Location: Prescott
Top Things to do in Prescott
The 10 Best Things to do in Prescott, Arizona (AZ)
Nestled in the conifer forests of the Bradshaw Mountains, Prescott is a historic city boasting much in the way of adventure and culture. Golfers flock to its six pristine courses, while outdoors enthusiasts find exciting hiking trails, secluded picnicking spots and adventure on the waters of its five lakes. Discover the history of the Old West in the city's museums, historic railways and the Pioneer Home Cemetery, where "Big Nose Kate" Elder, wife of Doc Holiday, found her final resting place.
Restaurants in Prescott
1. Sharlot Hall Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 621 reviews
An educational and cultural center featuring the historical, social and natural aspects of Arizona, with emphasis on the Central Highlands... a heritage and historical site with 11 exhibit buildings (five historical), a research center for collections and conservation of artifacts, and a year 'round calendar of rotating and permanent exhibits, and related educational and cultural programs. Open 362 days a year, and presenting the area's culture from the Pleistocene Epoch (14,000 years ago) to the present.
Reviewed By 866TaylorB - Chicago, United States
The Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, includes the first Territorial Governor's residence and offices, a 1930s ranch house, a Victorian house, a log cabin, a replica of the first public schoolhouse in the Arizona Territory, a transportation building and vehicle collection, an exhibit building, an 1870s kitchen garden, a pioneer herb garden, a rose garden and a gazebo. Located at 415 West Gurley Street in Prescott, Arizona, two blocks west of the Courthouse Plaza and Whiskey Row, its centerpiece is the log house that was constructed in the summer of 1864 to serve as the home and office of the first Governor of the Arizona Territory, John Goodwin. It is the oldest building associated with Arizona Territory still standing at its original location. The town of Prescott did not exist at the time but President Abraham Lincoln wanted the capital of the newly established Arizona Territory to be located far from Confederate sympathizers in Tucson. The discovery of gold in the Bradshaw Mountains made it strategic to establish the territorial capital near that wealth. So the town of Prescott was born, named for historian William Hickling Prescott. And the Territorial Governor's new house was built. To preserve the history of the building, a woman named Sharlot Hall began restoring the house and offices in 1927 and the Sharlot Hall Museum was opened in 1928 with the log house situated at the center of the campus.
2. Whiskey Row
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 704 reviews
A full block of historic bars and saloons where some of America's famous cowboys and outlaws drank.
Reviewed By 751karenb - Queen Creek, United States
We had a wonderful time strolling and bar hopping Whiskey Row. We visited Matt's Saloon, Jersey Lilly's, Bird Cage, The Palace, and the Public House. The bartenders were friendly and made tasty drinks. Be warned, most establishments are CASH ONLY so bring $$ with you.
3. Downtown Historic Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,069 reviews
Many of Prescott's buildings that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places are located downtown.
Reviewed By FritziesPop - Watford City, United States
From the unique stories of the storefront facades along Whiskey Row to the intriguing & vibrant Courthouse Square, downtown Prescott is a sure-fire hit with young & old alike (especially those of legal drinking age!).
4. Heritage Park Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 294 reviews
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is a non-profit wildlife sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation and protection of native and exotic animals. Located in scenic Prescott, Arizona, the sanctuary provides a source of recreation, education and entertainment for all ages. With the mission of "Conservation through Education," Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary provides a unique and up-close experience with animals visitors may see nowhere else. Animals at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary all have a story to tell and lesson to teach. We currently house more than 200 animals on our grounds - among them a Bengal Tiger, two Black Bears, two Clouded Leopard siblings, Mexican Gray Wolves, Bobcats, Lynx, Lemurs, various reptiles, and one of the largest tarantula displays in the Southwest.
Reviewed By Extraordinary530095 - Corpus Christi, United States
This gem close to town was an unexpected pleasure. We arrived just in time for the mountain lion feeding. Beautiful animal. The spokesman for the tortoises was extremely knowledgeable. All attractions were up close and personal. It is a small rescue and rehab sanctuary but very worth the time seeing. Would definitely go again.
5. Lynx Lake Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 500 reviews
Lynx Lake is one of the most popular recreation areas in central Arizona. Mild weather, the cool ponderosa pine forest, a serene 55-acre lake, trout fishing, boating, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, archaeological sites, and bird watching attract visitors from throughout Arizona.
Reviewed By captjrk - Prescott Valley, United States
This a great place to visit for kayaking, fishing, hiking and picnicing. The south end has covered picnic tables, grilles and a boat launch. In the summer there are canoe, paddleboat, and kayak rentals at the north end. Nice to walk arould the lake - the west side is paved and the east side is not, but still not a difficult trail. Between he north entrance and Highway 69 there is "Lynx Lake Ruin". It's an easy, peaceful 3/4 mile hike back to he ruin.
6. Watson Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 991 reviews
Reviewed By 755caml - Prescott, United States
Of the magical lakes within a stones throw of Prescott CBD this may be the Jewel in the Crown. Wide range of recreational facilities, have a rugby match on the expansive lawn area, picnic at the lake, play Frisbee Golf, kayak, fish and paddleboard all with a majestic background of the granite rock formations.
7. Prescott Peavine National Recreation Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 136 reviews
Reviewed By BuckeyeBulletAZ - Sun City, United States
Very easy hike/walk on the east side of Watson Lake. The more adventurous may deviate from the old railroad bed walk on the rocks nearer the lake. Parking is a very modest $3.00
8. Goldwater Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 184 reviews
Reviewed By Rihsurf - Goodyear, United States
This area is a paddle boarders or kayakers dream. Easy access, many little coves to explore, fish, or just enjoy the scenery.
9. Prescott Frontier Days, World's Oldest Rodeo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 130 reviews
10. Thumb Butte Trail 33
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 173 reviews
Reviewed By 49thstatetraveler - Anchorage, United States
This is a quick hike that pays off with a great view across Prescott. Take the trail counter clockwise (go right at the start) for a gradual uphill climb. Steeper climb if you go the other way. Coming up the backside when you get almost to the top you suddenly get the view. Worth the walk up. Maybe an hour round trip if you walk fast and don’t stop to enjoy the views.
