28 BEST THINGS TO DO IN JEROME AZ, (2026 GUIDE)

There are many fantastic things to do in Jerome AZ, making it one of the most popular places in the Grand Canyon state.

Jerome is one of Arizona’s most unforgettable small towns: a former mining boomtown turned artsy, haunted, and wildly scenic, perched on Mingus Mountain above the Verde Valley.

It’s easy to visit as a day trip, but Jerome is better when you give it time, because the best parts are the slow parts: museums, galleries, vintage shops, viewpoints, and nighttime tours.

I’ve visited Jerome from Sedona, Phoenix, and Tucson, and every trip feels different depending on what you lean into: history, ghost stories, wine tasting, or family-friendly exploring.

If you can, plan for at least two days so you can do the Douglas Mansion, Gold King Mine, and one evening experience without rushing back down the mountain.

This post covers the best things to do in Jerome in 2026, plus parking tips, tour picks, where to stay, and quick itineraries for couples, families, girls’ trips, and solo travelers.

Jerome works year-round, but spring and fall are the sweet spots if you want the best walking weather and patio time. These are also the busiest months, especially on weekends, so expect parking to get tighter by late morning.

Winter can be a great time to visit if you want fewer crowds and crisp daytime exploring weather, but evenings feel colder fast up on the hill. Summer is warmer, but Jerome still feels like a good escape compared to Phoenix, especially if you plan for an earlier start and keep your afternoon flexible.

Best strategy: arrive early on weekends, book ghost tours or guided walks ahead if they are your must-do, and stay overnight if you want Jerome at its prettiest and quietest.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

HISTORY OF JEROME

Located at over 5000 feet, Jerome is one of the most popular getaways for families looking for fun outdoors on the weekends.

Jerome is one of the most haunted places in Arizona, and is among the ghost towns, and also exudes the charm of the Old Wild West.

Located high on Mingus Mountain, Jerome was once a bustling Wild West mining town in the Verde Valley highlands.

The town’s history goes back to the late 1800s when the first miners dug for the rich ore deposits.

But before Jerome was born, it was the site of a small mine where the local Yavapai tribe mined copper for their jewellery.

These first miners, the local Yavapai tribe, were prehistoric Native Americans. The Spanish followed in search of gold.

In 1876, three prospectors staked claims to rich copper deposits.

Located atop Cleopatra Hill between Sedona and Prescott, this historic copper and gold mining town was founded in 1876 on top of the largest copper mine in the United States.

The town was named after Eugene Jerome, a New York lawyer who financed the United Verde Copper Company.

However, Eugene Jerome never even set foot in Jerome.

When gold was discovered in the area, people from all over the world began flocking here.

From the 1880s to the early 1950s, Jerome prospered.

The United Verde Company, run by William Clark, launched mining operations in 1883. Its open-pit mine was nicknamed the “Big Hole.”

The town grew from 250 residents in 1890 to over 15,000 in the 1920s.

It attracted miners, bootleggers, saloon keepers, gamblers, and prostitutes.

To keep their employees entertained, the mining companies built over two dozen saloons, restaurants, more than 15 brothels and even an opera house, beside a post office, schools, and other administrative buildings.

It is believed that at one time there were 14 Chinese restaurants in town.

Jerome produced billions of dollars in copper, gold, zinc and silver. In its zenith, Jerome was the fourth-largest town in Arizona.

The growth also brought the infamous gamblers and bad boys to Jerome, with hundreds dying in gunfights, stabbed, strangled, beaten to death, overdosing on opium, or committing suicide.

The town was also filled with so much corruption and death that it became known as the “wickedest city in the West,”, first reported so by a New York newspaper, with the name still being its tagline.

In 1953, when gold and copper deposits vanished and the last mine shut down, only about 50 people stayed behind.

Jerome’s fortunes were reversed, and it was on the verge of becoming a ghost town.

Luckily, during the 60s and 70s, some artists discovered Jerome and began moving in.

Artists renovated homes and re-opened abandoned shops, and created the Jerome Historical Society to protect the town’s buildings.

