By: Victoria Talbot

Gretchen Bonaduce, widely known for her role in Breaking Bonaduce, has transitioned from the fast-paced world of Hollywood to the distinctive charm of Bisbee, Arizona. Leaving behind her Los Feliz estate, Gretchen has worked to reinvent herself as a hospitality entrepreneur and a significant figure in Bisbee’s growing appeal as a travel destination. Her journey blends her rock-and-roll past with a new entrepreneurial spirit, creating a unique niche in the heart of Arizona’s eclectic town. In fact, her life in Bisbee has inspired Misfits of Bisbee, a docuseries currently in development that will showcase the town’s distinctive charm, colorful characters, and Gretchen’s one-of-a-kind journey. 

From Reality TV to Bisbee Royalty

Bisbee, known for its artistic and offbeat culture, has become a fitting place for Gretchen to build her new life. Her social circle features an eclectic mix of creatives who add to the town’s vibrant spirit:

• Doug Stanhope: A renowned stand-up comedian known for his unapologetic humor, Doug has made Bisbee his home, adding a touch of celebrity to the town’s quirky atmosphere. His presence has attracted fellow artists and fans, further enriching Bisbee’s cultural landscape with his life partner by his side. 

• Sabrina Solo: A multifaceted performer, Sabrina captivates audiences with her soulful music and dynamic stage presence. Her involvement in local events, such as “Bisbee’s Got Talent,” showcases her dedication to nurturing and celebrating the town’s artistic community. ​
• Kenny Bang Bang: A magician with a flair for the dramatic, Kenny‘s mesmerizing performances have become a staple in Bisbee’s entertainment scene. His illusions and charismatic personality embody the town’s spirit of wonder and unpredictability. 
• Alex and Katy: As the passionate owners of a local art gallery, this dynamic duo curates exhibitions that highlight both emerging and established artists. Their gallery serves as a cultural hub, fostering creativity and dialogue among Bisbee’s residents and visitors alike.​
• Tamela Turtle: A multi-dimensional performance artist. Tamela describes Bisbee as the island of misfit toys—‘We are all here because we are not all there.’

Embracing the town’s character, Gretchen has played an active role in its community.

Photo Courtesy: Discover Bisbee Arizona / JPopPhoton

Building an Empire: Gretchen’s Hospitality Ventures

Gretchen has cultivated a collection of unique hospitality experiences that draw visitors from around the world. Her properties and ventures offer a high-end, rock-and-roll-meets-bohemian experience that resonates with both celebrities and adventurous travelers.

• Hacienda Del Avion – A luxury three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath estate with a private pub, a four-car garage, and a 50×50 hangar for private jets. Located adjacent to the Bisbee Airport, this property is designed for high-profile guests seeking exclusivity.
• The Greenway Manor – A historic 1908 Craftsman mansion originally home to John Greenway, the General Manager of the Queen Mine. Gretchen transformed it into a boutique lodging experience featuring rooms inspired by music legends like The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and The Rolling Stones. The manor’s rumored hauntings only add to its mystique.
• Le Cornucopia Café – Nestled on Bisbee’s Main Street, this restaurant has become a town favorite.
• Le Cornucopia Café Sierra Vista – Expanding her culinary ventures, Gretchen opened a second location in nearby Sierra Vista, bringing the same beloved menu and eclectic ambiance to a new audience.​

Beyond her businesses, Gretchen remains deeply involved in Bisbee’s signature events, including the Mariachi Festival, Bisbee Pride, the Copper City Classic Vintage Baseball Tournament, and the beloved Bisbee 1000: The Great Stair Climb & Craft Beer Festival.

Photo Courtesy: Gretchen Bonaduce

The Music Scene and New Business Ventures

Gretchen’s passion for music remains a central part of her life. She and her partner, Kevin, have been in a band together for years, with Kevin on drums and Gretchen as the lead vocalist. Kevin recently opened a recording studio in Bisbee called RoadRunner Recording, and Gretchen is promoting it to her celebrity friends in the music industry. 

A Glimpse Into Gretchen’s Entrepreneurial Mindset

What does being an entrepreneur mean to you?

Being an entrepreneur is about independence—finding multiple sources of revenue and building something that aligns with your passions and talents.​

What inspired you to go down this path?

I love making my own rules. I don’t like being told what to do, so creating my own business ventures was a natural fit.​

What are the big challenges you’ve faced?

Managing financial risk, ensuring high-quality service, and making sure my employees share my vision.​

Do you believe luck played a role in your success?

Not at all. Hard work, strategic planning, and perseverance got me where I am today.​

Have you ever considered giving up?

Never. Even in the toughest times, I believed in my vision and kept pushing forward.​

How do you define success?

Success is subjective. To me, it’s about achieving personal and professional fulfillment on my own terms.​

What’s your personal style?

A mix of Carrie Bradshaw and bohemian hipster—I love a good statement hat!​

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Be fearless. Be cautious about who you trust, handle your own finances, and never give up on your vision.​

Photo Courtesy: Gretchen Bonaduce / John Allen (Gretchen Bonaduce’s LA living room)

Looking Ahead: Expanding the Brand

Gretchen is currently working on a new docuseries that will highlight her life, business ventures, and the unique town of Bisbee. She also envisions expanding Le Cornucopia Café into a franchise, bringing a taste of Bisbee’s eclectic charm to other locations.

From reality TV star to small-town entrepreneur, Gretchen Bonaduce has demonstrated that reinvention is possible—and it can be thrilling. With her rock-and-roll spirit and an unshakable drive, she continues to redefine what success looks like on her own terms.

Book your stay at Hacienda Del Avion

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Published by Jeremy S.