Visiting Prescott with children is an journey into Arizona’s previous. Designated the capital by President Abraham Lincoln again when Arizona was nonetheless only a territory, town embraces its Wild West historical past. For those who’re picturing a desert panorama with a lot of prickly saguaro cactus, dusty tumbleweeds, and record-breaking warmth, nonetheless, assume once more. Households from right now’s state capital, Phoenix, flock to Prescott for a dose of greenery, to flee the summer time swelter, or to play in winter snow. Right here’s a take a look at 20 enjoyable issues to do in Prescott with youngsters of all ages.
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1. Courthouse Sq.
Prescott’s charming Courthouse Sq. appears like one thing out of a traditional film or TV present. Suppose Hill Valley from Again to the Future or Mayberry from The Andy Griffith Present. With its grassy garden and mature elm timber, it’s a favourite gathering place for locals and guests alike. Carry a Frisbee or ball for some playtime with the youngsters, or just stroll the grounds.
The centerpiece is the spectacular Yavapai County Courthouse, which celebrated its a centesimal birthday in 2016 and continues to listen to circumstances right now. Remember to take a look at Prescott’s colourful historic timeline, imprinted in cement in entrance of the courthouse.
Surrounding the sq., you’ll discover a number of retailers promoting southwestern artwork, clothes, and conventional souvenirs. Many of those buildings have been superbly restored, contributing to town’s wealthy architectural historical past. In actual fact, over 800 buildings in Prescott are listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations.
2. Whiskey Row
Prescott was as soon as a rough-and-tumble city on the western frontier. The city’s crimson gentle district and saloons stretched alongside what’s known as Whiskey Row. After a hearth in 1900, lots of the buildings have been rebuilt and now home vigorous saloons, eating places, and boutiques. At this time, you may nonetheless order whiskey drinks right here, however the ambiance is family-friendly. This historic downtown district runs north and south on Montezuma St. between Gurley and Goodwin St. throughout from the courthouse.
3. The Palace Restaurant & Saloon
Step again in time at The Palace Restaurant & Saloon, a Prescott icon positioned within the coronary heart of downtown. Initially opened in 1877, it’s the oldest frontier saloon in Arizona. Children will love pushing by means of the old style swinging doorways and absorbing the classic Western decor. Anticipate hearty cowboy fare like steaks, ribs, and burgers, plus a youngsters’s menu for little buckaroos.
This institution burned down in Prescott’s notorious fireplace of 1900, together with the remainder of Whiskey Row. In accordance with native legend, the townspeople grabbed their drinks and the ornately carved Brunswick Bar so they might proceed ingesting throughout the road as they watched the flames devour the buildings. At this time, the restored saloon affords a enjoyable and flavorful style of the Previous West for the entire household. And, adults aged 21+ can nonetheless stomach as much as the unique Brunswick Bar.
4. Deal with Middle on Courthouse Sq.
Situated on Whiskey Row in Prescott Metropolis, the Deal with Middle appeals to all ages. Pop in to peruse colourful candies and scoop up handmade ice cream cones. Ask without cost samples of their signature flavored popcorns, together with garlic, cinnamon, prickly pear, and jalapeño cheddar. You possibly can even purchase a scorpion-filled lollipop as a wierd memento of your time in Prescott with children.
5. Sharlot Corridor Museum
Named for Prescott pioneer Sharlot M. Corridor, this open-air museum is a compound of historic buildings positioned a brief stroll from Courthouse Sq..
At Sharlot Corridor Museum, you may stroll by means of the outdated Governor’s Mansion. This log cabin was in-built 1864 for Arizona’s first territorial governor, earlier than Arizona grew to become a U.S. state. It’s known as a “mansion” largely in distinction to the tents and shanty homes that surrounded it on the time. Corridor moved into the home in 1927 and opened it as a museum the next 12 months.