In 1967, Jerome became a designated U.S. National Historic District.

Jerome is today one of the classic Western frontier towns in Arizona.

Jerome is also believed to be the largest ghost town in the country.

Today, the town’s population is about 500 residents, where an eclectic mix of artists, craftspersons, inn-keepers, restaurant owners, writers and musicians have made Jerome their home.

Victorian properties from the late 1890s still stand today and are occupied by their owners.

You can see many art galleries, artisan shops, boutiques, and restaurants.

HOW TO REACH JEROME, AZ

Jerome sits on Mingus Mountain above the Verde Valley, between Sedona and Prescott. The closest major airport is Phoenix (PHX), then it’s about a 2–2.5 hour drive depending on traffic and stops.

• From Sedona: take AZ-89A through Cottonwood and Clarkdale (this is one of the prettiest drives in central AZ).
• From Phoenix/Scottsdale: I-17 north to Camp Verde, then AZ-260 to Cottonwood, then AZ-89A up the mountain.
• From Prescott: AZ-89A is the scenic route (tight curves, gorgeous views).

If you’re flying in, compare airports and drive times here: Closest Airport to Phoenix (PHX vs AZA) and Closest Airport to Prescott (PRC vs PHX).

Quick drive times: Sedona to Jerome is about 35–45 minutes, Prescott is about 50–60 minutes, and Phoenix is about 2 hours in normal traffic.

Parking + shuttle reality (Jerome)

• Paid parking: $5 all day, with fees generally in effect from 10am–4pm daily.
• Free shuttle: usually Friday 11am–4pm and Saturday/Sunday + some holidays 11am–6pm.
• Best strategy: on busy weekends, park in the Perkinsville Road lot and ride in.
• Pro move: arrive before late morning if you want a closer spot in town.

Official parking info | Official shuttle info

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JEROME AZ

Jerome is one of the popular day trip destinations for people visiting Flagstaff and Phoenix since it can be visited throughout the year.

Spring and Fall are the most crowded months since they are the best months to visit Jerome, AZ as the weather is pleasant and perfect for being outdoors.

BEST TOURS TO JOIN TO EXPLORE JEROME, ARIZONA

PICK YOUR VIBE: THE BEST WAY TO DO JEROME

Jerome can be spooky, artsy, historic, romantic, or “let’s just eat dessert and buy vintage stuff.” Choose your vibe below and steal the plan.

💛 Couples: Romantic + a little haunted

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families: History + hands-on fun

✨ Girls Trip: Wine + shopping + cute photos

🧿 Solo: Slow wandering + “main character” views

BEST THINGS TO DO IN JEROME AZ

STOP AT THE VISITOR CENTER

As you arrive in the town, one of the top things to do in Jerome Az is to stop by the visitor centre.

Continue going up Cleopatra Hill to reach the Visitor’s Center on Hull Avenue.

Get the details of the attractions here, grab physical maps, inquire about guided tours if there are any, and get familiar with a brief history of Jerome. 

The visitor centre is the best place to begin your Jerome trip.

STROLL ALONG THE STREETS OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT

Jerome Historic District is one of the top things to do in Jerome Az. 

Walking up and down the town’s steep hills is an excellent way to admire the stunning views and get introduced to the town’s history and its distinct vibes of the Old Wild West. 

If you are traveling with children or want to hear the tales of the streets and its buildings from a local expert, I highly recommend taking this 1-hour tour – the Historic Tour of Jerome, a hassle-free and fantastic way to explore the city.

If you want to stay in the heart of the town in the historic district, check out The Clinkscale, a mining-era hotel, restaurant, and bar.

Known for its incredible atmosphere, this 1880s well-maintained heritage hotel is within walking distance of most shops and tour meeting places.

EXPLORE JEROME STATE HISTORIC PARK

Jerome Historic State Park is a short drive from downtown Jerome. 

It is one of the top things to do in Jerome Az as the museum is the perfect starting point for discovering the rich and complex history of the once-booming mining town.

