DESTINATION

Prescott

Named to honor historian William Hickling Prescott, the town was incorporated in 1883. Because of the surrounding pine forests, wooden structures rather than the typical adobe buildings were built. Fire devastated Prescott in 1900, but determined townsfolk rebuilt and developed a water system utilizing Del Rio Springs.

Surrounded by mountain ranges and nearly encircled by the 1.2-million-acre Prescott National Forest, the mile-high town is now a resort community. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in more than 450 miles of multiuse groomed trails, four lakes and five golf courses. Camping, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, rockhounding and picnicking are popular activities. A robust arts community helps facilitate year-round activities, events and festivals, many of which are held on Prescott's charming, tree-lined Courthouse Plaza.

Visitor Centers

Prescott Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center 117 W. Goodwin St. Prescott, AZ 86303. Phone:(928)445-2000 or (800)266-7534

Self-guiding Tours

Maps of mountain biking areas along with a leaflet outlining a self-guiding walking tour of Prescott's Victorian-era neighborhoods can be obtained at the chamber of commerce and visitor information center.

Shopping

Dillard's and JCPenney anchor the Prescott Gateway Mall, 3250 Gateway Blvd. near SR 69 and Lee Boulevard. Whiskey Row/Courthouse Square, downtown off SR 89 and Cortez Street, offers antique, souvenir and clothes shopping opportunities as well as several eateries.