Prescott, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you looking for a magical getaway from daily life? Look no further than Prescott, Arizona. This charming town is full of Wild West history and exciting attractions. It's just a 2-hour drive north of Phoenix, offering many top experiences that will leave you wanting more.

Key Takeaways

• Prescott, Arizona is a historic mining town with a rich Western heritage, located about 2 hours north of Phoenix.
• The town boasts a variety of popular attractions, from the iconic Courthouse Plaza to the lively Whiskey Row district.
• Visitors can delve into Prescott's past at the Sharlot Hall Museum, explore the great outdoors along the Granite Creek Trail, and browse the charming Antique Row.
• Prescott offers a diverse range of dining, shopping, and recreational options, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or day trip.
• Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just soaking up the town's unique ambiance, Prescott has something to captivate every traveler.

Courthouse Plaza: The Heart of Downtown

At the center of Prescott's historic downtown is the Courthouse Plaza. It's a lively spot that brings the community together. The area shows off the city's history with the Yavapai County Courthouse at its core. This building from 1916 is one of Arizona's oldest public structures.

Historic Buildings and Attractions

People can check out the courthouse's stunning design and learn about the area's history. The plaza also has other historic buildings, each with its own story. You'll find the Elks Opera House and unique shops and eateries around the plaza, giving a peek into Prescott's past.

Events and Gatherings

The Courthouse Plaza is buzzing with events all year round. It's the spot for the famous Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo in July. The plaza also hosts festivals, concerts, and community events, making it a lively spot for everyone.

Statues and Memorials

There are statues and memorials around the plaza that honor Prescott's history and notable figures. The Statehood Tree, planted in 2012, celebrates Arizona's 100th birthday. The Bucky O'Neill statue and the Yavapai County Fallen Officer Memorial are just a few of the meaningful monuments here.

"The Courthouse Plaza is the beating heart of Prescott, a place where the past and present come together in a vibrant celebration of community."

Whiskey Row: A Wild West Experience

Step back to the Wild West days in Prescott, Arizona, and explore Whiskey Row. This area was the heart of the town's lively saloon scene during the late 19th-century gold rush. The Palace Saloon, open since 1877, is a key spot for drinks and fun.

The Famous Palace Saloon

Enter the Palace Saloon, a place loved by visitors for years. It was a spot for Doc Holliday, a famous gambler and dentist. Now, it offers live music and entertainment, just like in the old days.

Other Historic Saloons and Attractions

Whiskey Row has more historic saloons that show off Prescott's Wild West history. The Bird Cage Saloon and Rusty Spur Saloon keep the era's spirit alive. You'll also find unique shops, the historic Hotel St. Michael, and the "Love Locks" fence for couples.

Looking for the Old West thrill or just enjoying the charm? Whiskey Row in Prescott is a top spot. Check out the famous saloons, shop, and dive into the town's rich history.

Sharlot Hall Museum: Preserving Prescott's History

In the heart of Prescott, Arizona, the Sharlot Hall Museum is a key part of the city's history. It's an open-air complex filled with artifacts, documents, and exhibits. These tell the story of Prescott and its early settlers.

Historic Buildings and Exhibits

The museum has several historic buildings, each with its own story. You can see the Governor's Mansion, Fremont House, and Bashford House. They show what life was like back then.

These buildings let you see the architecture and lifestyles of the past. They make learning about history fun and real.

Territorial Women's Memorial Rose Garden

The Territorial Women's Memorial Rose Garden is a beautiful spot. It honors the brave frontier women who settled Arizona. With hundreds of roses, it's perfect for history fans and nature lovers.

The Sharlot Hall Museum is all about sharing Prescott's history. It teaches visitors about the past through historic buildings, the Rose Garden, and exhibits. It's a special place that celebrates Prescott's heritage.

"The Sharlot Hall Museum is a true gem, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and discover the fascinating history of Prescott. It's a must-visit for anyone exploring the area." - Megan Gilmour, Prescott Visitor

Antique Row: A Treasure Trove of Finds

In the heart of Prescott, Arizona, Antique Row is a treasure hunter's dream. This lively area on Cortez Street is filled with antique shops. Each shop has its own special items, from collectibles to handmade goods.

