The 15 Best Things to Do in Tombstone, AZ

The crack of gunfire echoes through the dusty streets as you witness the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. But don't worry – you're not in danger. You've just stepped into Tombstone, Arizona, where history comes alive daily in the most dramatic fashion possible.

Known as "The Town Too Tough to Die," Tombstone rose to fame during the silver boom of the 1880s. What began as a mining camp quickly became a hotbed of outlaws, lawmen, and everyone in between. Today, this National Historic Landmark District welcomes over 450,000 visitors annually, all eager to experience a slice of the Wild West.

As you walk down Allen Street, the town's main thoroughfare, you'll feel like you've stepped onto a movie set. Wooden boardwalks line the street, while saloons and shops housed in restored 19th-century buildings beckon you to explore. Costumed interpreters roam the streets, ready to share tales of Tombstone's colorful past. But Tombstone isn't just about reliving history – it's about experiencing it in a way that's both entertaining and educational.

Ready to dive into the adventures that await in this iconic frontier town? Saddle up, partner – we're about to explore the 15 best things to do in Tombstone, Arizona.

Watch the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

You can't visit Tombstone without witnessing its most famous event. The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral reenactment brings to life the 30-second shootout that made Tombstone legendary. As you enter the historic grounds, the tension is palpable. The air feels thick with dust and anticipation. Suddenly, gunshots ring out, and you're transported back to October 26, 1881. The Earp brothers and Doc Holliday face off against the Clanton-McLaury gang in a battle that would define the Wild West.

The reenactment is more than just blanks and bravado. The actors provide historical context, helping you understand the events leading up to the gunfight and its aftermath. After the show, explore the grounds and see exhibits featuring original artifacts from the era.

Key Information:

• Location: 326 E Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Admission: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for children (8-14)

Why Visit: Experience the most famous 30 seconds in Wild West history brought to life before your eyes.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to get a good spot – the viewing area can get crowded, especially during peak season.

Explore Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park

Step into the 1882 Cochise County Courthouse, now a museum that offers a deep dive into Tombstone's fascinating past. As you climb the steps of this imposing red-brick structure, you're walking in the footsteps of lawmen, outlaws, and ordinary citizens who shaped the town's destiny. Inside, each room tells a different story of Tombstone's heyday.

From exhibits on mining and ranching to displays about famous residents like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, the museum paints a vivid picture of life in the Old West. Don't miss the replica gallows in the courtyard – a stark reminder of frontier justice. The courthouse's second floor offers a bird's-eye view of Tombstone, giving you a new perspective on the town's layout and architecture.

Key Information:

• Location: 223 E Toughnut St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Admission: $7 for adults, $2 for youth (7-13)

Why Visit: Gain a comprehensive understanding of Tombstone's history in one well-curated location.

Insider Tip: Check out the old sheriff's office and jail cells in the basement for a chilling glimpse into 19th-century law enforcement.

Take a Tour of the Bird Cage Theatre

Push through the swinging doors of the Bird Cage Theatre, and you'll swear you can still hear the echoes of rowdy miners and bawdy ladies of the night. This infamous saloon, gambling hall, and brothel operated 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from 1881 to 1889. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved examples of a genuine Old West honky-tonk.

As you wander through the main floor, look up at the 'bird cages' – small balconies where ladies of the evening once entertained their clients. The walls are still pockmarked with over 140 bullet holes, silent witnesses to the theater's wild past. Don't miss the basement, where you can see the longest-running poker game in history took place – lasting a staggering eight years, five months, and three days.

Key Information:

• Location: 535 E Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Admission: $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, $10 for children (8-16)

Why Visit: Experience the most authentic and best-preserved saloon from the Wild West era.

Insider Tip: For an extra thrill, book a nighttime ghost tour – the Bird Cage is said to be one of the most haunted places in Tombstone.

Stroll Down Historic Allen Street

Allen Street is the beating heart of Tombstone, a living museum where the past and present collide in spectacular fashion. As you walk down the wooden boardwalks, you'll pass by historic buildings that have been lovingly restored to their 1880s glory. The street is lined with saloons, shops, and restaurants, many of which have been in continuous operation since Tombstone's early days.

