Top 10 Hidden Gems to Explore in Prescott, Arizona

Discover the top 10 hidden gems in Prescott, Arizona! Explore secret trails, historic landmarks, and breathtaking spots perfect for adventure seekers.

Prescott, Arizona, is known for its charming downtown, beautiful lakes, and rich history. But beyond its famous attractions, the city hides unique spots waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, these hidden gems offer unforgettable experiences.

Goldwater Lake, nestled within the Prescott National Forest, is a serene and scenic getaway for nature lovers. Unlike the more well-known Watson Lake, Goldwater Lake offers a quieter, more secluded experience, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor recreation.

Things to Do at Goldwater Lake:

✅ Kayaking & Canoeing – Enjoy a peaceful paddle on the calm waters (no motorized boats allowed).
✅ Fishing – The lake is stocked with trout, catfish, and sunfish, making it a great spot for anglers.
✅ Hiking & Trails – Several scenic trails surround the lake, offering beautiful forested views.
✅ Picnicking – Covered picnic areas with tables and grills make it an ideal spot for family outings.
✅ Wildlife Viewing – Deer, birds, and other wildlife are commonly spotted in the area.
✅ Playground – There’s a small playground for children near the picnic areas.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: Goldwater Lake Rd, Prescott, AZ
🎟️ Entry Fee: $3 per vehicle
🕒 Hours: 6 AM – 10 PM (subject to seasonal changes)
🚗 Parking: Available near the lake
🐶 Pets: Allowed on a leash

Why Visit Goldwater Lake?

Goldwater Lake is a hidden gem in Prescott, offering a peaceful retreat from the busier attractions in the area. Whether you’re looking to kayak, fish, hike, or simply unwind by the water, this lake is a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors.

2. Thumb Butte – A Scenic Hiking Spot

Thumb Butte is one of Prescott’s most iconic natural landmarks and a must-visit hiking destination. Offering stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, this moderate hike is perfect for sunrise or sunset enthusiasts looking for breathtaking vistas.

Why Hike Thumb Butte?

🌄 360-Degree Views – Enjoy sweeping views of Prescott, the Bradshaw Mountains, and the Prescott National Forest.
🥾 Moderate Difficulty – The 2.5-mile loop is well-maintained but includes a steep incline (especially if you go clockwise).
🌲 Beautiful Scenery – Hike through a mix of ponderosa pines, manzanita shrubs, and rocky outcrops.
🦅 Wildlife Spotting – Look out for deer, birds of prey, and other local wildlife.
🌅 Sunrise & Sunset Hotspot – The summit offers one of the best spots in Prescott to watch the sun rise or set.

Trail Information:

📍 Location: Thumb Butte Rd, Prescott, AZ
🥾 Hike Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
⏳ Time to Complete: ~1.5 hours
📏 Elevation Gain: ~640 feet
⚠️ Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections, but paved in parts)
🚗 Parking: Available at the trailhead ($5 fee unless you have a Prescott National Forest pass)
🐕 Dogs: Allowed but must be on a leash

Best Tips for Hiking Thumb Butte:

✅ Go Early or Late – The trail can get hot in summer, so early morning or evening hikes are best.
✅ Take Plenty of Water – There’s little shade on the steep sections.
✅ Choose Your Route Wisely – The clockwise route is steeper, while the counterclockwise direction offers a more gradual ascent.
✅ Watch for Wildlife – This area is home to deer, lizards, and even the occasional black bear sighting.
✅ Winter Caution – Snow and ice can make the trail slippery in colder months.

Nearby Attractions:

• Prescott National Forest – Offers more trails and scenic drives.
• Downtown Prescott – Just a short drive away for post-hike dining and shopping.
• Goldwater Lake – Another great outdoor spot nearby.

Thumb Butte is a must-hike in Prescott, whether you’re a local looking for a quick outdoor escape or a visitor wanting to experience one of Arizona’s best hidden hiking gems.

3. The Palace Restaurant & Saloon – A Historic Treasure

The Palace Restaurant & Saloon is more than just a bar—it’s a historic landmark and one of the oldest saloons in Arizona, dating back to 1877. Located on Whiskey Row in downtown Prescott, this legendary establishment has welcomed cowboys, lawmen, and outlaws over the years, keeping the Old West spirit alive.

Why Visit The Palace Saloon?

