Discovering Prescott: A Guide to Outdoor Adventures, Cultural Attractions, and Hidden Gems

Prescott, Arizona is a charming city located in Yavapai County, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Bradshaw Mountains and Prescott National Forest. Known as “Everybody’s Home Town,” this picturesque community offers visitors a delightful blend of history and modern amenities. With its mild climate, diverse outdoor activities, cultural attractions and thriving food scene, Prescott is the perfect getaway destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Explore the cultural heritage of Arizona and discover the rich history of the Southwest. From Native American art to Spanish missions, there’s something for everyone. Check out some of the best things to do in Arizona!

The History of Prescott

Prescott has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s when it was one of Arizona’s first territorial capitals. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the Victorian-style Hassayampa Inn or Courthouse Plaza which boasts an impressive granite courthouse that was built in 1916. The town also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year that celebrates its heritage such as Frontier Days or The World’s Oldest Rodeo.

An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Playground

Prescott is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with breathtaking views in every direction. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy miles of scenic trails throughout Prescott National Forest or head over to Granite Dells for some horseback riding through unique rock formations. Kayaking and fishing at Watson Lake are popular activities during summertime while Lynx Lake is great for fishing or swimming on hot days.

A Cultural Haven

Culture vultures will adore all that Prescott has to offer from its vibrant arts scene to museums bursting with history. You can visit Sharlot Hall Museum showcasing early territorial life along with Smoki Museum displaying Native American culture antiques up close while enjoying theater performances at Elks Opera House which still features classic architecture from years gone by.

The Best Food and Drink in Prescott

Prescott is home to a thriving food scene, where you will find farm-to-table cuisine, locally brewed beer, and wine tasting rooms. The Raven Café is a local favorite with its eclectic décor and a menu featuring dishes made from fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Prescott Brewing Company offers an impressive selection of craft beers while Granite Creek Vineyards boasts award-winning wine amidst gorgeous panoramic views.

Discover Hidden Gems in Prescott

There are many hidden gems to discover in Prescott such as taking a scenic drive on Senator Highway to see abandoned mining towns and ghost towns or visiting Goldwater Lake for peaceful picnics or hiking trails. Lynx Lake is another hidden gem that features fishing, boating, or hiking enthusiasts looking to escape the crowds at other popular lakes nearby.

A Destination Worth Visiting

If you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers amazing scenery mixed with cultural offerings and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities, then look no further than Prescott Arizona.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking in the Prescott National Forest

One of the best things to do in Prescott is to go hiking in the beautiful Prescott National Forest. With over 450 miles of trails, you can find a hike that fits your skill level and desired distance.

A popular trail is the Thumb Butte Trail which offers stunning views of Prescott and the surrounding mountains. If you are looking for a more challenging hike, try the Granite Mountain Trail which takes you up to an elevation of 7,646 feet.

Kayaking and Fishing at Watson Lake

Watson Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves water sports. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards at the lake and explore its beautiful coves and rock formations.

If you prefer fishing, Watson Lake is also an excellent spot for catching bass, catfish, and sunfish. The lake is surrounded by scenic trails that are perfect for hiking or mountain biking.

Horseback Riding through the Granite Dells

The Granite Dells are a unique formation of granite boulders that provide an incredible backdrop for horseback riding. You can take guided tours through the dells with local stables like Granite Mountain Stables or M Diamond Ranch.

As you ride through this stunning landscape, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time to when cowboys roamed these hills. The experience is unforgettable!

Cultural Attractions

If you’re interested in learning about the rich history of Arizona, Prescott has a few museums that are definitely worth checking out. The Sharlot Hall Museum is a great place to start. Named after the renowned poet and historian Sharlot M. Hall, this museum houses a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that detail the history of Arizona from prehistoric times up to the present day.

One of the highlights of the museum is its recreated frontier town, which features various buildings and structures that will transport you back in time to Arizona’s early days. You can visit an old schoolhouse, blacksmith’s shop, and even a Victorian mansion.

There are also exhibits on mining, ranching, and Native American life. Another must-visit cultural attraction in Prescott is the Smoki Museum.

This unique museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Native American art and culture in Arizona. You’ll find an impressive collection of pottery, jewelry, textiles, basketry, and other traditional crafts on display here.

The museum also hosts regular events like lectures, musical performances, and art shows throughout the year. If you’re looking for some entertainment while in Prescott, be sure to check out a performance at the historic Elks Opera House.

This beautiful theater has been around since 1905 and has hosted numerous famous performers over the years including John Philip Sousa and Will Rogers. Today it still puts on plays,musicals,and concerts every season so there’s always something exciting happening here!

Food and Drink Scene

Trying locally brewed beer at Prescott Brewing Company

When it comes to beer, there’s no shortage of options in Prescott. But if you’re looking for a true local experience, you won’t want to miss Prescott Brewing Company.

This family-owned brewery has been serving up delicious craft beer since 1994, and their taproom is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a pint (or three). The menu at Prescott Brewing Company is constantly changing, but you can always expect a range of styles and flavors on offer.

Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs or smooth stouts, there’s something for everyone here. And if you’re not sure what to try, the friendly staff are always happy to make recommendations.

Enjoying farm-to-table cuisine at The Raven Café

If you’re in the mood for some delicious food that’s made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, look no further than The Raven Café. This cozy eatery serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, with a menu that’s inspired by Mediterranean and Southwestern flavors.