Keep your eyes peeled for street performers and costumed interpreters who bring the Old West to life. You might see a gunslinger twirling his pistols, a lady in a bustle skirt strolling with a parasol, or even Wyatt Earp himself walking the beat. Don't be shy – these folks love to chat and share stories about Tombstone's colorful history.

Key Information:

• Location: Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: 24/7, though most businesses operate from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: Experience the most authentic Old West street scene in America.

Insider Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and get great photos in the golden light.

Descend into the Good Enough Mine

Ever wondered what it was like to be a silver miner in the 1880s? The Good Enough Mine Tour gives you a firsthand look at the conditions that drew thousands of fortune seekers to Tombstone. As you don your hard hat and descend into the cool, dark tunnels, you're stepping back in time to the very source of Tombstone's prosperity.

Your guide will lead you through narrow passages, pointing out veins of silver ore and explaining the backbreaking work of 19th-century mining. You'll see original mining equipment and learn about the dangers miners faced daily, from cave-ins to toxic gases. The tour brings to life the grit and determination of the men who carved out Tombstone's riches from the unyielding rock.

Key Information:

• Location: 5th and Toughnut St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Admission: $15 for adults, $7.50 for children (8-14)

Why Visit: Get a unique, underground perspective on the industry that built Tombstone.

Insider Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a light jacket – it's cool and damp in the mine, even on hot days.

Visit the Tombstone Epitaph Museum

Extra, extra! Step into the offices of the Tombstone Epitaph, the oldest continuously published newspaper in Arizona. Founded in 1880, the Epitaph has been chronicling Tombstone's ups and downs for over 140 years. The museum offers a fascinating look at frontier journalism and the role of the press in shaping the narrative of the Wild West.

As you explore the museum, you'll see vintage printing presses, original newspapers, and exhibits detailing famous stories covered by the Epitaph, including their report on the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. You can even get a reprint of the Epitaph's 1881 edition, complete with the original account of the famous gunfight.

Key Information:

• Location: 11 S 5th St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Discover how news spread in the Old West and get a unique perspective on Tombstone's history.

Insider Tip: Ask about the origin of the paper's name – it's a tale that perfectly captures the spirit of Tombstone.

Pay Your Respects at Boothill Graveyard

Boothill Graveyard is the final resting place of Tombstone's most notorious residents – and a few unlucky visitors who "died with their boots on." As you wander among the weather-worn markers, you'll find a mix of the tragic and the darkly humorous. The epitaphs tell tales of gunfights, mining accidents, and frontier justice, offering a stark glimpse into the harsh realities of life in the Old West.

Look for famous graves like that of the McLaury brothers and Billy Clanton, who fell during the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Don't miss the marker for Lester Moore, whose epitaph reads, "Here lies Lester Moore, Four slugs from a .44, No Les, No More." It's a grim reminder that in Tombstone, life could be brutally short – but at least they had a sense of humor about it.

Key Information:

• Location: 408 AZ-80, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (winter)
• Admission: $3 per person

Why Visit: Experience a unique blend of history and dark humor in this authentic Old West cemetery.

Insider Tip: Pick up a guide at the entrance – it provides fascinating backstories for many of the graves.

Ride the Tombstone Trolley

All aboard for a journey through time! The Tombstone Trolley offers a narrated tour of the town's historic district, giving you a comprehensive overview of Tombstone's layout and history. As you trundle down the streets in this charming replica of a 19th-century trolley, your guide will regale you with tales of Tombstone's past, pointing out significant buildings and sites along the way.

The trolley tour is an excellent way to orient yourself in Tombstone, especially if you're short on time or mobility. You'll learn about everything from the town's founding to its near-ghost town status in the early 20th century, and its revival as a tourist destination. The guides are knowledgeable and often sprinkle their narration with humorous anecdotes about Tombstone's colorful characters.

Key Information:

• Location: Departs from 4th and Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Tours depart hourly from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children (6-12)

Why Visit: Get a comprehensive overview of Tombstone's history and layout in a short, entertaining ride.

Insider Tip: Take the trolley tour early in your visit to help plan which sites you want to explore in more depth later.

Experience the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park

Yee-haw! Get ready for a rootin' tootin' good time at the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park. This family-friendly attraction offers a mix of entertainment and hands-on experiences that bring the Old West to life. The centerpiece is the Gunfight Show, where professional stunt performers reenact Wild West scenarios with a mix of drama and comedy.

But there's more than just gunfights here. Try your hand at gold panning, test your skills at the shooting gallery, or take a ride on the mechanical bull. Kids (and kids at heart) can dress up in Western gear for photos, and there's even a mini train ride around the park. It's a great place to let loose and embrace your inner cowboy or cowgirl.

Key Information:

• Location: 339 S 4th St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Admission: $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $5 for children (6-12)

Why Visit: Enjoy family-friendly Wild West entertainment and activities all in one place.

Insider Tip: Check the schedule for the gunfight shows – they happen several times a day, and you won't want to miss them.

Sip a Sarsaparilla at Big Nose Kate's Saloon

Mosey on into Big Nose Kate's Saloon, named after Doc Holliday's long-time companion, and you'll find yourself in a lively establishment that perfectly captures the spirit of an Old West watering hole. The saloon occupies the former Grand Hotel, where the Clanton brothers stayed just before the famous O.K. Corral gunfight.

While you can certainly get a modern cocktail here, why not try a sarsaparilla? This root beer-like beverage was a popular non-alcoholic drink in the Old West. If you're feeling peckish, don't miss the chance to try their famous cactus fries – a unique Southwestern twist on the classic side dish. Live music often fills the air, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Key Information:

• Location: 417 E Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price Range: $10-$20 for food and drinks

Why Visit: Experience a true Old West saloon atmosphere with modern comforts.

Insider Tip: Check out the "Long Branch Saloon" sign – it's an original prop from the TV show "Gunsmoke."

Take a Ghost Tour of Tombstone

When the sun goes down, Tombstone's darker side comes out to play. Join a ghost tour for a spine-tingling walk through the town's most allegedly haunted locations. Your guide will lead you by lantern light, sharing tales of Tombstone's violent past and the spirits said to linger in its historic buildings.

You'll visit sites like the Bird Cage Theatre, Big Nose Kate's Saloon, and Boothill Graveyard, learning about their ghostly residents. Whether you're a skeptic or a true believer, the tour offers a unique perspective on Tombstone's history and the enduring legends that have grown up around it. Plus, the town takes on a whole new atmosphere after dark, with shadows lengthening and the old buildings looming in the moonlight.

Key Information:

• Location: Tours typically depart from Allen Street
• Hours: Nightly at 8:00 PM
• Admission: $20 for adults, $10 for children (8-12)

Why Visit: Experience Tombstone's spooky side and hear lesser-known stories about the town's history.

Insider Tip: Bring a camera – you never know what might show up in your photos!

Sample Local Brews at Tombstone Brewing Company

Who says you can't find craft beer in the Old West? Tombstone Brewing Company brings a modern twist to this historic town, offering a range of expertly crafted beers with names that pay homage to the area's colorful past. As you step into the taproom, you're greeted by the rich aroma of hops and malts, a sharp contrast to the dusty streets outside.

Try the "Gunfighter Golden Ale" for a light, refreshing option, or go bold with the "Tombstone IPA." The brewery often features seasonal specials, so ask what's new on tap. While you sip, chat with the friendly staff about the brewing process and how they incorporate local ingredients. The outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy your beer while people-watching on Allen Street.

Key Information:

• Location: 107 E Toughnut St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price Range: $5-$8 per beer, tasting flights available

Why Visit: Experience Tombstone's modern side while enjoying high-quality craft beers.

Insider Tip: Try the beer flight to sample a variety of their offerings before settling on your favorite.

Attend a Show at Schieffelin Hall

Step into Schieffelin Hall, and you're entering the largest standing adobe structure in the southwestern United States. Built in 1881 and named after Tombstone's founder, Ed Schieffelin, this grand building once hosted operas, plays, and high-society balls. Today, it continues its legacy as a performance venue, offering a variety of shows that range from historical reenactments to modern theater productions.

The hall's excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere make for a memorable experience, whether you're watching a Wild West show or listening to a local band. As you settle into your seat, take a moment to appreciate the building's architecture and imagine the generations of Tombstone residents who have been entertained within these walls.

Key Information:

• Location: 402 E Fremont St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Varies depending on events
• Admission: Varies by show

Why Visit: Experience a piece of living history while enjoying quality entertainment.

Insider Tip: Check the town's event calendar for upcoming shows at Schieffelin Hall – they often host special performances during festivals.