🏆 Arizona’s Oldest Bar – A step back in time to the days of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday.
🍹 Authentic Old West Atmosphere – Featuring antique wooden bar tops, vintage décor, and staff in period-style outfits.
🔥 Survived Fire & Rebirth – In 1900, a fire destroyed much of Whiskey Row, but patrons carried the iconic hand-carved mahogany bar to safety, and it was later reinstalled.
🎭 Hollywood Fame – The saloon has been featured in movies and TV shows depicting the Wild West.
🎶 Live Entertainment – Enjoy live music, performances, and themed events throughout the year.

What to Eat & Drink at The Palace:

🍽️ Specialties:

• Signature Steaks – Known for their perfectly cooked ribeye, filet mignon, and prime rib.
• Whiskey Cocktails – Featuring a vast selection of bourbons and Old West-inspired drinks.
• Classic Western Cuisine – Try bison burgers, smoked brisket, or mesquite-grilled chicken.
• Gold Rush Burger – A local favorite, topped with crispy bacon and special sauce.

🍻 Drinks to Try:

• Palace Whiskey Sour – A house favorite with a smooth, rich flavor.
• Old West Old Fashioned – A timeless cocktail made with a Prescott twist.
• Arizona Craft Beers – Local brews that pair perfectly with a hearty meal.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: 120 S Montezuma St, Prescott, AZ
⏰ Hours: Open daily (Check for live entertainment nights!)
💰 Price Range: $$ – $$$
🎩 Dress Code: Casual, but Western-themed attire adds to the fun!

Nearby Attractions:

• Whiskey Row – Explore other historic saloons, shops, and restaurants.
• Sharlot Hall Museum – Learn about Arizona’s territorial history.
• Courthouse Plaza – A great place to relax after a meal at The Palace.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just love Old West vibes, The Palace Restaurant & Saloon is a must-visit destination in Prescott!

4. Lynx Creek Ruins – A Glimpse Into Arizona’s Ancient Past

The Lynx Creek Ruins is an archaeological site in the Prescott National Forest, offering a fascinating look at the prehistoric cultures that once inhabited the region. This hidden gem is home to the remnants of a Native American pueblo, believed to have been occupied between AD 1150 and 1300 by the Southern Sinagua people.

Why Visit Lynx Creek Ruins?

🏺 Ancient History – Explore the remains of an ancient pueblo and imagine life centuries ago.
🏜️ Scenic Location – Nestled in the Prescott National Forest, offering breathtaking desert and forest views.
🚶 Easy Hiking – A short, well-marked trail leads to the ruins, making it accessible for all ages.
🦅 Wildlife Spotting – The area is home to hawks, deer, and other desert wildlife.
⛏️ Gold Panning Nearby – Lynx Creek is also known for its gold prospecting history, and panning is still allowed in certain areas.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: Prescott National Forest, near Lynx Creek
🥾 Trail Length: ~0.5 miles (round trip)
⏳ Time to Explore: ~30-45 minutes
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free
🚗 Parking: Limited parking available near the trailhead
🐕 Pets: Allowed on a leash

Best Tips for Visiting:

✅ Go in Spring or Fall – Cooler temperatures make for a more enjoyable experience.
✅ Bring Water & Sunscreen – There’s limited shade along the trail.
✅ Respect the Site – Avoid touching or disturbing the ruins to preserve this historical landmark.
✅ Combine with Other Attractions – Visit nearby Lynx Lake for a picnic, fishing, or kayaking adventure.

Nearby Attractions:

• Lynx Lake – A beautiful recreation area just minutes away.
• Prescott National Forest – Miles of hiking trails and outdoor activities.
• Sharlot Hall Museum – Learn more about Prescott’s history and archaeology.

The Lynx Creek Ruins is a must-visit for history lovers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts looking to explore Arizona’s rich past in a scenic setting.

5. Watson Woods Riparian Preserve – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Nestled along the banks of Granite Creek, Watson Woods Riparian Preserve is a hidden gem in Prescott, Arizona, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers. This 126-acre preserve is one of the last remaining riparian habitats in the area, home to towering cottonwoods, willows, and a thriving ecosystem. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, a scenic walk, or some of the best birdwatching in Arizona, this preserve is a must-visit.

Why Visit Watson Woods Riparian Preserve?

🦜 Top Birdwatching Destination – Spot over 200 species of birds, including great blue herons, woodpeckers, hawks, and hummingbirds.
🌿 Diverse Wildlife – Keep an eye out for beavers, foxes, deer, and a variety of reptiles.
🚶‍♂️ Scenic Nature Trails – Enjoy easy, well-maintained walking paths surrounded by lush riparian forests.
🌊 Unique Riparian Habitat – One of Arizona’s few remaining wetland ecosystems, vital for local wildlife and water conservation.
📸 Perfect for Photography – Capture stunning landscapes, reflections in Granite Creek, and abundant wildlife.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: Near Watson Lake, off Highway 89, Prescott, AZ
🥾 Trail Length: ~2 miles of easy walking paths
⏳ Time to Explore: 1-2 hours
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free
🚗 Parking: Available at Watson Lake Park ($3 per vehicle)
🐕 Dogs: Allowed but must be on a leash

6. Sharlot Hall Museum – A History Buff’s Dream

Step back in time at the Sharlot Hall Museum, a living history museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Arizona’s rich pioneer and territorial past. Located in downtown Prescott, Arizona, this four-acre historic site features exhibits, restored buildings, and artifacts that tell the story of the Old West, Native American cultures, and early Arizona settlers.

Why Visit Sharlot Hall Museum?

🏛 Historic Buildings – Explore several restored structures, including Arizona’s first territorial governor’s mansion (built in 1864).
📜 Fascinating Exhibits – Learn about Arizona’s pioneers, cowboys, miners, and Native American heritage through interactive displays and artifacts.
👗 Living History Events – Experience reenactments, period costumes, and hands-on demonstrations that bring history to life.
📖 Legacy of Sharlot Hall – Discover the inspiring story of Sharlot Hall, a historian, poet, and activist who fought to preserve Arizona’s history.
🎭 Annual Festivals & Events – Attend special events like the Folk Arts Fair, Western Heritage Days, and Prescott Indian Art Market.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: 415 W Gurley St, Prescott, AZ
⏰ Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 4 PM (Closed Mondays)
🎟️ Admission: ~$12 for adults, discounts for seniors, students, and military
🚗 Parking: Free parking available nearby
🐕 Pets: Only service animals allowed

Best Things to See at Sharlot Hall Museum:

✅ Governor’s Mansion – The original log cabin from 1864, where Arizona’s first territorial governor lived.
✅ Native American Artifacts – A collection of pottery, textiles, and tools from Arizona’s indigenous tribes.
✅ Ranch House & Schoolhouse – Explore what life was like for early settlers in Prescott.
✅ Rose Garden – Dedicated to Arizona’s pioneering women, showcasing beautiful seasonal blooms.
✅ Western Expansion Exhibits – Learn about Arizona’s mining boom, ranching era, and statehood journey.

Nearby Attractions:

• Whiskey Row – Visit Prescott’s famous historic saloons and shops.
• Prescott Courthouse Plaza – A great place to relax and enjoy local events.
• Museum of Indigenous People – Explore more about Native American cultures.

Who Should Visit?

📌 History buffs looking to explore Arizona’s territorial days and Western heritage.
📌 Families wanting an educational yet engaging museum experience.
📌 Travelers interested in authentic Old West history and historic landmarks.

Whether you’re a history lover, a curious traveler, or someone looking for unique things to do in Prescott, Sharlot Hall Museum is a must-visit destination that offers a deep dive into Arizona’s rich past.

7. Skull Valley – A Ghost Town Adventure

Tucked away in Yavapai County, Skull Valley, Arizona, is a small, unincorporated community known for its rich Old West history, scenic landscapes, and quiet rural charm. Located about 20 miles southwest of Prescott, this hidden gem is perfect for those looking to escape the city and experience Arizona’s ranching heritage.

Why Visit Skull Valley, Arizona?

🏜️ Historic Western Town – Experience an authentic slice of Arizona’s frontier past, with remnants of old ranches, farms, and general stores.
🚗 Scenic Drive – The Skull Valley Loop is a beautiful, peaceful drive through rolling hills, high desert landscapes, and historic sites.
🚂 Santa Fe Railroad History – Once a key stop for the Santa Fe, Prescott & Phoenix Railway, Skull Valley played an important role in Arizona’s railroad expansion.
🐎 Ranching & Farming Heritage – Visit working ranches, local farms, and charming roadside markets selling fresh produce and artisan goods.
🦅 Wildlife & Outdoor Beauty – Spot eagles, hawks, deer, and other native wildlife in this pristine desert-meets-forest landscape.