Don't miss Prescott Downtown Antiques, A Step in Time Antiques & Collectibles, and Scarlett's Curated Collection. These places have everything from antique furniture to vintage clothes and toys. They offer a wide variety of treasures that will amaze you.

Antique Row isn't just about traditional antiques. It also has shops for special interests. Lost in Sports Antiques has sports memorabilia and vintage gear. Modern Day Forager Mercantile mixes antique items with local artisan products. For music lovers, Gray Dog Guitars is a must-see, with new and vintage instruments and a great vinyl collection.

Walking through Antique Row feels like stepping back in time. You'll see the history and charm of Prescott. Whether you're looking for something specific or just want to explore, this area will amaze you. It's the perfect place to find vintage treasures Prescott.

So, embrace your inner explorer and experience the Antique Row Prescott adventure. It's where history and today meet, offering a unique antique shopping Prescott journey.

Granite Creek Trail: A Scenic Urban Hike

In the heart of Prescott, Arizona, the Granite Creek Trail is a scenic hike. It's a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The 2.6-mile trail follows Granite Creek, offering a peaceful outdoor experience close to the city.

Access Points and Trailheads

You can start the Granite Creek Trail from various spots in Prescott. A popular spot is near Whiskey Row, with parking and steps down to the trail. There are also trailheads at other key spots, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the trail.

Dining Options Along the Trail

Along the trail, you'll find places to eat with beautiful creek views. El Gato Azul Cafe, Casa Alvarez, and Dinner Bell Cafe are great for a meal outdoors.

The Granite Creek Trail in Prescott, Arizona, is a hidden treasure. It offers a unique urban hiking experience with easy access, beautiful views, and places to eat. It's ideal for locals and visitors looking for a peaceful city escape. Don't miss it on your Prescott trip.

Watson Lake and Other Lakes Near Prescott

Prescott, Arizona, is surrounded by beautiful lakes perfect for outdoor fun. These lakes offer peaceful fishing spots and inviting swimming areas. They are great for those who love nature and adventure.

Goldwater Lake

Goldwater Lake is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. It has shady picnic areas, a playground for kids, and a easy walking path. The lake is full of trout, making it a top spot for fishing for all skill levels.

Willow Lake

Willow Lake is known for its stunning rocks and calm waters. It's perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water activities. You can also swim and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Lynx Lake

Lynx Lake is in the Prescott National Forest and is a hub for outdoor fun. You can hike, bike, camp, fish, and boat here. The lake is full of bass and catfish, drawing anglers from everywhere.

Prescott also has lakes like Thumb Butte Lake, Granite Basin Lake, and Spring Valley Lake. Each lake has its own special charm and activities.

Prescott's lakes are great all year round. You can enjoy spring hikes, see wildflowers, or have fun in the summer. In winter, you can take peaceful walks. No matter what you like, there's something for everyone near Watson Lake Prescott.

Prescott, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Prescott, Arizona, is a charming town in the heart of the state. It has many attractions and activities for visitors. The town mixes its Wild West history with modern charm.

The Courthouse Plaza is a key spot in downtown Prescott. It's a historic building from 1916 and one of Arizona's oldest public buildings. It was named one of the Ten Great Public Spaces in 2008. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful grounds, the Yavapai County Courthouse, and the town's lively events.

For a taste of Prescott's Wild West, visit Whiskey Row. This area was once home to over 40 saloons and gambling halls. Now, you can visit the Palace Saloon, Arizona's oldest frontier saloon, from 1877.

The Sharlot Hall Museum is great for history buffs. It covers 4 acres and has historic buildings like the Fremont House and the Bashford House. The museum lets you explore Prescott's rich history.

Prescott's Antique Row is perfect for those who love unique finds. Shops like Prescott Downtown Antiques and A Step in Time Antiques & Collectibles offer antiques and collectibles. It's a place to discover special items.

