12 Things To Do In Tombstone That Are Rare Outside Of Arizona
Stepping into Tombstone is like entering a vivid Wild West tale. This Arizona desert town brims with rich history and legendary tales of gunfights, making it a captivating destination for visitors worldwide. As you walk down Allen Street, the wooden boardwalk creaks beneath your feet, and the lively echoes of saloons transport you to the days of the Old West.
A highlight is the Bird Cage Theatre, a historic saloon and brothel that reveals Tombstone’s wilder side. Its preserved charm, combined with eerie ghost stories, creates an atmosphere steeped in frontier intrigue. The mix of authentic history and mystery makes it an unforgettable stop.
Tombstone’s allure continues with O.K. Corral reenactments, which bring the iconic gunfight to life, and the solemn Boothill Graveyard, a resting place filled with stories of the past. Tombstone isn’t merely a destination—it’s a journey through time that leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.
1. O.K. Corral
The O.K. Corral is the heart of Tombstone’s Wild West legacy, where the infamous 1881 gunfight between the Earp brothers, Doc Holliday, and the Clanton-McLaury gang unfolded. The daily reenactments here are more than just performances—they transport visitors into the high-stakes tension of the past. As actors fire shots and tensions flare, you can almost feel the weight of history echoing through the town.
Beyond the action, the O.K. Corral is a living museum, offering exhibits that showcase authentic weapons, personal belongings, and historical records from that fateful day. Guided tours reveal lesser-known stories, providing deeper insight into the lives of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and their infamous rivals. Standing on the very ground where these lawmen and outlaws clashed is an unforgettable experience for history lovers.
Fun Fact: The gunfight didn’t occur inside the corral but in a nearby lot. Despite lasting just 30 seconds, it remains one of the most iconic events of the Wild West.
Why Visit?
✅ Live Gunfight Reenactments – Experience the adrenaline of history in action.
✅ Interactive Exhibits – See artifacts from the real 1881 shootout.
✅ Guided Tours – Dive into the untold stories of Tombstone’s past.
2. Allen Street
Allen Street is the lifeblood of Tombstone, a historic thoroughfare that still echoes with the spirit of the Old West. Lined with wooden boardwalks, 19th-century saloons, and Wild West storefronts, this lively street captures the essence of the town’s rowdy past.
A visit to The Crystal Palace Saloon is a must. Once a watering hole for cowboys, lawmen, and gamblers, it now welcomes guests with live music, period décor, and a vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, stagecoaches still roll down the street, offering rides that transport visitors back to the town’s silver boom days.
Nicknamed “The Wickedest Street in America”, Allen Street was once a hotbed of duels, saloon brawls, and outlaw dealings. Today, it serves as an outdoor museum, where visitors can explore preserved buildings, witness street performances, and even meet costumed characters reenacting daily life from the 1880s.
Fun Fact: This street was the scene of brawls, gunfights, and mischief. Today, it thrives as a lively hub of history and entertainment.
Why Visit?
✅ Authentic Wild West Atmosphere – Stroll through a perfectly preserved Old West street.
✅ Historic Saloons & Shops – Grab a drink at the legendary Crystal Palace Saloon.
✅ Stagecoach Rides & Reenactments – Immerse yourself in the cowboy era with live performances.
3. Bird Cage Theatre
Few places in Tombstone capture the gritty and untamed spirit of the Old West quite like the Bird Cage Theatre. Once a saloon, gambling hall, and brothel, this notorious establishment was open 24/7 for eight straight years during the height of the silver rush. It quickly became a hotspot for gunfights, high-stakes poker games, and infamous outlaws—and evidence of its rowdy past is still visible today.
Walking through its doors, visitors will immediately notice the bullet holes still riddling the walls and ceiling, a stark reminder of the violence that once played out here. The museum inside displays authentic artifacts, photographs, and furniture, offering a raw glimpse into Tombstone’s most lawless days.
