Jerome, Arizona Ghost Town

Nestled high on Cleopatra Hill in the Black Hills of Yavapai County, the Jerome Arizona Ghost Town is a fascinating and eerie destination that has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide.

Once a booming copper mining town in the early 20th century, Jerome has transformed into a thriving, eclectic, and haunted tourist attraction. With its rich history, unique attractions, and stunning landscapes, visiting Jerome will be an unforgettable experience.

A Brief History of Jerome

Established in 1876, Jerome was initially a small mining camp that grew into a prosperous copper mining town with over 15,000 inhabitants during the 1920s. The town attracted miners, bootleggers, gamblers, and other colorful characters worldwide, earning it the nickname “The Wickedest Town in the West.”

However, Jerome’s fortunes took a turn for the worse when the Great Depression hit, and the copper mines began to close. By the 1950s, the population had dwindled to less than 100, and Jerome was on the brink of becoming a ghost town.

But the determined residents of Jerome refused to let their beloved town fade away. In the 1960s and 70s, artists and entrepreneurs began to move in, restoring old buildings and opening new businesses. 1967 Jerome was declared a National Historic District, breathing new life into this once-forgotten town.

Today, Jerome is a thriving community of around 500 residents, consisting of artists, musicians, historians, and small business owners who celebrate the town’s rich history and eerie charm.

Exploring the Jerome Arizona Ghost Town

Jerome State Historic Park

The Jerome State Historic Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the town’s colorful past. The park features the Douglas Mansion, built in 1916 by mining tycoon James S. Douglas as a hotel for mining officials and investors. Today, the mansion has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the history of Jerome and the Douglas family.

Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the town’s geology, mining artifacts, photographs, and a 3-D model of Jerome and its underground mines inside the museum. The park also offers stunning panoramic views of the Verde Valley, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

The Mine Museum and Jerome’s Mining History

A visit to the Mine Museum is essential to understand Jerome’s mining past better. The museum, operated by the Jerome Historical Society, features a fascinating collection of mining equipment, photographs, and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the town’s early days.

From the initial mining claims in 1876 to the eventual closure of the mines in the 1950s, the Mine Museum tells the story of Jerome’s rise and fall as a copper mining powerhouse.

Be sure to check out the hand-forged miners’ candlesticks, carbide lamps, cages, and drills on display, as well as the stories of the diverse and vibrant community that once called Jerome home.

Jerome’s Sliding Jail

One of Jerome’s most intriguing attractions is its “Sliding Jail,” which moved 225 feet downhill due to underground blasting and landslides caused by mining operations in the 1930s. The jail’s slow and gradual journey down the hill has left it resting in a new location, making it a unique and curious sight for visitors to explore.

Jerome Ghost Town Tours

No trip to the Jerome Arizona Ghost Town would be complete without embarking on one of the many ghost tours available. These guided tours delve into the town’s haunted history, visiting famous locations such as the Connor Hotel, the Surgeon’s House, and the Jerome Grand Hotel.

With a mix of spooky stories, paranormal activity, and fascinating history, a ghost tour is a thrilling way to experience the eerie side of Jerome.

Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes: The World’s Largest Kaleidoscope Store

For a truly unique shopping experience, head to Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes, the largest kaleidoscope store in the world. This mesmerizing shop features hundreds of hand-crafted kaleidoscopes created by talented artists from around the globe.

The store even encourages visitors to touch and play with the kaleidoscopes, making it a fun and interactive experience for all ages.

Chief Surgeon House and Bartlett Hotel

The Chief Surgeon House, built in 1916, is now a charming bed and breakfast surrounded by beautiful gardens and ponds. This historic building offers stunning views of the Verde Valley and the red rock cliffs of Sedona, making it a popular place to stay for visitors to Jerome.

The Bartlett Hotel is another historic building worth exploring. Originally built in 1901 as Jerome’s premier luxury hotel, the building became unstable in the 1940s and was eventually abandoned.

Today, only the skeletal remains of the once-grand hotel still stand, providing a haunting backdrop for photographs and a glimpse into Jerome’s past.

Wine Tasting in Jerome

Jerome may be famous for its ghostly residents and mining history, but it’s also home to several wineries and tasting rooms that showcase the region’s thriving wine industry. The Verde Valley wine region offers a diverse selection of wines, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.

Some popular wineries in Jerome include Passion Cellars, Caduceus Cellars and Merkin Vineyards, and Cabal Cellars.

Jerome Artists Cooperative

The Jerome Artists Cooperative is a local art gallery that showcases works by artists from the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of art styles, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, and more. This co-op gallery plays a vital role in fostering Jerome’s artistic community and supporting local artists.

Asylum Restaurant

For a delicious meal with a side of haunted history, dine at the Asylum Restaurant located within the Jerome Grand Hotel. This award-winning restaurant offers a unique dining experience, complete with stunning views of the Verde Valley and an atmosphere that evokes the town’s ghostly past.

Audrey Headframe Park

The Audrey Headframe Park offers a fascinating look into Jerome’s mining history. Visitors can stand on a glass floor above a 1,900-foot mine shaft and peer down into the depths where miners once toiled.

The park also features a variety of mining equipment, including ore cars, timber cars, and drills, providing an educational and interactive experience for all ages.

Where to Stay in Jerome Arizona

While it’s possible to visit Jerome as a day trip from nearby Sedona or Phoenix, the town offers several unique accommodations for those wishing to spend the night.

The historic Jerome Grand Hotel, the Ghost City Inn, the Surgeon’s House, and the Connor Hotel on Main Street all provide a comfortable and memorable stay amidst Jerome’s haunted history.

How to Get to Jerome, Arizona Ghost Town

Jerome is conveniently located between Prescott and Sedona, making it an ideal stop for those traveling through central Arizona. The town is approximately a 40-minute drive from Sedona and a two-hour drive from Phoenix, making it an accessible destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Be prepared for narrow streets and limited parking, as the town’s historic charm comes with some logistical challenges.

Final Thoughts on Jerome Arizona Ghost Town

With its captivating history, haunted allure, and stunning landscapes, the Jerome Arizona Ghost Town is an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

From its fascinating mining past to its thriving artistic community, Jerome offers a unique and immersive experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a history buff, paranormal enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique road trip stop, Jerome is a must-visit destination in the heart of Arizona.