Jerome AZ: Explore it's Mining History and Artistic Vibes

Jerome, AZ is a place like no other. Clinging to the steep slopes of Cleopatra Hill, Jerome is a town with a past as colorful as its present. Once a booming copper mining camp and a hotbed of wild frontier life, Jerome, AZ has transformed into a thriving community of artists, historians, and adventurers. This mountaintop town tells a story of survival, reinvention, and enduring character.

By 1953, the mines closed, copper was no longer king, and Jerome seemed on the edge of becoming a ghost town. The population dropped to just a few dozen.

While many mining towns disappeared with their industries, Jerome refused to die. In the 1960s and ‘70s, artists, musicians, and craftspeople discovered the beauty and creative potential of this weathered town. They renovated crumbling buildings, opened galleries, and built a vibrant community out of the bones of the old mining days. With the help of the Jerome Historical Society, which preserved buildings and historical sites, Jerome staged an unlikely comeback.

Today, Jerome is a designated National Historic Landmark and a living piece of Arizona history. Its past is written in the bricks, timbers, and rusting mining equipment that dot the landscape. But it’s not just about the past—Jerome is alive with energy and artistic expression.


What Not to Miss When You Visit Jerome, AZ

Jerome State Historic Park & Douglas Mansion

Step inside the historic Douglas Mansion, now a museum, to learn about Jerome’s mining era through fascinating exhibits, old photographs, and a 3D model of the town as it once was.

The Sliding Jail

A quirky symbol of Jerome’s unstable ground, this old jail moved over 200 feet from its original location due to decades of earth movement. Jerome Grand Hotel?Once a hospital, this hilltop building is now a hotel with a haunted reputation. Ghost stories and spectacular views make it a must-visit spot.

Art Galleries & Studios

Jerome is filled with locally owned shops and galleries. Whether you’re into fine art, handmade jewelry, or kaleidoscopes, the town is a haven for artists and collectors alike.

Wine Tasting Rooms

Taste Arizona wine at one of the local tasting rooms, many of which offer great views and even better stories. Ghost Tours?Explore Jerome’s spookier side with a guided night tour through its haunted history.


Tips for Visiting

  • Wear sturdy shoes. Jerome’s steep streets and uneven sidewalks call for comfortable walking gear.
  • Arrive early on weekends. Parking is limited, especially during festivals or tourist season.
  • Check hours in advance. Some shops and museums close early in the afternoon.
  • Stay a while. Jerome has several charming inns and B&Bs for those who want to take in the sunset and night sky from high above the valley.

How to Get to Jerome, AZ

  • From Phoenix/Scottsdale: Take I-17 North to Exit 287 (Cottonwood). Follow AZ-260 to AZ-89A and climb the winding mountain road into Jerome. It’s about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive.
  • From Sedona: Take scenic AZ-89A west through Cottonwood. The 40-minute drive offers gorgeous red rock views and a dramatic ascent into Jerome.
  • From Flagstaff: Drive south on I-17, exit at 287, and follow the same path as from Phoenix. Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour journey depending on traffic.

Related article: Verde Valley Arizona

 

Jerome, AZ Hotels and Vacation Rentals


THINGS TO DO IN JEROME & VERDE VALLEY

Zane Grey RV Park (55+ park) - Verde Valley

A Beautiful Northern Arizona RV Park and Cabin Rental resort near Sedona and the Red Rock attractions. Comfortable RV camping sites on West Clear Creek in Camp Verde, Arizona. The location is unique, with a creek-side path and lots of shade. Our friendly staff will make your stay comfortab
A Beautiful Northern Arizona RV Park and Cabin Rental resort near Sedona and the Red Rock attractions. Comfortable RV camping sites on West Clear Creek in Camp Verde, Arizona. The location is unique, with a creek-side path and lots of shade. Our friendly staff will make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Zane Grey RV Village is open year round to meet your Arizona vacation needs in any season.Zane Grey RV Village is really quite beautiful!A premiere RV park in the Red Rock region of Arizona.

Taawaki Inn Clarkdale

Discover the unparalleled experience awaiting you at Taawaki Inn in Clarkdale, Arizona. This unique hotel blends modern comfort with the rich traditions of the Hopi people.

As you enter, be greeted by soothing Hopi music and breathtaking artwork from local artists. Engage in capt

Discover the unparalleled experience awaiting you at Taawaki Inn in Clarkdale, Arizona. This unique hotel blends modern comfort with the rich traditions of the Hopi people.

As you enter, be greeted by soothing Hopi music and breathtaking artwork from local artists. Engage in captivating activities such as Hopi dance performances and artist talks, immersing yourself in the culture.

