Imagine spending the weekend in a vintage trailer complete with magazines, games, vinyl records, toiletries and a usable kitchen from the 1950s. You can do that in Bisbee, Arizona at The Shady Dell!
Arriving late in the evening, the key was left for us at the main office. Inquire with the owners because there may be a small fee for late arrival. We had chosen a trailer with two single beds and a bathroom with shower. Not all trailers have full bathrooms but there are full size showers and bathroom facilities in the center of the community for easy access to everyone. Important for Arizona, each “residence” is equipped with air conditioning and a refrigerator. The trailer also had an authentic black and white television hooked up to a (not so authentic – LOL) DVD player so we could watch old movies and shows while we played board games in the front room.
The grounds make you feel as if you are back in time. Fifties music is piped in through speakers creating a fun carefree atmosphere. Artificial grass, plastic flamingos and old metal chairs adorned the front yards and throughout the property.
Venturing in to town takes about 5 minutes along AZ-80. Shopping on the main road offers antiques, clothing boutiques, southwestern jewelry and hand-made trinkets. The town offers many dining options including one that was particularly delicious. Possibly one of the best meals we have ever had was at Cafe Roka. Chef Rod Kass has built an amazing restaurant in an historic building on Main Street with unique four course dishes in an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. A local band provides live jazz on weekends.
A fun site to visit is the Queen Mine, offering tours 1,500 feet into the mine that was operational for over 100 years up until its closure in 1975. You will be guided for an hour through the mine learning about the history, the trials and tribulations of those who worked there, and the various techniques of mining. Adorned with a hard hat and raincoat, expect low doorways, slick floors, cold drafts and dimly lit tunnels — but it is absolutely fascinating! At the time we visited, reservations were required. Also check out the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum which is affiliated with the Smithsonian. It’s open daily 10 am to 4 pm.
After taking the tour, we moseyed on over to the Bisbee Breakfast Club. It offers your main breakfast and lunch selections with a few special dishes. A great way to fill your stomachs for the ride home. I picked up a souvenir!