Adding to its mystique, the Bird Cage Theatre is rumored to be haunted. Guests and paranormal investigators alike have reported eerie encounters, from phantom voices to unexplained cold spots. Whether you’re a history lover or a thrill-seeker, this iconic landmark delivers an unforgettable experience.
Fun Fact: The Bird Cage Theatre boasts over 140 bullet holes in its walls and is rumored to be one of the most haunted locations in the U.S.
Why Visit?
✅ Step Into Tombstone’s Rowdiest Saloon – Explore the saloon where cowboys, outlaws, and gamblers once gathered.
✅ See Authentic Artifacts & Bullet Holes – Discover relics from the town’s lawless past.
✅ Ghostly Encounters – Experience one of Arizona’s most haunted sites.
4. Boothill Graveyard
Few places in Tombstone capture the gritty reality of frontier life like Boothill Graveyard. Established in 1878, this historic cemetery is the final resting place of outlaws, lawmen, cowboys, and townsfolk, each with a story as compelling as the town itself.
Walking through Boothill, visitors are greeted by weathered wooden grave markers, some with dark humor, others with tragic finalities. One of the most famous epitaphs reads:
"Here lies George Johnson, hanged by mistake, 1882. He was right, we was wrong, but we strung him up, and now he’s gone."
This mix of humor, misfortune, and justice paints an unfiltered picture of the lawlessness and unpredictability of Tombstone’s past. Many buried here met violent ends, including members of the Clanton and McLaury gang, who fell in the infamous O.K. Corral shootout.
Set against a backdrop of rugged desert landscapes and distant mountains, Boothill Graveyard is more than just a resting place—it’s a time capsule of the Old West, offering a poignant glimpse into the harsh realities of frontier life.
Fun Fact: Some epitaphs at Boothill Graveyard are as memorable as the lives they represent, like Lester Moore’s: “Four slugs from a .44, No Les, no more.”
Why Visit?
✅ See the Graves of Wild West Outlaws – Discover the final resting places of Tombstone’s infamous figures.
✅ Read Fascinating & Darkly Humorous Epitaphs – Each marker tells a story of the town’s rough-and-tumble past.
✅ Experience the Desert’s Stark Beauty – A solemn yet scenic reminder of the Old West’s untamed nature.
5. Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park
The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park is a cornerstone of the Old West’s legal and social history. Built in 1882, this stately courthouse-turned-museum offers a deep dive into Tombstone’s turbulent past, featuring exhibits on gunfights, mining booms, and everyday frontier life.
Walking into the courthouse, I was struck by its period-accurate grandeur, from its intricate furnishings to the chilling gallows in the courtyard—a stark reminder of frontier justice. Inside, artifacts like photographs, documents, and personal items vividly portray life in the 1880s.
Fun Fact: The courthouse issued liquor licenses to saloons but warned against drunken brawls—though compliance was rare.
Why Visit?
✅ Step Inside an Authentic 1882 Courthouse – A beautifully preserved piece of Old West history.
✅ Explore Artifacts & Exhibits on Law & Order – Learn about the trials, gunfights, and justice of Tombstone.
✅ See the Original Gallows – A powerful reminder of the town’s rough justice system.
6. Goodenough Mine Tour
Tombstone’s rise to fame wasn’t just about gunfights—it was built on silver mining, and no place showcases this better than the Goodenough Mine Tour. This underground adventure offers visitors a firsthand glimpse into the hardships and ingenuity of the miners who once sought their fortune beneath the desert floor.
Descending into the mine, I could almost hear the clink of tools and see the flicker of lanterns. The guide’s storytelling brought the experience to life, explaining the rudimentary methods miners used to extract silver. Walking the same tunnels where fortunes were made added an authentic thrill.
Fun Fact: The mine’s name reflects Ed Schieffelin’s modest confidence in his discovery—it turned out to be one of Arizona’s richest silver mines.
Why Visit?
