The Shady Dell

A couple years ago I crossed off something on my bucket list that I thought I'd never get to do. That was visiting the Shady Dell in Bisbee, AZ.  What I didn't know when I first heard about this place, was that my grandmother would later move 20 minutes away from Bisbee. I took the opportunity to spend a little time with her, and spend a little time in heaven.  When I arrived, I felt like a dream had come true. It was everything I had imagined it would be. I had slipped back in time, and felt at home.

There are nine restored trailers that can be rented by the night (a boat and a bus too). Each trailer is decorated in the mid-century style. In my particular trailer, there was a t.v. hooked up to a hidden dvd player. They provided a couple of movies, including a film noir set that made me squeal with joy. They have their own "radio" station playing classic jazz music, and a record player with various records to choose from. In the kitchen there was an original working stove and refrigerator.  There is also a diner in the court, but sadly it wasn't opened when I was there. Outside the trailer, there was astroturf with two metal lawn chairs, which I spent the morning in my pjs listening to the birds (until my grandma told me to get back inside and take the scarf and curlers off of my head because I looked crazy). The managers were nice, and also dressed in vintage clothing. I even took home a tshirt as a souvenir.

I have not stopped thinking about the Shady Dell since I left. Someday, I'd like to go back and spend more than just a night there. If you ever find yourself in the area, or want to take a trip back in time, head on over to the Shady Dell.