Cities

Jerome

This former mountain mining community earned the nickname “The Wickedest Town in the West” during its heyday, when rich copper ore deposits attracted miners, merchants, madams and more to Yavapai County.

More than a century later, Jerome's rough-and-tumble spirit has been tempered but not completely tamed, which helped the town narrowly escape a fate that befell many others that fell to ruin after their linchpin mines closed. Today, Jerome is known for being a hillside destination for visitors eager to discover more about the Verde Valley’s mines, wines, fine arts and spectral spirits. This town serves up its history with a side of humor: There’s still a Bordello on Main Street, for example, but the modern incarnation is meant to sate guests’ appetites for burgers only. Read on to discover more about what to enjoy on your visit to Jerome.

Vintage shops

Downtown Jerome’s streets and stairways wend past several tasting rooms and bottle shops that showcase the viticulture of the Verde Valley. At least a half-dozen offer curated lists of wines or ciders, available by the glass, flight or bottle. Jerome’s restaurants tend to include at least one local brand on their menus, too.

Exceptional exhibitionists

It’s not exaggerating to say that artists and craftspeople saved Jerome. The town’s former high school, for example, houses the Jerome Art Center, where more than 30 artists rent studio space. Throughout town, galleries are tucked in former houses and storefronts, showcasing furniture, photography, fine art, jewelry and more.

A haunting good time

The catastrophic fires and violent deaths from the town’s early days have led to Jerome’s “ghost town” status. Over the years, there have been several accounts of ghosts and apparitions that roam the town’s historic buildings and neighborhoods. Evening ghost tours and spirit walks introduce visitors to the local hotels, houses, hospital and high school that former residents are said to haunt.

Dig deep into the history of Jerome

The copper mines may have closed, but they’re by no means forgotten. Just above the former Little Daisy mine, what once served as the Douglas family mansion has been converted into the museum and visitors center for Jerome State Historic Park, which contains displays, demonstrations and tours related to the town’s mining boom. And throughout Jerome, placards share the history of both ruins and remaining buildings, inspiring renewed appreciation for the renaissance the town’s residents have been able to craft themselves. Turns out, all that rough tumbling revealed the gem that had been lying underneath all this time, ready to shine once again.

Visit City Website

More to Discover Near Jerome

Jerome State Historic Park

Before touring this historic mining town, get the backstory at Jerome State Historic Park.

Cities

Sedona

Seeing the iconic red rocks of Sedona will simply take your breath away. You will be awestruck by the majestic crimson rock formations and...

Cities

Flagstaff

Enjoy all four seasons in Northern Arizona’s largest city — located along historic Route 66 just 80 miles from the Grand Canyon.

Featured Entries Gallery

Search Filters

Search Results

Tours

Grand Canyon Adventures

Grand Canyon Adventures is your guide for all things Arizona! From half-day Grand Canyon tours, to fully custom private trips, we have you...

Wineries

Granite Creek Vineyards

We're a family-owned and operated vineyard and winery in northern Arizona's Chino Valley, less than half an hour north from Prescott, and a...

Tours

Guidance Air

Experience and enjoy Sedona from the air! Guidance Air is Sedona's premier helicopter tour operator, offering an experience of the red...

Wineries

Heart Wood Cellars

Heart Wood Cellars is a boutique winery in the Verde Valley of northern Arizona. Our wines reflect our love for bold, complex elegant red...

Spas & Luxury

Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock

Escape to the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. Set amidst the spectacular beauty of the magnificent red rock formations surrounding...

Nature & Wildlife

International Raptor & Falconry Center

At the International Raptor & Falconry Center, our mission is to make the world a better place for raptors through education and...

Wineries

Javelina Leap Vineyard

Overlooking lush Oak Creek, Javelina Leap Vineyards produces wines made from 100% Arizona grapes. At our on-site tasting room and private...

Visitor Centers

Jerome State Park - Visitor Center

Discover the history of Jerome, AZ at Jerome State Historic Park. This museum was once the stately mansion of mining mogul James Douglas....

Tours

Kindred Tours

Celebrate the journey in small groups! Since 1984 Kindred Tours has been exploring the world, with a particular focus on the American...

The Old West

M Diamond Ranch

Enjoy a private ranch getaway at our guest house on a 100-year old working cattle ranch near Sedona. Room for 2-10 guests reserved...

Wineries

Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria

Merkin Vineyards Osteria reflects a simple grassroots approach to Italian country food inspired by regional ingredients. Our menu includes...

Discover

Cities & Regions

From the abundance of Saguaro cactuses and unique wildlife in the Sonoran Desert to the high country and forests of the White Mountains to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, Arizona’s regions are full of experiences that don’t disappoint.