✅ Step Into an Authentic 19th-Century Mine – Walk the tunnels where silver was once extracted.
✅ Learn About Tombstone’s Mining History – Hear stories of riches, risks, and real-life miners.
✅ Experience an Underground Adventure – A thrilling way to explore the town’s economic roots.
7. The Tombstone Epitaph Museum
The Tombstone Epitaph Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, showcasing Arizona’s oldest continuously published newspaper. Its exhibits highlight how the press captured the daily dramas and legends of Tombstone’s Wild West days.
The museum is housed in the original newspaper office, where vintage printing presses, type blocks, and historic reprints offer a glimpse into how frontier journalism shaped the Wild West’s legacy. Among the most fascinating artifacts are reprints of the 1881 O.K. Corral gunfight coverage, giving visitors a firsthand look at how the shootout was reported in its own time.
A visit here is more than a history lesson—it’s a celebration of storytelling, revealing how newspapers helped shape the myths and realities of the Old West.
Fun Fact:Visitors can take home reprints of the Epitaph’s 1881 issue covering the O.K. Corral shootout—a vivid piece of Old West history.
Why Visit?
✅ See an Original 1880s Printing Press – Experience frontier journalism up close.
✅ Read Historic Newspaper Reprints – Relive the O.K. Corral gunfight coverage.
✅ Discover the Power of the Press in the Wild West – Explore how newspapers influenced public perception.
8. Big Nose Kate's Saloon
Big Nose Kate’s Saloon captures the lively spirit of Tombstone’s Wild West days. Named after Doc Holliday’s infamous companion, this saloon blends history, hearty meals, and entertainment into an unforgettable experience.
Walking through the swinging doors, I was greeted by live piano music, laughter, and a décor packed with relics from Tombstone’s past. The Cowboy Burger, a house specialty, paired perfectly with stories from the staff about Kate’s adventures. The energy, amplified by live music and a boisterous crowd, made me feel like I’d stepped onto the set of a classic Western.
Why Visit?
✅ Live Music & Saloon Vibes – Enjoy the energy of an Old West watering hole.
✅ Great Food & Drinks – Try the famous Cowboy Burger.
✅ A Legendary Wild West Love Story – Learn about the real Big Nose Kate and Doc Holliday.
9. Rose Tree Museum
Tombstone isn’t just about gunfights and saloons—it also holds a botanical wonder. The Rose Tree Museum is home to the world’s largest rose tree, planted in 1885, which has grown into an 8,000-square-foot floral canopy.
During springtime, the blossoming tree transforms the courtyard into a fragrant, shaded oasis, offering a stunning contrast to the rugged desert surroundings. The museum itself is a tribute to Tombstone’s early settlers, featuring artifacts, letters, and memorabilia that tell personal stories of the town’s pioneers.
If you’re looking for a quieter, more romantic stop on your Tombstone itinerary, this living piece of history is a must-see.
Fun Fact: The rose tree produces thousands of blooms every spring, drawing visitors from around the globe to marvel at its natural beauty.
Why Visit?
✅ See the World’s Largest Rose Tree – A one-of-a-kind botanical wonder.
✅ Learn About Tombstone’s Early Settlers – Explore the attached museum.
✅ Experience a Peaceful Escape from the Wild West Action – A perfect balance to your visit.
10. Old Tombstone Western Theme Park
Old Tombstone Western Theme Park brings the Wild West to life with action-packed gunfight reenactments, gold panning, and mini-golf. This family-friendly attraction combines history and fun, offering something for visitors of all ages.
The highlight of my visit was the staged gunfight show, where actors in authentic 1880s attire mixed drama, humor, and plenty of action. The sound of gunfire and the dynamic performances immersed me in Tombstone’s frontier history. Afterward, gold panning added a hands-on thrill, even if I didn’t find my fortune.
Why Visit?
✅ Exciting Live Gunfight Shows – Action-packed entertainment with a historical twist.