Conveniently located near Tuzigoot National Monument and attractions like Verde Canyon Railroad, Jerome, Cotton Wood, and Sedona, Taawaki Inn offers amenities including a café, fitness center, art gallery, and conference room. Don't miss the chance to create lasting memories in this beautiful, culturally rich setting. Book your stay at Taawaki Inn today!


The Blazin’ M Ranch - A Western Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and A Show

Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner, and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with

Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner, and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with foil-wrapped potato, cowboy beans, our prickly pear coleslaw, flying biscuits and a delicious homemade dessert.

After dinner the Blazin’ M Cowboys entertain ya’ with their award-winning musical talents mixed with cowboy poetry and humor with a 1 hour show from 7:30pm - 8:30pm!


Arizona Private Tours

Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and
Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and up to 6 guests on a completely customizable tour of Northern Arizona. For majestic private Grand Canyon tours to Verde Valley Wine tours & ghost towns in the Sedona area, we cover it all. Let us create the custom tour of your dreams and know that we want to make this a day that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Enjoy Panoramic Views at The Prescott Sunset Sanctuary - Prescott, AZ

Your home-away-from-home retreat! Known as the 'Prescott Sunset Sanctuary,' this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a fully equipped kitchen, an open floor plan, expansive outdoor wrap-around deck for families and outdoorsy groups to relax with a BBQ lunch or a relaxing glass of wine at n
Your home-away-from-home retreat! Known as the 'Prescott Sunset Sanctuary,' this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a fully equipped kitchen, an open floor plan, expansive outdoor wrap-around deck for families and outdoorsy groups to relax with a BBQ lunch or a relaxing glass of wine at night. When you want to be close to the downtown action, yet far enough to enjoy the peace and serenity of the Prescott National Forest, this home's central location gives your family the best of both worlds. Book now.

Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure

Enjoy a 4-hour sightseeing journey by train aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad, which glides through the beautiful wilderness of the American Southwest near Sedona. Nibble light refreshments while traveling on the Verde Canyon Railroad through Arizona’s desert. Ride in a vintage train car or
Enjoy a 4-hour sightseeing journey by train aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad, which glides through the beautiful wilderness of the American Southwest near Sedona. Nibble light refreshments while traveling on the Verde Canyon Railroad through Arizona’s desert. Ride in a vintage train car or open-air viewing car to get a great perspective on the region’s natural and cultural treasures. See ancient cliff dwellings built by the Native American Sinagua people, historic mining sites and more as your train cruises along a route that follows the Verde River.

Prescott Resort and Conference Center

Resting on the "Top of the Hill" offering picturesque views of Prescott, experience Northern Arizona's premier getaway, the Prescott Resort and Conference Center. Located only 60 scenic miles from Sedona, the Prescott Resort is a great escape for a relaxed weekend, corporate retreat, o
Resting on the "Top of the Hill" offering picturesque views of Prescott, experience Northern Arizona's premier getaway, the Prescott Resort and Conference Center. Located only 60 scenic miles from Sedona, the Prescott Resort is a great escape for a relaxed weekend, corporate retreat, or conference meeting. Experience the charm of Northern Arizona at the Prescott Resort. Each of our newly renovated 160 guestrooms feature modern amenities that cater to our guests needs, i.e. High-Speed Wireless Internet and Flat-Screen Televisions. Each room was designed in the spirit of the Yavapai Tribe and offers artwork indicative to the majestic scenery of the Prescott area.

Wine Tour from Sedona to the Verde Valley Vineyards in Luxury Transportation

Our tour to four wineries will be either in a luxury tour coach or in a luxury SUV depending on the size of the group going out that day. You may choose to enjoy tastings or bottles of award-winning wines. You will receive discounts for tastings and bottles of wine, at some of the winer

Our tour to four wineries will be either in a luxury tour coach or in a luxury SUV depending on the size of the group going out that day. You may choose to enjoy tastings or bottles of award-winning wines. You will receive discounts for tastings and bottles of wine, at some of the wineries. Also, we are the only tour company that allows you to bring your own alcoholic (or nonalcoholic) beverages with you on the bus. At one of the wineries, we will have a picnic, outside next to the grapevines or inside depending on the weather. The picnic is served on linens, includes a personal charcuterie board. This includes French bread, gourmet cheeses, hard salami, olive oil with balsamic vinegar, grapes, nuts, and chocolates, for each individual person on the tour. At one of the award-winning wineries, we will be touring the production facility and barrel room. There we will discuss the wine-making process and what it takes to make a cluster of grapes into an award-winning bottle of wine.


2 Hours Water to Wine Kayak Trip from Cottonwood

The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety t

The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety tips, as well as share information on the river’s flora and fauna.

  • Combine two fun activities—kayaking and wine-tasting—on this guided tour
  • Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the Verde River—suitable for all abilities
  • Taste wines from Arizona’s premier wine-growing region: the Verde Valley
  • Receive $20 credit to spend at the winery on tastings, snacks, or gifts.

  • Bliss Wine Tours - The Most Luxurious Vineyard Tour in Sedona

    We are the most luxurious, customer-focused, wine tour company in Sedona! With extravagant limousines for larger groups and plush SUV’s for smaller groups. This tour helps you maximize on time while up in Northern Arizona, with a duration of 5+ hours. We spend an average of a little ove

    We are the most luxurious, customer-focused, wine tour company in Sedona! With extravagant limousines for larger groups and plush SUV’s for smaller groups. This tour helps you maximize on time while up in Northern Arizona, with a duration of 5+ hours. We spend an average of a little over an hour at each vineyard. Here’s one of many tips we will give you, after booking: You are able to imbibe on alcoholic beverages while traveling to and from the wineries and Sedona, with Bliss! This is a true day of pampering! This includes Excellent wine, Amazing food, Luxurious vehicles, Guides that want nothing more, than to make your heart Blissfully happy - Cheers!


    Experience E-Bike with Wine Tasting Activity

    An exceptionally unique tour in Arizona just outside of Sedona that combines the fun and informative e-bike tour through the marvelous Alcantra Vineyards overlooking the Verde River ending with wine tasting and food pairing to your pleasure! There IS water in the desert, and wine with this
    An exceptionally unique tour in Arizona just outside of Sedona that combines the fun and informative e-bike tour through the marvelous Alcantra Vineyards overlooking the Verde River ending with wine tasting and food pairing to your pleasure! There IS water in the desert, and wine with this exclusive e-bike tour.

    Private Luxury Wine Tour from Sedona to the Famous Verde Valley Vineyards

    We are the only tour company that picks up in Sedona and visits the 4 best vineyards in the Verde Valley — in luxurious limos for large groups and luxury SUV’s for smaller groups. This tour helps you maximize on time while up in Northern Arizona, with a duration of 5 hours. We spend an ave
    We are the only tour company that picks up in Sedona and visits the 4 best vineyards in the Verde Valley — in luxurious limos for large groups and luxury SUV’s for smaller groups. This tour helps you maximize on time while up in Northern Arizona, with a duration of 5 hours. We spend an average of 1 hour at each vineyard. You are also able to imbibe on alcoholic beverages while traveling to and from the wineries and Sedona. All our tours are performed in spacious luxury vehicles - Cheers!

    Wine Tour from Sedona to the Verde Valley Vineyards in Luxury Transportation

    Our tour to four wineries will be either in a luxury tour coach or in a luxury SUV depending on the size of the group going out that day. You may choose to enjoy tastings or bottles of award-winning wines. You will receive discounts for tastings and bottles of wine, at some of the wineries
    Our tour to four wineries will be either in a luxury tour coach or in a luxury SUV depending on the size of the group going out that day. You may choose to enjoy tastings or bottles of award-winning wines. You will receive discounts for tastings and bottles of wine, at some of the wineries. Also, we are the only tour company that allows you to bring your own alcoholic (or nonalcoholic) beverages with you on the bus. At one of the wineries, we will have a picnic, outside next to the grapevines or inside depending on the weather. The picnic is served on linens, includes a personal charcuterie board. This includes French bread, gourmet cheeses, hard salami, olive oil with balsamic vinegar, grapes, nuts and chocolates, for each individual person on the tour. At one of the award-winning wineries, we will be touring the production facility and barrel room. There we will discuss the wine-making process and what it takes to make a cluster of grapes into an award-winning bottle of wine.

    Sedona's #1 WINE TOUR-Vortex to Vineyards w/ABC wildlife host Rachel Reenstra

    Get to know the vineyards of Sedona with your small group (13 max) hosted by TV host Rachel Reenstra. Start with a mimosa, then choose to explore the famous vortex, or go straight to Verde Valley’s top 3 vineyards. Charcuterie is complimentary, and you can also get a personal video. Procee
    Get to know the vineyards of Sedona with your small group (13 max) hosted by TV host Rachel Reenstra. Start with a mimosa, then choose to explore the famous vortex, or go straight to Verde Valley’s top 3 vineyards. Charcuterie is complimentary, and you can also get a personal video. Proceeds from this trip go to help a wildlife foundation called “Kids Saving the Rainforest.”
  • Get a fun take on the area with a TV Host, Rachel Reenstra
  • Sip on mimosas to start the day, extra tastings are an additional expense
  • Private transport is included for the entire half day
  • Dine on a delicious cheese, meat, and fresh breadboard

  • MORE TOURS IN JEROME, AZ