How to Spend One Day in Jerome, AZ

Some friends and I decided to head north for a day trip to Jerome, AZ. Being one of the most haunted towns in Arizona, it only seemed fitting to visit during October.

Jerome was founded in 1876 as a huge mining community. When the mine closed in 1953 the towns population went from over 15-thousand people to roughly 46 overnight, making Jerome the largest ghost town in America.

Also, known as the wickedest city in the west, this small mountain town was considered the murder capital for decades. The mine brought people from over 23 different nationalities to Jerome looking for work and new life. Cultural clashes often occurred leading to fatal outcomes. Between the numerous murders and mining accidents, Jerome has seen its fair share of death and it’s no wonder its considered a haunted hotspot.

The town became a National Historic District in the 1960s and now serves as a tourist destination and artist community. If you find yourself in Jerome, here’s some stuff to check out and do…

Where to Eat in Jerome

Haunted Hamburger

Haunted Hamburger is a must when in Jerome. They serve more than just hamburgers but I’d definitely recommend getting one. The southwest sourdough burger is delicious, and so is the prickly pear marg.

Wicked City Brew

A cute little bar across the street from Haunted Hamburger. They have some good local beers on tap, wine and spirits (of the alcoholic variety). Stop here for a mid-day break and play a board game or Cards Against Humanity like we did.

Bobby D’s BBQ

The bartender at Wicked City suggested this place, and we were really happy we took his suggestion. The food is absolutely delicious! Try the pulled pork tacos and sauce them up with some of the jalapeño molasses bbq. You can thank me later.

What to do in Jerome, AZ

Gold King Mine & Ghost Town

Definitely check this place out while in the city. In the “backyard” of this small gift shop, there’s the Gold King Mine and remnants of the past. The field is full of old buildings, rusty vintage cars, this thing that fires off what sounds like blasts from a tank (I’m not really sure what that thing is), and even some farm animals. There’s a small entrance fee to get in but it’s worth it.

Ghost Tour

How can you visit the largest ghost town in America and not do a ghost tour? Believer or not, it’s an interesting way to learn the history of the city. We booked the Haunted History Tour with Ghost Town Tours via Groupon.

Other things to check out:

Douglas Mansion
The Spirit Room

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5 COMMENTS

World of Lina
5 years ago

Jerome looks really gorgeous!

Patti
5 years ago

I visited the Ghost Town of Bodie in California and fell in love with it. I would love to check out Jerome as well. Plus Deadwood! These old west towns intrigue me.

Alissa Teijeiro
5 years ago

Honestly, I’m a bit of a chicken so I might only be brave enough for a daytime ghost tour haha. But i’m here for that burger! It sounds delicious.

Get Lost
5 years ago

What a fascinating place! I’d love to explore a ghost town! We don’t really have any in the UK. I’m saving this to come back to, hopefully we’ll have an opportunity to visit! Thanks for the great guide!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/