Prescott, Arizona Museums & Art Galleries
Prescott, Arizona blends Old West history with a thriving arts scene, making it a perfect destination for travelers who appreciate both cultural heritage and creative expression. From historic museums preserving pioneer and Native American stories to vibrant art galleries showcasing local and regional talent, Prescott offers an inspiring mix of experiences for visitors year-round.
Museums in Prescott
Sharlot Hall Museum
Best for: Arizona history lovers & families
Address: 415 W Gurley St, Prescott, AZ
Hours: Mon–Sat 10 AM–5 PM, Sun 12–4 PM
Admission: Adults $15, Seniors $12, Youth (13–17) $5, Kids 12 & under free
The Sharlot Hall Museum is Prescott’s crown jewel for history buffs. Founded by Sharlot M. Hall, a pioneering writer and rancher, the museum spans four acres and features authentic territorial buildings, including the 1864 Governor’s Mansion. Exhibits explore pioneer life, Arizona’s territorial politics, and regional artifacts. Seasonal events like the Folk Arts Fair and Frontier Christmas bring history to life.
Smoki Museum of American Indian Art & Culture
Best for: Native American history & Southwestern art
Address: 147 N Arizona Ave, Prescott, AZ
Hours: Wed–Sat 10 AM–4 PM, Sun 1–4 PM
Admission: Adults $10, Seniors $7, Students $5, Children under 12 free
The Smoki Museum preserves and celebrates the art and culture of Indigenous peoples of the Southwest, including the Hopi, Navajo, Yavapai, and Apache tribes. Visitors can view pottery, basketry, beadwork, and ceremonial regalia, along with rotating exhibits and educational programs. The Annual Navajo Rug & Indian Art Auction is a major cultural highlight.
Phippen Museum of Western Art
Best for: Western fine art & cowboy culture
Address: 4701 N Highway 89, Prescott, AZ
Hours: Tues–Sat 10 AM–4 PM, Sun 1–4 PM
Admission: Adults $12, Students $5, Children under 12 free
The Phippen Museum showcases the spirit of the American West through paintings, sculptures, and photography of cowboy life, ranching traditions, and rugged landscapes. It hosts the Phippen Western Art Show & Sale every Memorial Day weekend, one of the largest outdoor Western art festivals in the Southwest.
Art Galleries in Prescott
While Prescott’s museums preserve the past, its galleries shine a spotlight on contemporary creativity. Many are within walking distance of Courthouse Plaza and feature works from regional artists.
- Mountain Artists Guild Gallery – A nonprofit co-op showcasing paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and photography, plus classes and workshops.
- Van Gogh’s Ear Gallery – An eclectic gallery featuring contemporary Southwestern art, jewelry, glasswork, and sculptures.
- Arts Prescott Cooperative Gallery – Artist-owned and operated, offering handmade art in mediums from fiber and wood to mixed media.
- Ian Russell Gallery of Fine Art – Known for Western-inspired paintings, metalwork, and wood carvings, plus a rooftop sculpture garden.
Prescott Art Walks & Annual Events
- Prescott 4th Friday Art Walk – Self-guided art tour on the fourth Friday each month. Features downtown galleries, live music, artist meet-and-greets, and refreshments.
- Phippen Western Art Show & Sale – Memorial Day Weekend – Outdoor Western art festival at Courthouse Plaza with fine art, demonstrations, and meet-the-artist opportunities.
- Sharlot Hall Folk Arts Fair – June – Living history celebration with traditional crafts, folk music, and hands-on activities.
- Navajo Rug & Indian Art Auction – September – Hosted by the Smoki Museum, featuring authentic Navajo rugs, pottery, and jewelry from Native artists and traders.
- Acker Night – December – Part art walk, part holiday celebration. Downtown businesses host live music, benefiting youth music programs.
Tips for Exploring Prescott’s Museums & Galleries
- Plan a walking route: The Sharlot Hall and Smoki Museums are near downtown galleries, making them easy to visit in one day.
- Check event calendars: Museums and galleries often host rotating exhibits and special events.
- Support local artists: Prescott’s art scene thrives when visitors purchase original works and handmade gifts.
- Best photo ops: The Phippen Museum’s bronze sculptures and Van Gogh’s Ear Gallery’s colorful façade are favorites.
Art & Museum Events in Prescott
General Admission to Verde Valley Archaeology Center
Family-Friendly
