Things To Do
in Prescott

Prescott, Arizona, is a charming city nestled in the Bradshaw Mountains, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. With a vibrant downtown area featuring historic buildings, art galleries, and shops, Prescott combines small-town charm with cultural depth. The city is also famous for its outdoor activities, including hiking and lakeside adventures, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Additionally, Prescott hosts numerous events throughout the year, celebrating everything from local art to cowboy culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Prescott's History
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Sharlot Hall Museum to learn about Prescott's history.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic Courthouse Plaza and take a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, stopping at shops and galleries.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant featuring Southwestern cuisine, and cap off the night with a craft beer at a local brewery.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Have breakfast at your hotel before heading to Watson Lake for kayaking or paddleboarding.

afternoon
:

Take a hike on the Granite Mountain Trail, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

evening
:

Return to downtown Prescott for dinner and attend a live music event at a local venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🏨Hotel Night$100-200
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3.50
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Rich history and vibrant local culture.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Higher prices for accommodation during events.

Places to Visit in Prescott

Visit one of these nice places.

Courthouse Plaza

A historic and picturesque spot with stunning architecture and beautiful landscaping, perfect for capturing the essence of Prescott.

Watson Lake

Known for its striking rock formations and serene waters, this location is ideal for nature and landscape photography.

Granite Mountain

Offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, this spot is a favorite among photographers looking to capture the beauty of Arizona.

Culinary Guide

Food in Prescott

Prescott's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Southwestern flavors and modern cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Prescott Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Green Chile Enchiladas

Corn tortillas filled with cheese and meat, smothered in a savory green chile sauce.

Must-Try!

Sonoran Hot Dogs

A delicious hot dog wrapped in bacon and topped with beans, tomatoes, and jalapeños.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Prescott Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Prescott features a mild climate with warm summers and cool winters. Summers can reach the mid-90s °F (35 °C), while winters typically see temperatures in the 30s °F (0 °C). Rain is minimal, with most precipitation occurring in the summer months. The area enjoys around 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a pleasant destination year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way.

Respect for Nature

Prescott's outdoor culture emphasizes respect for nature; always follow Leave No Trace principles.

Local Events Participation

Engaging in local events and festivals is encouraged, showcasing community spirit.

Safety Guide

Safety

Prescott is generally considered a safe city, with low crime rates compared to national averages. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and secure your belongings. Outdoor enthusiasts should be cautious of wildlife and stay hydrated during hikes.

Tipping in Prescott

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up for bartenders is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm days and cool nights characterize summer, perfect for hiking and enjoying Prescott's lakes.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn foliage create a picturesque setting for outdoor adventures and photography.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall can provide a unique backdrop for winter activities and holiday events.

Nightlife Guide

Prescott at Night

Prescott's nightlife is vibrant and varied, with options including live music venues, pubs, and cocktail bars. The downtown area transforms in the evening, offering a lively atmosphere where locals and visitors gather to socialize. Popular spots include the historic Whiskey Row, where you can enjoy a drink in a rustic setting, and the Prescott Center for the Arts, which often hosts performances.

Hiking in Prescott

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Thumb Butte Trail

A popular trail offering scenic views and a moderate hike, ideal for families and casual hikers.

Granite Basin Lake Trail

This trail leads to a serene lake surrounded by granite formations, perfect for a peaceful hike.

Airports

How to reach Prescott by plane.

Prescott Regional Airport (PRC)

Located about 10 miles from downtown Prescott, this airport offers limited commercial flights and serves as a hub for regional travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Prescott is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area, where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. The city features sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees

Prescott has a significant population of retirees attracted by the mild climate and outdoor lifestyle.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Prescott for its growing job market and quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

The Prescott Badgers are a local high school team that fosters community support and enthusiasm for the sport.

Rodeo

Prescott is known for its annual rodeo events, celebrating cowboy culture and attracting visitors from across the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Prescott is generally manageable, with peak congestion occurring during weekends and events. Public transportation options are limited, but the city is bike-friendly, and many residents utilize bicycles and scooters for short trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Prescott.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants in Prescott offer gluten-free options, making it easy for those with dietary restrictions to find suitable meals.

Vegetarian and Vegan

There are several restaurants that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, ensuring a variety of choices for all diners.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Prescott is provided by several facilities, including Yavapai Regional Medical Center, which offers comprehensive services. There are also various clinics and urgent care centers available. It is advisable to have health insurance, as costs can be high without it.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide