A Day Trip to Remember: Jerome Ghost Town Attractions

Jerome Ghost Town, once notorious as one of the wildest towns in America, has now transformed into a vibrant hub for the arts, music, and culture, all while preserving its incredible history. Perched atop Cleopatra Hill, Jerome beckons as a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway, promising a quirky little town full of surprises. From exploring historic sites and art galleries to indulging in unique dining experiences, there’s plenty to see and do in Jerome, Arizona.

Popular Jerome, Arizona Attractions

So, you’ve set your sights on a day trip to the renowned Ghost Town of Jerome, Arizona. Here’s a comprehensive list of ten must-visit attractions that should be on your itinerary, each offering a unique glimpse into the town’s fascinating past and vibrant present.

• Jerome State Historic Park: The park is home to the Douglas Mansion, built in 1916 by a wealthy mining entrepreneur. The mansion now houses a museum showcasing the history of Jerome and its mining past. 100 Douglas Rd, Jerome, AZ. Website.
• Jerome Mine Museum: A mining town with a mining past and a Mine Museum takes you into the heart of that past. Include a visit to the museum to learn about copper mining and the miners who lived, prospered, and built their lives here. Photos and exhibits take you through the town’s colorful past. 200 Main Street.
• Sliding Jail: While you’re about it, check out the Sliding Jail. A building that slid 200 feet from where it was built thanks to blasts from the mines below caused the shift. Today, the jail is being held in place by a retaining wall. You can find the jail just below the parking lot on Hull Street.
• Jerome’s Art Scene: Jerome is renowned for its lively art scene, featuring numerous galleries and studios that exhibit the work of local artists. Stroll down Main Street and visit the various galleries to view the current exhibitions.
• Haunted Hamburger: This unique restaurant is a must-visit for its delicious burgers and haunted reputation. According to legend, the building is haunted by the spirits of former residents. 410 Clark St, Jerome, AZ.
• Jerome’s Historic Buildings: The town is filled with historic buildings dating back to its mining days. Take a walk around town, admire the architecture, and learn about the history of each building.
• Jerome Winery: The town is home to several wineries, and Jerome Winery stands out as one of the most popular. Please visit for a wine tasting and grab a bottle or two of their excellent wines at 114 Jerome Ave, Jerome, AZ. Website.
• Audrey Headframe Park: This park is home to the Audrey Headframe, which was once part of a mine. Visitors can stand on a glass floor over a 1,900-foot mine shaft for a unique, slightly nerve-wracking experience.
• Gold King Mine Museum and Ghost Town: Located about 3/4 miles north of Jerome, the Gold King Mine is a tourist attraction in an 1880s mining camp called Haynes. The property has rusty old cars, mining equipment, and a few original buildings. Address 1000 Perkinsville Rd, Jerome, Arizona. Website.
• Jerome’s Ghost Tours: Several tour companies offer plenty of options, depending on group size, interests, age groups, and duration of tours. While the history tour takes you through the town’s mining past, ghost tours will rattle you with sights, sounds, and tales of the town’s haunted past. It’s an absolute must-do while you are in Jerome. Website.

Best Bars and Restaurants in Jerome

Jerome, Arizona, offers unique options for those looking to taste history with their drink. The town boasts several colorful bars and restaurants. One popular spot is The Spirit Room, the hub of Jerome’s music scene. It’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, with its colorful mural behind the bar and a Jerome Miner sculpture. The atmosphere is lively, and the drinks are flowing, making it a great place to relax and enjoy local music. 166 Main St # 155, Jerome, AZ. Website.

If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, The Clinkscale Bar + Grill is a must-visit. It’s located in a boutique hotel built in 1899 and offers a menu of American fusion cuisine with a hint of French influence. The restaurant has received high ratings on Yelp and is renowned for its indulgent desserts, such as warm beignets with vanilla bean custard and chocolate ganache. 309 Main St, Jerome, AZ. Website.

If you’re interested in the local beer scene, Wicked City Brew is the place to visit. This brewery has been located on Clark Street for six years and is named after Jerome, which was labeled “wicked” by the Arizona Republic in 1899 and “The Wickedest Town in America” by the NY Sun in 1903. It’s a great place to try local brews and soak up the atmosphere. 403 Clark St A3, Jerome, AZ.

The Asylum Restaurant in the Jerome Grand Hotel is a great choice for lunch or dinner with its stunning views. If you’re looking for more casual dining, Haunted Hamburger is a good option, and for delicious barbecue, check out English Kitchen- Bobby D’s BBQ. These are just a few of the bars and restaurants you can find in Jerome, Arizona. Whether you want a casual drink or a fine dining experience, you’ll find something to suit your taste in this historic town. Just remember to drink responsibly and enjoy all that Jerome has to offer!

Learn About the History of Jerome, Arizona

Today, Jerome stands as a testament to its rich and vibrant past. Once a rough and rowdy copper mining town, it offers a unique blend of history, art, and scenic beauty. The city was founded in the late 19th century when three prospectors staked claims on rich copper deposits. Named after Eugene Jerome, the venture’s principal backer, the initial mining operation folded in less than two years due to high operating costs. However, the town’s fortunes were about to change.

Jerome’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. The town’s fortunes changed when William A. Clark, a mining magnate, took over and brought a narrow gauge railroad, significantly reducing freighting costs. By the early 20th century, the United Verde Copper Company became the largest producer of copper in the Arizona Territory, transforming Jerome into a bustling company town with churches, an opera house, a school, and a thriving community. This transformation is a testament to the town’s ability to reinvent itself and adapt to changing times.

The town’s population peaked at nearly 15,000 in the 1920s, attracting people worldwide. However, Jerome was at the mercy of copper prices, labor unrest, and the ups and downs of the mining industry. The mines closed in 1953, and the population dwindled to just 50 residents. Despite its decline, Jerome was still remembered. The Jerome Historical Society worked to preserve the town’s buildings and history, and in 1965, the Douglas Mansion became a state park. Jerome was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976, and during the 1960s and 1970s, it became a haven for artists.

Jerome Where to Stay for An Overnight Adventure

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Jerome, Arizona, you’re in luck! The town has a selection of hotels, each with its unique charm and history. One popular choice is the Connor Hotel, built in 1898 and considered the best overnight accommodation in Jerome. This historic inn has been restored and is a favorite among visitors who want to stay in the downtown business district.

For a more upscale experience, try to check out The Clinkscale. This boutique hotel and restaurant spans the historic Clinkscale building built in 1899. The hotel has six exquisite guestrooms on the upper floors, each with unique charm.

The Jerome Grand Hotel is a good choice for a bit of luxury. This historic hotel, a National Historic Landmark since 1976, offers panoramic views of the Verde Valley. It has various accommodation options, including four Standard Rooms and five Specialty Rooms, all featuring queen beds with Serta Resort Chateau Plush mattresses.

If you want a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Best Western Cottonwood Inn, The Tavern Hotel, or the Lux Verde Hotel. These hotels provide parking, including free parking, making them convenient choices for travelers. Regardless of your choice of accommodation, you are guaranteed a memorable experience in Jerome, Arizona.

Getting To Jerome Ghost Town

If you ever find yourself in Arizona and want to experience the days of copper mining and ghost towns, visit Jerome! Just be cautious and watch your step, as you wouldn’t want to fall off the side of Cleopatra Hill. Jerome Ghost Town is situated in central Arizona at 5,000 feet. It is approximately a one-hour drive from Flagstaff and a two-hour drive from Phoenix, Arizona. The main road that runs through town is Arizona State Route 89A.

Nearby Jerome Points of Interest

The Tuzigoot National Monument

The Tuzigoot National Monument preserves a 2- to 3-story pueblo ruin perched on a limestone and sandstone ridge overlooking the Verde River floodplain. It is a massive, 110-room apartment complex built by the Southern Sinagua people, who were the original inhabitants. The pueblo is a fascinating mix of architectural styles, with some rooms built on top of others, making it a bit like a historical layer cake. Visitors can explore the ruins and imagine what life was like for the Sinagua people. Website.