Jerome State Historic Park is a historic mansion and estate located inside the old Douglas Mansion, built in 1916 beside the Little Daisy Mine, which was converted into a museum in Jerome, Arizona, in 1965.

The mansion was constructed in 1916 by the influential and wealthy Douglas family, which owned the town’s copper and other mines in the northeast region of the Black Hills.

This beautiful, historic, and impressive mansion sits high on a hill overlooking Jerome.

Enjoy the beautiful views of the Verde Valley from the grounds and the bird views of the remains of the mines from the Mansion viewpoint.

The mansion is worth touring, which is luxuriously decorated and spacious, especially the restored period room, the Douglas Library.

Other rooms contain exhibits of photographs, artefacts, 3-D models of the town and its mines, and information about the Douglas family and the history of the town of Jerome.

🏛️ Jerome State Historic Park (Douglas Mansion) 2026 quick facts

• Opening Hours: 9:00 am–4:30 pm daily
• Entry fees: Adults (14+) $10, Youth (7–13) $5, ages 0–6 free

Official info: AZ State Parks: Jerome State Historic Park

ADMIRE THE BEAUTIFUL VIEWS FROM THE HILL

One of the best attractions in Jerome Az is the Cleopatra Hill Lookout.

A short hike will take you atop Cleopatra Hill, upon which Jerome sits overlooking the fantastic Verde Valley. 

The lookout point is right next to Jerome State Park, so check this out before heading over to the other side.

STAY AT THE HISTORIC HOTELS

One of the fun things to do in Jerome AZ is to spend an overnight at the heritage hotels in the town.

Jerome Grand Hotel

Opened in 1927 as United Verde Hospital, the Jerome Grand Hotel is the largest hotel in town and one of the prominent landmarks.

A highly functioning hospital until it closed in 1950, the building stood empty for over four decades.

It reopened as the Jerome Grand Hotel in 1996. 

The 30,000-square-foot, five-story, 1926 Spanish Mission-style building atop Cleopatra Hill in the Verde Valley is one of the most haunted places in the town as well, with many apparition sightings luring ghost hunters to this hotel.

Admire the sweeping views of Jerome from this hotel and check out the antique furnishings and the original 1926 Otis elevator. 

The hotel also houses the famous Asylum Restaurant, one of the best fine-dining places in the town.

Whether you will witness sightings or not, I highly recommend this stay for families, as Jerome Grand Hotel boasts all sorts of room configurations, including 1- and 2-bedroom suites and connecting rooms.

The Connor Hotel

The Connor Hotel, located right on Main Street in downtown Jerome, near the Mine Museum, is one of the best heritage hotels in Jerome worth checking out. 

Conveniently located close to most restaurants and shops, there are many excellent reasons to stay in the Connor Hotel besides its fantastic location.

The hotel was initially built in 1898. The current building was built after the hotel was burnt for the second time.

This brick hotel operated until the 1930s before being restored to its glory and reopened to visitors.

The Connor Hotel comprises 12 rooms known for their early 20th-century rustic decor and is rumoured to be haunted by The Lady in Red. 

Connor Hotel is home to the Spirit Room, one of the oldest bars in Arizona, operating since its opening in 1898.

This historic bar offers live music four nights a week and is a fun place to unwind after sightseeing.

Check reviews and prices here to book your stay.

The Clinkscale 

The Clinkscale was built in 1899 and beautifully restored into a hotel, bar, and grill.

Also home to one of the famous heritage restaurants, The Clinkscale boasts luxurious rooms with antique decor, ideal for families.

DINE AT THE HISTORIC ASYLUM RESTAURANT

Located in the historic building which once housed a notorious lunatic asylum, the Asylum Restaurant is one of the best things to do in Jerome AZ.

The restaurant remains true to its name in the ambience even today as you notice that a slightly ghostly theme continues throughout the décor.

The restaurant serves a contemporary menu and a great bar serving delicious craft cocktails and wines.

Located in the historic Jerome Grand Hotel, you will be treated to stunning views in their outdoor dining area as you taste delicious cuisine.

CHECK OUT THE MINE MUSEUM

One of the top things to do in Jerome AZ to get to know the town’s history is the Jerome Historical Society Mine Museum, a non-profit museum and gift shop.