Visit the Rose Tree Museum

Nestled in the heart of Tombstone is a surprising botanical wonder – the world's largest rose tree. The Rose Tree Museum houses this remarkable plant, which covers over 8,000 square feet and has been blooming for over 135 years. As you step into the museum's courtyard, you're enveloped by the sweet fragrance of thousands of white Lady Banksia roses.

Inside the museum, housed in an 1880s boarding house, you'll find exhibits on Tombstone's early pioneers and the town's transformation from mining camp to tourist destination. Don't miss the chance to see the tree in full bloom, typically from late March to early May. It's a breathtaking sight that offers a gentle contrast to Tombstone's rugged Wild West image.

Key Information:

• Location: 118 S 4th St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Admission: $5 for adults, $2 for children (12 and under)

Why Visit: See the world's largest rose tree and learn about Tombstone's softer side.

Insider Tip: If you visit during blooming season, arrive early in the day to see the roses at their freshest.

Explore the Cochise County Courthouse

While we mentioned the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park earlier, it's worth diving deeper into this fascinating building. As you climb the steps of this imposing red-brick structure, you're walking in the footsteps of some of the Old West's most famous figures. Inside, each room tells a different story of Tombstone's wild years.

Don't miss the courtroom on the second floor, restored to its 1880s appearance. Stand at the judge's bench and imagine the tense trials that once took place here. The museum's exhibits cover everything from mining technology to frontier justice, giving you a comprehensive look at life in territorial Arizona. Be sure to check out the gallows in the courtyard – a grim reminder of how justice was served in the Old West.

Key Information:

• Location: 223 E Toughnut St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Admission: $7 for adults, $2 for youth (7-13)

Why Visit: Get an in-depth look at Tombstone's legal history and territorial Arizona life.

Insider Tip: Don't rush through – take time to read the detailed information accompanying each exhibit for fascinating insights into frontier life.

Structuring Your Tombstone Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

Ready to turn these recommendations into a plan? Here's a suggested 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your Tombstone adventure:

Day 1: Heart of Tombstone

Start your Tombstone experience with a deep dive into the town's most famous attractions:

• Begin with a stroll down Allen Street to soak in the Old West atmosphere
• Watch the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral reenactment
• Explore the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park
• Lunch at Big Nose Kate's Saloon (don't forget to try the cactus fries!)
• Take a tour of the Bird Cage Theatre
• End your day with a spooky Ghost Tour

Day 2: Digging Deeper

On your second day, explore some of Tombstone's less famous but equally fascinating attractions:

• Start with a morning tour of the Good Enough Mine
• Visit the Tombstone Epitaph Museum
• Lunch at the Crystal Palace Saloon
• Explore the Rose Tree Museum
• Take a ride on the Tombstone Trolley for a comprehensive town overview
• Finish your day with dinner and craft beers at Tombstone Brewing Company

Day 3: Old West Fun and Relaxation

Wrap up your Tombstone visit with a mix of entertainment and laid-back exploration:

• Begin at Boothill Graveyard for a morning walk
• Spend a few hours at the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park
• Lunch at Longhorn Restaurant
• Attend an afternoon show at Schieffelin Hall (check local listings)
• End your trip with a sunset visit to Tombstone's Lookout Point for panoramic views of the town and surrounding desert

Remember, Tombstone is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Don't be afraid to adjust this itinerary based on your interests – if you're fascinated by a particular aspect of Tombstone's history, feel free to spend more time exploring it.

Also, keep in mind that Tombstone can get very hot, especially in summer. Start your days early, take breaks in air-conditioned museums or saloons during the hottest part of the day, and don't forget to stay hydrated!

Tombstone offers a unique window into America's Wild West past, and with this itinerary, you'll experience the best of what this historic town has to offer. From gunfights to ghost tours, mining history to modern brews, you'll come away with a rich understanding of this fascinating slice of Arizona history. So saddle up, partner – your Tombstone adventure awaits!

Catch a Show at Wyatt Earp's Oriental Saloon & Theater

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Travel back in time to Tombstone's heyday at Wyatt Earp's Oriental Saloon & Theater. This recreation of the famous lawman's gambling hall offers a unique blend of history and entertainment. As you push through the swinging doors, you're greeted by the sounds of tinkling piano keys and the buzz of conversation, much like visitors would have experienced in the 1880s.

