Things to do in Prescott, Arizona this winter

For many people, winter is their favorite season due to the several activities from skiing through the snowy hills to cold season festivities and indoor activities in Prescott, AZ. In my opinion, three things speak to the city being an interesting destination when it comes to winter activities: number one is mild weather; in winter, the temperature will probably be better than pretty much anywhere else in the US; two, some things are only going on or are more exciting in winter; and three, prices are cheaper to come to Prescott than in peak season (all hotels are, of course, fully operational). There are no skiing, amazing light shows, caviar, or fancy fur shops; instead, Prescott is a place where some of the bigger small-town traditions still apply. It is a small town, roughly the size of a European one, but a town with a proud heritage, numerous activities for young and old, and fortunately prepared for the chilly season.

1. Live Music love in Winter Wonderland at Watson Lake

Although Prescott offers the most beautiful sceneries throughout the year, the scenery in Watson Lake is even more majestic during the winter. It looks cold and fresh and the grey large rocks feel frosty, while the water is calm and mirrors the blue sky. Take pictures; it’s very serene, or so I’ve heard, if the waters freeze you can rent a kayak or go paddle boarding. It is a quiet place for bird and animal watchers.

2. Visit Prescott AZ Downtown’s Christmas Light Display

Prescott is rightfully nicknamed “Arizona’s Christmas City’. With thousands of lights that illuminate the courthouse plaza, downtown is transformed into a Christmas Village. The Christmas lighting ceremony is an annual event designed to switch on the festive lighting to mark the start of the festive season. Sip on a hot chocolate, walk through a plaza at a very slow pace, and feel that Christmas feeling come alive. It illuminates all winter, so you can watch the spectacle to your heart’s content.

3. Go to the Acker Night Music Festival

If you happen to be in town during the early part of December, don’t miss a classic Prescott event called the Acker Night Music Festival. Some local artists are playing in the shops located downtown and people are happy to hear the holiday music. It’s the best way to have fun and explore Prescott together with promos for artists and local merchants.

4. Ice Skating at the Prescott Valley Event Center

Fast on its wheels, particularly for those who like ice skating, you can go to Prescott Valley Event Center or ice skate. If you are familiar with skating or if you are a beginner the facility is just ideal for a winter afternoon or even in the evening. Finally, get some hot cocoa from some of the local cafés and relish the fresh cool breeze during winter.

5. Hiking Trails in Prescott during Winter

With but mild winters, Prescott is the perfect place for winter hiking to the well-worn trails or to new digs at least until the snow begins to fall. Tourist attraction spots include Thumb Butte and the granite mountain featuring scenes of white snow-clad mountains and plants. It is easy to hike, especially during the winter, besides, there is solitude that accompanies the landscape during the winter season.

6. Take a Trip to Goldwater Lake

Goldwater Lake is just 10 miles northwest of Prescott and is one of Arizona’s best places to enjoy winter outdoor activities for the whole family. It has picnic facilities, fishing locations, and hopefully soon, trails to hike through natural parkland. I prefer the winter because the lake is not very crowded, and the scenery is very calm.

7. Guests of the Prescott Resort and Conference Center can appreciate the Gingerbread Village.

The Gingerbread Village is a unique winter feature installed at the Prescott Resort and it is loved by young and old. Every year the resort’s lobby is turned into a winter wonderland with gingerbread houses and other products and decorations. It’s one of the biggest gingerbread village attractions in Texas, and during the winter, thousands of people visit it every year.

8. Take a Historic Home Tour

Prescott has lots of history everywhere anyone looks, but the mansions as seen from November through February are very beautiful. Some of these homes are decorated with lighting and other religious symbols and emblems to make them appear or look like they depict the throwback feel. Self-guided or guided walking tours highlight the important historical landmarks and buildings and the town’s architecture.

9. Skiing is Possible at Arizona Snowbowl

There is not much snowfall in Prescott, however, prescott is close to Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff. Skiing or snowboarding perhaps or maybe try out your hand at snow tubing. Following the day’s snow endeavors, retire to Prescott for dinner and night at any one of the town’s numerous restaurants or B&Bs.

10. Visit the Smoki Museum

For those who want to stay indoors due to the cold weather, Smoki Museum is a great place to visit if you are interested in the Indigenous people of the Southwest. The museum has an extensive exhibit of Native American photographs, paintings, ceramics, and relics that help offer multicultural insight into the area.

Whether it be sporting activities during the winter, powering the holiday spirit, or getting a break from it all and enjoying nature, there is something in Prescott, AZ for everyone! Natural sceneries, festive atmosphere, and friendly feelings all make it the best place to be during this specific season of the year. Therefore, put on your warm clothes, take a walk, and embrace all the opportunities to have a great time in Prescott during this season.