Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park
State park preserving Cochise County courthouse
Tombstone, Arizona
Built
1882
Historical Significance
First state park designated in Arizona; courthouse built to serve Cochise County
Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park is a significant historical site located in Tombstone, Arizona. Here are the key details about this landmark:
History and Architecture
The Tombstone Courthouse was built in 1882 in the Victorian style. It served as the Cochise County courthouse until 1929 when the county seat was moved to Bisbee. The two-story building is laid out in the shape of a cross and is considered a fine example of Territorial style architecture.
Museum and Exhibits
Today, the courthouse functions as a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Tombstone’s history as a frontier silver mining boomtown. Visitors can explore:
- Exhibits portraying authentic history of Tombstone
- Artifacts from the town’s past
- Displays on ranching, mining, and gambling in Cochise County
Notable Features
- A replica gallows in the courtyard, marking the spot where seven men were hanged
- The courthouse is the oldest still standing in Arizona
- At the time of construction, it was one of the largest buildings in the Arizona Territory
Visitor Information
- Hours: Open daily, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (June 1 – Sept. 30) and 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Oct. 1 – May 31)
- Admission: Adults (14+): $7.00, Youth (7–13): $2.00, Children (0–6): Free
- Location: 223 Toughnut Street, Tombstone, AZ 85638
The park offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich history of Tombstone, often called “The Town Too Tough to Die”. It provides fact-based interpretations of the area’s history through its professional staff and well-curated exhibits.
What are the best times to visit Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park to avoid crowds
- Weekdays: Visiting on weekdays is generally less crowded than weekends year-round.
- Off-peak months: January, November, and December tend to have fewer visitors and lower hotel prices.
- Summer months: While hot, June, July, and August are considered off-peak months with lower hotel prices, which may indicate fewer crowds.
- Early mornings: The park opens at 9:00 AM daily, so arriving early when it first opens may help avoid crowds.
- Avoid major events: Steer clear of popular events like Helldorado Days in late October, Wyatt Earp Days in May, and other festivals that draw larger crowds.
- Winter months: While colder, the winter months (except for holidays) tend to be quieter.
To maximize your experience:
- Plan your visit for a weekday morning during the off-peak months mentioned above.
- Consider visiting in January or early February before the Vigilante Days event.
- If you must visit during busier periods, arrive early when the park opens at 9:00 AM.
Remember that the park’s hours vary seasonally:
- June 1 – September 30: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- October 1 – May 31: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (5:00 PM on Christmas Day)
By following these suggestions, you’re more likely to enjoy a less crowded visit to Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park.