Jerome AZ - A Cliff-Side, Mining, Wine-loving, Artist, Ghost Town

Jerome, AZ is built on Cleopatra Hill above a vast deposit of copper. The mines, the workers, and those who sought its wealth formed Jerome's history. They were a brave and raucous mix. Miners, smelter workers, freighters, gamblers, bootleggers, saloon keepers, storekeepers, prostitutes and preachers, wives and children all made Jerome what it was. At one point, Jerome, AZ was called the "Wickedest Town in the West".

Americans, Mexicans, Croatians, Irish, Spaniards, Italians, and Chinese made the mining camp a cosmopolitan mix that added to its rich life and filled its streets with excitement. Prehistoric Native Americans were the first miners. The Spanish followed, seeking gold but finding copper. Anglos staked the first claims in the area in 1876, and United Verde mining operations began in l883, followed by the Little Daisy claim.

Jerome grew rapidly from a tent city to a prosperous company town as it followed the swing of the mines' fortunes. Jerome was the talk of the territory...boom town of its time... the darling of promoters and investors. The mines were nourished and exploited by financiers who brought billions of dollars of copper from its depths.

Changing times in the Territory saw pack burros, mule-drawn freight wagons, and horses replaced by steam engines, autos, and trucks. Fires ravaged the clapboard town again and again. Jerome was always rebuilt. In 1918 underground mining was phased out after uncontrollable fires erupted in the 88 miles of tunnels under the town. Open pit mining brought dynamiting. The hills rattled and buildings cracked... the surface began to shift and sections of the business district slid downward. The sliding jail moved 225 ft. and rests across the road from its original site.

Dependent on the ups and downs of copper prices, labor unrest, depressions, and wars, Jerome's mines finally closed in 1953. Will it be forever? Jerome never knows. Jerome has always been a survivor. After the mines closed and " King Copper" left town, the population went from a peak of 15,000 in the 20s to some 50 persons in the late 50s. A few hardy souls remained, reluctant to leave a lifetime of memories.

The 60s and 70s were the time of the counter culture and Jerome offered a haven for artists who renovated homes and opened abandoned shops to sell their wares. Soon newcomers and Jerome's old-timers were working together to bring Jerome back to life. The Jerome Historical Society guarded the buildings against vandalism and the elements. The Douglas Mansion became a State Park in 1965 and Jerome became a National Historic Landmark in l976.

Today, Jerome is alive with writers, artists, artisans, musicians, historians, and families. They form a peaceful, colorful, thriving community built on a rich foundation of history and lore.

What Not to Miss When You Visit Jerome, AZ

1. Jerome State Historic Park

The Douglas Mansion has been an eye-catching landmark in Jerome since 1916 when James S. Douglas built it on the hill just above his Little Daisy Mine. This former home is now a museum devoted to the history of the Jerome area and the Douglas family. The museum features photographs, artifacts, and minerals in addition to a video presentation and a 3-D model of the town with its underground mines. There are more displays outside along with a picnic area offering a beautiful panoramic view of the Verde Valley.

2. Vist the Mine Museum & Explore Jerome's Mining History

The Mine Museum gives visitors a sense of what the Jerome community was like, with exhibits dedicated to the schools and emergency services as well as the town’s seedy underbelly. The initial mining claims in Jerome were staked in 1876 and William Clark soon after constructed a railroad line and turned Jerome into a boomtown. The company was later sold to Phelps Dodge who ran the mine until operations ended in the 1950’s. It is estimated that through the years millions of tons of copper, gold, silver, and other heavy metal ore were mined in Jerome, giving the town one of its nicknames: Jerome, the Billion Dollar Copper Camp.

3. Jerome’s Sliding Jail

Just below Jerome, AZ's Visitor’s Center is Jerome’s Sliding Jail Park. It is one of this town’s many curiosities. The town jail began relocating itself during the 1930s, sliding slowly downhill and resting at various locations until it landed in its current spot, 225 feet from where it started. It is presumed that the combination of Jerome being located on the Verde Valley fault and having 88 miles of excavated tunnels beneath the one square mile of town has caused the jail to find itself resting in different parts of town over the years.

4. Go on a Ghost Tour

Guided ghost walks and tours tell stories of Jerome’s most notably haunted locations. Some tours attempt to make contact with spirits of the sordid past while telling stories of those whose mortal remains lie beneath your feet. Look for tours that are supported by the Jerome Historical Society for accurate information that is obtained through the JHS archives.

5. Jerome Wine Tasting

Pleasure your palate with some of northern Arizona’s most popular wines such as from Caduceus Cellars owned by Maynard James Keenan of the band Tool, Echo Canyon Winery, Bittercreek Winery, and Jerome Winery. Many winery tours also leave from Sedona and hit some of the best vineyards in Verde Valley including Page Springs Winery, Alcantara, and others.

6. Visit the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope Store

You must visit Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes, billed as the world’s largest kaleidoscope store. This shop is located on Main Street in the former brothel operated by the notorious town madam, Jennie Bauters. This is a “please touch the merchandise” store where the people who work there are happy to show you how to operate the different styles of kaleidoscopes and even help you take your kaleidoscope selfie!

7. Check Out the Old Cars and Bikes

Jerome is commonly humming with crowds and live music, especially at the Connor Hotel. Jerome is popular with bikers and classic car enthusiasts. The relationship between car lovers and Jerome goes back to the early history of the town, and Highway 89A through Jerome and up and over Mingus Mountain towards Prescott is one of the most famous motorcycle rides in America.

Related article: Verde Valley Arizona

 

Jerome, AZ Hotels and Vacation Rentals


THINGS TO DO IN JEROME & VERDE VALLEY

Out Of Africa Wildlife Park

Come see Tiger Splash show at 1:15 every day. Watch Bengal tigers in natural play as they hunt their caretakers. Open Daily 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Just 40 minutes from Sedona.

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.

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!


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.

The Quail Cottage - Clarkdale

Be inspired in The Quail Cottage; a colorfully renovated 1930's cottage in historic Clarkdale. Enjoy beautiful original artwork and curated antique furnishings. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mingus Mountain from the friendly front porch and a private shady back patio with BBQ, outdoor dining
Be inspired in The Quail Cottage; a colorfully renovated 1930's cottage in historic Clarkdale. Enjoy beautiful original artwork and curated antique furnishings. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mingus Mountain from the friendly front porch and a private shady back patio with BBQ, outdoor dining, game room and hammocks. EV charging is available with 220v outlet in carport. Beautiful beds with high thread count cotton or bamboo sheets. Fully equipped chefs kitchen with quality finishes throughout home.

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.

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.

  • 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

  • Wild Wild West Tour

    Our accredited tour guide will take you on a journey into the past as you unveil Jerome’s salacious wild west. Covering topics such as the rise and fall of the worlds largest copper mining town which produced over a billion dollars in precious metals, to famous figures such as Billy the Ki
    Our accredited tour guide will take you on a journey into the past as you unveil Jerome’s salacious wild west. Covering topics such as the rise and fall of the worlds largest copper mining town which produced over a billion dollars in precious metals, to famous figures such as Billy the Kid and Wyatt Earp, the infamous murder of Brothel owner Belgian Jennie and the reign of the Cuban Queen. We are recognized and supported by the Jerome Historical Society for our excellence and accurate information obtained from the JHS archives and one on one sessions with the archives manager. All tour guides are Jerome residents and active members of the JHS.

    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.

    Pandora's Box Ghost Adventure

    The ultimate ghost hunting and history experience. Step through the shadows and discover the chilling and ghastly tales of murder, lust, and revenge as we hunt for restless souls in this 2 hour adventure that is sure to leave you with goosebumps. This tour is equipped with Spirit Boxes and
    The ultimate ghost hunting and history experience. Step through the shadows and discover the chilling and ghastly tales of murder, lust, and revenge as we hunt for restless souls in this 2 hour adventure that is sure to leave you with goosebumps. This tour is equipped with Spirit Boxes and EMF Readers. We are recognized and supported by the Jerome Historical Society for excellence and accurate information obtained through the JHS archives and one on one sessions with the archives manager. All tour guides are Jerome residents and are active members with the JHS.

    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.

    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!


    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.

    Discover the Legends of Quirky and Strange Jerome Scavenger Hunt

    Adventure seekers,get ready for a non traditional IMMERSIVE scavenger/detective hunt! This is fun and challenging journey through Jerome! You will be off on a 2 hour creative adventure through the quirky streets of Jerome, being challenged as you go. You will be getting photo and video clu
    Adventure seekers,get ready for a non traditional IMMERSIVE scavenger/detective hunt! This is fun and challenging journey through Jerome! You will be off on a 2 hour creative adventure through the quirky streets of Jerome, being challenged as you go. You will be getting photo and video clues, talking to locals to solve mysteries and learning about the unusual history of Jerome as you go. The sky is the limit as far as the creativity you bring to this adventure.

    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.

    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.


    Historic Tour of Jerome

    Discover the Old West on a tour of Jerome and the Verde Valley. Enjoy fantastic mining history, charming architecture, and desert scenery on an intimate small group tour. Your guide gives you plenty of time to explore historic Clarkdale and Jerome, as well as to stop for lunch and shop on
    Discover the Old West on a tour of Jerome and the Verde Valley. Enjoy fantastic mining history, charming architecture, and desert scenery on an intimate small group tour. Your guide gives you plenty of time to explore historic Clarkdale and Jerome, as well as to stop for lunch and shop on Jerome’s quaint Main Street.

    MORE TOURS IN JEROME, AZ