Additionally on-site is Fremont Home, constructed simply 13 years later for Arizona’s fifth territorial governor. It’s a critical improve from the unique, with Victorian touches and curious finds like horsehair-covered chairs and artwork produced from human hair (sure, actually).
Households may also discover a rose backyard, Yavapai-Prescott tribal artifacts, a duplicate of an old-time schoolhouse, and different historic buildings. My husband’s favourite was the Transportation Constructing, which showcases buggies, wagons, and classic vehicles from a bygone period.
Scavenger hunts can be found for youths, with a small prize within the Museum Retailer upon completion. This positively saved my youngsters engaged and entertained throughout our go to.
6. Highlands Middle for Pure Historical past
Take time to understand Prescott’s pure habitats throughout your loved ones trip. The realm boasts over 450 climbing trails, two of which start on the Highlands Middle for Pure Historical past. Stretch-Pebble Loop is a brief, partaking stroll that’s enjoyable for younger youngsters. In the meantime, the 1.5-mile Highlands Path affords sweeping views of the valley and is successful with older children.
When my son was 9, he wasn’t often a lot of a hiker—however throughout our nature stroll right here, he saved saying issues like, “I find it irresistible right here. I really feel actually pleased.” That warmed this hike-loving mama’s coronary heart.
James Household Discovery Gardens
Admission to the Highland Middle’s trails is free, or you may pay a number of {dollars} per particular person to discover the James Household Discovery Gardens. (Youngsters below age 5 are free.) All ages can take pleasure in demonstration gardens, interactive studying stations, climbing areas, a forest play space, and guided walks.
7. Watson Lake
I extremely advocate planning a day journey to Watson Lake Park throughout your go to to Prescott with youngsters. The huge granite dells and boulders across the lake give it an otherworldly really feel. Hire kayaks or canoes from Prescott Outdoor and paddle your means round this stunning physique of water.
Choose to remain on shore? You’ll discover some simple climbing trails right here, too. Pack your individual lunch to eat in one of many picnic areas beside this small lake.
Birders ought to preserve their eyes peeled for waterfowl and shorebirds at Watson Lake. You would possibly even spot bald eagles and nice herons.
Watson Lake is a no-wake lake, making it a superb place to drop a line and catch some fish. The lake is stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and rainbow trout. Simply make sure you deliver an Arizona fishing license if you happen to plan to fish.
8. Lynx Lake
For those who’d moderately paddle on a lake surrounded by tall pine timber and inexperienced galore, then head to Lynx Lake Recreation Middle. You possibly can lease canoes, pedal boats, and kayaks on web site.
For an informal lunch with a superb view, seize one of many picnic tables at Lynx Lake Cafe. The menu options typical American burgers, salads, and sandwiches. You can even order German fare, like bratwurst or pork schnitzel, with conventional German potato salad. End with a slice of apple strudel or German chocolate cake for dessert.
9. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
Anticipate to see largely desert animals on the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary. The compact structure makes this non-profit zoo simple to discover inside a few hours or so.
Search for coyotes, javelinas, mountain lions, and bobcats. There are a number of unique animals that hail from additional away, too, like a Bengal tiger and a troupe of wallabies. My household even acquired an opportunity to the touch some constrictor snakes throughout our go to to the Reptile Home.
Your entire household will love the bear feeding presentation. Zookeepers place meals like apples, avocados, fish, and pineapples all through the enclosure. The black bears enjoyment of discovering and devouring the hidden snacks.
10. In The Recreation Prescott Valley
After exploring nature and studying about Prescott’s historical past, deal with youngsters to a visit to the Within the Recreation Prescott Valley. You possibly can play by means of a Wild West-themed miniature golf course, rack up tickets within the arcade, and dive into laser tag battles at this play middle. Youthful youngsters love climbing by means of the play maze and bouncing on the Frog Hopper experience, whereas older children can check their abilities on the rock-climbing wall or strive mini bowling. For somewhat additional thrill, there’s even axe-throwing in a protected, supervised setting.
