Prescott: An Arizona Gem

Prescott is a destination that transcends the Arizona archetype. No sweltering summers or miles of cactus covered moonscape. The town’s mile-high location in the Grand Canyon State’s central highlands brings four mild seasons, an average annual daytime temperature of about seventy degrees, and over 300 days of sunshine. Just ninety miles north of bustling metro Phoenix, Prescott is nestled comfortably against the Prescott National Forest.

From art to artifacts, Prescott’s history is well documented. Numerous local museums like Sharlot Hall, the Phippen, and Smoki house highly regarded traveling and permanent Territorial Days, Victorian Era, Native Indian, and western art collections.

Back in 1864, Prescott became the first capital of the Arizona Territory. In those days, the town was anchored by the infamous "Whiskey Row" with shady ladies and wild west iconic guests like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. Adding to the cultural experience are over 800 buildings on the National Register of Historic Buildings including the recently restored 500-seat Elks Opera House, which is back to hosting live performances.

Mount Vernon Street characterizes Prescott's numerous Historic Districts. It's one of those dreamy, tree-lined thoroughfares bordered by meticulously restored Victorian homes. A walk or drive along this street is a must.

The downtown plaza is the proverbial heart of Prescott. During the summer months, the elm shrouded venue beats to five nights of free, live entertainment. The plaza also hosts community events, arts, crafts, and car shows—and is a prime location for some of the best people watching around.

The plaza is so special, it's been honored as one of the Top Ten Public Spaces in the United States by the prestigious APA (American Planning Association). Not too shabby for a town of only forty-three thousand.

But what's really catching the attention of the tourist trade these days is Prescott's outdoor recreation menu. With five scenic lakes and a network of more than 450 miles of groomed hiking, biking and horseback riding trails winding through the city and into the adjacent Prescott National Forest, the press has tabbed Prescott as a "Top Outdoor Adventure Town."

Golfers have also discovered Prescott’s long high season. When Phoenix area courses close for over seeding, knowledgeable golfers instinctively migrate north to play Prescott’s green, pristine public and private courses. Follow the link to learn more about golfing in Prescott.

Visitors to Prescott arrive by airplane, shuttle and car. The Prescott Municipal Airport at Ernest A. Love Field is home to regional carrier Great Lakes Airlines, offering daily service to and from Denver and Los Angeles (LAX). View a copy of Great Lakes' daily flight schedule.

Driving to Prescott? Follow these links for directions from Phoenix, Sky Harbor International Airport, Flagstaff and Tucson.

Drive Times by Car to Prescott:

Just ninety miles north of bustling metro Phoenix, downtown Prescott is an idyllic hamlet nestled comfortably within a verdant national forest. "Everybody’s Hometown" has a mix of unbeatable weather, outdoor adventure opportunities, natural beauty, and strong cultural heritage roots drawing increasing numbers of domestic and international travelers.

click here for INTERACTIVE MAP