Things to Do in Skull Valley:

✅ Visit Skull Valley Depot & General Store – This historic railroad depot and shop is a must-see for visitors interested in Arizona’s Old West history.
✅ Explore Skull Valley Cemetery – A fascinating historic cemetery with gravestones dating back to the 1800s.
✅ Take a Scenic Drive – Enjoy breathtaking views on the Skull Valley Loop, connecting to Iron Springs Road and Williamson Valley Road.
✅ Picnic at Skull Valley Recreation Area – A great stop for a relaxing outdoor lunch with views of Arizona’s high desert.
✅ Stop by Local Ranches & Farms – Some offer seasonal tours, fresh produce, and artisan products.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: Yavapai County, ~20 miles southwest of Prescott
🚗 Best Way to Visit: By car (Scenic drive from Prescott takes ~30 minutes)
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free (Some attractions may have separate fees)
⏳ Best Time to Visit: Spring & Fall for mild weather and best scenery

Nearby Attractions:

• Prescott National Forest – Great for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures.
• Iron Springs Road – A picturesque drive through rugged Arizona terrain.
• Peavine Trail – A historic railroad-turned-hiking trail near Prescott.

Who Should Visit Skull Valley?

📌 History lovers interested in Arizona’s pioneer and railroad history.
📌 Nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful, scenic drive or wildlife spotting.
📌 Road trippers exploring hidden gems in Arizona.

If you’re looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path escape near Prescott, Skull Valley is a must-visit destination filled with history, natural beauty, and small-town charm.

8. Hidden Tunnel at Courthouse Plaza

Beneath the historic Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza in downtown Prescott, Arizona, lies a hidden tunnel shrouded in mystery and local legends. While its exact purpose remains uncertain, many believe it was used during Prohibition, for bootlegging, secret meetings, and possibly even outlaw hideouts. This underground passageway is one of Prescott’s most intriguing hidden gems, sparking curiosity among history buffs and adventure seekers.

Theories Behind the Hidden Tunnel

🔍 Bootlegging Route – Some locals claim the tunnel was used to smuggle alcohol during Prohibition (1920-1933), connecting local saloons, speakeasies, and businesses.
🏛️ Escape Route or Utility Passage? – Historians suggest it might have been a service tunnel for courthouse operations, offering a discreet passage for officials.
👻 Haunted Legends – With Prescott’s Wild West past, ghost hunters speculate the tunnel could be linked to underground crime, secret burials, or paranormal activity.
🔗 Connection to Whiskey Row – Some believe it extended to Whiskey Row, a famous strip of historic saloons and outlaw hotspots.

How to See the Hidden Tunnel at Courthouse Plaza

📍 Location: Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza, Prescott, AZ
🔦 Access: The entrance is sealed off, but remnants of the tunnel can reportedly be seen near basement areas of surrounding buildings.
📅 Guided Tours: Some local history tours share stories about the hidden tunnels, Prohibition-era smuggling, and Prescott’s underground past.

Other Must-See Historic Spots Nearby:

• Whiskey Row – Explore historic saloons, some of which may have been connected to the tunnel.
• The Palace Restaurant & Saloon – One of Arizona’s oldest bars, rumored to have secret underground connections.
• Sharlot Hall Museum – Learn about Prescott’s frontier history, Prohibition, and Old West culture.
• Hassayampa Inn – A historic hotel with its own ghostly legends and hidden stories.

Who Would Enjoy Exploring This Mystery?

📌 History lovers interested in Arizona’s underground past and Prohibition-era secrets.
📌 Paranormal enthusiasts intrigued by ghost stories and hidden tunnels.
📌 Local explorers searching for Prescott’s off-the-beaten-path mysteries.

While the hidden tunnel beneath Courthouse Plaza remains largely unexplored, it continues to fuel speculation and mystery, making it one of Prescott’s most intriguing urban legends.

9. Granite Dells – A Photographer’s Dream

The Granite Dells is one of Prescott, Arizona’s most stunning natural landmarks, featuring massive, weathered granite rock formations that are over 1.4 billion years old. These rugged cliffs and boulders, shaped by wind and water, create a unique landscape perfect for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into hiking, rock climbing, photography, or kayaking, the Granite Dells is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Why Visit the Granite Dells?

⛰️ Spectacular Rock Formations – Marvel at the otherworldly, rounded granite boulders, sculpted over millions of years.
🥾 Epic Hiking Trails – Explore trails like the Peavine Trail and Watson Lake Loop, offering stunning views and moderate difficulty.
🛶 Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Paddle through the scenic waterways of Watson Lake and Willow Lake, surrounded by towering rock formations.
🧗 Rock Climbing & Bouldering – Climbing enthusiasts will find exciting routes throughout the Dells.
📸 Incredible Photography Opportunities – Capture jaw-dropping sunset views and reflections in the lakes.

Best Things to Do at the Granite Dells

✅ Hike the Peavine Trail – A scenic 6-mile rail-trail along Watson Lake, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
✅ Explore Watson Lake Park – Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching with breathtaking rock formations in the background.
✅ Rock Climbing Adventures – Test your skills on granite cliffs and boulders, with routes for all experience levels.
✅ Take a Scenic Drive – Enjoy the Granite Dells Parkway for beautiful views without hiking.
✅ Visit Willow Lake – A less crowded alternative to Watson Lake, great for boating and peaceful nature walks.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: Off Hwy 89, near Watson Lake and Willow Lake, Prescott, AZ
🚗 Parking: Available at Watson Lake Park ($3 per vehicle) and Peavine Trailhead
⏳ Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for the most comfortable weather
🐕 Pets: Allowed on a leash

Nearby Attractions:

• Watson Woods Riparian Preserve – A wildlife sanctuary perfect for birdwatching.
• Prescott National Forest – Miles of trails, camping, and off-road adventures.
• Downtown Prescott & Whiskey Row – A great place to unwind after exploring the Dells.

Who Should Visit the Granite Dells?

📌 Outdoor enthusiasts looking for hiking, kayaking, and climbing adventures.
📌 Nature lovers & photographers wanting to capture Arizona’s most unique rock formations.
📌 Families & casual travelers searching for scenic views and fun outdoor activities.

The Granite Dells is a true Arizona hidden gem, offering awe-inspiring landscapes, adventure opportunities, and natural beauty that will leave you speechless.

10. Hassayampa River Preserve – A Desert Oasis

Nestled near Wickenburg, Arizona, the Hassayampa River Preserve is a lush desert oasis unlike any other in the region. This protected riparian area, managed by The Nature Conservancy, offers diverse wildlife, scenic hiking trails, and year-round flowing water, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers.

Why Visit Hassayampa River Preserve?

🌿 A Rare Riparian Habitat – One of Arizona’s few remaining free-flowing rivers, creating a lush green corridor in the desert.
🦅 Top Birdwatching Spot – Home to over 280 species of birds, including great horned owls, vermilion flycatchers, and hummingbirds.
🥾 Scenic Hiking Trails – Explore secluded nature paths, like the River Ramble Trail and Lyke’s Lookout Trail, with beautiful views.
🦊 Wildlife Encounters – Spot javelinas, bobcats, deer, and even rare reptiles in their natural habitat.
📸 Photography Paradise – Capture stunning landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Best Things to Do at Hassayampa River Preserve

✅ Hike the Palm Lake Loop – A short, scenic trail winding through cottonwood and willow trees.
✅ Walk Along the River Ramble Trail – Follow the shaded, peaceful riverside path, perfect for birdwatching.
✅ Visit the Nature Center – Learn about local ecology, conservation efforts, and Arizona’s riparian zones.
✅ Join a Guided Birdwatching Tour – Offered seasonally, great for beginners and experienced birders.
✅ Explore Lyke’s Lookout Trail – A moderate hike leading to elevated views of the preserve and surrounding desert.

Visitor Information:

📍 Location: 49614 US-60, Wickenburg, AZ 85390
⏰ Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 8 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed Monday & Tuesday)
🎟️ Entry Fee: ~$5 per person, kids under 12 free
🚗 Parking: Available at the entrance
🐕 Pets: Not allowed (to protect wildlife)

Nearby Attractions:

• Vulture City Ghost Town – A preserved Old West mining town near Wickenburg.
• Desert Caballeros Western Museum – Learn about Arizona’s cowboy and frontier history.
• Wickenburg’s Historic Downtown – Explore shops, art galleries, and Old West landmarks.

Who Should Visit Hassayampa River Preserve?

📌 Birdwatchers & nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful wildlife sanctuary.
📌 Hikers & outdoor lovers searching for scenic, easy-to-moderate trails in Arizona.
📌 Photographers & travelers wanting to experience a rare desert oasis.

The Hassayampa River Preserve is a true hidden gem in Arizona, offering a unique mix of desert beauty, lush greenery, and incredible wildlife—a must-visit for those looking to explore Arizona’s natural wonders.