Riordan Mansion

Timothy and Michael Riordan built the Riordan Mansion in Flagstaff in 1904. The Riordan’s were owners of Flagstaff’s logging company and their wives were sisters. The brothers built two large mansions side by side on a 50-acre low grassy hill. The mansion was first called Kinlichi, which is Navajo for red hill. Charles Whittlesey was the architect for the mansions. Whittlesey later went on to design and construct El Tovar Hotel at the Grand Canyon. The craftsman style of architecture is evident in both homes and in El Tovar.

The mansions used pine, native volcanic rock and stone for its construction. Each of the two story homes includes approximately 5,000 feet and 40 rooms. A single story recreation room or billiard room connects the two homes. Riordan Mansion opened as a state park in 1983. Tours are offered daily. During the tour, you will see original artifacts, furniture and mementos left by the Riordan Family. The home contains a collection of furnishing from Edison, Stickley, Tiffany and Steinway.
The park has a visitor center and picnic tables. The visitor center offers an exhibit area, informative slide program and a children’s area. Visitors will receive a brochure when embarking on a self-guided tour of the mansion. The brochure describes the mansion and surrounding attractions.

The Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is open every day from 8:00 to 5:00 during May through September with tours at 9:00,10:00, 11:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00. During October through April the park is open 12:30 to 5:00 with tours at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00. The cost of admission is $4.00 for adults and $2.50 for children under 13.

The park is located at 1300 Riordan Ranch Street in Flagstaff near the northwest part of Northern Arizona University. You can get to the park from Phoenix or Tucson by taking Interstate 17 north out of town toward Flagstaff. Once you junction of Interstate 17 and Interstate 40 continue to head north approximately a half of a mile on Milton Road. Then turn right on Riordan Road and follow the signs to the park. It is recommended that you call in advance for reservations and allow at least an hour for your visit. The number is 520-779-4395.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

The Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is where water and rock have combined to make the world’s largest natural travertine bridge. The travertine bridge has an arch that spans 150 feet and reaches 180 feet above Pine Creek. The tunnel under the bridge is 400 feet long carved through limestone. On top of the bridge is 5 acres of tillable soil. This area on top of the bridge has caused many visitors to say, “Just where is the bridge?” When actually, the bridge is right beneath them!

The formation of the natural bridge took thousands of years to create and went through four main stages of development. The first stage was made by a lava flow, which left behind a purple quartz sandstone on the west side of Pine Creek. The next stage was when the entire area was immersed in seawater. This left behind sand and mud. Then came volcano eruptions that covered the layers creating a basalt cap. After time, this basalt cap broke down making Pine Creek Canyon.

The fourth stage was when water began seeping up underground resulting in limestone aquifers. The aquifers dissolved the limestone and formed a travertine dam. After time, the water in the creek eroded the travertine and formed the bridge. The first time that the natural bridge was spotted was around 1872 by General Crook’s army. It is said that the group saw the bridge while watering their horses in Pine Creek Canyon.

But the bridge wasn’t truly discovered until David Gowan; a miner who was passing through the area came upon it in 1877. While traveling in the small valley between the town of Pine and Payson, he was spotted by a band of Apache Indians. During Gowan’s escape, he found the bridge and the caves sprinkled along the canyon’s sides. Gowan spend several days hiding out in a cave before he ventured out. Once he did, he fell in love with the bridge and the rich valley above it.
After claiming squatter’s rights, Gowan eventually convinced his nephew, David Gowan Goodfellow to come out from Scotland and join him in building a home. Andy Ogilvie also met up with Goodfellow in building a lodge in 1927. Goodfellow build six guest cabins for tourists and planted an orchard that can still be seen today. The road down to the lodge and bridge was quite a task to complete. In 1927, the road was finally finished taking six years to construct. There are even stories that Al Capone and Zane Grey once stayed at the lodge to see the world’s largest travertine natural bridge.

In 1991 the bridge, lodge and land were purchased by the Arizona State Parks. Today the lodge has many of the furnishings that were brought down to valley by rope or mule many years ago. The lodge includes many displays describing the stages that the natural bridge went through. Visitors will learn a lot about the history of the area and the people that made this place their home.

There are three hikes available, depending on your energy and time. The Waterfall Trail is the shortest hike. It is 300 feet long and ends at a waterfall cave. There are uneven steps along this path. The Pine Creek Trail is about a half a mile long.

