A Road Trip to Jerome: The Eclectic Town atop Cleopatra Hill

Jerome, Arizona is an old mining town turned into a vibrate artistic community and popular tourist destination—it’s one of those “off-the-beaten-path” type destinations that’s full of nooks, crannies and textures that just make you want to explore.  It’s a place where photographers of all levels will find exultation.

The small town of Jerome is located in the Verde Valley of central Arizona, known for its rich mining history, stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a variety of activities that make it the perfect destination for a road trip.

Located high a top Cleopatra Hill at 5200′, Jerome provides sweeping views of Cottonwood and the red rock country of Sedona below. Founded in 1876, Jerome was once the 4th largest town in the Arizona Territory. The population once peaked at 15,000 and is now a mere 450.

In the late 1960s, Jerome was designated a National Historic District. Today, the area is a thriving tourist and artist community.  Centrally located, a stay in Jerome  makes for a great home base to explore the nearby areas of Cottonwood, Sedona and Prescott, Arizona.

One of the main reasons why Jerome makes for a great Arizona road trip is its unique history. The town was once a bustling mining community, and the remnants of this history can still be seen today. Visitors can tour the Jerome State Historic Park, which includes the Douglas Mansion, a former boarding house for mine workers. The Mansion showcases the lives of the wealthy mine owners who lived in the town during the mining boom. The park also features the Gold King Mine and Ghost Town, which offers a glimpse into the lives of the miners who lived and worked in Jerome. The mine offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the history of the mine and the impact it had on the town. The mine also has a museum that showcases the tools and equipment used by the miners, as well as photographs and artifacts from the mining era.

Another reason to visit Jerome is the town’s scenic beauty. The town is nestled in the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a drive up Cleopatra Hill for a panoramic view of the Verde Valley, or take a hike in the nearby Sedona Red Rocks for a closer look at the natural beauty of the area. The Sedona Red Rocks are a must-see attraction for nature lovers, with its vibrant red rock formations and scenic hiking trails. The surrounding area also offers several outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking and camping.

In addition to its history and scenery, Jerome also offers a variety of other activities for visitors. The town is home to several art galleries and studios, where visitors can view and purchase the works of local artists. The town also has a number of unique shops and restaurants, offering everything from souvenirs to locally-made crafts, to delicious food and drinks. Jerome is also home to the Jerome Winery, which offers tastings of locally-made wines, and visitors can take a tour of the winery and learn about the process of wine making.

Jerome is also known for its ghostly past, with several ghost tours available for visitors. The town’s mining past and its boom and bust cycles have left behind a number of abandoned buildings, which are said to be haunted by the spirits of the miners and their families. Visitors can take a guided ghost tour to learn about the history of the town and its ghostly inhabitants.

The town of Jerome also has a vibrant arts community, with several events and festivals held throughout the year. The Jerome Art Walk is held on the first Saturday of every month, where visitors can explore the town’s art galleries, studios, and shops. The Jerome Wine Festival is held in May, and the Jerome Jazz Festival is held in August, showcasing the local talent and offering a great opportunity for visitors to experience the town’s culture and arts.

Overall, Jerome, Arizona is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and fun activities. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a hike, or a chance to explore a piece of American history, Jerome is the perfect road trip destination. The town’s mining past and its boom and bust cycles have left behind a number of abandoned buildings and ghost towns, which are said to be haunted by the spirits of the miners and their families. Visitors can take a guided ghost tour to learn about the history of the town and its ghostly inhabitants. The town’s art galleries, studios and unique shops and restaurants are also a big draw for visitors, as are the winery and the town

While in Jerome, you may want to check out the many unique shops, art galleries or saloons for some great music.