There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options on offer at The Raven Café, but meat lovers will also find plenty to enjoy here. Some standout dishes include the falafel wrap with hummus and tzatziki sauce (made from scratch), the pork belly sliders with pickled vegetables and spicy mayo, and the quinoa salad with roasted beets and goat cheese.

Sampling wine at Granite Creek Vineyards

Prescott may not be as well-known for wine as some other parts of Arizona (like Sedona or Willcox), but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some great vineyards to explore here. One standout option is Granite Creek Vineyards – a family-owned winery that specializes in Rhône-style wines.

The tasting room at Granite Creek Vineyards is open every day except Tuesday, and offers a cozy and intimate setting to sample their delicious wines. You can try a flight of five different wines for just $10, and if you’re lucky, you might even get to meet the winemakers themselves.

Some of the standout wines here include the Syrah (with notes of blackberry and spice), the Viognier (with hints of peach and apricot), and the Grenache Rosé (perfect for sipping on a hot Arizona day). Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun activity with friends, a visit to Granite Creek Vineyards is definitely worth your time.

Shopping and Entertainment

Antique shops and boutiques in downtown Prescott

One of the most charming aspects of downtown Prescott is its array of unique and eclectic shops. If you’re a fan of vintage finds, be sure to check out Antique Emporium, which boasts over 10,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles.

For handmade jewelry and artisanal gifts, head over to The Beastro or Artifacts. And if you’re looking for a quirky souvenir to take home with you, stop by Bashford Courts Atrium Mall for kitschy trinkets and retro postcards.

Raven Theater: An Independent Gem

If you’re looking for a more offbeat movie-going experience than your typical big-box theater can offer, then Raven Theater is the place for you. This independently owned cinema has been operating since 1914 and boasts three screens showing both new releases and indie films. With comfy seats, affordable prices, and a cozy atmosphere that harkens back to an earlier era of cinema-going, it’s the perfect spot for a date night or solo outing.

The Palace Saloon: Where History Meets Music

For a night out on the town that’s steeped in history as well as live music, The Palace Saloon is not to be missed. This iconic saloon has been in operation since 1877 (!) making it Arizona’s oldest bar.

Inside its historic walls you’ll find live music acts ranging from country western bands to blues performers – all playing on an old-fashioned stage complete with vintage decor. It’s also worth checking out their extensive menu of cocktails (including some signature drinks like the “Whiskey Del Bac Sour”) – but be prepared for some rowdy crowds later in the evening!

Hidden Gems

Taking a scenic drive on Senator Highway to see abandoned mining towns and ghost towns

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, taking a drive on Senator Highway is definitely worth considering. This scenic route spans over 30 miles and takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. Along the way, you’ll be able to explore several abandoned mining towns and ghost towns that offer a glimpse into Arizona’s past.

One of the highlights of this drive is the historic town of Crown King, which was once a booming mining community. Today, it’s mostly deserted, but there are still plenty of remnants from its heyday to explore.

You’ll find old saloons, general stores, and even an old schoolhouse that has been preserved as a museum. If you’re lucky enough to visit during one of their annual festivals or events, like their chili cook-off or halloween parade, you’ll get to experience this town at its liveliest.

Visiting Goldwater Lake for a peaceful picnic or hike

Nestled in the shadow of Granite Mountain, Goldwater Lake is one of Prescott’s best-kept secrets. This peaceful oasis offers something for everyone: hiking trails through lush forests, fishing opportunities in crystal-clear waters, and plenty of picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

If hiking is your thing, there are several trails that wind through the surrounding Prescott National Forest. One popular trail leads up to nearby Spruce Mountain Lookout Tower, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views stretching as far as Sedona on clear days.

For those who prefer water activities over hiking , Goldwater lake has got your back! You can rent boats from rowboats  kayaks  or paddle boats from local vendors if you don’t have your own personal watercrafts.

Exploring Lynx Lake for fishing, boating, or hiking

Located just a few miles east of Prescott, Lynx Lake is another hidden gem that’s worth checking out. This picturesque lake is surrounded by towering pines and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking. The lake is stocked with trout regularly throughout the year, which makes it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

If you don’t have your own gear ,there are stores nearby where you can rent some. For those who prefer to explore by foot rather than by boat or watercrafts , there are several hiking trails around the lake that range from easy to moderate difficulty.

One trail leads up to an overlook where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. If you’re looking for a laid-back day in nature without the crowds that other tourist attractions may draw in , Lynx Lake is perfect pick!

Conclusion

Prescott, Arizona is a hidden gem that should be on everyone’s travel list. From outdoor activities to cultural attractions to a great food and drink scene, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

The city’s natural beauty and historic charm make it a unique destination that stands out from other Arizona hotspots like Phoenix and Sedona. One of the main draws of Prescott is its proximity to the stunning natural landscapes of northern Arizona.

Visitors can hike through the Granite Dells, kayak on Watson Lake, or explore abandoned mining towns along Senator Highway. For those who prefer culture over nature, Prescott has several museums that showcase Arizona’s rich history and Native American heritage.

And let’s not forget about the food – whether you’re in the mood for locally brewed beer or farm-to-table cuisine, Prescott has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Overall, Prescott offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience that combines outdoor adventure with cultural exploration and great food and drink.

So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and discover all this amazing city has to offer!