About 400 feet of this path is developed and the rest is undeveloped and follows the creek to the bridge. Hikers will need to watch for the arrows marking the trail and allow one hour to complete. The Gowan Loop Trail is also about a half a mile long. This path consists mostly of boardwalks and steps, which lead out to an observation deck at the bottom of the creek. It is recommended that hikers wear proper shoes and be ready for a steep rough hike, when taking either the Pine Creek Trail or the Gowan Loop Trail.

If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You can still experience the bridge by walking out to four viewpoints at the top of the natural bridge. These viewpoints give wonderful vantage sights at this one of a kind creation.

Visitors will find a variety of programs and activities provided by the park. There are guided viewpoint walks, lodge tours, geology talks, guided Pine Creek hikes, bird watching walks and a junior ranger program. You will need to call ahead or stop in and ask what is currently available. There are picnic tables, grills, trails, restrooms, a group use area and a gift shop. This park has so much to offer that everyone will find something that will be of interest.

The state park is open everyday from 8:00 to 7:00 from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 9:00 to 5:00 from November to March and 8:00 to 6:00 during April, September and October. The park is closed on Christmas.

Admission charge is $5.00 for private vehicle (holding four individuals), $1.00 for pedestrians and children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. If you would like more information on the activities at the park, you may call 520-476-4202.

In order to keep the park safe and clean, there are some park rules that visitors need to follow. There is no swimming or wading under the bridge, no littering, pets must be on leash and please don’t destroy or take any of nature’s work, such as rocks and plants.

You can get the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park from Payson by taking State Highway 87 north out of town. It is approximately 13 miles north of Payson, on the left side of highway. The road down to the parking area is about 3 miles.

If you are coming from Tucson take Interstate 17 north out of town toward Phoenix. Once you are in Phoenix take U.S. Highway 60 east, until it connects with State Highway 87. Take State Highway 87 (Beeline Highway) out of the East Valley and head north up to Payson.
If you are coming from Flagstaff take Interstate 17 south out of town to Camp Verde. Once you are in Camp Verde take State Highway 260 east through Camp Verde. When State Highway 260 meets State Highway 87, travel south on 87 down through Pine/Strawberry. The park is just before you reach Payson, on the right hand side of the road.

This is a state park you won’t want to miss, especially on a hot summer day. The cool water that sprays off the top of the travertine bridge 150 feet above and drifts down to the creek is a sight to see. Although, the hikes can be rugged, they do pay off in the end.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

The name Dead Horse Ranch State Park came about during a visit to several ranches in the Verde Valley. Cavin Irey’s was out with his children looking for a ranch to purchase for his family. At the end of the day, he asked his children which ranch they liked the best. They responded by saying the one with the “dead horse”. The children were referring to the ranch that had a bleached skeleton of an animal on its property. When Irey’s bought the ranch he in turn, named it “Dead Horse Ranch”. Then in 1973 he sold it to the State and asked that the name be kept. The park was dedicated in 1977.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park covers 328 acres and is at an elevation of 3,300 feet. Lush riparian habitat and abundant wildlife are found at the park. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is best known for its bird watching. The Verde River attracts many migratory birds. There are 130 different kinds of birds living in the park. Blue herons, mallards and other water birds have been spotted in the area.

There are several walking trails along the bank of the Verde River. While walking through the park be on the look out for a variety of wildlife. Raccoons, beavers and coyotes like the habitat the park offers.

If you are interested in fishing, you will find both pond and stream fishing areas. Fishing is available year-round at the lagoon. The four-acre lagoon is stocked with catfish and bass and during the winter trout. The Verde River has bass, carp, catfish and other warm-water fish. You will need a license to fish at the park.

The park is a full-facility campground. Campers will find 45 camping units available. There is a 15-day limited stay. There are restrooms, showers, electric hookup and a dump station. The picnic area includes 26 picnic tables and grills.

The park also has many other great activities. Visitors can canoe and horseback ride.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park is open every day from 8:00 to 8:00 pm. The campground is open 24 hours a day. The ranger station has varied hours. The best months to visit are during the spring and fall. If you are interested in more information on the park, you may call 520-634-5283.

You can get to the park from Cottonwood by traveling to the junction of State Highway 279 and State Highway 89A in town. Here you will see the signs directing you to the park. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson, you will take Interstate 17 north out of town. Then take exit 287 off the Interstate and head west on State Highway 260. Continue on State Highway 260, until you get to Cottonwood. Once you are in Cottonwood, follow the signs to the park. If you are coming from Flagstaff, you will take State Highway 89A south out of town. Continue on State Highway 89A through Sedona and into Cottonwood. Once you are in Cottonwood at the junction of State Highway 89A and State Highway 260, you will see the signs directing you to the park. If you are in Jerome take State Highway 89A east out of town down to the town of Cottonwood. Once you are in Cottonwood at the junction of State Highway 89A and State Highway 260 look for the signs for the park.

Dead Horse State Park is a remarkable park full of plant and wildlife, so close to town.

Tuzigoot National Monument

Tuzigoot National Monument was created to preserve the Indian culture of the area. The name Tuzigoot is an Apache word for “crooked water”. The site covers 42 acres and has so many things to offer its visitors.

The Sinaguan Indians built Tuzigoot in 1000 A.D. The Sinagua Indians worked the land and traded with other cultures. Then in 1400 the Indians just vanished. Tuzigoot is the remains of their village or pueblo. The pueblo includes 110 rooms with second and third story structures.

Visitors will discover two popular trails when arriving at Tuzigoot National Monument, the Ruins Loop Trail and the Tavasci Marsh Overlook trail. The Tavasci Marsh Overlook Trail is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs and strollers are not recommended on the Ruins Loop Trail. These trails are approximately a quarter mile long and give visitors a terrific opportunity to see the structures up close. Hikers are asked to keep pets on leash and stay on the trail for their safety and protection. Due to the monument’s fragile state, visitors are also reminded that climbing or sitting on the pueblo walls is prohibited.

The Tavasci Marsh Overlook Trail goes to the Tavasci Marsh. This is one of the few freshwater marshes found in Arizona . The marsh is a habitat for birds and wildlife. Some of the different animals living in and around the marsh are beaver, muskrat, deer, javalina and a variety of birds. The Arizona Game and Fish Department manages this wildlife sanctuary. If you would like more information on this marsh, you may call 520-692-7700.

The Visitor Center has many artifacts on display. It has a special area dedicated to the culture of the Sinagua culture. There are talks and guided tours offered everyday depending on the staff availability. Junior Ranger Program guides are also available on request. There are no concession or camping facilities offered at the monument

The monument is open everyday, except Christmas Day. The hours vary depending on the season. In the summer the hours are 8:00 to 7:00 pm and during the winter the hours are 8:00 to 5:00 pm. The entrance fee is $2.00 a person and children under 16 are free. The Golden Eagle Passport is accepted at the monument. The most popular months to visit are March through September.

You will enjoy your visit so much more, if you come prepared. Make sure you allow at least 45 minutes to take in the monument and wear comfortable shoes. If you would like more information on Tuzigoot National Monument, you may call 520-634-5564.

You can get to the monument from Cottonwood by taking the Main Street north toward the town of Clarkdale. On the way to Clarkdale there are the signs to Tuzigoot National Monument. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson, you will take Interstate 17 north out of town. Then take exit 287 off the Interstate and head west on State Highway 260. Continue on State Highway 260, until you get to Cottonwood. Once you are in Cottonwood take the Main Street north toward the town of Clarkdale. On the way to Clarkdale there are the signs to Tuzigoot National Monument. If you are coming from Flagstaff, you will take State Highway 89A southwest out of town. Continue on State Highway 89A through Sedona and follow the signs into Cottonwood. Once you are in Cottonwood take the Main Street north toward the town of Clarkdale. On the way to Clarkdale there are the signs to Tuzigoot National Monument. If you are in Jerome, take State Highway 89A east to the town of Centerville and then turn toward Clarkdale. Once you are in Clarkdale follow the signs to Tuzigoot National Monument.

This monument is a unique look into an ancient culture. It an interesting experience.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument is a cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua Indians in 1150. Later, in the 1300’s it was abandoned for reasons still unknown today. The settlers who first discovered the dwelling’s remains believed that the Aztec emperor Montezuma, who was fleeing from the Spanish conquistadors, built it. Thus, the name Montezuma Castle was given to the structure. The name has stuck. The word castle can be a stretch. You will not find a true castle, but in those times I am sure it was a castle. A structure nestled in the limestone recess is an amazing sight.

The dwelling is a 5-story stone and mortar structure set back underneath a cliff ledge at a height of 100 feet. It is believed that wood ladders connected the different floor levels. The structure includes 20 rooms and was occupied by about 50 people. The location of the dwelling was ideal. The cliff overhang gives protection from rain, snow, and the hot summer sun. In addition, the dwelling overlooks Beaver Creek.

There is another much larger structure built against the base of the cliff, but unfortunately it did not stand the test of time as well as the cliff structure. It is now badly deteriorated. The larger structure called “Castle A” had 6-stories and about 45 rooms.

It is believed that the ash-pink adobe castle was reached by a series of ladders placed against the face of the cliff. Its first floor is a horizontal row of eight rooms. Some of the bricks set in cement still show the fingerprints of the original mason. The roofs were probably constructed in the usual pueblo manner with sycamore beams and successive toppings of small sticks, reeds and thick layer of adobe that formed the floor of the story above. As the community grew, each new family constructed its own addition to the castle. The structure is forty feet high and the fifth story reaches the very top of the natural cave. The number of rooms decreases in each ascending story till the fifth story has but two rooms and a plaza on it.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best-preserved examples of cliff dwellings in the country. Over a million visitors come to see the dwelling each year. Due to its popularity, there is a heightened concern for its preservation. These dwellings are very fragile, so visitors are not permitted to walk through the structure. The taking of cultural and natural materials from the site is also prohibited.

Visitors can see the dwellings from the path at the base of the cliff. This path is wheelchair accessible. The paved one third of a mile self-guided trail is the only way to view the dwelling. Rangers are available on the trail to answer questions.

A Visitor Center has many artifacts found in the area on display. There are exhibits showing what life was like for the Sinagua people. A diorama/audio program depicts an interior view of the cliff dwellings. Visitors will also learn about the various plant, wildlife and geology of the Verde Valley, where Montezuma Castle is located. The Visitor Center has books for sale that are great for learning more about the past cultures, wildlife and plants.

Springtime is the most popular time to visit. December and January are the slowest times of the year. Visitors are urged to plan on spending 45 minutes to an hour taking in the Monument. There are picnic tables available near the creek. Benches and drinking fountains are sprinkled along the path to the cliff dwelling.

Montezuma Castle National Monument is open everyday from 8:00 to 5:00, during the winter months and 8:00 to 7:00 pm from Memorial Day to Labor Day. If you would like more information on the Monument, you may call 520-567-3597.

Montezuma Castle National Monument is approximately three miles north of Camp Verde. You can get there from Camp Verde by taking Main Street north out of downtown Camp Verde. This road changes into Montezuma Castle Highway. Continue along the highway, until you see signs for the turn off to the castle. You can get there from Phoenix or Tucson by taking Interstate 17 north out of town. When you get to exit 289 for Camp Verde take it. Head east on Middle Verde Road for a short distance, until you see the signs for the Monument. It is approximately 90 miles north of Phoenix. You can get to the Monument from Flagstaff by taking Interstate 17 south out of town. When you get to exit 289 for Camp Verde take it. Head east on Middle Verde Road for a short distance, until you see the signs for the Monument. The monument is approximately 50 miles south of Flagstaff.

Montezuma Castle National Monument is a special place to me. My mother worked and lived at the Monument, while I was in school at Northern Arizona University. I have many memories of weekends wandering the grounds after dark, in the shadow of the Sinagua Indian home.

Montezuma Well

Montezuma Well is a natural limestone sinkhole and lake.  It was formed by a collapse of a large underground cavern.  This cavern is filled continuously by a nearby spring.  The sinkhole is 470 feet across and is only partly filled by a 55-foot deep lake.

During 1100 the Hohokam Indians used the spring for building irrigation ditches.  Then later in 1125 the Sinagua Indians drew upon the well to sustain their life.

Montezuma Well is a unique spot.  It is surrounded by lush vegetation, yet it is in the middle of the desert.  The water from the lake attracts birds.  It is a beautiful spot to visit.  Visitors can hike a half-mile trail to the rim of the well.  There are other trails that wind down to the lake.

You will not find a Visitor Center at Montezuma Well.  There is however, a Hohokam Indian pit house exhibit along the road up to Montezuma Well.  Visitors will also discover a picnic area.

Montezuma Well is a part of Montezuma Castle National Monument.  Montezuma Well is open everyday.  There is no admission charge to the well.  If you have questions, you may call 520-567-3322.

It is located approximately 11 miles northeast of Montezuma Castle.  You can get there from Camp Verde by getting on Interstate 17 and heading north to exit 298.  Take exit 298 and head east, toward Beaver Creek Road.  You will follow Beaver Creek Road northeast to the Well.  You can get to the Well from Phoenix or Tucson by taking Interstate 17 north out of town toward Flagstaff.  When you pass Camp Verde be on the lookout for exit 298.   Take exit 298 and head east, toward Beaver Creek Road.  You will follow Beaver Creek Road northeast to the Well.

You can get to Montezuma Well from Flagstaff by taking Interstate 17 south out of town to Camp Verde.  Before you reach Camp Verde, you will take exit 298.  Take exit 298 and head east, toward Beaver Creek Road.  You will follow Beaver Creek Road northeast to Montezuma Well.

Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park began as the Pendley family’s homestead, which included an apple orchard. It is nestled in the lush Oak Creek Canyon and is what many consider Mother Nature’s Playground. Today, the 43-acre Slide Rock State Park contains Oak Creek Canyon’s most amazing feature. A 30-foot natural rock waterslide worn in the rocks winds through the creek and gives visitors an exciting thrill ride. If you are interested in taking the plunge, make sure you come prepared. Bring along a pair of denim shorts for the slide and be ready for the cool 65-degree water flowing down the canyon. The park does have other activities for its visitors. You may fish or do some nature watching.

Picnickers will enjoy their meal within the canyon’s red rock walls and pine forests bordering Oak Creek. Visitors will also find picnic tables, grills, a snack bar and hiking trails. The new expanded parking area and facilities are a great improvement. Due to the park’s popularity, these upgrades were a necessity. Visitors will discover the original apple orchard still growing nearby. There are several varieties of apples growing in the orchard. If you are interested in some cider or caramel apples, you should visit the snack
bar.

Slide Rock State Park would like to protect the wildlife and plant life in the area. In order to do so, the park does not allow glass containers or pets. The hours depend on the time of year. During May through September, its hours are 8:00 to 7:00 pm. Then from October to November and the month of April, the hours become 8:00 to 6:00 pm. For all the other months, the park is open 8:00 to 5:00 pm. The cost of admission is $5.00 per vehicle. If you would like more information on the park’s hikes or guided trails, you may call 520-282-3034.

You can get to Slide Rock State Park from Sedona, by taking State Highway 89 north out of town. You will need to look for the signs directing you from the highway. It is approximately 5 miles outside of town. You can get to the park from Phoenix or Tucson by taking Interstate 10 north out of town, past the town of Camp Verde. When you get to the exit for State Highway 179, take it and continue heading north up to Sedona. When you get to Sedona take State Highway 89 north up through Oak Creek to the park. If you are coming from Flagstaff, take State Highway 89 south out of town. You will go through Oak Creek Canyon along the way you will see the signs for the park.

Slide Rock State Park is where I spent many of my Saturday afternoons during my college day. The Park as come a long way from that time. The development of the park has greatly improved and protected the area. The park is very popular, so plan on visiting when the weather is cold. Early spring is ideal; when the snowmelt is active and the creek is flowing.

Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park includes 286 acres of wildlife and plants. The park has a diverse riparian habitat, which is enhanced by Oak Creek flowing through it. Visitors will see ravens, jays and Gila woodpeckers. There are also migratory birds that come to the park in April and November. There are a variety of trees throughout the park. Sycamore, cottonwood and alders can be seen growing naturally.

The goal of Red Rock State Park is to educate others on ecology and preservation. The visitor center should be your first stop. The nature center, as they call it, has a multitude of interesting activities inside. There are presentations, exhibits, videos and guided tours on the wildlife, floral and fauna in the area. Visitors will have the opportunity to take bird walks and hikes. There are solar-powered toilets with fans located along the trails. A guided hike is offered every Saturday at 8:00 am, during the months of May to September and at 9:00 am, during the months of October to April. This hike ends up at a terrific overlook called Eagle’s Nest.

