Prescott AZ is located in the northern-central part of Arizona so the town enjoys a typical four season climate, although winters are known to be rather mild.
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| attractions in Southwest US |
If you’re wondering about the best time to visit the Prescott AZ, spring and fall are great seasons to explore the city, especially if you’re planning on doing outdoors pursuits such as hiking and biking, as the weather is pleasant.
Having said this, spring and fall are the peak-season here so airfare, car rental deals and hotel accommodation is more expensive. If you want to find better hotel prices, airfare, etc; try and book a trip here in early winter (January-February).
June through August is another great time to find better hotel and car rental rates but weather is pretty hot, humid and rainy, with august being the wettest month.
Things to do in Prescott Arizona: Outdoor Activities
Camping
The biggest draw in a vacation to Prescott AZ is that the city is surrounded by Prescott National Forest so you'll be able to enjoy a multitude of fun activities such as hiking and picnicking as well as camping.
Having said this, if you are traveling with your RV, Willow Lake Park is a good place to camp as it has camping facilities with hook-ups for RV’s.
Fishing
Two of the best places for fishing nearby Prescott AZ are Groom Creek stream and Willow Creek Reservoir, both located within 6 miles of Prescott’s center.
Groom Creek is home to a larger variety of fish such as small-mouth bass and yellow perch but Willow Creek Reservoir has easier fishing access and it is less busy.
Climbing & Hiking
Granite Dells and Granite Mountain are two of the best locations for enjoying adventurous and challenging activities.
Granite Dells is located around 10 minutes drive, northeast of Prescott’s downtown area, while Granite Mountain is located within Prescott National Forest, around 50 minutes drive.
My favorite location, though, it’s Granite Mountain because the trails to the top of Granite Mountain feature massive granite boulders and once you reach the cliffs you’ll be able to enjoy bird spotting opportunities.
The actual climb to the summit takes around 90 minutes but the views you’ll get at the end are well worth the hike. Also, the southern cliffs of Granite Mountain are great for rock climbing opportunities
Things to do in Prescott Arizona: Places of Interest
Sharlot Hall Museum
If you are interested in the history of Arizona, a visit to the Sharlot Hall Museum allows you a glimpse into 1800’s Arizona.
The museum is located in beautiful grounds where you’ll find a series of period buildings such as a schoolhouse, log house, etc.
Smoki Museum
The Smoki Museum is located opposite Ken Lindley Park and within walking distance of Sharlot Hall Museum.
The museum is dedicated to the Smoki Native American tribe and it is a great place to learn more about them and Native American culture as a whole.
The museum has many interesting exhibits such as paintings, pottery and weaponry artifacts.
Heritage Park Zoo
Heritage Park Zoo is located nearby Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Campus and it is a fantastic place to spend a lovely afternoon with the family.
The Park has picnic facilities and small sanctuary-type zoo where kids will be able to pet the animals.
Things to do in Prescott Arizona: Nightlife & Entertainment
Between north Montezuma Street and south Montezuma Street, you will find plenty of pubs, bars and restaurants such as Bird Cage Saloon, Coyote Joes and Sundance S Place where you can enjoy a nice night out.
Prescott Brewing Pub, located on West Gurley, is one of the most popular places to hang out in Prescott AZ. Here, you can grab a drink and one of its famed Buffalo Burgers and great selection of brews.
If you love gambling, the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe operates a couple of casinos worth checking out, with more than 400 slot machines.
Things to do in Prescott Arizona: Shopping & Dining
Prescott Shopping Center is the largest mall in the city and it is home to many popular retailers, restaurants, as well as a food court and cinema.
For souvenir shopping, the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe reservation is another great place where you can enjoy some gift shopping and buy some things like the popular Indian Baskets.
Things to do in Prescott Arizona: Events & Festivals
Western Art Show and Sale
The Western Art Show and Sale is held at the Phippen Museum every year on Memorial Day weekend. If you love western art, the event features local art from artists in the area and you’ll be able to purchase some fine art.
Sharlot Hall Museum Events
The Sharlot museum is another great place to catch fun events. The museum features all year around events such as the Folk Music Festival in October, the Prescott Indian Art Market in July and the Folk Arts Fair in June.
Prescott’s Mile Hi Square & Round Dance Festival
The Mile Hi Fest is held in late April at Prescott Activity Center and it is a popular event that features fun dance workshops.
See. Places to visit in Flagstaff AZ
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