Jerome Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Sedona and want a well-rounded glimpse of its nearby treasures, the Jerome Tour offered by Ma Pa Tours could be a solid choice. This five-hour journey takes you through some of Arizona’s most interesting spots—think historic ruins, a quirky old mining town, and an artist community built into the hills. It’s designed for small groups, which means more personalized attention and a relaxed pace, making it appealing whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends.

What we genuinely like about this tour is how it balances interesting history with scenic charm. The guides seem to do a good job of sharing stories that make the places come alive—something that can often be missing in larger, more generic tours. Plus, the inclusion of Tuzigoot National Monument and the Sliding Jail adds a touch of local lore that’s both fun and educational.

One possible drawback to consider is the tour’s timing and pace. While five hours isn’t long, you’ll be covering quite a bit, which might feel rushed if you’re a slow walker or someone who prefers more time to explore each spot thoroughly. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget extra time and money for that in Jerome itself.

This tour will suit travelers who appreciate history, enjoy small-group settings, and are interested in a mix of cultural and scenic stops. If you’re after a relaxed, informative outing with some fun photo ops and stories, you’ll likely find this tour worth your time.

Key Points

• Small group size (up to 14 people) allows for a more personalized experience.
• Includes Tuzigoot National Monument entry, giving you a peek into regional history.
• Knowledgeable guides deliver engaging stories about Jerome’s wild west past and local attractions.
• Flexible stops in Jerome offer options for shopping, sightseeing, or grabbing lunch.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience to your day.
• Cost-effective considering the capped group and included attractions.

We always appreciate when a tour combines history, scenery, and local culture—this one checks many of those boxes. Let’s walk through the itinerary to understand what you’re signing up for and why it might be a good fit.

Starting Out in Sedona

The tour begins at 9:00 am, a smart choice to beat the crowds and get the most out of your day. The pickup at your Sedona hotel (most locations are covered with advance notice) means you won’t have to fuss with finding a meeting point, which is a huge plus. The group size maxes out at 14 travelers, so it’s unlikely you’ll feel lost in a crowd, and your guide can tailor the experience a bit based on the group’s interests.

The Charm of Jerome

The highlight here is the visit to Jerome, a town with a compelling past. Once a lively wild west mining town, Jerome has transformed into an artsy enclave, full of colorful homes built into the Black Hills. It’s that contrast—rough-and-tumble history mixed with creative, quirky living—that makes Jerome so appealing.

The guide will point out historic buildings like the Douglas Mansion and the Little Daisy Hotel, giving you a taste of the town’s colorful past. Expect plenty of stories about Jerome’s mining days, and don’t be surprised if your guide shares anecdotes that leave you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. One reviewer raved, “The hardest part is getting there,” appreciating the scenic drive and narration that made the journey part of the experience.

Exploring Local History at Jerome State Historic Park

Next, you’ll visit Jerome State Historic Park, which is included in your ticket. Here, you’ll get a deeper understanding of the town’s mining boom, with exhibits and preserved buildings that tell the story of Jerome’s rough-and-tumble past. If weather or schedules permit, there might be extra stops at the Copper Museum or Tuzigoot National Monument—both adding layers of history and natural beauty to your experience.

One visitor shared, “Bobby was a great guide and told a lot of good stories,” emphasizing how much local storytelling enhances the visit. The park is a compact but engaging spot, perfect for snapping a few photos and soaking in the local atmosphere.

The Infamous Sliding Jail

No visit to Jerome would be complete without a stop at the Sliding Jail. This tiny historic jail is famous for its unique construction—built into a hillside and set on a slant, giving it the name. It’s a quick stop, but one that’s packed with curiosity and a bit of fun. Visitors generally find it amusing and worth the brief visit, with one noting “the jail is a fun piece of local lore.”

Flexibility and Personalization

While the core stops are set, the tour allows for some flexibility—weather and time permitting. You might enjoy a leisurely stroll through Jerome’s shops and galleries, or grab a bite at one of the local cafes (lunch is at your expense). The guide’s storytelling and local knowledge help make each stop feel personalized and interesting.

Additional Practicalities

Bottled water is provided, which is a small but thoughtful touch, especially on warm days. The tour also adheres to Arizona state law, requiring children eight and under to be in a car seat or booster—so if you’re traveling with little ones, plan accordingly.

The five-hour duration includes the drive, stops, and some free time, making it a manageable half-day adventure. The price point of around $130.72 per person reflects a good value for a small-group, guided experience that covers so much ground and delivers insider stories.

Several reviews highlight how much people appreciated the guides’ knowledge and storytelling. For example, one said, “Our guide Max was fantastic in giving us a true customized tour,” and another appreciated the “excellent narration of not only what we were seeing but the history behind it.” It’s clear that knowledgeable guides are a key part of what makes this tour memorable.

A common theme among reviewers is how much they enjoyed the stops and the pacing—stopping long enough to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The tour seems well-organized, making it suitable even for those unfamiliar with the area or who prefer a relaxed approach to sightseeing.

Considering the price and what’s included—hotel pickup, Tuzigoot entry, bottled water, and a guided tour—the cost is reasonable. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for engaging conversations and personalized attention. It’s a good way to see Jerome without the hassle of driving yourself, especially if you’re not comfortable navigating the winding roads or don’t want to worry about parking.

However, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to allocate some time and money for that in Jerome. Also, if you’re someone who prefers to linger at each location, this might feel a little brisk. But if your priority is combining scenic drive, historical insight, and a taste of Jerome’s unique character, this tour hits the mark.

This guided experience is ideal for travelers who want a curated, informative visit to Jerome and its surroundings without the stress of planning every detail. History buffs and those interested in old mining towns will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also perfect if you prefer traveling in a small, intimate group where the guide can cater to your interests.

If you’re traveling with children over eight, they’ll be compliant with Arizona law, but do note that younger kids require a car seat or booster. Overall, it’s a well-rounded tour that balances sightseeing, storytelling, and scenic drives—great for those who want a taste of Jerome’s wild west past combined with a dash of Arizona scenery.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, most Sedona hotels are covered for pickup and drop-off, making the experience convenient and hassle-free.

What is included in the tour fee?
Your fee covers Tuzigoot National Monument entry, bottled water, and the guiding services. Lunch and gratuities are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 3:00-3:30 pm.

Can I cancel the tour free of charge?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour start are not refunded.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children over eight years old are allowed, but they must be in a car seat or booster seat per Arizona law, which you need to provide.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This Jerome Tour offers a friendly, approachable way to explore a fascinating corner of Arizona. With knowledgeable guides, a manageable group size, and a mix of history and charm, it’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to see Jerome and get a glimpse of its wild west roots—all without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you’re into history, scenic drives, or quirky towns, this experience will likely add something special to your Sedona trip.