Jerome is a historic Copper mining town that clings to Cleopatra Hill overlooking the Verde Valley.
Dubbed the Wickedest Town in the West by a New York newspaper in 1903, Jerome today is an eclectic artist colony with galleries that offer an absolutely amazing array of art and handmade treasures. Local art extends to the art of wine making including the musical group Tool front man Maynard James Keenan’s tasting room right across the street from Chef Michelle Jurisin’s Grapes Restaurant & Bar.
Shop in comfortable shoes. The shopping district meanders up and down hills and the best place to take a break is the Haunted Hamburger or the patio at Grapes Restaurant & Bar with views that look across the Verde Valley all the way to the San Francisco Peaks.
Shopping, dining and wine tasting are the main attractions in Jerome today. Jerome has been called the most eclectic artist community in America. Looking for unique? Jerome is the epicenter of unique. A day of shopping in Jerome is like no other. Many of the stores have back walls that are floor to ceiling windows looking out across the Verde Valley. There’s a store dedicated to kaleidoscopes of every variety and material. Also available at every turn are gems, collectibles, one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry by local artists, glass blowing demonstrations and street artists. Plan ahead & be sure not to miss the First Saturday Art Walk every month. Stop in the Firefly, a shop inspired by nature with ever changing offerings by local and national artists.
Things to do near Jerome:
Verde Valley Railway: “It’s not the destination..It’s the journey” The Verde Canyon Railroad boasts a truly spectacular experience carving through the red rock hills. You can catch Bald Eagle and other wildlife during the 20 mile adventure. This is an ideal event for the whole family.
Jail Trail: The trail begins in the old rock jail parking area in Old Town across the street from Pizzeria Bocce. It’s an easy walk along the Verde River to Dead Horse Ranch State Park or loop back into Old Town Cottonwood.
Tuzigoot National Monument: Tuzigoot is a pueblo ruin on the summit of a limestone and sandstone ridge. The park offers rich natural history of the Sinagua indians while taking in breathtaking imagery of the lush green valley.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park: Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers visitors access to camp, fish, and hike the beautiful banks of the Verde River.
Montezuma National Monument: The Monument protects a set of well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. The cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people date back to the 12th century.
Out of Africa: This world class wildlife park and zoo is located in Camp Verde just west of I-17 on the way to Cottonwood. Tiger Splash, the Giant Snake Show, Predator Zip Line, the African Bush Safari – lots of fun for the whole family.
Slide Rock: Visitors of Slide Rock can enjoy wading in the water and sliding down the slick natural water chute. This family friendly get away is the perfect way to spend a day.
Courthouse Butte Loop Trail: There are two entrances to this moderate hiking trail which spans approximately 4.2miles. Beginner and leisurely hikers or those looking for a little climb may want to take the Bell Rock Trail and join the crowd at the base of Bell Rock. You’ll typically find a group of people who gather to play and test their climbing skills. If you’re up for it, continue on the loop and be rewarded by the gorgeous scenery. The trail offers spectacular views of the red rocks & of course the Bell Rock structure towering high over the desert landscape.
Arizona’s Wine Country
Verde Valley Wine Trail:
The Verde Valley shares similar characteristics with some of the great wine producing regions in the world.
The Verde Valley shares similar characteristics with some of the great wine producing regions in the world.
On Scenic and Historic 89A in Historic Old Town
904 N. Main Street, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Hotel Front Desk: 928.639.1669