After being nicknamed “The Town Too Tough To Die,” it’s no surprise that Tombstone in southern Arizona is still very much alive after first surfacing in the late 1870s. Even though Tombstone is considered a small town, the activities and places to visit seem endless.

Tombstone may be best famous for the gunfight at the O.K. Corral that took place in 1881, a 30-second standoff between eight men during a time when law enforcement was almost nonexistent. Today, tourists can still hear loud gunshots echoing in the streets — from the reenactments, of course.

With the mild, year-round climate of Southern Arizona, Tombstone can be visited anytime during the year. The town buzzes seven days a week, giving tourists the chance to see exciting shows on the streets, museums and historic sites pertaining to the town’s heritage, as well as giving visitors the option to go on ghost hunts, if they dare.

People can walk down Tombstone’s most famous streets — Allen, Fremont and Toughnut. These streets house some of the town’s most historic buildings, some even dating back to the beginning of Tombstone’s existence.

The O.K. Corral and Historama Museum features life-sized figures of the infamous battle, as well as daily gunfights, immersing tourists in the rich history. Tombstone is also home to the Rose Tree Museum and Books, which houses the world’s largest rose tree, covering over 9,000 square feet.

Wyatt Earp House and Gallery is a great stop for those that enjoy viewing Southwestern historical art and Arizona artifacts. The museum, located at the Earp house, even houses a bronze statue of Wyatt Earp himself, a man who was famously involved in the O.K. Corral gunfight.

The Tombstone Trolley is another great way to indulge in the history of this old town. The ride promises a narrative of the history and legends of Tombstone, as well as taking tourists to the Boothill Graveyard, where many past citizens rest.

The area surrounding the town of Tombstone offers other ways to keep busy. The region is great for those looking for adventure, with the Dragoon Mountains perfect for off-road tours, where old mine shafts, Spanish Ruins and ghost towns can be seen.

A 20 minute drive from town takes visitors to the Fairbank Ghost Town. Many buildings, including the old schoolhouse, are still standing, making it the area’s most complete ghost town, which has been around since the late 1800s.

 

Come back in July; we’ll have more “Places to See” then!