The saloon hosts nightly shows that bring the Old West to life through music, comedy, and historical reenactments. Sip on a sarsaparilla or something stronger as you watch skilled performers transport you to the days when Wyatt Earp himself kept the peace in this very establishment. The attention to historical detail in the decor and performances makes for an immersive experience you won't soon forget.

Key Information:

• Location: 500 E Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM; Shows nightly at 7:00 PM
• Admission: $15 for the show, food and drinks extra

Why Visit: Experience top-notch Old West entertainment in a historically accurate setting.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to grab a good seat and enjoy the pre-show atmosphere of the saloon.

Take a Day Trip to Dragoon Mountains

While Tombstone itself is packed with history, the surrounding landscape offers its own allure. A short drive east of town brings you to the Dragoon Mountains, a rugged range that once served as a stronghold for the Apache chief Cochise. The stark beauty of these mountains, with their towering rock formations and diverse wildlife, provides a stunning contrast to Tombstone's frontier townscape.

Hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the mountains, offering opportunities for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Keep your eyes peeled for desert wildlife, including roadrunners, coyotes, and even the occasional mountain lion. The view from the top of these trails gives you a new perspective on the vast desert landscape that challenged and inspired Tombstone's early settlers.

Key Information:

• Location: Approximately 20 miles east of Tombstone
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience the natural beauty of the Arizona desert and walk in the footsteps of Apache warriors.

Insider Tip: Visit Council Rocks, a series of boulder formations where Cochise is said to have met with U.S. Army officers to negotiate peace.

Explore the Historama at Boothill Graveyard

Before or after your visit to Boothill Graveyard, make sure to check out the Historama. This unique multimedia presentation, narrated by the legendary Vincent Price, offers a comprehensive overview of Tombstone's history. Through a combination of dioramas, sound effects, and narration, the Historama brings to life the story of Tombstone from its founding through its boom years and eventual decline.

The presentation covers major events like the discovery of silver, the arrival of the Earp brothers, and the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. It's a great way to get context for the sites you'll be visiting around town, and Price's dramatic narration adds an extra layer of entertainment to the historical facts.

Key Information:

• Location: 408 AZ-80, Tombstone, AZ 85638 (at Boothill Graveyard)
• Hours: Daily, shows run regularly during graveyard opening hours
• Admission: Included with Boothill Graveyard admission ($3 per person)

Why Visit: Get a comprehensive overview of Tombstone's history narrated by a Hollywood legend.

Insider Tip: Watch the Historama early in your visit to Tombstone to get a solid foundation for understanding the town's other historical sites.

Visit the Larian Motel for a Unique Ghost Tour

For a different kind of ghost tour experience, check out the Larian Motel. This unassuming motel, one of the oldest in Tombstone, offers a unique paranormal investigation experience. Unlike traditional walking ghost tours, this one allows you to use real ghost hunting equipment in a reportedly haunted location.

The tour takes you through various rooms of the motel, each with its own eerie history. You'll use EMF meters, dowsing rods, and other paranormal investigation tools to try and make contact with the other side. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, it's a fun and slightly spooky way to spend an evening, and you'll learn some lesser-known bits of Tombstone history along the way.

Key Information:

• Location: 410 E Fremont St, Tombstone, AZ 85638
• Hours: Tours typically run in the evening, reservations required
• Admission: Varies, check with the motel for current pricing

Why Visit: Experience a hands-on ghost hunting adventure in one of Tombstone's oldest buildings.

Insider Tip: Bring a camera – many visitors report capturing unexplained phenomena in their photos during the tour.

As you wrap up your visit to Tombstone, you'll find that this small town packs a big historical punch. From gunfights and ghost tours to craft beers and nature hikes, Tombstone offers a unique blend of Old West authenticity and modern entertainment. Whether you're a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and educational getaway, Tombstone delivers an experience that's truly one of a kind.

Remember, the spirit of the Old West lives on in Tombstone. As you walk the same streets once trod by Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, listen closely – you might just hear the echoes of gunfire, the clink of saloon glasses, or the whispered tales of silver strikes that made Tombstone the "Town Too Tough to Die." So tip your hat to the past, partner, and enjoy your journey through one of America's most legendary frontier towns!