sMALL tOWN,

BiG FUN!
By yvonne Newman Located about 90 miles north of Phoenix, Prescott has a pioneer heritage that dates back to the mid-1800s. Once the territorial capital of Arizona, the town lost influence when the capital site was moved to Phoenix in 1889. However, replete with meticulously restored Victorian-era homes, Prescott has retained its charm. Plus, the town makes for a wonderful getaway from the sweltering summertime heat, thanks to its mile-high elevation. The heart and soul of Prescott is the stately downtown Courthouse Plaza. This famous spot has been mentioned on the American

Prescott is home to the Worlds Oldest Rodeo

droP iN oN Prescott, oNe of arizoNas coolest commuNities

A historic town like Prescott, which has a population around 40,000, offers a one-of-a-kind experience thats much different from the urban excitement of the Phoenix area. While some may be skeptical of small town fun, theres a lot going on here. you can learn about Prescotts Old West past, sample the tasty cuisine, take part in a festival, soak in the natural beautyand thats just the beginning!
Planning Associations list of 10 Great Public Spaces in the U.S. Quaint shops, galleries and eateries (grab a slice at Bills Pizza or savor a piece of Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie at The Palace Restaurant and Saloon) surround it. You can also visit the Sharlot Hall Museum in the downtown area. Including the restored territorial Governors Mansion built in 1864, it features historic buildings, beautiful gardens and rare documents. Two other museums The Phippen Museum, dedicated to the art of the American West, and The Smoki Museum, built in 1935 to resemble an Indian pueblo are in the general vicinity, too. Prescott is paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Watson Lake is situated four miles north of downtown. Along with bicycle and kayak rentals, this lovely park offers fishing, picnicking and an area for kite flying. You can also hike the trails centered around 7,626-foot Granite Mountain, a scenic area of wilderness with lush pines less than 10 miles from the towns center. Fevstival time in Prescott heats up in May and June. In addition to the Eighth Annual Southwest Indian Arts Festival May 26-27, musicians from across the country will be in town May 29-June 3 for Chaparral MusicFest 2012. Longing for the good ol days? The Folk Arts Fair Village takes place June 2-3. And dont miss when the horses, bulls and clowns arrive as part of the 125th Annual Worlds Oldest Rodeo June 28-July 4. For more information on Prescott, go to visit-prescott.com.

A grand old Victorian home on prescotts Mount Vernon street

Photos courtesy of the City of Prescott Office of Tourism

Watson Lake is one of Prescotts most popular natural attractions

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