Housed in one of the former saloons in town, the Mine Museum is located at the corner of Main Street and Jerome Avenue, just across from Connor Hotel.

The museum, which is operated by the Jerome Historical Society, is the best place to begin your Jerome trip to get glimpses of the past of Jerome.

You will see exhibits, artefacts, photographs and hundreds of exquisite collections from the beginning of the town’s establishment to the present-day town.

Check out the remains of gambling games in old saloons, and vintage miner’s equipment, including hand-forged miners’ candlesticks, carbide lamps, cages, drills, ore carts and household goods.

Their extensive photo galleries comprise pictures of smelters and miners, and collections of newspapers, tokens, dishes, and milk bottles. 

Take home some souvenirs at the Mine Museum Gift Shop.

Opening hours – 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry fees – $2

VISIT AUDREY HEADFRAME PARK

One of the best things to do in Jerome AZ is visit Audrey Headframe Park, a non-profit museum that features historic mining equipment located next to Jerome State Historic Park.

A headframe is the hulking structure positioned above a mine shaft used to support the pulleys and other equipment needed for the cables to raise and lower elevators or ore cars. 

After a large copper deposit was discovered, the Audrey shaft was built to extract large amounts of high-grade ore.

Constructed in 1918, you’ll see historic mining equipment and a 1,700-foot mining shaft. 

The Audrey headframe and shaft were considered state-of-the-art technology for mining equipment. 

The shaft consists of three independent and concrete-lined segments that have horizontal hubs at depths between 800 and 1700 feet. 

Walk on the glass above a 1,900-foot mining shaft and peer down, imagining miners riding one of these about 2,000 feet below ground daily for work.

Also check out ore cars, timber cars, and drills. Get inside a large cave used to lift and lower miners down the shafts.

Opening hours – 8 AM to 5 PM 

CHECK OUT CONTEMPORARY ART

If you are an art enthusiast wondering what to do in Jerome Arizona, head to the charming Raku Gallery.

Formerly The New York Café ruin in Jerome, the building was transformed into Raku Gallery, opening its doors to the public for the first time in 1988.

The gallery, one of the best things to do in Jerome AZ, gets its name from the Zen word “raku,” which means ease, and happiness.

Browse fabulous artwork from over 200 artists across the Southwest in a cosy building built in Southwestern architecture, with wrought iron balconies and cactuses adorning the front.

You will find eclectic collections of crafts and fine arts that include furniture, sculptures, jewellery, blown glass, ceramics, and paintings in this 2,200-square-foot gallery.

Shop for beautiful jewellery, gifts, and furniture as souvenirs at the store on the premises.

STOP AT BARTLETT HOTEL

Among the best places to visit in Jerome is the historic Bartlett Hotel, which was built in 1901, replacing a wooden structure called the Grandview Hotel.

The Grandview Hotel was built in 1895. This high-society club and dancehall was destroyed in a massive city fire in 1898.

The original building housed Jerome’s newspaper, a bank, and a drugstore.

Known for its exquisite, lavish Victorian-style architecture with each room a different colour, the hotel was abandoned in the 1940s when the landslides began, and the Bartlett became unstable.

Today, see the skeleton of the once-mighty Bartlett Hotel on tour, exploring the hallowed grounds of the abandoned hotel, which feels a little ghostly, spooky, or perhaps even haunted.

WATCH A PLAY AT LIBERTY THEATRE

Liberty Theatre is one of the historic landmarks and among the fun things to do in Jerome AZ.

Liberty Theatre originally opened in 1918 and was around until 1930.

After being an antique shop for many years, a section of the building was renovated into Liberty Theatre, one of the top entertainment arenas in Jerome.

The theatre periodically shows films on the balcony level, while the main auditorium remains a gift and antique shop.

CHECK OUT CHIEF SURGEON’S HOUSE OR SPEND OVERNIGHT HERE

One of the heritage buildings in Jerome, Chief Surgeon’s House, constructed in 1917, is one of the top places to visit.

