JEROME, ARIZONA
A Historic and Haunted Town
If you are looking for a unique and fascinating place in Arizona, you might want to visit Jerome. Located in Arizona’s Black Hills, at a height of more than 5,000 feet, this community is perched on a hillside. It is renowned for its rich mining history, strong artistic scene, and eerie atmosphere.
WHAT IS JEROME?
Located on Cleopatra Hill with a view of the Verde Valley, Jerome was established in the late 19th century. It bears the name Eugene Jerome in honor of the New York financier who provided funding for the local mining operations. As a boomtown for copper mining, the community expanded quickly, drawing in thousands of workers, entrepreneurs, and families.
Jerome had a population of roughly 15,000 people in the 1920s and was dubbed “the wickedest town in the west” because of its renowned saloons, gambling halls, and brothels. However, fires, landslides, and labor problems negatively impacted the community. In addition, in 1917, the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) launched multiple strikes and protests in Jerome, which resulted in the deportation of dozens of union members.
After WWII, the mining business collapsed, and the last mine closed in 1953. By the 1960s, the town’s population had dropped to less than 100 people, and Jerome had officially become a ghost town. A few residents, however, stayed and sought to preserve the town’s historic buildings and culture. Jerome was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1967.
Jerome attracted a new batch of people in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly artists, musicians, writers, and hippies. These newcomers erected galleries, studios, shops, eateries and bed-and-breakfast businesses. With festivals, concerts, and events, they also revitalized the town’s cultural and social life. Jerome now has a population of roughly 450 people and is a widely recognized tourist attraction.
WHERE IS JEROME?
Jerome is situated along State Route 89A between Sedona to the east and Prescott to the west, approximately 100 miles north of Phoenix and 45 miles southwest of Flagstaff. From Phoenix, take Interstate 17 north to exit 287 (Cottonwood/Camp Verde), then State Route 260 west to Cottonwood, then State Route 89A north to Jerome.
The town is located on a steep hillside, and the roads leading to it are narrow, curvy, and steep. You should drive carefully and slowly, and follow the speed limit signs. It is also wise to check the weather and road conditions before you go, as there may be snow, ice, thunderstorms, or flash floods depending on the season.
Parking in Jerome can be limited and difficult, especially on weekends and holidays. You should park only in designated areas, and pay attention to the signs and meters.
You can find more information about Jerome on it’s official site HERE. Alternatively, you can also read up on Jerome the Visit Arizona site.
WHAT IS THERE TO DO THERE?
Jerome offers a wide variety of activities and sights. Here are some examples:
- Discover Jerome’s history and impact at the Jerome State Historic Park, which features the Douglas Mansion, a former mining tycoon’s residence that now contains a museum with exhibits and artifacts from the town’s mining history.
- Pay a visit to the Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum, which houses a collection of mining equipment, tools, photographs, and artifacts that illustrate the narrative of Jerome’s mining past.
- Visit Ghost Town Tours to learn more about Jerome’s spooky side; they lead narrated walking tours of the city’s haunted places and ghost sightings.
- Browse the various galleries and shops that line the streets of Jerome for one-of-a-kind art and crafts. Local artists have created paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, textiles, and other works to behold.
- Enjoy the scenic views of the Verde Valley and the surrounding mountains from various vantage points in Jerome. You can also drive along the historic State Route 89A that winds through the town and offers spectacular vistas.
- Try some local wines at Cellar 433, which offers wine tastings and tours of their vineyards and winery. Craft brews can also be sampled at the Spirit Room, which also provides live music and entertainment. There are also popular restaurants, such as the Haunted Hamburger, where you’ll find upside down shelves inside near the bar. You might also come across the Prickly Pear Float at local cafes, which is a delightful local favorite.
If all of this seems attractive to you and Jerome looks like a place that you’d like to visit, watch the video below, made by Living In Arizona, for additional information about this quaint, spooky, and historic town.
A FEW MORE THINGS
- Jerome is considered the largest ghost town in the USA. You can stay at the Jerome Grand Hotel, which is said to be the most haunted hotel in Arizona.
- Due to the abundance of nearby wineries and tasting rooms, Jerome is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Visit Cellar 433, Passion Cellars, or Caduceus Cellars to taste some of Arizona’s finest wines.
If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind and truly memorable experience in Arizona, why not combine a visit to the historic mining town of Jerome with a guided tour of the stunning Antelope Canyon just four hours north? Book your tour today by clicking the button below!
