Map Of Downtown Prescott
Introduction
Located in Northern Arizona, the charming city of Prescott is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With a rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, vibrant arts and culture scene, and plenty of outdoor adventures, Prescott has something for everyone. This travel guide will cover all the top attractions and hidden gems in downtown Prescott, along with budget-friendly tips, family-friendly activities, and much more.
Top Attractions
Whiskey Row
One of the most popular attractions in downtown Prescott is Whiskey Row, a historic street lined with saloons, restaurants, and shops. Take a stroll down Whiskey Row to experience the Wild West charm of Prescott.
Sharlot Hall Museum
The Sharlot Hall Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Arizona and the Southwest, with exhibits on Native American art and artifacts, mining, ranching, and much more.
Courthouse Plaza
The Courthouse Plaza is the heart of downtown Prescott, surrounded by beautiful Victorian-era buildings. Take a seat on one of the benches and people-watch, or enjoy one of the many events held on the plaza throughout the year.
Food Scene
Downtown Prescott has a thriving food scene, with a range of restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets. Some of the top spots to check out include:
- Birdcage Saloon: A historic saloon with a great selection of craft beers and pub grub.
- Prescott Brewing Company: A local favorite for craft beer and delicious pub fare.
- Rosa’s Pizzeria: A family-owned pizzeria serving up authentic New York-style pies.
- The Palace Restaurant and Saloon: A historic saloon with live music and a menu of upscale American cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Prescott can be an affordable destination if you know where to look. Here are some budget-friendly tips for visiting downtown Prescott:
- Visit during the off-season (December to February) for lower hotel rates and fewer crowds.
- Take advantage of free activities, such as hiking in the Prescott National Forest or exploring the downtown art galleries.
- Check out the local farmers’ market for fresh produce and handmade crafts.
- Take advantage of happy hour deals at local bars and restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures
Prescott is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor adventures in downtown Prescott include:
- Hiking in the Prescott National Forest
- Kayaking or fishing on Watson Lake
- Mountain biking on the Prescott Circle Trail
- Rock climbing in Granite Dells
Family-Friendly Activities
Prescott has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Some top picks include:
- Visiting the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
- Exploring the Children’s Garden at the Highlands Center for Natural History
- Taking a ride on the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
- Playing mini golf at Freedom Station Family Fun Center
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique experience in downtown Prescott, check out some of these off-the-beaten-path attractions:
- Prescott Ghost Tours: Take a spooky tour of downtown Prescott and learn about the city’s haunted history.
- The Smoki Museum: This museum showcases the art and culture of Native American tribes in the Southwest.
- The Phippen Museum: This museum features Western art and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
Natural Wonders
Prescott is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the Southwest. Don’t miss these natural attractions:
- Granite Dells: These unique rock formations are a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking.
- Watson Lake: This scenic lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
- Thumb Butte: This iconic landmark offers panoramic views of Prescott and the surrounding mountains.
Vibrant Nightlife
Downtown Prescott comes alive at night, with a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues. Some of the top spots for nightlife include:
- The Raven Cafe: This cozy cafe serves up coffee, cocktails, and live music.
- The Palace Restaurant and Saloon: This historic saloon hosts live music and serves up craft cocktails and upscale American cuisine.
- The Point Bar and Lounge: This trendy bar features a rooftop patio and a menu of craft cocktails and small plates.
Local Markets
Prescott has a thriving local market scene, with plenty of opportunities to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Some top picks include:
- The Prescott Farmers Market
- The Prescott Art Market
- The Prescott Antique Show and Vintage Market
Beaches and Mountains
While Prescott isn’t exactly known for its beaches, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Some top picks for beaches and mountains near downtown Prescott include:
- Watson Lake: This scenic lake offers plenty of opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking.
- Thumb Butte: This iconic landmark offers panoramic views of Prescott and the surrounding mountains.
- Granite Dells: These unique rock formations are a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking.
Cultural Immersion
Prescott has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of museums, galleries, and festivals that celebrate the city’s history and art scene. Some top picks include:
- The Sharlot Hall Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Arizona and the Southwest.
- The Smoki Museum: This museum showcases the art and culture of Native American tribes in the Southwest.
- The Prescott Film Festival: This annual festival features independent films from around the world.
Art and Music Scene
Prescott has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a variety of galleries, theaters, and music venues. Some top picks include:
- The Prescott Center for the Arts: This theater hosts a variety of plays, musicals, and other performances throughout the year.
- The Phippen Museum: This museum features Western art and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
- The Raven Cafe: This cozy cafe serves up coffee, cocktails, and live music.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore downtown Prescott is on foot. Here are some walking tours to check out:
- The Historic Downtown Walking Tour: This self-guided tour takes you past some of Prescott’s most iconic landmarks, including Whiskey Row and the Courthouse Plaza.
- The Ghost Walk: This spooky tour takes you through some of Prescott’s most haunted locations.
- The Public Art Walking Tour: This self-guided tour takes you past some of Prescott’s most beautiful public art installations.
Architectural Marvels
Downtown Prescott is home to some stunning examples of Victorian-era architecture. Some top picks for architectural marvels include:
- The Hassayampa Inn: This historic hotel features stunning architecture and a luxurious atmosphere.
- The Elk’s Opera House: This historic theater is a beautiful example of Victorian-era architecture.
- The Prescott Public Library: This beautiful library was built in 1903 and features stunning architecture and design.
Historical Sites
Prescott has a rich history, with plenty of historical sites to explore. Some top picks include:
- The Sharlot Hall Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Arizona and the Southwest.
- The Smoki Museum: This museum showcases the art and culture of Native American tribes in the Southwest.
- The Palace Restaurant and Saloon: This historic saloon has been serving up drinks and food since 1877.
Biking Routes
Prescott is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. Some top picks include:
- The Prescott Circle Trail: This 54-mile trail loops around the city of Prescott and offers stunning views