Interview Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Tombstone and its Marketing Manager
01:30 Tombstone’s Status as a Crown Jewel of Wild West Towns
03:26 Tombstone’s History and Importance
05:21 Kid-Friendly Activities in Tombstone
11:37 Exploring Tombstone’s Ghostly Side
18:16 Dining and Accommodation Options in Tombstone
When you think of the Wild West, names like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday might come to mind, and no place embodies their spirit quite like Tombstone, Arizona. Known as the “Town Too Tough to Die,” Tombstone is a living relic of America’s frontier past, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the lawless days of gunfights, silver strikes, and larger-than-life characters. Thanks to my interview with Bruce Burnett, Tombstone’s marketing manager, I learned all the reasons why this town keeps drawing visitors year after year.
The History That Built Tombstone
Founded in 1879, Tombstone was originally a mining town after a prospector struck one of the largest silver veins in Arizona. At its peak, the town was the largest city west of the Mississippi River—bigger than even Los Angeles or Phoenix. But Tombstone’s fame doesn’t just come from its silver. It’s the town’s legendary gunfight at the OK Corral that put it on the map. Wyatt Earp, his brothers, and Doc Holliday took on the infamous Cowboys, and though debates still rage about who the “good guys” were, one thing is clear: Tombstone’s history is forever linked to Wild West folklore.
Today, much of that history is still alive. With original buildings dating back to the late 1800s and authentic historic landmarks, walking down the streets of Tombstone feels like stepping into a time machine. The town’s legacy has been immortalized in movies like Tombstone and Wyatt Earp, adding to its mystique and allure for visitors from all over the world.
Listen to Ep. 52: Gunslingers & Dusty Trails: Exploring iconic Wild West towns
Must-See Attractions for Families
One of Tombstone’s major draws is how kid-friendly it is, despite its gritty history. The town regularly hosts gunfight reenactments, allowing kids to see what a Wild West showdown might have been like. The Tombstone Vigilantes put on free shows every second and fourth Sunday, where you can even “get hung” (don’t worry, it’s all in good fun!). For a truly immersive experience, families should check out the Good Enough Mine Tour, one of the original silver mines in town. Kids can even try their hand at mining for stones and minerals while visiting a petting zoo featuring llamas, donkeys, and more.
The Tombstone Courthouse, Arizona’s first state park, offers interactive exhibits for young visitors, including Junior Park Ranger events. And for the more adventurous, don’t miss out on the bull riding events held throughout the year, which are as entertaining for kids as they are for adults.
A Year-Round Destination
Tombstone is a town for all seasons, with events lined up for every time of the year. Visit during the Fourth of July for a massive water balloon fight and fireworks display, or come during Christmas to see the Electric Light Parade, a heartwarming event featuring decorated tractors and floats. If you’re lucky, you might catch the town’s unique donkey races or pie-eating contests. And for those intrigued by the paranormal, Tombstone hosts ghost tours and even a family-friendly Ghost Hunt 101 during its Wild West Paracon event.
Dining and Accommodations
After a day of exploring, you’re bound to work up an appetite. For breakfast, locals recommend the OK Café, famous for its quirky décor, including a buffalo head mounted on the wall. Big Nose Kate’s Saloon is another must-visit, serving up Western classics while screening the movie Tombstone on repeat. With live music and a vast collection of memorabilia, it’s an experience the whole family will enjoy.
For those who want a more traditional Wild West dining experience, the Crystal Palace is a time capsule of history, offering a menu filled with hearty fare. If you’re craving a quick bite, check out the Hitching Post, where you’ll find sandwiches and hot dogs at unbeatable prices. And for dessert, the kids will love the pizza and ice cream parlor that doubles as an arcade.
When it’s time to settle in for the night, Tombstone has a range of accommodations, from the historic Larian Motel to the all-inclusive Tombstone Monument Ranch. If you’re a fan of ghost stories, stay at one of the town’s haunted hotels like the Hotel Tombstone or the Tombstone Bordello House.
Why Tombstone Keeps People Coming Back
What makes Tombstone such an enduring destination? According to Bruce, it’s the town’s ability to balance historical authenticity with a family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors come for the gunfights, but they stay for the sense of community and fun events. And with a history as rich and colorful as Tombstone’s, there’s always something new to discover—whether it’s a haunted hotel or the world’s largest rose bush (yes, it’s in Tombstone and dates back to the 1800s!).
Tombstone is more than just a stop on a Wild West road trip. It’s a living museum where history comes alive, making it a perfect destination for families, history buffs, and anyone looking to experience the real Wild West. So saddle up, make your way to discover Tombstone, and you’ll understand why this town truly is “too tough to die.”
For more information on planning your visit, including restaurant and hotel listings, check out DiscoverTombstone.com.