As the name indicates, Chief Surgeon’s House was established as the primary residence for the Chief Surgeon in Jerome, Arizona.

Now, listed on the National Historic Registry since the year of 1966, the beautiful white stucco mansion is a charming bed and breakfast. 

I highly recommend staying overnight here, choosing from their lavish guest suites with wood or Mexican Saltillo-tile floors, king beds, and eclectic furniture pieces. 

The Chief Surgeon’s house offers splendid views of Jerome and beyond, including the mystical Red Rock cliffs of Sedona, thanks to its fantastic location atop a mountain.

FUN THINGS TO DO IN JEROME AZ

MEET THE GHOSTS OF JEROME

One of my favourite things to do in Jerome AZ is the haunted tour that takes you on an epic journey where you will hear bone-chilling stories and experience the eerie side of the ghost town.

There are many themed private and group ghost tours you can choose from, combining history and horror, including the Original Ghost Adventure, Spirit Walk, and Jerome Haunted History Shuttle Tour. 

These walking tours take place after dark in haunted outdoor locations. 

You’ll visit the sites of unsolved murders, the scene of gambling, murder, prostitution, fatal accidents, and present-day ghost sightings. 

You will be equipped with flashlights and even electromagnetic field monitors, so you can even spot paranormal activity!

Hear the tales of the famous ghosts in the town, from a caretaker who committed suicide in the boiler room, a maintenance man crushed by the elevator in 1935, to Headless Charlie, who lost his head in a mining accident. 

Here are my top recommendations for the ghost tours:

CHECK OUT THE SLIDING JAIL

Among the top things to do in Jerome Az is the Sliding Jail.

In 1905, the Jerome Sliding Jail was built into a hill, and its inmates included gamblers, drunks, claim jumpers, prostitutes, and gunfighters. 

In the 1930s, extreme and constant excavation during the mining boom caused extensive landslides. 

This building began slowing downhill in 1938, following a mine blast. 

The jail slid slowly, stopping at various locations until it finally stopped on its current spot, about 225 feet from where it started, along the main street of Jerome beside a parking lot. 

A reminder of an Old Hollywood Western, the prison is one of the best and free things to see in Jerome.

The historic jail and stone rubble are now surrounded by an old iron fence and stabilised by retaining walls, and cannot be entered.

CHECK OUT GOLD KING MINE

One of the top things to do in Jerome Az is explore Gold King Mine Museum and Ghost Town. Located in the heart of town next to the Fire Station, you’ll find this historic ghost town.

They mined copper here from 1890 to 1914, with over 300 miners toiling throughout the year.

Developed by Don Robertson over the course of 30 years, you will find antiquated buildings and many well-preserved exhibits.

The mine shaft goes down 1270 ft. You can do gold or gem panning, watch knife making, or observe mining equipment demonstrations.

Check out an unused mine shaft, old machinery, including mining equipment, a sawmill, cars, antique trucks, a 1901 blacksmith shop, and many other antiques.

If you are with kids, head to the petting zoo, the open-air museum home to chickens, goats, rabbits, and donkeys.  

Opening hours – 9 AM to 5 PM

⛏️ Gold King Mine & Ghost Town (what to know)

• Hours: check the official site before you go, since seasonal hours can change.
• Admission: Ages 13–79 $12, ages 6–12 $7, ages 5 and under free.

Official Gold King Mine info

TASTE THE LOCAL WINES

If you are a wine lover, I highly recommend stopping by Caduceus Cellars, one of the fun things to do in Jerome, AZ.

The Original Jerome Winery, established in 2001, offers the only tasting flight of ports in the Arizona region and is located in the rolling Jerome hills.

This family-operated and owned small production winery with a tasting room location produces some of the finest wines in Arizona using Rhone, Italian, and Spanish varieties. 

Adorned with hardwood floors, brick walls, contemporary artwork, souvenirs, and an electronic photo album that shows the vineyard’s varying stages of growth, it is a fantastic place to unwind on your Jerome trip.

