If you ask anyone what the most haunted town in Arizona is, chances are they'll say Jerome. This former mining camp is infamous for its paranormal activity - understandable, considering the fact that thousands of miners died here after suffering tragic accidents on the job. What a lot of people don't know, however, is that Jerome is actually one of the most charming small towns in Arizona. Between its rich history, quaint town square brimming with shops and restaurants, and sweeping panoramic vistas, Jerome is worth a visit from any corner of the state. Don't let the ghost stories keep you away!
Nestled in the Black Hills of Yavapai County, Jerome was founded in 1899 as a copper mining camp.
In its heyday, the town boasted a population of nearly 15,000. After all, it was home to some of the world's richest copper deposits.
Despite being located just 100 miles north of Phoenix, Jerome feels like an entirely different world.
This is partially due to the winding road that connects the two cities. State Route 89A is a rather well-traveled highway, but as it curves further into the hills, it's one of the loneliest drives in the state.
The riches unearthed in Jerome totaled over a billion dollars, and even after the mines dried up, hopefuls came searching for their pot of gold.
It's no surprise, then, that the town quickly devolved into a hotspot for crime and vice activity, earning it the nickname "The Wickedest Town in the West" - but not for long.
As mineworkers fled to find work elsewhere, the ne'er-do-wells slowly began trickling out as well.
Today, Jerome is a ghost town with a population of under 500, but its eccentric charm has turned it into a thriving tourist destination.
Sure, there's a cemetery where mine workers are buried, and the infamous Jerome Grand Hotel has its fair share of ghost stories...
...but Jerome is also a hub for creativity, brimming with museums, art galleries, wineries, and boutique inns, and bed and breakfasts. The town square has delightful shops and restaurants around every corner, and a rich, historical undercurrent buzzes throughout the city.
Whether you're educating yourself on the town's mining past at Jerome State Historic Park or experiencing it firsthand at Gold King Mine Museum and Ghost Town, there's plenty for the whole family to see and do.
Afterward, refuel at Haunted Hamburger, a quirky restaurant that plays on the town's alleged paranormal activity.
Not only are the burgers out-of-this-world delicious, the views from your table are hard to beat.
Gaze miles into the Verde Valley while you eat, enjoying the scenery from over 5,000 feet above sea level.
Have you ever been to Jerome? What are some other charming small towns in Arizona? Tell us your favorites in the comments below! Don't forget to check out our previous article for some of our top picks.
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