When you think of Arizona, what pops into your mind?
We’ve always associated Arizona with warm desert weather, the Grand Canyon, and Saguaro cacti… until now. A couple of weeks ago we road tripped to the small city of Prescott, Arizona, where we saw a new side of the shining Copper State.
Located in Yavapai County, Prescott is an easy hour and a half drive north of Phoenix and an hour and a half west of Sedona. Set at an elevation of 5,200, Prescott is surrounded by Ponderosa pine forests and boasts an average temperature of a cool 70 degrees. We were welcomed by crisp mountain air and rolling meadows, and we knew almost immediately that Prescott is a special place.
THE “TOWN”
The city of Prescott (pronounced “Presskit”) couldn’t be more charming. I (Alli) kept remarking that Prescott reminded me of a Hallmark Christmas movie, with a quaint town plaza and bustling main street. Prescott was once Arizona’s territorial capitol, so it’s full of historical landmarks and Wild West History - and it’s also home to the ”World’s Oldest Rodeo” (Which occurs around the 4th of July Weekend, and you better believe it’s added to our bucket list!)
There are historic saloons, local boutiques and shops, renowned restaurants (more on the food scene later), museums, and more lining the downtown. We spent an entire day shopping, eating, and leisurely exploring downtown Prescott, and we had a blast! Some must-visit spots include the Jersey Lilly Saloon for a drink at the bar, The Treat Center for an old-fashioned sweet treat, the Wild Iris Coffeehouse for an afternoon pick-me-up, and the famous Hassayampa Inn to warm up by their cozy fire.
Loving the Christmas vibes at Jersey Lilly Saloon.
Cheers to Jersey Lilly!
Check out that old cash register :)
Alli will always find the best candy shops
We love Wild Iris!
THE CULINARY SCENE
It’s impossible to go hungry in Prescott, with cute cafes and farm-to-table restaurants at nearly every turn. And if you’ve been following us for awhile, you know that good food is one of the first things we look for in a new destination! The Palace Restaurant and Saloon is arguably one of the most iconic in the area, as it dates back to 1877 - and it’s even been voted one of the 10 Most Historic Bars in America by USA Today! Don’t leave without trying the Palace Pulled Pork Sliders!
FARM Provisions serves fresh and organic fare that rotates seasonally, and utilizes local Arizona farmers and ranchers. It’s the perfect place to go for a healthy and hearty lunch or dinner, and they have extensive Vegan and Gluten Free menus too! (Alli had the Farm Vegan Tacos, and they were delicious!)
The Barley Hound is Prescott’s beloved gastropub, serving old-school classics like fried green tomatoes and flavorful burgers with a unique and creative twist. Their cocktails are undoubtedly some of the best in the area, our favorite being the Old Fashioned!
And no trip to Prescott is complete without breakfast at The Local, a true local favorite. Everything is made from scratch with local ingredients, and they serve breakfast all day long. Bobby still raves about their Broken Egg Sammie!
If only the walls could talk at the Palace Saloon!
Delicious burger at the Palace Saloon!
Incredible lunch at FARM Provisions!
Date night at The Barley Hound!
Morning feast at The Local!
STAY AT THE GRAND HIGHLAND HOTEL
We had the privilege of staying at the Grand Highland Hotel, a boutique gem on Prescott’s famed Whiskey Row. This 115 year old building is full of Prescott history, and the rooms incorporate old time charm with modern flair. We were obsessed! One of our favorite touches is that breakfast is included, and you can have it delivered to your room in the morning!
With a newly remodeled ground floor, the Grand Highland is also an incredible wedding venue with a stunning courtyard. Most importantly, the Grand Highland sits on Whiskey Row which is right on the town plaza. It’s the perfect location to explore downtown!
Excited to check in at the Grand Highland Hotel!
Cozy room at the Grand Highland!
Our favorite part of the Grand Highland was the daily breakfast deliveries!
WATSON LAKE
Just four miles away from downtown Prescott is Watson Lake, a stunning reservoir that ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. The crystal clear water and the staggering rock formations make for one epic backdrop, and an ideal spot to hike, picnic, and explore! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, and the weather permits, we suggest renting a kayak to explore. That’s on our list for next time!
Look at the view!
Hiking around Watson Lake!
ARIZONA’S CHRISTMAS CITY
Probably our favorite fact is that Prescott is known for being “Arizona’s Christmas City” - and that’s reason enough for us to want to return! From the end of November through mid January there are light tours, parades, live music and performances, cultural experiences, free events, and the Whiskey Row Boot Drop on New Year’s Eve… and due to Prescott’s high elevation, chances are you’ll see some snowfall! It doesn’t get more magical than that! Go to visit-prescott.com/christmas for more information!
We completely fell for Prescott, and we think you will too. Next time you’re planning a roadtrip, or you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path kind of getaway, we highly suggest it. We can’t wait to return - preferably at Christmastime! Oh, and don’t forget your cowboy boots!!