Haunted Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour from Scottsdale/Phoenix

An Engaging Day Out: Haunted Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour from Scottsdale or Phoenix

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines history, haunting tales, and tastings of some of Arizona’s best wines and beers, the Haunted Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour from Scottsdale/Phoenix offers exactly that. Priced at $350 per person, this roughly 9-hour experience will take you from the vibrant suburbs of Scottsdale into the heart of Arizona’s Copper State, visiting two distinct towns: Cottonwood and the historic Jerome. The tour is perfect for those who love a mix of history, local flavors, and a touch of spooky tales, with all the convenience of pickup and mobile tickets.

What we love about this experience is how it balances informative storytelling with leisurely tasting opportunities. First, you’ll explore Jerome’s unique streets, walking through a town that once was the fourth largest city in Arizona, now transformed into a lively hub of artists, musicians, and quirky shops. Second, the visit to Cottonwood offers the chance to sample Maynard Keenan’s new vineyard, which opens October 6th, giving you a rare glimpse into the local wine scene.

A potential consideration is the duration of the drive—approximately two hours each way—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy longer scenic rides and don’t mind a bit of travel to get to the towns. Also, since the tour involves alcohol tastings, travelers should be comfortable with moderate drinking and a flexible schedule for the day’s pace.

This tour suits history buffs, wine and beer lovers, and those seeking a taste of Arizona’s colorful past—all wrapped in a well-organized, small-group setting that keeps things intimate and engaging.

Key Points

Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines history, local culture, and tasting experiences in one package.
Small Group: Max of 14 travelers for a more personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts.
Flexible Tasting Options: Choose between wine, brewery, or both at Cottonwood; visit Maynard Keenan’s vineyard early in its opening.
Authentic Exploration: Stroll through Jerome’s streets, learning about its lively past as a mining hub and its quirky present as an artist enclave.
Value for Money: The price includes transport, guided tours, and tastings (excluding alcohol and meals), providing a well-rounded experience.
Booking & Cancellation: Book at least six days in advance for best availability; free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead.

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A Full Breakdown of Your Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Scottsdale Pickup & Transportation

Starting around 9:00 am in Scottsdale, you’ll be picked up from a convenient location, with the comfort of a private or semi-private vehicle. The drive to Cottonwood takes about two hours, giving you ample time to settle in, enjoy the scenery, and discuss what’s ahead. The group is limited to 14 travelers, so it remains intimate enough for genuine conversations with your guide.

Exploring Cottonwood: Wine, Beer, and Early Wine Tasting

Your first stop is Cottonwood, a charming town that acts as a gateway to Arizona’s wine country. Here, you get to choose between wine tastings at Merkin Vineyards or a visit to a local brewery. The highlight is Maynard Keenan’s vineyard, which opens October 6th, making this a rare chance to see a celebrity vineyard in its infancy.

You might find the tasting room offers excellent selections—some reviews praise the “fantastic wine,” and the experience of trying the fruits of a well-known musician’s vineyard is a memorable highlight. The admission for this part is free, allowing you to focus your budget on the tastings and lunch.

Jerome: The Wicked Town with a Haunted Past

After a couple of hours in Cottonwood, you’ll head to Jerome, often called one of the “wickedest towns in the west.” Its rise and fall as a copper-mining boomtown in the early 20th century is central to understanding its character today. The town’s Grand Hotel once served as the local hospital, adding to its layered history.

Walking through Jerome’s streets, you’ll hear stories of miners, bootleggers, gamblers, and prostitutes—each chapter reflected in the town’s preserved buildings and vibrant arts scene. Your guide will share tales of Jerome’s past, including its notorious reputation and how it transformed into an artist community.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore independently, allowing plenty of time to browse the shops, grab lunch, or snap photos of the colorful, clifftop setting. Visitors often comment on the unique shops and delicious eateries, making Jerome an ideal spot to soak up local flavor.

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Return Journey and Final Tasting Opportunities

After exploring Jerome, you’ll return to Scottsdale around mid-afternoon, completing your day with a sense of having experienced both Arizona’s historic depths and its vibrant present. The round trip includes stops at local wineries and breweries, giving you a taste of the region’s diverse alcohol scene.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

A reviewer named Cheri_B shared, “We had a slow start with car issues but it was fixed and postponed until the next day. We had a great time exploring Jerome and 2 wineries. Our tour guide was great and accommodating. Thank you!” This highlights the flexibility and friendly nature of the tour, as well as the quality of guide-led narration.

Many travelers appreciate the balanced mix of history and tasting. The small group size makes for engaging conversations and a more relaxed pace, while the early access to Maynard Keenan’s vineyard adds a special, almost exclusive touch.

The tastings—though not included in the price—are considered excellent value, especially when paired with the tour’s logistical convenience. The delicious food and tapas available at Jerome’s eateries also receive praise, making the lunch stop both tasty and satisfying.

Practical Details & Considerations

The price of $350 reflects a comprehensive experience, including transportation, guided commentary, and tastings, offering a good value when you consider the personalized small-group environment. Most travelers find the 9-hour duration worth it, especially given the scenic drive and curated stops.

Since the tour involves alcohol consumption, participants must be 21 or older. The tour runs most days with bookings typically made 6 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind for flexible travel plans.

Travelers should be comfortable with long drives and be prepared for a mix of outdoor walking and indoor tasting. The weather can vary, so dressing appropriately is advised, especially in cooler months.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, wine and beer lovers, and adventurers seeking a unique taste of Arizona. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group atmospheres, storytelling, and authentic local experiences. It also appeals to those who appreciate a bit of spooky lore intertwined with their sightseeing.

If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day that combines cultural exploration with tastings and interesting stories, this trip delivers on all counts.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, your pickup from Scottsdale is arranged, and the transport is included in the price. The drive to and from Cottonwood and Jerome takes about two hours each way.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol? While tastings are a key part of the experience, you can choose to skip wine or brewery tastings at Cottonwood, focusing on exploring Jerome instead.

What’s the best time to book? Booking at least 6 days in advance helps secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. Since the tour is popular, early reservations are recommended.

Are there any age restrictions? Yes, participants must be at least 21 years old to partake in alcohol tastings.

How long do stops last? The visit to Cottonwood lasts about 4 hours, including tastings, while Jerome’s exploration lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers transportation, guided commentary, and tastings at Cottonwood, but alcohol and meals are extra.

Is the tour suitable for all weather? The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour? The group is limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, and cash or cards for meals and additional tastings.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour from Scottsdale/Phoenix offers a curated slice of Arizona charm—blending history, local flavors, and a dash of spooky intrigue. It stands out because of its small-group format and knowledgeable guides who bring stories alive, making the experience both informative and fun.

For those who love wine, craft beer, and historic towns, this tour provides a well-rounded day with enough flexibility to enjoy Jerome’s artsy vibe and cottonwood’s viticultural offerings. The inclusion of Maynard Keenan’s vineyard adds a contemporary twist, appealing to fans and newcomers alike.

While it’s a longer day and involves some travel, the value in tasting and storytelling makes it worthwhile for anyone wanting to combine Arizona’s past and present in one memorable outing. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or just seeking a different way to spend a day, this tour delivers a rich, engaging experience that’s both fun and educational.