✅ Gold Panning & Mini-Golf – Hands-on fun for visitors of all ages.
✅ Interactive Wild West Experience – A great mix of history and adventure.
11. Tombstone's Historama
Tombstone’s Historama immerses visitors in the town’s vibrant past with a multimedia show narrated by Vincent Price. Through moving dioramas and dramatic storytelling, the presentation captures the spirit of Tombstone’s history, from its silver boom to the legendary O.K. Corral gunfight.
The experience combines entertainment and education, making history come alive as intricate models reenact key moments. Vincent Price’s narration adds depth and drama, making it a standout among Tombstone’s attractions. For anyone seeking to understand the Wild West’s allure, the Historama is a must-see stop.
Why Visit?
✅ Narrated by Vincent Price – A legendary voice brings history to life.
✅ Dramatic Visual Effects & Dioramas – A unique way to experience the past.
✅ Great for First-Time Visitors – An immersive introduction to Tombstone’s history.
12. Gunfighter Hall of Fame
The Gunfighter Hall of Fame showcases Tombstone’s frontier legacy through a remarkable collection of firearms, memorabilia, and cowboy gear. This museum offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of legendary figures like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, with exhibits that highlight their personal items alongside weapons used in iconic showdowns.
Walking through the Hall of Fame, I was struck by the authenticity of the artifacts. Each item tells a story, from pistols wielded by notorious outlaws to rifles carried by brave lawmen. This museum doesn’t just display history—it immerses you in it, creating a tangible connection to the Old West.
Why Visit?
✅ See Authentic Firearms & Artifacts – A must for history and Wild West fans.
✅ Learn About the Real Gunslingers of Tombstone – From Wyatt Earp to the Clantons.
✅ Immerse Yourself in Frontier History – A deeply engaging, hands-on experience.
Conclusion
Tombstone offers more than a glimpse into history; it invites visitors to live it. From the action-packed reenactments at the O.K. Corral to the serene beauty of the Rose Tree Museum and the immersive stories of the Historama, this town captures the essence of the Wild West.
As you explore Tombstone, each attraction offers a piece of its rich legacy, blending adventure, education, and timeless charm. “The Town Too Tough to Die” promises an unforgettable journey that stays with you long after you leave. Make Tombstone a part of your travels and discover the spirit of the American frontier.
Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Tombstone vacation rentals for you.
FAQ
1. What is Tombstone, AZ known for?
Tombstone is renowned for its Wild West heritage, especially the famous O.K. Corral gunfight. Its historical attractions, reenactments, and museums bring the 1880s frontier spirit to life.
2. How far is Tombstone, AZ from Tucson?
Tombstone is about 70 miles southeast of Tucson, a scenic drive taking roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes via I-10 E and AZ-80.
3. What are the best family-friendly activities in Tombstone?
Families will love the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park for interactive fun, the tranquil Rose Tree Museum, and the educational Historama multimedia show.
4. Is Boothill Graveyard worth visiting?
Definitely! Boothill Graveyard offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and deaths of Tombstone’s historical figures. The witty epitaphs add humor to this somber yet intriguing site.
5. What’s the best time of year to visit Tombstone, AZ?
Visit in spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) for pleasant weather that’s perfect for walking tours and enjoying outdoor attractions.
6. Are there guided tours available in Tombstone AZ?
Yes, guided tours provide in-depth insights into Tombstone’s history. Options include walking tours along Allen Street and specialized tours of the O.K. Corral and Goodenough Mine.
7. Can you visit Tombstone, AZ in one day?
It’s possible to see highlights in a day, like Allen Street, the O.K. Corral, and Boothill Graveyard. However, staying longer allows for a deeper dive into the town’s rich history and charm.
8. What are some unique places to eat in Tombstone, AZ?
Big Nose Kate’s Saloon offers hearty meals and Wild West flair, while the Crystal Palace Saloon serves classic dishes in a historic setting. For a quicker option, O.K. Café is a great choice.
