If you’re in search of a unique day trip that strays from the usual tourist spots, consider exploring some of Arizona’s so-called “worst” towns.

Recently, Bisbee was highlighted as Arizona’s quirkiest town by a geography website. It gained this title mainly due to its rich history, retro atmosphere, and unusual local events.

Many former mining towns across the American West faded into obscurity after resources depleted. However, Bisbee managed to transform into a nostalgic historic location.

So, what makes Bisbee stand out? Let’s explore what it has to offer, along with a few other distinctive towns in Arizona.

What makes Bisbee quirky?

Once the largest town in Arizona, Bisbee boasted a mine that produced eight billion pounds of copper over the course of around a century. Today, it has shrunk into a smaller, quieter community where visitors can ride around on carts to see the old mining caves.

Here are a few of the highlights that showcase Bisbee’s eccentric charm:

• Old Bisbee District: This area features the iconic main street and the Bisbee Mining & History Museum, filled with historic buildings that tell the town’s fascinating story.
• Lowell: A place sort of frozen in time, where vintage cars line the streets, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors and photographers alike.
• Copper Queen Mine Tour: This tour takes you down into a 1,500-foot mine, giving guests a glimpse into Bisbee’s prosperous past of ore production.
• Turkey Vulture Celebration: Each March, the town hosts a parade and various events to celebrate the return of the turkey vultures.

Arizona travel expert Roger Naylor suggests joining different tours like the Bisbee Rockhound Tour and the Old Bisbee Ghost Tour for a richer experience. Plus, don’t forget to check out the town’s smallest bar—the Silver King Hotel Room 4—which is packed into just 100 square feet!

Other unique small towns to consider in Arizona

If you’re hunting for more quirky small towns this summer, there are six other places worth visiting:

• Cottonwood: Nestled in Verde Valley, this historic district features charming shops and restaurants, plus nearby parks and national monuments to explore.
• Patagonia: Known for its breathtaking scenery, this town is perfect for wine tasting and bird watching. Make sure to visit Patagonia Lake State Park for some fun on the water or the Hummingbird Center for a remarkable experience.
• Superior: Another mining town that’s evolved over the years, it now showcases a vibrant art scene and exciting outdoor activities, including an annual donkey race.
• Tombstone: Immortalized in Wild West lore, this Southern Arizona town offers museums, tours, and live reenactments that bring its storied history to life.
• Williams: Often dubbed Arizona’s most charming town, it serves as a gateway to the Grand Canyon. It’s also rich in Route 66 history, complete with fun attractions like the Bearizona wildlife park.