Red Rock State Park is open everyday from 8:00 to 6:00 pm, during the summer and 8:00 to 5:00 pm, during the winter. The visitor center is open everyday from 9:00 to 5:00 pm. The admission cost is $5.00 per vehicle (up to four persons per vehicle) and $1.00 per pedestrian. If you would like more information, call 520-284-3214 or 520-282-6907 You can get to the park from Sedona, by taking State Highway 89 west out of town. After traveling approximately four miles, you will come to Lower Red Rock Loop Road where you will take it south to Red Rock State Park.

You can reach the park from Flagstaff by taking State Highway 89 south out of town. Continue traveling on State Highway 89 through Sedona, until you come to Lower Red Rock Loop Road. Take Lower Red Rock Loop Road into the park. You can reach Red Rock State Park from Tucson or Phoenix by taking Interstate 10 north out of tow past the town of Camp Verde. When you get to the exit for State Highway 179, take it and continue heading north up to Sedona. Once you arrive in Sedona, take State Highway 89 west through town to Lower Red Rock Loop Road. When you get to Lower Red Rock Loop Road take it and follow it to the park.

Raven Site Ruin

The Raven Site Ruin consists of two pueblos with 800 rooms and two kivas. The site is 5-acres, which overlooks the Little Colorado River. You can participate in guided hiking tours of the petroglyphs and other sites. The tour also includes visits to the laboratory, museum, library and excavation areas.

The Site is open daily 9:30 to 5:00 pm. from May 1 to mid-October. The guided tours of Raven Site are held daily at 11:00, 2:00 and 4:00 pm. The site tour is $3.50. However, those over 62 or ages 12 to 17 the cost is $2.50. The self-guided tour is $4.00. However, those over 62 or ages 12 to17 the cost is $3.00. There is a one-day excavation that includes lunch. The cost is $59.00 or for those ages 9 to17 the cost is $37.00. The site requires reservations for guided tours and excavation programs. Please contact White Mountain Archaeological Center, HC 30, Box 30, St. John’s, AZ 85936 or call 520-333-5857. This site has so much for everyone to see and learn.

Raven Site Indian Ruins is located about 13 miles north of Springerville. Head out of Springerville north on Interstate 60. Then take Interstate 180/191 north again near Richville. Turn right onto Tucson Electric Power Plant Road. Head half a mile down the gravel road to the research center.

Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park

The courthouse has a rich history beginning in 1881, when the population reached 10,000 and Cochise County was established. Then in 1882, the Victorian styled Cochise County Courthouse was built in Tombstone. The courthouse represented law and order, during a time when lawlessness was rampant. The courthouse building included the offices of sheriff, recorder, treasurer, and board of supervisors. The building also held a jail in back, under the courtroom. The cost of construction was nearly $45,000.
Many popular individuals held office at the courthouse. One very famous person was John Slaughter.

Slaughter was the sheriff for Cochise County. He was known for manner in which he informed outlaws to leave the area. He was a no nonsense kind of guy. Then in 1929, Tombstone lost the county seat to the town of Bisbee in an election. From that time on, the building went through changes. During the 1940’s, the building was a hotel. The courthouse also stood empty. Then in 1955, the Tombstone Restoration Commission took possession of it. The commission has turned it into a historical museum and as operated it as a state park since 1959. Visitors should plan on at least an hour to take in the information at this memorable building. There are two floors of displays and exhibits.

The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park holds displays describing the history of Tombstone and Cochise County. The park features an exhibit recalling the famous fight in the O.K. Corral. There are rooms reflecting cattlemen, lawyers and life in the early times in Tombstone. Visitors will see antiques and artifacts used by former residents of Tombstone. Outside the courthouse there are the gallows where outlaws were hung. The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park is open everyday from 8:00 to 5:00 pm and is closed on Christmas. The cost of admission is $2.50 and children 7-13 are $1.00. The park also has a gift shop that includes terrific books on Arizona history and local history.

The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park is located at the corner of Toughnut Street and Third Street in Tombstone. It’s exact address is 219 East Toughnut Street. You can get to the park from U.S. 80 (from Benson or Bisbee) by turning south on Third Street and traveling down to the corner of Toughnut Street. If you would like to learn more about the park, call 520-457-3311. This is a remarkable building. The architecture alone is amazing. This is a good first stop on your Tombstone visit. The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park gives you a great overview of the town.

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