Sip on a Crisp Rose, Tarzan Red, Jane Pink, Chupacabra Rosa or a Fruity Red while you enjoy the endless views from the tasting room, which is finely decorated.

TRY THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN JEROME ARIZONA

No matter where you go, dining at the best places to eat is a must-do. 

There are many fantastic restaurants in Jerome you can choose from, depending on what you fancy.

Haunted Hamburger is a fun and good place to grab a bite. Rumoured to be haunted(hence the name), you can listen to the bizarre incidents that happened here.

One of the fun things to do in Jerome AZ, this outlet has plenty of outdoor seating where you can taste delicious burgers and hot dogs, enjoying stunning views. of Verde Valley. 

Grapes Restaurant & Bar was originally a Pony Express Station in the early 1900s.

Located along Main Street in the heart of historic Jerome, the restaurant features a rustic bar, comfortable leather booths, and a cosy patio. 

Enjoy the stunning views of the distant San Francisco Peaks and Verde Valley as you indulge in delicious and healthy Mediterranean-style foods topped with one from the plentiful selection of local wines.

If you are fond of BBs, head straight to Bobby D’s, one of the oldest restaurants in Jerome, established in 1899 by Chinese American immigrant, Charley Hong.

Although an English Kitchen, it served the best Chinese food in Jerome to miners.

The original restaurant closed in 2007, but the painted signs remain. 

Now, you can taste tasty smoking ribs, sausage, chicken, brisket, and pork on their patio.

The interior features red-painted walls, hardwood floors, a dining bar with fixed bar stools, a handful of vintage leather booths, coffered ceilings, and chalkboard menus. 

Craving for Mexican food in Jerome? Head to Vaqueros Grill & Cantina, the only Mexican restaurant in Jerome. 

You will be treated to traditional dishes like tamales, enchiladas, and tacos amidst their quirkily decorated interiors.

CHECK OUT NELLIE BLY KALEIDOSCOPES

Want to visit the world’s most extensive collection of kaleidoscopes? One of the fun things to do in Jerome AZ, is head to Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes, a unique art gallery in the town, especially if you are with kids.

Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes, open to visitors since 1988, features handcrafted kaleidoscopes from over 90 artists, ranging from elaborate to simple. 

You can touch, look through, and play with as many beautiful kaleidoscopes

They also have a large selection of hand-made marble and dichroic jewellery, made from wood, metal, and glass.

You can even buy a kaleidoscope necklace.

STOP AT JEROME ARTISTS COOPERATIVE

Jerome Artists Cooperative Gallery is a unique art gallery maintained and managed by artist members in Jerome, Arizona. 

Operating for over 10 years, it is one of the top attractions in Jerome for art lovers.

You can attend one of their galas, workshops, and social events during peak months.

Check out the exhibits of dozens of artworks by local artists, including beautiful oil paintings, jewellery, wood-turned vases and bowls, colourful pottery, blown glass, photographs, portraits, and African masks.

STROLL AT A LOCAL PARK

Laura Williams Park, a favourite local park and hangout spot among the residents, is one of the fun attractions in Jerome to check out with your kids.

With a vast playground and plenty of grassy space, you and your kids will relax amidst the greenery. 

During Christmas, this park turns into a magical place with all the display lights and plenty of holiday activities and special events.

VISIT A GLASS BLOWING STUDIO

One of the fun things to do with kids in Jerome is to stop at La Victoria Glass Blowing Studio, where you can watch and enjoy glass blowing.

You can buy any of their beautiful hand-made souvenirs to take home, or better, custom-make them yourself after picking up this new skill.

VISIT A FORMER BROTHEL

One of the unusual things to do in Jerome, AZ is visiting the House of Joy Brothel, constructed in 1898.

The House of Joy has changed over the years, from a brothel to a restaurant, and a souvenir shop.

Currently, an art studio, The House of Joy Art Gallery, makes a quick stop at this historic building that features fantastic artworks of mostly Arizona artists.

ATTEND THE ART WALK

If you are traveling on the first Saturday of the month, one of the must-visit attractions in Jerome is the art walk.

