Madrid produced the coal that both built the Bomb and inspired Walt Disney. Abandoned as a ghost town for many years, it was reborn as a thriving artistic community. The Oral History Tour lets you hear Madrid’s stories, as told by the people who lived them. Using smartphone technology, it plays the audio automatically, at exactly the right time and place. All dimensions of Madrid’s peculiar, multifaceted story are explored: from an eyewitness account of union-busting violence, to that time the brand-new fire engine accidentally burned down the firehouse. The Oral History Tour was distilled from seventy hours of interviews, and endures as a preserved collective memory of this unique New Mexican treasure. Of this two-hour tour, The Santa Fe Reporter wrote, ‘It’s a deep dive into the fascinating history of the little town. You’ll find interviews with locals, some of whom have lived in Madrid their whole lives, and a narrator with a soothing voice … it works exceedingly well.’

Fly over Kauai and Lihue in one expedition
Refundable in case of bad weather
Private tour for a personalized experience
Round-trip transfers from select hotels and areas are included

What To Expect

Madrid Ghost Town

The ghost town of Madrid is quite alive and filled with art and history.

Hear the hidden stories of Madrid delivered from its residents straight to your phone as you explore the town.
• Admission Ticket Free

The Mine Shaft Tavern

Established in 1899, The Mine Shaft Tavern is a roadside saloon that offers New Mexican food, draft beer & live music.
• Admission Ticket Free

Madrid Old Coal Town Museum

The Old Coal Town Museum is a tribute to mining-town life and has a vast range of mining memorabilia including old mining equipment and also old shop fittings and hospital paraphernalia.
• Admission Ticket Free

Highlight

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps
Most travelers can participate
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Include

Lifetime access to History Tour of Madrid: The Town Too High To Die tour
VoiceMap Application
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Exclude

Smartphone
Transportation
Food/Drink
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route