While Sierra Vista is a modern city with all the amenities and comforts you could ask for, there are many areas of Arizona that still represent the Old West. Several of these historical landmarks are just a short drive from Sierra Vista, making them the perfect destinations for day trips, weekend getaways, or even field trips. Here’s a closer look at four Old West towns to put on your Arizona bucket list.
Bisbee
What was once a booming mining town founded in the 1880s has now become a creative haven for artists, musicians, and foodies. Bisbee still maintains lots of its historical charm and offers many glimpses into its past. Visitors can tour the Copper Queen Mine, stay in the historic Copper Queen Hotel, and shop for their own artifacts at the Miners & Merchants Antique Center. In Old Bisbee, you’ll spot many historic buildings that were once home to local miners and merchants.
Tombstone
Tombstone is where Old West history truly comes to life. When you walk along Allen Street in Tombstone, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. “The Town Too Tough to Die” feels like an Old West amusement park and even features daily reenactments of the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral with actors portraying Doc Holliday, the Earps, Billy Clanton, and Tom and Frank McLaury adding their own touch of humor to the well-known events. You’ll also find modern comforts with great restaurants, shops, and one of the best craft breweries in Arizona, Tombstone Brewing Company.
Tubac
Tubac is one of the oldest settlements in Arizona, a Spanish Presidio established in 1752. The remnants of the Presidio can still be visited today at Tubac Presidio State Park, which features the Tubac Schoolhouse built in 1885. You’ll also find plenty of shopping, art galleries, and museums in modern Tubac, along with a golf resort and lush outdoor surroundings among one of the oldest cottonwood groves in the state.
Douglas
Douglas is nestled against the Mexican border, across which you’ll find its sister city of Agua Prieta, Mexico. Douglas traces its history back to the San Bernardino Presidio, which was located nearby. It later became a mining community and ranching town, and, as a key stop on the El Paso and Southwestern. It also boasted some significant cultural venues like the Gadsden Hotel and the Douglas Grand Theater which was once the largest theater between Los Angeles and San Antonio. The Gadsden Hotel, originally built in 1907, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The hotel was destroyed by a fire and later rebuilt in 1929. Today, it still showcases stately features like Tiffany stained glass windows and marble columns.
Whether you are a history buff or you simply want to get to know more about Arizona’s unique Old West origins, there is plenty to discover just outside of Sierra Vista. If you are considering moving to Sierra Vista, Castle & Cooke can help you find your next home in one of two exceptional communities: Holiday and The Oaks. Browse the move-in ready homes and custom home estate sites by visiting our website at castlecookearizona.com.