The drive into Bisbee, 94 miles SE of Tucson, is very scenic. The elevation of Bisbee is approximately 5,300 feet. The road from Tombstone to Bisbee takes you into the Mule Mountains, over Mule Pass and through Mule Pass Tunnel. Bisbee itself is carved into Tombstone Canyon. Some of the streets reminded me of Quebec City. Really. Original European architecture, narrow streets and walk in stores that are reminiscent of 19th century French architecture. Bisbee is a classic boom and bust story. Copper mining created the jobs and wealth and when the copper ran out, so did the jobs and wealth. The town however survived and now tourism is the economic engine. In addition, many artisans call Bisbee home bringing in tourists and art lovers.
We arrived in Bisbee in time for afternoon coffee and tea at the Bisbee Coffee Company. I could have sworn that Martina McBribe was behind the counter serving coffee. Don't know who she is? Google it! I can't be explaining everything. After coffee and tea we walked the colourful streets in search of bargains but found none. Oh well, at least the shop owners were friendly.
I have included several pictures of Bisbee, the drive into town and the huge open pit copper mine that you pass on the way out of town. Btw: The weather, normally dry and warm was neither the day we visited. We actually got chased out by a fierce hail storm.
Drive into Bisbee
Bisbee or Quebec City?
Open pit mine.
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