Jerome Arizona Ghost Town

Picture of Jerome, Arizona

Jerome, Arizona is a ghost town alive and well. From wickedly wild to wildly artistic. Located high atop Cleopatra Hill between Sedona and Prescott, this historic copper and gold mining town founded in 1876. When gold was discovered in Jerome, miners, gamblers and bad boys of the old west flocked here. Saloons and bawdy houses were the entertainment after a hard days work. At one time, Jerome was the fourth largest town in the Arizona Territory with a rowdy population that reached over 15,000.

Watson Lake

When gold and copper deposits dwindled, Jerome AZ became a veritable ghost town with about 50 residents that stayed behind. Although Jerome is now a treasured tourist magnet, comprised of artists, writers, unique boutique shops, wine bars, quaint dining spots and amazing views across the Verde Valley. Its appearance has not changed much in the last 100 years.

Many of the old buildings from the late 1890s still stand and are occupied by proprietors while many structures are fragment relics from its very early days. Because Jerome was built on the side of a hill, gravity and erosion has caused building to slide down the 30 degree slope. Tourists can enjoy walking among the buildings of historical significance while shopping for art treasures and dining on outside patios overlooking the views.

Watson Lake

During its rough and tough days, Jerome was given the distinction of "Wickedest Town in the West". Saloons and brothels lined the streets. Jerome, Arizona produced over a billion dollars worth of gold, copper, silver and zinc during a period of over 70 years until the last mine closed in 1953.

During the 60's and 70's artists discovered the decaying ghost town community of Jerome AZ It blossomed into a mecca of artists. The old buildings, mining sites, and stately ruins provide rich materials for a variety of art forms. As people began trickling back to Jerome, an eclectic mix of artists, craftspersons, writers and musicians have made Jerome their home.

When visiting Jerome there are places with character in which to stay. The historic Jerome Grand Hotel, which is rumored to be haunted and the Ghost City Inn Bed & Breakfast are some of the accommodations Jerome has to offer. Other hotel and lodging accommodations are located in nearby Camp Verde, Cottonwood, and Sedona Arizona.