Around Town

I can't tell you how many times my one-nighters have voiced regret that they hadn't planned to stay longer.  From a distance, Prescott looks like an interesting town near Sedona or a place to stop on the way to the Grand Canyon.  Once here, visitors find out that this is an Arizona town like none other.  

History:  In 1864 President Abraham Lincoln established Prescott as the territorial capital.  Soon after, the first Federal Troops were posted at Fort Whipple to tame this wildwest town.  The frontier spirit of the Prescott residents may have been best exemplified when a devastating fire destroyed the entire downtown in 1900.  When the fire started, the ornately carved wooden bar at the Palace Saloon on "Whiskey Row" was carried across the street to the Courthouse where drinks were served to the firemen.  History lives on in Prescott and it's obvious to anyone who's interested.  Be sure to visit the Sharlott Hall  Museum for a fascinating look at our old west heritage.

Outdoors:  With 1600 acres of parks and 450 miles of trails in Prescott Nationall Forest, Prescott offers year round, hiking,  biking, birdwatching, and boating and fishing at six lakes.  Golf;  Stoneridge, Antelope Hills and Prescott Country Club boast some Arizona's  most beautiful, affordable, state-of-the-art year round public golf courses.   

Museums:  In addition to the Sharlott Hall Museum, we are also proud of the Phippin Museum (art of the American west), the Smoki Museum (American Indian art and culture), Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary (rescue) and Highland Center for Natural History (in Prescott National Forest). 

Courthouse Plaza:  The old (and still active) courthouse is the heart and soul of Prescott.  The park-like setting that surrounds it is flanked by galeries, unique boutiques, shops, restaurants and historic "Whiskey Row".  Our downtown weekend festivals run from May through December (see "Special Events"), but to experience the true joy of living in Prescott, come midweek during the summer to enjoy the nightly concerts and dances on the Courthouse Plaza lawn. 

Restaurants:  Prescott has many wonderful restaurants that don't take reservations, however, at most of the "fine dining" (special experience) establisments it may be better to have a reservation before your arrive.  I can help you with that or if you choose to make it on your own you may want to mention that you're staying at the Pleasant Street Inn B & B (they may surprise you at dinner or give you a discount).   My favorite restaurants that require a reservation are 129 1/2: An American Jazz Grill, The Rose,  Peacock Dining Room (at the Hassayampa Inn), Murphy's, El Gato Azul (Spanish & Mediterranean) and Esoji (Japanese). 

Special Events:  We have numerous festivals, shows, concerts and tours throughout the year.  During the summer months ther's something going on almost every night.  To find out what's happening, you can go online at the Prescott Chamber of Commerce website or email me and I'll send you a calendar of events brochure.