Tombstone

The basics

While the 1877 silver rush that inspired the development of Tombstone is long gone, the "Town Too Tough to Die," as the Tombstone epitaph goes, did not disappear like the surrounding ghost towns. Instead, the town pulses with the stories of legendary figures like Wyatt Earp and Big Nose Kate, not to mention eclectic Wild West shops, costumed performers, reenactment shows, and more. Visit the iconic O.K. Corral Historic Complex, stroll through the Boot Hill cemetery, take a ghost tour at the Bird Cage Theatre, and learn more about the town's legendary past on a guided Tombstone tour. You can also learn about Tombstone history on a trolley tour.

Things to know before you go

• Fans of Wild West history and movies will enjoy the immersive experience in the streets of this iconic town.

• Allen Street—home to many of Tombstone's historic sites—is closed to cars, making it easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.

• Get in the Western spirit by bringing cowboy attire or purchasing costumes at the local shops.

• Book Tombstone tickets in advance to catch a gunfight show; the popular ones sell out.

• For another historic highlight, head just south of town to the Mission of San Xavier del Bac, which dates to the 18th century.

How to get there

Tombstone, Arizona, is about a 75-minute drive from Tucson. If driving, take I-10 East to AZ-80 East. Some shuttle services transport travelers from the Tucson International Airport. Tours that include round-trip transportation depart from the state's capital, Phoenix.

When to get there

Tombstone's relatively mild weather makes it a popular year-round destination. Summer can get hot, with daytime temperatures peaking higher than 90°F (32°C). Most of the businesses in the historic district are open from midmorning until early evening, while restaurants and saloons stay open into the night.

Where to watch a gunfight reenactment show

Gunfights made this town infamous in Hollywood, so don't miss the opportunity to catch one of the town's frequent reenactment shoot-outs. You can see a recreation of the famous O.K. Corral showdown at the historic O.K. Corral's Streets of Tombstone Theater. Or, head to the town's Western Theme Park to step back in time to 1880s Tombstone.

Is a trip to Tombstone worth it?

Yes, a trip to Tombstone is worth it, especially for history buffs or anyone interested in the Wild West era. The town was founded in 1879 and today serves as a fun—and showy—combination of attractions, shows, and memorabilia. Grab a drink at the Sarsaparilla Emporium and walk around the town.

What's the best time of year to go to Tombstone, Arizona?

The best time to visit is in spring or fall when the weather isn’t too hot to explore Tombstone by foot. The heat can sometimes reach the triple digits Fahrenheit (38°C) in summer, so you may want to avoid June–August. Winter nights can dip near freezing but days are mild.

What types of tours can you do at Tombstone?

Tombstone’s tours focus on its American frontier past. The most popular tours in Tombstone include ghost tours and history tours, tours at the O.K. Corral gunfight site and the Good Enough Silver Mine, and attraction tours like the ones offered at the Bird Cage Theatre.

How many days do you need in Tombstone?

If you’re keen to see most of Tombstone’s main attractions and explore the town at a leisurely pace without rushing, you’ll need at least one full day, but two is recommended. If you’re going in summer, you’ll want to take breaks from the heat, which will stretch out the trip.

How much does it cost to go to Tombstone?

Walking the streets of Tombstone, Arizona, is free. However you'll need to pay for any attractions, shows, museums, and tours you want to do, which generally range from US$10-US$35. Accommodations in the area range from budget to luxury and transportation, souvenirs, food, and drinks are all extra.

Can you take pictures in Tombstone?

Yes, you can take pictures in Tombstone. Most places on the wooden boardwalk allow for photos inside, but a few don’t. Also, keep in mind that some attractions, like the Bird Cage Theater, let you take pictures inside but ask that you don’t post them online without permission.

Ways to explore

While the 1877 silver rush behind Tombstone's boom is long over, the "Town Too Tough to Die" continues to thrive. Stories of legendary figures such as Wyatt Earp and Big Nose Kate draw visitors, along with eclectic Wild West shops, costumed performers, reenactment shows, and period saloons. Visit the landmark OK Corral Historic Complex, stroll through the Boothill Graveyard, take a ghost tour at the Bird Cage Theater, and learn more about the town's legendary past on a guided Tombstone tour.

Accessibility

Allen Street—home to many of Tombstone's historic sites—is closed to cars, making it easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, hat, water bottle

What to wear

Sunscreen, comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

No visit to Tombstone is complete without catching one of the daily gunfight reenactments at the OK Corral.

Amenities

Visitor center, shops and restaurants, gas stations, ATMs

Address 

Tombstone, Arizona, is about 74 miles (119 kilometers) from Tucson and 184 miles (296 kilometers) from Phoenix. Most visitors drive the distance, but day trips that include round-trip transportation also depart from Phoenix.

Driving

From Phoenix or Tucson, take I-10 east to AZ-80 east. There are free parking lots on 3rd Street near Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, on the northwest corner of 4th and Fremont Streets, and on 6th Street near the Bird Cage Theater.

Public transportation

There is no public transportation to Tombstone, and while the city technically has a free shuttle service, it’s not intended for visitors. If you don’t have a car, consider booking a guided tour from Phoenix instead.

Best times to visit

OK Corral gunfight reenactments are scheduled daily at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. Plan to arrive at least an hour in advance to purchase tickets, as they often sell out.

Best days to visit

This popular tourist destination is very crowded on weekends, so visit on a weekday morning.

Best months to visit

The summer heat makes visiting Tombstone between June and September a chore. April, May, October, and November offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Special events

Tombstone has been holding Helldorado Days each October for almost a century. Visit this time of year for Wild West reenactments and a famous Sunday parade.