Prescott was Arizona's first territorial capital. This bustling community is at the very geographic center of Arizona - and is the center of a lot of fun things to do and see. It's also a city of contrasts. On one side, you'll find the elegant Victorian homes. On the other there's Whiskey Row, where 26 saloons once did a booming business (you can still get a drink there). You'll also find museums, horse racing, golf, and hiking. And just over the mountain is Jerome, the liveliest ghost town in the West.
Things to do in Prescott
Heritage Park Zoo
The Heritage Park Zoo is a non-profit rescue and rehabilitation facility that has a collection of over 150 indigenous and exotic animals. Situated on ten acres overlooking scenic Willow Lake, the zoo boasts large, naturally landscaped enclosures for the animals and paths which allow visitors the opportunity to get an up-close and personal view of them. The zoo is open every day and admission prices are very reasonable. The zoo also hosts a number of special events throughout the year. Call 928--778-4242 for more information.
Phippen Art Museum
The Art of the American West. Named for noted Prescott sculptor-painter George Phippen, co-founder and first president of the Cowboy Artists of America. The museum hosts a minimum of 3- major exhibits each year featuring various works from renowned cowboy artists. Every Memorial Day weekend, the Museum also puts on a major art exhibition show and sale in the Courthouse Plaza. This is one not to miss! Call 928-778-1385 for more information.
Prescott National Forest
Offering cool relief from the desert below, the nearly 1.25 million acres of the Prescott National Forest are brimming with outdoor recreation opportunities. The outstanding climate allows year-round opportunities for picnicking, fishing, nature photography, scenic drives, mountain climbing, hiking, and horseback riding and more.
Smoki Museum
Designed to resemble an Indian pueblo, the Smoki Museum was built in 1935 of native stone and wood. The Smoki Museum houses irreplaceable collections of prehistoric and contemporary pottery, prehistoric jewelry and stone artifacts. The museum exhibits also include an outstanding collection of Southwest basketry and kachinas. Among the Museum's many valued collections are artist Kate Cory's numerous photographs, paintings and documents. Call 928-445-1230 for more information.
The Sharlot Hall Museum
The largest museum in the central territory. The complex features the territorial governor's log cabin residence, the beautifully restored Victorian era Bashford home from the 1870s, fine Native American artifacts, and thousands of historic photos. The Museum today explores the rich diversity of regional heritage through festivals, living history events, outdoor theater performances, changing exhibits, publications and research services. Check website for hours of operation. Call 928-445-3122 for more information.