Jerome’s First Saturday Art & Wine Walk takes place every evening from 5 to 8 PM. You can explore the art galleries on your own with an art walk map, or take a shuttle. 

It is one of the best events to meet local artists and indulge in the excellent works of talented artists, enjoying live music and snacks.

THINGS TO DO IN JEROME AZ FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS

Explore Tuzigoot National Monument

Tuzigoot National Monument is one of the best add-ons from Jerome if you want ancient history with almost zero planning drama. It sits near Clarkdale, so it pairs easily with a Jerome day or a slower Verde Valley weekend.

The monument preserves a Sinagua pueblo with about 110 rooms built roughly 1,000 years ago on a ridge above the Verde River. It is an easy, worthwhile stop if you want a break from Jerome’s steep hills and haunted vibe.

Unlike the other national monuments in Arizona, primarily cliff-dwelling sites belonging to the other Indigenous tribes, Tuzigoot National Monument is a hilltop dwelling site.

2026 quick facts: Tuzigoot is typically open daily from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Entry is currently $10 per adult age 16+, children 15 and under are free, and the pass also covers Montezuma Castle for 7 days.

How long you need: The Pueblo Trail takes about 30–45 minutes, so this works well as a half-day add-on from Jerome.

JOIN WINE TASTING TOURS

Located within the abundant Verde Valley, one of the top wine-producing regions in Arizona, Jerome boasts many wine cellars.

Join any wine-tasting tour as it is one of the fun things to do in Jerome AZ, most being family-friendly and suitable to take your kids.

Cellar 433 has a beautiful tasting room that spans two floors and has sweeping views of the valley below. 

Passion Cellars – The winery specializes in fruit-forward, complex and artistically blended red and white wines, bottled under the Salvatore name, after the winemaker’s grandfather, Salvatore Ligammari. 

Plan a day trip to Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Dead Horse Ranch State Park is an easy outdoor add-on from Jerome if you want a calmer, greener break from the steep streets and mining history.

It is near Cottonwood, so it works especially well if you are already pairing Jerome with Clarkdale, Tuzigoot, or Verde Valley wineries.

The park is best for easy trails, birding, fishing, lagoons, picnic time, and a low-effort family stop. If you want more than a quick visit, you can also camp or book one of the cabins.

What to know: the park is open year-round, gates close at dark, and seasonal day-use hours apply. Current day-use fees start at $10 per vehicle for one person, $20 per vehicle for 2–4 people, and $5 for individuals arriving by bike or on foot.

JEROME BIBLE ART MUSEUM

If you want something unusual and quietly memorable, stop by the Jerome Bible Art Museum.

It is free to enter and showcases handmade, painted clay sculptures depicting stories and scenes from the Bible, along with a gallery of ceramic animals next door.

Current hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 am–4:30 pm, Sunday 11:00 am–5:00 pm.

Location: 50 Main St, Jerome, AZ, downstairs in the New State Motor Company building.

WEEKEND PLANS: 1-3 DAYS IN JEROME (DONE RIGHT)

SIGNATURE JEROME NIGHTS (WORTH STAYING OVERNIGHT FOR)

Jerome isn’t just a “daytime town.” After dark it gets cozier, weirder (in the best way), and way more fun. Pick one night anchor, then keep the rest simple: dinner, a slow stroll, and no rushing back down the mountain.

FOOD + DRINKS IN JEROME (WORTH THE CALORIES)

KNOW THIS BEFORE YOU PLAN

• If you only have 1 day: Do a short history walk first, then Douglas Mansion, lunch + shops, and one ghost tour or night stop.
• No-car version: Stay right on Main Street, use the free shuttle from the Perkinsville lot on busy weekends, and keep your day focused on downtown + Douglas Mansion.
• With kids: Gold King Mine, Douglas Mansion, and short walking loops are your easiest wins. Strollers are tough here because Jerome is steep.
• If you hate crowds: Arrive before late morning, do the museum first, then wander after lunch or stay overnight when the day-trippers clear out.

WHERE TO STAY IN JEROME AZ

JEROME FAQS

MAP OF THINGS TO DO IN JEROME AZ