There’s additionally a restaurant that serves wings, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and extra. Mother and pop may also respect wine, beer, and cocktails served onsite.
11. Prescott Frontier Days
Prescott is the proud house of the World’s Oldest Rodeo. This Wild West competitors and its surrounding festivities happen annually over Independence Day weekend in the course of the standard Prescott Frontier Days. One of many highlights is the Rodeo Parade, which marches by means of downtown Prescott round Courthouse Plaza with over 100 entries, colourful floats, and Western aptitude.
Since 1888, cowboys and cowgirls have been entertaining crowds with steer wrestling, bareback driving, tie-down roping, girls’s breakaway roping, saddle bronc driving, staff roping, girls’s barrel racing, and bull driving.
12. Arizona’s Christmas Metropolis
Prescott has proclaimed itself “Arizona’s Christmas Metropolis.” Town is a holly jolly place to rejoice the winter holidays.
The Vacation Lights Parade kicks off the Christmas season on the Saturday following Thanksgiving annually. Marching individuals and pets, plus glowing floats, wind their means by means of Prescott. The parade concludes when Santa’s float arrives on the Courthouse for the annual tree lighting.
Sharlot Corridor Museum additionally hosts a Frontier Christmas Open Home with sizzling cider and do-it-yourself cookies served beside a roaring fireplace. There’s additionally the World’s Largest Gingerbread Village, the place you may view 100+ gingerbread homes.
Native retailers and eating places be a part of the merriment with twinkling shows, seasonal treats, and prolonged hours. From carolers on the sq. to horse-drawn carriage rides, Arizona’s Christmas Metropolis lives as much as its festive nickname.
13. Horseback Using
Don your cowboy boots and hit the paths on horseback to absorb the pure great thing about the Prescott space. Mosey by means of Ponderosa pines whereas taking in views of the San Francisco Peaks within the distance. Path rides with Yavapai Path Adventures can be found for riders of all ability ranges, ages 5+.
14. Museum of Indigenous Individuals
Previously often called the Smoki Museum, the Museum of Indigenous Individuals offers guests perception into the historical past and tradition of Arizona’s Native People. View everlasting reveals of art work, pottery, instruments, baskets, and different indigenous artifacts.
Academic lectures, artwork exhibits, and native dance displays are additionally held onsite. A small store sells art work and jewellery made by native peoples.
15. Prescott Festivals
Prescott prides itself on plentiful festivals and particular occasions held all year long. In the course of the summer time months, Courthouse Sq. bustles with dwell music concert events on weekends. Farmer’s markets characteristic contemporary produce, handmade items, and ready meals on Saturdays in summer time, too. Additionally, search for arts & craft exhibits held all year long. See Prescott’s calendar of occasions for dates and to study extra happenings.
16. Mortimer Farms
Though technically not in Prescott, Mortimer Farms makes an entertaining pitstop in your option to or from Phoenix. It’s positioned in Dewey, about half-hour from Prescott.
The farm options a formidable nation retailer. Store in your fill of fruit jams, pickled veggies, do-it-yourself sandwiches, baked items, and colourful contemporary produce.
12 months-round, younger youngsters will get a kick out of Farm Park for a small entrance payment. This play space features a petting zoo, tractor tire playground, and different unplugged play.
Search for seasonal occasions on the farm, too. Beginning in July every summer time, Mortimer’s affords you-pick strawberries. In October, their Pumpkin Pageant options an enormous pumpkin patch plus a 15-acre corn maze. There are additionally particular choices for Easter and Christmas.
17. The Puzzle Store & Puzzle Rides Prescott
Households can hop aboard a golf cart and clear up themed puzzles whereas exploring downtown Prescott with Puzzle Rides. It’s an interactive option to study native historical past and landmarks whereas working collectively as a staff. Earlier than or after your experience, cease into The Puzzle Store to browse mind teasers, video games, and distinctive presents that reach the enjoyable past the tour. E book your Wild West Heist Puzzle Recreation with Viator earlier than your Prescott household trip.
18. Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium
Situated at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical College, the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium affords immersive exhibits that deliver house, science, and astronomy to life. It’s an awesome indoor possibility for curious children and teenagers, with rotating applications that discover every thing from constellations to black holes. The dome theater makes studying really feel like an journey.
19. Goldwater Lake
Tucked into the pines only a few miles south of downtown Prescott, Goldwater Lake affords a peaceable escape with a extra secluded, forested really feel. This small, scenic lake is right for households trying to picnic, paddle, or take pleasure in a leisurely stroll alongside shaded climbing trails. You’ll discover a playground, sand volleyball courtroom, and loads of picnic tables.
Non-motorized boats are welcome, and the calm waters are good for kayaking or canoeing. It’s additionally an awesome spot to solid a line for trout or chill out below tall Ponderosa pines. Simply don’t neglect your AZ fishing license!
20. Park Collective
This indoor play house in Prescott Valley affords a vibrant mixture of actions for youths, together with climbing buildings, inventive play zones, and group occasions. Park Collective is a nice possibility for wet days or whenever you want a break from outside adventures in Prescott with children.
The place to Keep in Prescott with Children
Residence Inn by Marriott Prescott
Would you like additional house and an included breakfast throughout your keep in Prescott with children? After all, you do! Residence Inn by Marriott Prescott additionally boasts inviting outside areas with a swimming pool, sizzling tub, and fireplace pits. This lodge tends to draw enterprise vacationers in the course of the workweek, leaving weekends obtainable for households. It’s about an 8-minute drive to downtown Prescott.
Residence Inn Prescott affords three foremost room sorts: studio suites, one-bedroom suites, and two-bedroom suites. Every suite features a absolutely outfitted kitchen with a full-size fridge, stovetop, microwave, and dishwasher—good for prepping household meals or storing native treats.
For those who can afford it, then do as my household did and keep within the two-bedroom suite. It features a front room with a pull-out couch. Every of the 2 bedrooms is outfitted with a queen-sized mattress.
Springhill Suites Prescott
For households who wish to keep nearer to the motion, select Residence Inn’s sister property, Springhill Suites Prescott, providing easy accessibility to downtown retailers, eating places, and seasonal occasions. Select a studio or one-bedroom suite with separate dwelling areas, plus perks like an indoor pool, sizzling tub, and complimentary breakfast.
Hassayampa Inn
Ever since visiting Prescott as a baby, I’ve dreamed of staying on the historic Hassayampa Inn. Inbuilt 1927, this superbly restored boutique lodge affords cozy rooms stuffed with classic appeal. Whereas it’s well-suited for a romantic escape, it is also a enjoyable selection for households with teenagers or older children prepared to e book a couple of room.
Even if you happen to’re not staying in a single day, step inside to admire the grand, old style foyer whereas exploring town of Prescott. And don’t miss an opportunity to dine on the elegant Peacock Eating Room. There’s no youngsters’s menu, however children are welcome and the expertise is price reserving upfront.
VRBO Properties in Prescott
For much more house to unfold out, check out VRBO properties in Prescott. My household has loved quite a lot of trip rental homes and condos in Prescott Valley over time. Whether or not you wish to keep within the coronary heart of downtown Prescott or in a comfortable cabin surrounded by wilderness and outside recreation choices, you’re certain to discover a trip house that meets your wants.
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Save These Prescott Household Actions
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Which of those household actions in Prescott appeals most to you? Share your feedback or questions under!
A Word from Colleen: Thanks to Residence Inn by Marriott Prescott and Go to Prescott for partially internet hosting certainly one of my household’s a number of visits to Prescott. I didn’t obtain any financial compensation associated to this story. All opinions are mine, as at all times.