists can see the place where history was made. Attractions in this authentic Old West town include the Birdcage Theatre, the Gunfighter Hall of Fame, and Boothill Graveyard, just to name a few. Visitors can also see historic gunfight reenactments, ride in a stagecoach, or relax in one of the town’s many saloons.
Oatman
Located along historic Route 66, Oatman is a former mining town turned bustling tourist destination. Attractions include Wild West shootouts, gold mine tours, and more than 40 restaurants and shops. Couples can even tie the knot in a “shotgun wedding.” One unique aspect of Oatman is the wild burros that roam the streets, greeting tourists and begging for treats. The friendly animals reside in the hills near town and are the descendants of burros once owned by prospectors who came to strike it rich.
Ruby
Touted as the best-preserved ghost town in Arizona, Ruby is home to a number of historic structures including a schoolhouse, jail, and rustic homes. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and camping. Unlike Tombstone or Oatman, Ruby is well off the beaten path, and cannot be reached during heavy rain. Visitors should call ahead to ensure the town is accessible.
Goldfield
Established in 1893, Goldfield is a small ghost town nestled between the Superstition Mountains and the Goldfield Mountains. Here, visitors can choose from a number of fun activities, including gold panning, zip lining, and horseback riding. And no visit would be complete without a trip to Goldfield’s Mammoth Steakhouse and Saloon or Lulu’s Bordello.
Bisbee
Bisbee got its start in 1880 and is now a thriving community with a wealth of attractions. Visitors can raise the dead at the Bisbee Seance Room, explore nearby hills on a Jeep tour, or climb one of the town’s many canyonside stairs. And like any respectable ghost town, Bisbee is also home to a number of saloons ready to quench visitors’ thirst.
READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ARIZONA? CONTACT US TODAY TO GET STARTED!
