Craving a historic, high-country escape with pine-fresh air and small-town charm? I always point you toward Prescott, Arizona! I first wandered into this Bradshaw Mountain gem for a weekend and ended up wishing you were there too. You’ll feel the Old West spirit as soon as you stroll past Victorian storefronts on Whiskey Row. I love how quickly you can swap downtown buzz for granite-dell trails or a quiet lake picnic. Whenever you need four-season fun without desert heat, Prescott delivers.
Best Time to Visit
If you ask me, spring and fall—April to June and September to October—are perfect. I enjoy mild temps that let you hike, paddle, or linger on a sunny patio. You’ll appreciate how the summer stays cooler than Phoenix, yet still warm enough for evening concerts. I’ve even visited in winter when light snow dusts the courthouse square, and you’ll find cozy cafés waiting for you then, too.
How to Get There
- Driving? I hop on AZ-89 or AZ-69, and you’ll reach Prescott in about two hours from Phoenix or 90 minutes from Flagstaff. I promise the mountain views keep you company.
- Flying? I sometimes take a quick hop into Prescott Regional Airport (PRC), though flights are limited. You might fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor instead, then rent a car for the scenic two-hour drive—much easier if you’re carrying gear.
- Prefer shuttles? I’ve used regional buses connecting Prescott to Phoenix, so you can relax while they handle the winding roads for you.
Where to Stay
- Hassayampa Inn – I adore this 1927 landmark. You’ll step into vintage elegance the moment you enter the lobby, and the Courthouse Plaza is a quick walk away.
- Prescott Resort & Conference Center – I book this hilltop spot when I want space, a spa day, and sweeping downtown views that you’ll want to photograph at sunset.
- Hotel St. Michael – You’ll sleep right on Whiskey Row, and I love hearing faint live music drift up from the street. Antique touches give you a sense of Prescott’s past.
Top Attractions
Downtown Historic Area - Walk along charming streets and explore local shops on a delightful trip.
Watson Lake - Admire granite boulders and go kayaking during a scenic summer escape.
Sharlot Hall Museum - Discover pioneer history and explore historic buildings on an educational retirement visit.
Lynx Lake Recreation Area - Go fishing and walk wooded trails on a peaceful spring day.
Whiskey Row -
Thumb Butte Trail 33 - Hike uphill paths and see panoramic views during a rewarding weekend outing.
Goldwater Lake - Enjoy lakeside picnics and go paddleboarding during a fun family day.
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary - See rescued animals and explore kid-friendly exhibits on a kids adventure.
Phippen Museum, Prescott - Look at Western art and discover regional artists in this creative trip.
Prescott Frontier Days - World's Oldest Rodeo - Watch live rodeo events and celebrate cowboy traditions on an exciting stuff outing.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)