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Jerome Historic District: A Copper Queen's Legacy

Explore Jerome's historic streets, art galleries, and breathtaking views in this vibrant, mile-high former copper mining town.

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Perched high on Cleopatra Hill, the Jerome Historic District is a testament to Arizona's copper mining boom. Once a bustling and wicked mining town, it's now a vibrant arts community with stunning views and a rich history.

A brief summary to Jerome Historic Disrict

  • 557 Main St, Jerome, Arizona, 86331, US

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking Jerome's steep hills and stairs.
  • Visit the Jerome State Historic Park to learn about the town's mining history.
  • Explore the local art galleries and studios showcasing a variety of mediums.
  • Check out the Jerome Historical Society for information on museums and special projects.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Jerome is best explored on foot due to its steep, winding streets and limited parking. From the Jerome Visitor Center at 600 Clark St, most attractions are within a short walk. Be prepared for uphill climbs and stairs. Main Street's shops and galleries are easily accessible, and the Douglas Mansion is a moderate walk uphill.

  • Driving

    If arriving by car, be aware that parking in Jerome is limited, especially during peak season. There are four 'pay-to-park' areas in town. These are the lower parking lot next to the Sliding Jail, the middle parking lot off Hull Avenue, the east side of Main Street from School Street to First Avenue, and the lot across from the Connor Hotel. Parking costs $7 for all-day parking. Free parking is available at the large "300 Level" parking lot on Perkinsville Road, with a free shuttle service into town on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Fees are in effect between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Vehicles displaying handicapped placards are exempt from parking fees.

  • Shuttle

    A free shuttle service operates in Jerome on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. The shuttle connects the free parking lot on Perkinsville Road with key locations in town, including the Jerome Historic Society Office, Turquoise Spider, and Ghost City Inn. This is a convenient option to avoid parking challenges in the town center. Contact the Shuttle Phone at (928) 821-0133 for an as-needed route.

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Discover more about Jerome Historic Disrict

The Jerome Historic District, a National Historic Landmark, clings to the steep slopes of Cleopatra Hill in central Arizona. Founded in the late 19th century, Jerome boomed as a copper mining camp, extracting riches from the surrounding Black Hills. The town was named after Eugene Jerome, a New York financier who invested in the United Verde Copper Company. By the early 20th century, Jerome was a thriving urban center, known as the "Billion Dollar Copper Camp". Its population peaked at 15,000 in the 1920s, drawing a diverse mix of people from around the world. Jerome gained a reputation as the "wickedest town in the West", filled with saloons, brothels, and a rough-and-tumble atmosphere. However, Jerome's fortunes declined with the demand for copper. The mines closed in 1953, leading to a mass exodus and leaving Jerome a near-ghost town. In the 1960s and 70s, artists and free spirits began to revitalize the town, drawn by its unique character and affordable real estate. Today, the Jerome Historic District retains much of its early 20th-century character, with historic buildings lining winding roads. Visitors can explore the town's museums, art galleries, shops, and restaurants, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Verde Valley. The Jerome State Historic Park, centered around the Douglas Mansion, offers insights into the town's mining history and the Douglas family.

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