Prescott, Arizona

Prescott is an all-American classic hometown. The town fills a mile-high basin surrounded by a mountain-rimmed ponderosa pine forest high above the Arizona desert. After gold was discovered in these highlands before the Civil War, Arizona became a territory with Prescott as its first capital and a prosperous trading center. It is still a lively link to the Old West.

Most of Prescott’s rich past is reassuringly maintained, like the classic tree-shaded plaza in the heart of town. Impressive public buildings and monuments, fine museums, carefully restored hotels, plus shops featuring Southwestern arts and crafts, and restaurants are all within an easy stroll. Whiskey Row, one of the most authentic lineups of historic saloons in the West, is as frisky as ever. So is the world’s oldest rodeo which has been celebrated here annually since 1888. In the surrounding forests, hiking, camping, and rock climbing are enjoyed, along with boating and fishing in several picturesque little reservoirs. 

For more information, check with the local Chamber of Commerce