The Granite Creek Trail is ideal for outdoor lovers. It's a 2.6-mile trail by the river, close to town. You can take a relaxing walk or go for a hike.

Prescott is surrounded by beautiful lakes like Goldwater Lake, Willow Lake, Lynx Lake, and Watson Lake. These lakes offer many outdoor activities.

Prescott, Arizona, is a top destination for its charm, history, and variety of activities. It has something for everyone, from historic sites to outdoor adventures and unique shops.

Jerome: A Historic Mining Town

Jerome, Arizona, is just a 35-mile drive northeast from Prescott. It's a chance to go back in time and see the history of this special place. Built on Cleopatra Hill, Jerome was a big mining center. It made over a billion dollars from gold, copper, silver, and zinc back when it was booming.

In its heyday, Jerome had about 15,000 people. That made it the fourth-largest city in Arizona in the 1920s. Now, it's a lively arts community. It has many galleries, shops, and restaurants that honor its history.

Walking through Jerome, you'll see old buildings turned into unique places. You can find everything from boutiques to museums. The Jerome Grand Hotel, Spook Hall, and the old Douglas Mansion are just a few of the sights you'll see in this historic mining town.

For a deeper dive, check out one of Jerome's seven wineries or eight tasting rooms on the Verde Valley Wine Trail. Or, if you're up for it, explore the underground railroads and tunnels under the town.

If you love history, art, or just want a unique Prescott day trip, Jerome, Arizona is a place you can't miss. It's full of history and life, waiting to be explored.

Local Businesses and Attractions

Prescott is more than just top attractions. It's full of local businesses and unique spots. You can find everything from independent bookstores to cozy cafes. These places show off the town's heart and character.

Purple Cat Bookstore

The Purple Cat Bookstore is a favorite spot for book lovers. It has a friendly vibe and a wide selection of used books. You can browse through shelves, find hidden treasures, and talk books with the staff.

Method Coffee Shop

Method Coffee Shop is perfect for a caffeine boost and tasty treats. They offer specialty coffee drinks and a variety of pastries and snacks. It's a cozy place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Mortimer Farms

Mortimer Farms is a short drive from Prescott and offers a country feel. You can visit the farm store, pick your own fruits and veggies, and enjoy family-friendly events. It's a great place to experience the local flavors and culture.

Jamie's Waffle Express

Jamie's Waffle Express in Prescott Valley is great for breakfast or brunch. They serve fresh waffles, omelets, and more. It's a cozy spot with friendly service, loved by both locals and visitors.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

Prescott, Arizona, is a top spot for outdoor lovers, with many adventure options. It's famous for its amazing rock climbing spots like the Granite Dells and Groom Creek Bouldering Area. Outdoor adventures Prescott attract those who want to try their skills on the rocks.

But there's more than just rock climbing Prescott. The city has museums and cultural spots that highlight its history and art. Places like the Phippen Museum and the Museum of Indigenous People show off Prescott's past and present.

Rock Climbing

Prescott has rocks for climbers of all levels. The Granite Dells are a top spot for rock climbing Prescott, with huge granite boulders and stunning views. The Groom Creek Bouldering Area and Granite Basin are also great for climbers looking for a challenge.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Prescott's history and culture shine at its museums and cultural spots. The Phippen Museum celebrates local art with works by famous Western artists. The Museum of Indigenous People dives deep into the traditions of native peoples here. And the Embry Riddle Library has a huge collection of handmade model airplanes, showing the area's aviation history.

Conclusion

Prescott, Arizona is a place full of Prescott Arizona attractions and Prescott Arizona activities. You can visit the historic Courthouse Plaza or feel the Wild West vibe on Whiskey Row. The Sharlot Hall Museum lets you dive into the town's history.

For outdoor lovers, Prescott has hiking, rock climbing, and water sports. You can also see beautiful spots like Watson Lake and national parks. If you like to take it easy, check out the unique shops on Antique Row.

Planning a day trip or a weekend in Prescott, Arizona? This Prescott Arizona travel guide shows you the best spots. Get ready to experience the historic charm of this town.