Summary
Prescott, Arizona, renowned as Arizona’s first territorial capital, was established post the 1863 gold rush and boasts over 500 structures recognized on the National Registry of Historic Places. In Prescott, visitors can explore the tales of Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders, Doc Holliday, and the origins of Arizona’s legendary rodeos. The history of the Yavapai people is also a significant point of interest.
The inscription on this plaque reads:
- PRESCOTT. FOUNDED IN 1864 ON GRANITE CREEK. EARLY SOURCE OF PLACER GOLD. FORMER TERRITORIAL CAPITAL OF ARIZONA. NOW A CENTER FOR RANCHING, MINING, HEALTH, ESPECIALLY ASTHMA RELIEF. LOCATED HERE ON SITE OF OLD FT. WHIPPLE IN WHIPPLE VETERAN’S HOSPITAL. SEAT OF FIRST GOVERNOR’S MANSION, AND ARIZONA PIONEER’S HOME. FRONTIER DAYS, OLDEST RODEO IN WEST, BEGAN HERE.
Within a 2 to 2.5-hour drive from many spots in the Phoenix area, Prescott offers an ideal day trip for families and adults alike. While Prescott continues to embrace its modern charm with amenities like a mall, megaplex theaters, and popular coffee spots, this guide focuses on the historic district—the heart of Prescott, where its rich narrative began.
Get to Downtown Prescott
Upon arrival in downtown Prescott, seek parking near Courthouse Square. Gurley Street is commonly known as the main thoroughfare. Courthouse Square is surrounded by Gurley Street, Montezuma Street (popularly called Whiskey Row), Goodwin, and Cortez. We found the easiest parking option was located roughly a block away in the municipal lot on Cortez, just south of Courthouse Square.
The initial stop should be the Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center for useful maps, brochures, and area information.
A note of convenience: public restrooms are available at the Courthouse’s base, located on the Whiskey Row side, a quick walk from the Chamber of Commerce.
Whiskey Row
Whiskey Row will provide your first delightful impression of Prescott’s historical depths. Over a century ago, this area thrived as a dining and entertainment hub for miners and townsfolk alike, with its liquor being a safer choice than the local water. Brothels from yesteryear occupied the upper levels.
Today, Whiskey Row retains some traditional bars, intermingled with art galleries, ice cream parlors, and unique gift shops, making it a vibrant destination.
Especially on July 4th, during the Frontier Days celebration, Whiskey Row transforms into a bustling location, drawing visitors to the World’s Oldest Rodeo.
Palace Restaurant and Saloon
Make sure to stop by the Palace Restaurant and Saloon situated on Whiskey Row. Famous for its superb burgers, this historic bar has been operational since 1877, making it Arizona’s oldest frontier saloon. Visitors should step into the backroom to view impressive murals, one of which commemorates the filming of Steve McQueen’s “Junior Bonner” at this site.
The original saloon was lost in the Whiskey Row fire of 1900, though the bar itself was preserved and reassembled in 1901.
On a more unfortunate note, in May 2012, the Bird Cage Saloon, a local institution, along with Larry & Hy’s Bare Bones BBQ, succumbed to another fire.
Yavapai County Courthouse
The Yavapai County Courthouse resides at the heart of downtown Prescott’s activities. Take a moment to stroll around the front, where a Rough Rider statue stands proudly.
Courthouse Plaza
During most weekends, Courthouse Plaza buzzes with activity, featuring craft fairs and community events. For an updated list of happenings, consult the City of Prescott event calendar. On our visit, we were met with a lively festival, drawing crowds to the Courthouse steps, where families and couples enjoyed performances amidst the shade of plentiful trees.
Historic District
Explore Prescott’s historic neighborhoods, showcasing beautifully restored Victorian houses and historic hotels. Don’t miss attractions such as the Smoki Museum, Fort Whipple, and Citizens Cemetery.
Sharlot Hall Museum
The Sharlot Hall Museum represents the largest collection of historical artifacts in central Arizona. In 1909, Sharlot Hall was appointed Territorial Historian, making her the first woman to assume such a role in the territory. Her dedication led to the establishment of the museum in 1928, which showcases her extensive collection of significant historical documents.
The museum hosts both permanent and temporary exhibits, along with living history programs, and outdoor performances throughout the year, such as the popular Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering. Additionally, visitors can explore various historic structures on site, including the one-room schoolhouse and the Governor’s Mansion.
More Prescott Attractions & Directions
If your time permits, Prescott offers plenty more attractions. The Smoki Museum highlights Native American art and culture, preserving the legacy of the residents dedicated to understanding these traditions. The Phippen Museum of Western Art awaits as you travel out of town towards Sedona on Highway 89A.
For animal enthusiasts, the Heritage Park Zoo operates as a non-profit focused on conserving indigenous and exotic species.
Lastly, outdoor lovers will appreciate the expansive 1,600 acres of parks and trails in the Prescott region, with Watson Lake providing overnight camping options just a few miles from downtown Prescott.
To reach Prescott, take I-17 North and then proceed on State Route 69. Travelers from the Phoenix area can expect to arrive in Prescott within approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Situated at an elevation of around 5,300 feet, Prescott enjoys cooler temperatures than the Valley of the Sun, transforming into “Arizona’s Christmas City” during the winter months.
One thing is certain: a single visit to Prescott, Arizona, doesn’t suffice to uncover all its treasures.
