Queen Mine Tour
Descend 1,500 feet into Bisbee's historic copper mine on a thrilling buggy ride, guided by former miners sharing captivating stories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Queen Mine Tour
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend 1,500 feet into Bisbee's historic copper mine on a thrilling buggy ride, guided by former miners sharing captivating stories.
"This tour is so worth doing, you’ll learn about the history of mining in Tombstone and how miners did it back then."
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
The mine stays a cool 50-60°F year-round. A light jacket is essential to stay comfortable.
👟 Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the uneven terrain inside the mine.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ride the Mine Cart
Queen Mine
Experience a thrilling ride 1,500 feet into the historic copper mine on a specially designed buggy.
Miner's Life Stories
Queen Mine
Hear firsthand accounts from guides who once worked in the mines, sharing tales of hard work and history.
Underground Illumination
Queen Mine
Witness the mine's depths illuminated by blacklights, revealing fascinating mineral deposits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress for the Underground
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
The mine stays a cool 50-60°F year-round. A light jacket is essential to stay comfortable.
👟 Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the uneven terrain inside the mine.
⏳ Allow 70 Minutes
The tour typically lasts about 70 minutes, so plan your day accordingly.
💡 Ask Questions!
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable. Don't hesitate to ask about mining history and geology.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
The mine stays a cool 50-60°F year-round. A light jacket is essential to stay comfortable.
👟 Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the uneven terrain inside the mine.
⏳ Allow 70 Minutes
The tour typically lasts about 70 minutes, so plan your day accordingly.
💡 Ask Questions!
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable. Don't hesitate to ask about mining history and geology.
📸 Capture the History
While photography is allowed, be mindful of your surroundings and the group.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Queen Mine Tour for its knowledgeable and engaging guides, many of whom have personal experience in mining. The unique experience of riding into the mine and learning about its history is a major draw. While the cool temperatures and uneven terrain are noted, most find it a worthwhile adventure.
"This tour was amazing!! You go under 100+ feet to the mine with the guide. Our guide was Buck and he was extremely knowledgeable and nice. This tour is so worth doing, you’ll learn about the history of mining in Tombstone and how miners did it back then. You’ll also learn about the different types of rocks to be found under there."
Gabrielle Sales
"We had heard about this dinner tour on our first visit to Tombstone and made a point to come back for it. Robert, our host for the evening, started out with an excellent tour of the Toughnut mine, showing us different key minerals and mining artifacts along the way and giving us the history of how the mines played a key role in the early history of Tombstone. The route through the mine is not difficult (as long as you watch your head in a few places). If you can hike on a rocky trail, you will do fine in the mine. Dinner 100 feet down in the mine is a unique experience and the re-enacted personal stories of some of Tombstone's residents during the meal adds more historic perspective to the character of this part of southern Arizona in the early days. Not to be missed if you are in the area."
Jeremy Bishop
"I had a great experience George was knowledgeable and compelling. If you get a chance take this tour you will not regret it. Also you can take a trolly tour of the town with a Gordon who looks like a prospector and who knows all the high points."
Adrian Pacheco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Queen Mine Tour is located at 478 N Dart Rd, Bisbee, AZ 85603. Bisbee is accessible by car, and parking is available near the tour entrance. Many visitors find it a scenic drive through southern Arizona.
The tour involves a mine cart ride and walking on uneven surfaces. While the route isn't overly strenuous, it's recommended for those who can hike on a rocky trail. Ages 5 and under are not allowed.
After your Queen Mine Tour, explore the historic streets of Bisbee, browse the unique shops, and enjoy the local art scene. Some visitors also recommend a trolley tour of the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally around $14-$16 for adults and $8 for children aged 6-12. It's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing and to book online.
While it's possible to purchase tickets on the day, booking online in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Operating hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the official Queen Mine Tour website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and availability.
Yes, children aged 5 and under are not permitted on the Queen Mine Tour due to safety regulations.
Refund policies can differ, so it's best to review the terms and conditions when booking your tickets online or contact the tour operator directly for specific information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll board a mine buggy and travel 1,500 feet into the historic copper mine. Guides, often former miners, share fascinating stories about the mining history and life underground. +1
While you go deep underground, many visitors, even those who are claustrophobic, find the tour manageable and fascinating. The mine is well-lit in sections, and the guides are experienced.
Photography is generally permitted inside the mine, but it's important to be respectful of the tour group and the environment. Be mindful of lighting conditions.
The temperature inside the mine remains consistently cool, around 50-60°F (10-15°C) year-round.
The Queen Mine Tour typically lasts for about 70 minutes from start to finish.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Queen Mine Tour itself doesn't typically include dining, Bisbee offers a variety of restaurants and cafes near the mine entrance and throughout the historic town.
It's generally not recommended to bring food or drinks into the mine to preserve the historical integrity and cleanliness of the underground environment.
Bisbee has a diverse culinary scene, ranging from casual cafes and diners to more upscale restaurants, offering a taste of local Arizona flavors and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The mine buggy ride, the illuminated mineral veins, and the historical mining equipment offer great photo opportunities. The entrance area also provides a good backdrop.
While flash photography might be permitted, it's best to check with your guide. Using natural light or a camera with good low-light performance is often more effective.
A camera with good low-light capabilities or a smartphone with a strong night mode will be beneficial. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the underground spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress everyone in layers, as the mine is cool, and ensure all children wear closed-toe shoes. Since children aged 5 and under are not permitted, this tour is best suited for families with slightly older kids who can appreciate the history and the unique environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1To maximize your budget, consider visiting on a weekday morning when crowds are typically smaller, potentially leading to a more in-depth interaction with your guide. Pack snacks and water, as dining options directly at the mine are limited, but Bisbee itself has many affordable eateries.
💑 Couples & History Buffs
Consider booking an afternoon tour to allow for a leisurely morning exploring Bisbee's charming streets and art galleries before heading underground. The cool temperatures inside the mine also provide a welcome respite from the Arizona sun, making it a perfect activity for any time of day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Copper Queen Mine
+1During its active years, the mine employed thousands of workers, many of whom were immigrants drawn to the promise of work. The Queen Mine Tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and understand the challenging conditions these miners faced daily. Guides often share personal anecdotes, bringing the history to life with vivid details about the labor, the dangers, and the camaraderie.
Today, the Queen Mine Tour serves as a living museum, preserving the stories and the physical remnants of this important era. It's a testament to the hard work and resilience of the people who built Bisbee and contributed to the nation's industrial growth. The tour provides an educational and engaging experience for visitors interested in mining history and the American West.
+1Navigating the Underground Experience
Once inside, visitors will find the environment consistently cool, around 50-60°F, making a light jacket or sweater a practical necessity, even on a hot Arizona day.
+1 The terrain within the mine can be uneven, so wearing closed-toe, sturdy shoes is crucial for safety and comfort. While the tour is generally not considered difficult, it requires the ability to walk on rocky surfaces and watch your head in certain areas. Guides play a pivotal role in enhancing the experience. Many have personal connections to the mining industry, offering authentic insights and stories that go beyond textbook facts. They often use tools like blacklights to reveal hidden mineral deposits, adding a visually captivating element to the tour.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit