Jerome Historic District
A historic copper mining town clinging to a mountainside, known for its ghost stories, vibrant art scene, and stunning Verde Valley views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Jerome Historic District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic copper mining town clinging to a mountainside, known for its ghost stories, vibrant art scene, and stunning Verde Valley views.
"Jerome offers a unique blend of history, art, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit Arizona gem."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Jerome is steep! You'll be doing a lot of walking up and down hills. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking is limited. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit from further spots. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nellie Bly Kaleidoscope Shop
Main Street
Step into a world of wonder with mesmerizing kaleidoscopes. A truly unique and enchanting experience for all ages.

Audrey Headframe Park
Near the historic mine
Peer down a historic mine shaft and imagine Jerome's booming mining past. A glimpse into the town's rugged origins.

The Skullatorium
Main Street
Explore a fascinating collection of over 1,500 skulls and oddities. A quirky and memorable stop for the curious.

Jerome State Historic Park
Douglas Mansion
Discover the history of this former mining boomtown and explore the preserved Douglas Mansion. Offers stunning valley views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills: Jerome's Unique Terrain
Ghostly Tales & Artistic Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Jerome is steep! You'll be doing a lot of walking up and down hills.
:athletic_shoe:🚗 Parking Patience
Parking is limited. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit from further spots.
:car:👻 Embrace the Ghost Stories
Many tours focus on Jerome's haunted past. It's a fun way to learn local lore!
:ghost:🎨 Explore the Art Galleries
Jerome is a hub for artists. Wander through galleries showcasing local talent.
:art:Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Jerome is steep! You'll be doing a lot of walking up and down hills.
:athletic_shoe:🚗 Parking Patience
Parking is limited. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit from further spots.
:car:👻 Embrace the Ghost Stories
Many tours focus on Jerome's haunted past. It's a fun way to learn local lore!
:ghost:🎨 Explore the Art Galleries
Jerome is a hub for artists. Wander through galleries showcasing local talent.
:art:🏞️ Enjoy the Views
The panoramic views of the Verde Valley are breathtaking. Stop and soak them in!
:mount_fuji:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Jerome's unique atmosphere, stunning views, and quirky charm. The steep, historic streets and artistic shops are a major draw, though parking and the challenging terrain are frequently mentioned drawbacks. Many appreciate the town's ghost stories and rich history.
"Planning on a trip here? Plan to spend at least a whole day here! I took a quick road trip before having to fly out to Kansas and wish I had more than two hours to spend. The views are beautiful. Traffic can get backed up at times and you may have to walk quite a bit after finding parking. There is an old ghost town/mine right outside of Jerome that I highly recommend."
Stephanie Temmel
"Not a huge street, but certainly work walking, and really nice views of the valley below."
Kolby Granville
"+JMJ Sharing Update Monday 7 November 2022. Lived in Jerome October 2013 to August 2014. Very welcoming community. A community filled with just a few locals who were raised in this historic town. Jerome is host to many artists and other creators of beauty: art, music, ceramics, clothing and jewelry and so much more. There are quite a number of restaurants. Haunted Hamburger is very, very popular. Though rarely ever mentioned, the only Catholic Church, Holy Family, in its current location since August 1900, is still open for visits. And, priests from a parish in Cottonwood, offer Holy Mass on the 3rd Saturday of the month at 8:30 am. It is a very small community that welcomes visitors. Another very significant establishment there is the Jerome Humane Society. They are very active in the care of family pets. And, hosts fund raisers to maintain all financial aspects of their clinic. Jerome, nestled on the side of Mingus Mountain (I think) offers a spectacular view of the Verde Valley. Lastly, there is a cemetery worth visiting. Many graves have been decimated by time, but there are some new graves and old headstones. Jerome, well worth a day trip. Blessings!"
MissJean FeralCatsRMyLife
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jerome is accessible by car, typically via Highway 89A. The drive itself is scenic, winding up Mingus Mountain. From Sedona, it's about a 30-minute drive. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so consider arriving early.
Due to its steep, hilly terrain and uneven sidewalks, Jerome is not very stroller-friendly. It's best to use a baby carrier if you're visiting with very young children.
The best way to explore Jerome is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be navigating steep streets and stairs. Allow at least half a day to wander through the shops and soak in the atmosphere.
Public transportation directly to Jerome is limited. Most visitors arrive by car. If coming from nearby towns like Cottonwood or Sedona, ride-sharing services might be an option, but availability can vary.
The roads leading to Jerome, particularly Highway 89A, are winding and can be steep. Drive cautiously, especially if you're not accustomed to mountain roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Jerome Historic District itself is a town, so there's no general admission ticket required to wander its streets and browse shops. However, specific attractions within Jerome, like museums or tours, may have their own admission fees.
Jerome is a living town, so its streets are always accessible. However, individual shops, galleries, and restaurants have their own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check the specific hours for any place you plan to visit, especially on weekdays or holidays.
While Jerome is known as a 'ghost town,' the main historic district is a functioning town. Specific attractions like the Jerome State Historic Park or ghost tours will have their own fees. The general town area is free to explore.
Yes, booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular ghost tours or historical experiences, particularly during peak seasons or weekends. This ensures you secure a spot.
Most shops and restaurants in Jerome accept credit cards. However, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or if you encounter a vendor that prefers it.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Nellie Bly Kaleidoscope Shop for a unique visual experience, the Jerome State Historic Park for history and views, and consider a ghost tour to delve into the town's spooky past. The Skullatorium offers a quirky oddities collection.
Jerome has a reputation as one of Arizona's most haunted towns, with many stories of paranormal activity. Ghost tours are popular for those interested in its eerie history.
Jerome is filled with unique shops, including art galleries, antique stores, souvenir shops, and specialty boutiques selling everything from jewelry to local crafts.
Absolutely! The Jerome State Historic Park, featuring the Douglas Mansion, is a key historical site. You can also explore remnants of its mining past, like the Audrey Headframe Park, and learn about its red-light district history in places like Husband's Alley.
Capture the panoramic views of the Verde Valley from various vantage points. Also, focus on the unique architecture, colorful shops, and historic details that give Jerome its character. The winding streets offer great perspectives.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Jerome offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to popular restaurants. Haunted Hamburger is a well-known spot, though some find it touristy. Other options include BBQ joints and local eateries.
While some spots can be pricey, look for cafes or smaller eateries that might offer more affordable lunch specials. Packing your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy with the views can also be a budget-friendly option.
Haunted Hamburger is famous for its burgers and its location with great views. It's a very popular spot, so expect crowds and potentially a wait.
Many restaurants in Jerome are becoming more accommodating. It's best to check menus online or call ahead to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options, as choices might be limited.
Jerome has a few establishments that lean towards a more local, dive-bar feel. Exploring the side streets might reveal some hidden gems that offer a more authentic, less tourist-focused experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the panoramic views of the Verde Valley from overlooks along the main street. The historic architecture, colorful shop fronts, and winding, steep streets offer endless photographic opportunities. Don't forget the unique interiors like the Nellie Bly Kaleidoscope Shop.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the landscape and town. Midday can be harsh, but it's great for capturing the vibrant colors of the shops.
Yes, photograph the Audrey Headframe Park for a glimpse into the mining era, explore the historic Douglas Mansion at the State Park, and capture the remnants of the old red-light district like Husband's Alley.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and street photography. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or capturing the town at dusk.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private businesses, especially if you're not a paying customer. Some shops, like the kaleidoscope shop, are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that some of the more 'spooky' elements or historical narratives might be intense for very young children. It's a good idea to gauge your child's sensitivity to ghost stories and historical context. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as dining options might require a bit of a trek.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for smaller, local eateries or cafes that might offer more affordable options than the well-known tourist spots. While ghost tours and museum entries have fees, simply experiencing the atmosphere and unique character of the town is a rewarding and cost-effective experience.
💑 Couples
Consider a ghost tour for a bit of shared adventure and intrigue, or enjoy a meal with a view at one of Jerome's restaurants. The town's intimate atmosphere and artistic flair make it an ideal destination for a romantic day trip or a cozy getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Jerome's Spooky Past: Ghost Stories and Hauntings
These tours often take you through historic buildings and alleyways, sharing tales of hauntings and paranormal experiences. While some visitors report feeling a distinct eerie presence, others find the stories more folklore than fact. Regardless, the atmosphere of Jerome, especially after dark, lends itself well to its ghostly reputation.
Even if you don't encounter a ghost, the historical narratives shared on these tours offer a fascinating glimpse into Jerome's past. It's a unique way to experience the town's character and understand why it continues to captivate those interested in the supernatural.
The Artistic Heart of Jerome
Many of these galleries are housed in historic buildings, adding to the charm of the browsing experience. You can find everything from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to unique paintings and sculptures. It's a fantastic place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir or simply enjoy the creativity on display.
Don't miss spots like the Nellie Bly Kaleidoscope Shop, which offers a truly magical and artistic experience. The sheer variety of art available makes Jerome a delightful destination for art lovers and collectors alike.
Navigating Jerome's Steep Terrain
Parking is also a challenge due to the terrain and popularity. Street parking is limited and often on inclines. Many visitors find it best to park in designated lots and be prepared for a walk to reach the main shopping and dining areas. This can add to the overall walking distance, so factor that into your planning.
For those with mobility issues, it's important to be aware that Jerome is not easily navigable with strollers or wheelchairs. While some shops may be accessible from the street level, moving between different parts of town can be difficult. Planning your visit with this in mind will help manage expectations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit