Ghost City Inn review

Ghost City Inn provides centrally located accommodations with stunning views from the hip hilltop community of Jerome.

Located on the backside of the Mingus Mountain range, high atop Cleopatra Hill, is the historic mining camp of Jerome, once the fourth largest town in the Arizona territory. With a current population of just 500, it’s almost hard to believe this small hilltop was once home to over 15,000 residents. After its mining heyday and the brothels and saloons served their last patrons, Jerome faded into the past, becoming a town where only the ghosts of yesteryear roamed.

Over the past thirty years Jerome has become a vital part of the Arizona tourism scene, providing visitors a look into the past with a patina that only time can bestow. In the center of town is the Ghost City Inn, a bed and breakfast providing stunning views of the Verde Valley some 2000 feet below. The Ghost City Inn started out as a boarding home for mine management back the late 1890s and was known at the Garcia House. By the late 1970s the Garcia House had gone through several incarnations; as a restaurant, then an art gallery and briefly as an ashram (a spiritual haven/retreat). By 1994 it was converted into a bed and breakfast and has been serving guests for over twenty years, during which time Jerome has grown into a popular tourist destination, attracting people from around the world interested in getting a glimpse into the past.

The Ghost City Inn is by no way a luxurious property, however what it lacks in splendor, it makes up for in character. The uneven floors beneath the feet, to the uniquely themed rooms provide guests with comfortable accommodations that are within walking distance to all the glory that Jerome has to offer. During my stay I took full advantage of the veranda deck from my room. I would grab a cup of coffee in the morning and sit gazing out at the expansive view and watch the sun rise above the horizon. I could feel the town come alive in the morning as shopkeepers and gallery owners began opening their doors in preparation for the bustling tourists to arrive. By the way, “Ghost City” was a nickname for Jerome and where Ghost City Inn’s name is derived.

During my visit I stayed in the Northern Exposure room, themed after a northern country cabin. The focal point is a four poster, peeled pine, queen size bed which took a bit of a leap to get in to. The room is accented with outdoor and fishing memorabilia, decor that is on the masculine side. This second story room has a private entry and access to the veranda with those amazing views of the Verde Valley.

The Western Room was right next door and one day I saw a glimpse. It too had a custom-made queen size bed and showcased the original pine floors. The room has an extensive collection of western memorabilia and also has a private entry onto the second story veranda.

Breakfast each morning at the Ghost City Inn was delicious. The first morning we had a colorful assortment of fresh fruit, along with a Frittata that had Italian sausage, broccoli and Parmesan cheese.

The second morning we once again had a wonderful assortment of fresh fruit with yogurt. The main course was strawberry stuffed French Toast with a walnut caramel sauce. A bit on the sweet side, but quite decadent.

I always get a thrill out of staying at a bed and breakfast as the people I meet are typically friendly and fascinating. This trip was no exception. It’s fun to swap travel stories and compare activities that you may have shared at similar destinations. I really enjoyed meeting Ingrid, the new owner/innkeeper of the Ghost City Inn. While Ingrid has been in the U.S. for a long time, she hails from Germany, so I had fun talking with her about various European destinations. I suspect European travelers must gravitate to the Ghost City Inn. It’s sort of like staying with a family member.

Bottom line: The Ghost City Inn is a clean, comfortable, hospitable and affordable B&B in the heart of Jerome. If you visit the Grand Canyon State and are looking for a great Arizona Road Trip, don’t miss the hilltop community of Jerome. Whether you’re just passing through or end up staying a few days like I did, the art galleries, wine bars, restaurants, museums and ghostly experiences will not disappoint.

Click the following link to see more of my photos from Jerome.